Moving Forward
It was nine in the morning when Spike stood in front of Buffy's grave with Joy in his arms and her things all packed up in the bassinet. Spike would go back to his crypt to get his personal things later. He would also need to talk to Clem and a demon relator tonight about getting him a place. As much as he wanted to hide out in his bed with the covers over his head, he couldn't. He had a little girl he needed to look after and raise and he was not about to wallow in grief and self-pity at risk to her. He had to look forward. He had to move forward and try to give Joy the best life possible. He had no choice, but to look to the future.
"I know this is not what you wanted, none of this is. I'd take your place if I could Luv. I'd spend an eternity in the worst Hell if it meant you could live. That you could be the one raising this beautiful little Ducky. I won't let you down Luv. And I won't break my promise about protectin' the Bit. I'll do everythin' I can to give them a better life. A life worthy of you and your Mum." Spike looked down at Joy who was asleep in his arms. "We have to look to the future little Ducks no matter how painful it is right now. At least your Mum is finally at peace and can rest now. She's watchin' down on you with your Grandmum. We'll put up some pictures of them at the new house. That way you'll always know em."
Spike took in a slow deep breath before slowly letting it out. He turned his full attention back to the headstone. He couldn't believe this was happening and he didn't think he would ever get passed this pain in his heart. The woman he loves was dead and there was nothing he could do to change that. All he could do was hope he made her proud of him.
"Maybe in another life we'll meet again Luv. I'll always love you, nothin' is ever gonna change that." Spike bent down and placed his hand on the top of the stone. "Till next time Luv." Spike then leaned forward and placed a gentle kiss to the headstone before he pulled back and stood up.
He grabbed the bassinet and made his way through the cemetery to head over to Giles' place. Spike did have to admit he loved being back in the sunlight and feeling the warmth against his cool skin. This was a rare gift and Spike was going to make sure he did everything he could to have earned this gift. There was a whole list of everything that needed to be done before Spike and Joy would be able to have their own place. Spike also had to keep up on the patrols to make sure that the Hellmouth didn't get overthrown with demons. Spike didn't know if he was ready for any of this, but he didn't have a choice. He could either stand still or he could push forward and be there for his daughter and Dawn. Spike was hoping that Giles would be willing to have a conversation about a few things that they would now need to figure out. It wasn't just Joy's life they needed a plan for, but for Dawn as well.
Spike arrived at Giles' home and knocked on the door. He would have just barged in, but he was trying to be respectful and human. After a moment the door opened to reveal a more rested Giles. He gave Spike a small, warm smile as he spoke and stepped back to allow Spike to enter.
"Good morning. It would appear that the Powers have truly granted you with the gift of sunlight."
"Apparently. Should make life a little easier. You look rested. Been awhile since I've seen you this awake." Spike answered as he put the bassinet down in the living room.
"Yes, I was able to get a good night's rest. I um, I set the crib up in my guest room for her. There is also a small air mattress there for you as well. It's not much, but better than a couch."
"Preciate it. You want to hold her?" Spike asked not looking to keep Joy from anyone.
Giles agreed easily and Spike handed over the sleeping baby to Giles. Giles couldn't help, but smile down at her.
"How was last night? You seem to have healed quite a bit." Giles asked.
"Angel gave me some of his blood. Healed me right up. She was up every two hours to feed."
"How was Angel with her? Any problems?" Giles asked still not sure on what to make of Angel in this situation.
"He was fine. Family and all that. Vampires might not be much, but the old ones are very loyal to family. He'll be there if we need him. He also said he'd be by in a week to check in and to see the Ducks. He won't do nothin' and he signed my money over to me and got paperwork for this little one. Now I just need to find her a doc." Spike said as he sat down in the chair while Giles went over and sat on his couch.
"Yes she needs to be checked over. What will you say about her mother?"
"Figured it would be best to say she died while givin' birth. Keep it short and simple. You know any good docs? Maybe one that won't ask too many questions."
"I might be able to find one out. On the Hellmouth there are bound to be a few doctors that know better than to ask too many questions. I should be able to locate one for her. Buffy had no medical problems in her family. Do you know about yours?"
"Mum had consumption."
"Tuberculosis? That was quite common back then. It wouldn't be genetic. And your father?"
"Never knew him. It was always just Mum and me. No pictures of him or anyone else in the family. All we had was each other."
"Really? You never asked her about him or any other family member?" Giles asked very interested in that little fact.
"Course, but she would never talk about it. No one would in town. We had the family business from her father, her mum died when she was young. When her father died a few years before I was born it was taken over by a trusted advisor until I was old enough. It became taboo in our house for anyone to talk about anythin' regardin' my family."
"That is fascinating. What about birth records? Have you ever looked?"
"A couple decades ago I got curious again. Checked it out, but the father section was left as undisclosed. You're welcome to try. Over a century and I'd still like to know about any family that I had."
"I'd like to look into it. It's very odd, even back in that time, for a woman to be adamantly against releasing any information to a child about their father or family for that matter. I might not be able to find anything, but I'll look and see. It would be good to know if there may have been any genetic problems that could have been past down to Joy. We do not know how the Powers used your DNA for her. Just how much human DNA within you could still hold your family genetic makeup."
"Never had a problem growin' up, but I died at twenty-six. Couldn't hurt to find out and be prepared just in case. "
"Indeed."
