Chapter Twelve: Try

Buffy sat in the kitchen the following morning, eating a bowl of banana Cheerios. Joyce came rushing down the steps, ready for work, and was surprised to see her agile daughter.

“Morning Mom.” Buffy said, taking in a full scoop of cereal.

“Buffy, I’m surprised to see you awake. You’re usually in bed until twelve.” Joyce glanced at the clock on the microwave, and it read 9 o’clock.

“Yeah, I just felt like moving around.” Buffy smiled at her mother.

“You seem much happier with Spike around.” Joyce noticed the coffee was already made, and poured herself a cup. “I hope you haven’t been drinking that, it’s bad for the baby.”

“Nope, I made it for you. I am happier that Spike is here…he’s giving me the strength I needed most.”

“I may be babying you a bit now, but once he comes, Buffy, it’s not going to be all fun and games.” Joyce warned.

“You think I don’t know that?” Buffy questioned, attempting to control her emotions. “Everyday since I found out that I was pregnant, I’ve thought of nothing else, but what I could possibly offer this baby. I have nothing, Mom.” She felt tears burn her eyes.

“You have love…and you have me. You know that if you can’t get on your feet for a little while I’m here, and you’ll be working in the gallery fulltime, once you’re up to it. Spike’s starting today,” Joyce, informed her.

“Spike’s working at the gallery?” Buffy questioned, amazed.

“I’m surprised he hasn’t told you. If all goes well, Rupert and I will be on our way to New York, a few months after the baby is born. We’re planning on opening a second gallery.” Joyce’s eyes brightened with excitement.

“Are you serious?” Buffy asked proudly.

“Yes, and you and Spike will be able to keep this one intact until we get back.” Joyce finished her coffee, and smiled warmly at her oldest child.

Buffy stood excitedly. “I can’t believe you’re trusting me to do this!”

“All in time, Buffy. Just make sure the baby comes out healthy, and you’ll have your whole life ahead of you. You, Spike, and the baby will do wonderful.” At Joyce’s last words, Buffy felt better than she had in months.

*

“Marriage? Like ring on the finger, marching down the isles marriage?” Willow questioned, as she sat on Buffy’s bed with a book of baby names.

“Yup…the big M…I never thought it would be offered, especially not by him.” Her nose crinkled with joy.

“What was your answer?” Willow flipped through the pages carefully.

“I didn’t give him one. It was hard too, since the proposal was more of a demand.” Buffy scowled a bit.

Willow shrugged off the conversation, not wanting to get tangled in the situation. “How about Donald?”

“Don, Donnie...too New Kids On The Block. Those posters are starting to date me.” Buffy looked up at the poster of the formerly famous 80’s pop group and stuck out her tongue in disgust.

“Don’t worry…they’ll be replaced with baby pictures soon enough.” Willow stated, looking through for another name. “Brandon?”

“Too 90210.” Buffy replied.

“Earl?”

“Too old sounding.”

“Steve?”

“Too common.”

“Jonathan?”

“Wasn’t he kinda geeky in high school?” She felt like it was miles away.

“Joshua?”

Buffy contemplated it for a second. If the baby has Spike’s eyes… “Perfect… Joshua William Giles.”

“I wonder if the guys are doing this good.” Willow said with a smile, as she scribbled the name down on a piece of paper.

*

“Paul?” Xander questioned impatiently, the same book Willow had at the house with Buffy.

“Want my son to sound like some sort of wanker?” Spike questioned, as he organized the paperwork on his father’s desk. It was closing time at The Gallery, and Spike was with Oz and Xander, trying to pick out name.

“What about something cool, like Dirk or Sky?” Oz questioned simply.

Spike pondered the thought of an unlikely name. “For a hippy, yes, for me, no.”

“Because Spike is such a normal name.” Xander huffed.

“How did you get that nickname?” Oz asked curiously.

“I know how,” Xander raised his hand with a scowl. “He used to spike the ball in my face during gym class. Broke my nose once, knocked me unconscious three times.”

“Sorry bout that mate.” Spike said honestly.

Oz couldn’t contain his smirk. “He really gave it to you, huh?”

“Oh, yeah…” Xander said looking down at the book again. “How about Randy?”

“Randy Giles? Are you mad? Might as well call him Horny Giles, or Desperate for a Shag Giles! You must really want him to despise me!” Spike put up his hands in defeat. “Let’s leave this to the women.”

“Don’t you want to take part in naming your first kid?” Xander asked.

“I’m sure they’ll have lots more afterward.” Oz said, his smirk still avid.

“What’s that supposed to mean?” The brunette questioned curiously.

“I’ve proposed to Buffy.” Spike replied.

“Did she accept?” Xander stood with a bit of excitement. He had his moments with Spike, but at this point, he wanted nothing more than for Buffy to be happy.

“Not yet, but she will.”

“What makes you so sure of that?” Xander continue prodding.

“Dude, trust him.” Oz chimed in, his hands in his pockets as he stood. There was no doubt in anyone’s mind.

Buffy and Spike were going to be together, and Spike would die trying.
 

Chapter Thirteen: Hold On

As the weeks passed, and the end of August neared, Spike found himself in the midst of planning a surprise baby shower for Buffy. She was approaching her ninth month in three weeks, and the baby was about ready to join the non-couple. They spent their nights at her house, watching movies, while Buffy pigged out. But Buffy was yet to allow Spike back into her life fully.

Spike sat in his bedroom with a laptop on his lap, and his father at his side. “What the fucking bloody hell is a Diaper Genie?” He questioned out loud, looking through the Toys R Us gift registry for baby showers. He put a hand through his hair, happy that it was back to normal, a tousled mess of bleached curls.

“Something I wish they had back when you were a tot.” Giles said wistfully. He looked over at his son and smiled. “Even though your mother chose to abandon us, I never regret having you here with me.”

“Has she ever looked for me? Not that it matters because she can’t be what Jenny was to me.” Spike ensured the older man.

“She has…ever since you were born, I’ve sent her pictures, but it wasn’t until we came to Sunnydale, that she wanted to meet you. I was reluctant, and decided that I’d tell you about her when you had your own child, and let you decide whether or not you’d like to meet her.” Giles explained.

“Where does she live?” Spike asked out of curiosity.

Out of habit, Giles took off his glasses and began cleaning them with his shirt out of habit. “LA.” He replied simply. When Spike didn’t reply, Giles reluctantly said, “If you want to meet her, I’ll understand.”

