Chapter Twenty-Five- Tipsy

Buffy had drifted off against her will. She jarred back awake when a pounding hit her ears. As she was brought out of her groggy state, she realized that it was someone knocking on the door.

"Who is it?" the slayer called.

Out in the hall, the visitor timidly replied. "It-It’s me."

She instantly stood up. She went to the door and flung it open to come face-to-face with Alexis. The girl still looked worn-out, but she was fully alert.

"Would you like to come in?" Buffy questioned. She widened the entrance invitingly.

Alexis cautiously stepped into the dim bedroom. Her eyes landed on her future father’s form.

"Is he. . . Will he be all right?"

Buffy took a deep breath. "I hope so."

The teen hugged herself. She seemed cold and lost. "I’m sorry I lied." The words were soft. "I didn’t want to."

There was an awkward silence.

Buffy wondered what Alexis must be thinking right then. All the terrible things she had said about her pregnancy had to have hit the girl hard. Buffy felt absolutely guilty about that.

"I’m sorry too."

"For what?" Alexis asked, confused.
Buffy pulled Alexis into her arms. "For saying things I didn’t mean. I love you, Alexi. I’m so glad you were brought to us."

Involuntary tears sprung to Alexis’s eyes. She held her mother back hard. "I love you too . . . Mom."

***********************

Downstairs, Willow also opened a door to someone.

"Xander Harris, where have you been?" she demanded.

The man entered the house, offering a smile. "Hey, Will. Sorry I wasn’t around yesterday. I was sorta a busy bee."

"So were we. Everyone had to rescue Alexis and face the big bad."

Xander removed his jacket. He hung it up by the door.

"Wish I could have been there. Sounds like fun." There was no sarcasm in his voice. "And that’s saying a lot."

Willow frowned. "Where were you?"

His face darkened. "Oh, well, I was at Sunnydale Memorial with Anya for awhile watching my offspring on a screen. That wasn’t the bad part. The bad part came after."

The two friends went into the living room. They both sat down on the couch, facing each other.

"I can’t imagine what could be worse than facing a vampire and super-witch," Willow commented.

"This was far worse, let me assure you. I would have rather spent a whole day locked in a closet with Spike than have to do what I did yesterday."

Willow’s eyes enlarged. "Wow. So, what was the mega evil thing you faced? Don’t keep me in suspense."

He sighed. "My parents."

Instantly Willow understood. The Harris elders were a nightmare. She knew that as much as Xander. She must have come over a billion times, and each time she had been greeted with the sound of screaming. After moving out of the basement, Xander hoped that he would never have to see Mrs. and Mr. Harris again.

"So, I take it that didn’t go well."

"It was strange. I expected yelling and a big lecture. Instead I was greeted by two strangers. Sure, my mother was disappointed that I eloped, but she respected my decision. They even congratulated us on our future and children. I found out they are going to marital counseling. Dad is also a member of AA."

Willow blinked in surprise. "I don’t see the badness here."

"That’s just it. There wasn’t any. It was unnerving. Like my whole world had been shifted upside down."

"And you would have rather been in a battle? Or spent a day with Spike?" She laughed at how absurd it sounded.

Xander nodded. "At least I know what to expect in both cases."

"Xan," Willow said, putting her hand on his. "I’m gonna have to shift that world of yours a little off kilter again."

"Huh? What?" He groaned.

"Well, ya know Alexis?"
"Of course. How could I forget future-girl?"

"Well, you missed out on a lot yesterday. Let me fill you in."

***********************

White. That was the only thing Spike saw. It surrounded him in all directions, closing him in. It bathed him, physically warming him, and yet leaving him mentally cold. He knew what this meant and he didn’t want it. Not now. Please, not now. Not when Buffy needed him. Not when Alexis was growing inside her. Not when evil was after them both.

"Hello, William," a voice said. It was sweet and airy. It sounded feminine, but he wasn’t quite sure. Hell, maybe it was both.

Spike spun around. He didn’t see anyone.

"Where are you? Whose talking?" he demanded.

"I am all around you. I am the leader of this realm."

He suddenly felt faint. "Oh no. Bloody hell no! Don’t tell me I’m speaking with God."

There was laughter.

"What is so bloody hilarious!?"

"You think this is heaven, mortal?" the voice asked.

"I don’t know what to think. I must be dead. If I wasn’t I’d be back home with my slayer."

"Oh, but you are."

Spike’s face scrunched into a confused expression. "Don’t speak in riddles. I know that isn’t true. I can’t be in two places at once." He paused. "Although, my daughter seems to have managed it."

"This is an in-between world. Your mind and soul are here, while your body remains on earth. This place is neither heaven nor hell. Neither good nor bad. It simply serves as a sanctuary for those in wait."

"Wait for what?"

"Wait to see if they will return or move on."

"Oh, so I’m not dead then?"

"Not yet."

"Hey! So, you mean I might be soon?"

