Chapter 16

‘Oh God, I’m gonna be sick!’ 

Buffy stood up abruptly and dashed from the theater.  With a hand over her mouth, she frantically searched for the nearest bathroom.  The thought of being ill in public was abhorrent, yet she wasn’t quite sure she’d be able to keep down the contents swirling in her stomach.   

Leaning against the wall inside the momentarily deserted bathroom, she inhaled deeply in an attempt to stave off the need to be sick.   

‘I’m such a fool.  There was no way William…scratch that…there was no way Spike would want someone like me.  Oh, he must have had a good laugh at my expense.  Poor, innocent Buffy.’ 

Not anymore.  Oh, he could laugh all he wanted, but she refused to feel bad about being pregnant.  Yes, it was going to be difficult, and yes, her life would undoubtedly change.  She could handle it – she’d done it before.  Placing her hands over her still-flat stomach, she vowed that this child would grow up knowing he…or she…was loved. 

With that resolve made, it seemed her sudden bout of nausea had fled and Buffy pushed away from the wall and quickly washed her face. 

“Buffy?  Buffy, are you in here?” Willow called out frantically.  She rounded the corner and saw her friend washing her face.  “Oh, there you are…I was worried.  Are you ok?” 

Buffy glanced at her friend in the mirror, seeing the worry evident on her redheaded friend. 

“I’m fine, Wills.  Just…I guess that flu bug hasn’t worn off yet…” 

“Oh, so the clinic says you’ve got the flu?” 

The silence in the bathroom was deafening, and Buffy was half-tempted to lie.  But, Willow was her friend.  She was going to need her moral support in the months ahead and lying wasn’t a good way to start off.  Besides, she wasn’t ashamed.  True, she was a single mother twice over now, but she couldn’t find it within herself to feel guilty about it. 

“Uh…actually, Wills…I’m pregnant.  About two months now,” she told her friend, watching her reaction to her news in the mirror. 

No disgust, no abhorrence.  Only awe and wonder and excitement.  She’d done the right thing in telling her. 

“Really?” she practically squealed. 

“Uh huh.  Just found out today.  It’s going to make for some interesting classes, but I’ll manage.” 

“Oh, Buffy…that’s wonderful…wait…it is wonderful, right?” 

“Yes, Wills…it’s just about perfect.”   

It would have been perfect if the father was around and would share in her joy, but it wasn’t a perfect world. 

“That’s great, Buffy.  I can’t wait to tell Tara.  You are going to tell Tara…” 

“Yes, I’m going to tell Tara,” she replied ruefully.  “As if you wouldn’t tell her if I didn’t.” 

Willow blushed but refrained from answering.  Standing by her friend, she looped an arm in hers and pulled her back towards the exit. 

“Come on…we’ve got a movie to watch.” 

“Uh…yeah…right.” 

So, Buffy was pulled back into the theater and died a little each time those penetrating blue eyes rested on hers.   

~*~*~*~*~ 

William mentally kicked himself repeatedly while calling himself all kinds of fools.  She’d really cared about him…and what had he done?  He’d written her off as a fling.  Stupid git!  When he thought back over their week together, he berated himself even more.  Had she ever once showed him that theirs was a temporary thing?   

‘No,’ he told himself derisively, answering his inner-voice’s question.  ‘If anything, she’d tried to show me how much she’d cared.  How reluctant she’d been, how long it had been for her.’ 

And, he’d come along and mucked it right up. 

But why had she left? 

It didn’t matter, he had to see her.  He left his trailer with every intention of doing that when he smacked his forehead and groaned.  He still had another two weeks of shooting left.  Unfortunately, he was in most of those shots. 

That didn’t mean he couldn’t get his plans in motion… 

~*~*~*~*~ 

Veteran’s Day.  Whoever said that young kids got the day off from school but colleges still held classes?  With her backpack slung over one shoulder, she gripped her daughter’s hand in hers as they crossed the quad. 

“I’m sorry you have to come with me to school, Dawnie.  I tried to see if you could stay with Samantha today, but her mom was going out of town for the holiday.” 

“It’s ok, mommy.  I get to play doctor, right?” 

Buffy reached over with her free hand and ruffled her daughter’s hair. 

“Of course you get to play.  You’re going to be a good patient.” 

Her daughter grinned up at her and Buffy smiled back.  Together they hurried to Buffy’s clinical class – the only one she had scheduled for today. 

~*~ 

William tried to be as unobtrusive as possible as he made his way across campus to the Nursing Department.  Admissions had been a bust with regards to information about Buffy – something about a privacy act, but they’d pointed him towards the Nursing building. 

If he had to scope out the building all day in the hopes of finding her, he would.  Besides, it shouldn’t be too hard.  He’d done a little research and found out that Sunnydale University was the best – as far as nursing schools went – in the state and their program was pretty selective…and small. 

He was slowly walking along the path leading to the Nursing building when he caught something out of the corner of his eye.  A woman and her daughter.  They’d stopped for a moment, the mother apparently speaking to the girl.  The girl became animated – the words mommy and doctor drifting back towards him – and the mother smiled and reached over to ruffle the girl’s dark hair.  It was the smile that did it…he’d never forget the way she smiled.  Lit up her whole face, it did. 

Buffy. 

Buffy and her daughter? 

With his sunglasses firmly in place, he did his best to appear invisible as he followed the two.  Buffy seemed oblivious, and it allowed William the opportunity to watch her.  She was beautiful…even with the dark circles that seemed a permanent feature under her eyes.  Her smile made them hardly seem noticeable.   

God, he missed her, and he had to tamp down his body’s response at seeing her so carefree.   

He followed after them and they climbed the stairs and walked inside the building, waiting a moment to give them a chance to put some distance between them.  It was a good thing too, as he had to duck behind a pillar as she suddenly turned to look over her shoulder.  Wouldn’t do for her to see him just yet. 

~*~ 

Buffy was standing before her classroom door when she felt the hairs on her neck stand on end.  She looked over her shoulder, trying to determine what it could be, but saw nothing.  With a shrug of her shoulders, she went inside the room, the sounds of her classmates’ greeting and their exclamations of seeing her daughter washing over her. 

“Hi, Dr. Joneson.  This is my daughter, Dawn, I’ve been telling you about.  She’s out of class today, so she’s volunteering to be a patient.” 

“Hello there, Dawn.  It’s nice to meet you.” Turning, the dark-skinned woman asked Buffy, “How are you doing?  Still having morning sickness?” 

“No, so far, so good.  Although, I didn’t really have it with Dawn either.  Just a little more tired this go round, but then, I wasn’t in school either,” she told her professor, ruefully. 

“Well, don’t overdo it.  Nursing school is hard enough by itself.  I don’t want your health to suffer because you’re trying to do too much.” 

“I won’t.  I promise.” 

“Ok.  Well, take a seat and we’ll get started with class.  Dawn, you want to stay up here with me and be my model?” 

Dawn looked at her mom, who nodded back at her, and nodded to the woman.  Buffy went and took her seat next to her lab partner, listening as Dr. Joneson started her brief lecture before the hands-on began. 

~*~ 

William tried to get another glimpse of Buffy, but the classroom doors had shut.  He had no idea how long she would be in class, but was determined to wait until she finished.  Now that he’d found her, he wasn’t going to let her slip through his fingers. 

He sat down in a chair outside her room and waited.  He replayed in his mind his scene of her with her daughter. 

She had a niblet… and a cute one at that.  Her straight brown hair framed her pixie-ish features.  The little girl was going to be a knockout when she got older.  Thoughts of Buffy round with her child swam before him…that led to thoughts of what she’d look like pregnant with his own child.  A blond-haired, green-eyed sister for the dark-haired sprite to play with. 

Thoughts of children led him to remember his time with Buffy. 

Making love in the cave, her cottage. 

Sinking his cock into her welcoming heat, limbs entwined as they came together. 

And not once had he used a condom… 

Visions of her belly swelled with his child flooded his mind once more before he pushed them away.  Surely she was on some type of birth control?  They’d never discussed it – poster children of “in the heat of the moment” being their theme. 

He’d just assumed… 

She’d never said… 

Snippets of conversation came back to him.

“I’m sorry,” she finally whispered. “I don’t… I just…I’m…”  

“Shhhhh…” he soothed. “‘S my fault. I got carried away. But, I’m not gonna hurt you, ok? You’re safe with me.” 

Then… 

“It’s been a long time for me,” she whispered out into the silence. “I’m not like this. I don’t just fall all over the first gorgeous guy I see.” 

