Chapter 18

"Joan?" Buffy offered.

Spike snorted. "Bloody well not!"

"Why? I think Joan is a nice name." Buffy pouted.

"Yeah, if you’re normal girl, which the baby is not." The last part was said with emphasis.

Buffy sighed. She flipped through the book, scanning down the lists of names and their meanings. There were so many, there had to be one Spike and she could agree on.

"Anne?" Buffy suggested.

"Right good for a middle name. But not for a first. No, our kid deserves something special."

Buffy thrust the book at him with frustration. "Here, you find one that suits your standards!"

He chuckled and began searching through the Baby Names paperback. Buffy watched him for a few moments, soon becoming bored. She leaned back against the headboard of his king-sized bed. She slid her hand over the silken sheets. The sensation brought many naughty thoughts. She squirmed. She looked back over at Spike. He was so engrossed in the book that he didn’t notice. She licked her lips.

"Dawn!"

"Huh? It can’t be dawn. Last time I checked it was only ten PM," Buffy said, furrowing her brow.

"No, for a name. Dawn," Spike enforced.

"Oh. Hmmm, Dawn. I like it," she said.

He grinned. Oh, he had a cute smile when it was sincere.

"It’s perfect. She fills me with warmth like the sun," he explained.

On cue, baby Dawn began to kick at Buffy’s ribcage. Buffy pressed her palm against the rhythm. Spike watched the ripples and then put his hand over the spot as well. The kicks grew more intense.

"Do you think she understands what is going on out here?" Buffy asked.

"I wouldn’t be surprised. We’re both pretty smart," Spike said.

"You think I’m smart?"

"Course."

She smiled. On impulse, Buffy tilted her head to lie on his shoulder. She moaned in contentment. She felt him stiffen and she wondered why.

"Buffy, what is this between us?" he questioned.

She lifted her head to look at him. "I don’t know." Then she said more softly, "But I’d like to find out."

He nodded, accepting the answer for now.

Buffy yawned. "I think I better get home. Would you mind walking me home?"

They both knew that he would have insisted on walking her home for her safety. The fact that she asked for his company meant something.

"Sure, pet."

They were silent for half the walk. She grabbed his hand as they exited the cemetery. He glanced over in amazement.

"Do you want to go shopping with me tomorrow?" Buffy blurted.

"Whot? Why are you asking me to go to the mall with you? Wouldn’t Red be a better choice to gawk at shoes, makeup, and all the other tidbits you bints have far too much of already?"

Buffy laced their fingers. "Not the mall. I was going to shop for baby things. It occurred to me that I don’t have that much longer to get ready. I need to start fixing up a nursery."

"Oh. All right then. What time were you thinking?"

"How about when the sun goes down tomorrow night? You can meet me at my house. I’m sure my mom would be glad to see you."

"Sounds all right."

"Okay," she said brightly.

They came to a halt at the edge of her driveway. It felt weird yet nice to be this close to Spike. She was trying for the sake of their daughter to see if a relationship could work out. Surprisingly, she found that she actually ‘wanted’ it to. She wasn’t big on the touchy-feely that went with getting to know each other. She squeezed his hand before awkwardly letting go.

She looked down at the pavement. "I’ll, uh, see you tomorrow."

"Yeah. Right," he said.

She quickly headed inside. She felt his presence lingering out near his favorite tree. She went up to her room and looked down from the window. He gazed up and smiled before turning away.

+ + +

Joyce opened the door with a smile. "Why hello, Spike. Come in. I’ll go tell Buffy you’re here."

Spike stepped into the house. He stuffed his hands into his duster pockets. He waited by the door and watched Mrs. Summers go upstairs to fetch her daughter. After a few moments Joyce returned.

"She’ll be down in a minute," Joyce said.

Spike nodded.

"You should come around more often," she added.

He hated to tell her that Buffy had revoked his invitation. Joyce probably would have asked why, and then that would have started a whole big mess he didn’t want to get into. Better to appreciate the good happenings of the moment and forget the past.

"Buffy told me what happened with Glory. I want to thank you for what you did," Joyce sincerely said. "How are you feeling?"

He smiled. "Almost all patched up."

"I’m glad to hear that."

Their conversation was halted by footsteps. The vampire looked up to see Buffy at the top of the stairs. For a human the sight of her would have caused their breath to stop, for him it caused his to start. She looked . . . Was their a word to describe it? Ravishing? Glorious? . . . Effulgent? She wore a pastel colored flower skirt and white top that didn’t hide but rather complimented the protruding of her middle. Her makeup was subtle and made her face glow with radiance. Her hair seemed extra golden and laid over her shoulders in waves.

Did she purposely get dressed up for him? Was this a date? Nah, couldn’t be. Could it?

Buffy descended the stairs with a smile. She looped her arm with his. She leaned over and whispered in his ear," Let’s get out of her before my mom sees your. . . predicament."

He looked down and his eyes widened. He was hard. He had been so wrapped up in her beauty that he hadn’t felt it. He hit his crotch with the material of his coat. She giggled.

"Bye, Mom," Buffy called.

"Have fun," Joyce replied.

+ + +

And they did. Buffy discovered that they had similar tastes when it came to baby items. They picked out sun and moon crib sheets, cute girly clothes, and even a few toys. Spike made her stop to play the X-Box in Kay B Toys. They battled in some karate combat game. Buffy won the first round. Spike didn’t take defeat well. He demanded on a rematch, where he did win. Buffy then insisted on best out of three. The third turned out to be a tie of all things. They both laughed at the irony.