"We got a few things we need to figure out. Things that the others aren't goin' to hold any interest in figurin'."
"You are probably right about that. Anything in particular you had in mind?"
"The Bit mostly. I gave Buffy my word that I would protect her until the end of the world. I don't ever go back on my word."
"Willow and Tara have been staying at the house with her, but I do not know what the plan is for them moving forward. I do know the bills for the house are rather large with the mortgage and utilities. Neither of them are working as they are in school, or will be. I suppose I could move in there as well, but I'm not sure that would be best either." It was clear in Giles' voice that he didn't know what to do about any of this that had gotten dropped on him.
"Maybe the Bit needs a change of scenery."
"You think we should sell the house." Giles easily stated, as he could see where Spike was taking this.
"I think Buffy died so the Bit and everyone could live. I don't think the Bit sleeping next to her dead sister and Mum's bedrooms is a good idea."
"She just lost her sister. It seems fast right now."
"I know, but I think there should be a conversation with her 'bout it. It might be good for the Bit to have a fresh start, clean slate. A new place with no memories, good or bad. In two months the witches are gonna go back to College and the Bit will be on her own most of the time. She needs structure and a stable home life for her to go back to doin' good in school and bein' happy one day. I don't think the witches can handle it or know what they are really gettin' themselves in for. It's not about the money. I can pay off the house easily enough. It's 'bout what the Bit deserves and needs to move forward. She's not comin' back Rupes, we can't let the Bit die with her." Spike said hoping that Giles would understand and agree with his point. He didn't want to move too quickly, but they couldn't let Dawn suffer in that house for long. It wouldn't be healthy for her.
Giles took in a slow deep breath as he looked down at Joy in his arms, still sound asleep. He knew Spike was right. They had to talk about this, because they were the oldest, they were the ones that would have to make the tough decisions and some of those tough decisions wouldn't be able to be put off.
"It might be beneficial for Dawn to be in a new home. I'm assuming you would like for her to be living with you."
"I think it might be the best fit. Bein' around Joy will help her move on and I'll be able to take care of her without life gettin' in the way. I don't see the point in havin' the house."
"How long do you keep a house after the person is gone? And you are right, I don't think anyone within the group is prepared to take on Dawn. Willow and Tara have been staying there as a short term solution. They still wish to be going to College again in the Fall. Selling the house feels very official. My Slayer will really be gone forever." Giles said with hurt all throughout his voice.
"She's not gone though mate. She's right there in your arms. She's in your heart and mind. She's not here for you to wrap your arms around, but that doesn't mean she'll never be with you. We just have to love her in a different way now. Keep her memory alive and do right by it." Spike said gently.
A tear ran down Giles' cheek but he quickly wiped it away as he cleared his throat. "You're right, we must keep her memory going and do the best we can for Dawn and this little one. We can talk to Dawn about this tonight after school. Realistically they would have had to move at some point. Buffy wouldn't have been able to afford living there for long, even if she could have managed to find a full-time job. I believe the Gallery is still open or closed for now, but there is still a lease on it."
"The paperwork for it will be at the house. I'll handle it and keep it goin'. It'll be good income for the girls later on in life."
"I mean no offense, but what experience and knowledge do you have about fine art?" Giles asked slightly skeptical.
"I have a Dual Master's Degree in English and Fine Art. You tell anyone and you'll live to regret it." Spike said in a deadly tone. He may have to start living like a human again, but he was not going to be giving up his bad boy reputation to go with it.
"I'm not entirely sure anyone would believe me. That means you come from the Upper Society if you went to University."
"The highest level. All stuffy, boring parties to go with it. Even then most didn't go to University, their families were rich and they had no need to pursue education. I wanted to, mostly cause I had no interest in the family business."
"Which was?"
"Trading, mostly materials for clothing or building. Real boring stuff, but at the age very profitable."
"Still is to this day for the right company. I do not know what the status of the Gallery is, will you be able to make it profitable if it is not?"
"With time. Just think it'd be good to have in the family for anyone down the line. It's not like I'm dyin' from old age anytime soon."
"Quite not. I will agree it would be good to have it still in the family and there should future generations need it. I don't know much about art, but I will help in any way that I can. I still have a great deal of connections to the higher society life that I'm sure I could convince to come to a showing or two."
"Preciate it. When you were doin' research on the Key, did you read about what would happen to it with Glory dead?"
"No. At the time we were more focused on trying to stop Glory and what would happen should the portal open. I didn't dig deeper, but now there is not much point in it. Why?"
"The Monks said she was made from the green energy right? Can't imagine that energy just disappeared when the portal closed. If it did, wouldn't the Niblet be gone too?" Spike asked, he didn't know all that much about mystic energy or complicated magic, but his mind knew common sense.
"Oh." Giles said and it was clear he hadn't thought that far into it. "Yes, you might be right about this. I'll have to do some research on it and I'll do it right away. It stands to reason that if the green energy is what created Dawn, with that energy gone, she should as well. Seeing as how she is still here, the energy must be inside of her still."
"Can't imagine that energy was only designed to open one specific portal."
"No it wouldn't have been. If she could open one portal, she could open all of them. If that is true and word got out, Glory will not be the only Hell God looking to tap into her power. There really is no telling what else Dawn could be capable of."
"You got enough research in those books?"
"I'm afraid I don't. Most of what we discovered was circled around Glory. The Key is so old the books with any helpful information pre-date the Council."