“I’ll think about it.” Spike turned his attention back to the portable computer before him.

*

“Damn, B, that belly sure is getting big. Is there a basketball under there?” Buffy was surprised to see her cousin sitting at the kitchen table in her house, her aunt across from the brunette.

“Faith…what are you doing here?” Buffy questioned.

“Buffy, is that any way to greet your cousin?” Her mother came in from upstairs, with an envelope in hand.

“Sorry. Hi, Aunt Maggie, Faith…what are you doing here?”

“Just picking something up from your mother.” Maggie replied. She avoided eye contact with the teen, ashamed of her current state.

“Mom’s a little disappointed at the mini-Spike you’re carrying.” Faith let out bluntly, and received a dirty look from the older blonde.

Buffy looked at her aunt for a reply.

“Faith will never become something, but I had so much hope in your ability, Buffy. How are you going to raise this child and get a proper education?” Maggie asked.

Buffy took a seat beside her cousin, noticing for the first time that Faith was no longer wearing her usual black tightness, and red gloss. “I’m going to take care of the gallery until spring semester, and go to UC Sunnydale. Spike will be doing the same, except managing both college and the gallery at the same time.” Buffy explained.

“It’s nice to see that you have taken the illusion into consideration.” Maggie stood, and nodded at her younger sister to join her on the porch. Joyce gave her daughter a small, ‘Don’t worry, I’ll straighten her ass out,’ look and followed Maggie outside.

“Mom’s a real bitch…but things have been getting a little better.” Faith said, standing and searching the freezer for something microwaveable. Finding a Hot Pocket, she ignored the name scrawled on the plastic packaging.

“You seem to have…”

“Changed?” Faith questioned with a smile. “I don’t know. I woke up one day and decided that I didn’t like where life was taking me.”

“And Drusilla.” The name tasted bitter on Buffy’s tongue.

Faith shrugged. “Her father, Mr. Tavers…he was shipped to France on business, so she left…but not before I put a few bruises on her.”

“What happened?” Buffy asked curiously.

“Angel dumped her, and me…she blamed you…started talking shit…especially when she found out that Angel took you to your appointments. She bad mouthed you, and I may not like you as much as I should, you’re still my cousin.” Faith explained. Then, with the beep of a horn, Faith was on her way to the back door, Hot Pocket in hand. “That’s Mom, ready to go. Auntie Joyce must have really given it to her, because she does not looked happy. I’ll see you later, B.”

“Faith,” Buffy stopped the brunette from walking out the door. “Thanks.” She replied simply, and her cousin smiled in return, while leaving.

Buffy sat deep in thought, the changes her family was going through, when Andrew came out of no where and looked in the fridge. Him, being Dawn’s best friend, always popped up from time to time. It was as though he lived in the house.

“Um…Buffy, I called dibs on the last Hot Pocket and it seems to be missing. I know you’re pregnant and everything but-“

Faith interrupted the blonde boy, when she popped in, Hot Pocket in her mouth. “Forgot the envelope.” She said with the mouthful, grabbed the envelope and left.

“Hey!” Andrew whined, causing Buffy to roll her eyes at him.

*

“What brand of diapers do you prefer? The fancy brand, or the affordable kind?” Anya questioned, as she pushed the cart in Wal Mart.

“Why are we buying diapers? The baby isn’t even due for another few weeks.” Dawn said, her arms crossing her chest as she walked.

“Your mother wants us to be prepared. Buffy could explode at any second.” Anya informed the younger Summers girl.

“Thanks, Ahn, love the visual effect.” Buffy said sarcastically.

“No problem.” Anya smiled brightly. “So…have you decided on a name?”

“Yeah…Joshua William Giles.” Buffy said with a wistful smile.

“It’s a strong name. How about marriage?” Anya prodded.

“He asked…sort of, but I’m not sure yet.” Buffy shrugged, walking beside the newly brunette.

“Xander hasn’t…” Anya frowned.

“You two haven’t been hanging much…is everything okay?” Buffy questioned worriedly.

Anya shook her head. “Ever since you announced your pregnancy, things have been a bit shaky.”

“Why?” Buffy asked, stopping Dawn from putting a thirty pack of Snickers in the car, than changing her mind when a craving hit her.

“I was pregnant.” Anya replied with a shrug.

Buffy looked at her friend with surprise in her eyes. “What happened?”

“I wasn’t ready…and neither was Xander. He was close to becoming a pizza boy for the rest of his life.” Anya said, annoyance in her voice.

“But he got accepted to UC Sunnydale to study architecture.” Buffy said.

“Yes, but this happened after Halloween, when Xander was ” Anya saw the baby wipes, and put a few packages in the cart.

“I’m sorry,” Buffy had obvious tears in her eyes.

“It’s not your fault…he was just so excited about helping you with the baby…ever since we’ve been fighting a lot more. I offered him many orgasms, and the chance to make another baby…but he turned me down. I haven’t really spoken to him since.” Anya explained, stopping at the baby-clothing isle.

“Are you sure you’re okay with helping me do this?” Buffy asked, as she got ready to buy some onesies.

“Don’t worry…things will look up.” Anya attempted to ensure herself more than anything.

“I know I’ve been going through a lot, but remember that I’m here for anything…you’re still important to me, as well as Xander. Hold on, everything will get better for everyone.” They stopped walking as Buffy hugged her friend. “I tell myself everyday.”
 

Chapter Fourteen: Beautiful Disaster

“Just like that?” Buffy questioned, her arms around her best friend.

“Just like that.” Willow sniffled, the tears streaking her face. “He said he loved me, Buffy, but he was with her…they were together.”

“There has to be an explanation…didn’t he give you an explanation?” Buffy couldn’t believe that, after three years Oz had cheated on Willow. They seemed to love each other so much. Oz worshipped the ground she walked on.

“I didn’t stay to hear him say, ‘She tripped and landed on my dick.’” Willow wiped her eyes, while pulling away from Buffy.

“Willow!” She was shocked at the redhead’s language. She put a hand on her belly and sat on her rocking chair. The crib was built, and was set up across from her bed.

“Sorry, Buffy.” Willow took a seat on the bed.

“I know you’re hurting, but you have to talk to him.” Buffy assured her. There was a knock at the bedroom door.

“You’re right,” Willow agreed, opening the door to see Spike standing there. “Bye Spike,” and she was off to face up to the truth.

“What was that all about, pet?” Spike questioned.

*

“Did you know?” Buffy asked, after explaining the situations that were surrounding them.