They stopped at Dairy Queen to get ice-cream. Buffy had the craving for something really chocolately. She ordered this oreo cookie dessert that was delicious. As she eyed Spike eat his own treat she had the urge to have a taste. She got up and went around sit next to him on his side of the booth. He raised his eyebrow in confusion. She leaned over and kissed him. She delved her tongue in his mouth, swirling it around to every corner.

When she pulled back she said," Mmm, tasty. I’ve never had a snicker blizzard."

Their last stop was a furniture store. They went over to the crib section and surveyed them all over.

"How bout this one?" Spike suggested.

Buffy shrugged. "Okay."

They all seemed the same to her. The one Spike preferred had a changing table that would come in handy, though.

"Oi, miss, do you have one of these boxed up?" he called to a sales clerk.

The clerk retrieved a box and they paid for it with Joyce’s credit card. Spike hoisted the box up into his arms. He offered to take it out and then bring the car around for Buffy.

"You have a sweet husband," the cashier commented. "I’m lucky if mine puts down the toilet seat."

"Oh, he’s not my husband." She paused. "Yet."

Spike was about to the electronic doors by then. He might not have heard her statement. She hoped with his vampiric hearing that he had.

+ + +

Anya came up from the cellar with a mummy hand. She turned it over to the customer, looking very pleased with herself. Xander giggled.

"What?" Buffy asked.

"Cellar door," he mumbled with a mouthful of donut.

"Huh?"

He sat up straighter in his seat. "It’s from this movie, Donnie Darko. It’s about this guy who sees weird stuff and . . . Hey, why don’t you come watch it tonight?"

Buffy shifted in her seat. She shut her new mothers magazine. "Uh, not tonight."

Xander frowned. "Why not?"

"Because I’m going over to Spike’s tonight."

His eyes bugged out. "You are telling me that you are turning down a movie night in a warm apartment to go see some vampire in a dank hole?"

"-Yeah." She bit her lip.

He just stared.

"I’m thinking of dating him," Buffy spilled.

Xander kept staring.

Anya skipped over. "Oh, congratulations. I’m so happy that things are working out for you."

"Th-Thank you," Buffy said.

Both women turned their eyes to fall on Xander. His mouth opened and closed like a fish. Buffy took in a deep breath and waited.

"Are you. . .? How . . .? I thought . . .?" Xander sputtered.

Anya frowned at her boyfriend.

Xander sighed. "Okay."

Now it was Buffy’s turn to do the fish expression. "Okay?"

Xander nodded. "Y-Yeah. Just don’t expect me to do my snoopy dance over it."

Buffy gawked.

Anya went over and kissed Xander on the nose before going back to stand behind the register. Xander mumbled a goodbye, got up, and left the store. He looked like he was in pain.

Buffy got to her feet and walked over to the counter. "Anya, what was that about?"

The woman grinned. "You owe me. A really good birthday gift maybe. I just saved you a lot of grief."

"I’m with the huh? How?" Buffy asked.

"I know you and Spike have been spending a lot of time together recently. It was no mystery that you’d end up as a couple. I told Xander but he denied it. I convinced him I was right and he was about ready to go stake Spike. I mean really dust him."

Buffy felt her heart squeeze. "How’d you stop him?"

"I warned him that if he did do away with Spike that I’d leave him. I also mentioned that you’d never forgive him."

Buffy gestured to the table. "So back there, before, that was your doing? Xander handled my confession so well because you threatened to break up with him?"

"Pretty much," Anya said.

The ding of the bell over the door alerted that another customer had entered. Anya perked up. "I have to go help the people with money. Why don’t you leave, be grateful, and ponder over what you can get me for my birthday? Something large and expensive."

Buffy left the shop, shaking her head. She really did owe Anya one.

________________________________________________

Chapter 20

The slayer was one for action. They made decisions quickly and made them without hesitation. At that moment, however, Buffy couldn’t move. She remained frozen, petrified. All she could do was clutch at her stomach, the thin layer of skin that wasn’t enough protection to her child. It’s over. It’s over. It’s over. . .

She never heard Willow chant something in Latin. Or see when the witch held out her hand. Glory was thrown aside into the bushes.

“Buffy, run!” Willow shouted.

Buffy blinked.

“Buffy, move!”

Coming out of her daze, Buffy took in the situation. She took flight and sprinted out into the dorm hallway. There were students all over. They glanced up in curiosity as she passed. Some got in her way and Buffy pushed them aside. She made it to the front doors and crashed through. She crossed the lawn, heading toward the road. An uncomfortable clench in her belly made her slow. The sporadic, occasional pains were becoming not so sporadic or occasional. But she didn’t have time to contemplate what that meant. No. She shook her head. She had to keep moving.

As soon as she made it to the edge of the street Glory popped up in front of her. The goddess put her hands on her hips. She stared down at Buffy as if she were a pesky ant that she needed to squish with her heel.

“You can run but you can’t hide. I’ll always catch up,” Glory declared.

Buffy prepared herself for what was to come.

“Any last words?”

“Just one. Truck,” Buffy said.