"What about the conven with the Monks? Could they have somethin'?"
"They were all killed, nothing was left of their temple. It may be impossible to track any information down. I might have to contact a local Coven, they may be able to see what Dawn's power is capable of doing."
"We need to keep this quiet from the Council. They could take the Bit away with some bullshit political reason."
"Agreed. Same as this little one. Thankfully they have no reason to come down here now that Buffy is no longer with us. Though, I would rather have the annoyance of the Council than my Slayer being gone. I'll research what I can and try to find other books."
"Anything before the Council would be part of the demon community. Demons aren't known for record keepin', but there are a few Clans that were responsible for historic information and prophecies. A few are still kickin' I'll reach out and see. We weren't prepared for Glory, I don't want to get caught off guard again."
"Agreed. We need to be ready for any potential danger. Anyone that could sense Dawn's energy or be looking now that Glory is gone."
"Potential danger speakin', has a Slayer ever had kids?"
"There was one, she had a son. Why the interest?" Giles asked a little surprised by the sudden change in topic.
"The Ducks is human, completely, but she was made by the Powers that Be from a Slayer and a Master Vampire. The Powers have thrown a lot of curveballs in their time."
"You think they could have given her extra strength or made her a Slayer." Giles asked as his mind tried to think it through.
"Don't know, just sayin' they could have given her any part of either of us. Vamps have never had a kid and no Slayer has ever had a daughter. The Powers could have tried to tip the scale on the side of good with her."
"Giving her the best of both worlds, the power of both Slayer and Vampire without the negatives. It's not something we would know about until she is older and starts to show a difference to that of a normal human. All we can do is monitor her and note any discrepancies. You may have a point though. Faith is the only Slayer bloodline carrier and with her in prison it is most likely she will die of old age before anyone is able to get to her. It could be sixty or eighty years before another Slayer is called. The Powers could have given this little one all of the Slayer powers to be an unofficial Slayer to protect the Hellmouth and the World until a new official Slayer can be called. It would certainly cut down the time until Faith is dead."
"Took the opportunity to stack the deck." Spike said with understanding in his voice.
"Quite. We need to monitor her and take note of any differences. We may need to find an Oracle to ask future questions to about her, but for now she's much too young to worry about any of that. Save the Oracles for when we truly need them. Dawn is the more pressing matter and I'll consult my books and go over everything that I have on the Key to see what we may have missed."
"I'll contact the demon community tonight about it. You able to watch her tonight?"
"Of course. I can every night while you are out patrolling."
"You stickin' around then. Not goin' back to Mary Ole?"
"No I am staying here. How did you know?"
"The person you considered to be your daughter died and with her death your purpose went with her. Only make sense that you'd want to get away from all the painful memories and try to go back to when your life made sense. She wouldn't have held it against you."
"Sometimes you can fool yourself into believing that leaving doesn't make you a coward, it makes you brave and strong. I would have been running away though from the pain. I'm not certain that Buffy would have been proud of me if I did. I won't let her down or her memory down. She would want me here for Joy and for Dawn. I owe her that much. They are my purpose now. They are her legacy and I will do everything within my power to make sure they achieve greatness."
"How long do you think it'll take for Red and the Whelp to come around to that?"
"I wish I knew. I'm hopeful that it won't be too long before they are able to accept who Joy is. I believe the loss of Buffy is effecting them a great deal and is making it difficult for them to see Joy as her daughter. How she came to be is not helping the situation. They didn't have nine months to adapt to her presence."
"Buffy was catholic, she would want the Ducks to be as well. She'd want Red and the Boy to be her Godparents. I'm tryin' to do right by her and respect what her wishes would have been. Don't know if they will go for it though."
"All you can do is ask and see. I'm surprised you would be willing to do that though for Joy and Buffy. A church is not a comfortable place for a vampire."
"I'm over a century old, I can handle uncomfortable places. It's what Buffy and her Mum would have wanted. They're not here, but I want them to be proud of her when they look down on her."
"You seem so certain that she is in Heaven." Giles said sadly.
"You don't? That Whistler guy said she was at peace and happy. She's up there in the clouds mate."
"Good." Giles said with a hitch to his voice. He took a moment and then cleared his voice before he spoke again. "All I've ever wanted for her is to have the life that she wanted, that she deserved. I had hoped that would have been an option when Faith arrived, take some of the burden off her shoulders. She wanted a family of her own one day, a job that she could be proud of and enjoy. Now she will never have the chance to figure out what that life would be. But this little one will have that chance. She will grow up with people who love her around her. And she will know, no limitations."
"Damn right she won't. The Slayer could have had any life she wanted. She just needed more time to figure out what it was that she wanted from life. The Ducks and the Bit will see the world. I'm gonna make sure of it."
"Dawn should see the world before she goes off to College. I am all for pursuit of education, but most young people nowadays are barely eighteen before they enter post secondary education. They have no idea what they want to do for the rest of their life or how to do any of it. Most just flunk out and drink themselves stupid. Taking a year or two off to find oneself can be very beneficial in the long run. It's a regret that I have for Buffy. She was always saving the world, but she never got to see it. I won't make that mistake again."
"Got lots of time to make up for some wrong doings." Spike said as he sat back on the chair and it was clear he was still exhausted.
"You look tired." Giles said as he observed Spike.
"Some of us are nocturnal." Spike said with a smirk back.
