Part 11
****That Evening****
Buffy is still with her friends at the school library researching and doing homework. Looking at the clock she realizes that the sun had been down for an hour. "Spike should be here soon" she thinks to herself calmly as she strokes her abdomen. Her attention is drawn to the library doors as Spike and much to her surprise Faith walk in together talking. "Hey Slayer" Spike greets upon seeing Buffy. "hey B. Spike's been telling me about the times you guys fought" Faith remarks "Oh so your hearing the fictionalized version" Buffy grins. Spike growls in response "Uh he..llo Spike. Faith its good that your here" Giles stammers nervously "Relax mates" Spike chuckles looking at the nervous Scooby Gang, "I won't hurt you' he remarks grinning. He grins slyly at Buffy, 'At least while the Slayer is still pregnant I won't" Buffy rolls her eyes in mock disgust. "Funny Spike" she chuckles, "So what did you do all day?" Buffy inquires Spike shrugs and leans against the checkout counter, "Slept, read, watched the telly, and Faith stopped by and hung out" "B you never told me that Spike was fun" Faith chastises the other Slayer Xander laughs, "Faith we never saw the fun side of Spike...when he was trying to kill US" Xander spat out in anger Spike growls at Xander his face morphing into his vampire face. "Shutup Scrappy" Giles speaks sharply to Xander, "Xander don't taunt Spike" "Why?" Xander demands, "Deadboy Jr. has tried to kill us time and time again and now we're supposed to trust him?" "Xander' Buffy snaps, 'Spike is here to help us. I trust him Xander. I know you don't but you trust me" "Xander I won't kill you. I promise on my unlife and Drusilla's" Spike remarks Hearing Spike swear on Drusilla's unlife Willow stutters, "Xander he swore on Drusilla's head. Spike would never make a promise like that on Drusilla's unlife unless he meant it" Xander thinks it over and begrudgingly agrees, "All right but if he tries to take a bite out of me I get to say I told you so" "Buffy I think it is time for you to head home." Giles suggests glancing at his watch. "Faith why don't you do a quick patrol. Oz can you take everyone home?" Giles asks. Faith nods and heads out. Oz agrees and the others gather their things. "Buffy call me" Willow calls as she follows the others out the door "Buffy go home and get some rest" Giles orders, "Spike try not to get into any trouble" Giles asks. Buffy nods and grabs her back pack. "See you tomorrow" Buffy calls as she and Spike head out the library. "Man it has been one long day" Buffy yawns as they walk out to Spike's DeSoto. Getting into the car she sighs, "And I'm still not done with my homework" Starting the car Spike asks, "What do you have to do, ducks?" As the car barrels out of the school parking lot Buffy answers, "I have to read Edgar Allan Poe's 'The Tell Tale Heart' and write a brief paper on the stories theme. I also have to read about the 1920s and Industrializational differences of England and the US. I hate writing papers I wish I didn't have to do the history reading. I mean come on I wasn't even alive then do I care about the differences in industry between England and the US?" It then dawns on her, "Spike?" she asks slyly "What pet?" he answers warily "You've been around a long time. You know about life in the 1920s plus your English" Buffy says hopefully "No way Slayer. I am not going to do homework. I didn't do it when I was mortal and I'm not going to do it now" Spike protests firmly as they pull into the driveway beside Joyces car. "Please Spike" Buffy begs as they head into the house "No way Slayer. I may have agreed to protect you but I never agreed to do your homework" Spike retorts. "Whats going on?" asks Joyce as the two enter the kitchen "Mom Spike won't help me with my homework" Buffy whines putting her bag down she sits at the counter. "And Spike why don't you want to help Buffy with her homework?" Joyce inquires Spike scowls, "Because Mum she's the bloody Slayer she can do it herself.' seeing the pleading look on Buffy's face Spike sighs, "All right Slayer I'll help you with your bloody homework" Spike agrees throwing his hands up in the air. The two once enemies head into the family room and sit on the couch. "Lets start with history" Spike says opening the history book. He proceeds to tell Buffy about what life was like in the 20s for the next hour. Buffy then asks questions and summarize what Spike had told her. "OK now the English" Spike announces, "Have you read the book?" he asks Buffy looks away sheepishly. "Um yeah" "Slayer" Spike growls warningly his eyes flashing "All right' admits Buffy, 'I haven't finished it. I have a chapter and a half left" Groaning Spike picks up the book, "Bloody hell' he groans, 'It'll be faster if I read it out loud to you" Spike says opening the book he begins to read. Spike finishes reading the chapter and a half in thirty minutes. Putting the book down he says, "All right Slayer do you...." he trails off when he realizes that the Slayer had fallen asleep next to him. He hears Joyces footsteps entering the room. "She asleep?" Joyce asks Spike nods, "She fell asleep as I was reading' Spike answers, 'Mum do you want me to take her up to her room?" Spike asks "Sure Spike.' Joyce says. As Spike picks Buffy up Joyce continues, 'Spike thanks for helping us out here. I know its hard for you...I mean you two are enemies and stuff." Spike shrugs, "Its OK. I kinda like the Slayer she has guts. She's annoying but she has guts" Spike remarks as he carries Buffy up to her room. Putting her on the bed he leaves Joyce to take care of Buffy and returns downstairs. Seeing the book, 'The Tell Tale Heart' Spike realizes that Buffy hadn't yet written her paper. Sighing Spike decides to write the paper for her. "I must be really bored to be doing this" For the next hour Spike writes Buffy's paper on the theme of 'The Tell Tale Heart' grumbling as he does. When he is done Joyce joins him in the living room. "Spike why are you writing Bufy's paper?" she asks sitting down Spike shrugs, "Don't know Mum. I guess I am bloody bored." Shaking her head Joyce replies, "Spike you are a big softy" "Am not" he denies hotly. Seeing the look of disbelief on Joyce's face he sighs, "All right, I am. Just don't tell anyone" Chuckling Joyce promises to keep the vampire's secret. "Spike I forgot to tell Buffy before she went to sleep, but I am leaving town tomorrow. I'm going to an art auction in San Diego, I'll be gone for two nights." Spike nods in acknowledgement, "Sure Mum. I'll watch the Slayer. I'll try and keep her out of trouble" "Good. I want both of you to get along I don't want to come home to find the house ashes.' she turns around and heads towards the stairs. Stopping she remembers to that she needed to tell Spike something else. "Also Spike I need a favor" Joyce asks "What Mum?" Spike asks "Tomorrow evening at 6 Buffy has a doctors appointment. Normally Mr. Giles or I would go with her. Mr. Giles has a meeting at school. I was wondering if you could go with her" Joyce requests Spike groans inaudibly, "Sure Mum. I'll take the Slayer to her appointment." "She hates going to the doctor Spike. You have my permission to force her to go. She'll say anything to get out of having to go. Don't believe her though." "OK Mum. Where is the doc's office?" Spike asks "She's a friend of Mr. Giles who knows about Buffy being the Slayer. Her office is on Pine and 5th" "I'll get her there' Spike promises, 'We might be late because the sun will barely be down but she'll be there" "Thank you Spike. I really appreciate it" Joyce remarks starting up the stairs Staring after the Slayer's mother Spike groans in disbelief at what just happened. "I need a smoke,' he groans. Getting up he heads to the back yard for a smoke. As he lights up his cell phone rings. Pressing the talk button he growls, "Hello Peaches" "So Spike how did it go?" Angel inquires on the other end "Fine' Spike answers taking a drag, 'The Slayer went to school. I watched the telly. Picked the Slayer up after school and helped her with her homework. She's asleep now" "You two spent time together without killing each other?" Angel asks in disbelief "Yeah Peaches. Both of us are still alive' Spike snaps, 'After this weekend who knows if we will be alive" Spike groans Hearing that Angel demands, "what do you mean?" Spike takes a drag before answering, "The Slayer's Mum is going away for a few days. She asked me to babysit the Slayer" Stunned Angel asks, "Joyce? Joyce is leaving you to watch Buffy?!" Angel growls Chuckling at the sound of his sire growling in anger Spike remarks, "Don't worry Peaches. The Slayer will be fine. I won't let anything happen to her or the midgets. After all they are my brother and sister" he laughs "You better take care of them Spike. Otherwise I will stake you" Angel growls warningly "I will take care of them' Spike promises. 'You know Poof you might think of calling the Slayer tomorrow night" Spike suggests, 'She wants to hear from you mate. She misses you" "I miss her too' Angel remarks his voice sad. 'Maybe I will call her. Look Spike I'll talk with you later" Angel says hanging up. "Bloody fool' Spike mutters at his phone as he hangs up. Spike stabs out his cigarette then glances at the house and sees that the lights are all out. Going back inside he writes the Summers women a quick note and grabs the house keys. Closing the backdoor he locks it and walks down the street. Heading towards the cemetary to see if he can find any action he comes across Faith fighting a fledgling. Spike watches the dark haired Slayer fight. When she finishes he applauds enthusiastically. "Brava Slayer" Faith turns around and grins at the blond vampire saucily. "So Spike hows it going?" Spike shrugs, "The Slayer and her Mum are in bed and I felt like getting in a fight so I thought I'd look for one" "Wanna fight me?" Faith asks "Sorry can't. I promised the Slayer I wouldn't hurt anyone' he replies disgustedly. 'But she never said I can't kill any vampires" he grins. The unlikely partners head off in search of vampires. Part 12
The next evening after sun down Spike arrives at the school library to pick Buffy up. "Hey Slayer' he greets entering. 'You ready?" Sighing Buffy stands up, 'Yeah Spike I am. Do I have to go?" she whines grabbing her backpack Giles exits his office. "Buffy we've been through this. You have to go to Doctor Jones." "I know' Buffy whines, 'but I don't wanna" she grumps "Your Mum said that I have permission to forcefully drag you. And I will" Spike growls threateningly. "Fine' Buffy grumbles walking out the library doors. "Spike? Thank you for taking her" Giles says to the British vampire. Spike nods in acknowledgement and follows Buffy out to his car. Getting into the car Spike starts the car and peals out of the parking lot. "Spike slow down' Buffy grimaces, 'If you get us killed I am so going to kill you" she growls Spike slows the car down as he reaches the doctors office. "See Slayer I got you here alive" he says smugly as he turns the car off. "Have fun" Spike smirks as Buffy gets out of the car. She glares at the vampire and starts to close the car door. She stops and asks quietly, "Spike?" "What pet?" he demands impatiently Twisting her ring nervously Buffy shyly asks, "Will you come with me? I really hate going to the doctors and you could keep my mind off it" Sighing Spike hesitantly agrees and gets out of the car. He follows Buffy up to the office door. "Remember Spike be good" Buffy orders "Scouts honor Slayer" Spike smirks "Somehow I doubt you where ever a scout,' she frowns thoughtfully, 'Then again I don't think the scouts were around when you were a kid.' She looks at Spike puzzeled, 'Were they?" "Not that I recall pet. Then again I was poor." Spike remarks opening the door for Buffy. Spike closes the door shut as he follows Buffy inside. Spike sits on the couch as Buffy checks in. Moments later she sits beside him and fidgets. "Calm down Slayer" Spike smirks, 'Why are you so nervous?" "I hate going to the doctors. I know I should be glad that I have one but they make me nervous. Before now it was because I hated the exam. Now' she frowns, 'Now, I worry that everytime I come in the doctor is going to tell me that something is wrong with one of the babies. It scares me Spike" she admits Thinking it over Spike decides to offer the Slayer some calming news. "Slayer I can tell you that nothing is wrong with the babies" "How do you know?" Buffy asks suspiciously Spike points to his ear, "I hear their heart beats" "oh,' Buffy nods, 'Thank you Spike" the two sit there silently, 'Hey Spike will you come in with me?" Buffy requests Spike looks at the Slayer surprised, "Are you sure Slayer?" Buffy looks at Spike her eyes wide with hope, "Please Spike' she begs, 'Besides Spike you are their brother, in a way. And I guess in a way having you there would be like having a second set of eyes when she does the sonogram." Spike sighs, "All right Slayer. If it makes you feel better I'll come in" The nurse then calls Buffy's name. Spike follows Buffy into the exam room. Spike sits down and picks up a magazine. "The last time I was with a doctor and not eating him was over two hundred years ago" he muses "And I take it that its changed a lot since you were alive" Buffy remarks sitting up on the exam table "Your right pet. Things have changed alot since I was alive" Spike agrees. He then hears footsteps coming towards the door. "Doctors coming" he remarks. A second later the door opens and in walks the doctor. "Hello Buffy.' the doctor greets, 'How are you doing today?" she asks "Fine Dr. Jones.' gesturing to Spike she introduces, 'Dr. Jones this is Spike. Spike this is Dr. Jones" "Spike?" Dr. Jones asks amused "Its a nickname' Buffy explains, 'His real name is William" "Bloody Hell Slayer" Spike grumbles "So Spike knows you the Slayer?" "Um yes. Spike is kind of a friend of the family." Buffy lies "Well its nice to meet you Spike.' Turning her attention back to Buffy the doctor says, 'You ready for the sonogram?" "Yes. I have waited all day' Buffy remarks lifting up her shirt to expose her belly Spike looks up from the magazine and chuckles, "Slayer your huge" Buffy growls at Spike, "Shut up" "Well you are" he smirks. He watches as the doctor puts the gel on Buffy's abdomen. "OK' the doctor says picking up the wand. 'OK. Here you go' she says pointing at the screen, 'There are the twins" "Hey Spike check this out" Buffy says excitedly. Spike moves to Buffy's side and sees the screen image. "Cool huh?" "There is your son,' Dr. Jones points to an image. 'He looks well. And there is your little girl.' she points to the other form. 'she seems well. Both of them seem healthy I see nothing to worry about." Buffy looks questioningly at Spike. He shakes his head in response. "So doc everything is all right?" Buffy asks "Yes Buffy. Your pregnancy is going as scheduled. Now we have to discuss one other issue" "What?" Buffy asks chewing on her lip nervously "Buffy its nothing to really worry about. I am talking about when you go into labor. I worry that when you go into labor that you will crush your coaches hand" "Giles mentioned that possiblility. He is also worried about it. But the problem is who? I mean their father isn't able to. With everyone else I'd end up crushing their hands" "And why not their father? You haven't mentioned much about him" the doctor probes. Buffy twists her ring nervously, "We broke up. He has somethings to deal with and so he won't be around" she sniffs Spike adds grumpily, "He's a bloody wanker" "Spike" Buffy growls warningly "Okay then. We will have to find someway to get around it" Dr. Jones remarks, 'Buffy I will see you next week. Spike it was nice to meet you" she says leaving the exam room. Spike and Buffy are left alone in the room. "Slayer the doc doesn't know about Angel?" "No Spike' Buffy answers getting off the table. 'Giles, Mom and I thought it would be for the best if she didn't know" "Why pet?" "She still has ties to the Council. The Council knows about Angel but they don't know that he's their father. We told them the father disappeared and is presumed dead" "Not that far off are they" Spike chuckles, "You ready to head home?" Buffy nods, "I need to make next weeks appointment" The head out to the reception area and Buffy makes her next appointment. "Lets get going. I have homework to do and I want to take a nice long hot shower" the two head out to the car and return to the Summers house. Pulling into the driveway Spike and Buffy get out of the car. As he walks up to the front door Spike becomes alert to the sound of growling. Turning he sees Buffy right behind him also alert to vampires nearby. He growls out, 'Slayer go inside" Buffy protests, "But Spike" "Now" Spike growls pushing Buffy towards the stairs. After he hears Buffy enter the house he turns around to face five vampires. "Hello mates" he greets "Spike what are you doing here?" demands one of the vampires "Nothing mates. Now I suggest you leave" he growls "Why Spike? So you can make friends with the Slayer" another asks rushing Spike. Spike flips the vampire and throws him. Buffy opens the front door and stands in the doorway with her crossbow. "Hey Fang Gang hows the game" she says letting one of the arrows fly nailing one of the vampires in the heart. "I told you to stay inside" Spike growls staking a vampire. Buffy and Spike finish off the three vampires. "Damn it Slayer. I told you to stay inside" Spike growls as he stalks towards the Slayer. Buffy goes back into the house. "Spike I had to" "You had to?' he yells, 'Damn it Slayer I had it under control. You shouldn't have come out. You could have gotten yourself hurt" "I'm sorry Spike." Buffy apologizes again "Next time when I tell you to do something then do it." "God Spike chill" Buffy retorts, 'I'm fine we're fine. I'm going to go take a shower" Buffy says walking up the stairs, "Get the phone if it rings" she calls. Buffy goes into the bathroom and turns on the shower. Looking into the mirror she grimaces at her image. "Man I look terrible" she strokes her belly gently. Buffy gets into the shower and stands under the water thinking.
