REPLAY

Rated- PG13

Disclaimer- Joss Whedon owns the rights to Buffy and Angel

Spoilers- The ENTIRE series of Buffy and the finale of Angel

Summary- Learning of Spike’s resurrection Dawn and she venture to LA in search of him. But they are too late. . . Or are they? Is there a way to fix things before they began to get dark?

Chapter 1- Seeking Out the Dead

"I don’t understand, Buffy," Dawn said. "Why’d you break up with him?"

Buffy took a sip of her steaming coffee. It tasted rich on her throat, full of cream and sugar. She placed the blue mug back down on the green kitchen island. Her face remained unchanged by Dawn’s question.

"I don’t love the immortal," was the dry reply.

"But that’s understandable. Things were still new."

"I’d never be able to love him."

Dawn crossed her arms. She stood before Buffy, her expression stern. "How can you know that for sure? I thought things were going so well."

A sigh escaped the slayer’s lips. "Maybe I’m not meant to prosper when it comes to romance. Men and Buffy don’t seem to mix. You love a guy and they turn evil, run off to the jungle, or decide to play hero."

There was a span of silence. Dawn’s eyes softened.

"Were you talking about Spike?"

"Huh?"

"That last one. The hero? Were you talking about Spike?"

Buffy stared down into her pale beverage. It was supposed to perk her up, but she felt tired and drained.

"Did you love him?" Dawn pressed on.

When Buffy raised her head again silent tears had made their way down her cheeks. Her mouth wobbled.

"It’s so hard, Dawnie. I can’t forget him."

"You’re not supposed to."

"But thinking about him hurts."

The teen stepped closer. She wrapped her sister up in a comforting hug. "I know," she whispered.

Buffy’s crying intensified. "I told him and he didn’t believe me."

Dawn pulled back slightly. "What?"

"I told him I loved him and he didn’t believe me." Buffy paused. "I waited too long. And now he’ll never be able to know what he means to me."

"That’s not true."

Both girls turned to see Andrew standing in the doorway. He wore a bathrobe and his hair stood on end from sleep.

"What are you talking about Andrew?" Dawn asked.

Andrew came into the kitchen. "Ah, gentle listeners, gather round while I replay my journey to the retched law firm known as Wolfram and Hart."

Buffy frowned. She wiped the wetness from her face. "On with it," she said.

"Yeah," Dawn said. "Get to the point. What did you mean before?"

A large grin spread across the ex-evil villain’s features. "I was sworn to secrecy, but hearing Buffy’s confession has . . ."

Buffy got down from her stool. She slammed her palms down on the surface of the island.

"In one sentence, Andrew. Tell me in one sentence."

Stricken by the slayer’s wrath, Andrew sobered.

"He’s alive," Andrew said.

"Who?" Buffy said, confused.

"Spike. He’s alive in LA."

+ + +

She hardly said anything the entire plane ride. Mainly she just stared out the window, watching the land below. Dawn tried to find a way to spark up a conversation but she was too confused to gather thoughts.

Spike was alive. The why and how were a blank. They didn’t really matter anyway. Spike was alive and that’s all the two girls needed to know.

Buffy got her voice back after they landed, gathered their things, and got off.

"That damned vampire," Buffy said. "The way Andrew explained things it seemed like he didn’t have a good reason for keeping his return a secret." Her hands balled into fists. "The things I’m going to do to him."

Hopefully, Dawn suggested," Hug him, kiss him, and hold him tight?"

Buffy’s lips twitched. "Well . . . Maybe. Later. After I shake him around a bit."

Neither of them had been to Wolfram and Hart. It didn’t take long to find, however. The building was located down town, surrounded by other large businesses. Buffy and Dawn gazed at the law firm in shock. It looked like it had been in an earthquake. The other buildings on the street seemed fine, though.

The place had collapsed. There were cracks in the walls and windows had shattered. Buffy shuddered. She had an eerie feeling.

"They wouldn’t have been in there when . . . What do you think happened?" Dawn said.

Buffy shook her head. "Of course not. And, I don’t know. Demon raid? Magic? Who knows. Hey, maybe it was the amulet again! That thing loves to destroy things." After the last part, Buffy frowned.

The slayer surveyed the street. It was deserted. It was dead quiet, too still. Even this late at night someone should have been about.

"I’m going to look for clues," Buffy informed.

With her sister behind her, Buffy examined the site. Should I go inside? she thought. The entrance was blocked. With her slayer strength she probably could have made it through, but . . . She glanced at Dawn. There was no way she was taking the teenager into that place. Even if it was still standing she wouldn’t have. The rest of it could fall at any moment too.

Buffy headed away, checking the side streets. At first there was nothing, but then she found bodies. Demons were scattered facedown on the pavement.

"What the . . .?" Buffy mumbled.

The corpses became closer together and more frequent.

Holding her nose from the stench, Dawn said, "I don’t like this."

"Neither do I."

Something happened here. Something big.

Suddenly there was a moan. Buffy rushed off toward the sound. Dawn followed at a slower pace. The sound led them into a narrow, darkened alley. The bodies were piled up, and Buffy stepped on a few accidentally. Her hand came up to cover her mouth when she saw one that wasn’t a demon and very familiar.

"Angel!"

Buffy ran to his side. She knelt beside him. He wasn’t fully conscious, but occasionally would moan or jerk. He was covered in scrapes, bruises, and stab wounds. There was even a singed part of flesh on his arm.

"Oh my God."

Dawn stepped into the alley. She gasped.

"Stay where you are, Dawnie," Buffy commanded.

"Is that Angel?" Dawn questioned.

"Yes. We have to get him out of here." She glanced up at the sky. It was lightening. "It’ll be light soon."

"Where are we gonna take him?"

Using super-strength, Buffy hoisted the vampire up and over her shoulder. She carried him over to the alley opening.

"I don’t know." She looked at her ex-lover, desperation coming over her. God, the sight of him squeezed at her heart. He was so beat up.

"Wait!" Buffy exclaimed. "The hotel. I don’t think he sold it. We can take him there."

A short while later Buffy kicked the door open to the Hyperion hotel. It was dark. Dawn tried a light switch, but the electricity must have been shut off.
Buffy laid Angel down on a couch in the lobby. Her hand ran over his injuries lightly as she sat by his side. She wished she had a first aid kit. Hopefully his healing skills didn’t need antiseptic.

Dawn stood behind the couch, watching in fright.

"Buffy, where’s Spike? Andrew said he’s been working for Angel," Dawn said.

"I don’t know," was all Buffy could say.

"It doesn’t mean anything. Right? He could have had a fight with Angel and . . . Or he didn’t even know Angel was in trouble." Dawn sounded like she was searching for reassurance.

Buffy didn’t answer. She removed Angel’s shirt and used it to mop up the blood that trickled from a gash.

Time went by slowly. They didn’t know how long it had been when Angel finally woke up. He gazed up at Buffy with incomprehension. After a moment his brain began to work again.

Angel lifted his head. "Buffy?" he croaked.

Buffy pushed him back down. "Don’t move. You’re hurt."

He winced. "Where are the others?"

"What others?"

"Gunn. Illyria. Spike."

Everything froze. It was hard for Buffy to breath.

"Spike was with you?" This came from Dawn.

Angel closed his eyes. "You didn’t see them?"

Silence fell over the room.
"I’m the only one left," Angel whispered.

Something snapped within the blonde. She jumped to her feet and bolted. She ran out into the start of dawn. Her legs pumped wildly, propelling her toward the alley. As soon as she made it she combed the death scene. She lifted body after body.

Footsteps neared. "Buffy!"

Buffy turned to see Dawn. "Help me look," she begged.

Devastation had spread over Dawn’s face. "He’s not here."

Shaking, Buffy denied the statement. "No! He’s got to be here! He wouldn’t have left me a second time!"

Buffy’s legs gave out. She crumpled to the ground as sobs escaped her. Dawn came over. She got down as well, hugging her sister.

"I’m so sorry," Dawn said.

Buffy just cried. Tears formed in the key’s eyes as well. They held each other tightly, wallowing in grief.

They were so involved in their emotions that they didn’t notice movement behind them. Buffy was ripped away from her sister and tossed a few feet away. Stunned, she didn’t act quick enough. One of the demons hadn’t been dead. It went at Dawn, imbedding its claws into her right arm. She cried out in pain.

Buffy scrambled up. Fire raged in her green eyes. She charged at the demon. Her attack was quick and brutal. Her fists flew into his face over and over. When she broke his neck, and his remains thumped to the ground, she gaped as if surprised the battle was over.

Blinking, Buffy forced herself out of her stupor. She went over to Dawn, lifting her arm.

"Are you all right?" Buffy asked.
Dawn nodded. Blood rolled down and a few drops slid off her arm. She paid no attention to it. The tears in her eyes had intensified. She threw herself at Buffy again.

"Life is so unfair! People keep dying!" Dawn cried.

Buffy stroked the teen’s brown hair. Her gaze traveled across the battle scene. Her eyes widened as she made out what must have been a man. Gunn, she guessed. He was barely recognizable.

"I wish there was some way to stop this," Dawn went on.

"There isn’t," Buffy said. "We just have to accept it."

