What Dreams May Bring – Chapter 12 – Circle of Life

January 2015 – They Say It's Your Birthday

Buffy sits on the corner of their bed, ghosting her hand over Spike's emaciated face. Never in a million years will she get used to body heat emanating from her husband. It's just not natural. She's so focused on her spouse that the sound of the door opening doesn't register.

Hurrying up the stairs, Dawn rushes to her sister's side, while Willow slips around to sit by Spike, wondering what could affect the vampire to such a degree.

His color is off. She's never seen him quite so pink before, and his breathing is rapid and shallow. Wait a minute…

"How long has Spike been like this?" Take it slow, Will – Buffy looks like she's at the end of her rope.

Buffy raises her head from her sister's shoulder, trying to figure out what her friend is talking about. She's still finding it hard to believe she's not alone at the moment. It's been so long since she's actually spoken to anyone.

"Oh, you mean Spike's color? Or the sweat? He's been feverish on and off all year. It's nowhere near as high as his last fever…"

Willow shook her head. "No, silly goose. How long has he been breathing?"

What kind of question is that? "Spike usually breathes in his sleep. Something you'd never have the chance to notice, but I'm used to it."

"Oookay…" Nervous but trusting a feeling, Willow places her hand on the center of Spike's chest.

Buffy turns, unable to wrap her mind around what she's seeing. "What's with the touchy-feely?"

Grabbing Buffy's hand, Willow places it palm down on Spike's chest, where her hand has just been. Before she can remove it from shock, a warm wrist clasps around her own, and Buffy looks into her husband's eyes for the first time in weeks.

"Bloody hell. Why is it that every time I try an' sleep, someone's pokin' or grabbin' at me? Can't a sick man rest in peace?"

Dawn squeals. She may be twenty-eight years old, but the shock has her reverting to her old, childish habits. "Oh my God! Oh my God! Oh my God!"

Spike attempts to sit up and fails; still too weak to move even his diminished body weight. There's also the issue of Buffy's hand not moving from his chest. Suddenly, things click into place… Dawn, Willow… "How long have I been out of it this time, luv?"

The news that he's been out cold for at least two weeks leaves Spike speechless. The fact that he's surrounded by women who can't keep their hands off him has him flummoxed. Not that he minds, much… but Dawn groping him gives him a slight case of the wiggins.

"I know I'm a beauty, pet," he says to his wife, "but what's with the group groping?"

The women giggle. The look on Spike's face is priceless.

"You really can't tell, can you?" Dawn smiles, torn between amazement and the need to write this all down for the record.

"Tell what?"

Buffy places his hand over his heart, and waits for the light of recognition to set in. One… two… beautiful!

His eyes widen and a soft "Ohhhh" escapes his lips. Alive. He is alive! A real boy at last. In the space of two heartbeats, he realizes he's wanted it all along. To grow old with his wife in the natural order of things. With any luck, he won't be stuck watching everyone wither and die along with Angel. Immortality isn't the boon people think, when everyone you care about is mortal.

"The mites? Where are the kidlets?" he asks.

Spike manages to sit up, feeling an uncomfortable pressure in his lower abdomen. For the first time in one hundred and thirty five years, he has to pee. Blessedly, he makes it to the bathroom without embarrassing himself.

While the happy couple is in the bathroom getting Spike all clean and smell-free in the shower, phone calls go out to everyone who cares. Willow calls Xander, and speaks to Willa, who spreads the happy news with glee.

Dawn opens her laptop, and sends messages to Andrew and Giles. Just that Spike's doing better. The rest will be told in person.

Waiting for Angel to arrive with a doctor versed in the unusual, Willow does some testing of her own. Spike still has his soul, still has his demon, but can't go into gameface. From reading his aura, it appears the demon is fully integrated into Spike's system. He's more like Buffy now – a true hybrid.

Spike's head reels with the information. To not become a burden to his wife and family… to be able to protect them as he always has… this is a blessing. With the added bonus of being able to do it in the sunshine, as well.

The doctor's exam reveals Spike is indeed human. A few drops of blood show no trace of vampirism left in his system. Apparently, the fevers he's suffered from all year purified his system. Painful, but effective.

Angel's sub-vocal growl is heard throughout the examination.

"I didn't ask for this, mate. If it'll make you feel any better, you can dance on my grave when the time comes."

The growling stops. The sobering thought of Spike dying for a final time is enough to stop any petty jealousy over losing the Shanshu. Angel can't suffer the loss of another family member.

"Listen up, Broodypants." Two strides and Spike's directly in front of his erstwhile grandsire. "Vampire or not, we won't stop bein' family. Come too far over the past years to be anything but, yeah?"

The elder vampire doesn't know how to handle this. Vampire or human, Spike is meant to drive him insane. Confusion is evident on his face.

"All I ever wanted is to be loved, Angelus. To have family. Do you think I'm goin' to let you go now? After all the crap is behind us?"

A firm hug and a kiss to Angel's cheek caps the discussion.

February 2015 – Hello, It's Me

FamilyGuy Allo, Poppet.

ShiningStar04: Papa? You changed your screen name! It's true then? What Will said?

FamilyGuy How would… nevermind, sweeting. I forget that our little Will's all-knowing about people. Saved little Sis, after all. It's true – all human and sun loving now.

ShiningStar04 signed off at 07:11:05 PM

ShiningStar04 returned at 7:38:31 PM

FamilyGuy You okay, mite? Want to talk over the phone instead?

ShiningStar04: Do you still love me, Papa?

FamilyGuy How can you ask me that, Willa?

ShiningStar04: I still have demon in me, and you don't. Who is my real Papa… you or the demon?

Spike stares at the AIM box… and wonders how to answer his baby. No, obviously she's i not /i a baby anymore – she's really thinking about her existence. He's not even sure, himself. He was a vampire when she is conceived… man and demon.

FamilyGuy Dunno about the actual biology, sweet girl. Also, don't care. I'll always be your Papa. Feelings don't change.

ShiningStar04: You won't hate me for having demon in me? And Mama? Now that you're both human and I'm not?

FamilyGuy Phhht. You're human, pet. Just with… extras.

ShiningStar04 signed off at 08:09:45 PM

ShiningStar04 returned at 8:12:04 PM

ShiningStar04: Papa, I can't talk now. My chest hurts. sniffles

FamilyGuy Mite… go talk to Molly right now. I'll be right over.

ShiningStar04: NO!!!! Stay home, Papa. Please. Don't come. I'll talk to Auntie Molly. I promise.

ShiningStar04 signed off at 08:15:33 PM

Buffy finds her husband crying at the computer desk, head in his hands. "What's wrong, my love? Something with the children?"

He points to the screen – the AIM conversation still staring at him, accusingly.

"Oh, Spike." Buffy sighs, wrapping her arms around his trembling shoulders. "She just needs some time to understand. And she's growing up, herself."

Spike's stomach clenches. His daughter's eleventh birthday is in three days, and he hasn't seen her in almost two months. She's afraid of him. Even through the bloody computer he could feel her terror and the haste of her retreat.

Working through this isn't going to be easy, Buffy realizes. For all his years of experience as a vampire, Spike's a newly minted human being now, no matter how human he's been.

"We'll find some way to make this right, baby. You know how much Willa loves you."

"Yeah, which me? The demon or the man?" echoing his daughter's question.

Willa tentatively walks into her house, while Uncle Xander sits outside in the car. "Mama? Papa? Is anyone home?"

Mama flies down the stairs, wrapping her arms around her daughter in a joyful embrace. "What a

surprise, sweetie. How did you get here? Uncle Xander?"

She nods slowly, "I n-need to see Papa. We were talking on the IM yesterday and I shut it down on him. I know I hurt his feelings."

"He's upstairs in the office. Papa isn't sure you'd want to see him so he's waiting for you to decide."

Swallowing hard, Willa makes her way upstairs.

Papa stays seated and Willa doesn't go to him. Both are too nervous for the hugs and kisses each crave. When he can't stand the silence any longer, Papa speaks first. "It's good to see you, sweeting. Mama and I've missed you so…"

Willa's eyes tear up and her breath hitches in her chest. She's sure the bruised look around her Papa's eyes is her fault.