Chapter 13/? Downstairs Spike goes into the kitchen and takes a blood pack out of the the fridge. Heading into the living room he turns on the tv. After watching TV for thirty minutes the phone rings. 'Hello?" he answers. "Spike is Buffy there?" Angel asks "Just a sec Peaches. She's upstairs.' Spike remarks. Spike heads upstairs. Hearing the showers off he goes to Buffy's door. 'Hey Slayer' he knocks, 'phone.' Not getting an answer thinking she's mad at him he calls, 'Slayer I'm sorry for yelling at you earlier.' not getting an answer he tries again. 'Fine Slayer Peaches is on the phone.' he calls with a grin. Buffy opens the door and sees Spike holding the phone. "Spike?" she holds her hand out for the phone. Spike holds the phone out of her reach. "Give me the phone Spike" she yells impatiently "Not until you say please" Spike taunts "Spike you Billy Idol wanna be give me the phone now" Buffy yells kicking Spike in the shin. Spike swears angrily dropping his grasp on the phone. "Damn it Slayer that hurt" Spike whines as Buffy slams her bedroom door shut in his face. Leaning wearily against the closed she grips the phone tightly. "Angel?" she says tentatively stroking her abdomen thoughtfully "Hi Buff.' Angel greets, 'How are you?" he asks Walking to her bed and leaning against the headboard Buffy answers, 'I miss you Angel" she says tearfully "I miss you too' Angel reciprocates. 'how are the babies?" he asks hesitantly Smiling tenderly at the mention of the babies she answers, "Great. We had a doctors appointment this evening. The doctor said their great. I'm great. She's a little worried about the me in labor thing and crushing someones hand" "well Buffy she has a point. You could crush someone's hand without realizing it." "I know' she sighs "Buffy whats wrong?" Angel asks concerned Chewing her lip she answers tentatively, "Angel I wish you were here." "I wish I was too" he agrees. 'How is everything at school?" Buffy pouts, "The troll Snyder keeps after me about school. Everytime I see him he grunts his disapproval or makes some sort of remark about teenagers. The other students react the same way that they did before. Giles and everyone are being totally overprotective. Spike and Faith are the only two so far to not boss me around" she complains "Buffy Giles and everyone just cares alot about you and the twins. Spike and Faith just don't seem to be the type to worry" "I know. Spike's mad at me right now" she complains "Why? Spike rarely gets mad unless its warranted" Angel waits for an answer. "Buffy" he demands Sighing she reluctantly answers, "He's mad because I um didn't listen when he told me to do something" "Well what was the situation?" Angel asks "After we got home we had visitors. He ordered me inside and I didn't stay in" "Buffy' Angel says angrily, 'You should have listened to him. You could have gotten hurt or even killed!" "I know Angel. Its just something told me that I had to help him. It was like I had no choice some other force drove me to help him" she explains Thinking over her words Angel replies, "I know what you mean' he pauses, 'Buffy I have something I need to tell you' Angel begins, 'Last week I had a dream that you were attacked. In the dream whoever attacked you left you alive but' he pauses, 'they killed the babies" he finishes Gasping fearfully Buffy strokes her abdomen. "Angel?!" she cries Hearing her cry Angel feels his heart tear. "After the dream someone or something told me that you and the twins needed Spike to watch over you" Stunned momentarily Buffy demands, "Damn it Angel you should have told me before!" "I couldn't Buffy. I knew if I did you'd protest" Angel replies "You're right Angel I would have protested. Not because Spike came here but because you didn't. Angel you sent Spike instead of coming here yourself!" "Buffy you know I can't" Angel protests "Angel I know your worried that being with us will cause you to lose your soul. God I worry about that everyday that when the twins are born' she rubs her belly, 'I'll lose you again. Angel I don't want to lose you the thought of losing you terrifies me. They need you Angel. I need you." she whimpers "You won't lose me Buffy. I promise." "Can you hold on?' Buffy asks "Sure" Angel listens as Buffy's bed shifts "OK I'm back' she says, 'My back hurts" she complains "I'm sorry baby" Angel says sympathetically "Angel' she begins, 'I want you to be there with me when they're born. Please?" "Buffy I don't know" Angel sighs "Please Angel at least think about it.' Buffy begs, 'Angel I really want you to be there...I need you to be there." "I want to be there Buffy. I really do. I want to be with you now and when the twins are born. I want to be there and hold your hand. God Buffy I want to be there so bad. Every morning when I fall asleep I imagine you holding them after they are born. But then I remember when you told me you were pregnant and how guilty I felt for almost killing you and them." "It wasn't your fault' Buffy insists, 'I never blamed you for any of it. Did I ever tell you what my first thought was when I found out I was pregnant?" "No you didn't" "I was glad and hopeful that I would get you back. I kept seeing you holding our baby Angel in every dream. The only time I ever resented or even hated the fact I was pregnant was the day you left us. Then I realized you were trying to do what was best for all of us. But I hate that Angel. I hate the fact that because you wanted to do what was best for us you left. In my mind I also wondered if you would have left if I wasn't pregnant. Later I realized that it didn't matter worrying like that because sooner or later something would have happened and I would have lost you anyway. At least this way I still have a part of you." "I want to be with you so bad Buffy.' Angel sighs mournfully, "I want to be with them too" The two are momentarily silent Buffy lays on her bed feeling the movements of the twins. "Speaking of them.' she begins, 'Angel they need names. We can't keep refering to the babies as them or the twins." "Well what do you want to name them?" Angel inquires "No way buster. You are going to help name them. There is no way you are getting out of it" Buffy states firmly "I didn't say I want to get out of it." Angel protests. "Its just I haven't really been able to think about naming them. Have you thought of any names?" "I thought of ones I like but so far I haven't come up with any high up names.' She giggles "What?" Giggling Buffy answers, "I was just thinking of what Xander suggested" Groaning Angel remarks, 'I bet his suggestion was to name the boy son of Deadboy and the girl Vampgirl." "Angel' Buffy says disapprovingly, 'You know Xander wouldn't say that. You two might not get along but Xander has been behaving." "He better behave around the twins" Angel growls Rolling her eyes in annoyance Buffy continues, 'Anyway Xander suggested we name them Alexander and Alexandra" she giggles "No way. We are not naming them after the guy who refers to me as Deadboy" Angel growls "Angel calm down' Buffy soothes. She gasps in surprise as the twins both kick her in the side. "Buffy you OK?" Angel asks worriedly when he hears her gasp Chuckling she replies, "I'm fine Angel. They just kicked me hard' rubbing her side she groans jokingly, 'One day I could end up with a broken rib because they kick hard. Angel?' she asks "Yeah?" "Where are you?" she asks curiously On the other end Angel stands up and walks to the window and gazes out at the lights of LA. "If your asking if I'm in Sunnydale I'm not Buff." "Are you still in California?" she inquires Grinning at the question Angel answers, "Of course. I didn't want to be too far from you. I had thought about going back to New York...but I couldn't" "Couldn't?" she questions softly "No. I didn't want to be that far from you." "Angel are you ever going to see us?" Buffy asks seriously Sighing Angel twists his ring thoughtfully, "I will Buffy. I promise. I want to meet them and hold them and you" "I wish you were here now with me.' she rubs her midsection affectionately, 'Feeling them move Angel is amazing." "I wish I was Buff. But I'm not. I'm sorry that I'm not there." "I know and its all because you thought you were doing the best for us.' she remarks bitterly, 'But is it really for the best Angel? I mean for the rest of their lives they are going to resent the fact that you left. When they are older they are probably going to end up blaming themselves for you not being here" "Buffy thats not fair' Angel protests, 'You know its for the best that I left Sunnydale. Its not like I'm abandoning them Buffy" "Yes but Angel they will feel like you have. You won't be there for them everyday Angel" Rubbing his forehead Angel in agitation he protests, "I won't be there everyday Buffy but I will be there when you need me or when they need me. You know that I'm always going to be there for you" Sniffling Buffy curls up on her bed, "But you aren't Angel. You aren't here now. And I need you. They need you. I try not to think of the future, I think of now. Right now when we need you the most you aren't here" she sobs "Buffy don't cry" Angel soothes, "I'm sorry Buffy" he apologizes "Don't be sorry Angel. I don't want you to be. I just want you here" Buffy chokes up and then hangs up. Curling up tighter she sobs out her pain Chapter 14/? In LA Angel looks at his phone in surprise. Pushing redial he waits for Buffy to pick up. "Come on Buff' he mutters. Not getting an answer he hits redial again. In Sunnydale Spike is watching tv. Growling at the sound of the phone ringing he yells, 'Slayer are you going to get the bloody phone?" Not getting an answer he returns his attention to the tv when the phone rings again. "Bloody hell' he growls picking up the phone, 'What?" "Let me talk to Buffy" Angel orders "Bloody hell Peaches' Spike growls "Spike" Angel growls warningly "All right' Spike grumbles. He heads up the stairs. 'Slayer the phones for you" he calls through the door "If its Angel I don't want to talk to him." Buffy yells back "Sorry Peaches you heard her' Spike laughs walking down the stairs "Spike' Angel begins, 'Spike when is Joyce going to be home?" "She called while the Slayer was at school. She won't be home until Wednesday" Hearing that Angel makes a split moment decision. "Spike I'm coming down. I'll be there in a few hours" "The Slayer will be pissed" Spike comments "Spike don't tell her" "Why not?" "Because I want to surprise her." Angel answers hanging up Staring at the dead phone Spike grumbles. "Bloody hell Peaches. If she finds out I know she'll bloody stake me. But then again her finding him here could end up to be a great battle" he smirks hanging up the phone and returns to his show. Buffy meanwhile cries herself to sleep. *****A few hours later***** Angel pulls into the Summers driveway. Anxious he watches the lights from the living room flicker and the darkened window of Buffy's room. Getting out of the car he strolls up to the front door and knocks quietly. Inside Spike senses his sire's presence. Hearing the knock on the door he gets up and answers the door. "Hey Peaches" he greets opening the door for Angel's enterance. "Where is she?" he demands entering "What no hi Spike? how ya doing?" Hearing Angel growl Spike answers, "All right Peaches. She's upstairs asleep" "Thanks' Angel says heading up the stairs he opens Buffy's bedroom door quietly and enters. Walking to the edge of the bed he sits down gazing down at his beloved. Gently he moves her hair out of her face trailing his fingers down her cheek. He listening closely he makes out three heart beats one more pronounce than the others. He hears her breathing become more alert as she drowsily opens her eyes. Opening her eyes drowsily she tentatively says, "Angel?" Smiling slightly Angel replies, "Yeah its me" Sitting up as quickly as a pregnant woman can she throws her arms around his neck and hugs him hard. "Angel what are you doing here?" she asks tearfully as she pulls away and looks at his face. Smiling sadly he responds, "I came to see you' he places his hand on her belly gently, 'and them." "I'm sorry for hanging up on you' Buffy apologizes, 'I just felt..." she trails off "No Buffy you were right. I need to be apart of their lives even if I'm not here everyday. Its something that they need...we need. I love you Buff. I love our babies too" he kisses her "How long are you going to be here?" Buffy asks anxiously Angel toes off his boots and leans against the headboard pulling Buffy close. "I can't stay Buffy" "I know you can't stay" she sighs, "But I'm glad your here now" "I'm glad too,' Angel says softly kissing her head, 'I just wish I didn't have to leave" he says mournfully Sitting partially up she touches his face tenderly. "I'n a way you'll always be here. I may not be able to see you...but I'll be able to see you in our babies' as she says that she feels the excited movements of the babies. Smiling brightly at Angel she takes his hand and placing it on her belly. "Angel they want their Daddy's attention" she giggles at the look of fascination on his face Angel grins at the feeling of his children moving. "You're right Buffy, they are strong" he says awed "Just like their Daddy' she says proudly. She moves back to recline against him, she snuggles closer to him. They lay there silently for awhile as they feel the movements of their children. "Angel?" she asks hesitantly. He grunts in response. Linking their hands Buffy asks curiously, "Angel before you were changed...did you want to have kids?" Angel sits there and thinks back to his mortal life. "I'm not really sure,' he admits, 'I mean if I had found someone I loved and wanted to have kids with then yes. But I never found that someone until the day I first saw you, the day you became the Slayer. When I was alive I would have wanted to live forever. But now that I will live forever...I would give it up for mortality. To be able to live a normal life with you and our miracles,' he strokes her belly, 'is my dream. A dream that will never come true" "Maybe one day it will come true,' Buffy remarks hopefully as she turns her head to look at him. 