"I didn’t say that either."

A frustrated growl emerged from Spike’s throat.

"Stop! Just tell me if I am going to die or not!" Spike shouted.

Somehow Spike knew the owner of the voice was smirking.

"You may return, William. But you can’t the same way you left."

"What does that mean?" He breathed in deeply.

"Your essence was fractured by the dark witch. It was not molded properly when you changed and was easy to break apart. We must repair it."

"Oh, great. How long will that take?"

"Not long," the entity replied.

Spike nodded. "Right then. Do it and send me on my merry way."

"Are you not curious as to what mending your essence entails?"

"Not much as long as it gets me back to my slayer."

"Very well. I think I’ll tell you anyway."

Spike shook his head. Figures.

The voice continued, explaining the process. "We must bind your demon to the soul of William."

"Demon? I thought I lost that."

"No. The change made you human but did not destroy the demon. It simply let William into the driver’s seat. We have to get the demon behind the wheel as well to make you stable."

"Makes perfect sense now," Spike remarked with sarcasm. "Just do the bloody thing already."

"As you wish."

________________________________________

What do you think? Like the idea?


Chapter Twenty-Six- The Sun

Spike’s eyes shot open. He abruptly bolted upright, sucking in air. Buffy, who had her head lying on his chest, also jerked upright. The man looked around, taking in the closed blinds in a panic. Then his gaze met hers.

His blue eyes were filled with fright. He shivered.

The slayer wrapped her arms around him, holding him to her. "Spike," she whispered. "I thought you might never wake up."

"It’s so cold," he said, shakily. "So cold."

Buffy smoothed down his hair. She shushed him.

He violently shook his head. He pushed her away with unnatural force. It took her by surprise. She fell off the bed, but got to her feet without landing on the floor.

"Stay away!" Spike hissed. "You shouldn’t have to touch me."

"Spike, what is wrong with you?"

The lost look in his eyes had been replaced by wildness.

"I’m a monster."

Buffy blinked. "I don’t understand."

"I’m a vampire again," he told her. "They made me a vampire again."

Neither of them moved for what seemed like an eternity. Buffy stared at him hard. Finally she moved, going over to the window. She took the blind rod and let in streaming light from outside. She turned back to him, seeing that he had turned his head away.

"What is this?" she demanded. "You aren’t a vampire, Spike. I can sense vampires and you certainly aren‘t one."

He wouldn’t look at her. She sighed. She went to sit back down beside him. She took his hand and brought it to his chest.

"Your heart is beating."

Manic laughter spilled out of him.

"Stop it!" She wanted to slap him, but restrained herself.

His laughter quickly turned to tears. He crushed her to him.

"I thought. . ."

"But why?" she questioned.

"I’m so cold," he said.

She touched his forehead. A small smile played at her lips. "You have a fever. Probably the aftereffects of the power drain. You feel cold, but you are really burning up." She began to get up. "I’m going to bring you some medicine."

Spike grabbed her wrist. "Wait!"

Buffy stopped.

"Things are different. Why are they different? If I’m not a . . ."

She frowned. "What is different?"

"I can hear, Buffy. I can hear your heart. I can also hear Alexis’s heart. It’s thumping so fast. Babies do that right?"

She nodded. "Yeah. Babies do that."

"When I pushed you off the bed . . ." He swallowed. "I’m strong, luv. Didn’t you feel it?"

"I felt it."

***********************

Buffy ran downstairs to get the Ibuprofen. She was met by a myriad of questions by the group.

"He’s awake," she announced.

Dawn pointed to the bottle of medicine her sister held. "Is that for him?"

"Yeah. He’s got a slight temperature."

"But he’s okay?"

Nodding, the slayer said, "Yeah. He’ll be fine."

She couldn’t explain why he had super hearing or strength, but he seemed all right.

Alexis got up from her seat. "Can I see him?"

Buffy opened the bottle of Ibuprofen. She tipped it so that two tablets spilled out. She dropped them into Alexis’s palm.

"Get some water and take it up to him."

Alexis eagerly complied. She got a glass down and filled it with tap water. Then she hurried up to the second floor.

*************************
Alexis briefly paused before entering the room. It was illuminated by brilliant light that streamed in from outside. She couldn’t quite recall a day as bright as this one.

Her father sat propped up by a pillow, his gaze intently focused on the window. She hesitated, unsure of herself.

"Sp-Spike, Buffy asked me to give you these," she stammered.

He slowly turned his head. He took in the offered medication and water. He seemed to ponder a moment before accepting them.

"How are you feeling?"

Shrugging, Spike replied, "Not sure. Don’t know if what’s happened to me is a good thing, or bad thing."

She answered quickly without thinking. "It’s good."

He cocked his head to the side, an eyebrow raised. "That so? Do tell."

"Well, uh . . . I know what they did to you. Mom and Dad told me about it."

"Enlighten me then, pet, cuz I’m kinda fuzzy here."