His baby is fighting herself, trying to act all grown up when all she wants is to be Papa's beloved little girl again. So Spike takes a chance – slowly walking over to his daughter.

"Why did you come here, Willa?" asks Papa.

The young girl sniffles; the wall holding back her emotions crumbling fast. "I-I don't w-want things to be different, Papa. I want to still love you… you are still you, right?"

"I feel warmer, an' sometimes my heart beats so loud I swear it blocks out the telly. And I do have to go to the bloody loo like everyone else now." Papa hugs his not so little girl tightly, relief flooding through him when she hugs back. "As for how I feel about my family? Nothing different. I'll always love you."

"Will says you're scared, too. That you think it's going to be hard to be around everyone when you're so changed."

She reaches out, running her hand through newly bleached hair that's grown back enough to curl around her fingers. "You look like Papa, again," she whispers, relief evident. "You've been gone for so long."

"My sweet girl," he murmurs tenderly, "I didn't mean to frighten you or the little mites so. An' I'm feelin' better every day. You'll all come home, soon. When you're ready."

"Can we have dinner at home for my birthday? Together?" Willa asks. "With cake?"

February 13th finds the Bennetts gathered together for the first time in months. Willa's requested meal of baked ziti is sitting center-stage on the dining table, with a huge platter of garlic bread on the side.

The dinner is pleasant enough… everyone's forks going from plate to mouth with relish, but something isn't right. Until… the first piece of ziti lands on Willa's cheek with a plop.

A small cry of outrage escapes her lips as she looks around for the perpetrator of the crime. Nobody acknowledges the drippy red sauce running down her neck and into her new sweater.

A slight shaking of the shoulders gives away Tyler and several pieces of ziti leave Willa's fork, heading in his direction. Unfortunately, Tara gets caught in the crossfire. Tara lets loose her own dinner barrage, catching Papa in the chest, and the children freeze – unsure of his reactions to the horseplay.

Quick as a wink, Papa grabs his wife and hugs her tightly, squashing the ziti between their bodies, making a complete and total mess.

Oh yeah! Same old Papa. Just like that the tension breaks and more food flies around the room. Even the cats get into the act.

Mama fetches the birthday cake once the dining room is clean and everyone has washed and changed. It's a beautiful creation… the top looks like a garden with sugar flowers, butterflies, and grass.

Willa cuts the first slice, and hands it over to Papa, herself. "I want to come home, Papa. That's what I want for my present this year."

A look passes between Mama and Papa, and they silently come to the same conclusion. It's time for their family to be reunited. As soon as it's school break, the Bennett children will come home.

"Birthday wish granted," says Papa.

March 2015 – The Waltons

It's a big day for everyone; Tara, Tyler and Willa move back home. The sun shines brightly and Buffy sets out a blanket in the backyard for a picnic lunch. Spike lounges shirtless on their brand new hammock, relishing the warmth of the sun that's been so long denied.

"Mama! Papa! We're home!!" The kids barrel into the yard, followed by the Harrises. Molly carries a basket full of fried chicken to add to Buffy's festive spread.

Spike joins the little group on the blanket, grinning broadly from ear to ear. Sun, friends, family… he couldn't ask for anything more.

"You do know how much you're freaking me out, Spike?" Xander exclaimed, clapping his friend on the back. "Seeing your pasty bod in the sun is doing things to me."

The eloquence of raised eyebrows all around has him replaying his words.

"Oh for… I mean it's giving me the wiggins, and you know it. I've known you for eighteen years, and this is the first time I've seen you in sunlight."

Spike preens. "Wanna tell me if I freckle, Harris?"

The sniggering increases the blush blooming on Xander's cheeks as he hands a gift wrapped package to the ex-vampire.

Spike shreds the paper – as eager to get to the contents as any child to get to the prezzie inside. Pulling the tissue paper open, he sees a black t-shirt. All well and good – black is still his favorite color most of the time.

"Open it, you moron. It's not like a plain black shirt is anything special," Xander coaxes.

Emblazoned across the front of the shirt in red and yellow lettering are the words: "The Phoenix," right across the chest.

Spike looks at his friend's expectant face and chuckles, eventually turning into a deep belly laugh.

"What's so funny?"

Buffy's eyes sparkle as she watches the interaction between the men. There are some days she delves far back into her memories and remembers their seething hatred. This is so much better.

She's died twice, but Spike has her beat. His original death, a re-souling in Africa, his dusting in the Hellmouth, back as a ghost and then undead again, and now a re-birth back to humanity. Even she got the shirt humor.

Spike's laughter draws the children; each looking at the happy man before them. Tyler starts the dogpile. When Spike emerges, kidlets flying everywhere…his happiness matches his wife's.

Happy hugs end the day as Xander, Molly, Treena, and Will go home, leaving the Bennett family intact. As if no time has passed, their nighttime rituals go smoothly… bathing, teeth, stories and kisses before the lights go out.

Mama and Papa aren't sure what to expect from the troops, but hope for a peaceful night. A half hour later, Tara's voice rings out: "Night, Papa." "Night, pet." "Night, Mama." "Night, sweetie."

Five minutes later, the words are seconded by Tyler, and in another fifteen… by Willa.

Life is good on Walton Mountain for Willa, Tyler, Tara and their parents.

April 2015 – You've Just Turned Human… What Are You Going to Do Now?

The kids are in school, Buffy and Molly have a planning session for a possible new book, and Spike and Xander decide to take advantage of a glorious Spring day and have themselves some boy time.

And yes, that's boy time. A few hours in the Xandermobile lands them at the gates of the happiest place on earth: Disneyland. Spike is entranced by the sights and sounds of the park during the day. It's like a first visit for him, and he and Xander are determined to see as much of the park as they possibly can in one day.

They head for their first ride: Teacups! Spike's not sure what he's capable of in the strength department anymore – he's still recovering from his resurrection – but he's fast. Faster than Xander, anyway.

Fairly strong, too – if their opposing grips on the turning mechanism are any indication. Not as strong as two vampires against one human… but if Xander's eyes rolling back in his head are any indication… stronger than Xander, too.

When the ride is over, Spike endures several choruses of "Wuss" from his companion He needs to regain his equilibrium by sitting on one of the nearby park benches.

Both men conclude that Disney is a sadistic demon for having developed the ride as they wobble away from the ride. Preferably towards something slow. And not spinning.

Spike's newly human constitution has a lot to learn about the physics of an amusement park, and to borrow a phrase from his wife: 'Spike and spinning rides are not mixy.' When his complexion is closer to peach than pea, the men head over to a costume photo booth.

They turn to each other, each raising an eyebrow in a silent dare. A half hour later, they have presents for their families.

It's an utterly glorious day. No wives, no children… just another guy to be rude and crude with. They go on anything that doesn't spin – even that blasted "It's a Small World" ride. They make it bearable by keeping up a running commentary on places Spike has visited, and Xander keeps waiting for the little dolls to pick up their skirts. It's good to be manly men.

The rest of the day is spent just enjoying the sunshine. Spike buys sunglasses to protect his still sensitive eyes, and the woman in the shop tells them they make a lovely couple.

By the time they leave, the sun has long since set. Xander drives home while Spike drifts in and out of a light sleep. All that fun and sun has left him as sleepy as the twins after a day in the park.

A gentle nudge does absolutely nothing to awaken Sleeping Beauty, so Xander resorts to a more manly measure: the time honored wet willie. Sure enough, Spike awakens with a splutter, frantically digging in his ear to remove the moisture.

He gathers his packages together and stumbles out of the car, no words necessary as the friends part.

"What did you bring me?" "Ooooh! Anything for me?" "Gimme, gimme, gimme!" Never let it be said that the Bennett's angels wouldn't have made Anya proud with their enthusiastic greeting.

"Let Papa inside, and maybe he'll show you," laughed Mama.

Assorted t-shirts are pulled out and admired; a Tinkerbelle necklace for Tara; a set of Mickey Mouse pens for Tyler; a Belle figurine for Willa, who looks at her Papa with adoration for understanding her so deeply.

Spike tells his wife she'll get her prezzie later. She laughs when she sees the foil packets with Mickey printed on the front.

