Author: Dayna

E-mail: honzr@midstate.tds.net

Rating: PG-13

Disclaimer: Characters don't belong to me. They belong to Joss Whedon and Mutant Enemy. No copyright infringement intended.

Distribution: TPWFLD; otherwise please ask.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Buffy and Giles were at the library training in silence. They hadn't said a word to each other since their argument earlier. The training wasn't going well since Buffy's mind wasn't on her practice. Giles finally threw his arms up in frustration.

"That's enough. You're obviously not interested in working on this, so we may as well call it a night."

"Gee, Giles, sorry I have other things to think about. Like the fact that my boyfriend has reverted to his killer self, killed my computer teacher, is now terrorizing my friends, and is trying to kill me."

"Which is why you should concentrate on your training. Then you'll be ready when you must face Angelus."

"You mean so I can kill him."

Giles looked closely at his Slayer. He knew she was having a hard time dealing with everything that had happened, but she needed to use her strength now more then ever.

"Buffy, Angelus must be destroyed before he can hurt anyone else. You know that."

"Knowing it doesn't make it any easier. I love him, Giles. Can you understand that?"

"Of course I understand. But, you have to remember that the Angel you loved is gone. He's never coming back."

"Thanks for pointing that out, Giles. God, I wish there were no such things as vampires. Then there would be no need for a Slayer, and I could have a normal life!"

Buffy ran out of the library in tears, leaving a stunned Giles behind. He let her go, knowing she needed this time alone.

Buffy sat in her room, looking at a picture of Xander, Willow, and herself. They were the only real friends she had, but it wasn't the same. She couldn't help but remember her life before she'd found out her 'destiny'. Buffy drifted to sleep, dreaming of having a normal life.

{Be careful what you wish for Slayer, it might not turn out the way you dreamed.}

Buffy had no way of knowing that her wish had been heard, and granted. But, her dreams may turn out to be nightmares.

End Prologue

Buffy woke up feeling relaxed. A good night's sleep had improved her mood, and she decided to get to school early. She really wanted to apologize to Giles, then catch up with Willow. Buffy felt as though she hadn't been spending enough time with her best friend.

As Buffy entered the library, she was surprised that none of the gang was there yet. She walked over to the table and heard Giles back in the stacks.

"Hey, Giles!"

Buffy watched as Giles approached her. She was shocked by his appearance.

"Where's the tweed?"

"Excuse me?" Giles looked at Buffy in annoyance.

"What's with the outfit?"

Buffy had never seen Giles dressed as he was today. Dressed in black jeans and a dress shirt, he didn't look like her stuffy Watcher. Even his glasses were gone.

"I'm sure I have no idea what you're talking about. Now, if you're here to do research or look for a book, then go ahead. Otherwise, I suggest you find some where else to wait for class."

"Look Giles, I know I was a pain yesterday, but aren't you taking this a bit far?"

"Young lady, I don't know what you're babbling about, but please show some respect when addressing me. My name is Mr. Giles."

Buffy was confused. Giles wasn't acting like himself. Something was definately wrong here. <I need to find Willow and Xander, then we can figure out why Giles is wigging out.> As Buffy turned to leave, she saw a group of students enter. She watched as a couple of them headed to the computer,while the others went into the stacks. <What's this? Students actually using the library?> Then her mouth dropped open as a student called Giles for help on the computer. Buffy watched as her technologically impaired Watcher sat at the computer, and let his fingers fly over the keyboard, fixing the problem in a matter of seconds. <I need to find the others, this isn't right.> Buffy rushed out to find her friends.

Buffy spotted Willow and Cordelia standing at the lockers. She rushed up to them, not noticing the strange looks they gave her.

"Guys, I'm glad I found you. We have a problem. I was just in the library and Giles isn't acting like himself. I mean, my God, he was actually wearing jeans!"

Willow and Cordelia exchanged a glance, but didn't answer.

"Hello? Why are you two looking at me like that?"

"Just trying to figure out why you would think we'd care how the librarian was acting. And, why you think you should just come up and start talking to us." Cordelia said.

"Very cute, Cordy, but this is serious. Something's wrong and we need to find out what it is."

"Cordy? Interesting nickname, never heard you called that one before." Willow said between laughing.

"Oh, very funny, Willow. Like I care what some nobody calls me."

Buffy looked back and forth between her friends. They were talking about her like she wasn't even there. When they turned to leave, Buffy grabbed Willow by the arm.

"Hey, do you mind?"

"Willow, what are you doing? I know we haven't spent much time together lately, but ignoring me isn't going to help. Besides, you've been spending a lot of time with Oz lately anyway."

"Oz?"

Buffy continued holding on to Willow's arm. She didn't she the look that passed between the two girls, nor did she care when Cordelia left.

"Look, I don't know what you think you're doing, but I don't appreciate it. Please let go of my arm."

"Not until you listen to me."

"Why should I? I don't even know you."

"What? Will, you're my best friend."

"Considering I've only seen you a couple times in the hallway, I don't really think so."

Buffy looked at her friend. She saw no hint of recognition in Willow's eyes. <What the hell is going on? My best friend doesn't know who I am?> Buffy saw tears forming in Willow's eyes, and knew she had unconciously tightened her grip, but before she could let go, her arm was pulled away from behind.

"Let go of her!"

Buffy turned at the sound of Xander's voice, but was stunned by what she saw. Not only was Xander standing there looking furious, but he wasn't alone. Next to him, looking equally furious, was Jesse. Buffy stared back and forth between the people who were her friends, and not one of them recognized her.

"I don't know what you're damage is, but if you ever touch our friend again, you'll be sorry." Jesse yelled at her.

"This isn't happening. Something's wrong. You guys are my best friends, why don't you recognize me? And you, you're dead, you were killed." Buffy said pointing to Jesse.

"See, I told you she was psycho." Cordelia said as she walked over to Willow. She turned Willow's arm over, and gasped in shock, "Jesse, Xander, look what she did to Willow."

The guys walked over to see Willow's arm. Xander lightly touched her wrist and Willow winced.

"I think it's sprained." Willow whispered.

"We'll take you to the nurse. Then we'll let Principal Snyder handle her." Xander said, pointing an accusing finger at Buffy.

"I'd hate to be in your shoes when her boyfriend finds out about this. You better make sure you never run into him." Cordelia said coolly.

They walked away, leaving Buffy standing shocked. She had hurt her best friend. What was going on?