“That saying ‘Once bitten, twice shy’? Well, that was coined just for me. What is it about you that makes me forget that?” 

He shook his head, clearing it.  Wishful thinking on his part…brought on by him seeing Buffy with her daughter. 

William grabbed his cell phone from his pocket and called Oz.  The two had struck up a friendship separate from their business partnership and he wanted to see how things were going.  They’d not been able to get together since their meeting, Oz was busy starting on William’s project and he’d been filming.  But, he’d called earlier and told him that he’d be near L.A. and wanted to get together for drinks. 

“’Lo?” 

“Hey, Oz, it’s William.  How goes it?” 

“Not bad.  You?” 

“I’m in Sunnydale taking care of a few things.  Still want to get together this weekend…say Saturday night?” 

“Sure.  Works for me.  Ok if Cordy tags along?  She’s wrapped up her thing in Ireland and should be flying in to L.A. tomorrow.” 

“Not a problem,” he replied. 

“If all goes well, I’ll be bringing someone,” William mumbled to himself. 

“What’s that?  Didn’t quite catch that,” Oz asked. 

“Errrr…nothing.  Just talking to myself.  I’ll call you when I get in to L.A. on Saturday.” 

“Ok.  Later, man.” 

William hung up and made a few more calls while he waited for Buffy’s class to let out. 

Chapter 17

After his final call, William sat there for a moment.  He couldn’t hear anything going on inside Buffy’s classroom with the door shut, so he had no idea how much longer she would be.  Now that he was finally here, he was anxious to get their “reunion” over with.   

He had half a mind to just open the door and seek her out.  Vaguely, he recalled something like that happening in a movie a long while back.  Wracking his brain until he recalled the movie – it would have driven him crazy until he figured it out – he realized it was one of Rick’s films…Parenthood, if he recalled.  He remembered having a good chuckle over the lack of Moranis’ singing skills. 

Well, he bloody well wasn’t going to pull something so clichéd.  Eyeing the closed door in frustration, he stood and began pacing the deserted hallway, periodically glancing at his watch and willing the dials to turn faster.  What could they be doing in there for the past two and a half hours?  Surgery? 

William was halfway down the hall, running his hand agitatedly through his platinum locks, when he heard a commotion behind him.  He saw the door open and some women start to filter out of the room.  Half-jogging – trying not to look conspicuous – back to his chair outside her room, he attempted to listen for the sound of her voice. 

Then she was there…walking out of the room, on hand on her daughter’s shoulder as she steered the little girl through the entryway, glancing behind her – her back to him – as she answered some question asked of her. 

“I’ll be by in a little bit, Tara.  Tell Willow we’re still on for our study group session.” 

He watched as she smiled before turning around and walking off.  It took a moment for his brain to realize that she was leaving him behind, and he hurried after her. 

~*~ 

Buffy had just reached the door to the building when she felt someone coming up behind her.  She paid it no mind – students were constantly rushing to the door after classes ended – and just held the door a moment, allowing the person to catch up and grab the open door. 

“Thank you,” a heavily British-accented voice murmured.   

She ignored the chills that raced down her spine…pining over William wouldn’t do any good.   

“No prob,” she responded, not even bothering to turn around.  “Ready, Dawnie?” 

She glanced down to see her daughter’s upturned face glance behind her momentarily before returning her gaze to her mother. 

“Uh huh.  I get McDonald’s, right?  Because I was good…” 

Inside, Buffy was mentally gagging at the thought of eating at the fast food restaurant…just the thought had reflexive morning sickness ideas taking hold.  But, a promise was a promise, and the eatery was trying to carry more “health conscious” food lately.  Maybe she’d have a salad. 

“Sure thing, pumpkin.  I appreciated all your help today.  You made a very good patient,” she told her daughter as they descended the stairs.  She couldn’t help the answering smile as her daughter beamed at her praise. 

So involved with her daughter, she almost jumped out of her skin when she felt someone touch her shoulder.  She whirled around, ready to blast the person who had managed to scare her half to death…but the words died in her throat. 

She blinked, jaw dropping in astonishment momentarily, before she recovered and turned away – grabbing her daughter’s hand and trying to put as much distance between herself and the apparition behind her. 

“Buffy, wait…”  

The desperation she heard in his voice caused her to stop…but she didn’t turn around.  She was too busy trying to get her emotions under control, rapidly blinking to prevent herself from crying. 

He’s here. 

She couldn’t seem to get that one thought from reverberating in her brain – over and over again. 

“Mommy?” Dawn called to her mother uncertain, even as she tugged on her hand. 

Buffy released a pent up breath and looked upon the worried face of her daughter.  She tucked a stray lock of hair behind her ear, murmuring, “It’s ok, pumpkin.” 

She felt him standing behind her, so close that if she were to lean back – even the slightest – her back would encounter his chest.  And, she wanted so much to do that…to pray that she wasn’t dreaming, that he had come for her like some Prince Charming. 

But, this was the real world…and, Buffy had stopped believing in Knights in Shining Armor a long time ago. 

“Buffy.” 

Nothing more, just her name whispered from his lips.  The sound of his voice did strange things to her resolve.  She could feel herself melting…wanting to believe in the fairy tale, if only for a moment. 

Yet, years of what she fondly called the “real world” intruded, and she pushed those idyllic thoughts aside. 

“William…what brings you to Sunnydale?  Filming a new movie, perhaps,” she greeted him – this man she’d come to love in such a short period of time – as she turned to face him. 

Her steel resolve almost collapsed when she gazed upon his features.  He was the same, even knowing who he was now; he was still her William.  The one that sat beside her in an English pub as the two of them listened to Jake.  The guy that lulled her into complacency, then soundly beat her in a race across the beach.  The tender man that held back when she practically cried on his shoulder as she whispered her reticence.   

She didn’t allow any of that to show, however.  Couldn’t give him the ammunition that he’d succeeded where others had failed.  That he’d made her open up her heart, albeit unwillingly. 

Buffy watched as he cringed…as if he were ashamed of his deception.  

‘Wasn’t exactly like you were forthcoming with the information either, missy.’ 

‘Shut up.  We’re not talking about me.’ 

“I…uh…I…Bloody hell.  I feel like I’ve forgotten my lines…” 

Upon seeing her closed expression grow even colder, he could have kicked himself. 

“Sorry.  Not exactly a good analogy, is it?” he commented as he ran one hand through his disheveled blond locks. 

The gesture – his apparent nervousness – eased some of the hurt she’d inevitably felt at his words. 

“Would you…uh, like to get some lunch?  I heard you tell the niblet here you were going to McDonalds…” 

He watched as she just stared at him, unsure of what to make of his invitation. 

“What’s a niblet?”  The question came out of nowhere, startling the two. 

William smiled and turned towards the little girl tucked next to her mother’s side.  He crouched down in front of her so he could look at her on eye level. 

“That would be you.  Dawn, is it?” 

She didn’t say anything, just glanced up at Buffy as if seeking some assurance. 

“Yes, this is Dawn…my daughter.  Dawnie, this is William.  He’s a…someone I met when I was in England.” 

“Is that why he talks funny?” she whispered out loud. 

Funny…no.  Sexy…oh, hell yeah! 

“Wot’s that?  Talk funny?  I talk funny?” he asked the little girl.  She giggled, nodding her head vigorously in answer to his question. 

He blustered more for the little girl’s benefit, which resulted in another round of giggling.  Even Buffy had a smile on her face.  He’d waited almost three months to see it, and as it rained down him, he finally felt at peace.  The agitation he’d felt over the last several months seemed to just fade away, leaving him happy once more. 

“So, what do you say, Buffy?  Lunch?” 

“Ok…lunch.  But, not too long…I’ve got a study session I have to get to.” 

He nodded, rising to his feet.  He’d take what he could get for now, and push for more later. 

~*~*~*~*~ 

What in the bloody hell ever possessed him to go to a McDonald’s…and then to go on an apparent school holiday?  He’d followed behind Buffy in his car as she drove to the restaurant and now stood holding the glass door open for her.  As she walked past, he just stood there…and gaped at the scene before him. 

The place was crowded; to the right was the counter, to the left were seats.  And beyond that was an enclosed playground. 

All around him, kids were yelling at the top of their lungs as they enjoyed the day off from classes.  All around him, mothers and some fathers sat wearily watching their demonic offspring. 

He must be insane…there was no excuse for it.  He was well and truly off his rocker! 

