"Talking to yourself is the first true sign of insanity" a voice spoke behind her amused.
Willow turned and saw Spike. She felt the familiar tightening in her tummy as she looked at him. He was too good looking. It should be illegal to be handsome and charming and witty. She scowled at him, "You didn't get to go either?"
"Go where?" he asked, surprised she didn't rise to his teasing.
"To face that demon. The one Buffy is so scared of. They all went and told me to stay home and be safe."
"So, that's why you're out at night and headed where?" Spike asked, wondering what was happening. He was always included in a demon hunt. This was strange.
"I want to help. Come with?" she asked, hoping he wouldn't notice the slight tremor of fear in her voice.
"Sure pet. Nothing else to do." Spike said, moving along with her. As they neared the area where the fighting was happening, he stilled. The scent of blood assaulted him. "Wait. Something is wrong, pet."
"Oh my god" Willow said, her eyes taking in the scene ahead of them. She saw Xander laying bloody on the top of a bench. His neck appeared to be broken. She felt her breathing quicken as she saw Anya laying on the ground, blood covering her still frame. She saw Giles laying across a table, blood pooled around him. She watched as the demon held Buffy by her neck. She started to run forward, fighting Spike's grip on her. She watched in horror as Buffy was thrown dead to the ground in front of her. She screamed, causing the demon to look in their direction.
"You will die next" he hissed, his eyes glowing red. He watched them as they began to run. He frowned, knowing there were suppose to be only four. They must have just stumbled upon this exercise. He chuckled knowing what it all must look like to them. He reached down and said the words that brought the slayer out of the spell. "You would have died. Want to try again?"
Buffy frowned, sitting up. Sighing, she nodded at the demon the council had sent to help them train. "Yeah. Get the others up. Take three." She stretched wondering how many times she was going to die that night.
**********************
Willow ran as fast as she could. She struggled to keep up with Spike. She couldn't believe it. They were gone. The demon was coming after her and Spike. He had said they would die. She panted for breath as Spike headed towards her dorm. What was she going to do?
Spike didn't know what to do. He couldn't believe what he had seen. The slayer had fallen. He felt pity for her. To die in such a horrid way. He ran with Willow until they made it back to her dorm. He looked at her, saw the shocked look in her eyes. "I can't believe it....I......"
She shook her head. There was nothing he could say. She looked at him, "I have to leave here. Please. Come with me?"
"Of course" Spike said, knowing he would never leave her to deal with this alone. "Get your stuff. We'll leave now...before he finds us."
She brushed away the tears, her mind still comprehending what she had seen. She packed in a hurry, taking only what was necessary. She had to get out of Sunnydale. She took a picture of her friends, shock starting to hit her as she realized that they were all dead. Spike's arm went around her as he helped her finish packing. They were in his car and headed out of Sunnydale in less than half an hour.
Willow lay her head against the car window, knowing she could never go back. They were all dead. She looked at Spike, thankful that he was with her. She had fallen in love with the vampire over the last six months. If she had to run away with anyone, at least it was him.
She began to sob quietly for her fallen friends. How was she going to survive without them? She felt a hand on hers and looked at Spike in surprise. She smiled softly, seeing the sadness in his eyes. He hadn't really liked Buffy but she knew he had been fond of Giles and Xander. He was hurting too. She squeezed his hand as he drove away from Sunnydale.
**********
May 2010
Corie Andrews looked at the dark house and grinned. She smoothed her brown hair, gray covered by Miss Clairol, and walked up the front steps. She rang the bell, straightening her suit. It had taken her four hours to reach the house from the airport. Over an hour since she had passed through a town of any great size.
She knew her client enjoyed privacy, but this was almost ridiculous. Not another neighbor for over fifty miles. She knew the entire mountain was owned by her client. She had been to this house several times in the last six years. She turned as the door opened. A smile crossed her face as she enveloped Willow Rosen in a hug. "Willow. I finally made it."
Willow smiled at the woman, allowing her to enter the house. "Corie. It's about time. Thought you New Yorkers were speedy."
"If certain people lived in normal areas, you couldn't get rid of me." Corie said, walking inside. She saw William and smiled. "Devilishly handsome this evening, Will."
"Corie, pet. What brings you out here?" Spike asked, smiling at the woman.
She laughed, "Well, I know I can't get either of you to come to town so here I am. The early sales figures for 'Passionate Betrayal' are in. Looks like another best seller."
Willow sat next to Spike, her green eyes watching Corie. "Really? That's good."
"What can I say? People love the adventures of Lucien."
Spike laughed, shaking his head. "Who would believe that people would like a vampire? It still amazes me."
Willow grinned smugly, "I told you it would work. There is something sexy and dangerous about a vampire."
"Really luv? Now, what would that be?" he asked, kissing her deeply.