“Harris? A father? Oz? Cheating? Bloody hell.” Spike put a hand through his tousled hair. The duo sat on the back porch of Buffy house, enjoying the last of Summer’s breeze.

“I thought the same thing. They’re my friends, and if their relationships are going downhill, whose to say that ours won’t?” Buffy didn’t mean to, but she asked the question out loud.

Spike got on his knees before her, and took her hands in his. “Buffy, luv, please don’t talk like that. We’re different people, we set our future. Don’t let what’s happening to them get in the way of what we’re going to accomplish together. We’re starting a family, Buffy, and we will be together.” He seemed to be pleading.

“Are you telling me that you wouldn’t be happier if I had gotten an abortion? That things wouldn’t have been easier?” Tears formed in her eyes because the thought had come to her.

“Things would have been easier, Buffy, but I wouldn’t give up what I have for the world. I want this baby, I want this with you, Buffy. Marry me.” It wasn’t long before he was pulling a ring out of his jacket pocket. It was two carrots of diamond goodness.

“Spike, how did you…” She was at a loss for words.

“Just say yes, pet. If not for me, than for out son.”

*

“So that’s it, you’re just going to leave?” Willow questioned, tears streaming down her cheeks.

“Yeah…I think it would be best.” Oz said. He couldn’t be in Sunnydale anymore, he had to find his track of life. Veruca had been a mistake, a drunken mistake. But he couldn’t bare the sight of Willow hurting.

“Don’t you love me?” She cried.

“My whole life, I’ve never loved anything more.” He was attaching to her in a hug of passion and pain. He inhaled her scent deeply, wishing that this wasn’t the way.

“Oz…oh Oz…I’ll miss you.” Part of her understood. He had made a mistake. Everyone makes mistakes. The other part was being selfish, wanting him there.

She got out of his van, and began her walk home at a slow pace. Her first relationship had now come to a brick wall of pain, and crashing. She couldn’t help but remember falling in love, what a beautiful disaster.

“There is a life waiting for me beyond Oz. There’s college, the fun of helping Buffy with the baby, and, YAY college…” She mumbled aloud to herself, attempting to make herself feel better.

*

“Marry?” Buffy repeated the word aloud. “Spike…I love you…I always will, but I have to think about this.”

“What’s there to think about, luv?”

“The longest relationship I’ve had was with Mr. Gordo. I’ve had him since I was four, and we had this really bad fight when I was nine that resulted in the ripping of his head…so don’t talk to me about relationships. It took me forever to get over that, and Mom fixed him quick.” Buffy had the stuffed pig in her hands.

“You’re going to have to deal with a much longer relationship than that Buffy, and you can’t rip off the baby’s head, so I suggested that you marry me, so I can be here for you all the time.” Spike attempted convincing.

“This isn’t just something you say yes to. This isn’t a romance novel, or a cheesy fairytale. We have to raise this baby together regardless of whether we’re married or not, nothing can change that.” Buffy argued. “Why do you want this so bad? Why do you want to turn this into a beautiful disaster?”

“Because my mother didn’t die, she left! She didn’t want me so she left me with my father and disappeared.” He blurted out, and burst into tears. “If we’re married, you can’t leave me.”

She rushed to him, putting his head to her chest. “I’d never do that to you…never. How could you think that? I love you.” She murmured the words over and over, attempting to comfort him. “Tell me everything…I want to know.”
 

Chapter Fifteen: As Long As I Live

The sky seemed to open, as Willow walked. The rain soaked through her clothes, as she came upon the park near Sunnydale High. She headed for the swing set and swung for a bit, deep in thought.

“First love, first real kiss, first…everything. All down the drain…love is nothing but a big sobfest of hurt and pain. No more love for me, I’m anti-love.” She said aloud to herself, in attempt to comfort herself.

The sound of footsteps on the wet grass caught the redhead’s attention. She stood abruptly, and spun around to see a tall brunette in a long skirt holding an umbrella. She seemed slightly started by Willow’s sudden cautiousness.

“S-sorry…I-I didn’t know anyone w-was here.” She stuttered.

“I-it’s okay. It’s a free park. You can walk if you’d like. It’s not like anyone was here but little old lonely me. Sulking and wallowing in my sorrows.” Willow babbled, taking her seat, again.

“A-are you okay?” The girl asked. She was shy and quiet, but concerned.

“Sorry.” Willow attempted a smile. “I’ve had a bad day.”

“I-I guess I’ll just leave you to that.” She took it as her cue to leave, and began walking away. But she seemed to call to Willow.

“Wait.” Willow called out to her, and the girl turned. Willow smiled reassuringly. “Want to wallow with me?”

With a coy smile, the girl replied, shrugging. “Sure.” She made her way to the swing beside the redhead. “I’m Tara.”

“Willow.” And with that they began swinging together.

*

“She left, Buffy. She said she was going to the market and never came back.” Spike sobbed, his head resting on Buffy’s chest.

She felt her own tears catch up to her. “But I though she died.” Her words were a whisper.

“I thought so too. He kept it from me, Buffy. He didn’t want to hurt me, so he let me believe she was buried, when she’s here, in California, fucking living it up in LA.” Now, his anger was apparent.

His anger was what frightened her most. He couldn’t control it, no matter how hard he tried. “Calm down, Spike. She doesn’t know what she’s missed.” Buffy cupped his face in both of her hands. “I love you.” Se leaned in and gently brushed her lips to his.

He took the moment, to explore her mouth. His tongue tangled with hers, and she moaned into his mouth, relishing in what she’d missed. Her hands left his face, and ran down his body, down the tightness of his abs; to the member she missed more than anything. She expertly undid the button on his jeans, and reached further down taking his thick cock into her hands.

“Buffy…” He moaned into her mouth, as she gently pumped him. “We shouldn’t.”

She stopped kissing him to look into his eyes. “We can, if you’re careful.”

“Marry me.” He was looking directly into her green eyes, searching for an answer.

“I can’t…” She whispered, and it was enough to have him, running from her hold, although it was hard.

He quickly zipped up his pants. “I don’t understand. You love me. You said it.” He yelled.

“I do, I’m never going to deny it, and I have no need to lie. But you’re doing this because you think I’ll leave you with the baby, when I can never do that.” She yelled back.

“That’s not the only reason, pet. I love you too. More than life itself. When I was in England, so far from you, I felt as though I died each day that I was away.” He admitted, tears present in his eyes, once again.

“Well, just as you have your reasons, I have my own.” Buffy said.