"You were unbalanced. Celeste shattered your essence, but even before that you were unstable. The powers, or whoever, made it so that your demon and human self have equal dominion. So now you are kinda like a slayer. Ya know, extra strength and healing. Pretty cool, huh?" Her voice didn’t sound like it was pretty cool.

"It isn’t like bein a slayer at all," he said. "I can feel it in me. The demon." He scrunched up his face in confusion. "But it isn’t like before. It isn’t screaming inside me to let it out. It isn’t begging for a good kill."

Alexis forced a smile. "That is because you are balanced. Hello, have you been listening?"
Spike couldn’t help but crack a smile. He let out a laugh. This caused Alexis’s smile to turn into a genuine one.

"I guess it is a good thing," the ex-vamp remarked.

"Duh."

"I’m just not used to this oneness is all. My body is at peace, but my mind still needs some work."

There was a span of silence. Alexis was the one to break it.

"I’m glad you’re okay. Do you need anything else? Food? Hot chocolate? I think we have some little marshmallows."

"That’d be splendid."

She nodded. "Be right back, Spike."

She was about to leave, but he halted her with a shout.

"Wait!"

Alexis spun back around. "Huh? What?"

"Come here," he ordered.

The girl felt like she was eight again and was being scolded. She stepped over to the side of the bed.

"Don’t call me that," he told her.

She blinked, perplexed. What had she called him? Oh.

Alexis fell into his arms.
At first she had to force herself to call her parents by their first names. She was proud of herself for not slipping up. She had been doing it for so long now that it seemed natural. Reverting back to their rightful titles was difficult.

"I won’t again, Dad." she promised.

He pulled back to look at her. The light swam around her and he was overwhelmed by her beauty. Her mother and her were as radiant as the sun itself.

"I know, Sunshine."

"Sunshine?" Her eyes widened in shock.

"Yeah. You and your mum are my rays of sunshine."

Alexis stood up.

"What is it?" Spike questioned, slightly worried.

"Nothing. I just figured something out."

***************************

Giles was overwhelmed the second he walked in the door. He was surrounded by young people, all concerned for his welfare. Then he had to be filled in on Spike’s condition. After that was somewhat straightened out, Alexis came storming in. She grabbed his good arm and pulled him aside.

"Grandpa Giles, I figured something out," the teen announced.

"Grandpa . . .? Dear lord," he muttered.

Giles wished he could clean his glasses, but it was much too difficult of feat with one hand.

Alexis rambled on. "Spike and Buffy were supposed to find out about me. You, in the future, knew this because you remember it happening. But you also remember me telling you to keep it a secret at first. So, in order to keep the timeline the same you told me to not tell anyone about the future. It’s like a big circle. A future event causes a past event." She contemplated this. "Or a past event causes a future event. Anyway. . . Am I making any sense?"

"Strangely, yes. Buffy and Spike weren’t supposed to find out until it was time. I told you to keep things secret because that is what would keep the discovery from happening sooner; which might have caused a shift in history. Remarkable. How did you find this out?"

"Dad calls me Sunshine in the future. He never told me how or when he came up with the name. I just found out."

"Are you saying that Spike called you Sunshine today?" Giles asked.

"Yep. Upstairs. He thought up the name back here in 2001."

"This is quite fascinating."

"Yes, and quite confusing."

________________________________________________________

Be prepared for major Spuffy love-fest (of the NC17 variety)

Chapter Twenty-Seven- Something Red

Buffy took a long, refreshing shower. The hot water seemed to wash away all the anxiety she had been harboring for the past two days. Now that everything had settled down she could let herself relax. She took the soap and lathered her body. It was so soothing that she let out a moan.

She leaned against the wall and let the spray hit her full force. Her hands roamed to her middle, lingering there.

"It’s all right, Alexi. Everything is all right now," she whispered.

She almost expected her daughter to answer with a kick, but nothing happened. She was a little disappointed. The subtle fluttering yesterday had been the first sign of movement baby Alexis had given to the outside world.

When the water began to grow cold, Buffy reluctantly got out. She wrapped a white towel around her. It barely fit anymore. She frowned. It was about time to go shopping. She needed maternity clothes and larger towels.

She crept out of the bathroom and down the hall to her room. She opened the door and stepped inside. The only light came from the small bedside lamp. Spike lay under the covers, his eyes closed. He stirred, sensing her presence.

"Nice shower?" he inquired.

A smile formed on her lips. "Yep. Very revitalizing. I feel . . . energized. I could stay awake all night and do . . . things." Her smile turned into a smirk.

He sat up at that.

She slowly moved toward the bed. Her gaze scanned over his form. "Are you naked under there?"

He offered her a smirk identical to her own. "Might be. Why don’t you come find out?"

She went to him, hovering. Her hand slipped under the sheets. It groped, finding its target. She gave it a squeeze.

"Baby wants to play, does she? You’re a very bad girl, ya know slayer."