Corie smiled at the couple. They were her top clients. Together they had written over a dozen best sellers. As William Rosen, they were known world wide as the best erotic horror writer around. Their main character was Lucien, a handsome vampire that aided a group of college students in a fight against evil. Add to that several interesting supporting characters and stories that frightened people to death and you had a huge hit. They were also her favorite clients. She loved getting away from the city to visit with them.
"Corie, pet. Why don't you run along to your room?" Spike asked, knowing she must be tired.
"Good idea. I'll see both in the morning...Well, the evening." Corie amended, knowing they would not be awake until sunset. She walked to the stairs, watching them with a smile. Wouldn't people die if they knew the authors of their favorite horror books were vampires themselves? She shook her head, laughing, as she went up the stairs to get some sleep. They could talk in the morning.
**********
Corie took the latest figures from Willow. She put them in her file and frowned. "I almost forgot to tell you."
"What?" Willow asked, her eyes looking for Spike. She could hear him moving upstairs. He would be down soon.
"Someone has been trying to find out who you are." Corie said, removing the paperwork from her briefcase.
"Really? Another reporter?" Willow asked, smiling as Spike walked into the room. He looked gorgeous, his hair rumpled from sleep. She kissed him before turning her attention back to Corie.
"No...A history teacher. From some town in California. Sunnyhaven...Sunnysomething."
"Sunnydale?" Willow asked softly, her hand clenching Spike's tightly.
"That's it!" Corie said, smiling. "I have the request here somewhere. It seems he is desperate to find you. Thinks he may know you."
"What's this bloke's name?" Spike asked, his voice low. He could smell Willow's terror. It had been ten years. Ten years without Sunnydale or reminders of that night. Who the bloody hell would be looking for William Rosen?
"I don't remember" Corie said, frowning. "I do have it here somewhere."
"Why did he want to know?" Willow asked.
"Don't ask me. I just got the letter inquiring about the author. Said he used to know someone that reminded him of the books or something. Aw, here it is."
"Reminded him of the books?" Willow said, frowning. She would have sighed but it was no longer necessary. She hadn't had to breathe for eight years. Not since she was twenty one. That had been when Spike had changed her. On their two year anniversary actually, the anniversary of Buffy's death. She shook her head of the memories, sometimes wishing that she had no soul. She could do without the nightmares sometimes. Of course, she loved writing so her memories helped during those times.
"What's the name, Corie luv?" Spike asked, wanting to know who may have tracked Willow down.
Corie looked at the paper, finding his name. "Here it is. Harris. Alexander Harris."
"Xander?" Willow said, pain piercing her heart. She shook her head, laughing dryly, "He's dead. Has been for ten years."
"Really? Well, that's the name that was given to me. He seemed very concerned" Corie said.
Spike caught Willow's eyes and they shared their thoughts. They had become so close over the years they often knew what the other was thinking without speaking. He looked at Corie, "You got a number for this Harris bloke?"
"Yes. He left his home number. Would you like me to call?"
"Yes....use the speaker phone please" Willow said, her mind a whirl of activity. If it was Xander, that meant he hadn't been dead that night years ago. But, she had seen him...she'd seen the blood. She couldn't understand how he could be alive. If it wasn't him, it had to be someone else looking for her. That thought scared her more than Xander being alive.
"Hello?" a deep voice said. Willow drew in her breath, her wide eyes looking at Spike.
"Mr. Harris?"
"Yeah?"
"This is Corie Andrews, William Rosen's agent?"
"Miss Andrews. Thank you for returning my call."
"Not a problem. William asked me to phone and see what this was about. He told me your name is unfamiliar to him."
Xander sighed over the phone, "Damn. Buffy was right. Sorry, Miss Andrews. It's a long story."
Willow looked pointedly at Corie, anger in her eyes at Buffy's name. She wanted answers. She had spent ten years running, convinced that they had all died that night.
"I have a few minutes. Maybe something you tell me will nudge William's memory."
"I've read his books since they started. There has always been something a bit too close to home in them. After the last one, Midnight Madness, I was convinced that he might have known an old friend of mine. There were details in that book...." His voice drifted off as if he had realized what he was saying.
"Do continue, Mr. Harris. You believe he knew an old friend?"
"My best friend. She died ten years ago. I don't think she died. Everyone else does. I've spent years looking for her after they all gave up. Well, I guess I was trying anything I could think of. I thought Mr. Rosen might be or might know Willow. Guess I was wrong." His voice was sad but reserved.
"Willow?" Corie said, looking at the girl in question. She tried to figure out what she was saying. Oh, she got it. "How did she die, if you don't mind my asking?"
Xander laughed softly, "You wouldn't believe me if I told you, Miss Andrews."
"I deal with writers every day Mr. Harris. You'd be amazed what I believe."