“Oh, really? Than why don’t you let me know?” Spike put a hand through his already tousled hair.

“My father…” She gulped at the mention. “He left my mother for his secretary.”

“That’s easy, I don’t have a secretary.”

“You’re not listening…we’re so young, Spike, and to jump into this because of the baby-“

“We’re in love.”
“We are, but we may not be forever. Forever is not real. It never will be.” She was getting emotional, and she collapsed to the floor in tears. “I love you so much, it hurts, and I don’t want to lose you, by rushing things.”

He was at her side, allowing her to cry on his chest. “Shhh…pet, I’m sorry. Please, don’t cry. The baby. I’m so sorry.” He whispered words of love, and comfort, in order to calm her down. Than he led her to the bed, and they lay down beside each other, her head on he chest, as he brushed his fingers through her hair. “I’ll wait for as long as I live.”
 

Chapter Sixteen: Spend My Life With You

Spike awoke with Buffy’s head resting on his chest, as she snored lightly. He smiled to himself, and gently shifted the blonde into a more comfortable position. Then he stood and stretched his aching back. Stifling a yawn, and scratching his stomach, Spike made his way out of the bedroom, and toward the bathroom.

Joyce stopped abruptly at the sight of the bleached blonde leaving her daughter’s room. “Spike…what are you doing?”

“Hey, Mrs. Summers…I’m sorry I didn’t let you know…nothing happened, especially, since the obvious…and I would never disrespect your house in such a way…again.” He babbled.

“No need to get nervous…it’s understandable that you’d keep Buffy company…just the all night thing…let me know next time.” Joyce said. “What I really meant was the baby shower…it’s tonight. Shouldn’t you be getting everything together?”

“Bloody hell!” Spike exclaimed, remembering.

“Don’t worry, we’ll get everything together in time.” Joyce said, and they were out the door.

*

“Spike?” Buffy questioned upon waking. She made her way out to the hallway, and called out. “Mom? Spike?”

Dawn suddenly popped her head out of her room, her body covered by the door. “They went out…together.”

“Mom and Spike?” Buffy questioned.

“Yup…She also said we have to go to the Bronze later…the owner ordered a picture from The Gallery and we have to deliver it.” Dawn informed her.

“But I don’t drive.” Buffy said.

“Xander’s coming to get us.”

“Why can’t Xander just go than?” Buffy questioned.

“Xander with one of the gallery’s most precious paintings…alone?” Dawn replied.

“Good thinking…what time?” Buffy asked.

“Around four…Mom bought you a new outfit…something you were eyeing at the mall the other day. She said you should wear it today, because after we go to the Bronze, we’re meeting her for lunch. It’s in her closet.” With that, Dawn went back into her room, slamming the door behind her.

Buffy walked carefully into her mother’s room, opening the closet with ease. There, hanging, was a pale pink baby doll dress that Buffy had fallen in love with, just the other day. With a squeal of happiness, she grabbed it out of the closet and ran to her room.

Dawn opened her door, just as Buffy closed hers’, dialing a number on the cordless phone. “Mom, yeah…she loved it. Everything’s set. We’ll be by four.” With a smile, Dawn went back into her room, to continue working on Buffy’s gift.

*

“God, Xander, can you drive any slower…we’re like, a half hour late.” Dawn complained from the backseat, Andrew at her side, nodding in agreement.

“Why did we bring him with us?” Buffy questioned, looking back at Andrew. She was feeling a bit moody.

“He’s the Dawnster’s pal, and my ever so vengeful girlfriend’s brother…I couldn’t just leave home.” Xander said.

“Plus, I, uh, threatened to burn things…and glue things together.” Andrew said with a slight smirk.

“Is that all?” Buffy questioned, rolling her eyes.

“Come on, Buffy…perk up…today is going to be a good day.” Dawn attempted to raise her sister’s spirit. “Plus, that dress looks really cute.”

“You think so?” Buffy smiled.

“Definitely…like Queen Amidala in Star Wars Episode Two, if she was pregnant with Luke Skywalker, and Princess Leia…she’s beautiful.” Andrew said, a dreamy look on his face.

As they pulled up to the Bronze, Buffy recognized her mother’s Jeep.

“Hey! What’s the Geek Machine doing here?” She questioned, getting out of the car.

“It could be anyone’s car.” Xander replied, pulling a big box, wrapped in brown paper out of the car, as Dawn carried a wrapped picture frame with her. Buffy shrugged her shoulders, and walked towards the door.

“What did this guy buy?” She questioned, and Andrew opened the door for her.

Buffy’s heart jumped as everyone screamed, “SURPRISE!”

Spike, Joyce, and Giles stood on the stage, surrounded by presents. Everyone seemed to be there. Willow, Anya, Tucker, Illyria, Fred, Angel, Cordelia, Gunn, Lindsay, Faith, Aunt Maggie, Uncle Ethan, Clem, Lorne, Glory, Ben, and even people Buffy didn’t really recognize.

“Wow…” Buffy said with a smile, looking around at the people surrounding her.

*

“You surprised?” Buffy jumped slightly in the white wicker chair that she was seated in on the stage, when Spike whispered in her ear.

“Speechless…this wonderful…everything’s been wonderful.” Buffy said with a smile. She felt like a princess.

“Just wait, there are gifts.” Cordelia was suddenly at her side, holding Angel’s hand. “Congratulations…and thanks.” She said, upon Buffy’s shocked expression. “If you hadn’t let him go, he wouldn’t have noticed me.”

“Was that your reason for being so rude during high school?” Buffy questioned.

“Of course,” Cordelia replied, and Angel just smiled, as his girlfriend walked away.

“Buffy…you look beautiful.” He said, smiling at Buffy, and then glancing toward Spike.

“You do realize that she’s a superficial conceited person, right?” Buffy questioned.

“Yes…” Angel replied.

“Hey, it’s a step up from Drusilla.” Buffy stood to hug him.

“I’m sorry…for everything.” He glanced at Spike, hugging back gently.

“It’s okay…just…be happy.” She said, and sat back down. When Angel walked off, Buffy looked at Spike. “How much power did it take, not only for you to invite him, but to watch him hug me?”

“Hard…excruciatingly hard…” Spike said, looking into Buffy’s eyes.

“Present time!” Dawn hoped up on stage with the carefully wrapped frame.

“Prezzies!” Buffy exclaimed.

“See, just what you need.” Willow said, standing beside Tara.

“You are very, very wise. Now, gimme, gimme, gimme.” Buffy smiled.