"When I want to be."

Spike grabbed her. He swung her on the bed, making her squeal. He tugged the towel away. Exposed, her green eyes sparkling up at him.

Warm hands slid over her still wet skin. "Luscious." He kissed her bulging belly.

"Don’t tease," Buffy said. "I’m fat and you know it."

"Nonsense. I love you like this," he replied.

"Like a beached whale?"

"Like the beautiful mother of my child you are. The bringer of life."

There was nothing she could think of to say to that. He saw her as some sort of life-giving goddess.

Spike took hold of her hips and spread them apart. He must have liked what he saw, for a look of triumph spread over his face. He bent down, his tongue delving into her. She let out a gasp, clutching the sheets.

"Oh God," she breathed.

He licked and sucked at her juices, his tongue moving just right. She squirmed in perfect torture. Finally she lost control. Spasms hit her in an explosion.

"Enjoy that, baby?" Spike asked.
Buffy couldn’t possibly tell him how much. So she simply nodded instead.

Spike shifted his attention to her breasts. They were fuller now and very delectable. He began to rub them. Then he bit down on a tender nipple.

Buffy could have lost all thought. She was tempted to let him ravage her, falling into oblivion. But this wasn’t supposed to be about her. She had decided that that night was for him. This was the night they would make love.

When Buffy halted his ministrations, Spike was confused. She stared up at him with a look he had never seen before. He furrowed his brow, trying to figure it out.

Buffy reached up and stroked the side of his cheek.

The slayer took charge. She traded positions with him, dominating the top. She explored his body, paying attention to every inch. She had always thought of him as remarkably good-looking. Yet she had never taken him all in. He wasn’t just good-looking- He was a god.

Buffy kissed his chest. She breathed him in. He smelled good. Not from cologne. No, Spike had his own scent. A scent all his own.

Meanwhile, Spike lay there, not daring to move. He couldn’t understand what was going on. Buffy had never acted this way before. She usually let him do most of the work. She had always hurried the business along too. Well, not so much the last couple months. Not since she had decided to try and love him. Still, this was different. She was extra attentive.

Spike studied his slayer with curiosity.

After absorbing the entire plane of him, Buffy lifted. Her golden locks spilled over her shoulder. Spike couldn’t help but comb his fingers through.

She fit between his legs, preparing herself. She got into place, his cock meeting her entrance. She slipped inside. She took her time, putting them in delicious agony. He filled her passage, going in deeper and deeper, until they were completely joined.

Buffy gyrated. In . . . out. In . . . out. Over and over. They rocked together in unison. Their breathing quickened. The world fell away, everything becoming a haze. There was only them.

In . . . out. In . . . out. In out. In out. IN OUT. IN OUT.

Their bodies merged together faster. Slamming together. It hurt. They ached with pleasure. Moans, cries, and groans escaped their throats.

Buffy could feel herself come to the edge. She was about to plummet. Her mind didn’t want to work. But as she came crashing down she was able to mutter a coherent sentence.

"I love you."

It was perfect timing. It made Spike lose control as well.

Clinging together, sweaty and sated, Spike met her eyes. He couldn’t believe it. That look. He knew now what that look meant. Love. It was love. For him.

"Let’s stay like this forever," Spike said.

"I wouldn’t mind, but can I say ewww. I just took a shower and am in definite need of another one."

"Just a wishful thought is all."

She smiled.

"So, did you mean it?"

"You don’t believe me? I love you, Spike. I really do."

He cupped her face. "I believe you, luv. Wanted to hear you say it again."

"I love you. I love you. I love you," she muttered repeatedly.

Spike silenced her with his mouth. Eventually he pulled away.

"So, you need a shower again." He waggled an eyebrow at her. "Need some company this time round?"

"That might be arranged," she answered.

A yawn hit her. "Or. . . Maybe in the morning."

"Sleep, pet. The baby’s asleep. Don’t want to wake her with the jostling. Besides, ya need your rest too."

Buffy snuggled against him. "Mmmm, I love you."

"Never get tired of hearing it," Spike told her.

"Good. Then I won’t stop saying it."

The room was quiet for a few moments. Buffy was beginning to drift off when Spike spoke.

"Marry me."

Buffy’s eyes shot open.

"What!?"

He lifted himself on an elbow.

"Marry me," he reiterated.

"You can’t be serious."

"Why not?"

He was completely serious. She could read it from his voice and his expression. He really wanted to marry her.

"I . . ." Buffy began. She couldn’t finish because she didn’t know what she had been about to say.

"Why shouldn’t we? I’ve been wanting to be your husband since the first moment I learned you were pregnant. Maybe it’s the Victorian William in me. Hell, even before that I would have tied the knot if I thought I had a chance. I’m human now, or at least mostly. You said that you loved me back. Everything that stood in our way is gone. So, Buffy Summers, I ask again. . . Marry me?"

"Oh my God!"