William stood there and gaped at the scene before him, wanting nothing more than to turn tail and run… 

Buffy!  Think about Buffy.  She’ll help you get through this…this chaos. 

And, as she sailed right into hell, he thought she was truly a warrior beyond compare.  William…well, he was frozen in place…petrified to move for fear of upsetting the natives. 

Buffy stopped and glanced over her shoulder when she didn’t feel William behind her.  A knowing smile came to her lips when she spotted his dazed expression.   

‘Obviously the first time he’s been around kids.’ 

Taking pity on him, she walked back over to him and grabbed his hand off the open door – and ignored the bolt of electricity that shot through her extremities at the contact. 

“Come on, Big Bad, I’ll protect you,” she teased him – then faltered as she remembered another time, another place, when those words had slipped out. 

Their joined hands spread to arms length before he finally let go of the door and walked inside the madhouse that currently passed as a fast food restaurant. 

“How may I help you,” the frazzled woman behind the counter asked. 

“A cheeseburger Happy Meal with a lemonade, and I’ll have a California Cobb Salad with a Diet Coke,” Buffy told the woman. 

“I’ll have the same…only without the Happy Meal and lemonade part, and the other is on my tab,” William broke in. 

Buffy didn’t even begin to argue.  Her mind was awash with other times, other memories… 

‘This so wasn’t a good idea, Buffy,’ she mentally berated herself. 

The waitress rattled off an amount in her monotone voice, her nerves long since stretched to the breaking point, and waited impatiently while William pulled the necessary bills from his wallet.  Buffy was shocked that he had enough small change to pay for the food – before she chided herself for being catty. 

‘Just hurry and eat your food, then you can be on your way.’ 

A sound plan, if only it would work.   

~*~

Buffy got Dawn settled and started on her lunch, bracing herself for the “twenty questions” William was sure to hit her with as soon as they started eating.  Yet, of all the scenarios, the first words out of his mouth were far from what she had expected… 

And, she could feel the walls encasing her feeling and emotions shift of their foundations. 

“She’s beautiful,” he told her, his penetrating gaze never leaving hers. 

“I…uh…thanks,” she mumbled, finally breaking contact as her eyes stared unseeing at her salad. 

“Buffy…I…” his voice trailed off as his hand reached out and cupped her cheek, raising her gaze to his once more. 

The emotion he saw churning in her eyes, before she quickly masked it, filled him with hope.  She wasn’t as immune as she liked to think…good! 

He released her face and gestured for her to start eating.   

Buffy eyed the food warily.  A part of her was starving, but that other part – the part that was about three months pregnant – rebelled at the thought of eating anything.  Especially something from this grease pit.  Her hazel orbs lit on the crackers that came with the meal and she grasped the plastic packet and tore into it, desperation tingeing her actions. 

‘Please, God…not now.  Please don’t let me get sick now.’ 

The crackers seemed to work…and for once, something finally went her way.  Now, if she could just get away from William and back to her normal, boring life, she’d be doing ok. 

William seemed to have other plans… 

He quickly housed his food as if he hadn’t eaten in week, and beside him, her daughter did the same.  It was a rule that she couldn’t play until her dinner was eaten – it was the only way she could get her daughter to eat when they went to places like this – and she was all business as she finished off her burger and fries, slurping down her lemonade as if she’d just completed a long walk across the desert. 

“Can I go play, mommy?” 

“Wipe your hands and face first,” she told her. 

Then, the two of them were alone…and Buffy didn’t know what to do. 

“William… I…” 

“Why did you leave?” 

The two questions peppered the air simultaneously.  Buffy blushed and looked away.  She couldn’t tell him…that it broke her heart to leave.  That when he’d walked away she’d felt like a part of her was dying.  The emotions he’d managed to elicit within her in such a short period of time…she just didn’t want to appear a fool – wearing her heart on her sleeve – as he finally told her goodbye. 

Better to tuck tail and run before he got back, saying her goodbyes via Jake. 

“I thought it best,” she began, her head bowed…refusing to look at him.  “I didn’t want you to think that I expected something.  We were just strangers…” 

“Do you really believe that?” he asked.  Although his voice was barely above a whisper, you could still hear the forcefulness – and hurt – behind it.  It was the hurt she responded to, jerking her head upright to stare at the face that seemed to haunt her these last three months. 

“What do you want from me?” she practically cried, almost near tears.  “I’ve got to go…got to get Dawnie.” 

She squirmed out of her seat, grabbing frantically for her purse.  William stood as well, unwilling to let her get away now that he’d finally found her. 

“Buffy, please…don’t go…don’t…” 

He placed his hands on her shoulders, halting her in her tracks. 

“I’m sorry…don’t go…” 

“I’ve got to.  Dawnie…study session,” she babbled as her tears threatened to spill over. 

“How about dinner?  Tomorrow night?  You can bring the niblet if you want…” 

“I…I can’t…I’ve…I’ve got plans.” 

Her eyes lifted helplessly to his…saw the emotion churning within the depths, and relented. 

“Next Saturday,” she told him. 

The smile that lit up his face almost made her cancel her plans to see her mother in L.A. this weekend.  Almost… 

She jotted down her phone number, whispering a “call me” as she headed towards the playground and her daughter. 

William turned and watched her walk away.  He’d let her go for now.  But, this was far from over.  Now that he had her number… 

Number.  

He glanced down at the number, when a thought occurred to him.  Grabbing his cell phone, he quickly punched in the digits and waited as the phone rang. 

“Hello?” her soft voice answered. 

“Just me, pet,” he chuckled into the phone.  He watched as she turned towards him, phone in hand and rolled her eyes.  He smiled back, waved, then disconnected.  Buffy just shook her head and turned back towards the playground. 

But, he’d seen the smile on her face. 

With a swagger in his step, he left the restaurant and walked towards his rental car.

Chapter 18

Buffy watched as William crawled up the bed and settled his body over hers.  The two emitted joint groans of pleasure as bare skin finally made contact with bare skin.  Her fingers fisted in his hair as his lips teased hers into opening for him, his tongue slipping inside to mate with hers. 

The poignancy of the moment nearly overwhelmed her, the gentleness of his lovemaking made her fall that little bit more in love with him. He’d played her body expertly, first with his hands and tongue as he flicked and sucked first her breasts, lavishing attention on one before moving to the other to show it equal treatment.  Then, he’d slid his clothed body lower so that his tongue could torment her clitoris before parting her nether lips and seeking the treasure within. 

Only after gasping his name as her orgasm ripped through her body had he stripped off his clothes and settled himself over her.  And now…now he was kissing her as if he’d never stop, as if he was just happy to stay right here and love her this way. 

But, she craved more – needed him inside her, filling her, stretching her in ways she’d not thought possible.  As if sensing her unspoken desire, the head of his cock brushed over her opening.  Then he was filling her…slowly.  Savoring the feel of his length sliding deep within her inch by agonizing inch until he was fully seated. 

He tore his lips away from her mouth as the sensation became too much to bear.  Her name burst from his lips in gasped wonder – that one word, spoken so fervently, caused her arms to hold him tighter, as if that alone would keep him there with her. 

After a few agonizing moments, he began to move.  Long, slow, deep thrusts that tore at her heart even as they filled it.  Their sweat-slickened bodies moved in tandem – they’d done this often enough today that they were able to judge when one would thrust deep, stopping for a moment to savor the feeling before pulling back and doing it all over again.  Over and over, in and out, the slow cadence gradually built to a fevered pitch… 

Then, the two gave in to their bodies demands – the sound of bare skin slapping together, the groans of satisfaction and whispered words of encouragement permeating the air as their pace increased…until finally sweet release was obtained. 

Buffy felt her orgasm rip through her, her body quivering even as the tip of his cock continued to work her sweet spot until she came again as she felt the effects of his own orgasm spurt deep within her body. 

Replete, and utterly exhausted, they collapsed on one another in a tangle of limbs.  Heaving with exertion, the two breathed heavily as their bodies slowly recuperated from their headlong flight to rapture.   

~*~ 

The ringing of her cell phone jarred her from where she sat in the cooling waters of her bath daydreaming.  Scrambling out of the tub and snatching a towel from it’s place on the hook along the way, she darted out of the bathroom to silence the “Scooby-Doo”-ringing  of her cell phone. 

“Hello?” she answered breathlessly. 

“Buffy?” the male voice asked, his crisp British accent sliding over her skin like a well-known lover.  She glanced down at her arm and noticed the goose bumps breaking out over her flesh at that one word. 