May 2015 – A Young Man's Fancy

Graduation day for the kindergarten class and all the youngsters are dressed in their best. No gowns, but mortarboards are handed out to everyone. Traditional blue with a white tassel. Miss Soutar has them line up for a class picture.

While waiting to be called for their 'diplomas', Will turns to the girl on his left; Gracie Peterson. She's a cute little thing with curly brown ringlets, and Will falls hard for her little smiles.

He doesn't notice Tara beginning to stew over all the attention no longer turned in her direction. He doesn't seem to notice Tara at all.

When the ceremony is finished and the kids rejoin their families for an outdoor buffet, Tara clings to her Mama. Will invites her to join him and a few others in a game of ball, but she takes one look at Gracie waiting with the others, and refuses to talk to him.

Shrugging off Tara's attitude, Will heads back to his friends for a spirited game of catch.

Mama notices the exchange between the children, but says nothing – hoping things will straighten out all on their own.

Tyler tries to snap his sister out of her funk but is unsuccessful.

The car ride home is too quiet, and Tara runs to her room without speaking another word when they get home. She slams the connecting wall shut for privacy and cries her little heart out to Harry. Once the tears have stopped, she rips into the little stuffed hedgehog, remembering all the years Will had it, because she'd given it to him when his arm is broken.

Mama knocks on the door before entering, and gets hit in the head with one of Harry's little paws. She sits down on the bed and listens to her daughter's tale of woe.

Oh, my sweet little girl! It starts so early these days. Things were much simpler when boys had the cooties. "What's the matter, sweetie?" she asks, picking up the little felt paw from the ground.

Tara sniffles. "Will's a poopy-head! He doesn't like me anymore," she cries. "I saw him playing with Gracie Peterson all day, and he forgot all about me."

"I'm sure that's no true, Tara. Will can have other friends… other girls as friends. You're only six years old."

"Then why does it hurt so much, Mama? Will is my friend."

Mama sighs, and hugs her tightly.

June 2015 - Woman

"Mama, I don't feel well," Willa announces when she walks into the kitchen. "My stomach aches, and I'm so very tired."

Pressing her lips to her daughter's head, Mama doesn't note a fever. She pulls back, looking at Willa's general appearance.

She's grown at least four inches in the past month or so, and developed a bit of pudginess around… Aha! Buffy's so thrilled they've already had the birds and bees discussion. It makes this so much easier.

"You know your body's been changing," Mama says, "Maybe you're getting your period. Let's go look at that kit you sent for."

My First Period. Pink letters painted on a white plastic case. Buffy is grateful that Children's Digest recognizes the varying age of the onset of menstruation and carries the ad in a magazine for pre-teens.

There are several different sanitary pads of varying thicknesses, a couple of slim sized tampons, a box of Midol, and several pamphlets: The Onset Of Puberty, Becoming A Woman, and Your Period And You.

Mama explains the cramps will ease once her period begins to flow, and about the discomfort of the pads, but stops short when she sees Willa's face pale regarding the tampons.

Several weeks later, Willa and Mama find themselves in the backyard, silently weeding the flowerbeds that border the house. Something is definitely up, since gardening in any form is the most hated chore in Willa's repertoire.

"Mama, I got my period two days ago," Willa says softly, unable to look her mother in the eyes.

Buffy simply smiles. Her baby is growing up so quickly. "Do you feel all right, sweetie?" is all she can ask.

Willa nods. "We need to go shopping for…"

Gardening gloves and tools are forgotten, as mother and daughter take a trip to the drugstore.

What Dreams May Bring – Chapter 12B – Circle of Life

July 2015 – It's A Family Affair

Slaybelle: Squee! I can't believe the boys are coming for a visit. How'd you manage to talk Andrew into making the trip by himself with four two year olds?

1000Eyes: snickers Buffy, we've been married for two years. I have ways of making my husband do anything I want. Besides, you do remember Andrew's co-Watcher-in-training is flying with him.

Slaybelle Oh yeah… Martin… Melvin…

1000Eyes: Marcus, you senile bint!

Slaybelle That's it! You have to move back… you sound too much like Spike.

1000Eyes: You do say the sweetest things, Sis. Miss you. J

Slaybelle Wish you were coming home…

1000Eyes: pouts Me, too. That's why Andy's bringing the boys… I don't even have time to see them right now. Stupid prophesies are taking up all our time.

Slaybelle Did I ever mention how much…

1000Eyes: Yeah, yeah… how much you HATE prophesies? Heard it all before.

Slaybelle rolls eyes Anyway… Spike's at the airport now, waiting for the flight to land.

1000Eyes: Bet you still can't get over him going out in the sunlight without a blanket.

Slaybelle Heh… it's wonderful, Dawnie. Best of all are the times he's out with the kids. Zoo trips are a real blast.

1000Eyes: Oh! Got the piccie of Spike and Xan at Disneyland. Gods, they make a pretty pair of cowboys.

Slaybelle snickers The girl who sold Spike the sunglasses told 'em they made a lovely couple. They're still laughing about it. Sometimes I wonder about those two…

1000Eyes: La la la… not listening. Nope! Not my virgin ears.

"We're home, pet! Come greet the nephews," Spike calls from downstairs.

SlaybelleThey're here! Gotta go now. Love you!!! And btw, your ears are about as virgin as your…

1000Eyes: Bye, Buff! I'll talk to the guys later. Kiss my boys for me.

Andrew is kneeling, surrounded by four identical little tots all wearing London Fog rain slickers. They turn en masse at his signal and chorus: "Allo, Aun' Buffy."

Enchanted, Buffy helps to unbutton the boys' coats, running her fingers through each head of light brown wavy hair. They're a lovely mixture of their parents – Andrew's textures and Dawn's coloring. Their slate grey eyes are unusual, but gorgeous, all the same.

"Hello, munchkins." Sitting on the ground, she opens her arms to a frenzy of little boy hugs. Thank goodness for video cams and high speed internet connections for keeping in touch.

Spike leads the children off to the playroom, so Buffy can talk with Andrew and what's-his-name? Marcus! There's something about the man that sets Spike's nerves on edge. He can't read people like he used to – can't smell the pheromones, or hear the racing of a heartbeat, but he still has his intuition, and this Marcus fellow is setting off all his alarms.

"Unca Spike! Unca Spike!" The tots clamor for his attention, and Spike pushes the unease to the back of his mind. He takes out some long put away age appropriate toys, which leave the boys totally disinterested.

"Baby toys," says Jonathan of the blocks on the floor. "Boring," says Jessie, facing the baby puzzles. Jeremy and Jason pore through the toy box, looking for something more to their liking. All four boys chorus: "'Puters!" and start pulling on Spike to pull him out of the playroom.

Andrew hands over the American versions of computer programs the boys enjoy at home. "Sorry, mi amigo, but the lads tend to be a little picky in their choice of amusements. Can we hijack a computer for awhile?"

Spike volunteers his. Anything vital is duplicated on Buffy's computer and backup discs.

He heads downstairs, using Willa's computer while Andrew is occupied.

FamilyGuy 'Lo, Niblet. The mites are smart little buggers, aren't they? Obviously take after their Mum.

1000Eyes: I'm so proud, Spike. Jason has my love of languages. He reads better than the rest if you've had a chance to hear him, and he speaks some French and Spanish.

FamilyGuy I'm wonderin' what you think of that Marcus bloke? He a good sort?

1000Eyes: Andrew trusts him. I find him a bit opportunistic… but he's a hard worker. Does the Council proud.

FamilyGuy Not sure why, but I don't trust him.

1000Eyes: I'll check into his background here, but I'm sure my Andy won't let anyone near the boys if he can't be trusted.

FamilyGuy You do that, Dawn. I'm keepin' my eye on him, just in case. Talk to you later, luv.

The children are all asleep and Buffy waits for him upstairs, but the light and conversation in the kitchen draw a curious Spike.

"C'mon, mate. I'm sure they'll be more than willing to watch the sprogs. Let's go out and have some fun. No ball and chain to hold you back… we can have a grand old time."

Andrew looks about four shades of uncomfortable. "No can do, Marcus, old pal. Being a parent's a full time responsibility. We're in a strange house, in a strange country. I'm sticking close by to the little ones."

