Part 14:

"I can't believe this is happening." Xander commented, watching the activity outside the waiting room.

"I know." Willow said, speaking softly so as not to disturb Dawn who had fallen asleep. She was afraid the doctors were going to have to sedate Dawn, but a few soothing words from Tara, and she was asleep.

"Will, what you did…" Xander stated.

"I know I'm not supposed to use magic, but I had to do something to help Buffy." She said, her eyes downcast.

Xander touched her arm, prodding her till she looked up. "I wanted to say it was amazing what you did. I'm not mad at you, none of us are. If you hadn't pulled that bullet out, it might have done more damage. You gave Buffy a chance to survive this." He told her, squeezing her arm to emphasize his point.

"She has to pull through, Xander. If she doesn't survive, it'll destroy Spike. Did you see how devastated he was? It was as if that bullet had ripped through his heart." Willow shuddered, hearing Spike's anguished pleas reverberate through her head.

"You know," Xander said, in contemplation. "I never really believe Spike could love Buffy as much as we did. I was wrong. I was so wrong." He said, shaking his head. "I disregarded his feelings last summer, but seeing them firsthand…"


Giles stood up, stretching his tired body. He paced the length of the room, taking peeks every now and then down the hallway to where Buffy lay unconscious. He felt helpless, useless, and knew this was taking a terrible toll on Spike and Dawn.

"Here, Giles." Anya handed him a paper cup full of steaming coffee. "I wanted to get tea, but this was the best they had.

"It's perfect Anya. Thank you." Giles smiled appreciatively at her, noting the circles under her eyes. "I hope you got something for yourself."

She shook her head. "No, I'm not hungry. I got some snacks for Dawn. I hope we can get her to eat something." Her voice caught. Giles put his arm around her and led her away from the group.

"I'm sorry, Giles. This is just all so sad. Buffy can't die. She's already died twice. Hasn't she suffered enough? And Dawnie?" Giles awkwardly patted Anya on the back, trying to comfort her. Anya threw her arms around Giles' waist.

"There, there, Anya. We have to keep praying that won't happen." He felt Anya's tears soak through his scrub top.

"I don't know why I'm being so silly. Buffy won't die. Spike won't let her." She smiled.

"You're right. He loves her very much." Anya nodded again, resting her head against Giles' chest. The two leaned on each other, both hoping that this time death wouldn't win the battle with Buffy.

Dawn stirred, her head bumping Tara's chin as she sat up. She rubbed her eyes, and looked around. "Any word yet?" She asked.

Tara shook her head, smoothing Dawn's hair down. "No, not yet. Spike said he would come and get us if there was any change in Buffy's condition.

Dawn hugged her body, rocking gently in the seat. "I felt the baby calling to me, begging me to save her. She was in so much pain, Tara." Tara pulled Dawn to her, gripping Dawn's shoulder tightly.
"I know you're scared, Dawnie, but you have to believe Buffy's going to pull through. You have to have faith."

"But I don't feel the baby anymore. I don't feel Bitty." Dawn told her, brokenly.

"That might be a good thing." Tara stroked Dawn's arm. "The doctor's said Buffy was in a light coma. She's sleeping very deeply."

"Do you think she knows we're here?" Tara smiled.

"Yes, I do. I think on some level she's aware of us." Tara meditated tried to reach out to Buffy's subconscious, but the drugs they'd given her were too potent.


"Buffy. Buffy. Wake up." Buffy felt the cold hand shaking her gently.

"Spike." Buffy said, opening her eyes. A young woman stood next to her, a child cradled in her arms. Buffy scrambled away in confusion.

"Where am I?" Buffy asked, panicked by the familiar surroundings. "No, please. I don't want to be here." Buffy stroked her stomach. "Oh, god, my baby's dead." The woman stepped closer, and Buffy's heart ached for her own child. "Bitty. I'm so sorry, baby."

The woman glanced at the bundle in her arms, her long black hair falling like a curtain over the child. "She is here, Buffy. She isn't lost, but you will have to fight to keep her safe."

Buffy's hands flew to her mouth, her voice shaky with emotion. "My baby." She said, reaching out to take the tiny bundle. The woman kissed the little blonde head before placing her in Buffy's arms.

"Hi, Bitty. Mommy is here." Buffy tenderly kissed the child's cherubic face. "Mommy loves you. I'm never going to let anything bad happen to you ever again." The woman touched Buffy's arm. Buffy looked up, her hazel eyes swimming with tears.

"Thank you for saving her."

"I didn't. She survives because of love. She has many people who love her, and want to see her brought safely into this world. Trust in those people, Buffy. They will guide you along your journey. You mustn't be afraid of what you discover about her origins, for there is more to her than you know. There is much more you have to do. " Buffy glanced up and it dawned on her who this woman was. The sun's rays illuminated her mane of jet-black hair in a halo of sunshine.

"Martine, I'm sorry they hurt you."

Martine smiled. "Thank you, but don't mourn for me, Buffy. I lived and I loved. You must remember this Buffy. The diary is the key. The Key will protect the baby. It's time for you to go. You have much to do."

Martine stroked the baby's cheek with the back of her hand. "Goodbye, little one. Live a long, healthy life." Martine smiled sadly.


Buffy struggled to wake up. Her eyes felt so heavy. She could hear humming all around her, like a thousand bees surrounding her. She began to panic, fearful of what she couldn't see. She felt something cold pressed into her hand. Spike. Spike was here, she thought. He wouldn't allow anything to hurt her, and that thought immediately calmed her. Buffy opened her eyes, but closed them quickly. She opened her eyes again, trying to focus them. The room came into focus, and Buffy recognized the sterile interior of the area, the machines. She was obviously in a hospital. She winced as she tried to move. Her back felt as if it was on fire, and her mouth tasted like sandpaper. She reached up, pushing the oxygen mask away from her face.

Buffy wet her lips. Glancing down, she could see a familiar blond head resting on the bed. She could look at him forever. "Spike." She whispered, her throat hurting. She tried again to make him hear her. "Spike." She repeated. She felt drowsy again, but she didn't want to go back to sleep. She groaned her resistance.

Spike's head shot up at the sound, and he found himself staring into a pair of hazel eyes he thought he'd never see again. He stared, his mouth gaping open.

"My back hurts." She whimpered. Spike had never heard a more beautiful sound.

"You got shot, luv." He said, reaching out to brush her hair behind her ear. "Warren shot you. Do you remember?"

Buffy shook her head, and Spike was grateful for her lapse in memory. He wished he could forget.

"Is the baby okay?" She asked. She had to be sure. She had to know if the dream was real or just her imagination. Spike lowered his eyes, trying to reign in his emotions. He heard a wail, and realized it was Buffy.

"Oh, god. No, no, the baby is fine." Spike hastily assured her. "The baby's fine." He gently stroked her face with his fingertips. "Bitty is all right. She gave us a scare, but the doctors said you're both going to be okay."

"Are you sure?" Her voice cracked, hoping he wasn't trying to spare her. "She's alive."

"Look for yourself, luv." He said, pointing to the monitor. Buffy turned her head, grimacing. A monitor was placed near the bed, and Buffy could hear a steady thumping coming from it.

Buffy's hand trembled as she reached out to the monitor. "Our baby." She said, as Spike pulled her other hand to his lips, kissing it hard. "She could have been killed, Spike. I let Warren hurt her. I'm so sorry." She sobbed. Buffy felt him tremble.

"It wasn't your fault, Buffy." He whispered, struggling to keep his composure. "You didn't know, luv."

"It doesn't matter now. You're safe. She's safe." He couldn't look at her. "I was so scared, Pet."

Buffy nodded. "Me, too." She laid her hand on his face. "You look awful." She said, earning a soft laugh from him.

"I have no life without you and Bitty. I couldn't live without you." Spike cried, lowering his head, and weeping. Buffy reached over and ran her fingers through his hair.

"I didn't want to leave you again." They stared into each other's eyes, drinking in the sight of the other. To Buffy, no heavenly peace compared with what she had now.

Spike moved quickly. He grabbed her face, heedless of the mask, and kissed her with all the fear and terror of the last 10 hours. "I need to get your doctors, and Dawn is outside. Will you be alright for a few minutes?"

Buffy nodded. "Don't be gone long." She said, gripping his hand tightly.

"I won't. I'm not letting you out of my sight for the next 50-60 years."




Six pairs of eyes looked up, expectantly when Spike entered the waiting room. Giles took one look at Spike's tear-stained face, and assumed the worse.

"She's awake." Spike said before his legs gave out. Dawn rushed to him, wrapping him up in her arms.


"I'm not supposed to let this many people in here at one time. You have 5 minutes, then you'll need to go. She needs to get her rest." The nurse checked Buffy's IV before exiting the room. Dawn held Buffy's hand tightly, refusing to release it for even a second. Spike stood across the room, watching her closely. Giles held Buffy's other hand, patting it clumsily.

"You gave us quite a scare." Giles told her. Last night had been the longest of his life. Even after Willow's assistance, the doctor's weren't sure Buffy would survive, and if she did, if the baby would.

"I feel awful for putting you guys through this." Buffy said sheepishly.

"Nonsense, Buffy. It wasn't your fault. It's not like you wanted to get shot." Willow told her, tweaking her toe.

"Yeah, Buff. Don't worry about us. We're a lot stronger than we appear." Xander assured her. He could joke now. Earlier, it had taken everything to stamp down the nausea he felt looking at all the blood.

"I'm glad you weren't killed Buffy. I would have missed you." Anya said.

Buffy nodded. "I would have missed you too, Anya."

"How are you feeling now?" Tara asked, sliding her arm around Willow's waist. Buffy saw this, and smiled.

"I'm good." Buffy answered back, squeezing Dawn's hand.

"The doctors say you'll need to be here for about a week, but that's their best guess. It'll probably be shorter with your healing powers." Tara told her.

"I don't care as long as the baby is alright. Did someone call the school about Dawn?" Buffy asked.

"Yeah, we did. We talked to her principal. She was very understanding. We also spoke to Mr. Walker from Social services." Willow added.