The semi stampeded into Glory’s form. The goddess flipped and landed on top of it. Buffy took the opportunity to flee the scene. She rushed all they way to Xander’s apartment. It was the closest Scooby haven.

She banged frantically on the door. Her friend opened it and she barreled in, breathless. He held her shoulders, taking in her state with concern.

“Buff, what happened?” Xander inquired.

She leaned into him. “Glory.” It was all she had the energy to get out. He led her to the couch. She collapsed on the cushions.

“We have to get everyone together,” Buffy instructed. “Call Giles. Is Anya at the shop?” At his nod, she went on. “Call her too. And contact my mom. Tell her to pack a bag. Willow and Tara might be there. Or they’re on their way here, I don’t know.”

Xander rushed off to do as she commanded. Buffy leaned her head back and moaned. She was drained and her muscles ached. She didn’t know how much longer she’d be able to hold up.

An hour later everyone was gathered. Buffy stood before them. She felt as if she might collapse but she kept the façade of commander well.

“Honey, what is this all about?” Joyce asked gently from her seat in the recliner.

Buffy stared out the window. “Glory knows about the key. I barely got away. A truck hit her. Couldn’t have slowed her down more than a few seconds.”

“But the important thing is that you are safe,” Giles said.

Buffy spun around. Fire burned in her eyes. “Safe!? We've barely been able to manage not getting seriously dead every time we've crossed paths with Glory. Now that she knows that my baby is the key?”

“Piano!” Anya exclaimed.

“Because that’s what we used that one time to . . . Wait, huh?” Xander swiveled. “Ahn, what are you talking about?”

“We should drop a piano on her. Well, it always works for that creepy cartoon rabbit when he's running from that nice man with the speech impediment.”

Giles rolled his eyes. “Yes, or perhaps we could paint a convincing tunnel on the side of a mountain. Let's just keep thinking, everyone. “

“We can’t fight her,” Buffy lowly said.

“Well, not yet. But in a matter of time –“

“No, never,” Buffy countered. “Spells, stakes, or even rocket launchers aren’t going to beat this one. She’s a god and she’s coming for us. So I think let’s not be here when she comes knocking.”

“Run away?” Anya voiced. “Finally a decent plan.”

“That’s not what she meant,” Xander said. “Was it?”

“Of course not,” Willow replied.

“Yes it was,” Buffy said with emotion. “It’s the only thing we can do. She’s going to knock us down one by one until she has me snatched up. And who knows what she’ll do with Dawn then. Probably rip her right out of me.” Buffy’s lip wobbled. She covered her mouth with her hand and fought the stinging in her eyes.

“Buffy, we all understand the severity of the situation, but there must be another way,” Giles said.

She shook her head. “We stay and we die. Show of hands for that scenario?”

The group remained silent.

“Gather only what we need. We’re gone within the next two hours.”

For a moment no one moved. Then they began to disperse. Joyce stood up and approached her daughter. She laid a hand on her shoulder. Buffy jumped at the touch.

“Buffy,” Joyce gently said. “We need to contact Spike.”

Buffy nodded. “I’ll take care of it.”

+ + +

Buffy knew Xander was sulking. It must be killing him not to throw Spike out of the Winnebago and out into the sunlight. He kept shooting the vampire death glares but somehow stayed good.

Buffy studied the map before her. Where to go? She’d always wanted to see Canada. But was that far enough? Was China even far enough? Somehow she felt like she wouldn’t even be safe on Mars.

Suddenly something ran over her back. She looked over to find Spike next to her. His presence eased her heart a fraction.

“You look knackered, luv. Why don’t you go in the back and rest?” he suggested.
“I can’t,” Buffy said. She looked back at the map. Spike turned her head toward him once again.

“Take a break, Buffy. You need your energy for whatever’s ahead of us.”

A bump in the road made the vehicle jostle. Tara whimpered and Xander groaned. His complexion was greenish and she wouldn’t have been surprised if he spilled his breakfast all over their shoes. She wondered if it was motion sickness that had overcome him or the sight of Spike and her proximity.

“Spike is right,” Joyce urged. “You have to keep your strength up.”

Buffy glanced from her mother to Spike and back again. They were very firm over the matter. She knew she wouldn’t win against them both. She reluctantly got up.

“That’s my girl,” Spike said.

His girl? Her lips twitched.

She went into the back and shut the sliding door. She took in a deep breath. Then she curled up on the tiny couch. She winced as a sharp spasm spread through her uterus. She pressed against the spot and felt that it had grown hard. She whimpered. The sensation eased and she closed her eyes. Eventually she escaped the tornado that threatened to suck her in.

+ + +

The giggling was musical. Buffy stretched out her form on the lawn chair and moaned in contentment. It was the perfect day. Fluffy white clouds dotted the bright blue blanket above.

“Buffy, you’re going to roast out here if you stay much longer.”

The rich British voice made her turn. She shielded her eyes. He stood on the porch in the shadows.

“Come join us, Spike,” Buffy called.

“Yes, daddy, come join us!”
The little girl was beautiful. Her brown pig-tails bounced as she ran around the back yard. Her blue eyes sparkled with excitement.

Spike hesitantly stepped out into the sun. He came to a halt before Buffy. She gazed up at him and for some reason didn’t question the fact that he didn’t burn. She reached out and took his hand, bringing him down to her.

Things were perfect.