Buffy bolted up into a sitting position.

"Oh my God," she said again, this time softer.

Spike nodded his head. "It’s okay. Take your time answering. No rush."

The abrupt movement must have awoken the baby. Buffy felt a foot hit her inner wall.

"Oh my God," Buffy burst out again, but this time for a totally different reason.

She grabbed Spike’s hand and brought it to her stomach. Baby Alexis continued to kick, rippling her skin.

Spike froze, gaping at Buffy’s hand holding his in place over where their child dwelled. At first he couldn’t comprehend it all. And then the miracle of life hit Spike hard. Tears built up in his blue eyes. Spike, aka William the Bloody, cried from awe.
Buffy watched the whole display with an expanded heart. Spike looked like a child. He seemed innocent and anew.

A feeling rose up inside Buffy. It was one she couldn’t detect. It fore passed that of love. It went even deeper than that.

This was her family. Spike, the baby, and her. They were all connected. One.

"Yes," Buffy whispered.

Spike blinked, coming out of his daze. "What’s that?"

"Yes," Buffy said louder. She felt tears sting her own eyes. "Yes, I’ll marry you."

____________________________________________________

Chapter Twenty-Eight- Tender Loving

A few days went by. Alexis couldn’t believe the change she witnessed. Her parents had gone through a complete turnaround. They laughed together and couldn’t stop touching. It was actually pretty cute. They were in love and the whole world could see.

Tara and Willow were looking pretty cozy too. The blond witch came around more often. The two would sneak off to be alone. Alexis could only guess what for.

Alexis leaned against the island, watching Buffy and Spike. They were currently squabbling over dinner. She smiled at the scene. She was used to it back home.

"You heat the sauce last," Spike said. "The spaghetti and garlic bread take longer."

"Oh, and you know so much about cooking? You’ve been a vampire for over a century," Buffy threw back.

"I used to help out in the kitchen when I was a boy."

Buffy’s lips twitched and then became a full grin.

"What?"

She shrugged. "Just thinking of little Spike helping with supper. I bet you were adorable."

"My mum thought so," he replied. He reached out and tucked a lock of hair behind her ear. "I’ve seen pics of you, luv. You were a cutie."

"Pictures? When? Where?"

"Dawn showed me."

"Oh."

Spike ran a finger along the side of her neck. She tilted her head, savoring the sensitive sensation.

"Nothin’s changed. You are still a cutie," he whispered.

"Belly and all?"

His hand roamed to her middle and then to her hip.

"Every inch."

The heat grew in the room. Spike captured his slayer’s mouth. They hungrily explored each other with their tongues.

Alexis cleared her throat.

The two instantly split apart. They sheepishly looked over at their future daughter. They had totally forgotten that Alexis was standing there.

"You might want to stir the spaghetti," Alexis advised.

"Right," Spike said.

"Yeah," Buffy confirmed. She grabbed the wooden spoon and stuck it into the pan.

Dinner was pretty much uneventful. They had invited Xander and Anya over. Which meant that they had to deal with the ex-demon’s quirky remarks. She had gone off about how sex was different when you were pregnant. She said that it was more intense. Her husband had tried with little success to shift the conversation away from such things.

Spike offered to clear the table. He pecked Buffy on the cheek and told her to go relax. She went into the living room and plopped down on the couch. Her hand rested on her abdomen, which had become a habit as of late.
Alexis crept into the room just as Buffy grabbed for the remote control.

"What ya gonna watch?"

Buffy shrugged. "Dunno yet. Maybe there’s a movie on."

The slayer flipped through the channels until she saw something she liked. It was a romance, displaying a man and woman in a lip-lock.

"That’s so beautiful," Buffy whispered.

Her eyes were glistening and Alexis almost thought she might shed a tear. She’d never seen her mother like this. She wasn’t the type to get emotional over some sappy love scene. Must be the hormones, she thought.

They watched the movie to the end. It was your basic unbelievable happily ever scenario, but Buffy ate it up like chocolate.

"Oh wow!" Buffy exclaimed all of a sudden.

"What is it?" Alexis asked.

"She’s kicking. Hard," Buffy told her. She made a face of discomfort. "In the ribs."

Alexis stared at the spot where Buffy’s hand lay in alarm. Buffy rolled her eyes and took Alexis’s own hand. She placed it over her stomach.

"Oh my God!" Alexis burst out.

The vibrations under her palm were powerful. She could understand Buffy’s irritation.

"This is giving me the wiggins," Alexis stated, removing her hand.

Buffy didn’t get it at first. "I guess it is kinda weird. Having a living thing inside . . . Oh." Then she got it.

A laugh came from Buffy. "Our lives are really screwed up, huh?"

"Tell me about it. I’m here, but I’m also there."

"Yep, wiggy," Buffy agreed.

"Totally."

They both smiled.

"But it is kinda cool too." Alexis moved to replace her hand on her mother’s belly. "Dad always said I was a natural at kicking. Must be cause I practiced my moves even before birth."