"Thanks, guys. I don't know what we'd do without you." Buffy glanced out of the corner of her eye at Spike. Since speaking to her earlier, he'd kept his distance. Dawn squeezed her hand, drawing her attention from Spike. They were going to have to talk, Buffy.

Anya wondered over to Spike, feeling some kinship with her demon pal. "You're quiet. Are you okay?" She asked, genuinely concerned.

"I'm fine, Anya. Thanks for asking." He could still smell Buffy's blood on his skin. Even after washing it off and changing into scrubs, he could still feel it on him. It seemed as if it had seeped into his bones.

"Sometimes they forget there's someone else who loves Buffy as much as they do." Anya offered in defense of her friends. Spike shrugged.

"No, they just want to assure themselves this is real, that they are not dreaming." Anya nodded her head in agreement, placing a comforting hand on his shoulder.


"Buffy, do you need me to get you some water?" Dawn asked quietly. She'd been doing that a lot, peppering Buffy with questions or touching her, as if to reassure herself Buffy was indeed alive.

"Thanks, Dawn, but I'm not thirsty. I'm tired." Buffy said with a sigh.

"That's our cue to leave." Giles said to all of them.

Giles gingerly pulled Buffy into his arms. He was reluctant to leave her, but knew she needed her rest, and they did to. He also wanted to check to see if Warren had been arrested. After shooting Buffy, no one remembered seeing him. If Warren had escaped, then Buffy's life was still in danger. True to form, no mention of the attack had made the Sunnydale papers, and the Scoobies presence at the scene was dismissed as being merely an unfortunate coincidence.

"I'm going to take Dawn home. Let her get some sleep. We'll be back tonight." Giles stroked Buffy's cheek with the back of his hand, pausing to gaze at her.

Buffy patted his hand. "I'm okay, Giles. I'm okay." She reassured him.

"Yes, you are, my dear." Giles leaned down and kissed her softly on the temple. Blinking back tears, Giles turned away, stopping in front of Spike. "Take care of her." Spike nodded stoically. "And get something to eat, you look terrible."

"Buffy, we'll talk later. Don't worry about Dawn. Tara is going to stay at the house with us, until you get out of the hospital." Willow told her, embracing Buffy, careful of the wound to her back.

"Thanks, Will." Willow tried to pull away, but Buffy held her to her bosom. "For what you did for me and my baby, I can never repay you." Willow felt the tears returning, and quickly stepped back.

"I love you, Buffy."

"Love you, too."

Tara bent down for a quick hug. The two women stared. "We'll talk later. Get some rest, Buffy."

"I will and thanks again Tara." Buffy smiled as the two women left the room, hand in hand. At there was something positive to come out of this whole thing. She thought.

"Buff, next time you want our attention, do it in a less vivid way. Geez, always gotta be the center of attention." Xander teased, kissing Buffy on the forehead. She squeezed his hand, and held on lightly as he walked away.

"Buffy, if you need anything. Call me. I want to help." Buffy reached out her hand to Anya, who took it.

"I'm gonna take you up on that. Now, go home, and get some rest." Buffy told her. Anya grinned, and then, shocked them all by embracing Spike before she left.

"I only have eyes for you, love." Spike teased her, when Buffy's brow arched in his direction.

That left Dawn, who hadn't bulged from her spot next to the bed. Dawn had tears in her eyes. "I don't want to leave."

"Dawn, I'll rest better knowing you're taking care of yourself. Now, let Tara and Willow spoil you senseless. We'll see each other in a few hours." Sometimes, Buffy forgot she was only sixteen. They'd both lived a thousand lives over the last 2 years.

"I was so scared, Buffy. The baby.. she was in so much pain."

"She sent you another message, didn't she?" Dawn nodded. "I'm sorry you had to see that. You shouldn't have had to see that. I wish I knew why this was happening, but we're fine. Look at her heartbeat. Look how fast it's going. She's a tough little cookie, like her mom and dad." Spike smiled, his eyes glued to the monitor as well.

"That's a Summers trait. No offense, Spike."

"None taken, Nib." Spike smirked. "You'd better scoot before the warden comes in here, and throws you out." Spike gestured to the nurse, who was glaring at them from the nurses' station.

"Yes, come along Dawn. Let's let them get some rest." Dawn gave Buffy one final hug before allowing Giles to lead her out of the room.


Buffy watched her till she passed, and slumped back exhausted. "Spike." Buffy waited till he looked up. If it was possible, the immortal had aged in the hours since her shooting.

"Yeah, luv." He said with hint of a smile.

"I need you." Spike approached the bed cautiously. She sensed his hesitation, and knew he was still somewhat in shock over her shooting. She had to make him see that she was going to be around for a very long time.

"Where's my ring?" She asked, hoping it would remind him they had a future.

<i>When the emergency room doctors cut away Buffy's bloody clothes, they found her ring, nestled between her breasts. A nurse came out, asking for her next of kin. Giles got up and told the young man he was her father. She gave him the chain. Giles stared at the emerald ring, the implications of its existence clear to him. He informed the nurse that Spike was Buffy's fiancé and the father of her child.

The nurse nodded and approached Spike, who was huddled with Dawn. She took in his bloody appearance, and knew instantly he was in shock. The nurse bent her head, looking with sympathy at him. "Sir, the doctors will be out as soon as they stabilize Ms. Summers. How many months along is she?"

Spike heard her voice, and he answered on autopilot. His mind was still fuzzy with the images and sounds of Buffy struggling to live. "Uh, she's three and half months." Spike answered, his blue eyes swimming with unshed tears.

"Is our baby dead?" Spike squeezed his eyes shut, afraid she'd tell him his Bitty was gone.

"No, it isn't. The doctors will be able to tell you more. It shouldn't be long." The woman touched Spike's shoulder. "She's young, that's in her favor. They'll do everything in their power to save both of them."

Spike nodded and buried his head in his hands.</i>


"Spike?" Buffy said, touching his hand. "It's not lost, is it?"

"No, here it is." Spike said, lifting Buffy's chain from around his neck. Buffy sighed with relief when she saw it.

"Can't lose this. You might not marry me." She joked, but Spike was lost in his own world of pain and remembrance.

"Talk to me, Spike." Buffy pleaded, "I don't remember what happened. I want to because I know it must have been awful for you. I can see it in your eyes."

"It's nothing. You need to get your rest." Spike scrubbed his hair, wanting to forget last night, wanting to forget the sounds, the smells, all of it.

"Stop patronizing me." Buffy yelled, drawing the attention of the nurse walking past. She admonished them both, reminding Spike, Buffy needed rest, not stress.

"Buffy, go to sleep. I'm just going to go find something to eat." He said.

"No, we talk now. Why won't you touch me? Why aren't you over here right now with your arms around me?" She said agitated.

"Please, Spike. Talk to me." She begged.

Spike didn't want to talk about it. He only wanted to forget this ever happened, but of course, Buffy wouldn't let it go. "I couldn't protect you last night. You would have died, and I wouldn't have been able to stop it from happening. Again!" He said, his voice breaking.

"I love you. I Love You!" Buffy's arm reached out and snatched him down on the bed. "I know we almost died last night, but we didn't. We're still here, and we need you." Buffy grabbed Spike's face, peering into those blue eyes that she'd willingly drown in.

"What do you need me for?" He said pitifully.

"For everything. You saved me from me. We wouldn't have this baby if you hadn't forced me to open my heart. You've made me so happy, made me so much stronger. You're my heaven. Nothing that heaven could offer me could compare to being here with you, in your arms. Nothing."

Buffy felt her fingers become wet with his tears. "I can still hear your heart slowing. I can hear my baby girl dying. I can't close my eyes without seeing the blood. I feel it on my skin. I can't wash it off, Buffy." Spike was sobbing loudly, but Buffy didn't stop him, knowing he needed to put to words all the terror he'd felt. She pulled his unresisting body into bed with her. She ran her hands over his back, encouraging him to continue.

"I smell your blood everywhere." His arms inched around her waist. "I'm scared to touch you. I'm afraid it'll all be a dream, and you're really not here."

Buffy kissed his curls, wanting to take all his pain and roll it into a ball, throw it as far as possible. "Does this feel like a dream to you?" She said, kissing his lips slowly, softly. Spike tried to pull away, which infuriated Buffy, but she continued to kiss him, increasing the pressure till his resistance yielded, and she slid her tongue inside his mouth.

"Does this?" She said, taking his hand and placing it over her heart. "Do you feel how fast it beats when you're around? I love you. Don't you know that by now, you silly fool?" Spike could only nod his head, astonished.

"Are you trying to seduce me?" Spike asked when he finally found his voice.

"Maybe, would it finally convince you I'm okay?" She said, teasing his lip.

"I don't ever want to go through that again, luv. It nearly killed me." He said seriously.

"I know, and I'm sorry. You gave me this," she said, showing him the ring on her finger, "and promised to never leave me. Well, you have my promise. I'm not going anywhere. You got me. I'm yours, forever."


"How's the patient?" Xander said, peeking his head through the door.

Buffy smiled. "Bored. Please tell me you're here to bust me out of this joint?" Buffy joked.

"Ah, sorry, Buff. Don't really want the Master Vamp and the Ripper to come down on me." Xander leaned down and gave Buffy a quick hug, making sure to avoid her bandaged back.

Xander reached in his pocket, and pulled out a pack of cookies. "I brought you these, though."

Buffy's eyes widened and she clapped her hands together. "Ah, real junk food. Thank you. Thank you." She screamed quietly, greedily grabbing at the pack, and ripping it open.

"Umm. They are delicious. Umm." Crumbs fell from her mouth, but she didn't care. "They won't let me have anything even remotely bad, which means no ice cream, no cookies, no chips. I'm a growing girl here." She said, patting her stomach.

"They're just concerned, that's all." Xander smiled at Buffy's obvious enjoyment of the cookies.

"And to top it off, my formally amoral boyfriend is listening to them."

Xander chuckled. "What do you mean, formally? He's still amoral."