+ + +

“Kitten?” Spike whispered. He stroked her hair.

Her eyes shot open. Her green eyes landed on his face. He sat beside her on the tiny couch.

“Sorry to wake you. Anya is going to try fixing some lunch. I thought you might be a tad peckish for something.”

Buffy slowly sat up. The air seemed thick, closing in on her. She wanted to go back to her dream world where everything was perfect.

“What do you say? Spam?”

Ugh, spam sounded awful. Consuming anything at the moment sounded awful. She felt sick. She stiffened. No, not again. This time it hit her harder and she doubled over. Spike perked up. He reached over and put his palm over her stomach. His nostrils flared.

“You’re rock hard, slayer!”

His voice did nothing to help her state. She tried to control her breathing as the contraction ran through her. It was the longest one yet. Not a good sign.

“Were you going to let us in on this turn of events?” Spike demanded.

“It’s nothing to worry about yet,” Buffy said.

“Nothing to worry about!? You’re in the first stage of labor!”

Oh God! Why did he have to say that out loud? The confirmation made it all too real. She wasn’t ready. She wasn’t ready.

“What were you tryin to do? Hide it?”

She shook her head.

“Were you in denial?” He said this more soothingly. The tone portrayed that he already knew the answer.

Buffy laid her head against his shoulder. “Oh, Spike, this can’t be happening now. Please make it stop,” she begged.

He stroked her hair. “Nothing I can do.”

“Just hold me then.”

He gathered her in his arms. She sighed, snuggling up against him.

“It’ll be okay, luv,” he assured her.

She believed him. She shouldn’t have. Everything pointed against it, but she did anyway.

The sound of clopping horse hoofs thundered into their ears. Buffy shot out of his embrace as an arrow penetrated the wall beside them. So much for Spike’s false claim.

__________________________________________________
 

Chapter 21

It was like watching a movie. The events passing before her eyes felt distant, as if they were happening to someone else. There were shouts outside and more arrows hurdled through the air. The Winnebago swerved. Buffy swayed and Spike reached out to steady her.

“Come on.” He tugged her out into the main area of the Winnebago. Joyce ran to Buffy.

“What is going on? Who are these people?” Joyce frantically questioned.

“I met up with them before. They’re an army . . .” Her eyes met Spike’s. “Set on destroying the key.”

Spike clenched his jaw.

“We need weapons,” Giles declared.

“Ram them,” Buffy ordered. She held onto the table as Giles drove into the horses.

Scampering came from above them. Someone was on the roof. A sword shot down at them, ripping through the metal barrier. It went back up, only to be jammed down again a second later. Spike acted as fast as lightning. His hands wrapped around the blade. Now was the time for Buffy to enter the fray. She awkwardly climbed onto the table under the hatch.

“Xander, can you lift me up?”

Joyce frowned. “You’re not going out there!”

“There’s no choice. Spike can’t leave the Winnebago, Giles is driving, and Xander looks ready to heave. I have to.” Willow was out of the question since she was busy trying to control an out of control Tara.

“Don’t you dare, pet,” Spike warned.

Buffy ignored the contradictions. She motioned for Xander to help her. He boosted her up through the hatch. It was difficult hoisting herself out with the restricting belly but she managed. She balanced herself on her feet. The knight on the roof saw her. He pulled harder on the sword. The weapon came free and he thrust it at her. Buffy jumped backwards. She kicked at his legs before he could swing again.

The knight went down. Buffy leaned down to pummel him. The sword went skittering across the roof. The knight struggled against her. He got the upper hand and threw her off. She went flying. She landed near the edge of the Winnebago with a thud.

“Hey, leave my daughter alone!”

Buffy’s eyes widened. Her mother stood before the knight, brandished with the discarded sword. “Mom?”

Joyce shrugged with a grin. “It’s not an ax but it’ll do.”

Joyce charged at the knight. He made an effort to get up but Joyce was faster. She stabbed him in the side. He hollered in pain. Joyce took her foot and kicked him over the side. Joyce swung the sword.

“Wow, Mom, where’d you learn how to fight?” Buffy asked.

Joyce went over to help her daughter stand. “It’s a Summers’ trait. And I’ve watched you.”

Just then a horse came up alongside the Winnebago. He tossed up a grapple hook and started to climb up. Buffy and Joyce broke away, preparing to do battle. This knight had a scary looking mace.

“Mom, give me the sword,” Buffy commanded.

Before Joyce could the knight used the mace chain to wrap around the weapon. He tugged it out of Joyce’s clutch. The blade flung off the moving vehicle. They could hear another knight ascend.

Buffy kicked out at the first knight. Then she kneed him in the stomach. He went over the side with a yell.

The next knight held an ax. Buffy dodged it as it came her way. She took hold of his arm and twisted it. She heard a crunch sound. The tightening in her stomach took her by surprise. She let go of the foe and winced. The knight used his head to smash into her. She careened back, ending up on the edge of the Winnebago. She teetered, trying to regain her balance. Joyce rushed over and caught Buffy before she could fall. The rescue was in vain, however. The Winnebago went out of control.

“We have to jump!” Buffy shouted.

“But honey . . . ! You’re in no condition-“Joyce argued.

The Winnebago yet again veered to the side. The women held onto each other.

“Better to jump now than to go kaboom.”