"What are you? Afraid your in-laws are goin' to rat you out to the wife? Gods, mate! That woman has you on a leash, even across the Pond." Marcus snorts, shaking his head. "You need to hang out with more humans. Slayers and vampires and God knows what else are warping you, Drew."

"Slayers and Vampyres have treated me better than most humans."

Spike's heard enough. "Andrew, one of my nephews is havin' a hard time settlin' down. Be a good man an' tend to the lad." He claps Marcus on the shoulder hard enough to make the man wince. "I'll keep your mate entertained until you get back."

Once Andrew is out of range, Spike snarls: "What the bloody hell are you tryin' to do? Drive a wedge between a man and his family?" He cocks his head, hitting on a possible angle. "You bastard! You want the boy for yourself."

"And if I do? What're you goin' to do about it?"

In just three steps Marcus finds himself up close and personal with one pissed off ex-vampire. "So, Watcher-boy… got a problem hangin' with a mixed lot? Aimin' to spread your poison an' bust up my family?"

Marcus laughs, blustering his way through. "Yeah, I've got a problem. And you… do you know that William the Bloody is a bloody joke all throughout the Council? Man, vampire, and humanish… fuckin' Slayers instead of killin' 'em. Half-breed Hellspawn…"

Before Spike can reach back and deck the man, he hears: "Papa? What's going on in the kitchen? I can hear you from upstairs."

"One word," Spike warns. "One word that hurts my little girl and there won't be enough left of you to mail back to England."

Marcus shoves back at Spike's shoulders and whispers: "One word in the right ear and you and your little family will find themselves on dissection tables. Freaks."

"Sorry you can't stay longer, mate," Spike replies airily as Willa enters the room. "Good thing you haven't unpacked yet. We'll make sure Andrew and the tots get home safely." He turns to his daughter. "What's up, Poppet? Not feeling well?"

"Just thirsty, Papa. Oh, and Mama wants you."

Spike calls a cab for the airport – leaving nothing to chance before he heads upstairs. "Go right to bed, sweet girl. I'll be in to see you after I see what Mama wants."

As soon as her papa leaves the kitchen, Willa rounds on Marcus, gameface to the fore. "Just because Papa didn't hurt you, doesn't mean I won't," she spits. "Nobody threatens my family. They'll know all about you. Grandpa Giles and Auntie Dawn will have your guts for garters."

"You need to mind your manners, child."

Willa roars, taking pleasure in watching Marcus race out of the house.

Andrew apologizes profusely; sick at heart for misjudging Marcus. Dawn and Giles are warned, and the man is summarily dismissed. There is no place for hatred and bigotry – not with the Council changing to accommodate the friendlier demon species desiring to work with them.

They manage to book a new flight home with Becky onboard. Her familiarity with the quads is a big help to Andrew.

The Bennetts sit down and agree that bringing anyone new into the family must be done with the utmost caution. It hurts to pop the bubble for the youngsters, but not everyone means well.

August 2015 – To Catch A Bookworm

Back to school shopping is completed, and as a reward, the Bennetts and the Harrises split up for a girls' and boys' weekend. Not that the girls weren't asked, mind you, but they prefer a little pampering to roughing it.

Xander and Spike take their sons on a fishing/camping trip; complete with tent and sleeping bags. Will bounces around, helping his father set up the tent, while Tyler is less than enthusiastic about the whole thing.

They all enjoy wading in the river; the air is hot and water refreshing, but Spike watches his son close himself off during dinner.

Instead of hanging around the campfire and toasting marshmallows, Tyler crawls into the tent, and burrows into his sleeping bag.

Spike stands to go after him and Xander grabs at the back of his shirt. "If I were you, I'd give the boy some time alone. You probably haven't seen him do this at home because he's been happy to have you back… but when Tyler stayed with us, he'd withdraw when he was upset."

"Why would he be upset? He seemed fine, earlier."

"Trust me on this. He obviously needs to talk… just give him about an hour's grace."

Some time later, Spike crawls into the tent and finds Tyler reading. Bookmarking his place, the boy hands the book to his father, hoping he won't be upset.

"Ancient Sumerian for Beginners?" Spike was incredulous. "Ty… what's going on?"

"Don't be mad, Papa. Auntie Dawn sent it to me. I can read a lot of it," he says, brightly. "We send IMs in Sumerian. It's fun."

"I'm not mad, luv. But this is supposed to be a break before books an' learning. All kinds of guy stuff with Will and Uncle Xander. We have fishing planned for tomorrow mornin', early."

Looking at his son's face, Spike realizes he's about to cry. "If you don't tell me what's wrong, Ty, I can't help you."

Tyler scrunches closer to Papa and lets the tears fly. "I want to go home, Papa. I love you and Uncle Xander and Will, but I wanna be home with the computer and my books. It's more fun. To me."

How can he fault the child? As a youngster, he, himself was an avid book reader. True there were no computers or tellies, but William would choose a good book over football any day of the year.

The best Spike can offer is a compromise. "Look, Ty… we're far away from home, and the women have taken over our house. What say you stay tomorrow; come out fishing… but bring your book or anything else you'd like to do while we fish?" Softly, wistfully, he says: "It's good to be outdoors."

Tyler knows how precious the sun is to his Papa after being a vampire all those years, so he agrees to stay.

Looking into his boy's relieved face, Spike makes up his mind to call Angel. They can work something out something for Tyler's special interests.

The girls decide to spend the entire weekend in jammies or sweats. Comfort is the word; in clothing or food. Buffy makes her famous five cheese macaroni casserole, and they order pizza and Chinese food as the mood strikes.

Willa and Treena drift off into their own little corner from time to time, occasionally taking Tara with them. Both mothers have explained the need to include the younger girl in some of their activities, and neither young lady has a problem with doing so.

Point of fact, only Tara has a problem with talk of boys, clothes, and now periods.

"Mama, I'm bored," she whines, looking backwards as Buffy brushes her shoulder length curls.

Buffy throws Molly a beleaguered look. Out of all her children, she just knows Tara is going to be the ball buster. "Tara, we had this discussion. You could have gone camping with Papa and Tyler but you wanted to stay with the girls."

The girl pouts. "I wanted to go camping, but that poopy-head Will was gonna be there. I-I'm so mad at him."

"Tara Rose Alexis Bennett!!"

"It's okay, Buffy. Will can be a poopy-head at times," Molly says. "He'll learn, eventually… or suffer."

Tara stomps off in a fit of pique. Treena and Willa are preening in front of a mirror yet again, and she's tired of playing games with Mama and Molly.

She slams her door shut and heads for her closet, tearing her clothes off the hanger and throwing them into piles on the floor. Little girl clothes for a little girl body. No wonder Will… no wonder nobody ever notices her.

Staring at her reflection in the mirror, Tara runs her fingers through her little girl hair, all long and curly, and reaches for the scissors in her desk drawer.

Mama decides her little miss has sulked enough, and goes upstairs to try and soothe her feelings. Such an awkward age – how did any of them survive childhood?

She knocks on the door before walking in, and is shocked at the sight that greets her. Tara's beautiful hair lies in clumps on the floor. Buffy can't move; can't speak; can't even punish her daughter. She fully understands the distress that must have driven her daughter to this act of desperation. Been there, done that, wore the t-shirt.

"Oh Tara," she finally manages. "What am I going to do with you?"

Mama picks up the scissors and evens out the length as best she can. Not much can be saved… hair that once reached to the middle of Tara's back will barely reach the bottom of her earlobes once the hairdresser gets a hold of her tomorrow.

"I'm sorry Mama," Tara cries. "I can't fix it!"

"We'll get your hair fixed tomorrow, sweetie. It'll grow back."

"Not my hair. Me! I can't fix me! I hate boys 'cause they're mean and I don't wanna play with toys and dolls. I just want Will to like me again. "What's wrong with me?"

September 2015 – For the Love of a Child

Willow's excited babbling is enough the make the receiver vibrate in Buffy's hand. It seems that the Rosenbergs are about to hear the pitter patter of little feet. They've been working with a private adoption agency for the past year, and it seems that a single mother has agreed to give up her newborn upon delivery.