"She was killed by a demon. Along with a vampire we used to know. A friend too. Bet you don't believe that one." He said, his tone a bit bitter as he remembered.
"You'd be wrong, Mr. Harris. I am sorry I couldn't help at this time. I will be sure to pass along the information to Mr. Rosen though. Have a good day."
"You too. Thanks for calling me back. I guess I need to accept that Willow is really dead. I just don't feel it. Ugh. Anyway, sorry for babbling like a lunatic. Again, thank you Miss Andrews." Xander hung up.
Corie looked at Willow and William. "What the hell is this about?"
Willow shook her head, confusion on her face, "I wish I knew."
"I for one intend to find out" Spike said, his voice determined. "You up for it, pet?"
"I'm up for anything, lover" Willow said, her curiosity getting to her. "I would love some answers.
**********
"Hey Xan. How are you?" Buffy asked, sitting across from her old friend. She slid to the far side of the booth, allowing Riley to join her.
"Harris. How's it going?" Riley asked, nodding at his wife's best friend.
"Guys. It's cool. Got summer break coming up." Xander said, smiling. He still loved the school holidays. Teaching definitely had its perks.
"Hello everyone" Anya said, sitting down. She smiled at Xander, noticing the sadness in her ex-lover's eyes. "What's wrong?"
"Nothing" Xander said, wondering where the others were. Giles was late as were Angel and Cordelia.
"Hello all. We're here" Cordelia said, sitting down. Angel sat next to her, his arm around the back of her chair. He nodded at the others, still amazed that they had all survived as long as they had.
"Honey, something's bothering you" Faith said, frowning at her husband. Over the last eight years they'd been together, she had begun to read him rather well.
Xander just sighed, "It wasn't her."
"Of course it wasn't. She's dead. That damn Misslen demon got her." Buffy said, anger going through her. She had been practicing a plan of attack against that demon but before she could follow through, he had gotten both Willow and Spike. She felt that defeat everyday.
"B, shut up" Faith said, rolling her eyes. She had come back to Sunnydale after getting away for a year. She had done a lot of thinking and knew she had to change her life. Upon her return, she had been stunned to see the differences in the gang. Willow's death had shaken Xander completely. Buffy had freaked out and committed herself to fighting anything evil. Anya and Xander had broken up due to his insistence that Willow was still alive. She had slid into the vacated spot easily, actually being needed for once in her life. It was great. She had fallen in love with Xander, retired from slaying on her twenty fourth birthday and had two kids. "You ok?"
Xander laughed dryly, "Yeah. I knew it wasn't her. Just...the details. It seems so much like her when you read the words...I know I need to let her go."
"We all miss her, but it was a long time ago." Buffy said, speaking the truth. She still thought of Willow whenever she saw red hair or something that reminded her of her friend. But, her friend's face had faded from her mind. She could remember her if she concentrated, but it was all fading with time. She shook her thoughts away, "Come on. This is a party. Not a funeral. Willow died ten years ago. Life has gone on. We're all still alive and Sunnydale is the safest it's been for the last five years."
"She's right. Spike and Willow wouldn't want this depression" Angel said softly. He refused to talk about his childe's death, but deep down he agreed with Xander. His connection to Spike was still there. It had never faded. He had to believe the vampire was in hiding for some reason. He only hoped that he might Willow with him. But, after ten years, he still had not heard a single word. His hope was fading along with Xander's.
"Yeah. I know. Anyway, Miss Andrews said she'd ask Mr. Rosen if he had ever met Willow. It's unlikely. As you said, life goes on. Speaking of, there's the birthday boy."
Giles nodded as he arrived. Sitting next to Anya, he kissed his wife. "Sorry I'm late. Traffic is getting worse every day."
"Just admit that you fell asleep reading again" Anya said, smiling.
"You know me too well" Giles said, smiling at the others. His arrival removed the melancholy that the talk of Willow and Spike had brought about. His birthday party began, chatter and laughter filling the room.
**********
June 2010
"Mr. Harris?"
Xander looked up, not recognizing the woman that had entered his school room. He nodded, taking her in. She was in her late forties. A friendly expression crossed her face as she smiled at him. "That's me."
"Hello. I'm Corie Andrews. I am William Rosen's agent. We spoke on the phone..."
"I remember" Xander said, a bit confused. "What can I do for you?"
"Actually, I'm here for Mr. Rosen. He heard your story from me and was most intrigued. He is coming to Sunnydale to meet you and your friends. Actually, he's finishing up the last parts of his latest book and decided to write from here. Thought it might be inspiring." She amended.
Xander frowned, "Miss Andrews, I appreciate the thought, BUT I have no intention of discussing what we spoke of. It would be wise for Mr. Rosen to remain where ever he is. Sunnydale isn't the safest place in the world."