"He's a big cream puff, and you know it." Buffy grinned, dropping crumbs on the bed sheet. "So how was your date with Anya last night?"

It seemed her shooting hadn't just left its mark on Willow and Tara's relationship, but Anya and Xander's as well. Buffy didn't know the particulars, but from what she could get from Spike and Dawn, the two former lovers were being civil towards one another, which was a definite improvement over the last few weeks.

"It wasn't a date, but I think it went well." Xander said, his big brown eyes bright with hope. "We talked for the first time in a long time. I didn't realize how long it had been since we really sat down and talked honestly with each other."

"Talking is a big thing in relationship. Not that I'm that familiar with it myself, but I've heard rumors that it's a good thing." Buffy brushed the crumbs off the bed, lest the nurses see them.

"I didn't talk to Angel or Riley or even Spike, until recently. But to make our relationship work, I can't keep things bottled up inside anymore. Spike doesn't have that problem. He talks all the time."

"You guys are good together." Xander admitted.

"Did I just hear a compliment come out of your mouth, Alexander Harris?" Buffy whistled low, laughing at the wounded look on Xander's face.

"Yeah, and I'll deny it if anybody asks."

Buffy nudged him with her leg. "So, can I be nosy and ask what you and Anya talked about?"

"You, actually." Buffy knitted her brow.

"Me?" She said, pointing to herself.

"Yeah, seems I’ve been in love with you since high school." Buffy mouth dropped open. Flies could have set up shop and she wouldn't have noticed.

"You told her that. I'm surprised you still have all your parts." Buffy said, flabbergasted.

"I promise you, it didn't sound that bad when I told her. Willow gave me a stern talking to the night Dawn got attacked. She made me see some truths about myself and how I was treating everyone." Xander slumped back in his chair.

"Are you sure you want to hear this Buff? I can tell you jokes or something?" Buffy tilted her head.

"Xander, I'm not afraid of what you're going to say. I love you. So, yes, please tell me."

"I love Anya. I really do. I just don't think I was in love with her. How could I have been? I constantly tried to make her into you. Every time I think about how I nick picked every little thing Anya said or did, I'm surprised she stayed with me as long as she did. And then, there is you. I’m supposed to be your friend, but I haven’t been a very good one. I’ve been judgmental and self-righteous. I’ve done everything, but tell you what to wear.” Xander gripped his hands together, too embarrassed to look at her. I forced a lot of crap down your throat. I'm surprised you haven't choked on it."

"You were trying to protect me. I understood." She shrugged.

“You’re being too understanding, Buff. I second-guessed every decision you made, especially where your love life was concerned.”

Buffy wanted to reassure him she had no ill feelings, but she couldn’t. Xander had overstepped his bounds on more than once. When he didn’t tell her about Angel, then trying to guilt-trip her about Riley. And the finally with Spike, and his nasty, hateful words to her. Nope, she wasn’t going to make him feel better. She had to face up to her actions, he needed to do the same. If he didn’t, he’d never get past this point in his life. He’d never grow up.

"I've done so many things in the name of love, and they weren't done out of love, but my own fear and cowardice."

"I put you on a pedestal, Buffy. When you didn't live up to my expectations, I turned my back on you. I'm sorry.” Xander continued to stare at the floor. “And Anya, god, she got the worse of it. Well, she and Spike, but I didn't promised to love Spike for the rest of my life."

"Well, I hope not. That's my job." Buffy twisted the ring on her finger.

"I expected more from you than I did of myself, Buffy. I expected Anya to know everything there was about being human, and she doesn't and probably never will. But that's what makes Anya, Anya. Those very qualities are what makes her special and unique. I didn't appreciate that. It’s easier, you know, to go with what's familiar, what's comfortable."

"I get that. I really do." Buffy said sympathetically. "I'm not perfect. I made mistakes, and lord knows, I'm not sure why Spike stuck around as long as he did. I had to face some harsh truths about myself too. You're not alone in the 'kicking yourself in the butt' club."

"I want to make things right with Anya, with you. I want to love Anya the right way, but I fully expect her to never trust me again. I'm okay with that, as long as she lets me be in her life again."

Buffy leaned forward, stroking Xander's chin. "I'm sure she will, Xan. Give her time. Be patient."

"Cheating on me, luv." A distinctly familiar British voice called out from the door. Xander smiled, noticing how Buffy's entire demeanor brightened when she heard Spike's voice.

"To quote the Giles man, that's my cue to leave." Xander stood, brushing Buffy's hand as did. "Talk to ya later, Buff. Love you." He leaned in to kiss her, but stopped when he heard Spike cough loudly. "See ya."

"Spike." Xander said, smiling.

"Harris." Spike said, closing the door in Xander's face.

"That was rude." Buffy admonished, but she was smiling broadly.

"Was it? Hmm, I guess you'll have to spank me for being bad." Buffy shook her head at the mischievous gleam in Spike's eyes.

"Interesting offer. Might take you up on it when we get home."Spike sat down, his fingers linked with Buffy’s. His other hand resting on the other side of the bed.

Would she ever get used to the way he looked at her, as if he could see into her soul, feel what she felt? Would she ever stop feeling her heart jump when he entered a room or she heard his voice? God, she hoped not.

"Did you have a nice visit with Harris, Pet?" He said, drawing lazy circles on her arm.

"Yes, I did. He brought me cookies." She said, daring him to say something. Spike merely quirked his brow.

"Chocolate chip?" He asked, innocently, too innocently for Buffy's taste.

"Uh huh. Why?"

"Thought I might have a taste." Buffy giggled as Spike bore her back into the bed.



"Ms. Summers, I know Dr. Schulz gave you specific instructions for the next few weeks. I want to reiterate them." The surgeon said, sitting down next to Buffy. "We were lucky the bullet didn't do more damage. I know you‘re feeling better, but you need to take it easy. No strenuous activity. No over-exertion. You must eat properly, and get plenty of rest. So.."

"Dr. Franks," Buffy interrupted. "I understand. Sit down. Shut up, and look pretty. Will do. I won't do anything to jeopardize my baby."

Standing up, Dr. Franks said . "One more thing, then I’ll let you go. Call the office on Monday for an appointment. Just routine.“ He said. We need to check the wound, make sure it's healing properly."

Dr. Franks turned to leave. Buffy grabbed his hand to stop him. He looked at the young woman and saw tears in her eyes. “Thank you saving our baby. You’ll never know how grateful we are.”

Dr. Franks gave her hand a quick squeeze. “My pleasure, Buffy. Take care.”

An orderly appeared at the door with a wheelchair. "Are you ready to go, Ms. Summers?"

"Yes, please. I‘m ready to go home."


Giles glanced in the rearview mirror, watching the couple in the back. It still shocked him to see Buffy up and about, smiling at Spike, her hand resting lightly on her stomach. This scene of bliss contrasted distinctly with the scene from a week ago. He wouldn’t dwell on that. Buffy was alive, and that was all that mattered. She was safe and happy, and he’d do anything to ensure she stayed that way.

“You’re pretty quiet. You okay?” Spike asked, holding her tightly to his side.

“Yeah, just thinking about Warren actually.” Buffy felt Spike stiffened, and she stroked his chest to get him to relax. “I still can’t figure him out. I guess I’ll never understand evil.“

“Why give him another thought, Pet? He’s long gone. No one’s seen him since... “ Spike left off the rest of that statement.“ Buffy snuggled closer, her hand seeking his.

“He took something away from us, Spike. We should have been celebrating our engagement. I don’t want to put my life on hold worrying about Warren or the Council. Life is too short. I don’t want to wait any longer, Spike.”

“Wait on what, luv?” Spike peered at her in the darkness.

“I want to marry you. I don’t want to wait till the baby’s born. We’ve waited long enough, don’t you think?”

“I’ll marry you whenever you want.”

“How about 2 weeks from Saturday?”

Ch.15

Ch. 15: At Last

"Did you feel that?" Buffy asked Spike.

"I felt it. She kicked. It's too soon for that, isn't it?" He said, reaching for the prenatal book.

"Spike. Her mother's the Slayer, and her father’s a Vampire. Do you really think she's going to follow the rules?" Buffy grinned, watching Spike's face light up with wonder. He bent down, and her eyebrow quirked. He pulled up short, and kissed her belly.

"Hi, Bitty. Whatcha doing? Letting Mommy and Daddy know you're happy to be home."

Buffy couldn’t agree more with her daughter. She was happy to home, thrilled to be here with Spike.

"They say we can have sex up until the day of the birth, as long as it's comfortable for you. You don't think that's why she started kicking early, do you?" Spike asked, thumbing through the manual.

Buffy rolled her eyes, and plucked the book out of his hands. "We can stop having sex if you’re worried.” Buffy chuckled at the look of horror on Spike’s face. Yeah, that’s what I thought.

“Bitty is fine. She's a prophecy baby, Spike. Everything she does is a miracle, so stop worrying." She said, getting up to go to the bathroom. She grabbed Spike's shirt, since it was one of the few things that still fit her.

"I went into the hospital wearing my old clothes, and come out, having to wear your things. That's just great. All you were is black." Spike watched appreciatively as she strode out of the room, her shapely bottom peeking out from under the shirt.

When Buffy returned, Spike had a bridal magazine out and was flipping through the pages. Dawn had spent a small fortune buying every magazine she could find. The girl was nothing, if not thorough.

"Find anything you like?" Buffy asked, crawling into bed. Spike fluffed a pillow for her, and waited till she got comfortable before showing her the gown he liked.

"Whaddya think, luv? Good enough for you?" Buffy nodded.

"It's beautiful, Spike, but I'd go nude to marry you." She said, pecking him on the cheek.

"Really?" He said hopefully, and Buffy had to laugh.

"I'm glad you're home, luv."

"Me, too." Buffy rubbed her head against his. "Can you believe we’re going to do this?" She commented, pointing to the picture of a bride and groom.

"2 weeks from Saturday, luv. We don't have to go through with it. I'm happy with the way things are right now." Spike told her.

"Liar." Buffy giggled at the expression on Spike's face.

"I'm hurt, Pet. I've never lied to you." He said, grinning. "Okay, well, not since we've been together."