The nursery is being decorated on weekends, and they're stocking up on baby essentials. The baby's expected to arrive in the middle of October, and Willow promises they'll bring the child for 'inspection' as soon as it's feasible to fly.

They can hardly wait.

Two weeks later, Becky calls, and the mood of this call is diametrically opposed to that of her spouse's. It's bad news on the baby front; for them, anyway. The mother went into premature labor. After staying in the hospital for a week watching over the baby, she decided to keep her son.

The couple is devastated, but Social Services promises they'll remain at the top of the list if and when another opportunity arises.

Buffy looks sadly at the small layette she and Spike had purchased, and places it into the cedar chest at the foot of their bed.

October 2015 – The Apple Doesn't Fall Far From the Tree

The day is bright with just a hint of autumn in the air. Buffy sits quietly on the porch swing, watching her husband gather the fallen leaves and mown grass with an old fashioned hand rake. Without an unchanging vampire constitution, Spike has to consciously work at maintaining his 'girlish figure' and tight muscle tone.

Buffy just appreciates the view of his ass as he bends and reaches. Who needs multi-colored leaves when you've got a view like that?

Yard-work done, Spike stands with rake in hand, looking satisfied. Something clicks, and Buffy is off the swing like a shot.

She barrels past Spike and jumps directly into the large neat pile of leaves at his feet, spreading them far and wide.

"Oi, bitch!" he yells, pissed off that all his hard work has been for naught. "I've better things to do than re-rake the bloody yard…"

Looking down at the scattered leaves, his breath catches at the sight of his wife, face flushed with desire and hair fanned out like a halo around her head. She raises her arms to him and his anger dissipates. Spike drops to his knees, and then covers his wife's body with his own.

His hands reach under her bulky sweater to fondle his wiggling woman. At thirty five, her figure is lush and round with a delightful little droop to her breasts as they fill his hands. The epitome of womanhood, all ripe… William, you git! Get on with it… remember, you both age now.

Buffy's hands aren't idle, either. She manages to undo the buttons of Spike's fly, releasing his hard length into her fingers. Gasping at the coolness of her hand, he quickly grasps the waistband of her sweats, yanking them down and out of his way.

Slight maneuvering, then… bliss.

Sheathed within the soft, slick heat of his wife's body, Spike holds still for a moment – reveling in the feeling of coming home. He moves with long, slow strokes that slowly draw Buffy's body up to meet his own.

Her eyes glisten with warmth and passion and her breath comes in small pants, soon to be swallowed by her lover's kisses.

Uh oh!

Bloody hell!

They both realize at the same time that spontaneous sex with human participants can result in an expanded family. In for a penny… in for a pound – they continue their lovemaking to its obvious conclusion.

They lie on their backs in the leaves… replete; the heat of the mid-afternoon sun making them drowsy. Buffy has enough presence of mind to make sure they redress, just in case the youngsters make their way to the backyard.

"I think we have to be more careful, luv," Spike says softly. "Bein' human again means payin' attention to family planning. Not that I'd mind, but I think we should talk about it before we get another 'surprise'."

Buffy smiles. "Yeah… cause even as a vamp, you managed to do the deed. I think we're done, though. Our family's complete."

The Bennetts throw open their doors for a haunted house party. They've gone all out for the decorations, from spider webbing on the shrubbery and doors to headstones in the yard.

The house is full of costumed guests both old and young. Even Tyler seems to have gotten into the spirit of the night, dressing up as the Tin Man. Mama is Dorothy Gale, Papa is the Scarecrow, Willa is the Cowardly Lion, and Tara is Glinda, the Good Witch.

Buffy senses something's wrong and scans the room for her husband and children. Willa's at the door, talking to… Dracula.

It only takes a moment for Buffy to realize it's the real Dracula… the one she thought she dusted in Sunnydale. And Willa's gone outside with him. "Spike! Stake! Door!" she cries, pushing her way through the crowd.

Spike is less than a second behind her, and with a glance from the vampire, restrains his wife from leaping to her defense. The sight of Willa swaying under Drac's thrall makes him nauseous – caution slows his steps.

They're all surprised when Willa pulls out a stake and thrusts it into Dracula's heart, dusting him instantly, to the applause of several guests.

The dust begins to reform and Willa growls, watching it dissipate once more. She's so glad Mama told her about that little trick and her own encounter with the well-known vampire, and that she's taken to carrying stakes with her wherever she goes.

She can't shake off the odd feelings anymore; the tummy tingles every once in a while and the urgent sense of danger… Willa supposes this is as good a time as any to talk to her parents. It's not normal, that's for sure.

Mama and Papa linger outside and talk as the party goes on without them.

With the party in full swing, Lorne arrives, decked out in one of his normally flamboyant outfits. The children gather 'round, hopeful for a scary story. Willa hangs over his right shoulder, while Tara and Will each claim a knee. They look at each other warily, but don't say a word.

Lorne is happy to oblige the kiddies and reads The Legend of Sleepy Hollow to all those willing to listen.

He offers a few words to Tara before she wriggles off his lap. Tells her it's time to mend her fences, and that not all attention is good attention.

Willa stays for a little, talking about the twins… she's worried about their behavior as of late. Lorne commiserates – telling her he had a hard time with siblings when he was growing up, but they turned out all right, for Pyleans, anyway.

A hug and a kiss and she's off, looking for her friends. Lorne decides it's time to talk to Mama and Papa. He finds them in the kitchen, taking a momentary breather.

"Hello, Bon Bons. Have a seat 'cause I think you're gonna want to know this."

Parents know when it's about their children, and sit down, quickly.

In short order, Lorne advises the nervous twosome that Willa should be checked out as a potential Slayer. "There's strength in that girl," he says, "and it'll need to be watched."

Lorne frowns before continuing, trying to find the best way to phrase what he has to say. "The twins are going to keep you hopping. Tara's walking down a rocky path… and she'll be asking for help. Only it won't be in her words so you have to listen carefully."

Buffy snorts in frustration. "Can you be any more cryptic?"

"Sure can, sweetikins. Tyler needs to find his center."

November 2015 – Childish Behavior

The dividing wall in the twins' room is never open. At six years old, they've become very private people.

Tara finds herself torn. Sometimes she wants to be more grown up. She wants to care about clothes and music and boys. Other times she just wants to be Papa's little girl… but both spots seem to be occupied by Willa.

It's always Willa at the center of everything. Willa has a boyfriend, Willa has her period, Willa has boobs. Willa is a potential Slayer. She sucks up so much attention, that there's none left for her.

Or so it seems.

Her most prized possession is one of her newest gifts from Auntie Willow – a fica… no, focusing crystal. It's made of pretty purple quartz with a small fissure deep inside. Tara has been practicing her media… meditation as she's been taught – every day – and manages to find her 'quiet place' in less than ten minutes.

The crystal warms to her touch. If she listens very carefully, Tara hears a soft bell tone. She concentrates with everything she has, and if she's lucky, can block out thoughts of Have-It-All Willa, Hibernating Tyler, and parents who think she's just a little girl.

Tyler isn't having an easy time of things in school. Whereas he was an easygoing and well liked child in kindergarten, first grade is another story altogether. There's a large emphasis on the physical… team sports and gymnastics – not Tyler's forte.

Ms. Franck sends letters home, complaining of Tyler's combative attitude. He refuses to take an active part in his phys-ed class, and when forced to participate, he stands around, stiff and uncooperative.

Mama and Papa try to talk about the need to participate in school activities, But Tyler is resistant. He says he would much rather read than play.

Papa meets with Ms. Franck when his son refuses to go to school for the third day in a row. He expects to hate the teacher on sight for refusing to work closer with Tyler, and help him through whatever it is that's bothering him in class.

Ms. Franck and the Principal, Ms. Beene, sit calmly and discuss what they see as problematic. Tyler's withdrawn, has very few friends, and likes to bury himself in his books. He may be too bright for the class, and will be tested for advanced placement. They're concerned about his lack of social skills.

They agree to remove Tyler from phys-ed, if his parents are willing to have him checked out by his pediatrician, which, of course, Spike agrees to.