'Maybe one day we will be able to live a normal life a normal family" Angel sighs sadly at her words. "Maybe...but Buffy I want you to promise me that you'll never get your hopes up or theirs" Angel requests "Why not? Angel we deserve to have these hopes. I mean if I dwelled on the fact that we may never be together...as a family then I'll never be able to survive. I'll never be happy" Angel tightens his hold on Buffy. "Buffy promise me something." She nods. "Promise me that you'll try to be happy without me" "God Angel you know I can't promise you that" she cries "Listen I want you to promise me that you'll try to go ahead with having a normal life. I want you to be happy. Buffy I need you to be happy" "I am happy" she protests "No you aren't Buffy and you won't be if you can't move on to have a normal life. Find a normal guy who can take you and the twins to the parks and watch them play. A guy who can step outside without bursting into flames. Someone who will be with you as you get older" "Angel I am happy. I don't want a normal guy I want you. If your telling that I need to find a normal guy to take the twins to the park then I have three answers Oz, Xander, and Giles. As for finding a guy who won't burst into flames then how about finding a guy who can't get shot, won't die in a car accident. Angel the world is full of things that can kill a normal guy. At least with you I don't have to worry about who will be with the twins if I die. You'll always be there for them. Angel I don't want a normal guy...I want the guy I love. And let me remind you that you are the guy I love" she says angrily her eyes filling with tears Angel hugs her, "Buffy I'm trying to do whats right here. I know it seems like I'm pushing you away but I'm not I'm trying to allow you to live a normal life. The life you deserve. I love you Buffy I always will. I want the best for you and the twins. The best just happens to be me wanting you to find someway to live a normal life." Buffy pushes him away and wipes her tears "Are you telling me that even though we love each other you don't want to give us a try...as somewhat of a family" she says touching her abdomen Angel leans his forehead against her, "Buffy we are a family of sorts even if we aren't together. I promise that we always will be. I'll visit them when their older they can come visit me. You and me together is too much of a temptation. Buffy I can't put us through that again especially since we are going to have two innocent people who will depend on us. If it happens again Buffy they will be caught in the crossfire, again. I can't deal with the idea that if it happens I could hurt them and you. Please Buffy I need you to understand why I'm doing these things saying these things. I'm trying to protect you from the possibilities" "I know its just hard. When we're apart its like I'm missing a part of myself and I don't like it" "Either do I" Angel agrees, "but it has to be done" "I know. Not just for our sakes but for theirs' She leans against the headboard, 'Just promise me Angel that no matter what happens in the future that you won't be like my father." Angel puts his hand on her belly, "I promise I will always be there for them no matter what. I have waited this long to have a family I am not going to end up disappointing them" Angel lays next to Buffy and puts his ear against her abdomen listening to the heartbeats. Speaking quietly against her stomach he whispers, 'I promise that I will always be here for you." He lays his head back down on Buffy's belly. Buffy feels tears falling down her cheeks as she hears Angel's tender words. She gently strokes his dark hair as they are silent. Soon Angel realizes that Buffy is asleep tenderly Angel moves her under the covers and kisses her forehead. Not wanting to leave her but needing to clear his head he heads downstairs to find Spike still watching TV. "So Peaches did you and the Slayer patch things up?" he asks his attention still on the TV. Angel sits down on the recliner, "A little. She and I talked" "Your still leaving again" Spike says Angel nods sadly, "I have to Spike. I can't stay here you know that. No matter how much I want to I can't. Spike thank you for being there for her these few days" Spike looks at Angel, "Peaches when you were upstairs with Buffy did' Spike asks hesitantly, 'did you feel I don't know a powerful presence" Angel thinks back, "I'm not sure. I mean I could have but thought it as the reaction I have towards Buffy. Why?" "I get a feeling similiar to the one that alerts me to when you or Dru are around. But theirs is different more intense. I can't explain it" "It is possible that they do have the same alert system we have. But is it only towards us? or is it towards other vampires as well?" Angel wonders, "It could have been because I sired you and that sense passed onto them. Or it could have just been the powerful presence that innocents have" "It could be" Spike reasons Angel looks up to see Buffy walking down the stairs. "Buffy what are you doing up?" he asks concerned "Hi Angel' she greets drowsily, 'I woke up you were gone. I came down to see where you were" she explains rubbing her eyes sleepily "Bed' Angel orders standing up, 'Now" "But Angel" she whines. Angel takes Buffy's hand and leads her to the stairs, "You are going to bed. I happen to know that you haven't been sleeping enough." "Don't do anything I would do" Spike advises with a smirk. "Shut up Spike" Buffy replies. Angel takes Buffy back to her bedroom and tucks her back into bed. 'Angel will you stay with me tonight?" she asks "I'm not going anywhere tonight or tomorrow." Angel replies lying down beside her he pulls her back against his chest. "Thats good' Buffy says drowsily, 'Angel Love you" "Love you too Buff" he whispers, 'And you two" he says placing his hand on her belly. Angel listens as the Slayer falls asleep and he soon he follows.
Chapter 15/? Mid morning Angel is awakened by the urgent movements of the twins. Smiling faintly against Buffy's hair he lays there just enjoying the feeling of their movements. Soon Buffy also wakes up and together the two lovers lay there silent as they enjoy the activity of the babies. After awhile they hear familiar footsteps pounding up the stairs. Angel growls in annoyance as Spike barges into the bedroom "Hello Poof, Slayer' he greets cheerfully "Shut up Spike" Buffy snaps, "And get out of my room" she orders Spike leans against the door frame, "Tsk, tsk Slayer. I wonder how mum would react if she found out you were rude to her favorite vampire" Buffy sits up, "If you even think that she'd think I was rude for telling you to get out of my room, then how would she react if she found out you didn't even knock" Buffy smirks, "And stop calling her mum" she adds as an after thought "I can call Joyce mum if I want to Slayer" Spike retorts "I should have staked you when I had the chance" Buffy grumbles "Like you could" Spike snorts "I can too" Buffy argues Angel holds up his hand. "Stop!' he orders, 'Spike what do you want?" "I came up here to tell the Slayer that there is nothing left to eat. And I am getting hungry" he whines "Then go get it yourself' Buffy says angrily "Not bloody likely Slayer' Spike replies, 'I don't want to be a roasted vampire. You go get it" "I want you roasted toasted flamed' Buffy says sweetly, 'And I'm not going." "How am I gonna eat" Spike whines Buffy shrugs, "I guess I could call Faith. I'd call Willow or Xander but they could get into trouble" "Oooh send Scrappy." Spike says excitedly as Buffy picks up the phone "Shut up Spike' she says, 'Hey Faith" she greets "B do you know what time it is?" Faith asks sleepily "Yes Faith its morning. Have a busy night?" Buffy inquires "Bloody hell Slayer' Spike whines, 'I'm hungry" "Shut up Spike before I stake you' Buffy retorts. 'Sorry Faith but Peroxide Boy is hungry and he won't get out of my room" Faith laughs, 'Gee B another vampire in your room" "Actually its two" Buffy admits "Spike stop whining" Angel says "I'm not whining you poof" "Two huh? I take either you have a new vamp in your life or Angel's in town" Faith summarizes "Uh the latter" Buffy admits, 'I need a favor. Can you go get some blood from Willie?" "Sure B. What kind?" Faith asks "Just a sec' Buffy turns to the two bickering vampires, 'Hey you two put your arguing on hold for a sec. Faith wants to know what your preference is" "Mines human" Spike smirks "You are not getting human blood Spike" Angel growls "Why not?" Spike whines "Because I said so" Angel answers "Come on you two' Buffy probes, 'What do you want?" "Any" Angel says "Same.' Spike sighs, 'but make sure Willie has fresh" he adds Rolling her eyes Buffy says, "Faith, they want any kind...but not human. And fresh." "Anything else B?" Faith asks "Um ooh can you stop off and pick up a mushroom and liver sandwhich at the deli?" "Sure B. But how am I gonna pay for it? I'm broke" "Threaten Willie and he'll pay for the blood. Borrow some money from him and tell him to put it on...' she grins mischeaviously at Angel, 'Spike's tab" "What??" Spike demands, 'There is no way I am gonna pay for your cravings Slayer" "I'll give you the money to pay it" Angel promises "All right B. I'll be there in 30 minutes" Faith says hanging up Hanging up the phone Buffy turns to Spike. "Now get out of my room" she orders angrily "Fine' Spike says, 'Enjoy" he says closing the door behind him as Buffy throws the pillow at the door. Buffy sits on the bed and leans against the headboard. Angel lays on the bed propping his head up on one hand while the other hand lays on Buffy's belly. Watching Angel intense look Buffy says, 'You know every night I wished you were here beside me feeling this incredible act" "It is incredible" Angel agrees looking up at her, 'I wish I had the courage to come here earlier. I was scared and I guess I wasn't ready to face you...I thought you'd hate me" he admits "Never my Angel. I couldn't hate you" Buffy insists. She frowns in confusion, "Why would you think I'd hate you?" Angel looks away his mind going back in time. "For the things I've done to you and your friends. One of the things I feared most was that you'd be angry over the fact that you've lost a lot at such a young age." "Angel I may have lost a lot in my life but I've gained more since we met. So what I got expelled from school, my parents divorced, friends have died, I have almost died many times, the Master killing me, Spike trying to, losing you... twice, and lets not forget my last 4 birthdays.' she strokes his hair as she talks, 'but look at all I have gained. I have my friends, my mom is more understanding, you and I met, you and Xander saved my life, then you've saved my life and my friends lives many times, you've helped Giles keep from killing me for almost getting killed. Angel you have done so much for me and given me so much. I mean you were always there for me even when I was at my bitchiest. Angel you have given me the most important things ever your love and our babies." she finishes "But Buffy your so young to have children. You have given up a lot of your future at such a young age" Buffy places her hand over Angel's and laces their fingers. "Angel, you know that a Slayer's life span is short. This may be the only chance I have to have kids but I want them Angel. I want them not just because this might be my only chance to ever have kids but I have the chance to have them with you. And in someways its the closest I'll ever have to being someone other than the Slayer" Angel kisses her hand, "Do you ever wonder how this ended up happening? Not just the twins but us meeting?" "It was fate.' she laughs, 'It had to be after all I'm a Slayer who loves a soulled vampire. Add into the mix that I'm pregnant by a vampire then you know that it was all fated to happen. We don't know why but I know I am never going to question the fact it happened" "Neither am I.' Angel agrees. 'But Buffy that night in the graveyard I thought it wasn't possible for a vampire to have kids I meant it" "I know Angel" Buffy says sitting up as the front door rings, 'Ooh Faith's here" she says. Angel stands up and pulls Buffy up. The two head downstairs to find Xander, Willow, Oz, and Cordelia in the hallway. "Bloody hell' Spike whines, 'I thought it was Faith with my breakfast. If I had known it was them I wouldn't have answered the door" he grumbles returning to the couch. "But I would have let them in" Buffy remarks coming down the stairs with Angel right behind. Xander sees Angel and his jaw drops open in surprise, "Uuuh' he swallows, 'What is Deadboy doing here?" he asks angrily "Angel came to visit" Buffy answers "Hi Angel" Willow greets shyly "Hi Willow. I heard that your magic is going great" Angel says Willow nods, "Yeah I'm learning all sorts of cool spells" "But she still hasn't found the spell to turn the rat Amy back into the human Amy" Spike snickers "Hey I'm trying its just taking a while" Willow protests "But you are getting to be good at it" Oz compliments "So Deadboy here to stay?" Xander questions "No I'm only here for a few days" Angel answers "So are you two back together again?" Cordelia asks sitting down next to Xander "No" Buffy answers leaning against Angel. Angel wraps his arms around her waist. "It looks like you are" Cordelia remarks The doorbell rings. "I'll get it" Spike volunteers jumping up. He opens the door. "Hey Faith" he greets grabbing the brown paper bag from the dark haired Slayer "Hey Spike.' Faith says entering the house she closes the door. "Hey everyone" she greets entering. "B I got the sandwhich for you' she hands Buffy the bag. "Poof catch' Spike calls tossing a blood pack to his sire. Catching it Angel conscientious of the humans he heads into the kitchen. "I'm going to go get dressed" Buffy says, "Faith put the sandwhich in the fridge. You guys can eat whatever you can find" she offers heading upstairs Faith heads into the kitchen and puts the sandwhich in the fridge. Xander follows her in to confront Angel. "Deadboy why are you here?" Xander demands. Xander smacks his forehead, "Wait I know to torture Buffy even more" "Look Xander I am sorry for everything I did to everyone as Angelus. Especially for what I did to Buffy. You don't have to trust me Xander but believe me when I say that I would never do anything to hurt Buffy or the twins." "Well forgive me if I don't believe you" Xander snorts unbelievingly "I don't care if you do Xander" Angel replies "If you hurt her again Angel..." Xander trails off "I won't hurt her Xander" Angel says "If you do I will stake you" Faith threatens "I'll, I'll' Willow begins, 'I'll do something really unlike me if you do hurt Buffy" "If I hurt her again I will let you stake me" Angel compromises. They all nod in agreement "Hey Faith Passions is on" Spike calls from the living room "Coming' Faith calls, 'gotta go. Today Eve is going to freak out even more about some bird statue" she explains grabbing a box of cookies "Spike watches soaps?!?" Xander says shocked "I'm not surprised" Willow remarks. The others look at the red head strangely, "Hey its the hellmouth" she adds "True the Hellmouth can make you do anything" Cordelia reasons "Spike's always has been a little different" Angel says "I heard that" Spike yells "Good" Angel yells back "Stop yelling you two" Buffy calls down the stairs "OK" the two vampires call back "I can't believe Spike watches soaps" Xander laughs "Bloody hell what else do you expect me to do when I'm stuck inside all day" Spike remarks from the living room "How about jumping out the window" Buffy smirks coming down the stairs "Not bloody likely" Spike retorts "Then how about I throw you out" Buffy says sweetly "You wouldn't" Spike replies confidently "What makes you think that I wouldn't?" Buffy asks "Cause you love me" Spike smirks Buffy snorts in disgust, "Yeah right Spike. I can and I will...one day" she sighs wistfully. For the rest of the afternoon the gang and two vampires hangout talking trading insults and arguing. Finally around dinner time the Scooby Gang head home. Spike is starting to annoy Angel and Buffy. "Spike go to Willies" Angel says "Why?" Spike demands "Because you are annoying us" Buffy answers "All right.' Spike agrees. 