"He's aware of exactly what Sunnydale is. I will let him know your concerns, but he is very stubborn. He'll be here tomorrow. He'd like to invite you and your friends to a party. A small get together to celebrate the newest book."
"Really? I didn't think he was into the publicity thing" Xander said, remembering how difficult it had been tracking him down.
"He's not. It will consist of you and your friends and his wife. Actually, she is his writing partner. They collaborate. See, you already know more than the press."
"I'm sure my friends would be interested in meeting him. We all follow his series. My friend Giles, in fact, loves the historic detail...." Xander drifted seeing her smiling at him. "Anyway, I'm sure that it will be cool with them all. When and where?"
"They are renting a house on Sparrow Ct. 7685 I believe is the number. We can expect you and everyone that knew your friend Willow to be there?"
"What about Willow?" Xander asked, getting weary.
"Why, that's why he is interested in meeting you all. He was most intrigued, as I said earlier. He had done some researching into the case, so to speak."
"Did he find anything?" Xander couldn't help asking.
"You'll find out tomorrow night, I'm sure. Mr. Rosen doesn't share those details with me. All I know is he was spurred into finishing up 'Passionate Betrayal' and has only a few more chapters to complete. After that, their minds are a mystery. I will see you all then. Good day, Mr. Harris."
"See you then" Xander said, watching her leave. A tremor passed through him. Shaking his head, he wondered if the others would agree. If it meant finding something out about Willow, he'd make them agree. Maybe Mr. Rosen had found some link to her somewhere. Xander sighed, knowing he was insane. Ten years and he still expected to see her again. She was gone. He needed to accept that.
He decided not to mention the Willow angle to the others. Let them think he got them an invite to recluse author's party and that was it. They'd go then, he knew. None of them would turn down the chance to meet the William Rosen. He smiled as he wondered what the man was like. Probably fifty and balding. He laughed as he stood up and went to phone Faith. She could call the others.
**********
"Wow. This is such a great place" Cordelia said, looking around the lavish living room.
"There are some very old things here" Anya added, looking at the furniture.
"From the Rosen's private collection" Corie said, walking into the room. She smiled at Xander, "Mr. Harris. Glad to see you all could come."
"Wouldn't miss it" Xander said, a bit nervously. He really wasn't sure what to expect from this evening. All day he had had a sense of foreboding.
"The Rosens will be down shortly. Please, make yourselves comfortable. Can I get anyone something to drink?" she offered.
Everyone placed their orders, sitting down to await the arrival of the popular author. Corie went into the kitchen to get the drinks ready.
"So, why are we here again?" Buffy asked, looking at Xander. She had sensed his unease since they had arrived.
"Uh, we like his...their books" Xander said.
"Don't ever play poker, Xan" Angel said dryly. "Try telling the truth."
Xander sighed, making a face. "It's about Willow. He found out how she died and was intrigued. I figure he wants details for a new book or something."
"Fuck this" Faith said. "It's been ten years, Xander. She's gone. Get over it."
"Don't tell me to get over it!" Xander said, glaring at them all. "Her stuff was gone. None of you to this day can explain that one to me. IF that damn demon got her and Spike, why were some of her drawers empty?"
"He was looking for something" Buffy said. "We decided that ten years ago. There was hardly anything missing, Xander. I honestly don't know if ANYTHING was gone. A few pictures I couldn't find, but that was it. He got them when we were practicing with the council."
"We did find her purse on the campus grounds" Riley pointed out softly. He knew how hard it was to lose a friend. He had lost several when the Initiative had collapsed. But, he had moved on. He didn't understand why Xander couldn't see the truth.
"But, what if. What if she ran away? What if she was taken?" Xander said.
Giles shook his head sadly, "She would have let us know. Willow was not one to stay away for ten years without a postcard."
Xander felt Faith's hand on his back, rubbing him slowly. "Honey, please. You have to give this up."
Xander sighed, "I know. I just hate letting her go. Let's get happy, here. Damn, why am I always the one lately to bring everyone down?"
"Let go of the past" Cordelia said. "But, he's right. We're about the meet someone that no one has ever even interviewed. That is really cool."
The others started talking about the arrival of William Rosen, soon discussing past novels they had enjoyed from the man. Corie brought their drinks, excusing herself to go upstairs. They continued to chat, waiting for the Rosens.
**********
"You ok, pet?" Spike asked, his arm around Willow.
She nodded, looking at the tombstone. "I can't believe they thought I was dead."
"Well, we thought they had died. I still want to know what that was all about, personally" he said.
"Me too. I guess we should be heading to the house. Corie told them seven. I told her we'd be late. She's stalling."
"Fresh daisies" he said softly, leaning over and sniffing the flowers on her grave.
She smiled softly, "Xander used to give me daisies when we were kids. He must still come here...."