“Calm down, dumbass.” Dawn handed Buffy the frame.

Buffy ripped open the paper, to reveal every sonogram she had taken so far, surround by pictures of her and Spike. There was even space for extra sonograms. She felt herself tear. “Dawn, it’s beautiful.”

Spike got sight of the gift, as well, and felt the emotions. He took it into his hands, and displayed it for all to see. There was an, ‘Aw…” throughout the crowd.

“Geez, guys, don’t get all movie of the week on me.” Dawn said.

*

Buffy sat at a table with her friends and family, Willow, introducing Tara.

“Tara is going to UC Sunnydale this fall.”

“Great, maybe I’ll see you there when I start in spring.” Buffy said with a smile.

“I-I hope so…th-thanks for inviting me.” Tara stuttered.

“Any friend of Willow’s is a friend of mine.” Buffy said with a smile.

Spike appeared out of nowhere, pulling Buffy out of her seat. Musiq Soulchild’s “Love,” played on the speakers, as the duo danced close.

“I love you, Buffy. Please-“

“Shhh…” Buffy put her finger to his lips. “Don’t ruin this…I love you, too. I want to spend my life with you.”

Chapter Seventeen: Overprotected

Spike drove his father’s carefully home. It was small, red, shiny, and shaped like a penis, so Joyce took some of the presents in her care, while Xander was helping with the rest.

Buffy sat on the passenger’s side, staring out the window. A gentle smile caressed her lips.

“We made out like bandits, luv.” Spike said, glancing at his soon to be bride, breaking the silence. “It was great of Willow to pitch in with Oz for the car seat. I just wish he could have been here.”

“Uh huh,” Buffy agreed quietly.

“She seemed to be doing fine without him. That new friend of hers is nice.” He attempted conversation.

“Uh huh.” She replied again.

“Just one more month and he’ll be here, luv, and we’ve got everything we need for the beginning.”

“Yeah.” She smiled at the thought, putting a hand over her belly.

With a slight frown, he pulled the car into the driveway of his house. “ Are you okay?” He asked, turning off the ignition.

She turned to him with a grin. “Fine.” She looked into his eyes, and put a hand to his cheek.

He nuzzled into her hand like a puppy, and leaned in to kiss her. She turned away without much thought, when she saw they were at his house.

“What are we doing here?” She asked.

“I have a surprise for you, luv. If you didn’t notice, my gift wasn’t in the pile you opened.” He got out of the car, and went over to her side to help her out.

“You’ve done so much, already. I have no idea what you could possibly give me.” She held his hand, as they walked to the front door.

“Not just me love,” he began as he opened the door, “my father, and your mum too.”

“It must be big.” She said, following him up the stairs.

“It is…” He said, stopping in from of an oak door. He looked at her, before pushing it open, and stepping in. He reached for the light, and she gasped.

The room was painted a pale blue; the carpet was plush and white, and the crib that had been in her room that same morning was now there, along with the gifts she’d received. “How?”

“It’s not done. I figured you’d like to decide where everything should go.” Spike said.

“I-I don’t understand.” Buffy stuttered.

“My dad was planning on selling it, he has an apartment near Main Street. I didn’t want to give the house up, and it’s paid for…everything. So after convincing him, he allowed me-us to be his tenant.” Spike explained.

“You’ve got to be kidding me…” She said, following him to what was once Giles and Jenny’s bedroom. It was empty. “Or maybe not.”

Spike made his way to the windowsill, and picked up a black velvet box. “Buffy Summers, will you marry me?” He asked, getting on his knees.

“I will.” She replied with tears in her eyes, and he took her in his arms, and kissed her for the first time in months.

*

The next week went quickly, and Buffy and Spike spent it, moving Giles’ things out, painting, and moving. Everyone was treating her as though she was a fragile piece of glass that could break any second. It was stomping on her nerves, and Buffy was ready to explode.

She sat in the middle of her new bedroom, while Spike worked the roller. She was still sleeping in her bed at home, and avoided sexual contact with Spike, due to the fact that she was so close to giving birth.

“Buffy, you shouldn’t be in the room while Spike is painting. The baby can have problems if you inhale the fumes.” Joyce chided, coming into the bedroom with Dawn behind her.

“I’m fine, Mom.” Buffy rolled her eyes, and watched Spike’s actions. “Can I help?” The last couple of weeks were going to be a bitch if she made it through, especially since she was so antsy.

“I don’t think that’s such a good idea, pet. Maybe you should listen to your mum.” Spike suggested.

Buffy stood with a pout. “I’m pregnant, not a baby.”

“You sure look like one with that face.” Dawn chimed.

“Just forget it, I’ll get out of the stupid room, and I’ll find something to do.” Buffy began stomping down the stairs and out the front door.

Everyone ran after her, including Giles, who had been in the living room, packing away some old pictures.

“Where do you think you’re going?” Joyce questioned.

“For a walk. What, I can’t even go for a walk?” Buffy asked.

“Bloody hell, Buffy, you’re three weeks away from going into labor.” Spike put a hand through his hair.

“That doesn’t mean I can’t go for a fucking walk.” Buffy said angrily.

“It’s not a very good idea.” Giles took of his glasses and cleaned them with his shirt.

“Buffy, is that the language you plan to raise your son with?” Joyce asked angrily.

“Yeah, and I have a lot more fucking language where that came from. I’m eighteen years old, if I want to go for a fucking, walk, I’ll go for a fucking walk. You people don’t have to follow me everywhere. I’m tired of this shit.” With that, she began stomping away.

Joyce sighed, putting her fingers to her temples. “She’s going to be the death of me.”

“Bloody hormones.” Spike muttered.

“She can’t just go to the park alone…that baby could pop out any second.” Dawn said.

“I’ll go after her.” Spike handed over the roller he’d been panting with to Joyce, giving her an encouraging smile. Than, he ran after the blonde.

Buffy could hear his footsteps, knew it was him. “What do you want, Spike?”

“Buffy, luv, I’m going to be your husband, the father of your child…help me out here, and let me protect you.”

She stopped in her tracks, crossing her arms above her belly, and looking at him. “I can take care of myself. I can barely go to the bathroom with out you coming after me, telling me to be careful.”

“Because I don’t want you to hurt yourself. The tub is slippery.” Spike said.

“Don’t give me that…it’s because I was in the hospital, isn’t it?” She questioned, and Spike hesitated. “The baby’s fine, I’m fine…this labor is not going to kill me.”