'Maybe I'll run into Faith when she's patrolling. I could use a good fight" he muses picking up his duster and walks out the door "Finally' Buffy sighs curling up on the couch next to Angel, 'you know this is the first night since Spike got here that the house has been quiet?" "Spike can be a little obnoxious" Angel agrees Buffy sits up quickly, "I forgot to show you something" Buffy says excitedly getting up she goes over to her back pack on the dining room table. Riffling through some Buffy she finds what she is looking for and returns to the couch. Sitting next to Angel she hands him a paper "Whats this?" Angel asks "In class we read Romeo and Juliet. The teacher asked us to pick a theme from the story and write our thoughts and feelings on it. I wrote about how Juliet must have felt through the whole story. I kind of based it on how I felt through out our relationship" "I'm always proud of you Buffy. This A is excellent and I am so proud of you" Angel says kissing the top of her head "My teacher said she was moved by what I wrote" she says proudly "Mind if I read it?" Angel asks "No go ahead" Buffy says, "I'm going to go get something to eat" she stands up and heads into the kitchen leaving Angel to read the paper. Buffy is in the kitchen looking for something to eat. She finally decides on chocolate chip mint ice cream with raisins and whip cream. After dishing the ice cream she goes in search of the raisins. "OK I know there are raisins here somewhere" she rumbles opening doors and drawers. Finally she finds them in the desk drawer. "Ah ha' she says triumphantly, 'I found you" Buffy sprinkles the raisins and then sprays the whip cream on. Going back to the desk she notices that the sonogram picture is on the desk and sits at the counter and looks at the sonogram. Angel enters the kitchen and sits across from Buffy. "Buffy your paper is great" "Thank you" she replies, "I felt better about a lot of things after writing it. Not just towards our relationship but in some ways it helped me get things out over Pike. And in some sense I was able to work somethings out over my parents marriage." "I'm glad that writing the paper helped you process things." He says watching Buffy eat the ice cream. "Whats that?" Angel asks Buffy smiles and hands him the picture, "The sonogram picture from yesterday." Angel gazes thoughtfully at the picture. "They look so...innocent" "For now' Buffy jokes. Angel looks at her questioningly, 'Come on Angel. If you look at the fact of who we are then the babies will most likely be like us when they get older. Lets just hope they end up with your brains" "Come on Buff your smart" Angel protests Buffy shakes the spoon at him, "I am in certain ways. I'm more street smart then book smart. If they inherit my brains then there will be a lot of phone calls from the school saying one or both of them failed a test, skipped class, or beat someone up.' Buffy frowns. 'Something tells me that the principal is going to have me on speed dial." "Doesn't Snyder have your mom's work, cell, and home number on speed dial" Angel smirks "Very funny Angel" Buffy smiles. 'I wouldn't be surprised if he did" she sighs. They are silent as Buffy finishes her ice cream. Suddenly Buffy asks, "Angel you never told me what you were like as a little boy. You told me about just before you became a vampire but never about when you were little." Angel looks at Buffy surprised. "It was a long time ago Buffy. I remember very little." he says "Come on Angel you remember somethings." "I remember playing with my friends in the yard. One time when I was 12 my best friends Thomas, Michael, and I climbed old lady O'Ryan's fence. She had this lake that was surrounded by rocks.' he smiles at the memory, 'Everyonce in awhile we'd go there to swim. Anyway this one day Michael and Thomas were mad at me because they found out that I had kissed their 10 year old sister Mary Eileen behind their barn. Michael and Thomas talked me into going." "What happened?" Buffy asks curious Angel grins at the memory, "Like always we went to the edge to make sure that the water was deep enough. Michael came up behind me and said, 'Liam, Mary Eileen told us that ya kissed her.' Thomas came up behind me and shoved me into the muddy water and called, 'Liam me friend dontcha go kissin' on our sister.' When I got home my father punished me for being muddy' Angel stops talking. "Angel what happened?" Buffy questions "He punished me for being muddy, he took out the cane he used for punishments. Afterwards he locked me in the barn without blankets and still in my muddy clothes. It was freezing out and I spent the night out there. I was bruised, cold and wet. The next morning after he left the house my mother let me out." "Oh Angel" Buffy murmers, 'I'm sorry" Angel shrugs, "It was almost 300 years ago." he stands up and walks into the living room Buffy follows, 'Even so Angel you remember it after all this time" Buffy says sitting next to him on the couch "Yeah I remember all the punishments he gave me. Buffy my father was a tyrant. He enjoyed using me to get his anger out. I have to be grateful that he never hit Kathy or my mother" "You had a sister?" Buffy says surprised "Yes I did.' Angel smiles slightly, 'Her name was Katherine Louise. She was the most important person in my life. She was the only one to ever accept me as me. No matter what I did she was always there to say, 'Liam tell me a story' Kathy was the sweetest little girl in the world. I was 15 when she was born. My mother was ecstatic. My father he was angry. I remember overhearing him say 'another useless child' At first I was resentful of her but the moment I saw her I felt like she was the most important person I had ever met. After she was born he became even more hateful. The afternoon that I met Darla I had told him that I didn't want to be who he wanted be to be. I wanted to do what I wanted. I got drunk that night and Darla turned me. I remember thinking the moment I died that I would never see Kathy again." "What happened?" "I saw her again' he says bitterly, 'she was the one to give me the name Angel. She greeted me at the door and thought I was an angel coming back to her. She was the first one I killed." "Angel you know that its not your fault" "I know that" Buffy and Angel spend the next few hours talking about the differences between their childhoods and the hopes they had for their children. Finally around midnight Buffy exhausted goes to bed, while Angel sits in her bedroom alternating between reading and watching Buffy sleep. Angel is reading when he hears Buffy talking in her sleep. Angel listens as Buffy cries terrified. Worried he hurries to the bedside. 'Buffy' he calls shaking her. 'Buffy wake up' Slowly Buffy opens her eyes, 'Angel?' "Buffy are you OK?" "Yes. Angel?" "yeah baby?" "will you hold me?" Buffy asks "Sure' Angel gets into bed with her and holds her close as she falls asleep. ************* The next morning Angel awakes to Buffy watching him. "Morning" he greets "Hi.' Buffy replies. 'Your leaving tonight aren't you?" Angel props his head up on his hand. Smiling sadly he places his hand on her belly tenderly. "Yes I am.' as he says it he feels two sharp movements. He chuckles, 'Sorry you two but I have to leave." "Don't worry your Daddy will come back and see you" "And you" he adds looking at Buffy. The two spend the day talking together and with Spike. Not long after the sun goes down and Angel gets ready to leave. Buffy watches sadly from the bed as he gathers his stuff. Sensing her sadness Angel sits down next to her facing her. Touching her cheek he smoothes her hair behind her ear. A tear falls down her cheek. Angel wipes it away with his thumb and leans his forehead against hers. "I'll miss you Buffy." Crying Buffy asks, 'Will you call everyonce in awhile? I need to know your all right" she kisses his palm lightly "I'll call every other day." Angel promises "Will you be here when their born?" she questions "I'll try to Buff." Angel answers, "I love you Buffy" "I love you too Angel" Buffy says tearfully wrapping her arms around his neck. Angel hugs her tightly and feels the twins kick. "They love you too" Buffy giggles tearfully pressing his hand against the side of her abdomen. Angel places his hands on each side of her stomach and smiles as he feels a kick. "Hey you two be good to mommy. I love you guys" he says sadly. He looks at Buffy his chocolate eyes showing sadness and love. Angel leans forward and kisses her forehead lightly. "Forever Buffy" he whispers against her lips seconds before kissing her gently yet passionately. "Forever my Angel" she echoes sadly. Angel stands up and walks to the bedroom door turning around he asks sadly, "Are you still my girl?" "I'll always be your girl my Angel." she answers wrapping her arms around herself in comfort. Buffy watches as Angel walks out of her room. "Daddy will be back" she whispers Angel walks downstairs and sees Spike leaning against the wall at the bottom of the stairs. Once at the bottom Angel looks sadly up the stairs. "Watch out for them Spike" he says "I promise Angelus" Spike vows watching his sire head out the front door. Upstairs Buffy gets up and goes places her hand against her window. She watches as Angel walks out to his car. Angel looks up at her. "I love you" she mouths. Angel nods in response then turns towards his car. He stops again dropping his bag he runs across the lawn and jumps up to the ledge outside Buffy's window. Buffy opens her window quickly. Angel leans in the room. "Just like old times" he remarks Buffy smiles back, "I thought you were leaving" "I forgot to tell you something" "What did you forget to tell me?" Buffy asks puzzeled "I forgot to say Goodbye" he answers "Not goodbye Angel' she protests, 'more like see you later" she grins "Then see you later my love" Angel grins kissing her once more before jumping off the roof. Buffy watched as her beloved drove away. "Later my Angel" she whispers. Buffy stares out the window then turns as she hears a knock at her bedroom door. Turning she finds Spike standing there watching her concerned. "What Spike?" she demands Spike walks in and leans against the wall. "Are you OK Slayer?" he asks concerned Buffy looks at him and then out the window, "I will be Spike" Spike is silent then says, "Slayer how about I make you something to eat and we watch a movie or something" the vampire suggests Buffy looks at Spike surprised amusement, "Spike are you being nice to me" "Bloody hell Slayer why would I be nice to you?' Spike demands, 'I just don't want to hear you whining about Peaches all night" Spike grumbles "I don't whine" Buffy retorts. She thinks it over then admits, "OK I do have a tendency to whine but I don't whine all night" she states following Spike downstairs to the kitchen. The two have ice cream and watch The Princess Bride. ************* The next morning Joyce returns to find Buffy asleep on the couch and Spike asleep on the recliner. Joyce goes and gently wakes Buffy up. "Buffy honey wake up" Buffy opens her eyes groggily, "Hi mommy. Your home early" Buffy comments "Honey why don't you wake Spike up and then go up to bed" Joyce suggests "I'm up mum" Spike says sleepily from the chair "Good. Now Spike why don't you go down to the basement and sleep. I'm going to air out the downstairs.' Joyce explains, 'And Buffy I want you to go upstairs to bed" Joyce orders "Comfy here" Buffy mumbles burrowing into the pillow "Up you two" Joyce orders walking upstairs Spike grumblingly gets off the chair and heads to the basement, "Mum will you be done cleaning by the time Passions comes on?" Spike calls "Yes Spike I will be.' Joyce replies, 'I'll let you know when I'm done cleaning and airing out so you can come back up" "Thanks" Spike calls heading to the basement Buffy gets off the couch and walks sleepily towards the stairs when the doorbell rings. She walks to the door grumbling. Opening the door she asks, "What?" "Delivery for Buffy Summers" the UPS man says holding out the clip board for her to sign. "Who's it from?" she asks curiously as she signs "Umm' the deliveryman glances at the clip board, 'Its from Angel O'Riley" he answers Buffy looks at him stunned, "Uhh thank you" she watches as the deliveryman walks off the porch "Buffy who was at the door?" Joyce questions walking down the stairs Buffy smiles brightly at her mom. "Its a package from Angel" Buffy opens the letter attached, 'Buffy, I saw these and thought that the twins could use their own Mr. Gordo's. Love, Angel' "Well I'm glad he has finally come around" Joyce remarks sarcastically Buffy turns to her mom, "Look Mom I know you don't approve of Angel but I love him. He and I talked the other night and worked somethings out. There are things you don't understand about our relationship. Now I am going to take this upstairs and open it" Buffy picks the box up and goes up to her room. Sitting on her bed she opens the box to find two miniature versions of Mr. Gordo. She gets in bed with the three stuffed pigs and falls asleep dreaming of her time with Angel. Everyday Buffy receives either a gift for the twins or just a letter or a phone call from Angel.