************************

Buffy took a deep breath. She stared at the door before her, a little scared to knock. She had decided that day to go see Xander. He deserved to know about Spike and her future together first. She owed him that. It was only right since he was the last to know about her pregnancy. He had accepted that with reluctance. How would he react to her being linked to Spike for the rest of her life?

Images of Xander roaring with fury filtered into her mind. She took a step back, not quite sure she was ready for this. Before she could bolt, however, the door flew open.

"Buff?"

Xander stood before her. He greeted her with a huge grin.

"Were you going out?" Buffy asked.

"Just to get the mail. I can get it later. Come in." He cracked the door wider for her to enter.

Buffy took in the place. It was normally clean, but never this clean. Everything was perfectly in place.

"Squeaky clean," Buffy commented.

Xander chuckled. "Oh yeah, An’s on this cleaning spree."

"I know the feeling. I don’t know how she managed to get things this tidy, though. Every time I straighten something somebody messes it right back up. It’s an ever ending battle. One I can‘t win."

Xander went to grab a beer out of the fridge. "I’d offer you one, but . . ." He gestured to her bulging middle.

"Thanks, but even if I wasn’t like this I’d decline. Alcohol and Buffy equal badness."

The two friends settled on the couch. Xander twisted the cap of his bottle before taking a long swallow.

"So, what brought you by?" Xander asked. "Any reason or just to hang?"

Buffy wanted to tell him right then, but she chickened out.

"Just wanted to see you. How is my Xander?"

"I’ve been good. Anya and I are moving."

Her eyes enlarged. "Moving? Where? Better not be Mexico or someplace far away. I think I might miss you."

"Don’t worry," he assured her. "No Mexico, mi amigo. It’s only four miles from here."
"When did you decide this?"

"Three days ago. We can’t raise a child in this place. Anya insists on a yard and I agree. A kid has gotta have room to play." He smiled. "And a dog. We want a dog."

"I’m so happy for you. Things sound like they are going well."

"They are," Xander replied. He leaned toward her. "So, are things going well with you too? How are you and dead boy working out?"

Buffy shifted. Now, she thought. I have to tell him now.

"Good."

Coward, Buffy silently scolded herself. Continue. But she didn’t.

"Oh, so you aren’t on the verge of kicking him out then? Bummer. I was hoping." His tone was teasing.

"Sorry to disappoint. He’s been on good behavior. Except he keeps leaving the toilet seat lid up. Ugh, that is so annoying!"

"Give me an estimate, Buffy. What is the probability of you breaking up?"

"Zero," she answered truthfully. She breathed in deeply. "I love him."

Silence.

She forced herself on. "And we’re getting married."

Xander choked on his beer. He had a massive coughing fit. It took him over a minute to calm himself.

"Married? As in husband and wife? As in Mrs. William the Bloody?"

"Yes, husband and wife. And it’s Mrs. Shayne."

Xander shook his head. "You’re serious about this?"

"Yeah. I am. I really am. I wanted you to be the first one to know."

There was a pause.

"Congratulations," Xander finally said.

Buffy blinked, not sure she heard him right. "Huh?"

"Congratulations," he repeated.

"That’s it?" That couldn’t be it. How could he be so calm?

"I knew it was coming, Buffy. I mean, come on, Alexis talked about her parents. Which are you guys. I kinda knew you’d probably get hitched. I like to be denial guy, though."

"So you’re okay with this?"

"I don’t like it," he admitted. "But I won’t stop you. I’ll stand by you, even if I hate it."

"Thanks." She gave him a hug. "Aw, I love you."

"I love you too, Buff."

They parted.

"Normally I don’t commend divorce, but I’m all for it in this case. If he does one thing to hurt you. . . "

Buffy nudged him playfully.
At that moment Anya walked in. She carried two plastic bags, which she set down on the kitchen table.

"There was this huge sale," she announced. "Lots of bargains. I got tons of things for my money." She said this with more pride than was normal.

Anya noticed Buffy. "Oh hello, Buffy. You should check it out. It’s at that shop by the bookstore. They don’t have any baby things, but I got some pretty stuff for our new home. Did Xander tell you about our new home?"

"Yeah, he did."

"I’m so excited. It’s two stories and . . . " Anya snatched the Heineken cap off the coffee table. "Xander Harris, I told you not to leave trash lying around."

"I was gonna throw it away," Xander told her. "I just hadn’t gotten around to it."

"Do it first thing," Anya instructed. "Otherwise you might forget. We have to learn good habits to teach our son."

"It’s a boy?" Buffy inquired. This was new news for her.

"Oh, yeah. It’s a strapping young man."

"What?" Anya complained. "It isn’t a man, it’s a baby. And he certainly isn’t ‘strapping’ yet."

"He will be," Xander assured his wife.

Anya sat down in the recliner, putting her feet up. She let out a contented sigh.