"But . . ."

Green light spilled out of Dawn, enveloping them. Her head fell back, her mouth open, and her eyes enlarged.

"Dawn!" Buffy shouted with alarm.

The light absorbed into Buffy, making its way through her entire system. She couldn’t help but yell at the intensity of it.

________________________________________________

Yes, Dawn used her key power. I had a lot of trouble trying to figure out a good way to take them back to the past. It was either this or finding Jonathan’s magic bone in the crater. *L*

Chapter 2- Back to Life, Back to Reality


Buffy opened her eyes to see nothing. Pitch blackness surrounded her. She reached out and her hand hit something hard. Her arms flayed frantically. She was tightly enclosed in a wooden box. She tried to scream but nothing came out.

No, not again! Oh God, her mind cried.

She pounded on the ceiling and then began to tear at the lining. She smashed her fist through the lid. The rich scent of soil flooded her nostrils.

Buffy lifted herself out of the coffin. She crawled up and up. The ground seemed forever, going on to infinity. Her lungs burned. Finally her right hand punched through grass and into the night air. She used her slayer strength to pull the rest of herself out of the grave.

She collapsed, sucking in gulps of fresh air. Her hair was in tangles, her skin caked in dirt. She glanced down to see that she wore a black dress. Sitting up, her eyes traveled over the landscape. Trees stood before her.

Where am I? she wondered.

She spotted the tombstone and her questions were answered.

Buffy Anne Summers
1981-2001
Beloved Sister
Devoted Friend
She saved the World
A Lot

Buffy scrambled to her feet. She backed away, shaking her head. It wasn't possible. She turned and ran.

+ +

“Get back.”

That voice. She didn't have time to process what it meant because Dawn was shoved backwards. The sound of motors filtered into her ears. The black form before her rose toward the sound. Dawn's eyes locked on the man's back. She recognized that coat. Long, worn, and smelling of alcohol.

“Spike?” Dawn asked.

The bleached-blonde turned. A gasp escaped Dawn's lips. It was him, down to the scar across his left eyebrow. After a moment, her mind clearing from its jumbled state, she jumped up with a squeal. She slammed into him, wrapping her arms around him.

Spike froze in shock, then awkwardly patted her before pushing her away. “What was that about, nibblet?”

A giant grin spread over Dawn's face. “I can't believe this is happening. We thought you were dead.”

He rose an eyebrow. “What are you goin on about?”

They were interrupted by a woman's scream from across the street. There was a crash as a chair was thrown out the window. Spike smiled to himself. Dawn shook her head. Same old Spike. Things suddenly fell into place. That was it! Old Spike, as in before the soul.

Dawn glanced around her. They stood next to a house. Her house, the house her mother had bought in Sunnydale. She spotted the mailbox. It was smashed but she could still read the address. 1630 Revello Drive. Her eyes grew big. She glanced from the house to Spike, and then to the commotion next door.

This had all happened before. More than two years ago.

Memories of the alley flooded her brain. I did this, she thought. Somehow I sent myself to . . . Wait, what was the exact date? It was sometime during the beginning of the school year.

“Spike,” Dawn said. He looked over. “What day is it?”

“What?” He furrowed his brow. “Tuesday. October second.”

Laughter spilled out of Dawn. “Tuesday, of course.”

Spike's expression of concern deepened.

All of a sudden another motorcycle came into view, coming from around the corner. The tires screeched as it zipped toward them at a high rate.

Dawn stood up. Her mouth gaped open.

“Oh my God!” Dawn exclaimed. Something had just occurred to her. She might have brought Buffy with her on this journey through time. And today was the day she had been resurrected. She couldn't let her sister go through that again. “This is terrible! We have to get to Buffy's grave.”

Dawn grabbed Spike's arm. She tugged at him. “We have to go! I can't explain it right now.”

“Look, Bit. . .” Spike began.

“Please, Spike. It's important.”

He shook his head. He ran at the demon on the motorcycle. He leapt, kicking the creature off. The demon landed hard on the ground. Spike confiscated the bike, hopping on.

He beckoned Dawn. “Let's fly, Pigeon.”

Dawn nodded. She joined him, snatching up the kid football helmet on the way.

+ +

In a daze Buffy walked. The entire town was trashed. Litter was dispersed all over the streets, stores had been looted, houses broken into, and cars bashed in.

She forced her legs forward until she saw something that made her stop in her tracks. There was a group of demons gathered. A few barrels were positioned around them, glowing embers coming from them. There was a burning pile of trash in the background.

The leader addressed his minions. “This here is a momentous occasion, the beginning of a new era.”

Buffy neared, coming up behind them.

“Now, no question, the open backroads and highways have been good to us. But we've got ourselves a juicy little burg here, just ripe for the picking. And I ain't in no hurry to leave it. You? ” Razor continued.

The demon lackeys yelled 'no' in response.

“So I figure, what better way to kick off our ... semi-settling-down, than with a little christening?

There was an uproar of cheers.

“A symbolic act commemorating the new order around here ... and ridding ourselves of any not-so-pleasant reminders of the old.”

Razor held up a gun and loaded it.

“All in one quick, really, *really* violent fell swoop.” Razor held the gun higher. “Gentleman, start your engines.”

Buffy saw the chains attached to the demons' motorcycles. She realized what was happening too late. Her eyes met the bot's, surprised.

“Bye bye, slayer.”

Buffy took a step closer in protest. The Buffy-bot was pulled apart by the chains attached to her arms.

“No!” shouted Buffy.

All eyes fell on Buffy.

“Another one for the fires, boys,” announced Razor.

Buffy backed away. A demon on a motorcycle came from behind and cut in front of her. She turned to see another one coming at her, swinging a chain over his head. Buffy ran at that one as the first one followed. She ducked, and the chain hit the first demon, knocking him off his bike.
Buffy took the opportunity to flee the scene.


+ +

Spike zigged and zagged through the graves. It was a bumpy ride over the grass and Dawn held tightly to her friend. They traveled on until the markers began to thin out. Spike skidded to a stop.

Spike hopped off and slowly made his way to a tombstone that stood aloof from the others. It was hidden partially by trees, as if they might be able to protect it.

Dawn removed her helmet, dropping it to the ground. She hurried to Spike's side. She took in her sister's grave. The ground had collapsed, creating a hole.

“We're too late,” Dawn said.

Spike just stared at where his love used to rest.

“We have to find her,” Dawn continued.

Suddenly Spike rushed at a tree. His left hand formed a fist and he smashed it into the trunk. “Arrgh!”

“Spike!”

Spike fell to his knees. Dawn wasn't sure because he was facing away, but she guessed he was crying.

“Spike, are you okay?”

It took a moment for him to reply. “Someone took her. . . Bloody hell, can't leave sleeping slayers lie. You think after death they could show some respect.”

Dawn shook her head. “No. It's not like that.”

He spun around. His face was smeared with tears. “What is it like then?”

Dawn's expression softened. “Buffy's alive.”

Spike's eyes widened. “What did you do?”

“Me? I didn't do anything. It was Willow.”

“The witch?” He picked himself up. He briskly wiped his cheeks. “Of course Red couldn't leave well enough alone.”

“I know you hate magic, Spike, but it's Buffy. She's back.” She grabbed his arm. “And we have to find her. We can't let her wander through town.”
++

Buffy jumped down into an alley. She had finally managed to escape the hellions. She righted herself to come face-to-face with four familiar figures.

“Watch it,” the male said.
“It. . . It's the Buffy-bot,” someone else said.

Buffy squinted at the speaker. She knew that she knew her but her brain wouldn't cooperate.

“Ah, peachy. No doubt to lead the wild bunch right to us again. Hey Will, next time this thing's damaged, couldn't ya program it to find the nearest Radio Shack, or...” the man said.

The red-head studied her. “Buffy?”

Buffy's eyes scanned the group fearfully. Her heart thumped wildly in her chest. Her mind felt like it would explode from overdrive. She clutched at her head.

“Buffy, is it really you?”

“Buffy?” Xander asked.

Xander. That was the man's name.

“It's Willow. Can you hear me?”

Lifting her head, Buffy looked at the woman with red hair. “Willow?”

A relieved smile came to Willow's mouth. “Yes. Willow. Oh, Buffy, you're really here.”

“I-I can't think straight,” Buffy whispered. Her hands shook.

“Her hands are bleeding,” Tara said.

“She's filthy,” Anya commented.

Xander pointed at his resurrected best friend. “Oh no!”

“What?” Willow asked with confusion.

“How could we be so stupid!?”

“Xander!”

“Our spell worked like a magic charm. We brought you back to life, Buffy.” Xander glanced at Willow. “Right where we left her.”

Shock spread over them.

“Oh god,” Willow murmured.

“In her coffin,” Xander finished.

Willow turned away. Tara hugged her, trying to offer as much comfort as possible.

Broken, Xander turned back to Buffy. “We're sorry. We didn't know.”

There was a span of silence. Buffy kept watching them, taking in their actions.

“I . . . I don't understand,” Buffy muttered.

“It's okay,” Xander said. “You don't need to. Take it slow. All that matters is that you're home now. We brought you back. You're home with us.”