Spike looked up at her, his eyes curious. "He still doesn't believe you are dead. The others accepted it. Wouldn't have seen him as the type to stick it out and hope."
She shrugged, "We used to be very close. Life happened and we drifted apart. I guess he wasn't able to accept my death. The only was I was able to accept his was because I SAW him. I saw them all. I want some answers."
"Tonight, my luv, you get them" Spike said, his eyes glinting in the moonlight.
"Corie said everything was taken care of."
"That's good. Corie isn't bad, for a human." Spike asked. "Oh, Red. Did you get the call?"
"Yes, she is suppose to stay away until they leave, but knowing her, she'll interrupt the entire plan. She's always early."
Spike chuckled softly, "Yeah, she will deliberately. But, we can try to get what we need from them before she gets there. She is still pissed she had to stay home while we came out early."
"She can stay pissed. Spoiled little brat" Willow said, a smile on her face.
"I'll be sure to share that with her, luv." Spike said, kissing her gently. He sighed, looking around the cemetery. "Back in old Sunnyhell. What did I do to deserve this?"
"Loved me" Willow said, smiling as she took his hand. "Come on, lover. Time to get some answers." They headed back to their newest property, ready to face the past they had left behind.
**********
"Is it just me, or are they late for their own party?" Giles asked, looking at his watch pointedly.
"They're late" Riley said, frowning.
"Is anyone else getting weird vibes from all this?" Buffy had to ask.
They nodded. Cordelia spoke up, "Maybe it's part of the act. You know, horror writers so they are trying to spook us."
"I can see that" Anya said.
"No one is in the house except for Corie" Angel said quietly. "I can only hear the one heartbeat."
"Is anyone else a little spooked by that one?" Faith asked, making a face.
"Damn it, if this is a set up I'm killing someone" Buffy said, glaring at Xander.
"Ahem" Corie cleared her throat. After she got their attention, she smiled softly, "The Rosens stepped out for a moment. I was not aware of that when I went upstairs. They left a note saying they'd be a bit late, but they needed air. They should be here very soon."
"Are they always so freaky?" Xander asked.
Corie laughed, "Very eccentric, but the best people I've ever met. Most loyal friends I could ever consider mine. Take a bit to get used to them though..."
Everyone relaxed a bit at her statement. "Good. I was a bit worried" Xander said.
Angel suddenly stilled, drawing Cordelia's attention. He sniffed the air, a scowl crossing his face. It couldn't be....
"What's wrong?" Cordelia asked quietly.
He looked at the doorway, waiting. "I could have sworn I smelled...."
Corie heard the door shut and turned, a smile crossing her face. "You made it! They'll be so happy to see you."
"Drusilla" Buffy hissed, looking at the others in surprise and slight fear as the dark haired vampire hugged Corie tightly.
Drusilla pulled away from Corie, her dark eyes glancing around the room. She looked at Angel, a soft smile crossing her face. "Daddy."
Faith looked at Anya and Riley who wore matching confused expressions. She had never met the infamous Drusilla but had heard a lot of stories. A lot of stories. Somehow, she thought this evening wasn't going to be as quiet as they thought originally.
"Dru...what are you doing here?" Angel asked, pushing Cordelia slightly behind him to protect her from his childe.
"You know each other?" Corie said, looking rather bewildered.
"We've met" Buffy said drolly, a look of distrust in her eyes.
"Nasty old slayer. See my Angel moved on to someone else after all" Dru said, making a face at the slayer.
"Why are you here?" Xander asked, wondering if this was what William had found out about Willow.
"I was invited, kitten" Dru said, her eyes looking Xander over. "A tad early, I admit."
"A tad? They expected you sometime before dawn" Corie said dryly.
"I believe in being punctual" Drusilla said softly, a smile on her pretty face. Actually, she was paying them back for leaving her alone for those days. She so hated being alone.
Corie led Drusilla into the room. "Why don't you have a seat. William and the misses will be back soon."
"I know. I feel them" Drusilla reminded her with a smile. "Not too far away."
"How do you know the Rosens?" Faith asked, not seeing any immediate danger. If this was the evil, insane Drusilla, why was she sitting down and being polite?
Drusilla smiled, looking at the other slayer. "We are very close friends."
"Do you help them with their books?" Anya asked, curious despite the vampire's reputation.
"Not often. They don't need me for that." Dru said. She pushed her demon down as the blonde slayer looked at her. She wanted nothing more than to rip the girl's head off, but knew Willow and Spike would be angry. For them, she could be nice. She had been nice for the last eight and a half years, after all. This slayer would survive.
"What do they need you for?' Buffy asked, wondering who exactly these Rosens were. Drusilla as a close friend? The thought disturbed her. What bothered her even more was the glimpse of sanity she could see in the dark eyes that were watching her with restrained hate. Drusilla had changed, she knew instantly. What the hell was happening?