{Your wish has been granted Slayer. Welcome to your normal life.}

End Part 1

Buffy stayed clear of Willow and the others the rest of the day. Snyder had called her into his office, and given her a warning. If she touched another student again, she would be suspended. He wouldn't put up with bullies in his school. <Well, at least something hasn't changed.>

Buffy couldn't understand why this was happening. Everything about her life was different. Then another thought hit her. If her friends didn't remember her, did they remember about vampires? Would she have to protect them from a danger they didn't remember? This would be the time she'd normally go to Giles for the answers. Now she'd have to try to find them on her own.

After school, Buffy saw Willow and the others standing out on the steps. Her gaze rested on Willow's wrapped wrist. She hadn't meant to hurt Willow, she'd just wanted her to listen. As Buffy walked closer, she was surprised to see Jesse and Cordelia standing with their arms around each other. <Wait a minute, even when he was alive, she couldn't stand him. This is getting weirder and weirder.> Buffy held back as Xander and Jesse prepared to leave. She couldn't help but listen to their conversation.

"Xander's going to give me a ride to work, but I'll see you at the Bronze later." Jesse said as he pulled Cordelia into his kiss.

"And you better not be late again, buster." Cordelia responded playfully.

"I won't. Come on, lover boy. Don't want to keep your girl waiting."

Xander didn't respond immediately, he was busy checking out a girl that walked past in a short skirt. A smack on his shoulder got his attention.

"Better be careful, Harris. I would hate to have to tell Darla about your favorite pastime."

Xander gave Willow a dirty look, and she responded by sticking out her tongue. She started laughing as she heard Jesse giving Xander a hard time as they left.

"I told you no good could come of this. Rule #1, never let your best friend become friends with your girlfriend. They'll do nothing but rip you apart."

"Shut up, Jesse."

The guys took off for Xander's car, leaving Willow and Cordelia talking on the steps. Buffy was trying to convince herself she was being paranoid. <There's probably alot of girls named Darla. Besides, it was daylight, it couldn't be the same Darla.> Buffy decided to approach her friends.

"Willow?"

Both girls turned, and Willow backed up slightly.

"I thought we told you to stay away from us." Cordelia said, planting herself between her friend and Buffy.

"Willow, I just want to apologize. I didn't mean to hurt you."

The sound of a motorcyle stopped the conversation.

"Willow, go ahead. I'll make sure blondie stays here."

"Cordelia...."

"It's okay. And say Hi to sweet cheeks for me." Cordelia said.

"You know he hates it when you call him that."

"I know. Now go. I'll see you guys tonight."

Willow took a final look then walked toward her boyfriend. She knew the blonde girl wouldn't hurt Cordelia, but Willow still hated leaving her friend alone.

Buffy watched Willow walk toward the motorcyle. The man was wearing a helmet, but she could tell it wasn't Oz. This guy looked taller, and more muscular.

"I'd get out of here if I were you."

Buffy turned to Cordelia, "Look, I don't want to cause any trouble."

"Too late. And once he finds out what you did to Willow, he won't be a happy camper."

"Who is he?"

"Not that it's any of your business, but that's Willow's boyfriend."

"That's not Oz."

"Who? I don't know anyone named Oz. But, don't say I didn't warn you."

Buffy watched as Cordelia walked away. Then she turned her attention back to Willow. There was something familiar about the guy on the bike. Buffy saw the man examine Willow's arm, and then saw Willow turn and point in her direction. The guy visibly tensed, and stood up. Buffy watched in disbelief as the man removed his helmet.

"Angel?!" Buffy whispered his name.

End Part 2

Buffy couldn't believe what she was seeing. It was the middle of the day and Angel was out in the sunlight. Buffy didn't move as Willow and Angel approached her.

"You the bitch who did that to Willow?"

"Angel, is it really you?" Buffy reached out to touch Angel's arm, but he pulled away.

"I don't know how you know my name, and I really don't care. But listen very carefully, if you ever come near Willow again, you'll regret it. No one hurts her, got it?"

Buffy stood watching Angel. He wasn't acting like himself, but more of a combination of Angel and Angelus. And he wasn't being affected by the sun. Was it possible that he wasn't a vampire? Before she even thought about it, Buffy threw herself into Angel's arms and kissed him.

Angel was surprised, but immediately pushed Buffy away. Wiping his mouth in disgust, he stared at the blonde.

"What the hell was that?"

Buffy stared at Angel, her love for him coming back full force. She had felt his heart beat, and felt the warmth of his breath when she kissed him. He was alive!

"Angel, you have to remember me. We love each other, and now we have a second chance. My God, you were my first and only lover, you have to remember that!"

"What!?" Willow asked in disbelief, looking from her boyfriend to Buffy.

"She's crazy, don't believe anything she says. I've never seen her before in my life."

Willow was becoming afraid of the blonde girl. Before, she'd been willing to believe that hurting her wrist had been an accident, but now it looked like the girl was after Angel. And she was making up any story necessary to get him.

"Angel, let's go." Willow begged.

"No, don't. Willow, you know this isn't right. I love Angel and he loves me. You know that. We belong together, just like you belong with Oz."

"Who's Oz?" Angel asked.

"Her boyfriend. He's in a band here at school. They've been together for a while now."

"More stories. You must have some imagination. I'm her boyfriend. Willow and I have been together for three years. Neither of us know anyone named Oz. From now on, keep your stories to yourself and stay away from us."

Angel wrapped his arm protectively around Willow, and they walked back to his bike. Without a backward glance, they drove off. Buffy stood on the steps, watching them leave, with tears spilling down her face. Looking around, she found herself the object of stares from the other students. Buffy ran home, she needed to talk to her mom.

Buffy sat in her room, trying to figure out when everything had gotten so screwed up. According to her mother, they had only moved to Sunnydale last month. Buffy had even gone out earlier to check on vampire activity, and was surprised by the number of people out at night. Obviously, whatever was going on, didn't include vampires. A memory began tickling her memory. <Oh, no! That wish, it came true. But how?>

She hadn't meant what she said. They were words used in anger, but now she had gotten the wish that she never wanted. There had to be some way to get her life back. To unwish the wish, or make a new wish to cancel it out.

"I wish......" Buffy stopped. <What do I wish for? I don't know what to say to fix this. I need to find out more, before I make another mistake.>

Buffy grabbed her bag, and headed to the library. Maybe Giles couldn't help her, but hopefully she'd be able to find answers in some of the books.