Buffy didn’t wait for a response. She leapt off, taking her mother with her. They landed in the desert below. Buffy cried out on impact. She rolled her body until she came to a stop. She slowly sat up in time to watch the others zigzag and then tip in a cloud of dust.

“Buffy, are you all right?” Joyce questioned.

“Yeah. Are you?” Buffy asked in return.

Joyce limped over. She took Buffy’s hands and pulled her up. Their attention fell to the fallen Winnebago.

+ + +

The army of knights had vanished. Buffy guessed they fled to regroup and make up a new plan. One thing was for certain: they would be back.

The abandoned gas station was their only option. The place looked pathetic. A rusted pick-up truck was parked outside near the pump. A lone tire leaned against the wall. The group stepped inside, Spike rushing in first. He stomped on his smoking duster. The interior wasn’t any better than the outside, if anything it was worse. The windows were partially broken and glass littered the cement floor. Boards covered the remaining glass. Dust covered the neglected counter. There was also a retched musty smell.

Buffy collapsed on the floor, leaning her head back against the counter. “What, no mints on the pillow?” she quipped exhaustedly.

Spike crouched down in front of her. He took her hands in his, looking into her eyes. “How you holding up, pet?”

“Do I have to be up? Can’t I be down? Down sounds nice right about now,” Buffy said.

He smiled.

Buffy noticed that Spike’s hands were bandaged. Red had soaked through the white cloth. “What about you?”

Spike held up his hands. “Oh, these? Tis nothing. They’ll heal in no time. It’s you I’m worried about.”

“We have another plan, right? One that doesn’t involve pointy knives and a Winnebago?”

Buffy took a deep breath. “We rest here a minute but we have to keep moving.”

Xander came up. “Where?”

“I don’t know!” she desperately cried. “We can’t stay here. It-It’s too close to the wreck. We’re too easy to find.”

“Shouldn’t we be getting you to the hospital?” Spike suggested.

“Is Buffy hurt?” Giles questioned.

There wasn’t time for a response. A fiery arrow shot through a window. It imbedded itself in the wall behind. Xander rushed over and plucked it out. He stomped on it until the flame smothered.

Buffy picked herself up with Spike’s aid. More arrows came at them. Willow helped Tara duck out of the way. Tara wailed.

Anya took a peek outside. “They’ve brought some friends this time,” she said.

“Great,” muttered Buffy. “I’m glad their so popular.”

Buffy dodged another arrow. “Willow!”

“I’m on it!” called Willow.

“We have to do something!” She spotted a vending machine off in the corner. “Here, help me out, Spike.”

The two began to shove the coffee machine in front of the door. After getting it in place Buffy doubled over. “Not again,” she groaned.

Giles watched intently. “Dear lord, are you in labor?”

Joyce took Buffy by the shoulders. She tried to push Buffy away from the door. “You have to sit or lay down.”

Buffy shook her head. “I can’t!”

The boards over the windows rattled as knights beat on them. Buffy shut her eyes and let out a small squeak. If she wished hard enough maybe it would all go away.

An ax hacked at another door. Splinters went flying. A knight crashed through. He rushed at Buffy and punched her in the face. She was knocked aside, ramming into the counter.

Spike lunged at the knight. He punched the guy in the jaw, only to be rewarded by a massive migraine. He held his head and yelled.

Buffy regained control. She whacked the knight as hard as she could. He thrust his ax at her but she was able to block it. Then she smashed him into the wall. He fell unconscious. She sighed in relief. Xander and Spike came over and began to drag the man into the back room.

Another knight crashed his way through. He wore different armor than the others, more extravagant. He held out his sword, aimed at Buffy’s stomach. “The key!”

How did they find out? she wondered. She hugged her middle. She spotted the fallen ax from the other knight. She snatched it up and threw it at the higher ranking soldier. It hit his hand and his sword dropped.

The knight dashed at Buffy. She attempted to hit him but he evaded her fist. He tossed her aside and she hit the wall, sliding down in a heap. He loomed over her with menace. Joyce snuck up behind the knight and used the blunt end of the sword to hit him on the head, knocking him out cold.

“Mom, ever think of taking up weaponry?” Buffy asked.

“Enemies, fall and fly!” Willow shouted. “Circular arms, raise a wall!” She held up her arms.

Energy crackled through the air. Another knight trying to enter bounced back. Commotion broke outside. Then everything fell silent. The scoobies held their breaths and waited. The force field seemed to hold.

“Will, how long will it hold?” Buffy asked.

Willow glanced out the window. “Half a day maybe.”

Buffy nodded. Pain washed over her face. She held her stomach and tried not to signify how much it took out of her.

“Just long enough for you to . . . give birth,” Willow said.

Buffy sagged after the contraction ended. Dread hung over her head at the thought of ‘after’.

________________________________________________

Chapter 22

Time blurred. It had to have been hours but no one could be sure how many. Buffy’s contractions were full-blast now and they seemed never ending. She hardly seemed to notice the others anymore, so intent on her body’s workings. Spike hovered nearby, uncertain and feeling helpless.

“How long you lot reckon it’s been?” the vampire abruptly questioned the group.

“I didn’t bring my watch,” Xander said.

Willow looked out the window with a pensive expression. “There’s not much time to spare. They’re out there trying to punch a hole through.”

Anya brightened. “Spike, you should have sex with her!”