Buffy opened her mouth to speak. She didn't get a chance to have anything come out, though. That was when Razor interrupted.

“Yeah, welcome home, slayer,” Razor said.

His minions roamed in the back, eager to wreak havoc. All they needed was a signal from their leader.

“Alive and kickin after all.” He paused. “Not lookin so good, though, is she?”

“I don't see you winning too many beauty contests,” Xander punned. Xander hefted his sword. “Unless the Miss 'My face fell off' pageant gets going.”

“Big axe you got there.”

“The better to cut you down to size, grandma.”

The others seemed nervous. Razor took a step toward them.

“Ah. So you got a witch in the mix,” Razor said.

Tara held Willow's hand. “More than one.”

“I happen to be a very powerful man-witch myself.” Xander noticed the demon's amused look. “Or. . . male . . .” He glanced over his shoulder. “Is it a warlock?”

A nod from Willow was sent his way.

“Warlock.”

“Plus, we have a Slayer here, uh, who might actually be looking to eat some brains, so, I think a little quiet moseying, no hard feelings, and I'm sure your demon horde won't think any the less of you,” Anya took the liberty to say.
“Now, my boys, see, that's tricky. They came looking for a massacre...”

Out of nowhere Buffy's fist flew, cutting him off. It hit with a great amount of power, flinging his head to the side. Her entire stance had changed. It was commanding. Her veins flowed with slayer instinct.

Buffy rolled her shoulders. “I'm beginning to get this,” she said. A grin formed on her lips. “I think I like it.”

Her friends watched in amazement.

Buffy punched Razor again. “I don't know about eating brains, but I think I can kick your ass.” She kicked him in the gut. He went flying to the ground unconscious.

She hovered over Razor's inert body. Then she directed her gaze to the other demons. “Who's next?”

One of the demons charged at her. With ease she grabbed his arm and swung him. He landed roughly to the pavement. Two more came forward. She kneed one in the groin, ducked a punch, rose, and then offered her own.

“Anyone else?” Buffy prompted.

The remaining demons exchanged glances. Then they turned and ran.

Buffy turned around. She stalked over to a metal rod. She picked it up and twirled it for show. Then she went over to the fallen Razor. In a brutal act, she impaled him with it. His eyes flew open and he hollered. Buffy twisted the rod and he went still again.

“She's Buffy,” Xander commented. “She's herself again.”

Buffy turned toward Xander.
“Wow, Buff, we didn't even have to help out. You're back. You really are.”

Xander stepped over with outstretched arms. She accepted the hug.

“Yeah, I am,” she said. Then she added more softly, “And so is your eye.”

He pulled back. “What'd you say?”

She smiled. “Nothing.”

Willow came over as well. Buffy embraced her.

“It's good to see you guys,” Buffy said. She looked over at Tara and Anya. Her smile wobbled. “Tara, Anya, hey.” She beckoned them to join the reunion.

The newbie Scoobies seemed surprised but obeyed.

After a group hug, Buffy said, “Let's go home.”

Chapter 3- Walls

The scoobies hardly took their eyes off their leader and friend the entire way. Buffy could understand. It was amazing to get back someone you had lost. She was going through the same thing. She had to restrain herself from crushing Tara and Anya with another hug. One moment they're not there and then bam, they are. Wait a sec . . .

Buffy abruptly stopped walking. Everyone sent her questioning glances, which she ignored.

Spike!

The revelation was too much. Spike was alive. Or undead, the technical term was. Nevertheless, he was there. Her heart thumped wildly.

"Buffy, are you all right?" Willow asked.

"What? Oh, uh huh. I was just thinking about Dawn. She isn't home alone, is she?" Buffy covered.

Tara stepped up from the back of the group. She gave Buffy a sweet smile. "We wouldn't leave her by herself. She's with Spike."

It was one thing to think about Spike being back in her life; it was another having it confirmed. She became dizzy.

"G-Good," Buffy stammered.

She quickened her pace. She didn't think, instead running on automatic. All she knew was that she needed to get home.

Revello Drive was a mess. Trash cans had been tossed around. Pieces of glass were scattered over the pavement. The Summers house stood unharmed, except for the crushed mailbox. Buffy hardly noticed the damage. Instead her attention was riveted to the dark windows.

He's not here, Buffy thought. She remembered what had happened the first time. He had come looking for Dawn. Apparently her sister was out with him, not having wondered off. All she had to do was be patient.

The door was unlocked. At first that made her nervous, but then recalled it being that way before when Dawn led her home before. The place was dark and silent. She took a hesitant step inside. She just stood in the entryway, unsure of going any further.

Willow stepped around her and flipped on the light switch. Her eyes were flooded with luminescence, and things came into focus. Everything was there: her mother's coffee table, standing erect with not even a scratch on it, the small television, the sofa, and pictures. The pictures had the most impact. She ran her fingers over the glass frame that covered her smiling mother.

Distantly Buffy could hear her friends talking. They were discussing Dawn. They weren't sure where Spike and her had gone.

Buffy sat down on the couch, clutching Joyce's photo. She watched the other four people, detached. Things didn't feel real. It was as if she were watching a movie, instead of taking part in what was going on.

Tara was the first person to bring Buffy back in. She came toward the slayer slowly, a little concerned.

"B-Buffy? How are you doing?" the timid woman asked.

Buffy's head shot up. She opened her mouth. "I . . ."

The conversation about Dawn died away. Everyone turned to Buffy. She was bombarded by their voices speaking all at once.

"Buffy?" That came from Willow.

"Do you need anything?" Xander inquired.
"You don't have brain damage do you? Sometimes when people come back, well zombies anyway -"

"Ahn!" Xander scolded.

"She's fine, she's not a zombie," Willow said.

"What do you know about what happened?" Tara asked.

Buffy's mind reeled. She couldn't seem to form a sentence. Couldn't they calm down and speak more slowly?

"What was it like?" Anya questioned.

"It's okay. You don't have to talk about this, Buff. Hey, do you want something? Anything. Pizza. I'll get you pizza," Xander offered.

"Buffy likes pizza."

"Yeah, something to eat," Tara said.

"She doesn't want pizza," Willow said.

"I just meant-"

The door burst open. Buffy shot to her feet. The picture fell from her lap, crashing to the floor. She gasped, hoping it was all right. She didn't get a chance to check. She almost tumbled back as she was hit by her sister.

"Buffy!" Dawn cried.

"Dawn?" Buffy whispered. She ran a hand over Dawn's head. "What did you do?"

Dawn pulled back. "You remember?"

Softly, Buffy replied, "Yeah."

"I don't know how I did it. The light just came out of nowhere."

"We have to get to the magic shop and research . . ."

Someone else burst into the house.

"Dawn!"

Buffy froze.

A deafening silence fell over the group. After what seemed like an hour Buffy mustered enough courage to look toward the voice. She was captivated by blue eyes. He tilted his head to the side.

"Buffy?" It came out hoarse.

Buffy glanced down at herself, realizing that she was still covered in dirt. She almost laughed. Great, it's our reunion and I'm a mess.

"Your hands," Spike said. "It's true then. Clawed yourself out of a coffin?"

Buffy hid her bleeding hands. "That's- what I had to do."

Spike moved forward, about ready to take her hands. Then he noticed everyone else. Xander glared at him warningly, ready to step in if need be. Spike let his arms fall to his sides.

Buffy knew then that with her friends around, major blockage stood in the way between Spike and herself. No good could come of it. Sudden inspiration came to her.

"I'm tired," she said.

"That's good. You-You should sleep," Tara said.

"Oh," Willow said. "Long day."

"Well yeah, jet leg from hell must be . . . jet leg from hell," Anya commented.

Buffy shot them a look. Oh yeah, they still thought she had come back from the fiery depths. There was no way she was dealing with that now. She would- soon. But not now.

Spike nodded. "Right. I'll go." His face was blank, his eyes hollow orbs. In a flash he was gone. Buffy stared at the spot he had stood for a moment.

She faked a yawn. "Tired. See ya in the morning."

"Goodnight," Tara said.

Willow flashed her a grin. "Be happy, Buffy, we got you out. We really did it."

Buffy had to restrain herself from grabbing her best friend and shaking her. Stupid witch!

Buffy managed to go up the steps and into her room calmly. She shut and locked the door with a long sigh. She leaned against the door for a couple minutes. Then she went over to the window, opened it, and climbed out.

She hadn't snuck out of the house since high school. The memory made her smile slightly. She crouched on a tree branch and then jumped down. She landed perfectly. I'm like a cat, she thought.

Buffy straightened. She scanned the darkness. There wasn't a radioactive head in sight. I guess it's to the cemetery I come.

REPLAY




Chapter 4- Hold Me

His crypt stood amongst the shadows, only standing out by a few stray moonbeams. She stood before it for a moment, admiring the structure. This was a place of death, and yet she had found life within its walls. It was a contradiction, same as its occupant.

Buffy paused at the door. Her first instinct was to kick her way in, but stopped herself. She had to start anew, and knocking would be the best footing. She lifted her right hand and brought it down on the stone entrance. She repeated the act three times without an answer. Growing frustrated, she let out a huff.

That was it, she was barging in. She slammed her foot against the door. It burst open instantly.