"It’s not so much the ceremony, as it is saying the words in front of people we know and love. Showing them that I’m committed to you, to our family. Does that make any sense?” Buffy scooted closer, sliding her arms and legs between and around his. Spike sighed, knowing he’d never get used to the warmth of her body, and he was thankful for that.

"Perfect sense, luv.” Spike rubbed her shoulders. “I only have one request. Do I have to wear a monkey suit?"


Tara and Willow lay across the hall, chests heaving, limbs entwined. "That… that was nice." Willow said between breaths.

"Yeah, nice. I forgot how nice it could be." Tara said, rolling over onto her side. Her face was body was flush with spent desire, and Willow reached out, tracing her fingers across her bosom.

"Tara, I know this doesn’t mean we’re back together." Willow stated. "I hope we can someday."

Tara reached out, pushing Willow's hair out of her face. "Willow, I wouldn't be here if it was only about sex. I love you. I never stopped." Tara opened her arms, and Willow rolled into them, resting her head on Tara’s chest.

"I love you, too, Tara. I always will." Willow said, kissing Tara.

"You know why I'm really here, Will?" Tara asked her, her fingers stroking Willow's shoulder. "Spike."

Willow sat up, confused. "Spike? Buffy's Spike?"

Tara sat up, too. "Yeah. We went to the cafeteria for lunch. We talked. He was so grateful for the opportunity to be with her another day. He told me that they were working on their third chance at love. He wasn't going to waste one more day worrying about the past, the present, or the future." Tara clutched Willow's hands. " It seemed silly to stay away from you, when I knew my feelings hadn't changed."

"I don’t deserve you after everything I’ve done. I betrayed your trust. I hurt you, and I did it with the best intentions, which makes it even scarier."

Willow bowed her head, tears threatening to fall. Tara lifted her chin. "Looking at Buffy and Spike now, who would be able to tell they used to be enemies? They overcame trying to kill each other. We can overcome our issues. I trust you, Willow. I love you." They grabbed at each other’s faces, mouths fusing in a passionate kiss.

"I love you so much. I promise you won't regret taking me back, Tara."

Tara pulled Willow back for another kiss. "I don't." She whispered huskily. Willow pulled the sheet away, hating having anything separating them.


Dawn sat up in bed, looking around the room for the noise that woke her up.

“Auntie Dawn.” In the corner of the room, near the photo of her mom and Buffy, hovered a tiny shining ball.

“Hello, Bitty. I was so worried about you.”

“Mommy was sick. Auntie Willow made her better.”

“Yes, she did.” Dawn reached out, and the ball floated closer, allowing Dawn to touch it. Dawn felt a jolt of energy pass through her body, and heard giggling off in the distance.

“That tickles. Mommy and Daddy are happy. I’m happy, Auntie Dawn.”

“I’m glad, lil’ Bit.” This connection between Dawn and the child confused her sometimes, but she felt honored she had chosen her to communicate with.

“That’s what Daddy calls you.”

“Yes, it is. Can I call you that?”

“Nope, I’m Bitty.” Dawn rolled her eyes at the little imp, imagining a tiny smirk on her face. “I have to go now. You must be ready Auntie Dawn. When the time comes, you must be prepared for the next step.”

“The next step?” The glow giggled some more, then slowly the light diminished, plunging the room once again in darkness.

“I’m older than you, Bitty. You should respect your elders.” Dawn pulled the covers over her head, when she heard Bitty laugh.


Buffy walked quickly up the stairs and snatched the phone off the hook. "Hello? Hello, I'm here."

"Ms. Summers, please." Buffy stretched the cord, pulling a chair into the doorway. She sat down before answering.

"Hello, Ms. Hemmings, this is Buffy. How are you?" Buffy asked.

"Oh my, I thought you were still in the hospital, child. I was sorry to hear of your accident. I hope you are feeling better. But to answer your question, I am good." Buffy strained to pick out the words. Françoise Hemmings was a Cajun, through and through. Her accent was so thick, Giles had trouble taking the message when she called last week.

"I'm feeling much better. Glad to be out of the hospital." Buffy told her.

"And your child. Was it harmed?"

"No, she's fine. She's doing great actually." Buffy stroked her stomach, wanting to feel Bitty kick again. "My friend told me you found some papers of your great-great uncle. Was there a diary or journal amongst them?" Amongst them? Damn, Spike and Giles are definitely rubbing off on me.

"Might I ask why you are so interested in his writings?" Francoise lit her pipe, waiting for Buffy's reply.

"Do you know what Charles Jayme did in England?" Buffy asked cautiously.

"Yes, he was a Watcher. The story is well known in my family. We are not so backwards here in the swamp. We know of the creatures of the night that roam freely through the world. We've known about them longer than the Council."

"You might be right about that. Well, Mr. Jayme's charge," Buffy said, not wanting to reveal too much. "Martine Auberjonis fulfilled a prophecy that I believe may explain why I am pregnant now."

"So, the prophecy has finally found two lovers to accomplish its wishes. Excellent. My family is very happy to hear that. We have waited for this day for many years." Buffy sat up, surprised at the turn in events.

"Your family has known of the prophecy since Charles Jayme settled in the States." Buffy stated, the realization nearly knocking her off the chair.

"Yes, my uncle was very upset by what happened in France. He knew that one day there would be another Slayer, another vampire, and their love would bring a child into this world. He wanted us to be prepared for that day. He knew the lovers would seek the answers to this miracle."

"Does the diary tell what really happened to Martine and her baby?" Buffy asked, half curious, half afraid.

"Yes, it does. I think it best if you read the account for yourself, oui. I can send the diary to you, if you like."

"If you don’t mind, we’d like to come to New Orleans, make it a working honeymoon?" Buffy joked.

"That is terrific. We can have a real down-home celebration. As I told you, we have awaited your arrival for many years. Finally, great-uncle Charles can rest in peace. We own a little bed and breakfast. We can assure your husband is protected from the sun’s rays, and supply him with blood."

Husband. Spike was going to be her husband. She liked that. "We wouldn’t want to put you out, Ms. Hemmings."

"Please, call me Françoise. I feel as if I know you, Buffy. It would be our honor to host you and your husband.”

Oh, shoot. I’m getting ready to cry. Buffy squeezed her eyes shut, trying to stem the tears. “Thank you, Françoise. That is very sweet of you.”

“Please keep safe until we meet. Au revoir."

“Goodbye.”


Spike threw the smoldering blanket aside as he closed the door behind him. Buffy was totally engrossed in her conversation, and didn't hear him. When she hung up, he touched Buffy's shoulder. Buffy whirled, socking him in the nose. "Oops, sorry, honey." Buffy hopped up, and placed a kiss on his battered nose.

"It's been so long since you've done that, luv. Kinda turned me on." Spike said, wiggling his eyebrows.

Buffy hung up the phone, and opened her arms for a hug. "I need a hug."

Spike gently lifted her off the floor, holding her as tight as her stomach would allow. "Who was that?" Spike walked them to the sofa, setting Buffy down gently on the sofa.

"Françoise Hemmings. She has the diary." She told him. Spike was starting to feel self-conscious. Buffy was staring at him strangely.

"Well, what's that look about? Did she say what was in the diary?" Spike asked, leaning across her legs.

"I may have to revise my opinion of Charles Jayme. It seems he really felt bad about Martine." Buffy said, rubbing Spike's shirt with her toe.

"We figured as much, Pet. So what's the rest of it?" Buffy squinted at him, wondering again how he could be so perceptive. It was creepy at times.

"He had his family on the watch for another slayer and vampire. Françoise told me they've been expecting us."

"Didn't figure on that, Pet. Well, I guess that does make sense. Is she going to send it to us?" Spike took Buffy's foot, and pressed his fingers into the sole.

"Umm, that's nice." Buffy sighed and scooted down, getting comfortable.

"Buff, is she going to send it to us?" Spike stopped massaging her foot, till she answered his question. He smiled when she stuck her tongue out at him.

"I told her we would come to New Orleans to get it. Don't you think New Orleans would be a nice place for a honeymoon. We could go to jazz clubs. Hit the casinos, do some real gambling." She gave Spike her version of the puppy dog look. It wasn't as good as Dawn's, but he couldn't resist it either.

"Whatever you want, Buffy." Buffy sat up, and grabbed his hand.

"No, this is about you and me. I'm not thinking singularly anymore. This is about us. You and me. Husband and wife. Do you want to go to New Orleans?" She said, clasping her hands behind his neck.

"Yes, I do. Happy?" He bent forward and bit her lip.

"Very." She laughed, and then proceeded to show him how happy she was.


Spike finished the entry in the journal. He hadn’t picked the book up since the shooting, trying his best to come to grips with almost losing his baby girl. He figured it was time to put it down on paper, so she would know how empty he felt at the thought of losing her and Buffy. The first ultrasound photo fell out from between the pages, and Spike smiled.

“You’ve grown quite a bit since this was taken, Bitty.” Spike picked up the frame that held the 3-D image of his daughter. Dr. Schulz had ordered it done after Buffy stabilized, and they’d been amazed at the detail they were able to see. They weren’t sure about the cheekbones just yet, but Bitty definitely had Buffy’s cute little nose. She was perfect, absolutely perfect. Spike kissed the photo, placing in back on the table.

“That is the cutest picture. I thought the first one was cute, but seeing her face, knowing what she’s going to look like, is so cool.” Dawn said, joining him on the bed.

“Yeah, it is.” Spike said wistfully. “What are you doing back so soon?” Spike scooted off the bed, placing the journal in the drawer.

“Nah, I have a paper to finish, so Xander dropped me off. He was heading over to the Magic Box, when we saw him.” Dawn bounded down the stairs to the kitchen. Time to stock up on brain food, then hit the books.

“So, how was the fitting?” Spike said slyly, watching Dawn pull mayonnaise and bread out of the fridge.

“Nice try, Spike. No information on the dress will be learned from me. I like living. You’ll see what she’s chosen when she steps out of the house. Until then, you’d better find something else to talk about.”