“Yes…” 

“Hi.  It’s William…I…was I interrupting something?  You sound out of breath.” 

“No…I was just in the bathtub.” ‘Dreaming of you,’ she didn’t add. “That was just me rushing to answer the phone.” 

“Do you want me to let you go?” 

“Uh…no, it’s fine.  I was done anyway.” ‘Although, not really because my body is still aching.’ “What can I do for you?” ‘Now there’s a loaded question, Buffy!’ 

“Nothing…I...just wanted to hear your voice, is all.  Yeah, and now I sound like a bloody git.  Hell.” 

Buffy could practically see him running his hands through his hair in agitation.  He’d dyed it again; the locks that had started to grow so that his darker roots were showing were gone, leaving his whole head bathed in platinum.  It looked good on him, but she’d really liked the lighter tips as his natural hair color had shown through.  It made him appear…softer, less world-weary.  Right now his look screamed “famous actor” – the kind that wouldn’t give a “normal” person like her the time of day. 

But yet, he’d sought her out…and that, as well as the self-deprecating nature of his voice twisted a reluctant smile to her face.  She climbed onto her bed, clad in only her towel, and snuggled on top of the coverlet as she listened to William go on, until she finally interrupted his monologue. 

“Shut up, William,” she laughed.  “You’re not a bloody git, or whatever it was that you called yourself.  I’m glad you called.” 

“You are?”  Now he sounded confused. 

“Yes.  You silly man.  So…talk to me.  What have you been up to?” 

“Nothing much,” he replied.  Yet, he found himself telling her about the shoot he’d been on for the last several months, Buffy laughing with him as he related some of the funnier moments on the set.  When he happened to glance at his watch, he gazed at the dial in surprise – he’d been on the phone with her for over an hour. 

It was late, and figuring she needed her rest for classes tomorrow, he finally let her go, telling her that he’d call her tomorrow night. 

“Ok, William,” she replied.  “Goodnight.” 

“Buffy?” 

“Yes?” 

“I…I missed you,” he told her, the hesitancy in his voice causing her heart to break all over again. 

“I missed you too, William,” she whispered softly into her cell phone before disconnecting the call. 

‘In for a penny…’ she thought as she slipped from her bed and retrieved some pajamas from her dresser.  

For once she managed to drift right off to sleep… 

~*~ 

Across town, in the hotel overlooking Sunnydale, William also managed to sleep without the usual restlessness that had plagued him since leaving Crackington Haven. 

~*~*~*~*~ 

Buffy felt like an idiot as she sat gazing at her professor.  Apparently, she’d been called on and had no idea what had been asked of her. 

“Erm…sorry, Dr. Logan.  What did you ask me again?” 

“Are you feeling ok?  You seem to be a million miles away today,” he asked concerned as he came to stand beside her desk. 

“I’m sorry, Dr. Logan.  I’ve got a lot on my mind, what with going out of town to see my mother this afternoon.” 

“It’s ok, Buffy.  And, I think we can call it a day.  Time’s almost up anyway,” he commented before looking at the others and announcing in a voice that carried throughout the room, “Have a good weekend everyone.  Quiz next Friday on the cranial nerves.” 

Cheers and groans greeted that announcement as the other nursing students gathered their things and filed out of the room – cheers for the early release, groans for the quiz. 

Turning back to Buffy, the male professor asked her, “You’re sure you’re ok?  You look a little red.  Not doing it too hard, are you?”  Since letting all her professors know about her condition, they’d all turned into mother hens – making sure she got plenty of rest, exercise, and food.  Secretly, Buffy enjoyed the extra attention…not to the point where she took advantage, but it was nice that others were looking out for her.  It was something that had been lacking the first go-round with Dawn.  Not that her mother hadn’t showered her with love, but now, she had a whole troop of people looking out for her welfare. It was…nice. 

“No, Dr. Logan.  I really just had my mind on other things.  Actually, last night, I slept better than I had in a while.” 

“That’s good to hear.  We just don’t want you overdoing it…” 

“I know, I know.  Dr. Joneson already told me: ‘nursing school is hard enough…blah blah blah.’ Don’t I know it.” 

“Well, she is very overprotective of her students.” 

“As if you aren’t.”  Buffy snorted, rolling her eyes.  She gathered her things and moved towards the door. 

“Go on…get out of here.  Tell your mother hello for me.”  The two older adults had met when Joyce had come down to visit about a month ago to see Buffy and tour the school.  They’d immediately struck up a friendship.  Dr. Logan tried to get to L.A. once a month and the two would meet up for dinner dates and such.  Personally, she hoped the two would hook up.  Dr. Logan was just the type of person her mother needed. 

“I will.  See ya around, Dr. Logan,” she called out, waving to the older man as she walked through the doorway. 

~*~*~*~*~ 

The thirty-minute head start Dr. Logan gave her paid off in spades for Buffy, enabling her to remain one step ahead of the rush – first at picking up her daughter, then making her way onto the highway towards L.A.  As Buffy settled in for the drive, she asked her daughter about her day…anything to keep her mind off of telling her mother the news. 

She just wasn’t sure how Joyce was going to take it, or how she was going to tell her.  It wasn’t like she could just announce out of the blue, “Hey mom, I’m pregnant again.  And, you’re never guess who the father is…No, no, no… guess.  It’s William, well Spike.  You know…the ‘Spike’ from Hollywood.  The famous actor ‘Spike.’  Yep… Can you believe it?” 

She’d played out their conversation over and over in her mind and still had yet to come up with a way to break it to her mother.  Buffy pushed those thoughts aside and concentrated on her daughter.  One thing at a time.  She’d be in L.A. soon enough. 

~*~*~*~*~

“Hey, mom,” she greeted as she walked through the front door. 

“Hey, honey.  How’s my girl?  Fine.” 

“No problems driving in?” 

“No…Dr. Logan let us out a bit early, so I got a head start.  How are things at the gallery?”  ‘All right, Buffy! Way to get it out in the open!’ 

“Wonderful actually.  I just started hosting a new artist.  She shows a lot of promise. Kind of reminds me of you, in fact.” 

“Yeah?” 

“Uh huh.  Maybe we can stop by the gallery tomorrow.  I’ll show you some of her work.” 

“Sounds good.” 

“Are you hungry?” her mother asked. 

“Just a little.  Didn’t really eat a big lunch…” she began, only to have her stomach growl on her. 

“Come on.  Let’s go get something to eat.  What do you feel like?” 

“Pizza!” Dawn chimed in at last, gaining her grandmother’s attention. 

“Pizza?  You’re gonna turn into a pizza,” she teased her granddaughter as she lifted the girl into her arms for a big hug. 

“Nu uh!” 

Joyce looked over Dawn’s shoulder at her daughter, raising an eyebrow in question.  Buffy just shrugged. 

“Why not.” 

“Ok.  Pizza it is.  Do you want to just take your car since the seat is already in place?” 

“Sure, as long as you’re driving.” 

~*~*~*~*~ 

They’d eaten at Rose’s, a quaint Italian restaurant that made excellent pizza, and had returned to get Dawn bathed and in bed.  Now it was just mother and daughter, alone on the couch…silently watching television. 

When a commercial break came on, Joyce got her daughter’s attention. 

“You want to tell me what’s on your mind, Buffy?” 

“Huh?” Caught red-handed, she didn’t know what to say. 

“Buffy…this is your mother.  You’ve been acting like you’ve wanted to tell me something all night.  So…” 

“Uh…” 

“It’s ok, honey.  You know I’m here for you.” 

And, that was all it took for Buffy to break down and start crying.  Closing the distance on the couch, she leaned into her mother and sought the arms of her parent…needing the emotional support she could provide. 

“I’m pregnant,” she blurted out around her sobs. 

“Oh… honey!” she responded, pulling her daughter close as the younger woman sobbed in her arms.  Joyce ran her hands down Buffy’s hair in a soothing gesture, whispering comforting words as she tried to get her daughter to stop crying. 

“It’ll be ok.” 

And Buffy knew it would be. 

~*~*~*~*~ 

The ringing phone jarred the two women apart, and Buffy reluctantly left her mother’s embrace to answer the phone. 

“Hello,” she answered somewhat shakily, wiping the tears from her eyes. 

“Buffy?  Are you ok?” 

“William.  Yes…” 

“You’re crying!” 

“Well, um…not anymore.”  She attempted to laugh.  “Just girl talk.  Me and my mom…” 

She glanced over at her mother, and noticed the assessing look.  Damn.  So much for keeping the father out of it. 