Giles sat in the library finishing some paperwork. He was anxious to get home to his wife, but he'd agreed to help his students. Xander, Jesse, and Cordelia had come to him to ask for his help. They were afraid of what this girl, Buffy Summers, was up to. She had already hurt Willow and made a play for Willow's boyfriend. Since he had been the first one she had approached, they hoped maybe he could get her to talk about herself. Find out if she was dangerous. Giles had called home, and Jenny had encouraged him to do what he could. She'd be waiting for him when he got home. It was obvious that the students were concerned for their friend.

"Hello Mr. Giles."

"Ms. Summers. You're here kind of late, aren't you?"

"I needed to find a book. It's important."

Giles looked skeptically at the young woman, "A book about what?"

"Wishes. More specifically, how to undo a wish."

"I'm not sure I have anything that will help you."

"Could you just check, please?"

Giles nodded, then went to the computer. He began a search, while Buffy sat across from him. He decided that this would be the perfect time to try to get some answers.

"Does this have anything to do with why you thought I should know you?"

Buffy continued to look at the floor.

"And why you attacked Willow Rosenberg?"

"I didn't attack her! It was an accident. I would never hurt her, she's my best friend."

"Maybe if you told me exactly what's going on, I could come up with a way to help you."

"You wouldn't believe me."

"Try me."

Buffy wasn't sure what to do. She stood up and began pacing. <I need to talk to somebody about this before I go nuts. > So, Buffy began telling Giles everything. Beginning with her finding out about being the Slayer, her arrival in Sunnydale, vampires, Angelus, and everything else that had happened. She left nothing out.

"Then I made that wish, but I didn't mean it. I was just mad at the world. Now I have to find a way to change things back."

Giles sat silently, trying to process everything she had told him. The story she told would make a good movie or tv show, but she had no grip on reality. The students were right to be afraid of her, she needed help.

"You want to be in a world where vampires exist, and evil threatens the world on a daily basis?"

"I knew you wouldn't believe me. But, I'll find a way to make things right without you!"

Buffy stormed out of the library. She needed to get to the Bronze.

Angel was sitting at a table with Willow and their friends when his cell phone rang. After listening to the caller, he dragged his hands through his hair. This wasn't good.

"Is anything wrong?"

Angel looked at the woman he loved. She had been with him through so much---good and bad. He always counted on her to keep him in line, and help him control his temper. Now someone was threatening her, and he wouldn't allow it. Angel pulled Willow into his arms, holding her tightly.

"What is it?" Willow asked worriedly, as she wrapped her arms around him.

Angel looked at the others around the table. They were the best of friends, and now they would have to depend on each other to get through this situation.

"That was Mr. Giles. He talked to that Summers girl. We've got problems."

End Part 3

"What did he say?" Xander asked.

"According to what she told him, she thinks she made some wish that changed everything, and this is the result. She thinks she knows all of us, and has cast us all into roles in her 'reality'. And now she's trying to find a way to undo the wish."

"She's really a space cadet, huh? What kind of roles?" Cordelia asked.

Angel held Willow close to him. He knew this was going to be hard on her, especially since this wacko had picked Willow as her best friend.

"Well, she's a vampire slayer, the chosen one to save the world. Mr. Giles is her watcher, kind of a mentor. Xander and Cordelia, you're friends of hers, although she said that the two of you were dating. And apparently Jesse was first turned into a vampire, then killed, shortly after she came to town."

"Oh, that's just great. My buddy is dating my girlfriend, and I'm vampire food. I don't think I like my role."

"Just hope she doesn't decide to make you dead for real."

"Thank you Xander, I feel so much better now."

Willow remained silent. She knew that there was more coming, and she wasn't going to like it. She watched as Cordelia wrapped her arms around Jesse. Cordelia may act like a snob sometimes, but her love for Jesse was real. And it had hit her hard that this girl may try to hurt him. Jesse wrapped his arms around his girlfriend, trying to comfort her.

"What else, Angel?" Willow whispered.

"I guess the next person would be Darla."

"Wait a minute, she doesn't even know Darla." Xander argued.

"Apparently, in her little world, she does. Darla is a vampire who dresses as a private school girl to get victims. I guess she was the one to make me into a vampire some 240 years ago. But I killed her to save Buffy."

"Wonderful. So now we have to worry about her trying to off both Darla and Jesse to make her little world more accurate." Xander yelled, pulling Darla closer to him. She had gone deathly pale.

"If you're a vampire, why would you kill one of your own?" Jesse asked.

"That gets confusing. After I became a vampire, I was called Angelus and was evil. Then gypsies cursed me with my soul, and I was a good vampire. After finding happiness with Buffy, I lost my soul and became Angelus again. I even killed Ms. Calendar."

"Who?"

"Mr. Giles wife. Only she wasn't his wife in this other reality."

"By finding happiness, that's where you sleeping with her came in, right?" Willow asked.

"What!?" The word echoed by the others.

Angel turned Willow to face him. Tears were forming in her eyes. His hands moved to her face.

"Willow, you know none of this happened. It's all in her mind."

"But, she believes it. That's what worries me." Willow wrapped her arms around her boyfriend, burying her face in his shoulder.

"What about Willow?"

"Buffy believes Willow is her best friend. Willow is dating some guy in a band who turns into a werewolf."

"Lovely." Cordelia said sarcastically.

"It sounds like you guys better watch your backs. This girl is a few bricks shy of a load, if you know what I mean."

"You better include yourself in that first statement. You two are also in her little world."

"What? How the hell did that happen?"

"Don't ask me. But both you and Dru are vampires, made by me, I might add. You two are lovers, but Dru is crazy and also has a thing for Angelus."

"Like I really wanted to know that, mate."

"Oh, and something else. She's even given you a different name."

"What's wrong with my name? William is a fine name, so is Billy." Seeing the smirk on his friend's face was making him nervous.

"What is it?"

"Spike."

"What!?"

For the first time since they had received the phone call, the entire group burst out in laughter. Except Billy. He wasn't finding any of this funny.

"Does she know something we don't know?"

"Shut up, Dru. You're crazy remember."

Dru walked behind her boyfriend and wrapped her arms around his shoulders. Kissing his neck, she playfully teased him.

"Maybe I am, so you better be nice to me, lover."

Billy pulled Dru onto his lap. He noticed everyone had paired up, holding tightly to their significant others. They were all in the same boat now.

"All kidding aside, what are we going to do about this girl?" Billy asked.

"Mr. Giles said he's going to talk to the principal tomorrow. Maybe getting her mother involved will accomplish something. This girl is in serious need of help."

"So, then what do we do?"

"Watch each other's back. Stay as far away from her as possible. Mr. Giles said he didn't think she was a physical danger to any of us, but he did say she seemed fixated on two things. Willow and me."