“By the way, have you decided to have a best man or not?” She asked, taking a bite.

“Yes and no. I’ve decided to have one, but I haven’t asked the person yet.” Spike was deliberately vague, wondering if she would catch on.

“Don’t you think you should get with the asking? The wedding is in 4 days.” Dawn poured a glass of milk, taking a long drink before wiping her mouth.

“You’re absolutely right.”

“Are you going to ask Xander or Clem?”

“No.” Spike grinned at the confused, irritated look on her face. That was an interesting combination, and yet, the Nib made it look easy.

“Please tell me you’re not asking Willy? Not that I don’t like Willy, but Buffy may pass out from shock. Is it Tiger?” Dawn’s eyes were wide with anticipation. She put the sandwich down, and stared at Spike.

“If I remember correctly, the best man should be the groom’s best friend. And my best friend is the person I go to when I have a problem or need advice. So, there’s only one person that fits that description, and that’s you.”

“Me?” Dawn squeaked, her eyes watering. “I’m your best friend.”

“Who else would it be?” Spike said, walking up to Dawn and gripping her arms lightly. “You’ve always been there for me, even when no one else wanted me around. It was you and me before Buffy and me. You’re my little sis, and I love you.”

“I love you too.” Spike squeezed Dawn tightly, both of them sobbing. “I’m so happy you’re going to be my brother. I told you we belonged together.” Dawn pulled back, wiping at her eyes.

“Oh, I’ve got so much to do. Gotta plan your bachelor party, write my toast for the reception. I need to make a list.” She said, grabbing a pad and pen and making a list.

“Have you gotten your suit yet?” Spike looked down guiltily.

“Oh, my god. Buffy is going to kill you. Okay, I’m going to go upstairs and work on my paper. We’ll leave at sundown and go to the mall to get you a suit. We can ask Giles or Xander to go with us. They would know the best shops to go through.” Her ponytail was waving like a tail behind her head. She spun around, and leapt in Spike’s arms.

“This is so cool.” She grinned. “Spike, just to let you know. You’re my best friend, too.” Spike chuckled as she literally hopped out of the room, happily exclaiming her new status.


“Anya is all of this necessary.” Giles exclaimed, his arms laden down with bags and bags of decoration.

Anya rolled her eyes, and checked her list. “Yes, they are. If I’m not going to have my dream wedding, then Buffy is. Now, we have to go by the florist and make sure they will be at the house first thing Saturday morning.”

Giles stared at the petite blond, amazed she was able to put aside her own hurt feelings and organize Buffy and Spike’s wedding. And organize it she had. There was left nothing for Buffy to do, but say ‘yea’ or ‘nay’ to her ideas, and rest. She had taken over, putting all her energies into making sure Buffy had everything she wanted. Anya told him it was the least she could do for Spike and Buffy. Spike, especially, since he was a demon like herself, and had shown her the most respect over the years. Buffy had, but Spike’s loyalty wasn’t split between the two. He hated Xander, and that was that. They were the outsiders, and now Spike was entering the club. Giles could have told her, she wasn’t an outsider. But that would have been naive on his part. At some point, they‘d all treated Spike and Anya like outsiders or kept them at arms‘ length. Spike and Anya had continued doing what needed to be done with very little acknowledgement or appreciation. Good lord, they‘d all been asses.
But he had to admit, he admired Anya’s drive when if came to their business. The Magic Box was profitable and that was due in large part to Anya’s ambition and her love of capitalism.

“Giles, what’s wrong?” Anya asked, concerned.

“Nothing. Why do you ask?”

“Oh, it’s nothing. You had this queer look on your face. I think it might have been a smile.” Anya joked.

“Very funny. I’ll have you know,” he said as they walked to the florist. “I have a sense of humor.” Giles lifted his head in the air, smirking.

“Yes, you have a sense of it, but do you actually experience humor.” Anya smiled back at him.

Is she flirting with me? Giles stopped and watched her walk jauntily ahead. No, she wouldn’t flirt with me. I’m not flirting with her. Am I? Giles hurried to catch up with her. Anya looked over at him and smiled.

“I’ll be right back.” Anya said, pushing the door open.

Giles stared at Anya, watching her talk with the head florist. “You’re an old fool, Rupert.”

“I couldn’t agree more.” Spike smirked.

“Spike, what are you doing here?” Giles asked somewhat guiltily.

“Nib and I are going monkey suit shopping. What’s up with you and the demon girl?” Spike asked smartly, watching Giles turn red.

“Nothing.” Giles said defensively. Spike merely smiled.

“Sure, Watcher. Don’t worry, I won’t tell.”

“There’s nothing to tell, Spike. We’re picking up the decorations and getting things finalized for your wedding. There’s absolutely nothing going on.” Giles protested, wanting to wipe the smirk off Spike’s face.

“Buffy used to deny things were happening between us too. Then, in one memorable moment, the dam burst, and well…” Spike deliberately let the sentence hang there. “Rupert, I like you somewhat, with you being a fellow Brit and all. I’m in a charitable mood, so I’ll tell you this. She wouldn’t turn you down if you asked her out.”

“Well, it took you long enough to ask her, Spike. Be glad I think ahead. I’ve already order her a special flower benefiting her status.” Anya informed him as she walked out of the store.

Spike bowed mockingly.

“That’s terrific news. You couldn’t have chosen better.” Giles said proudly.

“Well, we’ve got to be going. Nib has a paper to finish before bed. See you later, Giles.”

“Spike, I finished...” Spike arched his brow towards the other couple, and Dawn smiled. “Okay, we’re outta here. See ya at home, Giles.”

Anya and Giles watched the two walk away.

“They’re cute together. Who would have thought they’d be best friends?” Anya commented, relieving Giles of some of the bags.

Giles took a final look at the twosome, turning back to Anya. “It’s Sunnydale, Anya. I’ve become quite use to the unexpected pairings around here.”


Buffy closed the photo album, running her hand lovingly over its cover. She couldn’t believe her mother had kept her wedding album, but she was glad she did. Buffy knew it was a sign that her mother was giving her blessing to her marriage to Spike. The book didn’t just contain photos and mementos from the wedding. It also contained love letters and notes that her father had sent her mother during their courtship. The book was a glimpse at two people who had been very much in love with each other, before the pressures of marriage and parenthood had torn them apart.

“Buffy, whatever are you looking at?” Giles asked as he walked into the room. Buffy dropped the book, some of the photos scattering on the floor.

“Oh, Giles. I didn’t even see you.” Buffy stammered.

Giles bent to retrieve the pictures, taking a moment to look at them. “Your mother was a beautiful bride.” He said, handing the photos back to her.

“She was, wasn’t she? My dad looks so young. I had nearly forgotten how nice his smile could be.” Buffy said wistfully.

“Buffy, I can try and find him if you want him to walk you down the aisle.” Giles said, though it was the last thing he wanted to do. Hank Summers was a bastard, who didn’t deserve to have two wonderful daughters.

“Giles, I love you. You’re my father. The only thing Hank Summers gave me was his genetic code, everything else I’ve gotten from you. You’ve taught me to be the young woman I am now.” Buffy squeezed Giles’ hand. “I couldn’t have chosen a better father.”

Giles looked away, no wanting Buffy to see the tears in his eyes. “I couldn’t have chosen a better daughter. It would be my honor to give you away.”

“Oh, Giles.” Buffy pulled him into a hug, crying softly.

“Bloody hell, what did you do to her?” Spike yelled from the kitchen.

Both Buffy and Giles wiped haphazardly at the tears. “We were having a father-daughter moment, Spike. You know like the ones you have with Bitty when you think I’m asleep.” Buffy puckered her lips and blew him a kiss.

“Thanks, Summers.” He shook his head at her attempt to banish his Big Bad image. “I’ve got a rep to maintain.”

“Spike, you are about as evil as a marshmellow.” Giles told him, standing up to leave. “I’m heading to the Magic Box. Anya and I have to go over the books. Oh, joy. I’ll see the two of you later.” Giles patted Spike on the back as he passed him.

“If I had known this album would upset you, I never would have brought it up from the basement.” Spike told her, as he took the album from her and placed it on the coffee table.

“It didn’t upset me. It made me think.” Buffy said, grabbing Spike’s face and staring at him intently.

“Am I going to like the direction this conversation is heading?” Spike said warily.

“Yes, I just want a promise that we’ll talk if things get rocky between us. When my parents got divorced, I remember a lot of fights, but no talking. I don’t ever remember them sitting down with each other, talking, laughing. All I remember were the arguments. I don’t want us to ever come to that.”

Spike kissed her lightly on the forehead. “We won’t, luv.”

“Spike, I’m new to this open relationship thing. I tend to keep things inside, you know that. If I clam up or shut down, don’t hesitate to annoy me till I start talking. Promise me?” She said. He would promise her the moon if it would make that frown go away.

“You’re giving me permission to annoy you. Can I get that in writing?” Spike teased. Buffy nodded tearfully, wrapping her arms around Spike’s neck.

“I love you. I’m scared that’s all.”

“And you don’t think I’m not. When have you ever heard of a vampire-husband, it’s just not done, Pet?” Buffy giggled.

“So is that what you want the priestess to say? I, now pronounce you vampire-husband and slayer-wife.” Her laugh was infectious, and Spike squeezed her tighter as they fell back on the sofa giggling.


“Oh, Buffy, it’s beautiful.” Anya said, dabbing her eyes. Buffy was having her final fitting before the wedding tomorrow night.

“Really, you don’t think I look fat, do you?” Buffy asked nervously, smoothing the fabric down.

“Are you kidding, Buffy? You can barely tell you’re pregnant.” Tara commented.

“Yeah, Buffy. That dress looks fantastic on you.” Dawn told her, walking around her.

“Ms. Celene, I can’t believe you were able to get it finished in time.” Willow told the little old lady standing behind Buffy admiring her work.

“Well, Buffy makes my job easy. They are right, my dear. The dress hides your stomach without trying to.” Ms. Celene moved around to face Buffy, and bent to check the hem again. Satisfied with the length, she smiled up at Buffy. “You can take it off, Buffy. I’ll have it delivered to your house around noon. That’ll give it enough time to drop before the ceremony.”