"You'd have to ask them that" Dru said softly, knowing she was going to be in enough trouble for arriving early. She wasn't about to ruin their surprise too. She settled back to wait. She could sense Spike and Willow coming up the walk way. Soon, all would be discovered. Then, maybe her Red could get some answers.
The door opened and Willow walked inside. She sensed Dru automatically, looking at Spike. "Great. Just great" she muttered, rolling her eyes at him.
He just shook his head, smiling at her. "Let's do this, ey pet?"
"Now or never" she said, taking his hand.
Corie heard the door and smiled at the others. "Everyone, the Rosens are here."
Drusilla was forgotten as Angel stilled, a slight smile crossing his face. It wasn't possible. Spike was here. He hadn't died. The others looked towards the doorway, waiting to meet the elusive author and his wife.
Spike and Willow walked into the room, ignoring the humans.
"Drusilla. You're early" Willow said, smiling at her friend.
Drusilla looked at her, "Sorry."
"Oh my god....Willow!" Xander said, standing. He rushed to her, taking her into his arms and hugging her tightly.
Willow frowned, not sure what to do. She looked at Spike, but he was no help. Just standing there with a smirk on his handsome face. "Xander. Let me go, please."
Xander reluctantly let her go, standing back to look at her. His smile faded as he saw the small changes. "No...not you..."
She smiled, "Not me what?"
He moved back to the couch, sitting down by a stunned Faith. "You're a vampire."
"No" Buffy said, shaking her head.
Willow glanced at her, taking in the changes in the blonde's appearance. "Yes I am."
Corie stepped forward, "If you'll excuse me, Willow. William. I'm heading upstairs. I'll see you in the afternoon."
"Night Corie" Drusilla said, smiling.
Angel looked Willow over, catching her eyes. He froze, a frown on his face. "You have a soul."
"Never lost it" Willow said, taking a seat next to Dru. She felt the other woman take her hand and smiled at her, "Rather glad you're early, Princess."
"What the fuck is happening?" Xander demanded.
Spike's eyes narrowed, "If you keep that attitude up, I can make you leave."
"Honey, shush" Willow said, looking at Spike. "They've just now learned we're still alive. We have had two weeks to get used to their being alive."
"Why wouldn't we be alive?" Anya asked, not sure what all the fuss was about. So far, Willow wasn't trying to kill them.
Willow looked at her, her eyes unreadable. "Good question. In fact, that's why we brought you all here today. I want some answers."
"WE want some answers" Spike clarified, knowing that they had better be good ones. His Willow had suffered thinking they were all dead. If they didn't meet his approval, he'd make sure they didn't leave alive.
"I must say, I'm a bit confused myself" Giles spoke up for the first time. "How about this. We provide answers to your questions so long as you give us answers to ours."
Drusilla laid back against the sofa, knowing it was going to be a long night. She saw Spike shrug at Willow and heard Willow agree to the arrangement. She waited, curious despite herself to know how they had survived what Willow had seen those ten years before.
Willow looked at them steadily. "We saw you die...that night. The four of you" she pointed out Anya, Giles, Buffy and Xander. "All dead. There was a demon. He said we were next. What happened?"
Buffy looked confused. "Dead?" Suddenly, a look of realization crossed her face, "The practice."
"Good grief. I thought Willow knew about that." Xander said, glaring at the slayer.
"No...the council only wanted to practice with four of us. I didn't want her to feel left out" Buffy trailed off. "My god. You found us after we lost one didn't you?"
"What practice?" Spike demanded. "You weren't part of the bloody council last I heard."
Giles spoke, "It was a test...to prepare us to face the demon. We lost several times, resulting in our death. But, we won in the end."
"We went to the dorm and you were gone. We were convinced that the real demon must have gotten you..." Buffy trailed off.
"Fuck. You mean, they thought we were dead all the time we thought they were? This is worse than a soap opera" Anya complained.
"That explains things" Willow said softly. She looked at Spike. "We ran too fast."
Spike ran a hand over her face, smiling softly. "Don't think I would have changed things, pet. I wouldn't."
"Me either" Willow said seriously. She looked at the others, "I thought all along that you all died. That he was hunting us. It wasn't until Corie got the call from Xander that I knew....." She turned her attention to her oldest friend, "You kept looking. Why?"
"I didn't feel like you had died" Xander said sadly. "I guess I was wrong...seeing as how you're a vampire now and all."
"That wasn't until I was 21" Willow said. "I lived two more years after we left. Running. Thank you for looking all these years."
He smiled, "I'm glad I found you....even if you are a vampire."
"Uh, excuse me. This is touching and all, but are you evil or not?" Cordelia demanded, wanting to know if she'd live to see the next day.
Willow made a face, "Always so tactful, Delia. Would have thought you'd have rid her of that, Angel."