“Say what!?” Xander exclaimed. He spun toward his girlfriend. “There will be no grunting of any kind.”

At that moment Buffy grunted loudly. The noise made everyone turn toward her. Sweat made her skin slick and shiny, and she gave the impression of being drained. For Buffy, the slayer, drained was a sign for alarm.

Xander pointed toward Buffy. “Except from the expected baby having, of course.”

Spike rolled his eyes.

“I heard sex helps stimulate labor,” Anya said.

“Ahn, not helping.”

She pouted and crossed her arms. “Fine!”

“I’m telling you,” Spike said,” Tis isn’t natural for labor to go on like this. She should be pushing by now.”

Joyce knelt next to Buffy. She swept wet hair off Buffy’s forehead. “She’s doing fine.” Then to Buffy,” You’re doing fine.”

The only answer they got was another contraction. Buffy gritted her teeth and got swept up in it. The sight clenched at Spike’s unbeating heart. He hoped it wouldn’t be much longer.

But it was. Buffy eventually got up to everyone’s surprise. Giles began to protest and she shot him the evil eye, which made him back down. Buffy paced back and forth. Anytime anyone neared, bitchy Buffy emerged with fiery vengeance. It drove them all insane, but probably Spike the most of all. It hurt that she wouldn’t let him comfort her.

After much of this Buffy gave in and collapsed in her mother’s arms. Joyce eased her back down to the floor. She rubbed her back as Buffy whimpered.

“How much longer is this going to take?” Buffy spat. It was the first time she had spoken in hours.

“Hopefully not much,” Giles stated. His eyes were dark with foreboding. Spike didn’t like it at all. It meant his worry wasn’t uncalled for.

Spike admired Joyce. Throughout the whole thing she remained calm and murmured encouraging words. Buffy might seem worked up now but he suspected it was nothing compared to how she could have been.

Joyce smiled. “Honey, I need to take a look and see how you’re doing.”

Buffy nodded. Joyce moved to tug down Buffy’s slacks.

“Keep your eyes away, Harris,” Spike warned Xander harshly.

“Yeah,” agreed Anya.

Xander glared. “Like I would.”

Spike snorted. He removed his duster. He laid the material over Buffy’s exposed hips. Joyce gave him a grateful look. He shrugged.

Joyce massaged Buffy’s leg. She lifted the coat and took a peek.

“Can I push?” Buffy asked.

“Do you feel ready to push?” inquired Joyce.

The slayer laughed manically. “How the fuck should I know!? I’ve never done this before!”

“Buffy!” scolded her mother.

Buffy looked sheepish. “Sorry, Mom. No, I don’t feel the urge to push. But this is getting me nowhere.”

Another contraction ripped through Buffy. She gripped Joyce’s arm. Joyce tried to mask the pain that the slayer-grip caused. It was nothing compared to what Buffy must be going through.

Tara squirmed in Willow’s grasp. “The shrieking banshees! Make them stop!” The blonde covered her ears.

“Shhh . . . “ Willow soothed. She stroked Tara’s hair.

Joyce sighed. She glanced up at the others. “We’re in for a long and hard labor. She’s hardly dilated.”

Giles took his glasses off. He proceeded to clean them.

“All we can do is wait,” Joyce added.

So they did. The scoobies remained quiet, even Tara. They watched and waited as Buffy strained against her agony. Something had to change eventually. Except it didn’t. The contractions kept coming but Buffy never attempted to push. Spike turned away, not able to take it. He heard his girl moan again and involuntarily spun back around.

Buffy rocked back and forth, holding her stomach. She tried different positions, finding none to her liking. She looked helpless and succumbed by the storm inside her. Things couldn’t get worse, Spike thought.

They did, though. Buffy’s moans turned to screams. Spike rushed over to her side. She wouldn’t even look at him. He clenched his jaw. She hated him.

“I’m sorry,” Spike apologized.

“Spike didn’t do this. It wasn’t his fault,” Joyce said.

“If he never existed the monks couldn’t have done this to me,” Buffy cried.

The words stung hard. They were worse than Cecily’s ‘you’re beneath me’. Buffy wished he never existed. Spike put his face in his hands. He felt something touch his back.

“She doesn’t mean it,” Joyce whispered.

Spike nodded. Still, he wasn’t certain.

Minutes passed and passed, evaporating in the air. Buffy’s outbursts ceased to soft tears. Spike guessed it wasn’t from the contractions letting up. She still flinched every now and then. She was simply too tired to care.

“Something needs to be done,” Giles stated.

“And soon,” Willow said. She gestured out the window. “I don’t know how long my spell will hold.”

Giles ran a hand through his hair. He was at a loss.

“Something’s wrong,” Buffy croaked. “She won’t come. She won’t come out.”

There was a moment where no one spoke or moved as they let that sink in.

“Make it stop!” Buffy begged. “Maybe it isn’t time yet. This is a false labor.” Buffy arched her back. The contraction died and she collapsed back against the counter, depleted. She shivered slightly. She turned her head to address Willow. “Do something, Will. Please! You can stop it!”

“I . . .” Willow bit her lip.

“I can’t take much more of this.” Buffy fell into a sobbing fit. She rubbed her hands over her belly forlornly.

Spike caught Joyce’s attention. He motioned for her to come over so he could talk in private. They went over to the side, out of Buffy’s range of hearing (or so Spike hoped).