"Yes quite. Why don't you go and lay down for a little while. I can look after Joy."
"I'll be fine. Body will adjust after a while."
"Yes, but you are still healing from the fight and the fall. You do not need to worry about Joy, I have her. I'm not going to do a runner with her."
"I know you won't. Not lookin' to shrug off responsibilities though."
"And I can respect that, but it takes a village. You will be raising her and patrolling at night. If you are not taking proper care of yourself you will open yourself up to making mistakes on patrol and dying. You are not in this alone Spike. Get some rest. There is a lot to do tonight with speaking with Dawn and then you need to patrol and speak with the demon community. Take a few hours and sleep Spike. We will be just fine." Giles said with understanding in his voice.
Spike let out a sigh and he could feel how exhausted his body still was. He knew he couldn't do this on his own, that he would need to trust people to look after Joy while he was getting sleep or out patrolling. He just didn't want anyone to feel like he was pawning her off on someone. But Giles seemed to be willing and happy to look after Joy for him while he got some sleep. Spike gave a tired nod before he spoke as he stood up.
"Ppreciate it mate."
"It's no problem at all. Goodnight Spike."
Spike went over and kissed Joy's head before he headed off to the guest bedroom to get some sleep. Once the door closed Giles looked down at Joy still sleeping in his arms.
"You have a very interesting father little one. Should make for an interesting life. He is not who I would have picked for your mother, not by a long shot. But perhaps the Powers did get this one right. He will protect you with everything he has and he could give you a very good life. You will be the one that puts him on the right path and keeps him there. It's time for a new beginning, even if it's painful."
Giles stood up from the couch with Joy still in his arms and made his way over to the bookcase. He had some research to do and now was as good of a time as any.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Joyce and Buffy sat there on the couch watching the television. They had been keeping on eye on Dawn and Joy to make sure they were handling everything alright. Joyce had tears in her eyes when Spike was at Buffy's grave. It was clear that he was in a great deal of pain, but he was pushing forward for their daughter, for Dawn.
"He's trusting Rupert, that's a good sign. He's looking towards the future. That will help him to move on and to help Dawnie move on."
"Ya for now. I doubt it'll last long. Spike is soulless mom, there's only so long he'll be able to keep this up before he gets bored with it all." Buffy said, still not believing that Spike would be able to be good for very long. Not without looking for some kind of a reward for it all.
"He's not going anywhere. You are all about the soul, but I'd like to see Angel act like this even with his soul. We both know he wouldn't without one. Those two are complete opposites. He's stepping up to take care of your daughter and Dawnie. He in the very least deserves your gratitude and support." Joyce said with a slight lecture tone to her voice.
"Ya for now. At least Giles is helping."
"He is. And William wants to have Joy baptized. He's trying to make us proud Buffy, to make you proud. He knows he'll never see you again. He's not doing this to earn some points with you. He's doing it because she's his daughter too. He's trying to live up to your memory. It's sweet and romantic and what will keep him in line and make him a better man. Just you wait and see."
"But he's not a man." Buffy simply said.
"Isn't he?" Joyce said with a smile before she continued. "It's good that they are going to sell the house and keep the gallery. It was profitable when I was alive, I can't imagine it's gone down by much since then."
"Ya it is good. But."
"But what Sweetie?"
"I know it's just a house. I didn't even grow up in it, but losing it still sucks." Buffy said with a sad tone to her voice.
"I know, but remember Sweetie, it's just bricks and wood. A house is just a house until a family lives in it. They are going to make their own home. A place where they can create their own memories, good and bad. It's good for them all, especially Dawnie. I would have wanted you to do the same thing. Always move forward, never backwards."
"You really think he can do it? Give them a good life?"
"I think he'll give them a great life. I think he's going to show them the world. He's going to teach them how to drive, how to fight, how to stand up for themselves. He'll be there when they have their first broken heart. When they first fall in love. He'll be there to threaten any man that dares to hurt them. He'll walk them down the aisle and watch over all the chubby grandchildren until one day he dies protecting this family. I couldn't think of a better man than William for any of it. You'll see." Joyce said with a knowing smile.
"I don't know how you can have so much faith in him. But it's not like I can do anything about it. I guess all I can do is wait and see if he'll disappoint me or not."
"Well I'm not really sure that is the spirit, but alright." Joyce said with a chuckle.
"It's all I got right now."
"Fair enough. Hopefully Xander and Willow come to their senses and help out. It would be a shame for her to grow up without their love."
"I'm sure they will come around. They just need some time to adjust to everything and get their minds around it. They'll do the right thing." Buffy said with confidence in her friends.
"I hope so."
Joyce didn't want Spike to have to deal with any added drama than he was already going to be dealing with. It wasn't going to be easy having to deal with a newborn plus patrolling. He didn't need the added stress of having to deal with Xander and Willow causing him problems to go with it. Unfortunately, all Joyce could do was hope for the best and watch as it all plays out.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
It was just after four when Giles returned home with Dawn. Spike was sitting in the chair with Joy in his arms asleep once again. Spike had managed to get five hours of sleep before he woke up to Joy's cries. Once Spike had gotten her settled down again he started to read the one baby book that Giles had in the house. He knew the basics of babies, but it had been a long time since he had been around one and he had never taken care of one before. Dawn came into the house with a huge smile and immediately went over to Spike and Joy.
"How's my sweet little niece?"
"She's good Bit. You want her?"