The tomb was dark. Thanks to slayer vision, she managed to make her way through it. She ran her hand over Spike’s green chair.

“Spike!?” she called.

There was no reply.

She found the ladder that led to the lower level. She climbed down. The familiar musty scent that could only belong to a cellar filtered into her nose. I’m going to have to get him some scented candles or air freshener, she thought.

She surveyed Spike’s ‘bedroom’. For a vampire it was rather ‘posh’. She grinned at the Oriental rug that lay next to the bed. She removed her athletic shoes and played her toes over the woven carpeting.

Buffy’s green eyes roamed to the bed. The sight was alluring. Oh, how large it is. She had never realized how big it was. She had always been preoccupied with other things. But now that she thought about it, they had never fallen off. And believe me; they had some wild times that needed tremendous space.

I’ll take good care of you this time, Buffy vowed. I won’t let any flame touch you.

Buffy found herself stepping over to the unmade bed. She couldn’t help herself from plopping down on the mattress. Mmm, cozy. She rolled onto her stomach, pressing her face into the cool pillow. Spike, she thought dreamily. Geez, girl, Buffy thought, you have it bad.

Buffy’s eyes fluttered closed. I’ll just rest until he returns, she decided. He won’t be long. He’s probably only at Willy’s bar getting drunk.




Which was exactly where he was. But afterwards, Spike let his rage explode. He snapped demon neck after demon neck. Fights usually gave him comfort, but not tonight. Nothing seemed to numb the pain.

Tipsy, Spike made it to his crypt. He opened the door and stumbled inside. Manic laughter spilled from his throat.

The world was some screwed up place. It didn’t follow the rules anymore. Vampire = evil. Slayer = good. Vampire + slayer = enemies. Death = gone.

Spike tossed his duster to the raggedy chair before his television. Then he found the ladder. Funny, he was sure he had left the trapdoor closed before leaving. He missed his footing once while going down. He hadn’t been this smashed in a long while.

He fumbled in the dark over to the bed. He threw himself down upon it.

“Eeep!”

Spike jumped up. He studied the spot he had landed on.

“B-Buffy? Is that you?” he questioned.

She brought the silk sheet to her chin. She stared up at him. “I like your bed,” she said.

He blinked, confused. “Is that so?”

“Yeah. The rugs and chairs are a nice touch as well. Homey.”

The vampire reached over and turned on a light. Television, fridge, lights, furniture, rugs . . . he’s practically domestic. The slayer and her friends had ruined him.

Spike stared her down. She hugged the sheet to her, clearly uncomfortable.

“Are you naked under there?” Spike found himself asking.

Her eyes widened. “What!?”

He smirked. “Just curious.”

Buffy threw the black sheets off her form. She lay there fully clothed to his disappointment.

“Buffy, what are you doing here?”

“I uh. . . “She sat up. “I wanted to see you.”

“Uh huh.” His mind was clearing now, and he felt the familiar throb of soberness coming on. Sometimes it sucked being a vampire. Alcohol didn’t have as much effect on them as the regular Joe down the street.

Buffy fumbled with her hands. Spike eyed them, realizing they were still unattended. He left her side to retrieve the first aid kit. There wasn’t really a good reason for a vampire to own such a thing. He had stolen it a year ago, when his infatuation had started. He didn’t want to be empty handed if his slayer turned up bleeding to death.

He removed the gauze. He knelt, took her hands gently, and began to wrap them.

Taking in a breath, Buffy said, “How long was I gone?”

Spike looked up from his ministrations. “Hundred forty-seven days yesterday. Uh ... hundred forty-eight today.” He smiled slightly. “ 'Cept today doesn't count, does it?”

He could have sworn Buffy was about to cry.

“How long was it for you ... where you were?”

“Longer.” Her voice came out small and with great emotion.





So long. Forever really, Buffy thought. I’ve been forever without you. I’ve never really even had you. What would it be like to have you?

Buffy’s hands twitched. She longed to reach up and touch him, to smash his mouth down upon hers. She remembered the way he tasted. The taste of bourbon and blood should have been vile, but mixed together with the sweetness of Spike it turned into honey.

Spike finished the task of wrapping her scrapes. He stood up and shut the first aid kit.

“Willow's getting pretty strong, isn't she? Bringing you back. It's hard to get a good night's death around here,” he said.

Buffy didn’t quite know how to respond to that.

Spike began to pace.

“I do remember what I said. The promise. To protect her. . . If I had done that ... even if I didn't make it ... you wouldn't have had to jump.”

Oh God. Buffy’s eyes burned. This time around his words hit closer to her heart.

“But I want you to know I did save you. Not when it counted, of course, but ... after that. Every night after that. I'd see it all again ... do something different. Faster or more clever, you know? Dozens of times, lots of different ways ... Every night I save you.”

Buffy couldn’t help it. A trickle of water escaped her eye. She couldn’t move, couldn’t speak, could only gaze up at the blond vampire as the tears fell.

Spike ran a hand through his hair. “Every night,” he whispered.

Spike abruptly stopped. Stricken, by the sight of her tears, he came over and wiped them away. “Don’t cry.”

She buried her face in his chest. “Just hole me,” she murmured.

Awkwardly, he placed his arms around her small frame. She cried for Spike’s guilt, his pain from her dying, her loss of heaven, his death in the future . . . and also from happiness. Happiness that he was there now, that she was there now, that they were there together.

When Buffy left she had made a decision. This time would be different. She would make things right. She’d take things slow, and Spike and she would end up all right. Not only them, though, but also Xander and Anya, and Willow and Tara. Everything would be as it should be.

______________________________________

Yeah, I know, she didn’t kiss him and confess to her smoldering love. Maybe later. But right now she wants to take it slow and do things right. And hey, he did hold her. That’s something.

Chapter 5- Too Many Maybes

When Buffy returned she was greeted by the entire household. Dawn stood near the living room entrance, dressed in her cloud pajamas and pink slippers. Tara and Willow sat next to each other on the couch. The red-head was huddled in Tara's arms, the other witch shushing soothingly. Buffy furrowed her brow at the sight of Willow's swollen eyes.

"What'd I miss?" Buffy asked.

Dawn's head whipped toward her. "Buffy? Where have you been?"

"I-I went out to patrol. Couldn't sleep."

Dawn nodded. Buffy knew her sister was aware of where she had really been.

Tara glanced up from her troubled lover. "Willow had a bad dream."

The slayer narrowed her eyes at that. A dream shouldn't have caused this kind of commotion. It had to have been more than a mere nightmare to coax the wiccans downstairs and arouse her sister. She sent Tara a look that said 'Please elaborate'.

"It. . . It was bad," Tara said.

Willow lifted her head. "It seemed so real."

Buffy took a step further into the room. "What'd you dream, Wills?"

"I . . ." She looked over at Tara. "We were in our room. We had just woken up, I think. We were smiling and laughing and . . . then . . ." Her voice wavered. She clutched onto Tara.

"I got shot," Tara finished.

The dim light was just enough for Buffy to catch the shimmering in her best friend's eyes. She turned toward Dawn, who must have been thinking the same thing. This all sounded too familiar.

"Buffy, what do your slayer dreams feel like?"

"Wh-What?"

"It was so real, Buffy. I could smell the blood. I could see her eyes go dark as I cradled-" She let out a sob.

Buffy came over and sat on the other side of Willow. She touched her shoulder. She felt Willow shake.

"No. It wasn't a premonition. It was only a dream. It meant nothing," Buffy lied.

"I'll put her back to bed," Tara offered.

Buffy nodded.

She watched as Tara helped Willow off the couch and toward the upstairs. Then she shifted her gaze to fall on Dawn. The teenager had a frown on her face. They were silent for a long time.

"Do you think -?" Dawn started.

"I don't know, Dawnie. Maybe."

A paused passed between them.

"It doesn't mean we can't prevent it," Buffy said.

"Should we tell them?"

The question hit hard. Buffy mulled it over. She had decided that keeping things secret was bad. Telling her friends might help them to make better choices. But it would also cause grief. Lots of grief.

"Let's hold off. We will if we have to."

"Okay."

Buffy glanced at the clock. "It's late. You have school tomorrow."

"Do I have to go? My brain has two years more knowledge than what it is supposed -"

"No," Buffy interrupted, sternly.

Pouting, she said, "Thought so."

She came over to give Buffy a hug. The two siblings embraced, taking their time about it.

"Goodnight," Dawn said.

"Goodnight," Buffy reiterated.

Dawn headed toward her room, Buffy behind her. Suddenly she halted. She spun around.

"Hey, where's the demon?"

"Huh?"

"That demon Willow created. It didn't show up."

Buffy blinked, holding onto the banister. This all wasn't settling right.

Dawn shrugged. "Maybe the universe knows what we did. It knows that you already were brought back before and so it didn't make us pay a price."

Buffy didn't know what to think. She was at a total loss.

"Maybe," Buffy said.

They continued on their way to bed.

Chapter 6- Heaven

Buffy awoke, knowing what she had to do. She may have decided not to tell Xander and Willow about traveling into the past, but there was something she had to confess. The sooner the better. Keeping it inside would only make it harder.