"Why you two?"

"He believes she sees Willow as her best friend, and if she gets her back as her friend, the other things will go back to what she thinks is normal. And as for me,..........."

"She's in love with him. Believes they are lovers, and belong together."

The others said nothing. They knew nothing would come between Willow and Angel, they had been together too long, and their love was too strong. But, if this Buffy person had become obsessed with Angel, it was a very real possibility that she might hurt Willow to get her out of the way.

"From now on, I think we all need to keep our eyes open. I can't be with Willow during school, so that would be the time Summers would make her move."

"Don't worry about that. Jesse and I will be with her during school, and we'll pass the word so if anyone sees the girl anywhere near Willow, they'll let us know."

"Hopefully, once your principal gets involved, she'll be sent away."

"I think we all need to relax right now. Think about something else. Let's dance." Dru said, trying to lighten the mood.

Dru pulled Billy out onto the dance floor. They were followed by Cordelia and Jesse, and Xander and Darla. Angel and Willow stayed at the table.

"We'll get through this, Willow."

"I'm scared, Angel. We don't know what she's capable of. What if she is capable of killing or hurting us, she's certainly strong enough."

The reminder that Willow had already been hurt by this girl, made Angel determined to see that this ended quickly.

"We've done what we can do. It's up to the school to intervene now. All we can do, is make sure we don't get anywhere near her. And, I'd feel better if you stayed with me tonight. I don't want you at home alone."

"I don't want to be alone, either."

Angel pulled Willow out onto the dance floor with their friends. They tried to enjoy themselves, but the fear remained.

Buffy entered the Bronze, and immediately spotted her friends. <Hey, hey the gang's all here.> She noticed that Spike and Dru were also part of the group, as was Darla. Although, she'd never seen any of them dressed in jeans and t-shirts before. They actually looked normal.

Buffy waited until she saw Willow and Angel head back to the table. They were the two she wanted to talk to. Dodging other customers, Buffy headed to the table. The three of them had a lot to discuss.

End Part 4

"Hi, guys."

Angel and Willow turned slowly. Angel stood, pulling Willow behind him. He didn't want her anywhere near the intruder.

"You're not welcome here, so why don't you leave."

"Angel, please. I'm not here to hurt anyone. This has all been a huge misunderstanding. I realize this is my fault, but we have to figure out how to get things back to normal."

"Wrong, we don't have to do anything. You have to get a reality check. Whether you want to face it or not, this is normal. For some odd reason, you've attached yourself to Willow, to all of us. You've made up a reality of your own, putting us into roles you have picked, but it's not real. The sooner you accept that, the better."

Buffy watched Angel protecting Willow, and felt a stab of jealousy. She finally had Angel back, but he wasn't hers anymore. Maybe there wasn't a way to go back to the life she had before the wish, but if that was the case, she'd use this life to reunite with her love.

"Angel, can we go someplace to talk? Alone."

"Do I look stupid to you? I'm not going anywhere with you."

Buffy started to approach Angel, but stopped when she saw the look in Angel's eyes. He looked very much like Angelus, poised for a fight. She turned to look at Willow. Buffy realized that if she stood a chance of getting Angel back, she would need Willow's help. She knew that if she was able to talk to Willow privately, she could convince her to help persuade Angel.

"Willow, you know we need to talk about this. My life has been turned upside down, and I need you to be there for me. You're my best friend. Don't turn your back on me."

"I feel sorry for you, but you need help. I'm not your friend."

"Willow...."

"Are we having a problem here?"

Buffy turned, and found herself staring at her enemy.

"Spike!"

"I don't know where you got that hideous name, but I'd prefer you didn't give it to me. Now, I don't think you're wanted here. So, why don't you run along?"

"Back off! This is between Willow and I. Why don't you crawl back under your rock?"

"Stay away from Willow!"

Buffy was confronted by the group, who had formed a shield in front of Willow. They had seen and heard enough to realize that she had become the main target.

"Now, listen closely. Whatever problems you have, leave us out of them. We don't know you, and we're not you're friends. You want to live in a fantasy world, go right ahead, but we don't want to play." Angel said angrily.

"This isn't a game. This is my life we're talking about."

"Not anymore. You're in enough trouble as it is, so just stay away from all of us." Angel said, then motioned for the others to leave.

"One more thing, don't you dare go anywhere near Willow. You really don't want to see me angry."

Buffy watched the group leave. This whole thing was turning into an even bigger mess. All she had managed to do was alienate her friends further. And she knew she wouldn't be able to get near Willow again, especially not alone, so they could talk. Buffy left the Bronze, and walked the streets of Sunnydale, trying to figure out to do.

Here was her dream come true. There were no vampires, she could have a normal life with the man she loved. Angel was alive and they could be so happy together, but fate had played a trick and taken away his memory of their love. She could've been content with this life, if she'd have Angel. But, that wasn't going to happen, so she needed to find a way to get back to her real life.

{Oh, Slayer, when will you learn. What you wish for, is seldom what you get. You are forcing me to reveal myself, and that I don't like.}

Buffy was sitting on her bed when a glowing light appeared in front of her. She jumped up into a defensive stance.

{"Hello, Slayer."}

"Who....or what are you?"

{"I'm the one who granted your wish. You wanted a normal life, and so you have one."}

"This isn't a normal life!"

{"It would've been, if you hadn't tried to change it into your past. You don't realize that although these people look like those from your previous life, they aren't the same people. They don't have the memories of those you knew, nor are they the same in any other way. As you should have realized when you saw Angel in the daylight."}

"I want my old life back!"

{"I'm afraid that's not possible. You made the wish, and it was granted. Nothing can be as it was."}

"I didn't want to make a wish. I was angry, and I said things I didn't mean! How can you grant a wish that I never wanted?"

{"It is not my place to analyze people's wishes. I grant those that I think deserve to be granted."}

"There must be some way to undo this. I want to go back to the way things were."

{"I told you, it can never be as it was. That place is gone."}

"I don't believe you! There has to be someway."

The room was silent. Buffy watched the flickering lights, and smiled.

"There is something I can do! What is it?"

{"You don't understand, mortal. To put things back causes certain problems. And you would still not have things back the way you left them. Also, you would have to pay a price for making such a wish."}

"I don't care. Even if things aren't exactly like they were, they would be better then this."

{"You don't even ask about the price you must pay."}

"I told you, I don't care. Just tell me what I have to do."