"Like you even have to ask." Dawn said as she rolled her eyes and was already picking her up.
"How was school?" Spike asked.
"It's fine. And it's almost summer time so yay. What about you? Are you okay?"
"I'm fine Bit."
"Dawn, Spike has to patrol tonight so he will be able to walk you home later." Giles said as he sat down.
"That's cool. It's not like Spike can drive us with this little one just yet."
"Didn't bring my car. I should do that tonight."
"And you have no car seat." Dawn added.
"A what?" Spike asked confused.
"And infant car seat." Dawn said again.
"What the bloody hell is that?" Spike asked still confused.
"Seriously? It's a special car seat for a baby. They get strapped in. Man you have a lot to learn." Dawn said.
"They have special seats now? Bloody hell what happened to a Mum sticking her kid in her lap?" Spike said clearly surprised by this piece of information.
"It's illegal now actually. She has to be placed in a car seat designed for infants and they all have expiration dates on them." Giles said. He knew that Spike was going to have a little bit of trouble adapting to the way children are raised now compared to when he was human.
'You are going to need to take me shopping with you to make sure you get what she needs." Dawn said with a warm smile.
"Sprougs used to be in their Mum's arm while she was riding a horse in my days. And we all survived, most of us survived. Now there's car seats."
"They come attached to a stroller though so there is that." Dawn said.
"Stroller?" Spike asked Giles confused.
"Ah, carriage." Giles clarified.
"Hm." Spike said back.
"You are so old. Oh and speaking of old, you know you need a new car right?" Dawn said.
"You shut your mouth. There is nothin' wrong with my car." Spike instantly said.
"It's a deathtrap." Dawn argued back.
"It's a classic."
"It's still a deathtrap and not safe for her to be in. You need something practical now that you are a dad." Dawn said trying to reason with Spike.
"I just stole the bloody thing back."
"I'm not saying you have to get rid of it, but you should get something less of a classic and more safe for her. Car accidents happen you know."
"Bloody hell." Spike said and it was clear that he was thinking about it.
"I'm afraid Dawn may have a point. Your current car is slightly unsafe for an infant." Giles said sympathetically.
"I'll get it sorted. Bit, there is something we need to talk to you about." Spike said giving Dawn his full attention.
"Um okay. Nothing is wrong right?" Dawn asked with worry.
"No, no, nothing like that. We just need to discuss your living arrangements." Giles said trying to ease some of Dawn's fears.
"I thought I was living with Willow and Tara." Dawn said sounding confused.
"We wanted to talk to you bout you livin' with me and the Ducks." Spike said cutting to the chase.
"With you guys really? So you would move in and then Willow and Tara would go back to the dorms?" Dawn asked liking the idea of living with Spike and Joy.
"Not quite. We would sell the house and you would move in with Spike in his new place once he secures a home. Willow and Tara would then find their own apartment or move to the dorms." Giles answered.
"Sell the house? But what about Mom's things or Buffy's things?" Dawn asked sadly as the reality of everything was setting in.
"We can pack em up and move them with us or put em in storage for one day when you're ready to go through em." Spike said.
"Is this because of how expensive the house is?" Dawn asked.
"I have money Bit, that's not what it's about. We just think it would be best for you to have a fresh start. A place with no memories." Spike said trying to explain.
"It's just... they'll really be gone then. They won't be on some vacation and coming home soon. They'll be gone forever. It's so final." Dawn said sadly.
"I know Bit. But they wouldn't want you stuck in the past, waiting for them to walk through the door. That's not healthy and it's no way to live Nibblet." Spike said gently.
"Realistically, it would take a couple of months before the house was sold. There would be a chance for you to adjust to living with Spike and getting into a new routine. And like Spike said, you can always store your mother's and Buffy's things until you feel ready to go through them. If I thought this was a bad idea I would fight Spike on it, but I truly believe it will be good for you. You'll be around Joy more and Spike will be able to be there for you day and night." Giles said trying to get Dawn to see where they were coming from.
"It would be nice to have Joy around all the time. I could help you with her. I could babysit too." Dawn said sounding more enthused about the idea.
"Of course you can Bit. I'm gonna keep the Gallery goin' too so you'll be able to help out there for some pocket cash if you want." Spike said trying to get Dawn more into the whole idea.
"I could totally help with cleaning or serving drinks or something." Dawn said liking the idea of being responsible and helping Spike out with something more grown up.
"I know movin' is a huge difference, but it wouldn't be the end of the world to live with me would it?" Spike asked with a smirk.
"No it wouldn't be. I guess we could try it. Can I decorate my room?"
"Satanic symbols and everything." Spike joked back.
"I am so decorating Joy's room. You clearly can't be trusted." Dawn said back.
"Probably right bout that. So is that a yes?" Spike asked.
"It doesn't hurt to try right? It was bound to happen eventually. It's not like I can live in the house and go to college at the same time. Plus Willow and Tara haven't even moved anything into it, so I don't think they really wanna stay around long term."
"We can't speak for them, but I'm sure they are just trying to find a way to adjust to the changes as well. It will be good for you to be living with Spike and Joy. A fresh start." Giles said trying to make Dawn feel better.
"Ya, it might be fun. When do we get to go shopping?" Dawn asked Spike with a smile.
"Let me get a place first Nibblet." Spike said with a smile.
"How long will that take?" Dawn asked.