"Buffy, why are you here?" she frankly questioned.

"Oh, I came over to visit."

"And tell us that she’s getting married," Xander added.

"Married? How sweet. To who?" Anya said.

Buffy rolled her eyes. "Spike, duh."

"Well, you can’t always assume. I hope your wedding is beautiful and doesn’t get messed up."

"Errr. . . Thanks."

"Keep it small. Or elope," advised the ex-demon.

"Thanks, Anya. I’ll think about my options."

*********************


The next day Buffy and Willow had plans to go baby shopping. The witch didn’t show up that morning, though.

Buffy sat down at the table, a plate of Eggo waffles in front of her. Dawn sat across from her. Willow usually made breakfast. She was the only one in the house who could really cook. Well, except Spike. He could make a decent meal, but didn’t have a lot of initiative to do so.

"Any idea as to where she is?" Buffy asked.

A bright smile formed on her sister’s face. "I think she mentioned going out with Tara."

"And she never came home?"

"Nope. Isn’t it cool? Them being back together?"

Buffy nodded. "I’m glad."

"And you and Spike. I’m seeing some warm fuzzies that weren’t there a few days ago," Dawn said.

A dreamy expression came over the slayer. "Definite fuzzies. Of the all over kind."

"Awww. All this love in the air makes me want to have some of my own."

"Not yet. You are too young for a serious relationship."

"What!? You were dating Angel at my age. Heck, you slept with Angel at my age."

"And it ended badly. ‘Badly’. As in I almost died badly. Sex is evil."

"Oh yeah?" Dawn said dubiously. "So what were you and Spike doing last night? Having a contest to see who could moan the loudest?"

Crimson spread across Buffy’s face. "It is when you don’t know the person."

"You didn’t know Angel?"

"Well, I didn’t know he had a tendency to convert into a psychopathic killer."

"Gotcha. I can still date, right?"

"But no falling in love," Buffy ordered.

Dawn saluted her. "Aye aye, captain."

Just then Willow stepped into the dining room. She was practically glowing.

"Hey guys."

"Willow, where’ve you been?" Buffy asked.
"As if we have to ask," Dawn said. "You were at Tara’s right? All night?"

Willow’s grin grew even larger. "Is it that obvious?"

Both girls spoke simultaneously. "Yes!"

"All right. All right. Yes. I was at Tara’s. All night."

"That’s great, Will," Buffy told her best friend.

"I know."

"So, are you still wanting to go out?"

Willow’s green eyes widened. "Shopping! Oh, I forgot. Yeah, I’m ready to spend some green stuff."

************************

They went to a store called Babies Unlimited. It had a lot of cute stuff for infants to three-year old toddlers. There was also a section for expectant mothers. That was where Buffy headed first, set on getting some new maternity clothes.

"Oh, Buffy, you have to get this!" Willow exclaimed.

Buffy looked over to see an excited red-head. Her friend was holding up a frilly pink dress.

Buffy looked doubtful. "That isn’t a newborn’s dress."

"Um, no. It’s for twelve months. But it is so cute. You have to get it! NO, I have to buy it for you!"

Buffy reluctantly gave in. If Willow was willing to buy things for her daughter then why not? It would have been fine if that was ‘all’ Willow wanted to buy. It wasn’t. Willow kept finding more things she wanted to get for baby Alexis. When Willow put an eighth thing in the cart Buffy had to stop her.

Holding out a hand, Buffy said in a commanding voice, "Stop right there!"

Willow halted.

"I know you are really getting into this. I can see how much you are enjoying yourself. But stop."

"Why?" Willow looked disappointed. She reluctantly put the stuffed lamb back on the shelf.

"I appreciate the offer, Wills, but you can’t empty your wallet for my kid. You are going overboard. You are more into this than I am. And I’m the mother," Buffy pointed out.

Willow nodded. She sighed. "I know." Her eyes lost their sparkle and became pained.

Buffy bit her lip. She didn’t understand what was up.

"What is it?"

Willow raised her head. Tears were threatening to fall. "I am just kinda envious. I mean, you are going to have a baby."

Surprise filled Buffy. "You want a baby?"

"Yeah," Willow admitted. "I know it isn’t possible, but. . . I want a little person to dress up and tell stories to. I’m a little jealous. I know it is wrong, but I can’t help it. You’re going to be a mommy and I am never going to be. So, can’t you let me be Aunt Willow, who spoils my niece rotten? Please. It isn‘t what I want, but at least it is something."

Buffy put an arm around Willow.

"Oh, Will." She felt so much empathy right then. Poor Willow.

Willow sniffed.

"There are options. What about artificial insemination?" Buffy suggested.

"I don’t know," Willow said, unsure. "I don’t know how Tara would feel about that. And it is kinda ewww. I mean, some weird guy’s sperm inside you. Makes me want to shiver at the thought."

Buffy had to agree.

"Adoption?"