{"You are the most stubborn human I've ever had to deal with. But, if you are determined to do this, against my protests, then I must honor that."}

"So, what do I have to do?"

{"Make the wish to return to your reality before you made your first wish. That will return you to the library, training with Giles."}

"Is that all? I wish...."

{"Wait, I must tell you what to expect. By making this wish, you must forfeit something of my choosing. You will not know what that is until you return to your reality, and then there is nothing you can do to reverse it. I will not appear to you again."}

"Will I know what was forfeited?"

{"Yes. You will have the memories dealing with that, but no one else will. If you try to talk to anyone about it, they will think you are crazy. Just as the people here do."}

Buffy thought about it for a minute. She was willing to forfeit anything to be back with her friends. And together, they would find a way to restore Angel's soul.

"Fine. I understand. Now, I wish to be returned to the library before I made my wish."

Buffy watched the lights glow brighter, but nothing else happened.

"Is that it?"

{"Go to sleep. When you awaken, things will be as you wished. Just remember, I warned you. You have chosen this path, and now I have chosen payment."}

Buffy went to sleep, happily dreaming of getting back to her real life.

{You should have listened to me, Slayer. Did you think I wouldn't know that which is your greatest desire? To put things back, that is what must be forfeited. You thought by going back you would have the life you wanted. Too bad you are such a slow learner.}

The lights flickered, and then disappeared. Never to return again.

End Part 5

"Buffy?"

Buffy blinked, then looked up.

"Giles?"

"Glad to see you haven't fallen asleep. I've tried to get your attention several times."

"You know who I am. It worked!"

Buffy grabbed her Watcher into a hug.

"What has gotten into you?"

Buffy pulled herself back. She was back where she belonged, and everything was going to be alright.

"Nothing. Just thinking about a weird dream I had."

Giles looked at his Slayer suspiciously. She was acting strange, but he couldn't put his finger on what was different about her. He watched as she dropped into a chair, looking around the library.

"Where are the others?"

"They were at Willow's, but are meeting back here in a couple minutes. But you already knew that."

"Oh, yeah, guess it slipped my mind."

Buffy was in such a good mood, she couldn't wait to see her friends.

"Any luck finding a restoration ritual?"

Giles looked at her blankly, "A what?"

"Giles, come on. I know how you feel about this, but you promised you'd try to find something."

"Why would we need a restoration ritual? It wouldn't accomplish anything, and we couldn't get it to work on Spike and Dru anyway."

"Not for them, for Angel."

"Buffy, are you sure you're alright? Angel already has his soul."

"What!? When did that happen?"

"When the gypsies cursed him, a hundred years ago. What's wrong with you?"

"But, then he lost it, and became Angelus again."

"Buffy, I think you need some rest. You're not making any sense."

Just then the rest of the gang entered. Buffy jumped up as she saw Xander, Cordelia, Willow, and Angel enter the library.

"Guys, you're back!"

"Hey, Buffy. Training over?"

Buffy didn't answer. Her gaze was fixed on Angel. She didn't see the confused looks the others exchanged.

"Hello. Earth to Buffy."

Buffy walked over to Angel and touched his face lovingly.

"You're back. Thank God!" Then Buffy threw herself into his arms.

"What's going on, Buffy? Where did I go?"

Buffy was confused as Angel gently pushed her away from him. Looking at her friends faces, she saw they were looking at her strangely.

"I think Buffy's a little disoriented right now. She kind of blanked out during training. Maybe she better go home and rest."

"I'm fine, Giles."

Willow walked over to Buffy, and felt her forehead. Buffy smiled, glad to see the concerned look in her friend's eyes.

"Will, I don't have a fever. Besides, I need to be on patrol."

"Okay, but we'll go with you."

"Let me just run to the bathroom, I look like I just woke up. Be back in a minute."

Giles watched her leave the library, then turned to the others. They were looking at him for answers.

"What was that all about? Why did she attach herself to Angel?"

"I don't know, Xander. It was strange, one minute we were practicing, the next she had gone blank. She didn't move, or acknowledge me. Then she came out of it, talking nonsense."

"Like what?"

"Wanting to know if I'd found a restoration ritual to restore Angel's soul."

"What? That doesn't make any sense." Angel said.

"Well, she said something about having a weird dream, maybe she isn't completely awake yet. And she was confusing her dream with reality."

"That doesn't explain how she looked at Angel." Willow stated.

Angel smiled, then pulled Willow into his arms. He kissed her, and tucked her under his arm.

"You weren't jealous, were you?"

Willow hit Angel in the chest.

"Maybe. Besides, she's never looked at you like that before, and she's never thrown herself at you like that either."

"Don't worry, Will. She was probably freaked about her dream, and went for the one closest to her. It didn't mean anything."

Buffy entered the library, but stopped suddenly when she saw Willow in Angel's arms. This isn't right, he's supposed to remember our love now. As she was about to storm in and demand answers, she remembered what was said about a forfeit. <No!!!>

Buffy ran back to the bathroom. This wasn't happening. That being had told her she'd have to forfeit something, but it didn't say it was going to be the one thing she wanted more then anything else. It had sent her back to her life, with all her memories, but it had ripped Angel out of her life. And put him in Willow's.

Buffy tried to remember what the being had said. She'd been so intent on getting back, she didn't listen too carefully. <It said that I would remember, but no one else would. So this is what it meant. I had my life back exactly as it had been, except I've lost Angel.> Then she remembered something else the being had said. <There's no way to undo this now.> Buffy dropped to the floor in tears.

Willow and Cordelia had gone to the bathroom to see what was taking Buffy so long. They found her crying. Willow knelt by her friend, and drew her into a hug.

"Buffy, what's the matter?"

"It wasn't supposed to be like this. We were supposed to be together. We belong together."

"Buffy, what are you talking about? You're not making any sense."

"Our love was so special, and the night we had together was magical. It can't be over, I won't let it be. I'll fight for him, Willow. I don't want to hurt you, but he's mine."

Willow looked at Cordelia, and shrugged her shoulders. They had no idea what Buffy was talking about.

"Buffy, I think you need to get some rest."

Buffy pushed Willow away and stood up. She went over to the sink, and rinsed her face with water. Then she looked at Willow.

"I'm sorry, Willow. I know you don't remember this stuff, it told me you wouldn't, but I can't let him go."

"Buffy?"

"Look, I made a wish in anger and this being granted it, but I didn't mean it. Then it told me there was a way to undo it, but it would come at a cost. I didn't realize what I would have to forfeit, and now that I do, there's no way to change it back. But, I won't give him up. I lost him before, it won't happen again."