Tyler tests well enough to sit in with the sixth grade English class, and participate for actual school credit. At first he's isolated because of his age, but after a few weeks, Tyler becomes the darling of the class, and is well protected in the schoolyard by his new friends.

Everyone from Ms. Franck to Tyler is relieved, and the boy's attitude improves tremendously. He's happy to go and participate in class once more.

With the spark of learning so strong in the boy, both Mama and Papa agree that he needs more stimulating material than what's being offered in school. Between Auntie Dawn, the demon linguist, and Uncle Wesley and his demon lore, newly pressed into service, Tyler has more than enough new material to keep him happy.

The boy reads voraciously, and apparently has a photographic memory. The amount of information he retains is staggering, and both Dawn and Wes show an interest in fostering his demon education when school is out.

It seems to be a win-win situation for them all.

December 2015 – Silent Night

The house is decorated for the holiday; a beautiful tree in the livingroom, completely decorated with popcorn garlands and handmade ornaments. Everything simple and old fashioned. Including presents.

A new pair of shoes or earrings is lovely, but Buffy's got the whole package: a house with a picket fence, a husband, three children, three cats and her health. There isn't another thing she would ask for. Her life is so Norman Rockwell, she giggles.

"What's so funny, luv?"

"All I had to do to get this normal life was give up on the idea of ever having a normal life."

No company for the Bennetts this year. No gala dress up affair, and no visiting family. Everyone is involved with their own little families this year, and that's just fine.

Willa's hopping up and down. Bobby and his parents will be visiting their relatives in Santa Barbara, and have invited Willa out for Christmas Eve dinner, with her parents' permission.

"Mama! Dinner in a fancy restaurant. Please… can I get a new dress? Something special?"

What mother can resist a clothes shopping junket with her daughter? To the mall they go, fighting the holiday crowds tooth and nail, emerging victorious.

Willa appears at the top of the stairs wearing a simple green velvet dress; princess seams and puffy sleeves, showing off her budding figure. Bobby's breath catches in his throat. It's only been a little over a year and a half since he moved away, less since they've seen each other… but in his eyes she's grown up.

Mama and Papa watch the boy drool as he stares at their eldest daughter. Buffy wraps her arm around her husband's waist, silently reminding him that he'd looked at her like that once upon a time.

Spike tells her she's not helping.

"It's just dinner, Spike. And it's with Bobby's parents." Buffy hugs him tightly. "You're gonna give yourself a heart attack if you keep this up."

Spike misses his demon's growl at times like this. The human equivalent doesn't cut it, and he has to settle for glowering crossly.

Willa rolls her eyes at Papa's antics, and Bobby smiles into his hand. All this fuss over a silly dinner with a friend and his parents. Sheesh, you would think they were dating or something lame like that.

Just before she leaves, Willa runs back in and kisses Papa on the cheek.

Spike and Buffy relax in front of their fireplace. The children are all tucked into their beds for the night. The Murcers will be over later tomorrow morning to share Christmas brunch and open presents long stashed under the tree.

They haven't spoken a single word to each other for the past few hours. Both are thinking of the same thing, however – this time, last year – when they'd almost lost each other. Then Spike's newfound humanity. Another unbelievable event in the long line of impossible events that make up their lives together.

Eyes close and sleep claims the happy couple.

What Dreams May Bring – Chapter 13 – Still Waters Run Deep

January 2016 – Aloha Oy Vey

To celebrate the one year anniversary of Spike’s second turning and their tenth wedding anniversary, the Bennetts head off to Hawaii for two weeks of fun in the sun with the Rosenbergs.

Xander and Molly are perfectly willing to care for the children, but Tara kicks up such a ruckus about spending time with Will that Grandpa Angel and Auntie Nina agree to come in from Los Angeles.

“You know we shouldn’t give in to emotional blackmail,” Buffy murmurs to her husband on the way to the airport.

“We’ll sit the mite down when we get home, luv,” he replies.

Blue skies, blue water and white sand…Spike stretches out on his towel and basks, shamelessly stretching his body like a pale panther sunbathing. Becoming human hasn’t dulled his enjoyment of warmth on his skin.

Though Buffy diligently slathers his body with an SPF 50 sunblock, by day 2 Spike’s skin is the shade of a boiled lobster. Front or back, lying on the bed makes him miserable, but his wife’s hands and aloe vera gel make him believe there’s a God in heaven, after all.

Two days later he’s back on the beach… wearing a sun hat and white t-shirt.

The following week, Willow gets the phone call she and Becky have been waiting for; Social Services has a child available for adoption. A six month old of mixed Hawaiian heritage, the little girl has straight black hair, light brown skin and bright green almond shaped eyes.

Her mother was young, the father unknown and her family ready to disown her for bearing a child of impure blood. She left the baby with Social Services, wanting a better life for her.

The extensive home study done last year allows the baby to go home with her new parents right away.

Kiana Ivy Rosenberg is welcomed into the fold, and the decision is made for the new family to move back to California once the six month probationary period is up.

Spike and Buffy have the pleasure of enjoying a week with their new niece before leaving for Santa Barbara. Buffy frames the sight of Spike cuddling Kiana to his chest on the chaise in her viewfinder and for just a moment, fantasizes about having another baby… then remembers the three already needing her full attention.

Besides, an Auntie can always visit when Buffy needs a dose of baby snuggles, right?

Angel welcomes the travelers home with tales of their children. Willa was a breeze, spending much of her time with Treena. Tyler’s hooked up with Wesley, who’s offered to instruct the boy via the internet about demons and ancient artifacts via the internet.

The only real trouble came from Tara, who somehow managed to conjure up several small explosions in her room during a time out in a fit of pique. Nothing but smoke and stink, according to both Angel and Nina.

Still, Buffy will make a thorough sweep of all crystals, candles and magic books in her daughter’s possession.

February 2016 – Little Women

For two weeks all Willa talks about is her party: the color scheme, the guest list, menus, ad nauseum until the day finally arrives. The playroom is festooned with purple and silver balloons – silver glitter star sprinkles on every surface.

The morning of the party finds Tara standing in the doorway, all the balloons popped and laying about her like puddles. Mama tries to be understanding of her daughter’s jealousy, but won’t allow her to get away with malicious behavior and banishes Tara to her room over her protests that she didn’t do anything.

Papa shakes his head in disappointment.

A last minute dash to The Party Bazaar and the balloons are replaced, but there’s been a mini disaster with the cake. It looks like someone’s little fingers have gone skating through the frosting, and this time Tyler is confined to his room, again against protests of innocence.

Buffy is ready to tear her hair out. “I swear I’m gonna lock the cats up in the basement as a preventative measure,” she grits in frustration. “I thought we were through with this sibling rivalry nonsense.”

“I just don’t understand why the mites would lie, pet,” Spike frowns. “They’re good kids.”

“Truth or Dare, Willa?” asks Barrie, a mischievous little redhead with a devil’s grin.

“Truth.”

“Have you ever kissed a boy?”

Willa giggles. This is an easy question, and not really embarrassing. “Yes, I have.”

Barrie isn’t finished. “With tongues?” she adds slyly.

Okay, i now /i it’s a little more personal. Willa blushes pink and nods her head, eyes sparkling at the memory. “My turn now,” she laughs. “Meredith, Truth or Dare?”

“Dare!”

The room rocks with the laughter of eight giggling girls as they continue to play, exposing each other’s innermost secrets in the time honored tradition of growing up.

Mama and Papa are invited to watch the great gift unveiling. With her siblings still being punished, Willa gets permission to bring them each a slice of cake and a glass of milk. Tara refuses to open her door so she leaves the tray in the hall. Both children still insist they haven’t done anything wrong.

Willa listens outside their doors for a few moments. She hears the clinking of fork against plate as Tyler eats his cake, resigned to his punishment. Tara, on the other hand, is throwing things against the wall, muttering words that would make Papa blush.

After passing along her siblings’ messages, Willa accepts her present from Treena. Hastily ripping the pretty paper off the box, she holds up three cotton print bra and panty sets. All the females ‘ooh’ and ‘aah’ while Papa turns a delicate shade of pink.

It’s the second gift that does him in, however. Morrigan’s present consists of a can of Skintimate shaving cream, a pack of disposable razors and an electric shaver. Papa’s off in a flash with a quick kiss to his daughter and wife, muttering something about leaving before she gets to the condoms and birth control pills.