“Oh…ok.  I’m sorry.  I’ll let you get back.  You said plans, and I don’t know why I thought…  Never mind.  You and your mum have a nice visit.  I’ll call you tomorrow, alright?” 

“Uh… alright.” ‘Just what had he thought?’ 

“Goodnight, Buffy.” 

“’Nite.” Then, Buffy just stared at her phone as she heard the dial tone sound in her ear. 

She pushed the off button and took her seat next to her mom.  Joyce draped an arm around her daughter’s shoulder and pulled her close. 

“So…” 

“Um…yeah.  See…the thing is…remember how you told me to live a little?  Well, I did…I was, living that is.” 

Beside her, Joyce just coaxed her daughter to continue. 

“And, well…you see.  I met this guy.  William.  My next-door neighbor at the cottages in Crackington Haven.  And…oh mom…he was wonderful.  Nice.  Funny.  Ya know…all the things you want but never hope to get in a man?” 

“Uh huh.” 

“Well…it’s funny.  When I first met him, I took one look at him and wanted nothing to do with him.  See…he was gorgeous, and after my dealings with Angel…suffice to say, looks no longer appealed.  But, oh boy…” 

“A hottie?” Joyce asked, glancing at her daughter. 

“Definitely a hottie,” Buffy answered, giggling at her mom’s terminology.  Then, she proceeded to tell her mom all about her time in England, from her meeting Jake the pub owner that first day to when she’d finally left for her return flight – just glossing over the more intimate parts – as well as him finding her on campus yesterday and their subsequent lunch “date” at McDonalds. 

When she was finished, Joyce asked her daughter, “So, not once did birth control enter into your mind.” 

Buffy flushed.  Actually, birth control had been the last thing on her mind. 

“Yeah, well, that’s not even the best part.” 

“Oh?” 

“Yeah.”  Buffy sighed heavily.  “William? The father? is none other than ‘Spike.’” 

“Spike?” 

“Uh huh…you know, Spike?  The big-time movie actor Spike?” 

“No…can’t say that I do know.  But, then, I don’t get to the movie theaters like I used to.” 

“Well, he’s probably ‘the’ most famous actor in Hollywood right now.” 

“And, that’s why you slept with him,” she asked her daughter, already knowing the answer. 

“No. No!  I…” 

“Love him?” 

“Yes…” she whispered. 

“So, what’s the problem?”   

Leave it to her mother to make things seem so easy. 

“Well, it was bad enough that it was just William’s child.  Now… I…it’s just…difficult.” 

Joyce sat beside her and let out an unladylike snort. 

“Why?” 

“Why what?” Buffy asked, confused. 

“Why is it difficult?” Joyce asked patiently. 

“I dunno.  It just is.” 

“Does he love you?” her mom asked. 

“I don’t know,” Buffy whispered.  “We never did talk about it before…and then I just left…” 

“What do you mean you just left?” 

“I just…couldn’t deal with it being just a thing for him, and I didn’t want him to know…it was…I just…” 

“You ran,” her mother stated plainly. 

“Yes.  But, you know my history.  And here’s this gorgeous guy who could have anybody.  Why would he want me?” 

“Oh, honey.  Just because Angel was a prick…” 

“Mom!” 

“Well, he was.  But, as I was saying…it doesn’t mean that all men are.” 

“What about dad?” 

“Probably from the same gene pool as Angel,” she muttered under her breath. 

“I heard that,” Buffy giggled. 

“Yes, well.  But, look at Dr. Logan.  He’s a nice man.” 

“But, how can you be sure?” 

“You can’t, Buffy,” her mother told her, squeezing her arm in a brief hug.  “But, some things worth having are worth taking the risk to experience.” 

“Yeah, but.” 

“No buts. If you constantly close yourself off from others, the only person you’re really hurting in the long run is yourself.  Don’t you think you deserve a second chance?” 

A second chance… 

“But…” 

Joyce leaned away from her daughter so that she could look her in the face. 

“What about the baby?” Buffy asked her mother. 

“Honey, if this man cares about you…I don’t think the fact that you’re going to have his baby is going to signify.” 

“But, how will I know that he wants me for me, and not because I’m carrying his child.” 

“Listen to yourself.” 

“What?” 

“You said yourself that you ran.  Obviously you didn’t leave him any kind of forwarding information, right?” 

“Yeah…” 

She loved her daughter, she really did.  But, sometimes Joyce wished her daughter wasn’t so thick. 

“Do you think a man that cares nothing about you would manage to use what little bit of information you gave him about yourself to track you down?  Would practically stalk you on campus to find you?” 

Buffy didn’t have an answer.  And, it wouldn’t be the last time over the weekend that her mother’s words didn’t play back in her mind.

Chapter 19

Buffy left early Sunday morning so that she'd get back to Sunnydale and still have time to unwind before classes tomorrow – allowing her mother to go in to the gallery to prepare her newest exhibit. The weekend had been a revelation, and after the numerous heart-to-hearts with her mother, she decided she was going to bite the proverbial bullet and tell William about the baby.   

During the drive home, she played several scenarios over in her mind about what exactly she was going to say.  But, by the time she’d pulled into the parking space outside her apartment, she’d still had yet to come up with a way to spring the news on him.  Buffy gripped the steering wheel tightly in her hands and softly banged her head against them a few times in frustration.   

There was just no easy way to explain… 

Shoving aside her brief pity party, she opened the door and stepped from the vehicle.  Her daughter had fallen asleep about a half hour ago, and as she looked down at the slumbering girl, tears filled her eyes.  Pretty soon, Dawn would have a sibling to play with…she’d no longer be her little baby anymore. 

Quietly opening the door so as not to awaken her, Buffy carefully unbuckled her daughter and lifted her lax body into her arms.  Turning, she made her way to the porch and held her daughter with one hand, using the other to unlock and open the front door.   

Once her daughter was safely deposited in her bed, she walked back out to the car and retrieved her bags.  She wanted to get a little bit of studying done since she’d left her books at home, but the yawn that parted her lips attested to her exhaustion and she bypassed the nursing books where she’d left them on the table and collapsed wearily on the couch to take a quick nap. 

~*~*~*~*~ 

The soft chiming of the front door announced the arrival of a customer, and Joyce looked over from where she stood on the short ladder hanging an oil painting to glance at the gorgeous brunette as she walked into the gallery, talking over her shoulder to a trio of men behind her. 

“…just be a minute.  Sheesh!  Now be good boys and don’t touch anything.” 

“She always like this, mate?” the blond-headed man asked a shorter man – who was currently sporting an interesting shade of blue hair.  Surprisingly, it seemed to fit him. 

Oz looked back at Giles and just shrugged. 

“We’ve…ah…learned long ago to just follow obediently,” the older man replied, winking. 

“Right then.  Let’s have us a look.” 

William left the two men behind and started wandering around the gallery.  So preoccupied with Cordy’s inane chatter as they left the eatery a few places down, he’d failed to catch the name of the establishment.  He was just about to walk back to the entrance and see for himself, when something caught his attention. 

Veering from his path to the front door, he stopped before an 8 x 10 photograph.  His finger reached out as if to touch it… 

“What are you doing?” Cordelia hissed at him as she reached his side. 

He didn’t answer, just continued to gaze at the other photographs – his hand poised midway to the first one he’d seen.  There were twelve in all – three rows of four each hung on the wall beside the discreet checkout counter. 

With an exaggerated roll of her eyes at his lack of words, she glanced at the wall to see what held him so entranced. 

“Oh…very nice,” she murmured appreciatively. 

Joyce finished getting the painting hung just so and stepped carefully down off of the ladder.  She hurriedly closed it and removed it to the back office then went over to greet her customers. 

“Good morning,” she greeted the striking couple. 

“Hello…we were just admiring this set here.  Who’s the artist?” 

“Uh… those are part of my personal collection.  The artist wishes to remain anonymous.” 

“How much?” William asked, never taking his eyes off the photographs.  He was particularly entranced by the photo of a lone man standing on the beach looking out over the water.  

“I’m sorry, sir.  They’re not for sale.” 

“Five thousand,” he cut her off. 

Joyce gaped at the man, and watched as the woman standing next to him did the same. 

“Ten thousand,” he spoke again when Joyce didn’t answer. 

“I’m sorry,” she whispered, shaking her head. 

“William, you heard the lady.  They’re not for sale.” 