Willow gave a small smile. "I might consider that." She let out a dramatic sigh. "But not today. Tara and I are just getting back together. We aren’t ready to think about stuff like that yet."

Buffy smiled.

"I’m still envious, though," Willow added.

Buffy shook her head. "The lamb. But ‘that’ is it."

Willow grinned and placed the lamb in the cart.

___________________________________________________________

Chapter Twenty-Nine- Fatal Premonitions

Susan Dobson had a bad feeling all morning. She was sure something bad was going to happen. She wouldn’t leave her seven-month-old daughter’s side for even a second. She begged her husband, Rick, to stay home that day from work. He told her she was being silly and went anyway.

Rick called during his break to check on his family. His wife told him that nothing had happened, but that her dire inkling wouldn’t go away. He reassured her that everything was fine and that he would be home in a few hours.

The remaining time at Lake City Bank went smoothly for Rick. He opened a couple new accounts and signed up someone for a debit card. He headed home in good spirits, confident that everything would be fine when he returned to his wife and child.

He whistled a tune as he walked up the driveway. He opened the door and stepped inside the house. He stopped dead in his tracks.

There on the usually pristine white carpet, was red. Not the red from Kool Aid. This was a trail of blood. It led into the kitchen.

Rick’s heart seemed to jump from his chest. He rushed into the kitchen.

What he found made his eyes widen in horror. Susan was crumpled on the tile, unmoving. The phone was off the hook, fallen to the floor next to her.

Rick went to her side and turned her over. The side of her neck was torn open. Blood trickled from the wound. She must have crawled her bleeding body from the living room. He took a hand and checked for a pulse. To his relief he found one. It was faint, but it was there. Thank God.

He grabbed a rag and placed it to the injury. He pressed at it with pressure, praying that it would stop the flow. He reached for the phone to call an ambulance.

A hand clamped around his arm. It startled him and he dropped the receiver.

Rick looked over toward Susan. Her eyes were wide open.

"Susie!" he exclaimed.

"Q-Quiet," she begged him softly.

He stroked her cheek. His brown eyes threatened to spill over with tears. "God, Suse, I was so worried. You’re going to be fine. Just let me call for help." He moved to grab the phone again, but his wife stopped him.

Susan shook her head. "No, you can’t!"

"Why?"

"They’ve got her," she rasped.

"Who? Who has who?"

"Our daughter," Susan informed. "They’re downstairs. They think I’m dead. They can’t know you are here. Go, leave. Go get help."

"That’s what I’m trying to do. The ambulance and the police. . . "

"Can’t know. This is . . . They’re . . . Monsters."

Incredulous, Rick said, "Monsters?"

"He bit me. He had fangs. And the other one. . . Nothing I’ve ever seen. Monsters."

Rick smiled down on her. "You’re hurt. People hallucinate when. . ."
"No!" Coughs took her over.

"Susan?" Rick was scared again. He needed to get help. Fast.

Susan’s grip tightened. "There isn’t much time. You must stop them. They said something about tomorrow night. They want to do something called The Ritual of Bound Destruction. And the slayer. Find her. She is important. The one whose face changed. . . " She winced in pain. "H-he mentioned her. She’s special. She is the only one who can hel . . ."

"Susan!?"

Susan gasped for air. Her body began to convulse.

"Susie!" His voice was desperate.

"Find. . ."

Susan went still. Everything was still. The only sound that hit Rick’s ears was the dial tone of the fallen phone. He clutched his dead wife to his chest and closed his eyes in agony.

All of a sudden there was a jarring cry from below. Rick shot straight up. A baby. The bastards Susan had told him about were in the basement with his daughter.

Rick made his way to the basement door. His fingers curled over the knob, about to turn. He froze. Monsters. Susan’s words echoed in his mind. They’re monsters. Find her. She is the only one who can help.

Rick fled the house in search of the slayer.

**************************

Buffy was behind glass. The clear wall separated her from a basement. She watched the scene before her with hopeless desperation.
A demon was hovering over a baby. The child was lying on a table, naked and cold. A vampire was nearby, chanting ancient words.

The baby wasn’t hers. It had piercing emerald eyes that stared right at her. They were pleading with her for aid. Not her baby, but important just the same. She wanted to help. She needed to help.

Buffy pounded on the glass. She had slayer strength but she still couldn’t break it. Tears streamed down her cheeks. I’m sorry, she thought. I’m so sorry.

The baby cried in pain as the vampire’s chanting intensified. From faraway Buffy could hear another infant cry out. Then it turned into a scream of a much older individual. Female and familiar.

"Alexis!?" Buffy called.

************************

Buffy shot up in bed. She was sweaty and her heart raced a mile and minute. Strong arms encircled her shoulders.

"Bad dream, ducks?"

Those English accented words were rich and soothing. They almost comforted her. Almost.

"Yeah, bad dream." She took in a deep breath. "That’s all."

She hoped so.

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