Buffy is still with her friends at the school library researching and doing homework. Looking at the clock she realizes that the sun had been down for an hour. "Spike should be here soon" she thinks to herself calmly as she strokes her abdomen. Her attention is drawn to the library doors as Spike and much to her surprise Faith walk in together talking. "Hey Slayer" Spike greets upon seeing Buffy. "hey B. Spike's been telling me about the times you guys fought" Faith remarks "Oh so your hearing the fictionalized version" Buffy grins. Spike growls in response "Uh he..llo Spike. Faith its good that your here" Giles stammers nervously "Relax mates" Spike chuckles looking at the nervous Scooby Gang, "I won't hurt you' he remarks grinning. He grins slyly at Buffy, 'At least while the Slayer is still pregnant I won't" Buffy rolls her eyes in mock disgust. "Funny Spike" she chuckles, "So what did you do all day?" Buffy inquires Spike shrugs and leans against the checkout counter, "Slept, read, watched the telly, and Faith stopped by and hung out" "B you never told me that Spike was fun" Faith chastises the other Slayer Xander laughs, "Faith we never saw the fun side of Spike...when he was trying to kill US" Xander spat out in anger Spike growls at Xander his face morphing into his vampire face. "Shutup Scrappy" Giles speaks sharply to Xander, "Xander don't taunt Spike" "Why?" Xander demands, "Deadboy Jr. has tried to kill us time and time again and now we're supposed to trust him?" "Xander' Buffy snaps, 'Spike is here to help us. I trust him Xander. I know you don't but you trust me" "Xander I won't kill you. I promise on my unlife and Drusilla's" Spike remarks Hearing Spike swear on Drusilla's unlife Willow stutters, "Xander he swore on Drusilla's head. Spike would never make a promise like that on Drusilla's unlife unless he meant it" Xander thinks it over and begrudgingly agrees, "All right but if he tries to take a bite out of me I get to say I told you so" "Buffy I think it is time for you to head home." Giles suggests glancing at his watch. "Faith why don't you do a quick patrol. Oz can you take everyone home?" Giles asks. Faith nods and heads out. Oz agrees and the others gather their things. "Buffy call me" Willow calls as she follows the others out the door "Buffy go home and get some rest" Giles orders, "Spike try not to get into any trouble" Giles asks. Buffy nods and grabs her back pack. "See you tomorrow" Buffy calls as she and Spike head out the library. "Man it has been one long day" Buffy yawns as they walk out to Spike's DeSoto. Getting into the car she sighs, "And I'm still not done with my homework" Starting the car Spike asks, "What do you have to do, ducks?" As the car barrels out of the school parking lot Buffy answers, "I have to read Edgar Allan Poe's 'The Tell Tale Heart' and write a brief paper on the stories theme. I also have to read about the 1920s and Industrializational differences of England and the US. I hate writing papers I wish I didn't have to do the history reading. I mean come on I wasn't even alive then do I care about the differences in industry between England and the US?" It then dawns on her, "Spike?" she asks slyly "What pet?" he answers warily "You've been around a long time. You know about life in the 1920s plus your English" Buffy says hopefully "No way Slayer. I am not going to do homework. I didn't do it when I was mortal and I'm not going to do it now" Spike protests firmly as they pull into the driveway beside Joyces car. "Please Spike" Buffy begs as they head into the house "No way Slayer. I may have agreed to protect you but I never agreed to do your homework" Spike retorts. "Whats going on?" asks Joyce as the two enter the kitchen "Mom Spike won't help me with my homework" Buffy whines putting her bag down she sits at the counter. "And Spike why don't you want to help Buffy with her homework?" Joyce inquires Spike scowls, "Because Mum she's the bloody Slayer she can do it herself.' seeing the pleading look on Buffy's face Spike sighs, "All right Slayer I'll help you with your bloody homework" Spike agrees throwing his hands up in the air. The two once enemies head into the family room and sit on the couch. "Lets start with history" Spike says opening the history book. He proceeds to tell Buffy about what life was like in the 20s for the next hour. Buffy then asks questions and summarize what Spike had told her. "OK now the English" Spike announces, "Have you read the book?" he asks Buffy looks away sheepishly. "Um yeah" "Slayer" Spike growls warningly his eyes flashing "All right' admits Buffy, 'I haven't finished it. I have a chapter and a half left" Groaning Spike picks up the book, "Bloody hell' he groans, 'It'll be faster if I read it out loud to you" Spike says opening the book he begins to read. Spike finishes reading the chapter and a half in thirty minutes. Putting the book down he says, "All right Slayer do you...." he trails off when he realizes that the Slayer had fallen asleep next to him. He hears Joyces footsteps entering the room. "She asleep?" Joyce asks Spike nods, "She fell asleep as I was reading' Spike answers, 'Mum do you want me to take her up to her room?" Spike asks "Sure Spike.' Joyce says. As Spike picks Buffy up Joyce continues, 'Spike thanks for helping us out here. I know its hard for you...I mean you two are enemies and stuff." Spike shrugs, "Its OK. I kinda like the Slayer she has guts. She's annoying but she has guts" Spike remarks as he carries Buffy up to her room. Putting her on the bed he leaves Joyce to take care of Buffy and returns downstairs. Seeing the book, 'The Tell Tale Heart' Spike realizes that Buffy hadn't yet written her paper. Sighing Spike decides to write the paper for her. "I must be really bored to be doing this" For the next hour Spike writes Buffy's paper on the theme of 'The Tell Tale Heart' grumbling as he does. When he is done Joyce joins him in the living room. "Spike why are you writing Bufy's paper?" she asks sitting down Spike shrugs, "Don't know Mum. I guess I am bloody bored." Shaking her head Joyce replies, "Spike you are a big softy" "Am not" he denies hotly. Seeing the look of disbelief on Joyce's face he sighs, "All right, I am. Just don't tell anyone" Chuckling Joyce promises to keep the vampire's secret. "Spike I forgot to tell Buffy before she went to sleep, but I am leaving town tomorrow. I'm going to an art auction in San Diego, I'll be gone for two nights." Spike nods in acknowledgement, "Sure Mum. I'll watch the Slayer. I'll try and keep her out of trouble" "Good. I want both of you to get along I don't want to come home to find the house ashes.' she turns around and heads towards the stairs. Stopping she remembers to that she needed to tell Spike something else. "Also Spike I need a favor" Joyce asks "What Mum?" Spike asks "Tomorrow evening at 6 Buffy has a doctors appointment. Normally Mr. Giles or I would go with her. Mr. Giles has a meeting at school. I was wondering if you could go with her" Joyce requests Spike groans inaudibly, "Sure Mum. I'll take the Slayer to her appointment." "She hates going to the doctor Spike. You have my permission to force her to go. She'll say anything to get out of having to go. Don't believe her though." "OK Mum. Where is the doc's office?" Spike asks "She's a friend of Mr. Giles who knows about Buffy being the Slayer. Her office is on Pine and 5th" "I'll get her there' Spike promises, 'We might be late because the sun will barely be down but she'll be there" "Thank you Spike. I really appreciate it" Joyce remarks starting up the stairs Staring after the Slayer's mother Spike groans in disbelief at what just happened. "I need a smoke,' he groans. Getting up he heads to the back yard for a smoke. As he lights up his cell phone rings. Pressing the talk button he growls, "Hello Peaches" "So Spike how did it go?" Angel inquires on the other end "Fine' Spike answers taking a drag, 'The Slayer went to school. I watched the telly. Picked the Slayer up after school and helped her with her homework. She's asleep now" "You two spent time together without killing each other?" Angel asks in disbelief "Yeah Peaches. Both of us are still alive' Spike snaps, 'After this weekend who knows if we will be alive" Spike groans Hearing that Angel demands, "what do you mean?" Spike takes a drag before answering, "The Slayer's Mum is going away for a few days. She asked me to babysit the Slayer" Stunned Angel asks, "Joyce? Joyce is leaving you to watch Buffy?!" Angel growls Chuckling at the sound of his sire growling in anger Spike remarks, "Don't worry Peaches. The Slayer will be fine. I won't let anything happen to her or the midgets. After all they are my brother and sister" he laughs "You better take care of them Spike. Otherwise I will stake you" Angel growls warningly "I will take care of them' Spike promises. 'You know Poof you might think of calling the Slayer tomorrow night" Spike suggests, 'She wants to hear from you mate. She misses you" "I miss her too' Angel remarks his voice sad. 'Maybe I will call her. Look Spike I'll talk with you later" Angel says hanging up. "Bloody fool' Spike mutters at his phone as he hangs up. Spike stabs out his cigarette then glances at the house and sees that the lights are all out. Going back inside he writes the Summers women a quick note and grabs the house keys. Closing the backdoor he locks it and walks down the street. Heading towards the cemetary to see if he can find any action he comes across Faith fighting a fledgling. Spike watches the dark haired Slayer fight. When she finishes he applauds enthusiastically. "Brava Slayer" Faith turns around and grins at the blond vampire saucily. "So Spike hows it going?" Spike shrugs, "The Slayer and her Mum are in bed and I felt like getting in a fight so I thought I'd look for one" "Wanna fight me?" Faith asks "Sorry can't. I promised the Slayer I wouldn't hurt anyone' he replies disgustedly. 'But she never said I can't kill any vampires" he grins. The unlikely partners head off in search of vampires. Part 12
The next evening after sun down Spike arrives at the school library to pick Buffy up. "Hey Slayer' he greets entering. 'You ready?" Sighing Buffy stands up, 'Yeah Spike I am. Do I have to go?" she whines grabbing her backpack Giles exits his office. "Buffy we've been through this. You have to go to Doctor Jones." "I know' Buffy whines, 'but I don't wanna" she grumps "Your Mum said that I have permission to forcefully drag you. And I will" Spike growls threateningly. "Fine' Buffy grumbles walking out the library doors. "Spike? Thank you for taking her" Giles says to the British vampire. Spike nods in acknowledgement and follows Buffy out to his car. Getting into the car Spike starts the car and peals out of the parking lot. "Spike slow down' Buffy grimaces, 'If you get us killed I am so going to kill you" she growls Spike slows the car down as he reaches the doctors office. "See Slayer I got you here alive" he says smugly as he turns the car off. "Have fun" Spike smirks as Buffy gets out of the car. She glares at the vampire and starts to close the car door. She stops and asks quietly, "Spike?" "What pet?" he demands impatiently Twisting her ring nervously Buffy shyly asks, "Will you come with me? I really hate going to the doctors and you could keep my mind off it" Sighing Spike hesitantly agrees and gets out of the car. He follows Buffy up to the office door. "Remember Spike be good" Buffy orders "Scouts honor Slayer" Spike smirks "Somehow I doubt you where ever a scout,' she frowns thoughtfully, 'Then again I don't think the scouts were around when you were a kid.' She looks at Spike puzzeled, 'Were they?" "Not that I recall pet. Then again I was poor." Spike remarks opening the door for Buffy. Spike closes the door shut as he follows Buffy inside. Spike sits on the couch as Buffy checks in. Moments later she sits beside him and fidgets. "Calm down Slayer" Spike smirks, 'Why are you so nervous?" "I hate going to the doctors. I know I should be glad that I have one but they make me nervous. Before now it was because I hated the exam. Now' she frowns, 'Now, I worry that everytime I come in the doctor is going to tell me that something is wrong with one of the babies. It scares me Spike" she admits Thinking it over Spike decides to offer the Slayer some calming news. "Slayer I can tell you that nothing is wrong with the babies" "How do you know?" Buffy asks suspiciously Spike points to his ear, "I hear their heart beats" "oh,' Buffy nods, 'Thank you Spike" the two sit there silently, 'Hey Spike will you come in with me?" Buffy requests Spike looks at the Slayer surprised, "Are you sure Slayer?" Buffy looks at Spike her eyes wide with hope, "Please Spike' she begs, 'Besides Spike you are their brother, in a way. And I guess in a way having you there would be like having a second set of eyes when she does the sonogram." Spike sighs, "All right Slayer. If it makes you feel better I'll come in" The nurse then calls Buffy's name. Spike follows Buffy into the exam room. Spike sits down and picks up a magazine. "The last time I was with a doctor and not eating him was over two hundred years ago" he muses "And I take it that its changed a lot since you were alive" Buffy remarks sitting up on the exam table "Your right pet. Things have changed alot since I was alive" Spike agrees. He then hears footsteps coming towards the door. "Doctors coming" he remarks. A second later the door opens and in walks the doctor. "Hello Buffy.' the doctor greets, 'How are you doing today?" she asks "Fine Dr. Jones.' gesturing to Spike she introduces, 'Dr. Jones this is Spike. Spike this is Dr. Jones" "Spike?" Dr. Jones asks amused "Its a nickname' Buffy explains, 'His real name is William" "Bloody Hell Slayer" Spike grumbles "So Spike knows you the Slayer?" "Um yes. Spike is kind of a friend of the family." Buffy lies "Well its nice to meet you Spike.' Turning her attention back to Buffy the doctor says, 'You ready for the sonogram?" "Yes. I have waited all day' Buffy remarks lifting up her shirt to expose her belly Spike looks up from the magazine and chuckles, "Slayer your huge" Buffy growls at Spike, "Shut up" "Well you are" he smirks. He watches as the doctor puts the gel on Buffy's abdomen. "OK' the doctor says picking up the wand. 'OK. Here you go' she says pointing at the screen, 'There are the twins" "Hey Spike check this out" Buffy says excitedly. Spike moves to Buffy's side and sees the screen image. "Cool huh?" "There is your son,' Dr. Jones points to an image. 'He looks well. And there is your little girl.' she points to the other form. 'she seems well. Both of them seem healthy I see nothing to worry about." Buffy looks questioningly at Spike. He shakes his head in response. "So doc everything is all right?" Buffy asks "Yes Buffy. Your pregnancy is going as scheduled. Now we have to discuss one other issue" "What?" Buffy asks chewing on her lip nervously "Buffy its nothing to really worry about. I am talking about when you go into labor. I worry that when you go into labor that you will crush your coaches hand" "Giles mentioned that possiblility. He is also worried about it. But the problem is who? I mean their father isn't able to. With everyone else I'd end up crushing their hands" "And why not their father? You haven't mentioned much about him" the doctor probes. Buffy twists her ring nervously, "We broke up. He has somethings to deal with and so he won't be around" she sniffs Spike adds grumpily, "He's a bloody wanker" "Spike" Buffy growls warningly "Okay then. We will have to find someway to get around it" Dr. Jones remarks, 'Buffy I will see you next week. Spike it was nice to meet you" she says leaving the exam room. Spike and Buffy are left alone in the room. "Slayer the doc doesn't know about Angel?" "No Spike' Buffy answers getting off the table. 'Giles, Mom and I thought it would be for the best if she didn't know" "Why pet?" "She still has ties to the Council. The Council knows about Angel but they don't know that he's their father. We told them the father disappeared and is presumed dead" "Not that far off are they" Spike chuckles, "You ready to head home?" Buffy nods, "I need to make next weeks appointment" The head out to the reception area and Buffy makes her next appointment. "Lets get going. I have homework to do and I want to take a nice long hot shower" the two head out to the car and return to the Summers house. Pulling into the driveway Spike and Buffy get out of the car. As he walks up to the front door Spike becomes alert to the sound of growling. Turning he sees Buffy right behind him also alert to vampires nearby. He growls out, 'Slayer go inside" Buffy protests, "But Spike" "Now" Spike growls pushing Buffy towards the stairs. After he hears Buffy enter the house he turns around to face five vampires. "Hello mates" he greets "Spike what are you doing here?" demands one of the vampires "Nothing mates. Now I suggest you leave" he growls "Why Spike? So you can make friends with the Slayer" another asks rushing Spike. Spike flips the vampire and throws him. Buffy opens the front door and stands in the doorway with her crossbow. "Hey Fang Gang hows the game" she says letting one of the arrows fly nailing one of the vampires in the heart. "I told you to stay inside" Spike growls staking a vampire. Buffy and Spike finish off the three vampires. "Damn it Slayer. I told you to stay inside" Spike growls as he stalks towards the Slayer. Buffy goes back into the house. "Spike I had to" "You had to?' he yells, 'Damn it Slayer I had it under control. You shouldn't have come out. You could have gotten yourself hurt" "I'm sorry Spike." Buffy apologizes again "Next time when I tell you to do something then do it." "God Spike chill" Buffy retorts, 'I'm fine we're fine. I'm going to go take a shower" Buffy says walking up the stairs, "Get the phone if it rings" she calls. Buffy goes into the bathroom and turns on the shower. Looking into the mirror she grimaces at her image. "Man I look terrible" she strokes her belly gently. Buffy gets into the shower and stands under the water thinking.