"Buffy, who are you talking about?"

"Angel." Buffy whispered.

Willow stepped back as though she'd been hit. Cordelia watched the scene in shock.

"What? You're talking crazy."

"No, I'm not Willow. I love Angel, and I always have. He loves me too, and we belong together. And since our night together didn't cause him to lose his soul, there's nothing standing between us."

"What night together?"

"The night we made love."

Cordelia raced to Willow's side, as she swayed. Willow stared at Buffy, then turned to run out. Cordelia turned on Buffy.

"How could you?" Then Cordelia raced after Willow.

Back at the library, the guys were getting impatient.

"I knew it was a bad idea to send them into the bathroom together." Xander said as he flipped through magazines. He nearly jumped a foot when Hurricane Cordelia raced in.

"Whoa, where's the fire?"

"Where's Willow?"

"Uhm, is that a trick question? She went with you, Cordy."

Xander then noticed how upset Cordy was.

"What happened?"

Cordelia summed up the conversation, and Xander paled.

"ANGEL!"

Angel and Giles came rushing out of the office.

"What?"

Xander didn't say a word. Before Angel could see what was coming, Xander decked him in the nose.

"What the hell?" Angel yelled, grabbing his nose.

"How could you!? I thought you loved Willow."

"I do. What's the matter with you?" Angel questioned.

"Xander, what has gotten into you?" Giles asked.

"Ask vamp boy. If he loves Willow so much, why did he sleep with Buffy?"

"WHAT?" Both Giles and Angel yelled.

"I've never touched Buffy."

"That's not what she says." Cordelia answered.

"Explain, Cordelia."

Cordelia repeated the conversation she'd heard. Angel stared at her in shock.

"You're telling the truth, aren't you?" Xander asked Angel, although he already knew the answer. He could tell by Angel's reaction that it wasn't true.

"Where's Willow now?" Angel questioned. He needed to find Willow, and straighten this out.

"She ran out of the bathroom in tears. I don't know where she went."

"I have to find her." Angel yelled as he raced from the library.

"We'll help you look." Xander and Cordelia followed Angel out. Giles stayed to confront his Slayer.

Buffy entered the library, to find no one there except Giles.

"Where is everyone?"

"Sit down. Now!"

Buffy sat, knowing what Giles was going to say. She would listen to her Watcher, then find Angel. After she talked to him, she would track down Willow, and try to make her understand. Buffy hated having to hurt Willow, but there was no way around it this time.

End Part 6

"How could you, Buffy?"

"Giles, you wouldn't understand."

"You're right, I don't understand how you could lie to your best friend. Do you realize what you've done?"

"I didn't lie to her. Angel and I love each other, she just doesn't remember that."

"And neither does Angel apparently. Nobody else knows it either."

"I know that. The being said that would happen, but I didn't realize it intended to take Angel away from me."

"I think you better explain yourself."

Buffy told Giles about making the wish, and the life she found herself living. She told him about the being who allowed her another wish, and how she had to forfeit something.

"The price of my returning here, was obviously losing Angel, but I won't accept that. He may not remember the past, but we can rebuild our future."

"Buffy, I think you're shaken from this dream you had, but you have to realize what you're doing. There was never anything between you and Angel. You are friends, nothing more. He's always been with Willow."

"Giles, that's not true. I can't prove it to you, but Angel is mine, and I'll fight to get him back."

"Even if it means destroying your friendship with Willow?"

"I don't want to hurt Willow, she's my best friend. I'm hoping she'll understand why I have to do this."

"Oh, I'm sure she'll understand why her best friend is trying to steal her boyfriend."

"Giles, you have to trust that I know what I'm doing."

"I can't pretend to condone what you're doing, Buffy. You better think long and hard about this, because it's going to blow up in your face."

Giles walked out of the library. He hoped that Buffy would see that she was making a mistake before it was too late.

"She's not at home, where would she go?"

Angel was becoming frantic. They hadn't found Willow yet, and it was dangerous to be out at night. He could kill Buffy for this.

"Angel, she's upset and confused. You should've seen Willow's face when Buffy told her that you two had slept together. And then Buffy told Willow, that you loved her. Willow was devastated."

"Willow knows I love her. There's never been anything between Buffy and I. Never!"

"Buffy sounded pretty convincing, Angel."

Angel didn't understand any of this. Why did Buffy tell Willow those lies? Why was she trying to destroy their relationship?

"I'm scared for her. She's out here alone."

"Why don't you check your apartment? We'll check the Bronze, then swing by her house again."

"Okay."

"Angel?"

Angel turned to Xander, and saw Xander turn away.

"What?"

"I'm sorry.....about hitting you. When Cordy told me what happened, I was furious that you had hurt Willow. I didn't stop to think that it might not be true."

"That's okay. It threw all of us. Buffy has never lied to any of us before, then she pulls out this whopper. I have to find Willow, and make sure she knows that none of its true."

They split up and Angel headed to his apartment. He opened the door, and breathed a sigh of relief when he saw Willow sitting in the chair.

"Thank God! We've been looking all over for you."

"Stay away, Angel."

Angel ignored Willow's command. He walked over and knelt in front of the chair. Willow tried to get up, but Angel held her in place. His hands gripped her arms, holding her in the chair.

"Willow, Buffy was lying. You know that, don't you?"

"I don't know what to believe."

"Willow, I don't know what's going on with Buffy or why she said those things, but they were all lies. I love you with all my heart and soul. The only thing I feel for Buffy is friendship. Although after her stunt tonight, that may not even be true anymore."

Willow wanted to believe Angel so badly. She didn't want to think that he could've betrayed her, but Buffy had sounded so sincere.

"Have you ever slept with her?" Willow whispered.

"No." Angel said without a second's hesitation.

Angel stood, pulling Willow to her feet. He wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her against him. He could feel her shaking, and tightened his hold.

"Willow, you are the only lover I have. You're the only woman I want."

Willow wrapped her arms around Angel, and let herself lean into him. The doubts she'd had ever since her conversation with Buffy vanished. Willow knew Angel would never lie to her, he had proven himself more then once. He had never betrayed her trust, and she felt a renewed confidence that he never would.

"Why did she say those things? Why is she trying to hurt me?"

"I don't know. But, we're going to find out."

"There's something else, Angel."

"What?"

"She made it clear she wants you back. By any means necessary."

"I don't care what she said. She can't get back something she never had. As long as we know what she's up to, and trust each other, she can't come between us."

"I love you, Angel."