She made lunch for Dawn and caught up with her sister on her way out.

"Dawn!"

Buffy ran out, carrying the paper-sack. Inside was a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, a granola bar, banana, and fruit drink. It wasn't the most glamorous meal but it was better than the vending machine food she was sure Dawn would eat otherwise.

Dawn spun around. "What?"

Handing the bag over, Buffy said, "Lunch."

Dawn grinned. "Thanks."

Buffy smiled back, but it faded after a moment.

"I'm telling them today."

Dawn sobered. "Are you sure they're ready? Are 'you' ready?"

"I have to."

They hugged.

"I wish I could be there for you. If you want I could stay," Dawn said.

"Nice try," Buffy said. "But no."

"I'm not trying to ditch," Dawn defended. "I'm seriously just trying to offer my support. This is more important than school."

"I appreciate it, but I'll be fine. Now hurry up before you're late."

After Dawn left, Buffy stood there for awhile. She closed her eyes and breathed in deeply. The sun shone down on her and warmed her face.

I can do this, she thought.

She made her feet travel across town to The Magic Box. She mustered her courage and reached for the door handle. Something occurred to her and she pulled back.

Spike. He should be here. He was part of the gang whether the others liked it or not. She knew exactly where to find him.

Buffy rounded the building. She stepped into the alley near the back of the shop. She spotted Spike. They both stopped immediately at the other's presence.

He shoved his hands into his duster. "Slayer."

Buffy glanced up at the sky. Clouds had passed over, concealing the sun. He was safe for now.

"Were you headed inside?" she asked.

"That was the plan, yeah."

"Good. I have something to say to everyone."

He seemed surprised by that. It was probably the fact that she actually wanted him included in the Scooby meeting.

"Right, lead the way," he said.

They headed in through the training room. Heads turned their way when they passed into the main part of the store. Tara sat in a chair, with Willow standing next to her. The couple was putting books on a shelf. Xander and Anya stood by the research table.

Willow gave Buffy a smile. "Buffy, hey," she greeted.

Xander noticed Spike. He frowned, but other than that chose to ignore him.

"Hey, you get Dawn off to school all right? 'Cause I was thinking, if you need help picking her up, I..."

"It's okay. I got it." Buffy fumbled with her hands. "Look, you guys, um, there's this thing I gotta say . . . so, uh, here goes."

Buffy snuck a peek at Spike. He leaned against a shelf, eyeing her with concern. She wished that she could take his hand. It wasn't the fact that her friends were watching that restrained her from doing so, but the fear that it was too soon. She didn't want to screw things up with him again. Still, him being there gave her a little confidence.

Everyone stared at Buffy expectantly. Her eyes darted around.

"You brought me back." She swallowed. This is it. "I was . . . I wasn't . . . God this is hard."

Willow took a step toward her. "Buffy?"

"I was in heaven."

Buffy met Willow's eyes. She saw horror there. For a second, just a second, Buffy felt guilty.

Tara stood up. She looked as if she were trying to decide what to do. She ended up rubbing Willow's arm.

"Oh God," Willow said.

"Buffy, we didn't know," Xander proclaimed.

Spike remained silent. His expression spoke a thousand words, though. It was dark and menacing.

"What was it like?" Anya abruptly asked.

Xander turned toward his fiancé. "Ahn, not now," he scolded.

She shut up.

Willow was about ready to fall. Tara wrapped a strong arm around her.

"I'm so sorry!" Willow cried. "If I'd known."

Buffy should have been angry. Two years ago she probably would have shouted at the red-head about the laws of nature. Instead she felt calm and level-headed.

"I know," she said. She scanned the group. "No one knew. There isn't much I can say. I was happy. Warm. Loved."

Tears silently fell down Willow's cheeks. She leaned heavily against her girlfriend.

"You took me away from that. I'm not blaming you, but I can't say I'm happy about it." Buffy paused. "What's done is done. There is no taking it back. I'm here and I'm just going to have to deal with that."

No one spoke. No one knew how to proceed.

Buffy gave them all a meaningful look before exiting the shop. She walked over to the memorable packing crate outside. She sat down and took a breather.

It was done. The notion didn't bring any comfort.

She heard footsteps and raised her head. Spike stepped in front of her.

"Ran out of there mighty quick," he said.

"Needed to get away. To be alone," she said.

"Oh, uh, right."

He started to leave. He stopped at the edge of the shade, realizing the sun had come out.

"I can be alone with you here."

He turned back around. "Thanks ever so."

He took a moment to study her. "Are you okay?" he asked.

"I will be."

"If you ever need anything . . . If there is anything I can do . . ."

She gave him a tiny smile. "You can't. But thanks for offering. It means a lot. More than you know."

Spike stared at her. She shifted in her seat, uncomfortable by the attention.

He came over and sat beside her.

"Do you wanna talk about it?"

She didn't. She didn't want to remember the peace she had left behind. Someday she'd go back there. But not yet. Right now she had to concentrate on living.

Buffy moved to grab his hand. It hadn't felt right inside, but here and now it did. He tilted his head to the side, questionably. Then he squeezed her fingers in unison.

They gazed out into the sun together.


I just love that ending part. Hope you do too.

Chapter 7- Bring on the Green Stuff



Buffy lurked in the dark. She surveyed her surroundings with caution. She passed the stairs to face a leaking pipe. She looked up at it with disdain.



“So we meet again Mr. Drippy,” she said.



The stairs creaked. Buffy turned to see Dawn.



“You aren’t going to try and fix it again, are you?”



“I’ve learned my lesson.”



“Good.” The brunette held up a cordless phone. “I’ve got the number for the plumber. Want me to call?”



A sigh escaped the slayer. “Please do.”



She heard Dawn dial the number and request for assistance. What was that they had needed? Full copper re-pipe. That was it. She shut her eyes. We can’t pay for it. She wished the new high school was done being built. Then she could go hang around it until she met up with Principal Wood.



A couple hours later Buffy leaned against the kitchen island. She sipped at a cup of coffee. Dawn sat across from her, munching on a bowl of Captain Crunch cereal. Willow and Tara giggled, popping marshmallows from a Lucky Charms box into each others mouth. Occasionally the sisters would shoot amused smiles to the other over the display.

The basement door opened. Xander and a man emerged. The man carried a toolbox.



“And a big Sunnydale round of applause for Tito the Amazing plumber extraordinaire,” Xander said.



“So, how’s everything looking down there?” Tara questioned.



“Tito says that if you waited any longer it would have flooded. Then we would have had to start gathering up two of every animal.”



“Basically the pipes are shot,” Tito said. “I mean the whole system’s gonna have to be replaced. What you need is a full copper re-pipe job.”



Willow came over. “Full copper re-pipe? That sounds potentially pricey.”



Tito handed her a piece of paper. She scanned it, her eyes getting large.



“Well, if you have any questions our number’s on the invoice,” Tito informed. He patted Xander on the shoulder and then left.



Dawn hopped down from her stool. She went over to peek at the invoice. Willow pulled it away.

“Tell me that’s the phone number at the bottom,” Dawn said.

“Hey, Tito cut you a good deal down there. Those are bargain prices.” He glanced at Buffy. “I did a little haggling for you.”

Buffy smiled. “Thank you.” She bit her lip. “We’ll have to pay him. No big. I’ll just get a job.”

All eyes fell on her.

“What?”

Dawn looked sympathetic. “Don’t work at The Doublemeat,” she begged.

“I hear Burger Hut is hiring,” Xander said.

“Hey, Buffy can do better than that,” Tara protested.

“Money’s an issue. If Buffy has to get a temporary -,” Willow began.

“Willow’s right,” Buffy interrupted. “I’ll do what I have to do.” She looked at Dawn. “Even employ myself at The Doublemeat hell.”

+ + +

Filling out job applications sucked. Every one was the exact same. Name, education history, address, phone number, age, past employment (not that she had any. Not in this time anyway). . .

She steered clear of the fast food joints. She wouldn’t go there until she found it necessary.

The Expresso Pump was particularly rude. The cashier gave her a disapproving glare before practically throwing the application in her face. She almost hoped they wouldn’t call.

The bookstore guy was nice enough. He handed the form to her let her sit in one of the reading chairs to fill it out. When she returned it, however, he wanted to chat.

“It is always nice to meet another bookworm,” he said. He pushed his wire rim glasses further up his nose.

She let out a nervous laugh.

“Ever read The Time Machine? It’s my favorite book.”

She made the mistake of saying, “I saw that one. Didn’t know they made a novelization from the film.”

He frowned at her.

Buffy realized too late that The Time Machine must have been based off a book instead of the other way around. I didn’t stay in college long enough, she thought. This was Giles’s ideal job, not hers. She left, not holding her breath about getting hired.

She also applied at the video store. The gang would be pleased if she got that one. Free rentals. Her last stop was the 24 hour coffee shop. Buffy liked coffee, and she knew how to make, it so why not? True, she wasn’t familiar with the fancy cappuccino, lattes, etcetera, but she could learn.

Buffy remembered going into the place once when it used to be a bookstore. Giles had dragged her in when it first opened up. It sure had changed since then. It was bright, with red booths, checkered floor, and a counter with stools. There was a jukebox near the entrance.