"Bout a week. Goin' to see someone tonight about seein' what's available. It'll be in the demon community area though."
"What does that mean?" Dawn asked.
"It means your neighbors will be demons or half-breeds, half-human half-demon. They are all good harmless demons. Safest part of the city actually." Spike answered.
"Well, that'll be different." Dawn said not really knowing what to say to any of that.
"Is that really wise to be living there?" Giles asked concerned for Dawn and Joy's safety.
"It's safe. They're all peaceful demons. I've known them all for a long time. Good demons. They'll both be protected at all times."
"I shall reserve judgement then." Giles said willing to give Spike the chance.
"So what happens tonight?" Dawn asked.
"Got some things to take care of to get us set up before a patrol." Spike answered.
"I shall begin dinner before Dawnie you need to head home. I suggest you get a start on your homework." Giles said as he stood up.
Giles made his way into the kitchen while Spike took Joy back so Dawn could start her homework. It was going to take some getting used to, but they would all adjust to their new life and the new routine with it. They were a family now and they would make it work.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Spike made his way to where he knew Clem would be. Spike wanted to see if Clem would be willing to live with him so Spike would have someone around to help out or keep an eye on Dawn. Spike knew that Clem was just couch surfing for right now so he was hopeful that he would be willing to live together. Once Spike had that answer then he was going to head to the real estate demon and see what was available immediately. Spike was looking for something specific that would give his family in the future a place to be. He was hoping it wouldn't take too much to fix up, but if the house was close to being livable then he could make it work. Spike walked into Willy's and saw Clem sitting down with three demons in one of the booths. Spike took a look around to make sure there weren't going to be any problems. Spike headed over to the booth and Clem gave Spike a friendly smile as he spoke
"Spike, buddy. How have you been?"
"We talk?" Spike asked not looking to talk about this around other demons.
"Ya, always." Clem got up and followed Spike over to an empty booth away from everyone. They sat down and Spike started.
"Bit of a story. You know about what happened recently?"
"Ya with that Hell God. Different rumours going around about if the Slayer is alive or not. Demon world has gone back down so no Hell God anymore."
"This has to stay between us."
"Always."
They had know each other for a long time so when Spike needed something to stay on the downlow, Clem had no problem with it at all.
"She's gone. Took the Bit's place and saved the world." Spike said with pain in his voice.
"Oh man, I'm so sorry Spike. I know how much you loved her." Clem said with sympathy in his voice.
"There's a rule apparently that the Powers that Be have for Slayers when they die. They grant their final wish or final thought. Buffy's was that she had a daughter with a man like me. Presto bango I now have a two day old daughter and can play outside in the sun."
"What? You, you have a kid? But that's great buddy. You still have a piece of the woman you love and a second chance." Clem said trying to get over the shock and go straight to supportive.
"That it is. I wanted to run somethin' by you. I know you're lookin' for a place. Thought maybe you'd like to stay with me."
"At your crypt?"
"Naw, I'm goin' to go speak about gettin' a place right after this. Somethin' for me, the Bit and the Ducks. Didn't know if you wanted to live with us. Be nice to have a mate around and I know you hate bein' alone."
"Ya, hey that sounds great. I haven't been able to lock a place in yet. Everything was always too dark or too bright. Plus I love kids. Hell I'm like a big kid myself. What are you thinking about rent price?"
"Don't worry bout it. Buyin' outright. Don't need your money got mine signed over from Angelus. Just lookin' to have a mate around, keep me from goin' insane, help with the kiddies on occasion. It's up to you mate."
"I love kids and I hate living alone. When do we move?"
"I'm hopin' within a week, two max."
"Awesome, I'll just stay crashing at the place I'm at until then. Let me know so I can help you move anything into it."
"Don't have much to move. Gonna half to get new furniture for the place once I know when I got one. You sure you're gonna be alright with two kids?" Spike didn't want Clem to feel like he was obligated to Spike for anything. He wouldn't hold it against Clem if he didn't want to be living with a human teenager and an infant.
"Don't bother me at all. You know I love people and I love kids. Plus, they're your family. I'm glad you asked me. It's going to be great." Clem said with a true smile that put Spike's concerns to bed.
"You're a good mate. I should know within the next day or two when I have a place. Hopefully it won't need any work."
"Lots of good places right now that are vacant. A good cleaning and a fresh coat of paint is all they need. Lonny has all of the listings now. Veronica moved to New York, said she was sick of having all of her clients being killed."
"I'll talk to him then. He still down where she was?"
"Yup office is still the same. He's open until about eight. He's totally human, except for the tail. He doesn't like to talk about it."
"Just lookin' for a house, not lookin' to get chatty, but thanks for the heads up."
Clem just gave a nod with understanding before Spike continued. "I should get outta here. Still gotta patrol later. Make sure I'm the only Big Bad around."
"Ok man. Be safe."
"You too. I'll check in once I got a place secured."
"Sounds great. I can't wait." Clem said with a huge smile as Spike got up and headed out of the bar.
Spike figured he would get the listings for the houses and then head over to a still open dealership and get himself a new and safe car for the little one. Afterwards he would go and do a quick patrol. He was hoping he wouldn't come across anyone too tough as his heart just wasn't in it tonight. He just wanted to be back at Giles' place with his beautiful daughter asleep in his arms. There was a lot that still needed to be done and Spike knew he had no choice, but to do it no matter how badly he was wishing he could be somewhere else.