“Cordy, you don’t understand.  They’re hers.  I was there.”  He lifted anguished eyes to her and pointed to one of the photographs.  “That’s me…” 

Behind him, Joyce gasped.  This was Buffy’s William? 

“Fifteen thousand,” he told the woman, turning away from the brunette to look at the proprietress.  

Joyce’s jaw dropped when she finally got a good look at him.  Her daughter could sure pick ‘em.  True, he was gorgeous in a bad boy image kind of way.  But, it was his eyes that convinced Joyce.  He was going to make a good son-in-law. 

She walked over to him and looped her arm through his. 

“Tell you what…you give me a good reason for wanting those photographs, and I might be persuaded to ask the artist to develop a second set.  Ah, ah, ah…” she started when he went to protest her terms.  “Those are mine, and I’m quite partial to them.  Take it or leave it.” 

“Deal.” 

“Why don’t you come in the back with me and I’ll make you a nice cup of cocoa.” 

William was led docilely away, much to the amusement of Cordelia.  She shook her head as Oz and Giles walked up and joined her. 

“I wouldn’t have believed it if I hadn’t seen it with my own eyes,” she told the two.  “Hollywood’s most eligible and famous actor, being led about like some tame puppy.” 

“Come on,” she urged, walking towards the exit. “I have a feeling he’s gonna be a while.  We can pass the time shopping on the strip.” 

Behind her, both men cringed in horror. 

“Is it too early to start drinking?” Oz asked the older man. 

~*~*~*~*~ 

William looked at the mug placed before him then glanced up at the woman hovering near his side.  She arched her brow at him, waiting for him to proceed, and he found himself at a sudden loss for words.  He looked around the small office as he attempted to get his bearings and his gaze fell upon a photo on the woman’s desk. 

“You’re her mother,” he exclaimed. 

“And, you’re William.” 

Feeling like a fish out of water, he just stared at the older woman, waiting to see how she’d react. 

Joyce could feel her lips twitching as she struggled not to laugh.  Poor man!  Didn’t know how to act. 

“She told me you had a gallery.  It just didn’t dawn on me… That’s me, by the way, in one of those photos,” he told her softly. 

“I know,” she told him quietly.  She leaned back against the counter and waited for him to proceed. 

“I…” he began. 

“Do you love my daughter, William?” she cut him off, eyes narrowed on his face as she searched his eyes for any hint of a lie. 

“With all my heart,” he told her. 

Her shoulders dropped and she heaved a sigh.  “It’s not going to be easy, I’ll tell you right now.  She’s been hurt, and bad.  She’s had to grow up a lot sooner than I would have liked.  And, my daughter’s just now gotten her life on track with school.  I’ll not have you messing that up for her.” 

“I wouldn’t…” 

“If you break her heart…”  She left the threat hanging between them. 

“I won’t…” 

“You’ll be getting yourself into an instant family.  And, I won’t stand for any snubbing of her daughter.  If you can’t deal with that, you should just walk away right now.” 

“I…Me mum’s been hammerin’ at me to give her some grandbabies…And, the ‘Bit?  What’s not to love?” 

Joyce smiled at him, pleased. 

“Well, all right then.  Welcome to the family, William.  Provided, that is, that you can get Buffy to agree.”  Secretly, she had no doubt that he’d be able to.  She liked him.  Underneath that gruff exterior and Hollywood persona was a down-to-earth man that apparently loved her little girl. 

~*~*~*~*~ 

William planned his strategy the entire drive back to Sunnydale.   

After his brief chat with Buffy’s mum, he’d gone looking for his friends, quickly finding them two shops down in a shoe boutique.  Oz and Giles had looked at him with relief in their eyes at ending their impromptu shopping torture. 

“Sorry, guys,” he’d told them. 

“Everything all right?” Oz had asked. 

“Yeah.  You won’t believe whose gallery that was.” 

The two men had looked at him and waited.  He’d rushed on to explain about this girl he’d met while vacationing in the UK.  But as one of the clerks had come back to where the group had stood – recognizing him – he had abruptly stopped talking.  He hadn’t wanted Access Hollywood reporting on his love life.  He had given them a look that said he’d finish the conversation once they were alone. 

Cordelia had seen the glazed eyes come over the employee’s features and had hurriedly finished her purchase.  The small group had just barely managed to escape the shop before the paparazzi had descended upon them. 

Once assured of privacy in Oz’s car, he’d told the trio all about Buffy.  They’d all seemed genuinely happy for him and expressed interest in meeting the girl.  They’d arrived back at their hotel and he’d told them he would arrange a little get-together…just as soon as he convinced her to marry him. 

“Good luck,” Cordy had teased, winking at him. 

Now, as he closed in on the city limits of Sunnydale, he couldn’t seem to stop the permanent grin plastered to his face.  With his friends and Buffy’s mother backing him, he couldn’t fail. 

~*~*~*~*~ 

Buffy walked across campus with a spring in her step and a smile on her face.  After this past week, she thought that it would be a permanent fixture on her face.   

He’d called her every night like clockwork, his calls a welcome respite from her endless studying.  He’d even called one time when both Tara and Willow were over, and after hanging up, she’d broken down and told the two about him – explaining that he was the father of her baby, although, she didn’t tell them “who” exactly he was. 

She’d seen the two girls reaction to him onscreen and didn’t need the added stress of tongue-tied friends that might unintentionally babble her secret.  She liked the fact that she had him all to herself…even if she hadn’t actually “seen” him all week.  For a little while longer, William could just be hers.  She was sure that “Spike’s” relationship – if she could call what they had a relationship – would become common knowledge soon enough, and she mentally cringed at the thought.  

The Scooby Doo ring of her cell phone interrupted her thoughts. 

“Hello?” 

“Hey, sweetheart!  How are you?” 

“Mom, hi!  What are you doing calling me?” 

“Well, actually, I’m at your place.  I came up to steal my grandchild for the weekend.” ‘And give you some William-bonding time,’ she added silently. 

“Wha?  Really?” 

“Uh huh.  We had so much fun while you were gone, so we’re gonna take a mini-weekend…just the two of us.  So, you swing by her school and pick her up, and I’ll pack her a bag.” 

“Uhhh… ok,” she replied hesitantly.  She slipped into her car drove towards school to get her daughter. 

~*~*~*~*~ 

Buffy had just eased down into the bubbles that almost overflowed the small tub…and wouldn’t you guess, the damn phone rang.  She slid forward in the tub, causing water and bubbles to slosh over the side, as she reached for her phone resting on the toilet seat. 

“Hello,” she answered, a cross between breathlessness and annoyance. 

“Hello, pet.” 

Damned if she didn’t get little tinglies zinging up her insides as his accented voice resounded in her ear. 

“Hi…” She pushed herself back in the tub so that she could lean against the back wall, careful to keep her cell phone dry.  “Oh, hell,” she mumbled as more water spilled over the side. 

“What?” 

“Nothing.  Just making a mess in the bathroom.  Spilling water all over the floor… Damn, I’m gonna have to clean that up.” 

Images of a naked Buffy immersed in a sudsy bath sprang to mind, and William cleared his throat before speaking again. 

“I…I guess that answers what you were doing,” he remarked ruefully. 

“It never fails…take a bath or a shower and the damn phone rings.” 

“Right then…”  His imagination was working overtime, and he fancied himself a nice long wank in the shower to ease the ache in his pants. 

Unless… 

“I know I said tomorrow, but…see me tonight.” 

Buffy sat in the tub in indecision.  If he came over, without the buffer of her daughter, they were going to end up in bed.  Her willpower where he was concerned was nonexistent.  But, if she waited until tomorrow, where she was assured of a public outing, she’d be safe. 

‘Are you crazy?  The kid is out of town and your debating?  Tell him yes already and go throw on something sexy!’ 

“Ok.”  And, she quickly gave him directions to her place before she could change her mind.

Chapter 20

“Don’t know what you’re getting all bloody excited for, mate.  It’s not like you can just waltz right in there and shag her senseless.  She does have the ‘Bit with her,” he mumbled to himself, carefully following the directions she’d given him over the phone. 

Variations of that same conversation played over and over in his mind on the drive to Buffy’s place.  He’d finally told his inner voice to “bugger off” – he just wanted to be with the girl.  He wasn’t going there just so he could get horizontal with her.  Well, that would be nice…but, he could wait.  Besides, with as jittery as she’d been last weekend, he didn’t need to scare her off with his overactive libido. 