“You’ve been making me nervous, moving around so much.” Spike said.

“I’m just impatient having him inside of me…I want to be a mother already.”

“You already are, luv…you’re taking care of him as we speak, protecting him in your body, giving him what he needs. Now, come back home, pet…go to my room in the attic and rest.” Spike suggested.

“If you say so.” Buffy sighed, taking Spike’s hand and following back to the house.

Chapter Eighteen: We’re Going To Get Through This

She sat impatiently in her old bedroom. All that was left was her bed, and that was going to go to the Giles’ residence as soon as Spike got off of work at the gallery. She was nervous…knowing that she would be sleeping in an empty house with Spike at her side. Her fiancé. That was the part that was scaring her.

She was only eighteen. Did she really want marriage? Was she looking forward to spending the rest of her life with him? She loved him, no doubt about that, and she wanted her son to grow up in a happy family, but how long would it be until they ended up like her parents, the silent dinners, the angry arguments…the secretary. It all remained a bad memory, locked in the back of her brain. Maybe things would change when the baby comes, maybe she feel like she was doing the right thing by marrying him.

“Buffster!” Xander’s voice broke through her thoughts.

“Hey, Xand! What are you doing here?” She questioned, standing from her bed, and hugging him.

“Dawn let me in…Anya and I have been…avoidy. What’s up with you? You looked like you were having serious thoughts.” Xander said.

Buffy nodded. “Yeah…a week and a half, and I won’t be carrying this watermelon.” She put a hand on her belly. “We’re going to move into the new house tonight…sleep there for the first time.”

“No hanky panky.” Xander warned, pointing a finger at her.

“Alexander Harris! I can’t have sex like this. Besides, it’s the last thing on my mind.” Buffy rolled her eyes.

“What exactly is on your mind?” He questioned, pulling her to sit beside him on the bed.

Buffy looked around the empty room. “This…all of this. My life as a teenager, it’s over.”

“I felt the same when Anya told me she was pregnant, before the abortion. I couldn’t help but tell myself that I would be her husband, and be a better father than my own.” Xander had a faraway look on his face, as though he was picturing the white picket fence.

“What happened?” Buffy questioned.

“Reality happened…I know that I could give her a better life in five years than I can now.” He admitted.

Buffy nodded her head in agreement. “I don’t regret keeping the baby…I know that I love him, and I’ll never let him go, but I do wonder what would have happened if I wasn’t pregnant. Would Spike still have come back and proposed?”

“In all honesty, I think he would have, Buffy.” Xander said with a slight smile on his face. “He loves you more than anything. I know this not only because he tells me, but also because I can see it in his eyes when he looks at you. If you’re not sure about marriage, decide now, before the baby is born.”

“You don’t see it in my eyes?” Buffy questioned.

“It’s a little cloudy.” He said sadly.

*

They stood together, looking at the room in awe. It was perfect. The carpet was beige, the curtains were maroon, the walls were a crème, and the bedspread was decorative with the same colors. The furniture was dark oak, and Buffy’s bed did the room justice. It wasn’t the room of a teenager; it was the room of a couple.

Buffy looked up at Spike with a smile. “It’s perfect.” She stated, her gaze shifting to the picture Dawn made her. She walked over to it, hanging on the wall, and reached up, her fingers gently going over a picture of her and Spike before he left…

“Why touch the picture, luv? The real thing is right here.” He said with a cocky smirk.

She turned, returning his grin, and made her way to him. “I miss that Spike.” She said.

“What Spike? What do you mean?” He questioned.

“Cocky, arrogant, conceded asshole Spike…I miss him.” She replied.

“Do you, now?” He questioned, playfully making his way to her.

“It’s the Spike I fell in love with.” She said.

“And you’re saying I’m not him anymore, pet?”

“I’m saying you’re hiding him because you think I’m too fragile to deal.”

“That’s bloody bullshit.” He didn’t understand why, but that comment pissed him off.

“No it isn’t,” she countered. “I know the real Spike, and he’s a man…a real man, and you’re just his shadow.”

“You’re calling me a pussy?” He questioned angrily.

“Well…you know what they say, you are what you eat.” She replied, jokingly, attempting to lighten the mood she’d created.

“Fuck you, Buffy. I’m going to my room.” He turned to walk out the door, her hand on his arm, halting him.

“What’s your problem? I make a comment and you runaway? This is your room, Spike.” She stated.

“Upstairs is still my rooms, luv, and until that baby is out of your stomach, and I can show you what a real man I am, I won’t be sleeping anywhere near you.”

*

She jolted awake in a cold sweat, the pain so threatening, her insides tightening. She got up, and tried to call his name, but nothing came out. She stood, stumbling out of the bedroom, and toward the stairs to the attic.

“Spike,” she whispered his name, knowing that time was not on her side.

He slept like a rock; she knew that, so she crawled up the stairs. She felt faint as she reached the top, and saw him lying on his side, facing the wall.

“Spike,” she attempted again, and he stirred. She made her way to the bed, and sat beside him, shaking him awake.

“Huh? What? What is it, Buffy?” He questioned sleepily.

“I-I think it’s happening.” She said; her face contorted with pain.

Spike shot out of bed, rushing to the stairs. He was half way down when he realized he left Buffy, and he was naked. “Buggering fucking hell!” He shouted running back up, stumbling around into flannel pajama bottoms, and helping Buffy down the stairs and into the waiting Desoto.

“We’re going to get through this.” He assured her, as she practiced her lamas.
 

*a/n: so here we go…it’s baby time! Enjoy and review…I need to know what you guys want with this story…I’m idea’d out…

Chapter Nineteen: You Are

Sunnydale Hospital’s waiting room was packed with family, and friends, as Buffy delivered her son with Spike at her side in the ER.

“Do ya’ll think she’s going to get through it okay?” Fred asked nervously. Her sister and she were visiting for the baby shower and the baby’s birth.

“Buffy’s strong…she can get through anything.” Xander ensured himself more than anyone else.

“Buffy and Spike are going to be parents.” The realization was hitting Willow like a ton of bricks.

“I’m going to be an aunt!” Dawn said excitedly.

Giles and Joyce looked at each other, the thought of being grandparents looming over their age.

“This is almost as exciting as Goku having his son Goten in the show Dragon Ball Z…almost.” Andrew said, receiving a smack upside the head from Anya.

“They see only the happiness within the baby, but what is of the happiness within themselves.” Illyria spoke, and all eyes shifted to her.