Joyce took a deep breath. “She’s not progressing. She should be well into the second stage of labor by now.”

“What does that mean?”

“Frankly I don’t know. My labor with Buffy wasn’t like this. It only took me eight hours. This is . . . This is . . . She may be the slayer but . . .”

Spike closed his eyes. Buffy might give out. He rammed at a wall and smashed his fist through.

Buffy’s distress soaked into Spike’s being. He had to get away. He crept into the back room to hide. He paused to light a cigarette. His hands burned as he attempted to flick his lighter. He finally gave up and put it away.

“She is having difficulties?”

The voice took Spike by surprise. He had forgotten about the knight they had captured. He ignored it.

“Let us hope it prevents the key’s surfacing. Otherwise unspeakable torment will unleash upon us all.” There was a long pause. “You should kill it now while the slayer is defenseless.”

Spike stalked up. He wrapped his hand around the knight’s neck and squeezed. “Don’t you dare suggest such things about my daughter!”

“You are the father? A vampire?”

Sharp knives pierced Spike’s brain. He bared the pain.

“Separate!”

Spike went sliding across the floor. He shifted to see Willow in the doorway. She came in and he noticed her eyes had gone black. After a moment they faded to their natural color.

“Did you want to kill him?”

“Yes,” hissed Spike. He breathed rapidly, trying to focus his eyes. “He deserves it after what he said.”

“He’s important, Spike.” Willow narrowed her eyes at the chained man. “What are you? Lieutenant?”

“General,” the knight replied.

Willow crossed her arms. “Impressive. What do you know about Glory?”

“The beast ruled with two other gods. The beast's power grew beyond even what they could conceive. As did her lust for pain and misery. They looked upon her, what she had become ... and trembled.”

Willow’s eyes widened. “Gods afraid.”

“So was her power. They feared she would attempt to seize their dimension for herself, and decided to strike first. A great battle erupted. In the end, they stood victorious over the beast ... barely. She was cast out. Banished to this lower plane of existence, forced to live and eventually die trapped within the body of a mortal ... a newborn male, created as her prison. That is the beast's ... only weakness.”.”

“Kill the man and the god dies.” Willow frowned.

“I could do it. It’d hurt like hell after but . . .” Spike offered.

Willow shot him a look. “Buffy wouldn’t allow it.”

The general chuckled. “You are fools. Sacrifices are required to ensure the safety of others.”

Spike knew the knight’s words were true. His ears picked up the sound of Buffy going through another contraction. He hoped that the sacrifice wouldn’t have to include his slayer or daughter. He made a decision then. If anyone was going to have to be spared it would be him. He was the most logical choice anyway. He was a vampire and had outlived his rightful time. And he would be the least missed.

“Spike, come on. Let’s go see how Buffy is doing,” Willow suggested.

She was doing the same. Still more time went by. Buffy barely noticed the contractions after awhile. Her hands stopped moving but still kept contact with her belly. She seemed to be in a deep mediation or dissociating.

“Is she dying?” Buffy asked suddenly.

No one answered. No one had an answer. They weren’t doctors and had no clue. Buffy clutched her middle tighter. “Someone talk to me!”

Spike got down on his knees. “She’s tough like you.”

“That didn’t answer my question.”

Spike got up and went over to Willow. The witch raised her head.

“Red, I need you to open a door,” he said.

The two ventured outside to face the enemy. Willow waved her hands and a small part of the barrier parted.

“We need you to let us bring in a doctor. We have someone in need of medical attention,” Willow informed.

“Why should we help you? You are the protectors of the key,” a knight said.

“Because that’s the way it’s done,” Spike said. “Don’t you have any honor?”

“We have no honor toward those conversing with vampires.”

“Look here, pillock, we got a bleeding woman in there! You want to be responsible for her death?”

The knight’s expression hardened.

“We have your general,” Willow reminded.

The knight caved. “Very well,” he finally said. “We shall grant you your request.”

Spike felt a weight lift. He returned to Buffy while Willow called the only doctor they could get a hold of. Buffy let Spike touch her this time. He wasn’t fooled to think it was because she welcomed it. She had lost her will to stop him.

It took too long for help to arrive. Eventually it did. Spike studied the man. A sense of familiarity overcame him. He’d seen this doctor before.

Ben, the doctor informed. His eyes swept over Buffy. Spike didn’t like his look. The thought of him examining between her parted legs made Spike sick.

“I was told that her labor is augmented,” Ben said.

Joyce nodded.

Buffy didn’t acknowledge Ben’s presence. He got down to check her state. He prodded around at her womb and nether regions.

“How long has she been in labor?” Ben asked.

“Maybe thirteen hours. Maybe more, maybe less,” Xander said uncertainly.

“And the time before we got here. She never did say when it started,” Spike continued.

Ben nodded. “Her uterus is failing to progress further.”

“What can you do?” Joyce asked.

Ben dug into his black medical bag. He took out a stethoscope and blood pressure monitor. He took Buffy’s vitals.

“I think I can burst the amniotic sac. That should bring forth the process.”

Spike snorted. “You think?”

Ben glanced up. “This isn’t my forte. I don’t deal with births. I was educated in medical school but . . .”

The demon in Spike longed to be brought out. It wanted to threaten Ben into succeeding like with the doctor about taking out the chip. On second thought, that didn’t end well.