Buffy swept her eyes over the menu. Ooo, frozen coffees! There was a picture of the banana one with whipped cream. She wondered if they gave employees free drinks.

“Can I help you?” a young woman asked. Her nametag said Amie.

Relief ran through Buffy. No cow uniform. Instead Amie was wearing an apron.

“Yes, I’d like an application,” Buffy said with a smile.

“Oh, sure.”

Amie reached down below the cash register. She was about to hand over the application when there was a scream. Buffy turned just in time to see a man get tossed through the window. Glass went everywhere.

The door flew open to reveal a large demon. He had ridges and fins on his head. He let out a loud roar.

Buffy groaned. “Oh, look, it’s the mmmm cookie monster,” she grumbled.

“Slayer,” he growled.

She took in his clothing. He had on a black shirt beneath a red one, with grey slacks and a belt. “Are you trying to blend in? Sorry, I don’t think it’s work.”

She looked around for a weapon. They must have a knife somewhere.

Suddenly Buffy felt herself being grabbed. She was shoved behind the counter.

“Hey!” she protested.

“You seriously aren’t going to fight him?” a male voice said.

She squirmed in his grasp. “You think I can’t take him?”

She broke away to see the guy who was trying to act as her savior. He was cute in the boy-next-door way. His nametag read Rick.

She stood up. “I know you mean well, Rick, but I can-“

The demon was gone. She let out a sigh of frustration.

Buffy found Amie. “About my application . . .”

Amie blinked.

“What happened to my shop?” boomed a man.

Buffy lifted her head to see what must be the owner.

“Who made this mess?”

Amie pointed at Buffy.

“Get out!”

+ + +

“They kicked you out? That’s crazy!” Willow was shocked.

“Yeah, that’s what happened all right,” Buffy said.

The slayer punched at the punching bag wildly.

“I can’t believe it,” Willow went on. “It isn’t fair.”

Buffy kept hitting the swinging bag.

“You weren’t responsible for the demon raiding the shop.”

Buffy stopped and steadied the punching bag. She closed her eyes. “I wish the council would pay me.”

“Kinda hard when you keep telling them off. Not that that isn’t a good thing. Because it is. They need to be put in their place.”

“Yeah.”

Talking about the council made Buffy realize something. Her eyes popped back open. Giles would show up in a few moments. She smiled.

+ + +



“Here he is,” Dawn declared as Buffy came out of the training room. She propped up an old book. “He’s called Mmm-Fashnik.”

“Or ‘Muh’-Fashnik,” Xander commented.

Buffy sneaked a grin at her sister. “I’m with Dawn. Like Mmm cookies, right?”

“That’s him,” Buffy continued. “Big bad. This thing was strong, guys. No weapons that I could see, but . . .”

She sensed something and lifted her head. “Still . . . real . . . dangerous.”

Giles stared at his thought-of daughter. He dropped his bags near the entrance. Then he started toward her.

“Oh God, Buffy,” he said. A giant smile formed on his lips.

Buffy smiled back. She was ready for his hug. She closed her eyes with emotion.

“You’re alive. You’re here. And you’re still . . . remarkably strong.”

A laugh escaped Buffy. She let go. “Sorry.”

Giles studied her face. “Willow told me, but I didn’t really let myself believe.”

“Seeing is believing.”

“Yes, well, I’m still having difficulty believing what my eyes are telling me.”

“There’s no need to clean your glasses. I’m real.”

“It’s uh . . . you’re a . . .”

“Miracle,” Buffy inserted.

“Yes. But then I always thought so.”

He put a hand to her cheek. The others watched the scene happily.

+ + +

Giles watched her as she made up the small couch. The sheets and pillow case had bright kiddie patterns all over them. She looked over apologetically after tucking in the sheets.

“I know they’re so cute you could die. Sorry. Mom used to handle this stuff. I have no idea where she hid the guest sheets,” Buffy said.

“Quite all right.” He added the pillow to the bed-substitute.

“I blame the sofa. We need one of those pull-out kinds.” She sighed. “Maybe after I get a job. I’ve been looking.”

He eyed her in surprise. “Really?”

Buffy sat down. “Yeah. I don’t qualify for an office job, but I’ve been filling applications out.”

Squeezing her hand, he said, “I wish you the best of luck.”

There was a span of silence. She shifted in her seat under his scrutiny.

“What is it?” she asked.

“Oh, uh . . .” He cleared his throat.

“The others told you, didn’t they?”

He snatched off his glasses. He continued to clean them. “Considering the circumstances I find your adjustment quite remarkable.”

Buffy stared across the room. “I’m like that. Wonder girl.”

“Yes, you certainly are.”

“I’m all right,” she assured him.

+ + +

Later that night Giles ventured into the kitchen. He found Willow at the island. A box of cookies sat on the surface but she paid no attention to them. It was dark, but if the light had been on Giles would have caught her bloodshot eyes.

“You have a good talk with Buffy?” Willow managed to get out.

“Yes, now that she is back,” Giles replied.

The witch glanced down at her hands.

“Tell me about this spell you performed.”

“I’d rather not.”

He turned toward her sternly. “You can’t do something of this notion and . . .! You are a very stupid girl!”

“Don’t you think I know that!?” Tears formed in her eyes. It wasn’t long before they slid down her face. “I sucked my best friend out of heaven.”

Giles stood there a moment. Finally he reached out and put a comforting arm around the young woman, yet still a little girl in many ways.

+ + +

Buffy stood at the front porch. In her right hand was a large sward. She seemed a tad bored.

“M is for cookies, and cookies are for me,” she sang absently.

“I don’t get you, Summers,” came a voice.

Buffy’s head shot up. She took in Spike. His dark form merged into the night, but his bright hair set him aside.

“Hello, Spike.”

He gestured to her weapon. “And what is that for exactly?”

She held up the sward. “I’m waiting for the cookie monster.” She burst out laughing.

He raised an eyebrow. “You know, the bit and you get weirder everyday.”

Spike took a step forward. He nodded toward the house. “You hear that?”

She followed his gaze. “No. Are Willow and Giles fighting?”

“No, but I think the witch feels a bit guilty.”

With a sigh, Buffy sat down on the top step. “Am I a horrible person if I say she should be?”

Spike sat down next to her. “Wrong person to ask.”

The two sat together in silence for a few moments. She was greatly aware of his presence. Too aware. He was so close. He shifted, brushing against her hand. Oh God.

Would it be too soon to kiss him?

She had always had a weak spot for him when he was like this. He was so open and concerned. This was Spike as his truest self.

All of a sudden Buffy’s slayer senses set off the alarms. She scanned the darkness and then hopped to her feet. She clutched her sword tightly.

“Just a sec,” she told Spike.


The demon rushed at her. She leveled her sword and swung. The blade passed through his neck like butter. His head fell from his body and hit the ground. The rest of him followed. She let her bloody sword slip from her hands.

She spun around.

“Do I have demon goo on me?”

Spike smirked. “Not that I can see. Was that the cookie monster, pet?”

“Yep. No more cookies for him,” she said. She made her way back over to the steps.

“Looks different from what I remember the kiddies watchin.”

“It’s like they say,” Buffy said. “You always look different on TV.”

With that, Buffy sat back down beside her vampire, very pleased with herself.

Chapter 8- And So It Happens Again (Sorta)