"I love you, too. God, I've never been so scared in my life. I was afraid you'd believe her lies, and I'd lose you forever."

"Not a chance, you're stuck up me."

Angel picked Willow up into his arms, and carried her to the bed. She knelt on the bed, and began kissing him. They were interuppted by the ringing phone.

"Damn."

Willow smiled and sat on the bed. Angel picked up the phone. After several minutes, he hung up the phone. He laid down on the bed next to Willow. His hand began tracing figures on her thigh.

"Who was that?"

"Xander. Wanted to know if I'd found you."

Willow knew there was more. Angel hadn't looked at her yet. She captured his hand in her own, and gave it a tug.

"What else?"

Angel looked up at Willow, then lowered his head to her lap. Willow began combing through his hair with her fingers, and waited patiently for him to continue.

"He talked to Giles. Buffy is still convinced that she and I belong together. Nothing Giles said got through to her."

"What happens next?"

"I don't know. We have to find out what's going on in her mind, what it is she wants."

"She wants you."

Angel sat up, and kissed Willow.

"Then she'll be disappointed. I'm already taken."

Willow leaned into her lover's embrace, and they held onto each other.

"Stay here tonight."

Willow nodded, and they fell backwards. Angel leaned over Willow, and kissed her. They spent the night making love, and putting all thoughts of Buffy out of their minds. Tomorrow they would deal with their friend, tonight was their time.

Buffy wanted to rush over to Angel's to talk to him, but decided against it. She knew he'd be angry, and she needed time to figure out how to explain this to him. Buffy laid on her bed, and dreamed about the night she and Angel had spent together. There would be more of those nights to come, she was sure of it. Buffy drifted to sleep, memories of Angel lulling her into a deep sleep.

Tomorrow, everything would be worked out, and she'd be back with Angel.

End Part 7

Willow woke up, wrapped in Angel's arms. Since it was Saturday, she didn't have to get to school, so she snuggled back under the covers. At her movement, Angel tightened his grip and pulled her back against him.

"Weren't thinking of leaving, were you?"

"Not seriously."

Angel chuckled and let his hands roam over Willow's body. It was several minutes later, he felt Willow's body tense.

"What's the matter?"

"I should go see Buffy. Try to find out what's going on."

Angel sat up suddenly, and Willow looked at him, surprised.

"No way. You aren't going anywhere near her."

"Angel, she's my best friend. I have to talk to her."

"Then you wait till tonight, and we'll talk to her together. All of us. I don't want you going alone."

Willow was silent. She knew Angel was right, he was a big part of this, and should be there. Besides, Willow didn't know if she was ready to face Buffy alone.

"Willow, promise you won't leave."

"I promise, go back to sleep."

Angel laid back down, pulling Willow back into his arms. Neither were able to go back to sleep, too many unanswered questions kept them awake. Willow reached for the phone and called Xander. It was arranged that they would all meet at the library at dusk. They had to confront Buffy.

Buffy walked into the library, and found everyone seated around the table. She had figured they would all be waiting for her. <This must be what an intervention feels like.> Buffy's gaze sought out Angel's, and her heart did flip-flops. She loved him so much, but he refused to meet her eyes. She made herself look at Willow, and winced when she saw her friend's pale face. Willow looked like she hadn't slept all night.

"Buffy, I think we all have to talk. Come sit down." Giles motioned to a chair next to him. She also noticed it was on the other end of where Angel and Willow sat.

Buffy sat down, and looked from one friend to the other. She had missed them all, and had been so glad when she'd returned to this life. Now they were looking at her like their counterparts had. They were looking at her like they didn't know her.

"Buffy, we want you to tell us why you said those things to Willow. We know they were lies, you've never had a romantic relationship with Angel. Why are you trying to hurt your friends?"

"That's not what I'm doing. I don't want to hurt anybody, I just want my life back the way it was. I want Angel back."

"You never had me, Buffy. We have been friends and allies, nothing more. I was already involved with Willow before we met."

"That's not true."

"Don't you remember what I told you when we met?"

Buffy thought back to their meeting. "You said you were a friend. Then I told you I didn't need any more friends."

"Right. And what did I say to you?"

"I didn't say I was your friend." Buffy repeated the answer he had given her then.

"I was Willow's friend. She asked me to help you, and I agreed. That's how you and I met."

"But, that can't be. That isn't how it happened."

"Yes, it is Buffy. You knew all this before, it never bothered you. In all the time I've known you, you've never shown any interest in Angel before." Xander added.

Buffy stood up and started pacing. She didn't want to hear anymore. She had always wondered about that comment, but had kind of forgotten about it as time went on. Was it possible? Was her mind confusing dreams with realities?

Willow walked over to Buffy, and touched her shoulder.

"Buffy, please stop this. If you've fallen in love with Angel, we can find a way to deal with that. Just, please stop with the stories."

Buffy wasn't sure what to do. Her mind was becoming confused, mixing everything up into a giant mess. Maybe if she tried to find something else that would tie-in to her relationship with Angel, she could prove it to everyone.

"Who killed Ms. Calander?"

"What?" Willow was confused by the change in topics.

"If Angelus never came back, who killed Ms. Calander?"

"Spike. Jenny had found out about his plans to open Acathla, and he killed her. And now he's rotting in hell where he belongs. Dru took off, and we haven't seen her since." Giles answered.

Spike killed Jenny? Not Angelus. Buffy was no closer to understanding what was happening, then she was before. Then another thought occured to her. It was her last chance to make sense of this.

"Where's Oz?" Buffy asked Willow.

"Oz? You mean the guy who turned into a werewolf. He graduated last year and went on tour with his band. He appreciated all the help we gave him. Why bring him up?"

"Because, you dated him."

"No, I didn't. I only saw him the few times he was here. Buffy, Angel and I have been together for almost two years. He's the only guy I've ever dated."

"Have you slept with him?"

Willow blushed at the question. "I don't see why that matters."

"Will, please, I need to make sense of this. My memories are completely different from yours, and not only about my relationship with Angel. I remember sleeping with Angel, and he lost his soul. He became Angelus, because the gypsies had it that if he ever found true happiness, he'd lose his soul. Then he began terrorizing all of us, and killed Ms. Calendar. She was a gypsy, from the same clan that cursed Angel. Angelus was the one who was planning to open Acathla."

"Buffy, none of that happened. Jenny wasn't a gypsy, and there were no stipulations to the curse. Angel was cursed with a permenant soul."

"Willow, please, just answer the question."

"Yes, we've slept together. And he's never lost his soul, he's never reverted back to Angelus."