Dawn grabbed the train, while Buffy grabbed the hem, and carefully stepped down off the pedestal.

“Anya, are you going to be okay?” Tara asked, as Anya continued to wipe tears from her eyes.

“Oh, yes. I’ll be alright. I’m just a little emotional. Buffy is going to be a beautiful bride, and I will stand by her side and celebrate her love for Spike.” Anya sniffled, and dropped the tissue in the trash.

“I still can’t believe tomorrow’s the wedding. Two weeks ago, we weren’t sure Buffy would survive her injuries, and here she is, trying on her wedding dress. The goddess is definitely looking out for those two.” Willow commented. To be honest, she was a bit emotional herself. Willow couldn’t remember a time when she’d seen Buffy so happy, so content.

“Alright, ladies. So what exactly do you have planned for my bachelorette party? It’d better be good, since I won’t be seeing Spike until tomorrow night. I’m going to need something to distract me from missing him.” Buffy grinned cheekily.

“Well, since we have Dawn, we had to ixnay the stripper.” Tara told Buffy, laughing at the look on Dawn’s face. Was that disappointment? Too bad.

“I really wanted the stripper, Buffy.” Anya told Buffy, nodding her head to emphasize her position.

“Guys,” Buffy laughed. “I appreciate the offer, but I really don’t want a brassed off vampire busting in on my party tonight.” Dawn giggled, imagining the scene of a vamped-out Spike stalking an unsuspecting stripper man. It might be worth it for the entertainment value.

“We figured as much. So, we settled for pigging-out on pizza and a viewing of Matthew McConaghey and Brad Pitt movies.”

“Two blondes at my disposal, I like it. Thanks, guys.” Buffy said, stretching her arms for a group hug.


Spike had a look of disbelief on his face. “You can’t be serious.” He said to Giles, who was quite annoyed with the blond vamp.

“I am. I don’t know what he has planned, but he did this all on his own. You will be appreciative, for Buffy’s sake.” When Xander had told him of his plans, Giles had the same reaction as Spike, except there was a lot more laughter.

“Harris, barely tolerates me, and he’s planned a bachelor party. Probably more like a stake-the-vamp party.” Spike smirked, and settled back in his chair, refusing to bulge.

“Look, Spike, I am skeptical too, but Xander has been a lot better since the shooting. He’s trying. If I have to go, you do too.” Giles said, firmly, his tone brooking no argument.

“Watcher, I’m a demon. I have demon friends. I don’t want to spend my evening with the whelp and his construction buddies.” Spike whined, but knew he was going. Buffy would be very upset with him, and he didn’t plan on doing anything to upset his wife. His wife. He liked the sound of that.

“Spike, have you ever considered the fact, Xander might have invited those few demons you are friends with?” Spike gave him a look that said he hadn’t.

“Fine, Rup, but I reserve the right to bolt if this party puts me to sleep.”

“I may join you.” Giles said, sighing.


Willy had initially balked when Xander had approached him about hosting Spike’s bachelor party. It was only when Xander flashed some money and mentioned the stripper had Willy given in, even offering to throw in a couple of rounds of drinks. Xander hadn’t known which demons to invite, so he left that up to Clem to put the word out to Spike’s demon friends. There weren’t many. It was still a source of amusement among Sunnydale’s demons that the very vampire everyone expected to kill the Slayer was actually marrying her. They also knew about the baby, but seeing as they weren’t trying to get killed, they kept their distance.

Xander hoped Giles was able to convince Spike to come. He knew Spike didn’t exactly consider him a friend, and the feeling was mutual, but they did love the same woman.

“Xander, where do you want the snacks?” Clem asked, holding a tray filled with bowls of potato chips, cheetos, pretzels, spicy wings.

”Wherever you want. Just leave the door clear. The stripper is supposed to come around back, so she doesn’t have to run a gauntlet out front.”

“Okay.” Clem said, stuffing a floppy handful of chips in his mouth. Xander’s lip curled, and he had to remember to get his own bowl of snacks.

Xander hit the play button on the CD player and cringed at the music blasting out of it. Spike’s music. Dawn had been very specific when she gave her opinion on what music should be played. This was Spike’s party and he should be happy. Dawn. Xander shook his head. Ever since, Spike asked her to be his best person, she’d been the bossy best person ever known. It had been her idea to have Xander throw Spike this party. She thought it might be a nice way of bridging the gap between the two. She told him no stripper, concerned Buffy would scalp someone, but hey, Spike may have been a vamp, but he was a man too. Xander called the agency that had sent a stripper to his, and gotten a girl who was well aware of the demon population, and didn’t mind dancing for them.

Xander checked his watch again. Spike would be arriving any minute. The door opened and in walked Spike’s poker-playing buddies. Xander saw Tiger and his cronies come in as well. Willy pointed to the back room.

“Hello, Xander, isn’t it?”

Xander nodded, noticing the fishy smell of Tiger’s breath.

“Is the guest of honor here yet?”

“No, we’re expecting him any minute.”

“Good, good. Didn’t want to miss saying surprise.” He patted Xander on the back with a fin, and went to get a drink. The two vampires with gave Xander the once over, deciding he wasn’t worth the effort and went to get a blood and tonic.


“Spike, I wanted to talk to you before tomorrow. I know you’re going to be busy getting dressed and everything.” Spike spared him a glance, before returning his gaze to the road.

“Yeah.”

“Well, I wanted to thank you for loving Buffy and Dawn. They haven’t had a man in their lives who’s stayed. Their father pretends they don’t exist until it’s time to send a check. Buffy’s previous boyfriends weren’t up to the task of loving her. You are.”

Spike flexed his hand over the steering wheel, not sure what to say. “Thanks, Rup. I’m the one that should be thanking you. You could have staked me when you found out I was hav… uh.. in love with Buffy.”

“Yes, well, I could have, but that wouldn’t have helped Buffy. She was already in love with you.” Giles turned to look at Spike.

“I know this isn’t a normal situation for a vampire, so if you need to talk, I’m here.”

Spike grinned. “Uh, thanks, Rupert. I just want to be a good husband and father.”

“You already are. You’ve taken care of Buffy and Dawn since Joyce’s death. You’ve been everything to them in one form or another. Keep doing that and you’ll be fine. But don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it. We’re all one big family, and you’re a part of it.” Giles grinned affectionately at him.

“Thanks, Rupert.” Spike pulled into a space in front of Willy’s. “Are you ready for this?”

“God, no, but we have to go.”


Spike laughed at the joke Clem was messing up terribly. He’d already revealed the punch line, but no one had the heart to tell him. Well, no one here really had a working heart, but still didn’t want to hurt his feelings. Everyone loved Clem.

He had to admit, he was having fun. This in no way compared to movie night with his girls, but it was to hang with the guys. Tiger had even given him a break on his usual fencing fee. Instead of 30%, he only took 29% from the last batch, telling Spike to splurge on something nice for Buffy. He also gave him a shark tooth necklace for Dawn, saying he wished she’d been able to come tonight.

Spike sipped his Tequila, watching Xander try to fit in with the demons. He knew the whelp’s feelings about demons, but if he wanted to be in Anya and Buffy’s lives he’d better get used to them. There was a knock at the door. Huff, the Welok demon used his x-ray and whistled loudly. “It’s the stripper!” He said excitedly. Xander opened the door, and she walked in.

Spike spit his drink out. “Tarantula!”

“Spike, you’re getting married? Since when?” Giles and Xander patted themselves down for stakes. Even Clem looked at him like he was guilty.

“I am not cheating on Buffy! She was my date for the wedding.” Clem stared at her, and the light bulb went off.

“Oh, yeah. I remember you. How ya doing? Cheese doodle?”


Buffy couldn’t sleep, be it from excitement about tomorrow or the fact that Spike wasn’t here. The bed felt empty without him. To hell with tradition, she thought, getting up to put her sweats on. She’d just sneak over to his crypt and come back in the morning before the house woke up. She pulled her jacket on, grabbing a hat to hide her hair.

He was a vampire. He was a supernatural being. There was no way he was going to let some stupid wives’ tale keep him from being with his woman. They’d already spent too many nights apart. So, here he stood underneath his favorite tree, trying to rationalize his decision.

“She probably put the disinvite spell on to keep me out.” Spike pulled himself up onto the branch, steadying himself for the jump to the windowsill. One. Two. Three. He landed softly and crept up to window, only to be confronted with the view of a shapely leg coming out of it.

He sat down and waited till she was completely out. He didn’t want to startle her or they’d both end up on the lawn. “Great minds think alike, luv.”

Buffy smiled, keeping her back to him. “Yes, they do. Guess you were coming to see me, huh?”

“No, actually, I was going to stop in, talk to Dawn, and leave. Seeing as I’m not supposed to see my bride before the wedding.” Spike reached out and placed his hands around Buffy’s waist, steadying her as she sat down.

“You’re not supposed to see my face, but they didn’t say anything about my backside.” Bufy giggled, wrapping her arms around his.

“Right you are, sweet. Right you are.” They stared at the stars, holding each other close.

“We’re getting married tomorrow.”

“You know I wondered what that party was all about.”

“Speaking of your party, did you have a good time?” Buffy rubbed his hands, softly, but Spike knew if he said he had a blast, she might break his fingers, again.

“It wasn’t what I was expecting from Harris.” He said, deliberately vague. “And that’s all I’m going to say. Since I’m marrying you tomorrow, I feel a sort of solidarity with the male Scoobies. We have to stick up for each other.”

Buffy snorted unladylike. “Yeah, sure you do, but I won’t press. I can’t really talk about my party either. Spike’s arms immediately tighten around her.

“You weren’t supposed to have a stripper. That’s what Dawn told me.”

“Oh, really. Well, I guess your little spy didn’t have enough time to warn you about the change in plans.” Buffy wished she could see his face. He was so predictable. Jealous. As if any man could compare to him.