"That poof? He couldn't rid anyone of anything luv" Spike said, amusement in his eyes.
"You should be talking" Drusilla muttered, knowing he was whipped as any man she'd ever seen and then some.
"Can it, Ru." He said crossly.
"I guess there are some things I need to explain now, huh?" Willow said. "The last ten years or so....well, things have happened. We never would have run if we hadn't seen the demon threaten us. Believe me on that. Now, I wouldn't change what happened. Not really. I love my life. I'm happy. I love Spike. If it hadn't been for that mistake, I may never have found him. So, I won't apologize for anything that has happened."
"Noted and written" Buffy said, having to smile. This seemed more like her babbling old friend. "So, what exactly happened? How DID you become this undead version we see before us?"
"I need a drink" Willow said, standing. "Anyone else want anything before we start? Ten years is a bit of time to cover..."
"Guess it's my turn" Willow said, making a face. She saw them watching her and rolled her eyes. "There isn't that much to tell."
"Come on Wills. You left ten years ago with a vampire that pretty much only tolerated all of us. You come back involved with said vampire, are a vampire yourself, seem pretty chummy with looney tunes over there, and you're a best selling horror author. I'd say there were plenty of holes to fill in" Xander said dryly.
"I resent being referred to as looney tunes" Drusilla said crossly. She whispered, "Can I please break his neck?"
"Ru, there will be no neck breakage. So, hush." Willow said. She looked back at her former friends. "Fine. Spike and I ran from here. We didn't settle anywhere in fear that the demon was trying to find us."
"Drove all over the states, didn't we pet?" Spike said, smiling fondly as he remembered their journeys.
"Yes we did." Willow kissed him swiftly before continuing. "We were in Philadelphia when Drusilla found us."
"What? She found you?" Buffy asked.
Dru nodded, "I had a vision. I came back here looking for my Spike. I heard rumors that he was dead, but I knew he wasn't."
"Dru is the only one that ever found us" Willow said, glancing at them. "That was after we'd been running for a year, I guess. Maybe a little longer. Anyway, she stayed with us. In a way, she became our protector. When it was the second year anniversary of your deaths, Spike and I had a bonding ceremony. We mated and I became a vampire."
"Ru had found a spell that would link us forever without Will having to lose her soul. One of the things I love about her is her soul so I was hesitant to let her lose that."
Dru snorted, "You were scared she'd leave your miserable ass if she was unsouled."
Spike grimaced, "Well, that too."
Willow smiled lovingly at him, "You always worry too much. Anyway, I became a vampire with a soul. We continued running another year before finally saying fuck it. We settled down in a small town in Montana. Bought a mountain."
"Got bored" Spike added. "Started writing."
"Sold our first novel and continued writing. The rest you know. We are one of the most popular horror novelists of our time. We have a wonderful home, great friends, and are very happy." Willow said, smiling.
"Why does Drusilla seem different?" Xander asked.
"I grew up" Dru said, again wishing she could break his neck. Nosy damn guy.
"She's still nutty as all get out, but she controls it a bit better. And, she dumped those silly dolls" Spike said.
"She is not nutty" Willow said, glaring at him. "She's just eccentric. She still has visions and because of Angelus's courtship, she isn't completely stable. But, she's my dearest friend."
"Nuts" Spike said softly, smirking at Willow.
"Well, that explains a bit" Giles said, still slightly confused. "But, why did Drusilla stay with you? Why not go off on her own again?"
"Bloody hell." Spike said, irritated. "Enough questions. Do you want to know what we had for breakfast too?"
"Spike. Calm down" Willow said, looking into his eyes. "Love you baby."
Spike smiled as he kissed deeply. He hated talking about the past especially to these whelps. Luckily, she knew that. She knew him better than he did sometimes. He heard the slayer clearing her throat and he deepened the kiss. Let them wait.
Buffy leaned back against Riley, her eyes watching Willow and Spike. She tried to remember ten years ago. At that time, she had suspected that the blonde vampire had a crush on her friend. Nothing had seemed likely to develop from it. Now, she was sitting opposite them. They had been together ten years already and seemed quite happy. She felt happy for her old friend. So much had happened. She honestly couldn't see Willow having made it through it all without Spike. For that, she owed him a great debt. "Ahem!"
Willow pulled back from Spike, her eyes glazed with passion. Turning to her guests, she smiled sheepishly. "Sorry. Uh, where were we?"
Spike kept his arm around her shoulders, his fingers lazily drawing circles on her arm. He put his head on her shoulder as he relaxed. His blue eyes watched the humans silently.
"Dru joining you two." Anya said.
"Oh yeah. Well, I don't know. She found us and just stayed. We needed her. She needed us."
"Couldn't get rid of the brat" Spike offered.