Spike arrived at the realtor office and saw that the light was still on. Spike walked in to see a thin man sitting in one of the two desks in the place. Spike knew this man would be Lonny as there was no need for a secretary at this hour. It wasn't often busy within the demon world for the housing market, at least in Sunnydale anyways. Lonny turned as the door opened and gave Spike a warm, but cautious smile.
"Evenin' mate. Lookin' to buy a house." Spike said hoping that would ease Lonny's concerns some. Not that Spike could blame him. He didn't look like he could fight a paper bag and win.
Lonny brightened up with the news and immediately grabbed the listing book and went over to where the front counter was. Spike leaned against it as Lonny spoke.
"I'd be happy to help. Do you have any idea about price range and how big?"
"Price is no problem and I'm lookin' for big. I gotta pretty specific idea of what I want."
"That's no problem I'm sure we can find the perfect property for you. Can you tell me what you are interested in and then I can eliminate the homes that won't work."
"At least four bedrooms, basement, there needs to be an in-law attachment that is complete with kitchen and bathroom. I also need lots of land to build two or more separate smaller homes. Preferably closer to the outskirts of the town and community."
"Ok, I might have a few places that will fit what you need. Some will all be in different states that you can see and decide which one will be best for you." Lonny said as he flipped through the book and pulled out the proper listings that would accommodate Spike's needs. "Here is one, four bedrooms, three baths, it's on a five acre property located in the warehouse district."
"Pass. I got two human kiddies livin' with me. It can't be in a shady area. I need safe as kittens."
"In that case I would recommend one of these two properties. Both are in a good area. The first one is located right by Camperdown Park, seven point four acres of land that is all trees. So if you would like to build on it you would need to do a bit of work with the land. The house however, was built three years ago so it's completely finished with four bedrooms, three baths, there is an in-law suite located off the basement that is a one bedroom apartment. The second option is one of my favorites it's located right at the bottom of George Street right on the Pacific Ocean. Fifteen acres of land with wooden steps going down to the private beach. The house was built ten years ago so it's in need of some updates and love, but the bones are solid as is the roof, plumbing and electricity. It's all cosmetic work that would need to be done. Five bedrooms, a library, the master bedroom is two floors, there is a third floor loft, a full basement, four bathrooms, an in-law suite is built as it's own two bedroom apartment that is connected through a small hallway off the kitchen. There is it's own private entrance as well. The property has three cottages already built that are in rough shape, but again it's just cosmetics. They all have two bedrooms and one and a half bathrooms. The whole property is fenced off and there is a full deck that goes all around it and the bedrooms all have private balconies that overlook the water." Lonny said as he placed the information for both properties down in front of Spike.
"That second one, is it move in ready?"
"Completely. You could move in tomorrow if you wanted to."
"When can I see it?" Spike was really liking the idea of being close to the water and being able to see the sunrise and set everyday.
"There is a key lockbox so you can go by tonight if you wish to see it. I can give you the code for that."
"Price is one point five?" Spike asked as he looked over the information.
"It is. It's an estate sale that came in three years ago. I can speak with the owner if it's going to be a fast sale then I think he would be willing to come down to one million. He's had it for a long time and has been trying to get it off his hands. If you like it, just come back in and we can fill out all the paperwork. Have you been approved for a mortgage?"
"It's cash outright. You open till eight?"
"I am yes."
"I'll be back in by then to let ya know. What's the lockbox code?"
"4673 for that one, do you want the other one as well?"
"Couldn't hurt."
"7523. You can take those papers with you as well and if you have any questions come on back and I'll do my best to answer them for you."
"Ta mate." Spike said as he picked up the pieces of paper and headed out for the first location.
Spike figured he would go and see the one by the water first as it sounded the best to him. He liked the idea of being so close to the water and to have a private beach. It would be good for the girls and their future family. He wanted a place with lots of land that he could build on for future use or need. Spike didn't mind needing to do some cosmetic work inside or outside as long as all the basics were good in the house. Spike arrived at the house and was happy to see that it hadn't been vandalized or destroyed on the outside. The house had a great deal of windows from what he could see. It was a large house with a wrap around porch. It was in need of cleaning as the windows were filthy and so was the porch and siding, but that was an easy fix. The house wasn't leaning and the roof looked good from what Spike could see on the ground. He headed up to get the key so he could check out the inside before he would look around out back. Spike walked in and was immediately impressed. There in front of him was a dark wood staircase leading to the upper levels. The rest was all open and appeared to be in great condition. Even though the house was older it was still very well designed. The living room was off to his left and it spread out on the whole side. The back windows were all floor to ceiling all along the wall and you could see nothing, but water. The kitchen was all white with the dark hardwood floor that was all throughout the house. The cabinets would need a fresh coat of paint and some new hardware to fix them up. There was a large island in the middle with a cutting board countertop and sink. Both of the sinks were deep farm style sinks. The fridge and stove were very old and would need to be replaced, but that was easy enough to take care of. The place had clearly had some upgrades since it was built. Spike made his way up the stairs to check out each of the bedrooms. He could tell which one was the master bedroom as it held an electric fireplace in it. All of the bedrooms were huge with plenty of room for extra furniture. Spike had no idea what he would do with the second level of the master bedroom, but he knew he would be able to figure it out. Spike found the library and it was wall to wall of built in maple book shelves. He knew that he would be able to fill it with children books and books for Dawn. He could turn the second floor of his bedroom into a small library as well to keep his valuable books there. With five bedrooms Spike figured he would have two guest bedrooms just in case something happened.