Mama shares a giggle with the girls before following her husband out of the room and closing the door behind her. “Poor Spike,” she coos, taking her husband’s hands in hers. “Our girl’s turning into quite the young woman, isn’t she?”

“Feel like singing a bloody chorus of ‘Sunrise, Sunset,’” Spike shakes his head, a look of stunned awe on his face. “Been watchin’ her every day. When did she go all curvy?”

Buffy just smiles, remembering her mother’s appraisals every couple of years. “It goes with the territory of being parents, I suppose. Selective blindness until it’s too late.”

Tarabelle Hi Auntie Willow!

WhompingWillow Hey there, sweetie pie.

Tarabelle Mama punished me for something I didn’t do. All the balloons got busted for Willa’s party and she thought I did it.

WhompingWillow So you’re sneaking in a secret whine to your old Auntie, are you? Want me to call Mom?

Tarabelle I think I did a bad thing.

WhompingWillow You, Tara, or you, magicks?

Tarabelle Magicks. Remember when Grandpa Angel was here? Well, he punished me, too and I got sooo mad at him and it just went poof and there was smoke and I think they’re still here.

It takes three days and several rituals involving waving of smudge sticks and incense to rid the Bennett household of the Puck demons Tara has inadvertently summoned. Eighteen inches high, they look like bald Cabbage Patch dolls whose main purpose is to cause mischief.

Spike catches one locking Cheshire in the upstairs linen closet. Buffy finds one snipping the blooms off their stalks in the garden, and Willa grabs one pushing foodstuffs off the pantry shelves. Everyone is relieved when the Pucks vanish with Tara’s last chanted word.

Willow lectures her niece for over an hour on responsibility and magicks.

March 2016 – Teach Me

WWPryce Good evening, Tyler. Have you looked over the books I sent you?

BooksRMe09: Yeah. I really liked i The Aurelian Order /i . Are we gonna be in it? Because of Papa and Grandpa?

WWPryce I’ll ask your Grandpa if the book is ever revised. It might not be the wisest thing to do.

BooksRMe09: Because of people like Uncle Andrew’s friend?

WWPryce Indeed. Some people are not to be trusted with family secrets. Anyway, I’ve emailed you your next two lessons. Having a photographic memory certainly comes in handy, doesn’t it?

BooksRMe09: Especially when I like what I’m learning, Uncle Wes.

Tyler speaks with Papa about their place in the Aurelian order, and he agrees with Wesley. It wouldn’t be prudent to list mortal children in a demon history book. It would be all too tempting for some over-zealous or unscrupulous person to track them down.

“Besides all that, Ty, they’re probably goin’ to write about the end of old Spike. Not bein’ a bloody vampire anymore takes me right out of the Order.”

“Do you miss being a vampire?”

Papa answers truthfully, without hesitation. “I like bein’ with my family in the sunlight more than I miss bein’ a vampire.”

April 2016 - Faith

Willa holds the little package tightly to her chest, the delightful anticipation slowing her eager hands. Bobby’s birthday present. He told her it would be delayed, that it was being made special for her… and it is finally here.

She sits on her bed, slowly unwrapping the pretty paper and gently pries off the box’s cover. Two items nestle in the cotton batting – a gold necklace with Hebrew lettering, and a silver rectangle with ornate scrollwork and what looks to be some paper rolled up inside.

There’s also a letter from Bobby. She settles against the headboard to read it.

Dear Willa,

I hope you like the necklace. It’s ‘Willa’ in Hebrew, in case you’re wondering.

The other thing is a ‘mezuzah’. It’s for the front door of the house. In simple words, it means ‘G-d will guard your going and coming from now and for all time.’ I’m sure your aunts can explain it better if you want to know more.

I know that we aren’t really into religion, but we both believe in all things good and well meaning… and it never hurts to have a blessing for your house.

I miss you more each day.

Love,

Bobby

May 2016 – Bragging Rights

“Dawnie! How’s my favorite sister?” Buffy squeals into the receiver, always thrilled when the younger woman finds spare time to call.

“No wonder Giles always looked so exhausted. This Council stuff is running me ragged.”

“Not to mention my nephews. How are the little beastlings?”

“All four boys are reading, and Jason’s not only fluent in French and Spanish,” she brags with a mother’s pride, “but he’s picked up smatterings of Sumerian and Hebrew! And Jeremy’s a prodigy at the piano. He even reads music.”

Buffy’s pride knows no bounds. “Is it bad of me to wish you lived closer?”

“Of course not, and I know the boys would enjoy seeing you guys more, too. Oh! Get this… Jesse opens portals! He was sitting in his bedroom and said he wanted a cookie. The next thing I knew, there was a flash of green light, and he showed up in the kitchen. Almost scared Andy to death.”

Laughing out loud, Buffy manages to gasp: “I guess there goes our hope for perfectly normal kids. And what about Jonathan? Does he blend into the walls or something?”

“Nope, but he can take apart a computer and put it all back together.”

“Gods, girl… Lorne said to keep an eye on the kids. Xander’s Will is empathic to some degree, and believe it or not, Willa needs to be tested for Slayer tendencies.”

“You mean in addition to the vampy thing she does? And you never said a word about it?”

“Um, yeah? Sorry…”

“Okay, forgetting for the moment that you didn’t tell your own sister about the Slayer thing… what about the twins? Anything unusual there?”

“Ty’s studying demonology with Wesley by computer, and Tara’s into witchcraft. Willow’s gonna work with her on proper usage. It’ll be good for them both.”

“We just got new pictures of Kiana. She’s adorable!” Dawn gushes. “You’re so lucky they’re moving back to California.”

“Is this where I try and guilt you into moving back again? Twice in one phone call? I mean, after all… what are older sisters for?”

There’s silence for a moment before Dawn continues. “Tell you what, Buff. Andrew and I will talk about it and see what it would mean for the Council. For all of us to be close together again would be wonderful. It would be so good for the kids.”

Buffy sighs, hoping against hope for someday.

June 2016 – Live and Learn

‘Goddess bless the era of the Internet,’ thinks Willow. With hope borne of optimism, she and Becky have researched and rented a house in Ventura, California with an option to buy. It’s no more than an hour away from their friends. Close, but not too close.

By the time Social Services schedules their final interview, everything is packed for shipping. They sit in the office anxiously awaiting the word from on high, and the smile Ms. Leilani Kai wears entering her office tells them everything they need to know.

Final adoption papers are signed, and Kiana is legally a Rosenberg.

As soon as their belongings leave the house, the Rosenberg family head to the airport. Angel wants to meet Kiana, and he’s putting them all up in one of Wolfram & Hart’s luxury suites for two weeks.

Lorne helps to organize a welcome home/first birthday party, and Willow breaks into tears when the Bennetts and Harrises show up unexpected. It’s so good to be home again, back in the bosom of her friends.

Buffy promises to house sit the day the movers are expected, and will call after everything has been delivered. It can’t be soon enough for everyone involved.

Wesley pulls Willow aside a few days before she’s scheduled to leave for her new home to talk about Tyler’s demonology lessons. He’s heard about Tara’s little bout with the Puck demons and wonders what direction the girl’s lessons are taking.

“I think the twins are remarkably bright children. We should run them through a gamut of tests to see what talents they share, and what is unique to each of them.”

“Let’s not forget responsibility,” Willow insists. “It’s an issue I still deal with every day.”

Wesley agrees wholeheartedly. “You’ve grown wise, Ms. Rose… erm, Willow. Lessons well learnt.”

Willow smiles gently at Wesley, still amazed at the changes in the man. “When there’s so much to live for, Wes, it becomes important to recognize your place in the world – not destroy it. Right now, I find my greatest power is making Kiana smile and my woman happy.”

At Wesley’s sad expression, she hastens to add: “Which is why I think teaching and encouraging the children is the best thing for both of us. The ability to pass down all the knowledge and experiences we have – it means the best part of us will live on in the future.”

“That’s a beautiful thought, indeed.” Wesley face brightens. He might not have children of his own, but the chance to get close to Tyler and by extension the rest of the Bennett family, makes him happy. The appellation ‘Uncle Wes” warms him like nothing else.