Xander raised his hand hesitantly. “I’ll give you a huh, and raise you a duh…”

“They’re in love, but there are clouds hanging of them, regret and hesitance. Those negative thought will ruin their relationship, and they will hate each other.” Illyria said it was such coldness, such ease, that a shiver ran through each person before her.

“Are you sure you two are related?” Xander asked Fred.

“Oh yes…she’s fifty minutes younger.” She replied.

“I’m thinking she was not given the oxygen she needed…” Willow mumbled, giving Tara a smile.

“I-is everyone excited?” Tara questioned, attempting to be part of the group.

“Yes, of course.” Giles smiled at the shy girl.

“I just wish I knew why it’s taking so long.” Joyce said worriedly.

*

“Buffy you have to push!” Spike argued.

“I don’t want to…it hurts.” She spoke with distress. “Why don’t you push?”

“Buffy, you know if I could take all of that pain away, I bloody well would, but I can’t.” Spike said.

“Please, Spike, if you love me…you’d tell them to give me drugs.” Buffy cried.

“I can’t, luv…it’s too late for that. You’re so close to having our baby.” Spike attempted encouraging her.

“I never want to have sex again.” Buffy wailed, pushing. She felt it…she felt him come out. “It’s over?” She question with a sigh.

“Um…sorry, Ms. Summers, but that was just his head.” Glory said.

“WHAT!” Buffy spoke angrily.

“His shoulder blades are stuck.”

“What the fuck…I’m not having Angel’s baby, why does he have wide shoulders?” Buffy wailed again.

“Come on, pet, you’re almost there.”

“I hate you, I hate you, I hate you!” She repeated to her lover, as she pushed for the last time.

*

They sat silently, Joshua William Giles in her arms, sucking gently on her breast.

“You did it, luv.” Spike aid with a smile, running a cold washcloth over her forehead, and kissing it.

“I couldn’t have done it without you.” She said, her voice weak. “About everything I said…”

“It’s forgotten.” He finished before she could start.

“Spike…” She spoke softly, looking up at the smile in his eyes, “I love you. I know I’ve been the bitch of Bitchdonia lately, but I want to make this work. I want to be you wife.”

“We will, pet, and you are.”

*

They all gathered around the glass to get a look at the newest member of the Scooby gang, and the Giles family.

“Which one is he?” Dawn asked impatiently, looking at a row of seven babies.

“Doesn’t look like he’s here…yet.” Xander said, when the nurses began wheeling another bin with Joshua inside.

He was asleep, a baby with a mop of curly wheat colored hair, his face scrunched and tanned, his hands up at the sides of his face.

“That’s definitely him…he’s a fighter like Buffy.” Willow said with a smile.

“He is almost a spitting image of William, except the hair color.” Giles said.

“He’s not pale like Spike, thank God.” Joyce said, and everyone looked over at her. “With this sun, he’d burn so easily.”

“I think he’s a very cute baby…how much could we get for him on E-Bay?” Everyone’s eyes shifted to Anya with worry.

“We all know not to let her baby sit.” Fred said.

“This child…I can sense that he’s brought the couple closer together, but it won’t be all smiles forever.” Illyria said.

“Hey, Smurf, let us revel in the moment.” Xander said.

“I think he has a certain resemblance to baby Hercules…maybe he’s a superhero or something.” Andrew said.

Dawn smacked him upside the head before Anya could get the chance. “Andrew, shut up!”
 

*A/N: enjoy the goodness while you can…just a warning. I’m think part three… :-D…Give me some feedback, and thanks to Ash. Also, slight hiatus, for about a week and a half, so please review to get my mojo going for what you guys want next.*

Chapter Twenty: Right Beside You

Three days past, and the doctors were doing all possible to make sure that both the baby and Buffy were healthy. Everything was fine, so Buffy would be able to go home the next morning.

As Buffy slept, Spike sat beside her, clutching her small hand. He leaned in and placed a gentle kiss on her forehead. Her eyes fluttered open, and she looked up at him with a smile.

“Spike…” She whispered. “I love you.”

“I love you too, pet. I always will.” He said, leaning in and brushing a kiss on her lips.

“Thank you…for giving me my son,” she said.

“No, luv, I should be the one thanking you.” He replied.

“But you gave me the strength. If it weren’t for you and the love that you’ve given me, I would have given up on you and Joshua. I know it seems like I didn’t appreciate it, but I did.” She said.

He only smiled, putting a hand to her cheek affectionately. “You’re so bloody beautiful.”

Buffy reached up to her hair worriedly. “I must have bed hair.” She sat up, attempting to fix it. “Where is everyone?”

“Taking turns holding the littlest bit.” He replied. “They figured we should have some alone time.”

With that Buffy leaned over to him, coxing his mouth open with her tongue, ordering a battle between their tongues. He followed, and felt his manhood go rock solid.

“Buffy…” His voice was filled with desire, but he knew they couldn’t, not yet.

“Three weeks.” She replied, pulling away.

“Huh?” He questioned in a daze.

“Three weeks and we can have sex…protected sex.” She said. “I think one baby is enough for now. Plus, we have a wedding to plan.”

It was music to his ears.

*

“How’s mama Buffy feeling?” Xander asked when Buffy awoke in the hospital room, Spike missing.

“Okay…where’s Spike?” She questioned.

“Feeling up for a walk?” He questioned, avoiding the question.

Buffy hesitated for a moment. “Um…I guess.” She stood, wearing her Yummy Sushi pajamas, and followed Xander.

She was glad the doctors had agreed to allow her to take the baby home. She missed her bed, although being a new mother spoiled her rotten. Her mother had brought all of her favorite food to her the last three days, she didn’t have to leave the bed, and no one commented on the extra weight she’d gained. She felt it, but she was sure she’d be back to her normal size within three weeks. It was all she need, especially since she would be able to give Spike all the pleasure he’d missed out on since he’d left.

They slowly made their way toward the nursery, and Xander stopped before the big glass window. Inside, Spike was holding his baby boy, wearing a blue smock, while Fred and Illyria took pictures.

Buffy watched in awe, a smile crossing her features, and tears forming in her eyes. “They look beautiful…” She whispered, glancing at Xander.

“They do…not to sound like a homo.” Xander said with a slight pause. “This is what you want, right Buffy?” He suddenly asked.

She watched Spike make a face, and the little boy in his arms cracked his second smile (he exited the womb with a smile on his face.). Putting her hand to her heart, she was sure it was melting, and she couldn’t be surer of anything else.

“More than anything,” she whispered wistfully.