"Brat? Listen here you" Dru stopped as Willow gave her a warning look. "Fine. Whatever. See if I protect your skinny ass again, Blondie."
Angel noticed the slight changes in his children. There were some things he couldn't understand. He had to ask, "Why did Spike not want you to be soulless?"
Willow looked at him. Angel. Her grandfather. She felt the connection to him. Understood the pull. He was curious. She smiled slightly, "Don't any of you remember?"
"Remember what?" Giles asked.
"The bloody implant, that's what!" Spike said crossly. "Damn stupid piece of metal in my head that won't let me be normal."
"My god....you still have the implant?" Buffy said.
Spike moved his head long enough to glare at her. "Yes I still have the fucking implant. You're boy toy couldn't find out how to remove it, remember? Sort of left in a hurry too."
"Spike can't kill a human" Dru said, smirking slightly. "So, Willow needed me. Actually, they BOTH needed me. I was able to feed him before she was turned."
"She can also kick any humans miserable ass for me" Spike said, still glaring at their amused expressions.
"Things make more sense now" Giles said. "That explains the bonding ritual instead of a true turning."
"I can fight humans now...just can't kill the damn things" Spike said, a scowl on his handsome face.
"We were able to find a way to fix that part of the implant, but we couldn't remove it for fear of losing him. He can fight, he just can't kill." Willow volunteered to them.
"But, when I first found them, he couldn't even spit on a human without great pain" Dru pointed out sweetly. She received a growl from Spike. Laughing, she smiled, "So, I was the one they had to depend on. I think that changed me quite a bit."
"Amazing." Buffy said softly. "Damn, Willow. I am so glad to see that you're alive."
"I knew she was all along" Xander said, grinning smugly.
Willow looked at Spike and rolled her eyes, "Well, now that the answers are out of the way, why don't we eat. Corie arranged for something to be brought in for you. Shall we?"
"Let's go. I could eat a horse" Xander said, standing. He took Faith's hand and kissed his wife swiftly. He was so happy to have Willow back in his life.
"So, how long are you all staying?" Xander asked, his arm around Faith.
"Don't know" Willow said, shrugging. "We never plan things anymore."
"Got to finish the newest novel or Corie will kill us" Spike added, making a face.
"Oooh..a new one? What is it?" Anya asked, leaning forward eagerly.
"It's called Passionate Betrayal. It's almost done. Should be out in a few months...." Willow said, smiling at their attention.
"What's it about?" Buffy asked nonchalantly.
"We could tell you, but we'd have to kill you" Spike said dryly. Suddenly grinning, he added, "Oh, wait. Let me tell you all of it."
"Spike!" Willow said, hitting his arm. "He's right though. We don't tell. Of course...we may be able to get an advanced copy soon..."
"I'll be your best friend." Xander said, smiling. He couldn't believe his Willow was his favorite author.
"Seriously, when do you have to go?" Cordelia asked. She and Willow had never been very close, but over dinner she had seen someone that she knew she could be friends with.
"Hadn't planned that far in advance. A few weeks I'm sure" Willow said.
"You and Spike will have to come over for dinner and to meet the kids" Faith said, smiling. "Oh, and Dru of course."
Dru smiled slightly. They were including her. She rather liked that brunette slayer. The blonde girl was still nasty though. Dumb bitch had hurt her Angel. "Thank you."
"Speaking of kids, we'd better get going" Xander said, standing.
"Oh my. Look at the time" Buffy added. "We haven't been out this late in months."
"Not since Beth was born" Riley added, yawning.
"Guess we are getting old" Anya said, making a face.
"Don't talk to me about old" Giles warned, a smile on his face.
"Thank you so much for tonight" Buffy said, hugging Willow. "I'll call you tomorrow."
Willow said her goodbyes, surprised by how eager they were to hug her. She noticed the women hugging Spike too, who just glared at them all. "I'll be around for a bit longer....we can meet again."
"Bye" Dru said, waving.
"Thank god they're gone" Spike said, rolling his eyes.
"Oh, you know you enjoyed it. I can tell" Willow said, smiling at him.
"Whatever" he mumbled before grinning at her.
"You know" Dru said, "This is a great house....I almost hate to leave it..."
Willow looked at her surprised, "Are you suggesting what I think you're suggesting?"
"She's right, pet. You're happy. Not that you weren't always happy, but you're even happier....we can write from anywhere..." Spike said, kissing her cheek.
"Seriously? You two would be willing to move back to Sunnydale?"
"For you, luv? Hell yes" Spike said.
"I love you" Willow said, kissing him in lieu of answering.
Dru stood, knowing clothes would soon be flying. "I'm going upstairs to work on the last part of Betrayal."
"Hmhmsdf" Willow said around Spike's mouth.
Dru just laughed as she shut the door and headed upstairs. It was nice
to be home.
THE END