She wasn’t prepared for the call. She knew it was coming, but she still wasn’t ready. The voice sent ice up her spine, freezing her in place. It always had that effect on her since he moved away.
She still loved him. She probably always would. But . . . Things were different now. They didn’t belong together. Given the chance, she wasn’t sure she would accept the opportunity.
Their meeting was strained.
Angel gave her a welcome hug. She closed her eyes and held him back. When they pulled back he stared at her for a long time.
“Buffy,” he whispered.
She gave him a smile.
They talked, and that was nice. But she could see it in his eyes. His heart was totally consumed by her. It made her uncomfortable. He hadn’t moved on, whereas she had.
“I’m cookie-dough,” she blurted out.
“What?”
Ding, I’m done.
“Nothing, I’ll explain it all later,” she said.
Apparently it wasn’t time for this conversation.
They parted ways. She saw the wrenching longing in Angel’s eyes as he walked away. A stab of guilt jabbed her heart. She had no trouble saying goodbye.
Maybe she didn’t love him the same way she used to after all.
Buffy didn’t bother to pick up chicken on her way back.
“Hello?” she called as she let herself into the house.
“Buffy,” Willow answered.
Confusion spread over Buffy. They weren’t in the dining room this time. She headed to the living room.
“Hey.”
Tara, Willow, and Dawn all sat on the sofa. Dawn glanced over.
“We didn’t know when you’d get back. We decided to wait with a movie. But we haven’t eaten yet,” Dawn said, her face bright.
The gesture warmed Buffy. She looked down at her empty hands.
“I-I didn’t pick up anything,” she confessed. Damnit.
“That’s all right,” Tara quickly said. “S-Someone can go get something.”
“I’ll do it. How does chicken sound?” Buffy suggested.
“Fine, but I can go fetch it. You just got back.” Willow said.
The red-head stood up. She headed to the door. Before leaving she gave Buffy a friendly squeeze.
“How’d it go?”
“Oh, uh . . . ya know. Intense. I don’t really want to talk about it.”
“Oh. Sure.”
Buffy went into the living room. She plopped down next to her sister.
“Where’s Giles?” the slayer asked.
Tara seemed surprised she would ask.
“I think Mr. Giles is at the magic shop helping Anya,” the witch informed.
Buffy furrowed her brow.
“Okay.”
Dawn shot Buffy a look. She shrugged.
+ + +
The next day Buffy went out to apply for more jobs. She strolled down the street, in the direction of the clothing store. She tried to remember what was in style now as she neared.
Somebody bumped into her, drawing her out of her daze. She swayed. Some people could be so rude. She continued to the store.
The place was full of flares, shoes, and colorful tops. Buffy made her way to the service desk.
“Hi, can I-?”
All of a sudden things went hazy. There was a buzz.
“Miss? Miss?”
Buffy blinked. The clerk frowned at her.
“Can I help you?”
Buffy opened her mouth.
The buzz sounded again.
“Miss, I’m going to have to ask you to leave.”
“I’m sorry,” Buffy apologized.
She turned and exited the store. People on the sidewalk zoomed past.
“Those twerps!” Buffy exclaimed.
She searched her sweater. She took it off. Her finger came across a small metal dot on the sleeve. She snatched it up into her palm. The device abruptly disintegrated.
The world went back to normal.
Buffy stood there for a few moments. She came to a decision.
Those geeks needed to be stopped right away before they got out of hand.
+ + +
Warren fell into a beanbag chair. “Okay, score me.”
Jonathan pondered. “Rrrright. Fifty points for ingenuity, another thirty since it involved actual contact.”
“Very smooth by the way,” Andrew added.
A grin came to Warren’s mouth.
“On the freak-o-meter she was at a zero, though,” Jonathan said.
“Yeah, what’s up with that?” Andrew questioned.
Just then the van door was ripped open. A very pissed-off slayer stood there. She had her arms crossed. Jonathan and Andrew squealed and cowered away.
The slayer!” Andrew cried. “She found us.”
Jonathan just stared in fright.
“How’d you discover our evil deeds?” Andrew asked.
Buffy rolled her eyes. “You are so pathetic.” She glanced around the van.
Warren stood up. His eyes were cold.
“Okay, come with me quietly and no one has to get hurt.”
Jonathan reached over and grabbed his magic bone. Buffy entered the van and snatched it away.
“Hey!” the little man protested.
Buffy snapped the bone in two. She threw it back at Jonathan.
Andrew held up his hand, wooden pipes in his clutch. He began to bring them up to his lips. Buffy struggled with the nerd. Andrew bumped a button in his struggle. Star Wars music filtered into their ears. Again, Buffy stole one of their toys. She let the pipes drop and then smashed them with her heel.
“Ah!” Andrew shrieked.
Buffy grabbed both boys and pushed them out of the black van. She turned back to retrieve Warren. She was halted by a mist of green smoke. She coughed. She heard the screech of tires.
When the smoke cleared Warren and the van were long gone.
“He left us in the clutches of our arch nemesis!” Andrew yelled.
Jonathan shrunk back. “Are you going to hurt us?”
“Not if you cooperate,” Buffy said.
She dragged them off toward her house.
+ + +
Dawn entered the house. She stopped dead. Laughter spilled out of her. She doubled over, finding it hard to breath. Jonathan and Andrew were tied to the stair railing.
“The slayer’s sister mocks us,” Andrew said.
Dawn’s laughter lessened. “I have a name. Dawn.”
“Buffy!” Dawn shouted.
A few moments later Buffy came into view.
Dawn pointed to the nerd duo. “What’s up with them?”
“I managed to catch them in the act. Warren got away.” The last part was said with loathing.
“What are you going to do with them?”
Buffy shrugged. “Don’t know yet.”
“Can I torture them?” Dawn asked. She eyed the nerds crazily.
“Go ahead. But don’t kill them.”
“Do you mind watching them while I go out patrolling?” Buffy inquired.
“No problem. I’ll keep them company.”
Jonathan and Andrew didn’t like the sound of that.
“Thanks, Dawnie.”
+ + +
“Life is stupid,” Buffy complained. She tossed back a shot of alcohol.
Spike smiled.
The both sat in the crypt. A flask of whiskey was at arms length.
“I have a dim memory of that, yeah.” Spike put his shot glass down. “And I didn't figure you were here cadging my whiskey 'cause life's all full of blood and peaches.”
Buffy stared down at her half-full glass. “It’s just . . . My life is messed up. I think I know how to fix it, but it is going to be hard. Like, for instance, money. I need a job. I’ve been applying everywhere but no job. My last alternative is The Doublemeat. And I so don’t want to go there.”
“That place’ll kill ya,” Spike commented.
“I know.”
Buffy swallowed the last of her drink. She made a face and went ‘blah’. Spike smiled at her cuteness.
“Give it a few days. You’ll find something else. What you need is a night off. To forget your problems.”
“What do you suggest?”
Smirking, Spike said,” I’ll show you a good time.”
+ + +
Buffy had promised herself not to get drunk. All she wanted was to feel a little tipsy. She failed. She was well into the slurred-speech and impaired judgment phase.
They entered Willy’s bar, Buffy swaying on her feet. The place practically shook with loud rock music. It was crowded with drinking demons.
“Sss-pike,” the bartender greeted. He had a forked tongue the slithered. Spike nodded to him in response.
“The usual, Dave, and one for the lady. We’re headed for the back room, pet.”
Buffy reached for the shot glass instead of the whole bottle this time. She got it down in one swallow. As she did, she scrunched up her features and let out ‘ghah’.
Spike grabbed her arm. He led her toward the back. “This is where the real action is.”
The pair came to a small room. There were shelves along the wall that held alcoholic cartons. A green-topped table stood next to the far end. Four demons played cards around it. One had many eyes, another had tentacles, the next had horns, and the last one had saggy skin.
Buffy’s eyes widened at the loose-skinned demon. “Clem! Oh my gosh, it is so good to see you!”
Clem glanced up from the game. He gave Spike a weird look.
Buffy bit her lip, realizing her mistake. She attempted to cover it up. “Oh, um, Spike mentioned you.”
Spike rose an eyebrow, but didn’t say anything.
“You in, Spike?” the green-skinned demon with horns asked.
“Yeah. Count me in.”
“He kills our kind, don’t let him in,” the many eyed thing said.
Spike hauled the demon up out of his seat and took his place.
Buffy crossed her arms. “Is this what you do every night? This isn’t my idea of fun.”
He ignored her.
The demons each produced a kitten, and placed it into a basket.
The slayer had had enough of this. She came over and knocked the basket over.
“Be free, kitties,” she said. She dropped them to the floor.
The cats meowed and ran away.
“They’re getting away,” a demon hollered. He got up to chase them.
Buffy stormed out of the poker room. She was almost out of the bar when Spike grabbed her. She yanked out of his grasp.
“What’s wrong, luv?”
“What’s wrong!? You-You. . . Vampire! I can’t believe I forgot how vampirish you could be!”
The tenderness vanished from Spike’s face. “Sorry to disappoint you. But despite the fact that I trail after you and your mates, I am in fact a ‘vampire’.”
Her green eyes hardened. She gestured toward the back room. “I can’t believe you brought me here. Whisky and poker are not romantic gestures.”
Spike stared, stunned.
“I thought you would take me on a walk, or star gaze, or ‘Something’. God, I miss the soul!”
She was hot, hot with anger and with alcohol. She didn’t know what was spilling out of her mouth.
“What was that?” Spike asked.
Buffy shook her head. She turned and stomped off.
+ + +
Giles handed Buffy a glass of water. She took it gratefully. She looked as if a train had smashed into her.
“Feel any better?” he asked in a soothing voice.
“I’m never doing that again,” she said. “And I mean it this time.”
“This time? . . . Wait, no, I don’t want to know.”
She gave him a small smile before setting the glass down on the bedside table. Then she sat on the bed. She grabbed the afghan off the bed and held it in her lap. Giles placed himself by her side.
A long sigh escaped Buffy. She fingered the fringe on afghan. “I’m going to get a job at the Doublemeat tomorrow,” she whispered.
“Oh, Buffy . . . You should go easy on yourself. You’re pushing yourself too hard.”
“The nice people from the phone company think it isn’t hard enough. Giles, I’ve made up my mind.”
Just then the phone rang. The slayer instantly jumped up. She grabbed the phone. Giles watched his slayer talk softly into the phone. It was mostly ‘uh huh, okay, and I see’.
“Really? That sounds great! Tomorrow is fine,” Buffy practically squealed.
She slammed the phone back down in its cradle. She turned toward Giles. A huge grin was plastered on her face.
“I got a job!”
“Buffy, that is wonderful.” He smiled.
“Yeah. I am now an official employee at the video store. I get free rentals and everything. Oh God, I have to go tell Dawn. She is going to freak.”
With that, Buffy fled the room. Giles stood. He stared at the door for a moment, his smile faltering. He reached into his pocket and produced a check. He sighed and then tore it in half.