Spike made his way up to the third floor and saw that the whole floor was as big as the rest of the house. Spike planned on turning this into a giant play room for Joy. Dawn could have the basement for her friends and her to hang out in. This room could be for Joy for when she was old enough. All of the walls were white, but Spike knew that Dawn would have some ideas about what to paint the place. Spike then decided to check out the in-law suite for Clem. He had no doubt that it would be just as nice as the rest of the house. The in-law suite was a simple two bedroom. It had a sunken living room by three steps, the kitchen was a decent size with granite counter tops and white cabinets. Spike knew that Clem would decorate any way he wants. It was a good base for him though and Spike liked that Clem would have his own entrance. Spike then made his way outside so he could check out the property. He stepped out and was immediately walking out to the beach, not five feet in front of him. The whole property was fenced off so it would ensure privacy. To the left it was fenced off roughly a hundred feet of where Spike was and Spike knew the fence went all around to the front of the house. To his right was three hundred more feet of private beach as well as the rest of the acreage for the property. Spike made his way over to where the three cottages were sitting. They weren't too close to each other and they were more like small houses than cottages. Spike went in and checked each one. They were in more of a rougher condition than the house and would need some work to get them upgraded, but that was something that Spike could do as he went along. He also had a lot of land where he could build more should he need them.
Spike was satisfied with the place and didn't see the point in going to the other house. Spike made his way back to the realtor's office to get all of the paperwork finished and pay for the house. With that done and Spike being told he could move in, in a week once everything was signed over to him, Spike then headed over to one of the car dealerships that were open later. He didn't want to have to get rid of his baby, but he knew he should be getting something safer and bigger for his new family. He would need something with trunk space for all of the things he would need to get for the house or to have around for Joy. After an hour of looking around and test driving Spike decided to get a new truck. It would give him enough space in the back for anything he would need to pick up, but also safe enough for Joy and Dawn to be in. With his new truck Spike headed for the first cemetery to start his patrol.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Spike was making his way through his fifth cemetery when he ran into someone he didn't expect to be seeing. Spike had already seen plenty of demons he knew, thankfully good, he also dusted twenty vamps so far tonight. It wasn't all bad he had been able to ask a fellow demon about those books he was looking for and with any luck something will be out there about the Key. Spike was shocked to see Xander in the cemetery walking around with a stake in his hand and clearly on the hunt for some poor vamp to beat the crap out of. Spike knew that everyone grieved in their own way, but he didn't think Buffy would be too happy to have Xander out here on his own. Spike let out a huff before he headed over to him. Spike didn't like Xander all that much. He was too judgemental, but Spike knew Buffy would want him in Joy's life and he would try his best to do what he could to make Buffy proud. Even if that was dealing with Xander.
"You shouldn't be out here on your own mate." Spike started.
Xander turned around and the anger on his face was clear to see.
"I'm not your mate."
"Just an expression. All the same, you shouldn't be out here. It's not safe."
"I can protect myself. Shouldn't you be off bothering some helpless female." Xander snapped.
"No I should be home lookin' after my daughter, but instead I'm out here tryin' to keep the humans of this town safe. Or did you forget that your best friend has a daughter in the world?" Spike asked calmly, he was trying his best not to get pissed off as that wouldn't help anything.
"That baby is not Buffy's daughter. I don't know what game the Powers are playing at, but Buffy would never want a child with a soulless creature like you."
"You really are an idiot. She wanted a daughter. She was dyin' her thoughts were scrambled. It doesn't change that she wanted a daughter and she got one. And now as her best mate you are turnin' your back on both of them because your pissed. What kind of man does that make you? You get to be pissed. You get to grieve any way you need to. Shit you don't even have to like me. Hell knows I can't stand you. But you don't get to ignore Buffy's daughter. You don't get to turn you back on the only part left of her in this world. You don't get to be an asshole to her." Spike said with strength in his voice.
"And we should just trust that this is what Buffy wanted? That this baby really is hers and not some mystical thing created like Dawn was?" Xander snapped back.
"The Bit isn't a thing, she's human. She is the one that Buffy died for. As her mate you should be the first one there defendin' what she left behind. Buffy deserves better than this. All of the Summers girls do. How she was made doesn't change that she is here and alive. If you hold her you'll see that she is Buffy's daughter. I'm gettin' her baptized. Buffy and her Mum would have wanted it. It should be you and Red as her Godparents. It's what Buffy would have wanted. It should be her two best mates. After everythin' you've been through don't piss on her grave like this. Be the man she always believed you to be. Even I know you're better than this mate." Spike said calmly before he went to keep walking on.
He was about ten steps ahead of Xander when Xander spoke, making Spike turn around to face him.
"What's her name?"
"Joyce Elizabeth Summers. We call her Joy for short. Just bought a house for her and the Bit. The Bit's goin' to be livin' with us. We move in a week. Think about the Godparent thing. She'd really want you to be there."
With that Spike turned and continued on. He didn't know what Xander was going to do, but at least he was informed and Spike tried. That's all that he really could do in this matter. It would be up to the rest of them how they wanted to act around Joy. All Spike could do was allow them to be there and hope that they would make Buffy proud. For now Spike had enough to focus on and to take care of.