Buffy sat down and let the tears fall. <Maybe I am going crazy.> Willow knelt beside Buffy, and took her hands.

"Buffy, talk to me. Try to make me understand."

"I can't, because I don't understand it myself. The memories are so clear, and I remember every detail of the night Angel and I spent together. But nothing else is the same, I don't know what to think anymore."

Buffy clung to Willow, and let the tears fall. She had been so determined to get Angel back, and now she wasn't even sure she'd ever had him.

"Buffy, you have to let this go, before you hurt everyone more. It's possible that you're memories of actual events have been clouded by your dreams, and maybe subconciously you are in love with Angel. But, you must listen to us. It's only fantasy, not reality. We'll help you if you let us." Giles said gently.

Angel watched the way Buffy clung to Willow, and his anger began to dissolve. He could see that Buffy hadn't meant to hurt Willow, she actually believed the things she'd said. No wonder she had sounded so convincing. Angel walked over to Buffy.

"Buffy, you need to get some rest. Too many things have happened, and you're on emotional overload. Go home and get some sleep. Then, if we have to, we'll all go through detail by detail everything that's happened since you came here. You can begin sorting out what's real and what isn't."

Buffy looked up at Angel, and saw for the first time the look in his eyes. There was concern, but no love.

"You've never loved me, have you?"

"No, but I do care about you. You're my friend, Buffy."

Buffy looked from Angel to Willow, and she saw how they looked at each other. She could see the love that existed between them, and knew that she didn't have a chance of coming between them. When she admitted that to herself, she felt a peace settle over her.

"I guess I knew that. I'm so sorry, Willow."

"Shhh, it's okay. Let's get you home, we can talk later."

Angel and Willow helped Buffy up, and left to escort her home. Xander and Cordelia stayed behind.

"Giles, is she going to be alright?"

"I think so, she just needs time to sort things out. Angel told me he'd take care of patrolling for a couple nights. That'll give Buffy some time to herself."

Xander and Cordelia left, and Giles soon followed. He hoped Buffy would accept that she'd never have Angel. If she didn't, it could become a problem.

Buffy tossed and turned in her bed, memories came flooding back to her. Were they real or not? She didn't know anymore. Finally, the Slayer drifted into a dreamless sleep.

{I'm breaking my own rule, Slayer. I vowed I'd never return, but I couldn't allow this to continue. You have a very important role in this universe, and I can't allow you to jeopardize that. I'm allowing you to believe that the memories of your time with Angel were just fantasy. That will make it easier for you to go forward. You forfeited the love of your life, and should have to live with that, but I must spare you that knowledge. For the sake of the world, you must forget.}

End Part 8

Buffy sat outside her house, and stared at the clouds. She was feeling a lot better about everything that had happened. They had taken Angel's suggestion, and everyone had sat down, and told her about the things that had happened since she had come to Sunnydale. By listening to their memories, and asking questions, she was able to sort out fact from fiction. Some of the things matched, but there was alot that didn't. Especially concerning Angel.

Willow had sat for hours with Buffy. She had answered every question Buffy had asked, even the personal ones about Angel. Then Buffy had gathered the courage to ask Angel some questions. After that, Buffy was able to understand what had happened. Somewhere along the line, she had fallen in love with Angel. But, knowing that he was in love with her best friend, Buffy had pushed those feelings deep inside. And when she'd had the dream about making a wish, everything had been mixed together. Her stressed-out state had only helped to confuse matters. She had almost allowed her fantasy to destroy her friendship with Willow.

Willow had been supportive and never judged Buffy. They dealt with Buffy's feelings, and she was able to face them, rather then push them away. Buffy still had vivid dreams about the night in Angel's arms, but she was able to look at them rationally. It wasn't that much different then dreaming about a movie star. Someone she was attracted to but could never have.

Buffy had thrown herself into her training, and into enjoying the time she spent with her friends. She had even begun dating, and the ache she felt when she saw Angel and Willow together, had begun to fade.

"Hey, mind if I join you?"

"Hi, Will. Sit down, what are you doing here?"

"Just thought I'd drop by and see how you're doing."

"I'm fine, really. It still kind of freaks me out that I was completely incapable of knowing the difference between what was real and what wasn't."

"Don't be so hard on yourself. You were under a lot of pressure. The fight with Spike was enough to stress you out, then add in Dru, and everything else."

"Can you ever forgive me? I mean, none of this would've happened if I hadn't been lusting after Angel."

"Buffy, you can't help who you fall in love with. There's nothing to forgive. You never acted on your feelings, and you protected me from knowing how you were feeling."

"You don't have anything to worry about. I've seen you and Angel together, no one could ever come between you two. I'm sorry I tried."

Willow pulled Buffy into a hug.

"It's over, Buffy. We all can move on and put this in the past. We're all stronger now, because this happened. And, you remember to take it easy every once in a while. Ask your friends for help, that's what we're here for."

"Thanks Willow. I don't know what I'd do without you."

Willow and Buffy went into the house to find some pigout food. Then, they would head to the Bronze. It was time for Buffy to begin living for the future.

Buffy sat at the Bronze watching her friends dance. Xander and Cordelia would always be a couple she never understood, but she knew they would find a way to make it work. Then she turned her attention to Willow and Angel. They looked so great together, she couldn't understand how she'd ever thought she could replace Willow in Angel's heart. Her memories, or dreams, of Angel had become more infrequent. And she knew eventually they would stop all together. Now that she was convinced that there had never been anything between them, she could let go of those dreams. And she could look for someone she could love.

As Buffy watched the couples dance, she knew that eventually she would find a love of her own. Until then, she would have plenty to keep her busy. The world of vampire slaying was never dull, and her friends kept life interesting.

"Would you like to dance?"

"I'd love to."

Buffy let the stranger pull her onto the dance floor, and they began slow dancing. There was something about him that seemed familiar.

"Do I know you?"

"Not yet."

Buffy smiled, and pressed herself closer to the man. She allowed herself to have fun and relax. Buffy felt comfortable with this stranger. Looking up into his handsome face, she knew she wanted to get to know him better.

"My name's Buffy."

"Nice to meet you, Buffy. My name is Michael."

Buffy leaned her head against Michael's shoulder. She saw Willow and Angel dancing wrapped in each other's arms, and smiled. They deserved to be happy together. Buffy closed her eyes and moved with the music, wrapped securely in Michael's arms.

She missed seeing the play of lights shimmering in the man's eyes.

{Wishes never turn out the way one expects, do they?}

THE END

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