Chapter 9- It’s Party Time

Halloween. The one day out of the year when the real monsters slept, and the fake ones prowled. It was also supposedly the slayer’s day . . . er night off. But Buffy unfortunately had another job to do. She was helping out at the Magic Box for a little extra cash.

The store hadn’t been this busy since its grand opening. Buffy was exhausted, and that was saying a lot since she had super-strength. There wasn’t a moment’s pause between customers. She didn’t remember it being so insane last time.

Anya skated past in her Farrah Fawcett costume.

“We’re running low on mandrake root,” Buffy said. “I’ll check the basement.”

“Good idea,” Anya said. “Are you sure you don’t want to consider a position here? You are doing a fabulous job.”

Buffy shook her head. “No thanks.”

She went over to the cellar entrance. She headed down. She reached the bottom of the stairs and turned. She jumped out of surprise when she spotted Spike.

“Ah! Don’t do that! I need to get you a little bell collar,” Buffy rambled. She laughed. She had forgotten that Spike would be there.

Spike gazed at her, expressionless.

Buffy’s humor faltered. “What?”

“Thought you wouldn’t be talking to me.”

“Oh. Forget about last night. I was totally loopy.” She motioned circles around her ear.

He eyed her with such intensity that it made her squirm.

She reached over and grabbed some vines. Then she handed them over. “Here. Burba weed, right?”

He narrowed his eyes.

She pulled back the vines. “That’s why you came, isn’t it? Goes good in blood?”

“How’d you know I liked burba weed?”

“I uh . . . “She faltered, lowering the burba weed.

He reached out and took the burba weed. Their fingers touched. She snatched her hand back, on fire from the contact.

“I know you were going to steal it. I’ll give Anya the money. I’m working girl now so I can spare a few bucks.”

Tilting his head, he studied her with curiosity. “Heard that, yeah. Why you’d lend me your good earned cash, though, I have no idea.”

Buffy fumbled with her hands. “Maybe I like you.”

A snort came from the vampire. Buffy lifted her head to meet his eyes. There must have been something in her expression because he became serious.

“Buffy?” Spike whispered.

The air crackled. This is it, Buffy thought. I should kiss him.

Just then the door above creaked.

“Buffy, we need that mandrake root!” Anya’s voice shouted from up the stairs. “What is keeping you!?”

Buffy turned her head from Spike. She grabbed the jar of mandrake root.

“I better get this upstairs,” she blurted.

Buffy rushed back into the store, her heart racing. Spike was left, watching her retreat in bafflement.

+ + +

Everyone was pooped. Dawn closed the door and leaned against it.

“Okay, I was polite with the ‘come agains’, but really I hope they don’t,” the teen commented.

From his position on the floor, Xander grunted in agreement. Giles and Buffy sat nearby, and Willow and Tara sat in chairs at the table. They all looked about ready to pass out. Only Anya, at the register, was cheery and upbeat. She grinned hugely and opened the drawer to count the money.

“That was the most incredible thing I have ever experienced,” she exclaimed.

Xander lifted himself slightly up to give her a look.

“Except for that,” she told him.

Dawn made her way over to Anya.

“What you all did for me tonight ... the astounding heaps of money you helped me ...us acquire. All I can say is, I hope we make as much tomorrow.”

Buffy raised her hand. “Can’t. I start at Video Haven tomorrow.”

“Oh.” Anya frowned. She surveyed the group. “But the rest of you are free for the post-holiday sale, right?”

There were moans in response.

Anya beamed. “Good.”
Giles grimaced. He got to his feet. “Brooms all around, then.”

“Or I could whip up a jaunty self-cleaning incantation, it'll be like Fantasia,” Willow offered.

“Will, I don’t think-“Buffy began.

“We all know how splendidly that turned out for Mickey,” Giles remarked.

“I think I'm a little more adept than a cartoon mouse,” Willow said.

“And you have more fingers, which is good, 'cause ...there's no need to wear those big white gloves to overcompensate,” Tara said.

The two girls smiled at each other.

Anya and Dawn caught everyone’s attention. The capitalist was teaching Dawn how to do her ‘happy dance’. They waved the bills around, turning clockwise around.

“This is fun,” said Dawn.

“A perfect end to a perfect day,” said Anya.

Xander was completely transfixed by the ex-demon. “I’m going to marry that girl,” he muttered.

His words perked Buffy up. She turned toward him. “Is there something we don’t know?”

Standing up, Xander announced, “Hey, everybody, can I um . . . there’s something Anya and I . . . wanna tell you.”

Dawn stopped her dance. She shot Buffy a smile, which her sister returned.

Xander walked over to the counter. Anya stepped up to his side.

“Now?” she asked.

“Now,” he confirmed.

He wrapped his arm around her. “We’re getting married.”

A squeal escaped Dawn.

Buffy jumped up.

“Congratulations!” Tara shouted.

Willow blinked. “That’s . . . That’s wow.”

“It’s a big wow,” Xander said.

“I thought you were waiting for the right moment,” Anya told Xander.

He squeezed her. “I did.”

The couple kissed. Buffy’s eyes misted at the sight. She reminded herself that this time this was for real. Anya and Xander were going to get married.

Anya giggled as her and Xander parted. She tossed the money into the air.

“Here, have some money!” Anya exclaimed.

Dawn snatched some dollars that floated her way.

Giles removed his glasses. He began to clean the lenses. Buffy frowned.

“Giles, quit. It isn’t that bad,” Buffy whispered.

“We have to do something for them,” Buffy went on, louder.

+ + +

About an hour later Buffy scolded herself for not grabbing decorations on the way home. How stupid could she get?

“This is just the first premarital celebration. There'll be lots more. With gifts,” Anya said.

“Sure, maybe we'll even have time to decorate for the next one,” Tara replied.

Before Buffy could react Willow had done it. In one wave of her hand there were streamers and paper lanterns. Buffy could have slapped herself.

“This is so much better than the way it usually looks. Thank you,” Anya burst out.

She gave Willow a hug.

Giles, Tara, Buffy, and Dawn all shared a disturbed look.
+
The party continued. Buffy spent the time off to the side. She watched Willow closely. The girl didn’t have any idea about the repercussions of her actions. When she saw Tara head into the kitchen she followed.

The witch poured herself a cup of soda. Then she glanced up at Buffy, surprised.

“Tara,” Buffy said, “I’m worried about Willow.”

Tara set her cup down. “I-I thought I was the only one.”

“We have to talk to her.”

Tara nodded. “I was planning on it.”

“If it’s all right I’d like to back you up. She might listen more if we both confront her.”
“Th-That sounds good.”

+ + +

They didn’t even have to leave the room. Willow came in shortly after. She grinned at them, grabbing a bag of snacks.

“Hey, guys,” she greeted.

“Will, why don’t you sit down,” Buffy suggested.

Willow stopped. She glanced from her best friend to her girlfriend. A frown appeared on her lips.

“Why the serious faces?” she asked.

“We’re concerned,” Tara said.

“What?”

“You’re using too much magic, Wills,” Buffy said. “It’s okay to use it for important stuff, but –“

“This was important!” Willow interrupted. “How can you say Xander and Anya’s party isn’t important?”

Buffy’s eyes widened. This wasn’t going well.

“That’s not what she meant,” Tara told Willow.

“I can’t believe you guys are ganging up on me,” Willow said. Her face hardened.

“We’re not ganging up on you,” Tara said.

“It sure sounds like it.”

Buffy took a step toward the red-head. “All we’re saying is that you should stop relying on the magics when you don’t need to.”

“Yeah,” agreed Tara. “One of us could have gone out to pick up some decorations.”

“Why bother? These are perfect. And extra biodegradable-y. In a couple of hours, poof!” Willow informed.

“No, they're, they're great, it's just ... why use magic when you can do something naturally?”

“Well, you can fight monsters naturally, with sticks and stones. Don't recommend it though.”

‘I statements’, Buffy thought. She remembered ‘I statements’ from school. There were better results when you used them. She looked over at Tara. In this situation it would be a ‘We statement’.

“We’re getting off the subject,” Buffy intervened. “We only feel . . . We love you, and we don’t want you to do something that could hurt yourself or others.”

Willow’s eyes burned with fire. “How are pretty decorations going to hurt someone?”
“That’s not what she meant and you know it!” Tara yelled.

Willow shook her head. “I can’t believe this.” Her gaze fell on Buffy. “You weren’t complaining about my power when I was your ‘big gun’.”

“That was different,” Buffy said.

Silence fell over the kitchen. Willow suddenly turned. She stormed out of the kitchen. Tara hurried after her.

“Will, wait!” the other witch shouted.

Buffy followed.

Willow stormed into the living room. She swiped the air, making the decorations vanish. Then she spun around to face Buffy and Tara.

“Are you happy now?” she snapped.

Opening her mouth, Buffy wasn’t quite sure what to say.

Willow fled the house. She banged the door on her way out.

Giles took his glasses off. Xander stared at the door with worry. Dawn looked ready to cry.

Anya eyed them all. “Anyone want to dance?”

Buffy shook her head.

“I have to go after her,” Tara said.

So much for changing the past, Buffy thought. She had a feeling she just might have made things worse.

___________________________________________

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