“You’re pulling my chain, aren’t you?” Spike bent down and gave her a wet, sloppy kiss on the cheek. It had Buffy giggling uncontrollably.

“The only man I want to dance naked for me, is you.” Buffy reached up, her hand stroking Spike’s cheek. Buffy yawned, and Spike shook his head reproachfully.

“It’s past your bedtime, luv. Up you go.” He stood up, helping Buffy to stand. She stepped through the window, her hand grasping his tightly.

“It’s past our bedtime. I’m not going to bed without you.” He heard her say through the open window.

“Luv, I know tradition is important to you.” He said, though the notion of sleeping without her was what spurred him here in the first place.

“Hold on.” She said, and he heard her rummaging around in her drawers. “Here, put this on.” She stuck a scarf through the window. Spike’s brow arched. “We’re not playing that game, Spike.”

Spike laughed. She definitely knew where his mind was. They’d had a lot of fun with her scarves a couple of weeks ago. Spike tied the scarf around his eyes, and blindly reached out for the sill. Buffy grasped his hand and guided him inside.

She undressed him, gazing appreciatively as each piece of clothing was removed. When he was naked, she led him to the bed, and Spike laid back with his hands behind his head, waiting till he felt the bed shift with her weight. Buffy sat on her knees, shaking her head at the Cheshire cat grin on Spike’s face.

“We’re not having sex, so you can get that thought out of your head, right now.”

Spike pouted. Buffy couldn’t resist taking his lip between hers and sucking on it. “I love you.”

“I love you, Pet. And I love Dawn and Bitty. I’ll even admit to having warm fuzzies for the witches, Anya, and Rupert.”

“What about Xander?” Buffy asked, wrapping her arm around his chest.

“He’s not a bad bloke for an idiot.”

“Fair enough.” Buffy sighed, stroking his chest as she drifted off to sleep. Spike lifted the blindfold, his eyes full of love for her. He stroked her back, thinking himself the luckiest guy in the world. Dawn listened at the door till she was sure they were asleep. Leave it to them to not stick with tradition. She tiptoed over to Spike’s side of the bed, setting the alarm clock.

“Thanks, Nib.“ Spike winked at her, tightening his arms around Buffy.


Buffy rolled over, her hand searching the bed for Spike. She squinted at the clock, noticing the time.
“It’s my wedding day.” She said, throwing the sheets back, running around the room like a kid on Christmas Day. Buffy stopped in front of the picture of Joyce, her hand reaching out to caress the photo.

“It’s my big day, Mom, and I miss you so much. I hope I can do this. I know it’s a lot of hard work. If you could, every now and then, stop by and check on us. I love you, Mommy.” Buffy kissed her fingers and pressed them to the photo. She pulled her robe on, and headed downstairs to the kitchen. Dawn, Anya, Willow, and Tara were busily making breakfast, chattering away.

“Morning.” Buffy said, nearly bouncing in to the room.

“Hey, sleepyhead. We thought you were going to sleep your wedding day away.” Dawn said, coming over and hugging her. “Did you and Spike sleep well last night?” She whispered in Buffy’s ear.

Buffy’s eyes bulged, and the sisters shared a private smile. “Yes, we did. Thank you for getting him out of here before the commandant saw him.” She said, gesturing to Anya.

“So, Buffy, how does it feel? You’re getting married today.” Anya asked. “I know I was excited on mine.”

They all gave her sad smiles, but she dismissed them. “Oh, stop it, I’m fine. It happened. It hurt. This day is totally different. Buffy and Spike want to get married. This is a good day, and I plan on enjoying it just like the rest of you. Especially, since I planned it.”

“Thank you, Anya. I don’t know if we could have pulled this off without you.” Buffy said, her voice breaking.

“Oh, oh, no crying. Your face will be blotchy.” Anya said, handing Buffy a wet paper towel.

“I’m sorry. I’m just so happy. You guys are terrific.” Willow and Tara smiled at the display of affection from Buffy.

“Buffy, we have something for you. Now, sit down, and eat your breakfast. We’ll be right back.” Tara and Dawn went into the living room, and came back with a gift-wrapped box.

“This is from all of us. Hope you like it.” Willow said, handing the box to Buffy. Buffy pulled the ribbon off, setting it aside. There hadn’t been time for a bridal shower, so the girls decided to give Buffy one large gift.

Buffy pushed aside the tissue paper and gasped. Nestled within was a midnight blue negligee of the softest silk, Buffy lifted it out of the box by the spaghetti straps, turning it around to see the back, which dropped really low. Spike was going to flip when he saw her in it. Buffy’s grinned widened when she saw the matching pajamas.

“Those are for Spike.” Anya told her helpfully.

“I got his size the other day.” Dawn added.

“I can’t believe you did this.” Buffy said, her voice heavy with emotion.

Dawn came up behind Buffy and wrapped her up in a big hug. “You guys are worth it.” Buffy gripped her arm, her face flushed with unshed tears.

“I’ve got presents for you too.” Buffy hurried out of the room, only to return a minute later with the bag she’d hidden in the bureau last night.

“Okay, Spike and I couldn’t decide what would be the best gifts for you, because you’re all so different and so special in your own way. But here goes.” Buffy pulled a small gift box out. She lifted it and saw Anya’s name scribbled on the bottom.

“This is for you, Anya.” They watched as Anya literally tore the box in two, pulling out a black velvet box.

“It’s the infinity symbol. It means that no matter what happens in your life, you’ll always be a part of ours. This is our promise to you that our friendship will last as long as time itself.” Anya’s fingers trembled as she lifted the charm bracelet.

“Thank you, Buffy.” Anya gave Buffy a quick hug, and retreated to the sink to compose herself.

“Uh, Tara, this is yours.” Tara’s was a little bit bigger, and she took a lot longer to open hers. Dawn was hopping behind her back, trying to get her to go faster.

“Oh, Buffy. It’s amazing.” Tara lifted the crystal formation out of the box. When she touched it, it glowed brighter.

“It’s a serenity formation. When you touch it, it immediately reacts to your aura, and grants you peace. You already have a gentle soul so it’ll keep you centered. It’s silly, I know, but we thought of you when we saw it.” Buffy dropped her eyes, embarrassed at the simplistic explanation.

“No, Buffy, it’s not silly. I think you’re giving me too much credit. It’s perfect. Thank you.” Buffy squeezed Tara tightly. Both girls pulled away, brushing back tears.

“Two to go.” Buffy said, digging in the bag. “This is for you, Willow.” Buffy handed her a box the size of a book. Willow sat it down on the counter, and pulled the top off. She looked awestruck at the platinum necklace inside.

“Let me explain.” Buffy said, laughing at the look on Willow’s face. “After everything, we’ve been through this past year, I wanted to let you know you were my lifeline. Literally. I wouldn’t be here today if you hadn’t pulled that bullet out. You saved me. You saved my baby. There..” Her voice broke. “There aren’t words to thank you. So, that’s why we chose platinum. It’ll never break. It’s strong and resilient. Just like you, Will. You fought hard to regain your life, then took a huge risk to save mine. We love you, Red. And that last bit was from Spike.”

Willow’s face crumbled. She put her hands to her face and cried. Tara wrapped her arms around her lover, kissing her neck. Buffy felt Dawn’s hand slid into hers, and squeezed it.

“Now, for you. I saved the best for last.” Buffy kissed Dawn on the cheek. She handed the bag to Dawn, who reached inside and pulled the last box. She opened it, smiling at the package inside. She opened this package, and pulled out a smaller box. “That was Spike’s idea to torment you.”

Dawn smiled and plotted revenge. The final box was a ring box. Dawn opened it and pulled the gold band out.

“Read the inscription.” Buffy told her, her eyes smiling.

Dawn lifted the ring, and squinted. “Oh, Buffy.” Dawn fell into Buffy’s arms, the sisters smiling and crying.

“I love you, Dawnie. Spike loves you. Always.” Everyone was dabbing at their eyes, totally amazed and honored by the gifts Spike and Buffy chose for them. They all wondered about the inscription, but were afraid to ask.

“Oh, I’ll do it.” Anya said, her charm hanging from her wrist. “What does it say?”

“April 20, 2002. We became a family. Spike, Buffy, Dawn, and Bitty.” Buffy told them. Dawn was crying on her shoulder, soaking her robe.

Dawn slipped the ring on her ring finger, admiring the design. It was the same as Spike’s and Buffy’s wedding bands. “Thank you.” Buffy wiped Dawn’s tears with her fingers, smiling into the young girl’s eyes.

“Okay, we’d better stop this cry fest before we’re all too puffy for the pictures.” Buffy took a deep breath, blowing it out.

“I’m going to take this upstairs and pack it. It’s really lovely. Thank you.” Buffy grabbed her gift and ran upstairs to put it in her suitcase. When she left the room, the girls started crying and gushing over their gifts.


Spike couldn’t believe he’d agreed to wear a tie. He hadn’t worn one in over a hundred and twenty years, yet here he stood trying to remember how to tie on, all for a 20 minute ceremony to tell the woman he loved, he’d love her forever. He was so whipped.

“Spike, man, maybe you should have gone with something more traditional. “Nope. Buffy and I discussed this. She said I could wear a suit, as long as the duster and the boots stayed at home. What don’t I look good?” Spike said, turning around to face Clem.

“For a vampire, yeah, you look terrific. I guess I’m just nervous. This is such a big day for you, and you’re as calm as a Meborian before a ritual slaughter.”

“Well, that’s because of Buffy. I love her. She loves me. There is no chance of anyone we know disrupting this wedding. Peaches and the Captain are not in the picture. Dru is off somewhere licking her wounds or someone else‘s. The Watcher and the whelp have given their blessings somewhat. And I’ve got the best assurances everything will go off like clockwork from Anya. Now, that’s the best guarantee in town.” Spike knotted the tie, trying to straighten it blind.

Clem nodded from his seat in front of the TV. “Is this blasted thing straight?” Clem stood up, checking the tie from the right side to the left side. Spike craned his neck, hoping to avoid getting nicked by Clem’s claws.

“Perfect, but have Dawn check it before the ceremony. You ready to go.”