Willow appeared out of nowhere, a cup of coffee in her hand. She sipped happily, and took a spot for the show beside Buffy. “God, they’re so cute.”

“I know.” Buffy agreed.

“Okay, now can we stop with the comments that put my manliness in question?” Xander remarked.

A thought suddenly popped into her head. “Xand, Wills…before the wedding…I’d really appreciate you two baptizing Josh.”

Willow smiled widely. “I’m Jewish…but I’d be honored.” With that, a group hug was formed between the trio, and from inside the nursery, Spike watched with love.

“You warm to the sight of you fiancé and her friends, as they share a moment. How can you be so sure that such a friendship won’t get in the way of your family?” Illyria questioned.

“Because I love her…and I know she loves me.” Spike replied.

“What makes you so sure?” She asked.

Fred snorted a laugh. “Do you really think she would have gone through all of this if she didn’t love him? She had his baby, and she’s sacrificed a lot.”

“Would she sacrifice her friends?” Illyria prodded.

“I’d never asked her to do such a bloody thing. Besides, they’re my friends, as well.” Spike responded.

“But they weren’t your friends until you developed a relationship with Buffy.” Illyria stated.

“And you weren’t my sister until my father met your mother…we’re not blood, but I would never look at you as less.”

“And we’d never want you to. We’re right beside you, all the way to the end…family.” Fred said, as Illyria considered his comment in agreement and smiled at her twin.

His life was coming together. A son, a wife, friends, family…but there was something missing. His mother.
 

Chapter Twenty-One: On My Own

With Joshua finally home, Spike and Buffy began getting into a routine. Spike worked at the gallery in the morning, and took classes at night. That usually got him home at around ten, and between work and school he also stopped at the house to check on Buffy and the baby. It was hard for him, but he did what he had to, to get the bills paid.

Buffy spent the weekdays with Joshua, and the weekends at the gallery. The couple figured after the baby become six months of age, they could hire a nanny, but Buffy wanted to be sure that no one else really RAISES her son but her and Spike.

As three weeks came to a closing, Spike was becoming jitterier, counting every second until he could dive into Buffy’s core. She’d gone down to her normal size, but her breasts were still full from the milk. He was still sleeping in his old room, his nights containing lotion and dirty magazines. He didn’t feel bad...he had needs too.

They sat in the breakfast nook, Spike eating cold cereal, while Buffy fed Joshua. Spike kept jiggling his leg, watching the way Buffy’s tank top rode low on her breasts, how her hair fell down her back, close to caressing her butt, and that sly smile in her eyes, as Joshua devoured his formula. She glanced at Spike, and caught him staring as he chewed his cereal.

“What?” She questioned. She noticed the stares, and desire that his eyes held, everyday more evident.

“Huh?” He questioned, snapping out of a daze.

“You keep looking at me, like a virgin starved for strippers.” She replied.

A smile crept over his lips. “I’m beginning to feel like one, too, pet.”

“What are you trying to say, is my little Spiky backed up?”

“More than you know…but no need to worry, time is on my side. Three days.” He replied.

“You can’t be seriously counting down until we’re finally able to have sex, are you?” Buffy questioned, amused.

“Damn right I am, luv. When I’m finally able to have that tight little body, you won’t be able to walk for days.” He threatened.

“Hey! Virgin baby ears here.” She said, referring to Joshua. “You’re daddy’s a little cranky, Josh. You have to excuse him,” she cooed to the little boy.

“And you’re going to have your first sleep over at grandma’s very soon, Little Nib.” Spike warned.

*

“Are you sure this is what you want?” Giles questioned, holding a piece of paper in his hand.

“Yeah, Dad…I am.” Spike replied nervously, so close to the past.

Giles nodded, understandingly, and handed Spike the number. “William…I just want to warn you. She’s different from us…very big on morals and rules. She may not be as keen to the idea of the marriage or your son.”

“Are you saying she’s the old fashioned type of woman?” Spike was amused with the information.

“Yes, she is.” Giles replied, taking off his glasses and cleaning them with a handkerchief.

“Than what about me…you weren’t married.” Spike reminded the old man.

“You’re right, but those were in the days that I was known as Ripper…a bad ass leather wearing bad boy, somewhat like yourself. Your mother was a Catholic school girl, all innocence and legs.” A faint smile approached Giles’ lips.

“How did you pry apart innocence?” Spike questioned curiously.

“I was all talk and promises, but when it came down to it, I knew the minute you were born that you would be my life. Your mother cried, and cursed me, but tried it out. We lived in a flat in the poorer side of London, and to her parents it was the worst thing she could do. It didn’t take a lot of convincing for her to go back to that mansion, and leave us there.” Giles explained.

“She was young…” Spike didn’t understand why he was defending her. Part of him figured it was because part of him was always missing something…his birth mother must have been it. Jenny had been a perfect mother, but when it came down to it, he still had a void that needed to be filled.

*

Spike sat in the master bedroom, as Buffy put Joshua to sleep in his room. His hands shook as he prepared to dial the number. Two rings and an unfamiliar voice picked up.

“Gwendolyn Post.” She answered.

“M-Ms. Post?” Spike questioned nervously.

“Yes?” She asked gently.

“This is William…William Giles, your-“

She cut him off, her breath caught in her throat. “My son.”

“Hello, Ms. Post…I just…I’m sure you know that I’m to be married in a few months…and I have a son…I would like you to some, and meet my son.” Spike explained.

“Son? You have a son…my Lord, you’re only nineteen.” She attempted to keep her panic down. “Well, we should meet.”

“I work at Dad and Joyce’s gallery in Sunnydale during the weekdays.” He informed her.

“Who’s Joyce?” She asked curiously.

“Joyce is Buffy’s mum.” Spike replied.

“What’s a Buffy?”

“My fiancé.” Spike replied.

“I’ll meet you tomorrow for lunch. Ta-ta.”

Before Spike had the chance to ask when and where, she hung up.

“Who was that?” Buffy asked coming into the room.

“My mother.” Spike put a hand through his hair and sighed.

“Your m-mother?” Buffy hesitated.

“My mother…I want her there, for the baby and our wedding…I miss Jenny.” Spike explained.

“I understand, Spike, but you don’t know her…she was cold enough to leave you and Giles, how do you know she’s not a generally cold person?” Buffy questioned.

Spike stood suddenly. “Guess I’ll have to find that out on my own, pet. Goodnight.” He placed a chaste kiss on her lips, and made his way to the attic.