Chapter 13/? Downstairs Spike goes into the kitchen and takes a blood pack out of the the fridge. Heading into the living room he turns on the tv. After watching TV for thirty minutes the phone rings. 'Hello?" he answers. "Spike is Buffy there?" Angel asks "Just a sec Peaches. She's upstairs.' Spike remarks. Spike heads upstairs. Hearing the showers off he goes to Buffy's door. 'Hey Slayer' he knocks, 'phone.' Not getting an answer thinking she's mad at him he calls, 'Slayer I'm sorry for yelling at you earlier.' not getting an answer he tries again. 'Fine Slayer Peaches is on the phone.' he calls with a grin. Buffy opens the door and sees Spike holding the phone. "Spike?" she holds her hand out for the phone. Spike holds the phone out of her reach. "Give me the phone Spike" she yells impatiently "Not until you say please" Spike taunts "Spike you Billy Idol wanna be give me the phone now" Buffy yells kicking Spike in the shin. Spike swears angrily dropping his grasp on the phone. "Damn it Slayer that hurt" Spike whines as Buffy slams her bedroom door shut in his face. Leaning wearily against the closed she grips the phone tightly. "Angel?" she says tentatively stroking her abdomen thoughtfully "Hi Buff.' Angel greets, 'How are you?" he asks Walking to her bed and leaning against the headboard Buffy answers, 'I miss you Angel" she says tearfully "I miss you too' Angel reciprocates. 'how are the babies?" he asks hesitantly Smiling tenderly at the mention of the babies she answers, "Great. We had a doctors appointment this evening. The doctor said their great. I'm great. She's a little worried about the me in labor thing and crushing someones hand" "well Buffy she has a point. You could crush someone's hand without realizing it." "I know' she sighs "Buffy whats wrong?" Angel asks concerned Chewing her lip she answers tentatively, "Angel I wish you were here." "I wish I was too" he agrees. 'How is everything at school?" Buffy pouts, "The troll Snyder keeps after me about school. Everytime I see him he grunts his disapproval or makes some sort of remark about teenagers. The other students react the same way that they did before. Giles and everyone are being totally overprotective. Spike and Faith are the only two so far to not boss me around" she complains "Buffy Giles and everyone just cares alot about you and the twins. Spike and Faith just don't seem to be the type to worry" "I know. Spike's mad at me right now" she complains "Why? Spike rarely gets mad unless its warranted" Angel waits for an answer. "Buffy" he demands Sighing she reluctantly answers, "He's mad because I um didn't listen when he told me to do something" "Well what was the situation?" Angel asks "After we got home we had visitors. He ordered me inside and I didn't stay in" "Buffy' Angel says angrily, 'You should have listened to him. You could have gotten hurt or even killed!" "I know Angel. Its just something told me that I had to help him. It was like I had no choice some other force drove me to help him" she explains Thinking over her words Angel replies, "I know what you mean' he pauses, 'Buffy I have something I need to tell you' Angel begins, 'Last week I had a dream that you were attacked. In the dream whoever attacked you left you alive but' he pauses, 'they killed the babies" he finishes Gasping fearfully Buffy strokes her abdomen. "Angel?!" she cries Hearing her cry Angel feels his heart tear. "After the dream someone or something told me that you and the twins needed Spike to watch over you" Stunned momentarily Buffy demands, "Damn it Angel you should have told me before!" "I couldn't Buffy. I knew if I did you'd protest" Angel replies "You're right Angel I would have protested. Not because Spike came here but because you didn't. Angel you sent Spike instead of coming here yourself!" "Buffy you know I can't" Angel protests "Angel I know your worried that being with us will cause you to lose your soul. God I worry about that everyday that when the twins are born' she rubs her belly, 'I'll lose you again. Angel I don't want to lose you the thought of losing you terrifies me. They need you Angel. I need you." she whimpers "You won't lose me Buffy. I promise." "Can you hold on?' Buffy asks "Sure" Angel listens as Buffy's bed shifts "OK I'm back' she says, 'My back hurts" she complains "I'm sorry baby" Angel says sympathetically "Angel' she begins, 'I want you to be there with me when they're born. Please?" "Buffy I don't know" Angel sighs "Please Angel at least think about it.' Buffy begs, 'Angel I really want you to be there...I need you to be there." "I want to be there Buffy. I really do. I want to be with you now and when the twins are born. I want to be there and hold your hand. God Buffy I want to be there so bad. Every morning when I fall asleep I imagine you holding them after they are born. But then I remember when you told me you were pregnant and how guilty I felt for almost killing you and them." "It wasn't your fault' Buffy insists, 'I never blamed you for any of it. Did I ever tell you what my first thought was when I found out I was pregnant?" "No you didn't" "I was glad and hopeful that I would get you back. I kept seeing you holding our baby Angel in every dream. The only time I ever resented or even hated the fact I was pregnant was the day you left us. Then I realized you were trying to do what was best for all of us. But I hate that Angel. I hate the fact that because you wanted to do what was best for us you left. In my mind I also wondered if you would have left if I wasn't pregnant. Later I realized that it didn't matter worrying like that because sooner or later something would have happened and I would have lost you anyway. At least this way I still have a part of you." "I want to be with you so bad Buffy.' Angel sighs mournfully, "I want to be with them too" The two are momentarily silent Buffy lays on her bed feeling the movements of the twins. "Speaking of them.' she begins, 'Angel they need names. We can't keep refering to the babies as them or the twins." "Well what do you want to name them?" Angel inquires "No way buster. You are going to help name them. There is no way you are getting out of it" Buffy states firmly "I didn't say I want to get out of it." Angel protests. "Its just I haven't really been able to think about naming them. Have you thought of any names?" "I thought of ones I like but so far I haven't come up with any high up names.' She giggles "What?" Giggling Buffy answers, "I was just thinking of what Xander suggested" Groaning Angel remarks, 'I bet his suggestion was to name the boy son of Deadboy and the girl Vampgirl." "Angel' Buffy says disapprovingly, 'You know Xander wouldn't say that. You two might not get along but Xander has been behaving." "He better behave around the twins" Angel growls Rolling her eyes in annoyance Buffy continues, 'Anyway Xander suggested we name them Alexander and Alexandra" she giggles "No way. We are not naming them after the guy who refers to me as Deadboy" Angel growls "Angel calm down' Buffy soothes. She gasps in surprise as the twins both kick her in the side. "Buffy you OK?" Angel asks worriedly when he hears her gasp Chuckling she replies, "I'm fine Angel. They just kicked me hard' rubbing her side she groans jokingly, 'One day I could end up with a broken rib because they kick hard. Angel?' she asks "Yeah?" "Where are you?" she asks curiously On the other end Angel stands up and walks to the window and gazes out at the lights of LA. "If your asking if I'm in Sunnydale I'm not Buff." "Are you still in California?" she inquires Grinning at the question Angel answers, "Of course. I didn't want to be too far from you. I had thought about going back to New York...but I couldn't" "Couldn't?" she questions softly "No. I didn't want to be that far from you." "Angel are you ever going to see us?" Buffy asks seriously Sighing Angel twists his ring thoughtfully, "I will Buffy. I promise. I want to meet them and hold them and you" "I wish you were here now with me.' she rubs her midsection affectionately, 'Feeling them move Angel is amazing." "I wish I was Buff. But I'm not. I'm sorry that I'm not there." "I know and its all because you thought you were doing the best for us.' she remarks bitterly, 'But is it really for the best Angel? I mean for the rest of their lives they are going to resent the fact that you left. When they are older they are probably going to end up blaming themselves for you not being here" "Buffy thats not fair' Angel protests, 'You know its for the best that I left Sunnydale. Its not like I'm abandoning them Buffy" "Yes but Angel they will feel like you have. You won't be there for them everyday Angel" Rubbing his forehead Angel in agitation he protests, "I won't be there everyday Buffy but I will be there when you need me or when they need me. You know that I'm always going to be there for you" Sniffling Buffy curls up on her bed, "But you aren't Angel. You aren't here now. And I need you. They need you. I try not to think of the future, I think of now. Right now when we need you the most you aren't here" she sobs "Buffy don't cry" Angel soothes, "I'm sorry Buffy" he apologizes "Don't be sorry Angel. I don't want you to be. I just want you here" Buffy chokes up and then hangs up. Curling up tighter she sobs out her pain Chapter 14/? In LA Angel looks at his phone in surprise. Pushing redial he waits for Buffy to pick up. "Come on Buff' he mutters. Not getting an answer he hits redial again. In Sunnydale Spike is watching tv. Growling at the sound of the phone ringing he yells, 'Slayer are you going to get the bloody phone?" Not getting an answer he returns his attention to the tv when the phone rings again. "Bloody hell' he growls picking up the phone, 'What?" "Let me talk to Buffy" Angel orders "Bloody hell Peaches' Spike growls "Spike" Angel growls warningly "All right' Spike grumbles. He heads up the stairs. 'Slayer the phones for you" he calls through the door "If its Angel I don't want to talk to him." Buffy yells back "Sorry Peaches you heard her' Spike laughs walking down the stairs "Spike' Angel begins, 'Spike when is Joyce going to be home?" "She called while the Slayer was at school. She won't be home until Wednesday" Hearing that Angel makes a split moment decision. "Spike I'm coming down. I'll be there in a few hours" "The Slayer will be pissed" Spike comments "Spike don't tell her" "Why not?" "Because I want to surprise her." Angel answers hanging up Staring at the dead phone Spike grumbles. "Bloody hell Peaches. If she finds out I know she'll bloody stake me. But then again her finding him here could end up to be a great battle" he smirks hanging up the phone and returns to his show. Buffy meanwhile cries herself to sleep. *****A few hours later***** Angel pulls into the Summers driveway. Anxious he watches the lights from the living room flicker and the darkened window of Buffy's room. Getting out of the car he strolls up to the front door and knocks quietly. Inside Spike senses his sire's presence. Hearing the knock on the door he gets up and answers the door. "Hey Peaches" he greets opening the door for Angel's enterance. "Where is she?" he demands entering "What no hi Spike? how ya doing?" Hearing Angel growl Spike answers, "All right Peaches. She's upstairs asleep" "Thanks' Angel says heading up the stairs he opens Buffy's bedroom door quietly and enters. Walking to the edge of the bed he sits down gazing down at his beloved. Gently he moves her hair out of her face trailing his fingers down her cheek. He listening closely he makes out three heart beats one more pronounce than the others. He hears her breathing become more alert as she drowsily opens her eyes. Opening her eyes drowsily she tentatively says, "Angel?" Smiling slightly Angel replies, "Yeah its me" Sitting up as quickly as a pregnant woman can she throws her arms around his neck and hugs him hard. "Angel what are you doing here?" she asks tearfully as she pulls away and looks at his face. Smiling sadly he responds, "I came to see you' he places his hand on her belly gently, 'and them." "I'm sorry for hanging up on you' Buffy apologizes, 'I just felt..." she trails off "No Buffy you were right. I need to be apart of their lives even if I'm not here everyday. Its something that they need...we need. I love you Buff. I love our babies too" he kisses her "How long are you going to be here?" Buffy asks anxiously Angel toes off his boots and leans against the headboard pulling Buffy close. "I can't stay Buffy" "I know you can't stay" she sighs, "But I'm glad your here now" "I'm glad too,' Angel says softly kissing her head, 'I just wish I didn't have to leave" he says mournfully Sitting partially up she touches his face tenderly. "I'n a way you'll always be here. I may not be able to see you...but I'll be able to see you in our babies' as she says that she feels the excited movements of the babies. Smiling brightly at Angel she takes his hand and placing it on her belly. "Angel they want their Daddy's attention" she giggles at the look of fascination on his face Angel grins at the feeling of his children moving. "You're right Buffy, they are strong" he says awed "Just like their Daddy' she says proudly. She moves back to recline against him, she snuggles closer to him. They lay there silently for awhile as they feel the movements of their children. "Angel?" she asks hesitantly. He grunts in response. Linking their hands Buffy asks curiously, "Angel before you were changed...did you want to have kids?" Angel sits there and thinks back to his mortal life. "I'm not really sure,' he admits, 'I mean if I had found someone I loved and wanted to have kids with then yes. But I never found that someone until the day I first saw you, the day you became the Slayer. When I was alive I would have wanted to live forever. But now that I will live forever...I would give it up for mortality. To be able to live a normal life with you and our miracles,' he strokes her belly, 'is my dream. A dream that will never come true" "Maybe one day it will come true,' Buffy remarks hopefully as she turns her head to look at him. 