(Giles' apartment. Giles is installing a new cordless phone.)

BUFFY: Nice phone.

GILES: Yes. Fabulous technology. See, if anyone has information I need to know, they can, uh, simply tell me about it. Through this ingenious speaking tube. I'm very excited.

BUFFY: I am sorry, Giles. I really thought I told you about Riley and the Initiative. And I know that it doesn't help. Look, I promise it won't happen again. I will tell you everything.

GILES: Buffy, I don't want to ask you to betray any confidences, and I certainly don't want to interfere--

BUFFY: Uh-oh, you have "but-face."

(Giles gives her a look, so she elaborates)

BUFFY: You look like you're gonna say "but."

GILES: (a beat) But . . . this, um, Initiative, I'm-I'm a little concerned. Ethan's not exactly a reliable source but, um . . . I'm not sure that he's wrong about them.

BUFFY: I'm not dating the Initiative. I'm dating Riley. He's a good guy.

GILES: And I-I believe that. But he's part of something we-we don't really understand.

BUFFY: You sure you're not just saying this because you don't like Riley's boss?

GILES: (as if offended) No! No. I'm not saying that at all. (considers) Though I do . . . hate her quite a lot. But I want you to have your personal life, but . . . keep your eyes open. Make sure you know what you're getting into.

• Buffy & Giles
• the Initiative

written by: Jane Espenson; Transcribed by Joseph B. Full transcript at:
http://www.studiesinwords.de/68anewman.html