He makes a snap decision, eager to get on with this new phase of life. “I think I’d like to spend some time getting to know the children better, with the approval of their parents. Perhaps spend some time with them this coming summer.”

Willow nods, looking forward to spending some time with them all.

True to her word, Buffy calls to let Willow know that the movers have finally arrived and it’s time to make the trek to Ventura. She promises to order in their favorite pizzas to celebrate the old-fashioned Scooby way.

Both Willow and Becky were looking forward to their new home. What they didn’t expect was to be greeted with a fully stocked kitchen, uncrated furniture, and empty boxes.

“I say when you have super strong friends, you take full advantage,” grinned Spike.

“Plus… nosy,” Buffy chimes in. “Nice lingerie. Remind me to shop with you sometimes.”

Spike nods in agreement.

August 2016 – Give and Take

Wesley takes up residence in the Bennett playroom for a month. He finds himself fascinated with the woman his erstwhile Slayer has become and the vampire – ex-vampire – she has tamed. From his first ill-placed steps into her life to the fondness and trust she places in him now, Wesley is grateful for the opportunities dropped into his lap.

To be a part of a loving family is beyond priceless to him. It fills a need he’s had all his life, one never satisfied by his own coldly reserved parents.

Each open display of affection heals another piece of his heart.

Willow brings a few magickal herbs with her as she and Wes prepare to test the Bennett children. Calling in Willa, she chants an incantation over a handful, and blows the herb over her niece’s head.

Willa sneezes as the herbs form a sparkling orange cloud around her. “Does this mean what I think it means, Auntie Willow?”

She smiles softly, knowing her parents won’t be jumping for joy at what they’ve already suspected for the past few years. “Yes, sweetie, you’re growing into your Slayer powers, with a side-helping of vampire demon.”

Her training will be very interesting, indeed.

The twins are tested as well, showing no indication of slayer or demon powers. Tara and Tyler are equally bright – Tyler having a photographic memory and a minor capacity for witchcraft, while Tara has high retention skills and is bursting with magickal abilities.

They agree to teach the twins the basics that Wes was raised on and Willow bypassed in her eagerness to show off in her younger days. The reasons behind the seemingly boring lessons are explained simply – magicks are a blessing and a responsibility and must be treated with reverence. The consequences for foolhardy use can be severe.

One rule is drummed into their heads above all others. They are never to practice magicks unsupervised. Tara’s already learned how things can get out of hand and isn’t eager to repeat the experience. She and Tyler agree to follow the rules explained and set before them.

Mama and Papa watch from the doorway, relishing the simple pleasure on all four faces. The twins soak up the knowledge offered like greedy sponges… both book and life lessons alike. Wes and Willow glow as they share part of themselves.

Everybody wins in a situation like this as their family grows stronger.

September 2016 – Friend or Foe

Tara finds herself sitting alone on the bench, not so eagerly awaiting the bell to announce the first day of school. Old friends have been treating her like a… piranha. Gracie Peterson sees to that with whispers and pointed fingers.

Mean and rotten, that’s what she is, and Tara is determined not to cry because of her. All she needs is the chant of “Cry baby” to add to her misery.

Groups of little girls snicker behind their hands, making the wait intolerable. Just as the bell rings, her escape is blocked. She looks up into Will’s sparkling brown eyes.

“A-are you gonna laugh at me too, Will?” Tara sniffled, bravely jutting her little chin out in an unconscious imitation of her Mama.

“I told Gracie to knock it off, and I don’t laugh at my friends,” he assures her.

Tara wants to believe him so badly. It’s been more than a year since Gracie first stuck her stupid nose in Will’s direction and she misses him desperately.

The bell rings its final warning call, and after wiping away the few tears coursing down Tara’s cheeks, Will grabs her hand as the friends make a mad dash for their classroom.

Tara gets off the school bus with Will and calls home. Since it’s the first day of school and there’s no homework, she’s allowed to stay for dinner and to catch up with her once best friend.

Molly and Xander watch over the two little ones as they sit on the porch swing waiting for Spike to come and ferry his daughter home. There’s a sense of peace around the little girl that’s been missing for far too long.

“You realize what the future has in store?” Molly asks, nodding in the children’s direction.

Xander adjusts his eyepatch, and smiles.

“Life’s funny, Mol,” he sighs, trying to rub away the headache forming behind his good eye. “If you would have told me when I was a kid that I’d be married to a demon and looking forward to being related to an ex-vampire by marriage of our children… I’d have laughed myself into the funny-farm.”

“And now?”

“Wouldn’t have it any other way.” He turns to go inside. “Say hello to Spike for me. I’m gonna take some Advil and lie down. This headache is getting worse.”

Molly nods, making a mental note to call the ophthalmologist in the morning.

The visit to Dr. Steinmetz proves pointless. Remembering Joyce’s condition, he’s a nervous wreck until the doctor renders his diagnosis. Xander’s eye appears to be perfectly healthy, and reading glasses are all the doctor can recommend to take the strain off for close work. With any luck, the headaches will fade away.

After several weeks of wearing the glasses on the job, the headaches are more manageable – down to maybe one a week and Xander finds himself relaxing. Until he starts making careless errors. Reading numbers backwards, missing a digit, putting things in the wrong column…he opts for stronger glasses.

October 2016 – In Defense of Family

Buffy hopes second grade will be easier on her boy thank last year. Unfortunately, things don’t work out that way. The boy is quiet and shy, and a group of louts have made it their special mission to terrorize him when the teachers are out of sight.

Spike’s heart goes out to his son when once again, the lad comes home bloodied and bruised in both body and soul.

“Why, Papa?” he asks, distress juddering through his small frame. “I try to stay away from them.”

How can he tell his son it’ll probably get worse before it gets better?

Tyler is astute enough to know one thing for sure – if he brings anyone into his battles it will only escalate things, so he’s resigned to fighting his way through school. However, the day he finds his sister cornered by two of the larger boys – David and Larry – something snaps inside him.

In a cold fury Tyler grabs David’s arm and spins him around. When the bigger boy laughs, Ty hauls off and decks him with a single punch to his chin. With a fluidity he’s never shown before, he heads for the other boy, who tucks tail and runs.

The twins sit in Mrs. Beene’s office, waiting for their Mama to answer the Principal’s summons. David sits on the opposite side of the room, waiting for his mother.

Everyone listens to the her lengthy lecture on fighting in school and turning the other cheek. Detention is issued for all three children. When Tara complains and relays what actually happened, David is suspended for a week’s time and Tyler is given an essay to write on the merits of non-violence and a warning.

Catching Mrs. Beene’s wink as he leaves the office gives Tyler an unexpected spring to his step.

November 2016 – We Gather Together

In spite of the reading glasses, Xander finds himself unable to read blueprints or fine print for any length of time without developing a migraine. His company has no choice but to let him go. Six weeks before Christmas finds the head of the Harris household unemployed for the first time in ten years.

His severance package is more than generous, but the issue is not money, it’s pride. It isn’t chauvinism, Xander insists. He doesn’t object to Molly becoming the breadwinner. The man just can’t stand to think of himself as a burden… a Zeppo after all these years.

Losing a job is not a tragedy along the lines of, say… a death in the family, but it’s mourned the same way and Spike decides to help out in a decidedly male show of support. He takes Xander out and they get rip roaring drunk.

The men start with beer, then move on to scotch and whiskey. By this time, the tears are free-flowing complete with sobs and wails. Frustration and grief draw other patrons into their circle and before long the bar is one boat-load of commiserated misery.

Several hours later, Buffy arrives to ferry the guys home.

The Bennetts host Thanksgiving dinner this year. Willow and Becky bring their rambunctious toddler, who takes an immediate liking to her Uncle Xander. Kiana finds his eye patch fascinating. She squeals with delight each time Xander ducks away from her grasping fingers.

Things could be worse, he thinks, as laughter and gaiety surround him. He is truly grateful to be amidst family and friends who constantly remind him of his worth in their eyes.

He’ll just sit back and enjoy his family for awhile before worrying about getting some kind of job. Maybe after the New Year. He has time.