'Maybe one day we will be able to live a normal life a normal family" Angel sighs sadly at her words. "Maybe...but Buffy I want you to promise me that you'll never get your hopes up or theirs" Angel requests "Why not? Angel we deserve to have these hopes. I mean if I dwelled on the fact that we may never be together...as a family then I'll never be able to survive. I'll never be happy" Angel tightens his hold on Buffy. "Buffy promise me something." She nods. "Promise me that you'll try to be happy without me" "God Angel you know I can't promise you that" she cries "Listen I want you to promise me that you'll try to go ahead with having a normal life. I want you to be happy. Buffy I need you to be happy" "I am happy" she protests "No you aren't Buffy and you won't be if you can't move on to have a normal life. Find a normal guy who can take you and the twins to the parks and watch them play. A guy who can step outside without bursting into flames. Someone who will be with you as you get older" "Angel I am happy. I don't want a normal guy I want you. If your telling that I need to find a normal guy to take the twins to the park then I have three answers Oz, Xander, and Giles. As for finding a guy who won't burst into flames then how about finding a guy who can't get shot, won't die in a car accident. Angel the world is full of things that can kill a normal guy. At least with you I don't have to worry about who will be with the twins if I die. You'll always be there for them. Angel I don't want a normal guy...I want the guy I love. And let me remind you that you are the guy I love" she says angrily her eyes filling with tears Angel hugs her, "Buffy I'm trying to do whats right here. I know it seems like I'm pushing you away but I'm not I'm trying to allow you to live a normal life. The life you deserve. I love you Buffy I always will. I want the best for you and the twins. The best just happens to be me wanting you to find someway to live a normal life." Buffy pushes him away and wipes her tears "Are you telling me that even though we love each other you don't want to give us a try...as somewhat of a family" she says touching her abdomen Angel leans his forehead against her, "Buffy we are a family of sorts even if we aren't together. I promise that we always will be. I'll visit them when their older they can come visit me. You and me together is too much of a temptation. Buffy I can't put us through that again especially since we are going to have two innocent people who will depend on us. If it happens again Buffy they will be caught in the crossfire, again. I can't deal with the idea that if it happens I could hurt them and you. Please Buffy I need you to understand why I'm doing these things saying these things. I'm trying to protect you from the possibilities" "I know its just hard. When we're apart its like I'm missing a part of myself and I don't like it" "Either do I" Angel agrees, "but it has to be done" "I know. Not just for our sakes but for theirs' She leans against the headboard, 'Just promise me Angel that no matter what happens in the future that you won't be like my father." Angel puts his hand on her belly, "I promise I will always be there for them no matter what. I have waited this long to have a family I am not going to end up disappointing them" Angel lays next to Buffy and puts his ear against her abdomen listening to the heartbeats. Speaking quietly against her stomach he whispers, 'I promise that I will always be here for you." He lays his head back down on Buffy's belly. Buffy feels tears falling down her cheeks as she hears Angel's tender words. She gently strokes his dark hair as they are silent. Soon Angel realizes that Buffy is asleep tenderly Angel moves her under the covers and kisses her forehead. Not wanting to leave her but needing to clear his head he heads downstairs to find Spike still watching TV. "So Peaches did you and the Slayer patch things up?" he asks his attention still on the TV. Angel sits down on the recliner, "A little. She and I talked" "Your still leaving again" Spike says Angel nods sadly, "I have to Spike. I can't stay here you know that. No matter how much I want to I can't. Spike thank you for being there for her these few days" Spike looks at Angel, "Peaches when you were upstairs with Buffy did' Spike asks hesitantly, 'did you feel I don't know a powerful presence" Angel thinks back, "I'm not sure. I mean I could have but thought it as the reaction I have towards Buffy. Why?" "I get a feeling similiar to the one that alerts me to when you or Dru are around. But theirs is different more intense. I can't explain it" "It is possible that they do have the same alert system we have. But is it only towards us? or is it towards other vampires as well?" Angel wonders, "It could have been because I sired you and that sense passed onto them. Or it could have just been the powerful presence that innocents have" "It could be" Spike reasons Angel looks up to see Buffy walking down the stairs. "Buffy what are you doing up?" he asks concerned "Hi Angel' she greets drowsily, 'I woke up you were gone. I came down to see where you were" she explains rubbing her eyes sleepily "Bed' Angel orders standing up, 'Now" "But Angel" she whines. Angel takes Buffy's hand and leads her to the stairs, "You are going to bed. I happen to know that you haven't been sleeping enough." "Don't do anything I would do" Spike advises with a smirk. "Shut up Spike" Buffy replies. Angel takes Buffy back to her bedroom and tucks her back into bed. 'Angel will you stay with me tonight?" she asks "I'm not going anywhere tonight or tomorrow." Angel replies lying down beside her he pulls her back against his chest. "Thats good' Buffy says drowsily, 'Angel Love you" "Love you too Buff" he whispers, 'And you two" he says placing his hand on her belly. Angel listens as the Slayer falls asleep and he soon he follows.
Chapter 15/? Mid morning Angel is awakened by the urgent movements of the twins. Smiling faintly against Buffy's hair he lays there just enjoying the feeling of their movements. Soon Buffy also wakes up and together the two lovers lay there silent as they enjoy the activity of the babies. After awhile they hear familiar footsteps pounding up the stairs. Angel growls in annoyance as Spike barges into the bedroom "Hello Poof, Slayer' he greets cheerfully "Shut up Spike" Buffy snaps, "And get out of my room" she orders Spike leans against the door frame, "Tsk, tsk Slayer. I wonder how mum would react if she found out you were rude to her favorite vampire" Buffy sits up, "If you even think that she'd think I was rude for telling you to get out of my room, then how would she react if she found out you didn't even knock" Buffy smirks, "And stop calling her mum" she adds as an after thought "I can call Joyce mum if I want to Slayer" Spike retorts "I should have staked you when I had the chance" Buffy grumbles "Like you could" Spike snorts "I can too" Buffy argues Angel holds up his hand. "Stop!' he orders, 'Spike what do you want?" "I came up here to tell the Slayer that there is nothing left to eat. And I am getting hungry" he whines "Then go get it yourself' Buffy says angrily "Not bloody likely Slayer' Spike replies, 'I don't want to be a roasted vampire. You go get it" "I want you roasted toasted flamed' Buffy says sweetly, 'And I'm not going." "How am I gonna eat" Spike whines Buffy shrugs, "I guess I could call Faith. I'd call Willow or Xander but they could get into trouble" "Oooh send Scrappy." Spike says excitedly as Buffy picks up the phone "Shut up Spike' she says, 'Hey Faith" she greets "B do you know what time it is?" Faith asks sleepily "Yes Faith its morning. Have a busy night?" Buffy inquires "Bloody hell Slayer' Spike whines, 'I'm hungry" "Shut up Spike before I stake you' Buffy retorts. 'Sorry Faith but Peroxide Boy is hungry and he won't get out of my room" Faith laughs, 'Gee B another vampire in your room" "Actually its two" Buffy admits "Spike stop whining" Angel says "I'm not whining you poof" "Two huh? I take either you have a new vamp in your life or Angel's in town" Faith summarizes "Uh the latter" Buffy admits, 'I need a favor. Can you go get some blood from Willie?" "Sure B. What kind?" Faith asks "Just a sec' Buffy turns to the two bickering vampires, 'Hey you two put your arguing on hold for a sec. Faith wants to know what your preference is" "Mines human" Spike smirks "You are not getting human blood Spike" Angel growls "Why not?" Spike whines "Because I said so" Angel answers "Come on you two' Buffy probes, 'What do you want?" "Any" Angel says "Same.' Spike sighs, 'but make sure Willie has fresh" he adds Rolling her eyes Buffy says, "Faith, they want any kind...but not human. And fresh." "Anything else B?" Faith asks "Um ooh can you stop off and pick up a mushroom and liver sandwhich at the deli?" "Sure B. But how am I gonna pay for it? I'm broke" "Threaten Willie and he'll pay for the blood. Borrow some money from him and tell him to put it on...' she grins mischeaviously at Angel, 'Spike's tab" "What??" Spike demands, 'There is no way I am gonna pay for your cravings Slayer" "I'll give you the money to pay it" Angel promises "All right B. I'll be there in 30 minutes" Faith says hanging up Hanging up the phone Buffy turns to Spike. "Now get out of my room" she orders angrily "Fine' Spike says, 'Enjoy" he says closing the door behind him as Buffy throws the pillow at the door. Buffy sits on the bed and leans against the headboard. Angel lays on the bed propping his head up on one hand while the other hand lays on Buffy's belly. Watching Angel intense look Buffy says, 'You know every night I wished you were here beside me feeling this incredible act" "It is incredible" Angel agrees looking up at her, 'I wish I had the courage to come here earlier. I was scared and I guess I wasn't ready to face you...I thought you'd hate me" he admits "Never my Angel. I couldn't hate you" Buffy insists. She frowns in confusion, "Why would you think I'd hate you?" Angel looks away his mind going back in time. "For the things I've done to you and your friends. One of the things I feared most was that you'd be angry over the fact that you've lost a lot at such a young age." "Angel I may have lost a lot in my life but I've gained more since we met. So what I got expelled from school, my parents divorced, friends have died, I have almost died many times, the Master killing me, Spike trying to, losing you... twice, and lets not forget my last 4 birthdays.' she strokes his hair as she talks, 'but look at all I have gained. I have my friends, my mom is more understanding, you and I met, you and Xander saved my life, then you've saved my life and my friends lives many times, you've helped Giles keep from killing me for almost getting killed. Angel you have done so much for me and given me so much. I mean you were always there for me even when I was at my bitchiest. Angel you have given me the most important things ever your love and our babies." she finishes "But Buffy your so young to have children. You have given up a lot of your future at such a young age" Buffy places her hand over Angel's and laces their fingers. "Angel, you know that a Slayer's life span is short. This may be the only chance I have to have kids but I want them Angel. I want them not just because this might be my only chance to ever have kids but I have the chance to have them with you. And in someways its the closest I'll ever have to being someone other than the Slayer" Angel kisses her hand, "Do you ever wonder how this ended up happening? Not just the twins but us meeting?" "It was fate.' she laughs, 'It had to be after all I'm a Slayer who loves a soulled vampire. Add into the mix that I'm pregnant by a vampire then you know that it was all fated to happen. We don't know why but I know I am never going to question the fact it happened" "Neither am I.' Angel agrees. 'But Buffy that night in the graveyard I thought it wasn't possible for a vampire to have kids I meant it" "I know Angel" Buffy says sitting up as the front door rings, 'Ooh Faith's here" she says. Angel stands up and pulls Buffy up. The two head downstairs to find Xander, Willow, Oz, and Cordelia in the hallway. "Bloody hell' Spike whines, 'I thought it was Faith with my breakfast. If I had known it was them I wouldn't have answered the door" he grumbles returning to the couch. "But I would have let them in" Buffy remarks coming down the stairs with Angel right behind. Xander sees Angel and his jaw drops open in surprise, "Uuuh' he swallows, 'What is Deadboy doing here?" he asks angrily "Angel came to visit" Buffy answers "Hi Angel" Willow greets shyly "Hi Willow. I heard that your magic is going great" Angel says Willow nods, "Yeah I'm learning all sorts of cool spells" "But she still hasn't found the spell to turn the rat Amy back into the human Amy" Spike snickers "Hey I'm trying its just taking a while" Willow protests "But you are getting to be good at it" Oz compliments "So Deadboy here to stay?" Xander questions "No I'm only here for a few days" Angel answers "So are you two back together again?" Cordelia asks sitting down next to Xander "No" Buffy answers leaning against Angel. Angel wraps his arms around her waist. "It looks like you are" Cordelia remarks The doorbell rings. "I'll get it" Spike volunteers jumping up. He opens the door. "Hey Faith" he greets grabbing the brown paper bag from the dark haired Slayer "Hey Spike.' Faith says entering the house she closes the door. "Hey everyone" she greets entering. "B I got the sandwhich for you' she hands Buffy the bag. "Poof catch' Spike calls tossing a blood pack to his sire. Catching it Angel conscientious of the humans he heads into the kitchen. "I'm going to go get dressed" Buffy says, "Faith put the sandwhich in the fridge. You guys can eat whatever you can find" she offers heading upstairs Faith heads into the kitchen and puts the sandwhich in the fridge. Xander follows her in to confront Angel. "Deadboy why are you here?" Xander demands. Xander smacks his forehead, "Wait I know to torture Buffy even more" "Look Xander I am sorry for everything I did to everyone as Angelus. Especially for what I did to Buffy. You don't have to trust me Xander but believe me when I say that I would never do anything to hurt Buffy or the twins." "Well forgive me if I don't believe you" Xander snorts unbelievingly "I don't care if you do Xander" Angel replies "If you hurt her again Angel..." Xander trails off "I won't hurt her Xander" Angel says "If you do I will stake you" Faith threatens "I'll, I'll' Willow begins, 'I'll do something really unlike me if you do hurt Buffy" "If I hurt her again I will let you stake me" Angel compromises. They all nod in agreement "Hey Faith Passions is on" Spike calls from the living room "Coming' Faith calls, 'gotta go. Today Eve is going to freak out even more about some bird statue" she explains grabbing a box of cookies "Spike watches soaps?!?" Xander says shocked "I'm not surprised" Willow remarks. The others look at the red head strangely, "Hey its the hellmouth" she adds "True the Hellmouth can make you do anything" Cordelia reasons "Spike's always has been a little different" Angel says "I heard that" Spike yells "Good" Angel yells back "Stop yelling you two" Buffy calls down the stairs "OK" the two vampires call back "I can't believe Spike watches soaps" Xander laughs "Bloody hell what else do you expect me to do when I'm stuck inside all day" Spike remarks from the living room "How about jumping out the window" Buffy smirks coming down the stairs "Not bloody likely" Spike retorts "Then how about I throw you out" Buffy says sweetly "You wouldn't" Spike replies confidently "What makes you think that I wouldn't?" Buffy asks "Cause you love me" Spike smirks Buffy snorts in disgust, "Yeah right Spike. I can and I will...one day" she sighs wistfully. For the rest of the afternoon the gang and two vampires hangout talking trading insults and arguing. Finally around dinner time the Scooby Gang head home. Spike is starting to annoy Angel and Buffy. "Spike go to Willies" Angel says "Why?" Spike demands "Because you are annoying us" Buffy answers "All right.' Spike agrees. 