He parked the car in the Sunnydale Arms apartment complex and double-checked his directions.  He’d not gotten a good look at her car, so he couldn’t scan the parking lot looking for hers to make sure he was in the right area.  Glancing up, he looked at the building in front of him for an apartment number.  1015.  Perfect.  He was in the right spot. 

As he walked towards her front door, he was surprised at how nervous he felt.  Like a teenage git picking up his first date.  Oh, how the mighty have fallen… 

Then he was before her door, ringing the bell, and there was no turning back.   

His jaw dropped when the door swung open.  Her hair was still damp along the tips from her bath, and she seemed to be wearing nothing but a bathrobe.  A sexy bathrobe.  A sexy, silky, barely-covering-her-ass bathrobe. 

Talk about your instant hard-on! 

He just gaped at her as she leaned against the doorjamb, a come hither expression on her face.  His jaw worked as he attempted to rein in his lust before it threatened to overwhelm him…then she crooked her finger at him.  The cheeky little chit.  Just as bold as brass, gesturing him toward her… 

“The ‘Bit?” he managed to choke out before he completely lost it. 

“My mother’s watching her for a few days,” she told him, grinning like a Cheshire cat that had just been given a bowl of cream. 

‘Thank you, Joyce!’ he offered up that silent prayer. 

He moved in a blur, swooping Buffy up in his arms as he kicked the door shut behind him.  Then, he was moving, swift steps that led down that hall and hopefully, to her bedroom. 

“Tell me to stop,” he urged. 

“Don’t stop,” she murmured.  “Don’t ever stop.” 

“Buffy…” A groan.  Then his mouth was on hers and he was kissing her with all the pent up emotion he’d shoved down deep after he’d found out she’d left. 

But now she was here, with him…wanted him just as much as he wanted her. 

He set her down on her feet at the foot of the bed.  His eyes took in the red creation hiding her body from his gaze.  A hand moved to the belt and with a quick tug, the binding came loose.  Both hands came up to slip under the garment on either side of her neck; he moved his hands outward, pushing the silky material from her shoulders to fall to the floor behind her. 

William sucked in his breath.  She was naked beneath the robe.  Groaning softly, he dropped to his knees before her and buried his nose in her stomach. 

The action almost reduced Buffy to tears.  It was like he was talking to the tiny creation growing inside her womb.  She blinked rapidly, fisting her fingers in his hair to hold him close.   

She felt him shift in front of her; his tongue slipped between his parted lips to dip inside and tease her belly button.  William positioned her in front of the bed before urging her to sit, then to lay back.  She complied hesitantly, unsure of what he planned to do. 

Her hips arched off the bed when his tongue licked up and down her slit. 

“William!” she cried. 

He teased her over and over; up and down in a lazy pattern…then finally he took mercy on her and delved between her outer lips.  God, it felt so damn good…she’d almost forgotten the things he could do to her.  Almost.   

“Please,” she whimpered, unable to stand the agony any longer. 

A finger replaced his tongue, freeing it to lave the swollen nubbin begging for friction.  A second and then a third finger joined the first, and Buffy sighed in pleasure as he stretched her.  The quick pace of his thrusts quickly brought her to her first orgasm.  And, as her inner walls milked his digits, a gasped “William” left her parted lips. 

She fell back, limp, against the mattress.  Watched in a daze as he slipped his fingers from her and brought them to his mouth…tasting her. 

“Mmmmmm…more,” she murmured, holding her arms up for him. 

William stood in front of her and quickly shed his clothes – uncaring where they fell.  His attention was riveted on the angel spread out on the bed in front of him.  When the last garment fell away from his lean body, he walked around the side of the bed and easily lifted Buffy and resettled her on the middle of the mattress. 

She turned on her side as he stretched out alongside her.  They reached simultaneously for one another.  Lips met and reacquainted themselves.  Bare flesh melded with bare flesh…the contact causing them both to groan in pleasure into the other’s mouth.  He lifted Buffy’s leg and draped it over his thigh so he could get closer to her…always closer. 

Buffy rolled to her back and easily brought William with her to settle between her parted thighs.  After such a long separation, she didn’t think she could wait much longer for him to be inside her, filling her, stretching her in the most pleasurable of ways.  Next time.  Next time they could take it slow and reacquaint themselves to the other’s body.  See if their memories did justice to the reality. 

But William wasn’t cooperating.  Yeah, he’d followed her and now lay nestled between the vee of her legs, but he wasn’t moving.  Why wasn’t he moving?  She opened her eyes to see what the problem might be…find out why he was hesitating… 

He was just staring at her.  Those deep, penetrating blue eyes were gazing down at her, and she got lost in them.  Could only stare back helplessly.  The emotion there surprised her.  The intensity…it shocked her, yet warmed her.  Like a flame from within, the heat radiated in her center until it encompassed her being. 

He was looking at her with such…love. 

Dear God!  He loved her!  Her.  Buffy.  Single-mom extraordinaire.   

She couldn’t help it.  The tears came unbidden.  Here was a man that loved her for her.  The proof was right there in front of her eyes.  Laid bare for all to see. 

“Oh, William!” she cried, overcome.  Her hand reached up to caress his face, the high cheekbones; the soft, wide lips.  She’d never get enough of him. 

“Come to me,” she urged, pulling him down on top of her. 

She gasped as he slid home, sheathing himself to the hilt.  Her legs wrapped around him, holding him close, her fingers danced up and down along his back as he moved inside her.  Deep thrusts that ignited a spark inside her…that quickly raged to an out-of-control inferno.  The bed rocked beneath them as his thrusting increased in urgency.  Both were poised, eager to seek the prize that awaited them, arms outstretched as if they could almost reach it. 

Then it was upon them and Buffy arched into him as her orgasm rushed through her body. 

“I love you, William,” she shouted, as her body freefell into oblivion.  Yet she wasn’t scared; she knew that he’d be there to catch her.  

Her words were music to his ears, were that little umph that sent him careening over the edge to join her in bliss.  As he spent himself deep within her womb, he realized he’d finally come home. 

Home was here, in her arms.

As heartbeats and breathing slowed, he collapsed beside her and pulled her flushed body close to his.  He couldn’t stop touching her, would never stop touching her. 

“Did you mean it?” he asked.  “Because, you can’t take it back.  You said.  I distinctly heard the words.  You said, ‘I love you, William.’” 

“Yes…and I do love you.  I loved you then.  So much…so much that I knew…knew I couldn’t bear it if you didn’t.  I tried not to…was trying to be the sophisticated woman…but…I guess I just was not cut out to be.” 

“Shhh…It’s ok, sweetheart.  I’m here,” he soothed.  “I’m not going anywhere.  Don’t you know how much you mean to me?” 

“No,” she whispered, shaking her head.  “Tell me.” 

“You’re my reason for being.  When you left…it was like you took my heart and soul with you.  I couldn’t sleep. Couldn’t eat. I was a right bloody wanker to be around.” 

“Really?” she squeaked. 

“Yes, really.  I love you, Buffy.  It’s not some stupid little holiday romance that’ll burn itself out in a few weeks.  You own my heart.  I want to marry you, have little Buffy’s and William’s running about our feet…that we can ship off to the mums’ when they drive us crazy.  I want to share my life with you, grow old with you…” 

“Oh, William!” she cried.  “I love you so much!” 

This time, their lovemaking was slow.  Every touch, every gesture bespoke the love the two shared for one another.  And, after they climaxed in each other’s arms they held one another…whispering their love for each other over and over. 

~*~*~*~*~ 

“Did you mean it?” she asked a while later. 

“Mean what, luv.” 

“About the babies and stuff…” 

“If this is about the ‘Bit, I’m telling you right now, I’ll love her like my own.” 

“I know you will.  You don’t do things in half measures.  But, actually…the reason why I ask…”  She bit her lip uncertainly.  “I’m pregnant.” 

She couldn’t see his face, laying tucked back against him as he fingers trailed up and down the length of her arm.  But, she felt him stiffen, felt his hand stop its gentle caress…and she prepared herself for the worst. 

One minute she was snuggled against William, his arms wrapped lovingly around her, then next, she found herself flat on her back, the coverlet thrown off her body as he examined her stomach.  She watched with indrawn breath as he lowered his head to her stomach, placed his ear against it as if her could hear the heartbeat.  The look of awe humbled her and she couldn’t believe she’d ever doubted him. 

“Hey, lil ‘Bit,” he spoke to her stomach.  “It’s your da.” 

William placed a quick kiss to Buffy’s stomach and then moved up to claim her lips in a searing kiss. 