“Yep, let’s get this show on the road.” Spike grabbed his duster, then decided to leave it. He no longer needed it to prove who he was. He had Buffy and Dawn and Bitty to do that. He was going to be a husband, a father, and a brother, all with three little words.


Knock. Knock. “Buffy can I come in?” Giles asked.

“Hold on.” Giles heard giggling and rustling before the door was opened. He peered inside and stopped, stunned by the vision in front of him.

Buffy’s hair was piled high on her head, ringlets of curls framing her face. A tiara of crystal flowers adorned her hair, with the veil flowing down to her waist. The dress of white silk organza had a low, scooped neck, which stopped just above her bosom. From there, the waist was slightly fitted, and fell in a straight line to the raised hem. Her white beaded sandals were just barely visible.

“You’ve never been more lovely, my dear.” Giles commented when he finally found his voice. He raised his hand to her face, cupping it lightly. “I hope Spike allows me to walk you down the aisle when he gets a look at you.”

“He’d better. Giles, are you okay?” Buffy reached up and patted his eyes with her handkerchief.

“Yes, I just can’t believe this day is finally here. I’ve watched you grow from a scared young girl to this self-assured mother-to-be. You’ve always followed your own path, no matter what anyone else wanted you to do. I’m very proud of you.”

“Well, I had a lot of help getting here. I love you, Giles.” Buffy lifted up on her toes, and planted a soft kiss to his cheek.

Anya looked at the clock. “It’s time. Okay, stay up here, Buffy. I’m going to make sure Spike and the priestess are in place. We’ll see you in 10 minutes. Remember, don’t come out until you hear the music. Okay?”

“Thank you, Anya.” Buffy kissed her quickly, laughing as Anya bolted out the door and down the stairs.

“I feel I should say something to pump us up.” Giles told them.

“We can do a cheer. Something like ‘go team!’” Willow said, giggling at the horrified look on Giles’ face.

“Giles, Will was just kidding.” Tara hurried to tell him.

“No, we can do that if you like.” Giles stuck his hand out, and Buffy, Willow, and Tara piled their hands on top.

“Okay, on three. One. Two. Three.” Buffy shouted.

“Go Team!”


“Spike, hold still. Who did this?” Dawn griped.

“Clem. I was afraid to let him get too close to my neck.” Dawn shook her head in disgust. Dawn stepped back and admired her work. It had been her decision to have Spike’s tie match the bridesmaids’ dresses. The metallic blue emphasized the clear blue of his eyes.

“You’ve grown up so much. I can’t believe you’re the same skinny little girl I met all those years ago.”

“Well, technically, we didn’t meet until 2 years ago, but it’s been like 5. You came to the house with Buffy, after Kendra was killed. I thought your hair was cool.”

“You don’t now?” He said, hurt. She giggled and he stuck his tongue out at her.

Anya rushed up to them. “C’mon. It’s time to get into place.” Anya dragged him over to the arbor Xander had constructed earlier in the week. She placed him on the right, with Dawn next to him. The priestess who was going to perform the ceremony was started to light the candles, Buffy and Spike would use during the ceremony.

“Okay, Ingrid, are you ready?”

“Yes, Anya, we’re ready.”

Anya gave them the thumbs up, told them not to move, and rushed off to put the music on. The guests were situated on either side of the aisle. There weren’t many. Lorraine and Sofie sat on Buffy’s side. If Lorraine thought Clem’s skin was unusual, she didn’t say anything. Dr. Schulz brought her family. They sat on Spike’s side to balance things out. Tiger sat next to Willy and his baretender, Sam, discussing the drought in kittens around Sunnydale. Everyone was concerned Tiger’s appearance might be too unusual to explain away so Tara did a glamour spell. He looked pretty good, except for the Mohawk. Dawn invited Janice and Emily from school. Anya glanced over the scene one final time before opening the door to the kitchen. She hit play on the radio, and gestured for Willow and Tara to come out.

Tara exited the house, Anya followed her, then Willow. She smiled broadly at Xander who was videotaping the event. The processional stopped, and the wedding march began. The guests stood up, and a collective gasp was heard as Buffy stepped out onto the porch. Spike couldn’t tell you what happened after Buffy appeared. She consumed him. She was like a bright light, so pure and white, she blinded everything else in her path. He remembered locking eyes with her, and then she was there at his side. She smiled sweetly through her veil as Giles lifted it, and placed a kiss on her temple. Spike could do little more than gawk at her, and she laughed, happy to have finally made him speechless.


The priestess called on the goddess to bless their union, to bind them together through their family and friends, through their child. She impeached the heavens to protect and comfort them throughout their lives. She bored Spike to tears, but looking at Buffy in her wedding dress was worth it. She stared at him, a smile to her face, as if she could read his mind. When the priestess asked for the ring, and Dawn pretended to lose them, Spike nearly fainted. Buffy gripped his hand tightly to keep him from strangling Dawn on sight.

“Buffy and Spike have written their own vows. Buffy.”

Buffy looked down at their joined hands. When she looked up, her eyes were swimming in tears. “I love you. Three little words that terrified me for so long, especially when you’d say them. I couldn’t hide or pretend with you that they were just pretty little words with very little meaning. The truth was in your eyes. You loved me, and I couldn’t for the longest time accept that because I didn’t think anyone could love the real me, but see that where I sold you short. You’re not just any man. You’re the man who’s fought by my side, cared for me when I was weak, loved me when I was scared, took me without pretense.” She had to look down as the tears fell. “I didn’t realize you were my best friend until you were gone, and I was alone, surrounded by people. I didn’t realize you were the missing piece of my soul, that part I’ve searched for all my life. If we have a lifetime together, I’ll never have enough time to show you how much I love you. There aren’t words or deeds to accomplish that. So, all I have to offer is me, and a promise to never leave your side, to be your friend, your lover, your partner for all my days and thereafter.” Buffy slid Spike’s band on his hand before lifting it to her lips.

Spike sniffed back tears, and brushed her tears away. “Never heard you talk so much, luv.” Dawn and Ingrid giggled at the softly worded statement.

Spike just stared, soaking in all that was Buffy. Buffy looked at him queerly, wondering if he’d forgotten his vows. Then she smiled, seeing what he was feeling, the love. Spike cleared his throat, taking a deep breath.

“Pet, I’ve loved you from the beginning. You had me from that first night at the Bronze. You are this bright light that shined in on the dreariness that was my life, and forced me to see what I was missing, what I truly wanted. I’ve been searching all my life, since my Mum died, for my place in this world. Since meeting you, my life is so much richer for all the gifts you’ve given me. You let me in your world luv, and I wanted what you had. A mother, a sister, friends, a home. You’ve been my everything for so long, Pet. I don’t know how to exist without you. And now, we’ve been blessed with this child, this miracle, and I can’t help but think, life doesn’t get any better than this. But it does, because you love me. I will love you forever, Pet, and if there is a hereafter, I’ll love you there too.” Buffy nodded under her veil, her cheeks wet with her tears.

“I love you.” She whispered as Spike leaned in to place her ring on her finger.

“Love you.”

“Buffy and Spike have taken the vows to bind their lives to one another, to share their love throughout eternity. Under the watchful eyes of the goddess, with her blessings, I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride.”

“’Bout time.” Spike quipped, but he was smiling as he lifted Buffy’s veil. They cupped each other’s faces, smiling through the tears, only seeing the love and companionship. Their mouths fused, but not in a passionate kiss, nor in a possessive one. It was a sweet kiss that nearly overwhelmed the heart of every romantic in the group, and had everyone holding their breaths till it ended. When they finally parted, the crowd erupted with boisterous whoops and applause. Buffy and Spike reluctantly released each other’s hands to accept the congratulations and teary words of praise from their assembled friends. Dawn cried almost continuously, so happy to have what she’d worked so hard for. Giles and Xander shook Spike’s hand, and welcomed him officially into their little family. Willow and Tara held hands throughout, both thinking of a bonding ceremony for themselves sometime down the road. Anya held back, watching with pride the proceedings, until Buffy and Spike both approached her, thanking her for their perfect day. To which Anya replied it wasn’t over. They still had to take their pictures and cut the cake.

“Oh, don’t forget about the first dance and tossing the bouquet. I’m sure there is someone around here who wants to get married. It’s not me, so don’t throw it my way or Dawn’s, she’s too young to be thinking about that.” She hurried off, leaving the newly married couple alone for the first time since the night before.

“Mrs. Develin.” Spike said, kissing her nose.

“Mr. Develin.” Buffy grinned, hugging Spike tightly. “I do so love you.”

“Good to hear it, luv.”


“Okay, everyone gather around for Buffy and Spike’s first dance.” Anya shouted from the porch. Spike escorted Buffy out to the center of the yard, spinning her around for effect. Buffy had ditched the veil after they cut the cake, and it lay in a chair with Spike’s tie. She liked him better with his shirt open anyway.

Buffy stroked her fingers through his blonde curls as the opening strands of Etta James’ At Last filled the night.

At last
my love has come along
my lonely days over
and life is like a song

Spike laughed as Buffy whispered in his ear what she had planned for later.

Ooh At last
the skies above are blue
well my heart was wrapped up in clover
the night I looked at you

I found a dream
that I could speak to
a dream that I could call my own
I found a thrill
to press my cheek to
a thrill that I have never known

Giles held out his hand to Anya, who smiled happily as they swayed to the music.

well

You smile
you smile
oh and then the spell was cast
and here we are in heaven
for you are mine at last

Willow and Tara gazed into each other’s eyes, kissing lightly. Their eyes full of love and hope for their future.

I found a dream
that I could speak to
a dream that I
could call my own
I found a thrill
to press my cheek to
a thrill that I have never known

Xander twirled Dawn around, dipping her back dramatically. Much to the delight of her friends.

well

You smile
you smile
oh and then the spell was cast
and here we are in heaven
for you are mine at last

Buffy laid her head on Spike’s shoulder as their hands rested over their baby’s heart.

ooo yea
you are mine
you are mine
at last
at last
at last
at last

Next