Ben revealed a long crochet-type hook with a pricked end. Buffy blinked, coming out of her daze.

“What are you doing with that?” She seemed panicked.

“It’s called an amniohook,” Ben said.

“Uh huh. And what’s it for?”

Ben opened his mouth. Spike spoke before he could.

“It’s going to help you, Buffy.”

Buffy shook her head. “I don’t want that thing inside me.”

“If you want this to end well you have to.”

She sighed and nodded. Ben took the hook and slid it under the coat. The leather blocked Spike’s view but he guessed what was happening. He expected Buffy to be in pain. If she was, though, she concealed it. The hook came out a bloodied mess. Spike stared at it for a moment before quickly averting his eyes. He had more to care about than dinner.

“You all right, pet.”

A moan was all he got in return. Her face scrunched up. The next wave came right after. Her contractions grew rapidly until she only had seconds to spare before the next. Ben muttered comforting words of assurance. Spike suppressed a growl. It should be him down there with her instead.

Buffy clawed at the cement floor. “Can I push?”

Ben spread her legs. He leaned down. When he straightened he was smiling. “You’re fully dilated, Buffy. Go ahead and push on the next one.”

“What do you mean next one? It’s all one big one now,” she panted. She lifted slightly and put all her energy into a push.

“Good. Get ready for another one,” Ben instructed.

This continued. Then Buffy fell back. “I can’t,” she complained. “I’m so tired.”

“Nonsense. You are almost done.”

Spike rushed in. He pushed Ben away and took his place. “Buffy, luv, yes you can.”

“Go away,” Buffy said. “I don’t want you near me.”

He ignored her. “You’ve been through hell and back. You can do this.”

“No, I really can’t. Let me die.”

Okay, tenderness wasn’t going to work. Time to get firm. “You’re the slayer! You’ve fought demons. Deal with the exhaustion and pain!”

“I can’t.”

He punched her in the face. Her eyes widened in astonishment.

“Spike!” Joyce yelled.

Ben tried to stop the vampire. Spike tossed him aside again. Spike took another swing at Buffy.

“Maybe you can’t do it. Fine. So what? You are Buffy Summers. Die trying!”

Buffy took a moment to breathe. “Ahhh, here comes another.”

“Bloody push!” Spike commanded.

“I will, you . . . you bossy vampire!”

Spike chuckled. Good girl.

She pushed and pushed. She snatched onto Spike’s hand. Ben wouldn’t come near again because of Spike. So the vamp took a look himself. He was rewarded with a brown head. It disappeared but returned as another contraction came.

“I see a head!” Spike exclaimed.

He brought her hand down to touch the small wonder. Buffy broke into tears that soon transformed into relieved laughter. The revelation gave her new jubilance. She put great effort into the next push. The entire head emerged. Spike reached out and took it. Buffy pushed again and the baby slithered entirely out.

Spike held the red, slimy creature. It remained still. Spike gazed at it in horror. His worst fear came into being. He had created death. His throat tightened.

Buffy weakly sat up. “Is she . . .”

Spike couldn’t meet Buffy’s eyes.

“You have to coax it to life,” Ben said. “Hold her upside-down by her feet. Then sweep her mouth out.”

Spike did as told. He took his pointer finger and cleaned the creature’s mouth out. She took in some air. A tiny cry entered the room. Her eyes opened, blue, and she became Dawn. His daughter, his number one girl. His eyes stung.

Buffy held out her hands. Spike gingerly handed the baby over to her mother.

Ben handed over a pair of scissors and some thread. “Tie the string six inches from the baby. Then cut the cord.”

Spike fumbled with the scissors. He made a quick cut after the umbilical cord stopped pulsating. Mother and daughter were free.

The placenta was discarded with little trouble. Buffy leaned back, cuddling Dawn to her chest. She beamed. She may be sweat-covered, her hair tangled, her skin pallid, but she was beautiful to Spike.

“She has your eyes,” Buffy declared. She smiled proudly.

Spike hesitated before lowering to lie down beside them on the hard floor. His arm went around them both, holding them close. They hardly were aware of the spectateing audience that gathered around the new family.

All of a sudden Ben jumped up. He looked around wildly. “You have to let me out!”

Everyone just shared looks of confusion.

“You don’t understand! You have to let me out now!” Ben walked over to the wall. He put his hands up to claw at his head. “No!”

Glory morphed in front of them. Ben is Glory, Spike realized. No wonder he got bad feelings about the bloke. Glory stretched up toward the ceiling. She took in her surroundings, perplexed. Her eyes landed on the dirty baby in Buffy’s arms. Buffy huddled with Dawn.

“Well, what do you know. Little Ben did something right,” Glory muttered.

Spike got up. He charged at the goddess. She knocked him back and he landed into Xander. The two men crashed to the floor.

Buffy crawled with her baby in attempts to escape. She moved with difficulty and in protest. Glory zipped over and blocked her path. Buffy stopped and raised her head. She knew right then that she wasn’t going to get away. She absorbed Dawn’s features hard, fearing it might be the last time she saw them.

Glory swept down and tugged the baby away. Buffy reached out desperately.

Spike chased after Glory into the night. He dodged the bodies that littered the ground that she left like breadcrumbs. The others followed far behind. They left Buffy, a crumpled statue, her eyes glazing over as she sunk down inside herself.

___________________________________________________