'Maybe I'll run into Faith when she's patrolling. I could use a good fight" he muses picking up his duster and walks out the door "Finally' Buffy sighs curling up on the couch next to Angel, 'you know this is the first night since Spike got here that the house has been quiet?" "Spike can be a little obnoxious" Angel agrees Buffy sits up quickly, "I forgot to show you something" Buffy says excitedly getting up she goes over to her back pack on the dining room table. Riffling through some Buffy she finds what she is looking for and returns to the couch. Sitting next to Angel she hands him a paper "Whats this?" Angel asks "In class we read Romeo and Juliet. The teacher asked us to pick a theme from the story and write our thoughts and feelings on it. I wrote about how Juliet must have felt through the whole story. I kind of based it on how I felt through out our relationship" "I'm always proud of you Buffy. This A is excellent and I am so proud of you" Angel says kissing the top of her head "My teacher said she was moved by what I wrote" she says proudly "Mind if I read it?" Angel asks "No go ahead" Buffy says, "I'm going to go get something to eat" she stands up and heads into the kitchen leaving Angel to read the paper. Buffy is in the kitchen looking for something to eat. She finally decides on chocolate chip mint ice cream with raisins and whip cream. After dishing the ice cream she goes in search of the raisins. "OK I know there are raisins here somewhere" she rumbles opening doors and drawers. Finally she finds them in the desk drawer. "Ah ha' she says triumphantly, 'I found you" Buffy sprinkles the raisins and then sprays the whip cream on. Going back to the desk she notices that the sonogram picture is on the desk and sits at the counter and looks at the sonogram. Angel enters the kitchen and sits across from Buffy. "Buffy your paper is great" "Thank you" she replies, "I felt better about a lot of things after writing it. Not just towards our relationship but in some ways it helped me get things out over Pike. And in some sense I was able to work somethings out over my parents marriage." "I'm glad that writing the paper helped you process things." He says watching Buffy eat the ice cream. "Whats that?" Angel asks Buffy smiles and hands him the picture, "The sonogram picture from yesterday." Angel gazes thoughtfully at the picture. "They look so...innocent" "For now' Buffy jokes. Angel looks at her questioningly, 'Come on Angel. If you look at the fact of who we are then the babies will most likely be like us when they get older. Lets just hope they end up with your brains" "Come on Buff your smart" Angel protests Buffy shakes the spoon at him, "I am in certain ways. I'm more street smart then book smart. If they inherit my brains then there will be a lot of phone calls from the school saying one or both of them failed a test, skipped class, or beat someone up.' Buffy frowns. 'Something tells me that the principal is going to have me on speed dial." "Doesn't Snyder have your mom's work, cell, and home number on speed dial" Angel smirks "Very funny Angel" Buffy smiles. 'I wouldn't be surprised if he did" she sighs. They are silent as Buffy finishes her ice cream. Suddenly Buffy asks, "Angel you never told me what you were like as a little boy. You told me about just before you became a vampire but never about when you were little." Angel looks at Buffy surprised. "It was a long time ago Buffy. I remember very little." he says "Come on Angel you remember somethings." "I remember playing with my friends in the yard. One time when I was 12 my best friends Thomas, Michael, and I climbed old lady O'Ryan's fence. She had this lake that was surrounded by rocks.' he smiles at the memory, 'Everyonce in awhile we'd go there to swim. Anyway this one day Michael and Thomas were mad at me because they found out that I had kissed their 10 year old sister Mary Eileen behind their barn. Michael and Thomas talked me into going." "What happened?" Buffy asks curious Angel grins at the memory, "Like always we went to the edge to make sure that the water was deep enough. Michael came up behind me and said, 'Liam, Mary Eileen told us that ya kissed her.' Thomas came up behind me and shoved me into the muddy water and called, 'Liam me friend dontcha go kissin' on our sister.' When I got home my father punished me for being muddy' Angel stops talking. "Angel what happened?" Buffy questions "He punished me for being muddy, he took out the cane he used for punishments. Afterwards he locked me in the barn without blankets and still in my muddy clothes. It was freezing out and I spent the night out there. I was bruised, cold and wet. The next morning after he left the house my mother let me out." "Oh Angel" Buffy murmers, 'I'm sorry" Angel shrugs, "It was almost 300 years ago." he stands up and walks into the living room Buffy follows, 'Even so Angel you remember it after all this time" Buffy says sitting next to him on the couch "Yeah I remember all the punishments he gave me. Buffy my father was a tyrant. He enjoyed using me to get his anger out. I have to be grateful that he never hit Kathy or my mother" "You had a sister?" Buffy says surprised "Yes I did.' Angel smiles slightly, 'Her name was Katherine Louise. She was the most important person in my life. She was the only one to ever accept me as me. No matter what I did she was always there to say, 'Liam tell me a story' Kathy was the sweetest little girl in the world. I was 15 when she was born. My mother was ecstatic. My father he was angry. I remember overhearing him say 'another useless child' At first I was resentful of her but the moment I saw her I felt like she was the most important person I had ever met. After she was born he became even more hateful. The afternoon that I met Darla I had told him that I didn't want to be who he wanted be to be. I wanted to do what I wanted. I got drunk that night and Darla turned me. I remember thinking the moment I died that I would never see Kathy again." "What happened?" "I saw her again' he says bitterly, 'she was the one to give me the name Angel. She greeted me at the door and thought I was an angel coming back to her. She was the first one I killed." "Angel you know that its not your fault" "I know that" Buffy and Angel spend the next few hours talking about the differences between their childhoods and the hopes they had for their children. Finally around midnight Buffy exhausted goes to bed, while Angel sits in her bedroom alternating between reading and watching Buffy sleep. Angel is reading when he hears Buffy talking in her sleep. Angel listens as Buffy cries terrified. Worried he hurries to the bedside. 'Buffy' he calls shaking her. 'Buffy wake up' Slowly Buffy opens her eyes, 'Angel?' "Buffy are you OK?" "Yes. Angel?" "yeah baby?" "will you hold me?" Buffy asks "Sure' Angel gets into bed with her and holds her close as she falls asleep. ************* The next morning Angel awakes to Buffy watching him. "Morning" he greets "Hi.' Buffy replies. 'Your leaving tonight aren't you?" Angel props his head up on his hand. Smiling sadly he places his hand on her belly tenderly. "Yes I am.' as he says it he feels two sharp movements. He chuckles, 'Sorry you two but I have to leave." "Don't worry your Daddy will come back and see you" "And you" he adds looking at Buffy. The two spend the day talking together and with Spike. Not long after the sun goes down and Angel gets ready to leave. Buffy watches sadly from the bed as he gathers his stuff. Sensing her sadness Angel sits down next to her facing her. Touching her cheek he smoothes her hair behind her ear. A tear falls down her cheek. Angel wipes it away with his thumb and leans his forehead against hers. "I'll miss you Buffy." Crying Buffy asks, 'Will you call everyonce in awhile? I need to know your all right" she kisses his palm lightly "I'll call every other day." Angel promises "Will you be here when their born?" she questions "I'll try to Buff." Angel answers, "I love you Buffy" "I love you too Angel" Buffy says tearfully wrapping her arms around his neck. Angel hugs her tightly and feels the twins kick. "They love you too" Buffy giggles tearfully pressing his hand against the side of her abdomen. Angel places his hands on each side of her stomach and smiles as he feels a kick. "Hey you two be good to mommy. I love you guys" he says sadly. He looks at Buffy his chocolate eyes showing sadness and love. Angel leans forward and kisses her forehead lightly. "Forever Buffy" he whispers against her lips seconds before kissing her gently yet passionately. "Forever my Angel" she echoes sadly. Angel stands up and walks to the bedroom door turning around he asks sadly, "Are you still my girl?" "I'll always be your girl my Angel." she answers wrapping her arms around herself in comfort. Buffy watches as Angel walks out of her room. "Daddy will be back" she whispers Angel walks downstairs and sees Spike leaning against the wall at the bottom of the stairs. Once at the bottom Angel looks sadly up the stairs. "Watch out for them Spike" he says "I promise Angelus" Spike vows watching his sire head out the front door. Upstairs Buffy gets up and goes places her hand against her window. She watches as Angel walks out to his car. Angel looks up at her. "I love you" she mouths. Angel nods in response then turns towards his car. He stops again dropping his bag he runs across the lawn and jumps up to the ledge outside Buffy's window. Buffy opens her window quickly. Angel leans in the room. "Just like old times" he remarks Buffy smiles back, "I thought you were leaving" "I forgot to tell you something" "What did you forget to tell me?" Buffy asks puzzeled "I forgot to say Goodbye" he answers "Not goodbye Angel' she protests, 'more like see you later" she grins "Then see you later my love" Angel grins kissing her once more before jumping off the roof. Buffy watched as her beloved drove away. "Later my Angel" she whispers. Buffy stares out the window then turns as she hears a knock at her bedroom door. Turning she finds Spike standing there watching her concerned. "What Spike?" she demands Spike walks in and leans against the wall. "Are you OK Slayer?" he asks concerned Buffy looks at him and then out the window, "I will be Spike" Spike is silent then says, "Slayer how about I make you something to eat and we watch a movie or something" the vampire suggests Buffy looks at Spike surprised amusement, "Spike are you being nice to me" "Bloody hell Slayer why would I be nice to you?' Spike demands, 'I just don't want to hear you whining about Peaches all night" Spike grumbles "I don't whine" Buffy retorts. She thinks it over then admits, "OK I do have a tendency to whine but I don't whine all night" she states following Spike downstairs to the kitchen. The two have ice cream and watch The Princess Bride. ************* The next morning Joyce returns to find Buffy asleep on the couch and Spike asleep on the recliner. Joyce goes and gently wakes Buffy up. "Buffy honey wake up" Buffy opens her eyes groggily, "Hi mommy. Your home early" Buffy comments "Honey why don't you wake Spike up and then go up to bed" Joyce suggests "I'm up mum" Spike says sleepily from the chair "Good. Now Spike why don't you go down to the basement and sleep. I'm going to air out the downstairs.' Joyce explains, 'And Buffy I want you to go upstairs to bed" Joyce orders "Comfy here" Buffy mumbles burrowing into the pillow "Up you two" Joyce orders walking upstairs Spike grumblingly gets off the chair and heads to the basement, "Mum will you be done cleaning by the time Passions comes on?" Spike calls "Yes Spike I will be.' Joyce replies, 'I'll let you know when I'm done cleaning and airing out so you can come back up" "Thanks" Spike calls heading to the basement Buffy gets off the couch and walks sleepily towards the stairs when the doorbell rings. She walks to the door grumbling. Opening the door she asks, "What?" "Delivery for Buffy Summers" the UPS man says holding out the clip board for her to sign. "Who's it from?" she asks curiously as she signs "Umm' the deliveryman glances at the clip board, 'Its from Angel O'Riley" he answers Buffy looks at him stunned, "Uhh thank you" she watches as the deliveryman walks off the porch "Buffy who was at the door?" Joyce questions walking down the stairs Buffy smiles brightly at her mom. "Its a package from Angel" Buffy opens the letter attached, 'Buffy, I saw these and thought that the twins could use their own Mr. Gordo's. Love, Angel' "Well I'm glad he has finally come around" Joyce remarks sarcastically Buffy turns to her mom, "Look Mom I know you don't approve of Angel but I love him. He and I talked the other night and worked somethings out. There are things you don't understand about our relationship. Now I am going to take this upstairs and open it" Buffy picks the box up and goes up to her room. Sitting on her bed she opens the box to find two miniature versions of Mr. Gordo. She gets in bed with the three stuffed pigs and falls asleep dreaming of her time with Angel. Everyday Buffy receives either a gift for the twins or just a letter or a phone call from Angel.