“I take it this means you’re happy,” she gasped once they came up for air. 

“Oh, luv.  Happy just doesn’t begin to cover it!” 

~*~*~*~*~ 

They traveled to Crackington Haven for the wedding, for it was there that they’d met, there that they’d first fallen in love.  It seemed only right that they’d bind themselves to one another where it all began. 

William didn’t know how he’d managed to keep the wedding under wraps.  They’d decided to keep it small – just family and a few close friends.  Willow was Buffy’s maid of honor; Tara her second bridesmaid.  Dawn made the most adorable flower girl.  Rick stood in as best man with Jake as a fellow groomsmen.  The mother of the bride and mother of the groom sat side-by-side and cried as their only offspring were married. 

In all, it was a beautiful wedding, untouched by commercialization or news crews.  To Buffy, he was just William, the anonymous man she’d fallen hopelessly in love with such a short time ago – she didn’t need the big fanfare that seemed to surround celebrity weddings.  Their wedding was all she could ever hope for…just a small affair with a few people to share in her joy.  Their joy. 

And, as the priest spoke the words binding them together until death-to-they-part, Buffy felt such happiness.  She looked into the eyes of her love, her other half, and knew she’d finally gotten her second chance.

Epilogue

“Are you having fun?” William asked from his place beside her as they rode in the back of the limousine. 

“Uh huh,” she replied, nodding in delight for a moment before returning to gazing out the window in wide-eyed wonder. 

He sat back in his seat.  Funny…he used to hate these things, but now that he had her beside him, her infectious enthusiasm rubbing off on him…he thought he’d actually be able to enjoy the event tonight. 

Traffic was moving at a snail’s pace down Hollywood Boulevard and William was happy that he wasn’t driving in this mess.  Rather than let the tortuously slow drive get him down, he just watched his “date.” 

Finally, it was their turn and he braced himself for the hoopla his appearance was about to generate.  He stepped from the car and reached his hand inside to help her out.  She smiled up at him, a wide smile tinged with a small amount of fear at the three-ring circus happening all around them.  William tucked her hand in his and pulled her close as she exited the vehicle.  He paused for a moment so that she could settle her dress around her frame, smiling up at him once she was ready.  He smiled back and together they joined the throng of other actors beginning their walk up the red carpet. 

She caused a sensation, walking beside him, her hand held tightly in his own.  All around them the crowd of fans – not to mention the paparazzi – were going crazy.  Shouted “ooohhh’s” and “awwww’s” could be heard over the cheering, and William just smiled down at her as she tucked herself closer to him. 

“You ok, pet?” 

“Uh huh.  There sure are a lot of people here, huh?” 

“That there are.  Anyone in particular you want to meet?” 

“Not really…” she replied. 

He’d decided that he’d make his announcement through the people at Entertainment Tonight.  The Rivers women drove him up the wall, and if Joan had one more facelift…he didn’t want to finish that thought as the mental image flashed before his eyes.  Meandering his way through the crowds, he paused every now and then when he ran into a fellow co-star or director he’d worked with. 

They eventually made their way over to the Entertainment Tonight “area” and he was quickly ushered in for a brief interview after they finished up with Catherine.  She gave him a smile and a slight wave before joining her husband, Michael – her eyes widened momentarily before her face softened into a sincere smile for his date.  He gave her a brief nod to indicate that they’d talk later.  Then, he stepped up on the small raised platform, carefully pulling his girl up beside him. 

“We’re here, live, with Spike…who’s been nominated for best actor for his role in Staying Power,” Mary Hart began her spiel, then stuttered when she caught sight of his date – even though he’d dated several high-profile actresses, he’d always brought his mother to the award shows. Her gaze honed in on the person by his side, sensing an exclusive, and he waited for her to recover her poise. 

His opinion of her went up a few notches when she smiled at him and stuck with business.  So, when he was done with the customary formalities – the outfits, the movie, the cast, etc. – he took a moment to introduce his date. 

He looked right into the camera when he spoke. 

“Mary, I’d like you to meet my daughter, Dawn.  Dawnie, this is Mary.  She’s a reporter for a television station.” 

~*~ 

At home, the heavily pregnant Buffy, and her mother sat on the couch – a bowl of popcorn held between them – and burst into tears. 

“Oh, how I love that man!” 

“You did good this time, honey,” Joyce replied, hugging her daughter close.  The two hurriedly wiped their eyes so they could see Dawnie smile shyly into the camera. 

~*~ 

“Hi Dawn, it’s nice to meet you.  Any thing you’d like to say for the folks at home?” 

Beside him, Dawn just scooted a little closer.  He smiled, leaning down to whisper into the girl’s ear. 

“Really?” she asked. 

“Uh huh,” he replied, nodding. 

“Can I say hello to my mom?” 

“Sure you can, sweetheart.  Just look right at that man standing behind me and say hello.” 

“Hi mommy!” She waved happily at the camera.  “I’m having lots of fun.” 

“Is that ok?” she whispered to the side to William. 

“That’s fine, Niblet.” 

“Aren’t you gonna say hi?” 

“’Course I am.”  He looked up at the camera and spoke.  “I love you, Buffy.  See you soon, baby.” 

~*~ 

The two women just sighed dreamily.  The phone rang just then, and Joyce reached over to answer it. 

“Hello.” 

“Oh, hi Anne.  Yes, we just saw…and yes, she’d adorable.  Buffy’s sitting next to me crying her eyes out… What… no… not me.  I never cry.”  Joyce sniffed, laughing at something the other woman said, then rang off. 

“William’s mom?” 

“Yeah.  She said she bawled like a baby at his announcement.” 

“As if you didn’t.” 

“Hey!” 

“So, did she finally break down and decide to come this way for the birth?” 

“She didn’t say, but I’m sure between you and William…she’ll cave.  If not, you’ll just bring out the big guns.  She wouldn’t refuse Dawnie.” 

~*~ 

After his announcement, the paparazzi were in frenzy trying to get at him.  He easily bypassed them and pushed his way through the thinning crowds into the theater. 

He paused as he felt a slight tugging on his hand.  Looking down, he asked, “Something you need, ‘Niblet?” 

“I have to go to the bathroom.” 

“Right then.  I think we can manage that.”  Although, he had no earthly idea how he was going to manage it.  He just prayed he’d encounter someone he knew before he reached the ladies room – he didn’t want to have to cause a scene by going inside with Dawnie.  William breathed a sigh of relief when he spotted his female costar from Staying Power. 

“Oh, thank God!  Charlie, would you mind taking Dawnie inside?  She’s gotta go to the loo.” 

“Sure thing, Will,” she told him, bending down so she could introduce herself to the little girl.  “Hi, I’m Charlize, but my good friends call me Charlie.” 

“Nice to meet you, Charlie.” 

“Well, come on then,” she told the girl, slipping her larger hand in hers.  “Let’s get you all beautified for the ceremony.” 

William watched the two slip inside the restroom, and he commenced to pacing in front of the door until the ‘Bit emerged a few minutes later. 

“Thanks, Charlie.  I owe you one!” 

“No problem.  She’s a doll.  I’ll see you down front.” 

“’K,” he mumbled distractedly, eyes glued to the little girl. 

~*~*~*~*~ 

“And the award goes to….Spike,” Charlize announced – the presenter for the best actor award since she’d won the previous year’s best actress award. 

All around him, people were slapping him on the back, patting his arm, or attempting to shake his hand in congratulations.  He was oblivious to it all, his eyes currently locked on the slumbering form of his daughter in her seat beside him.  He didn’t want to leave her there alone, so he stood, easily lifting her into his arms as he made his way – a very short way – to the podium.  The applause rose to a fevered pitch as sighs issued forth from many of the females at the fatherly figure he made. 

He couldn’t take the award with his hands full, so he gestured for Charlize to hold it for him.  She nodded and indicated the podium.  Settling Dawnie more comfortably in his arms he spoke. 

“I’d like to thank the Academy,” he started – but his voice trailed off.  “Actually, rather than make an itemized laundry list of everyone that helped get where I was…if you’ll indulge me…I’ll keep it rather simple.  Buffy, I love you…and this precious gift I’m holding…she’s…you’re both my world.  Without you, I’m nothing.” 

He walked away from the podium to the stunned silence of his peers (even the orchestra was quiet as his footsteps clicked across the stage) …almost made it to the wings before the thunderous applause resounded throughout the theater. 

There wasn’t a dry eye in the house.

The End