Chapter 16/?
One night two weeks after Angel left Spike was helping Buffy with her
history homework when the doorbell rang. Joyce goes to answer the door.
"Hank what are you doing here?" she asks surprised
Buffy looks up from her homework and smiles, "Daddy" she says excitedly
seeing her father walk into the living room. Buffy and Spike glance
momentarily at each other to make sure that neither one felt that Hank
Summers was a vampire. "Daddy what are you doing here?" Buffy questions
"Can't I visit my favorite daughter?" Hank asks innocently
"I'm your only daughter. Besides you could have called you didn't need to
come all this way"
Joyce notices that Hank glances curiously at Spike. "Hank this is Spike.
Spike this is Hank" Joyce introduces
"Spike is a friend of the twins father. He's here visiting" Buffy explains,
"Daddy why did you come all this way?"
Hank looks at Buffy concerned and then says to Spike, "Spike could you
excuse us? This is a family matter"
Joyce seeing Spike is about to protest and fearing that the vampire is
going to blow up Joyce says, "Spike is right now a member of this house.
Since he is then is also a member of this family"
Spike grins at Joyce, "Thanks Mum. I'll leave if you want me to" Spike says
looking at Buffy
Buffy shakes her head, "Your probably going to hear about it later. Besides
mom is right you are an honorary member of this family...until you annoy me
that is" Buffy retorts with a grin
"So Hank why are you here?" Joyce questions her ex husband
Hank looks at Buffy concerned. "I wanted to come and talk with you about
your future"
"Daddy my future right now is the twins" Buffy answers
"Buffy you could have so much. You are too young to give up your future"
Hank remarks
"I'm not Daddy. Is this why you came?" she demands
"No I came to let you know that I know a couple that is looking to adopt.
When I talked with them they were very interested in adopting the twins"
Hank tells them.
Buffy is silent as she stares at her father. Joyce and Spike glance at the
shocked teen. "I can't believe you did something like that' Buffy says
quietly her voice angry.
"Buffy they would take good care of them. Its not like you can't have
anymore children when your older. Buffy, honey your only 17. You can't
destroy your future like this"
"Hank how could you?!?!" Joyce says aghast at her ex husbands words
"The couple happens to be very well off" Hank objects
"How much Daddy?' Buffy demands her voice quiet yet deadly. Looking at her
father she asks coldly, "How much did they offer you to take away my
babies?"
"Buffy I don't know what your talking about" Hank denies
Spike looks at Hank coldly, "Mum he's lying"
"How much Daddy? How much money are your grandkids worth?" Buffy yells,
"How much did they offer you to sell out your daughter?"
"Nothing honey. They are my clients"
"So basically they offered you more business" Spike summarizes angrily.
Hank ignores the question.
"You bastard' Joyce says quietly, 'How could you do this to your
daughter?!" she demands
"I am looking out for her best interest. Unlike you" he says angrily
"Unlike me?!' Joyce demands, 'What is that supposed to mean?"
"Come on Joyce this whole situation wouldn't have happened if you had been
around more" Hank argues
"Been around more?!' Joyce demands, 'Your the one whose never around. I may
work alot but I at least talk to Buffy. You never call. You haven't visited
more than once since we moved here."
"Yes but at least when Buffy stays with me I know who she hangs out with.
If she had lived with me then this never would have happened." he insists
Buffy sits there watching her parents blame each other for anything and
everything. "At least if she had been living with me then the bastard who
got her pregnant would have had to take responsibility" Buffy hears her
father say.
"He has Daddy' Buffy says angrily, 'Don't ever say that he hasn't. He may
have moved away but he has paid more attention to the twins then you have
paid to me or them!"
Spike growls low, "Never insult Peaches. Thats my job" He grabs the front
of Hanks shirt and lifts him off the chair. Buffy feeling angry decides to
leave. She walks unnoticed out the front door into the night. Her thoughts
on everything that had happened rather than paying attention to what was
around her.
She is walking down the street when she hears someone behind her. Turning
around she demands, "Who's there?" She stretches her back to ease the ache,
"Its all right" she whispers. Buffy then senses someone behind her and
before she could turn around something grabbed her from behind. She feels a
sharp pain in her side. Touching her side she pulls her hand away to find
it covered in blood. 'No' she thinks, 'my babies' she then feels a sharp
pain in the back of her head as she in knocked out.
Back at the house Spike notices that Buffy is gone. He becomes concerned
when he can't hear her anywhere in the house. Angry at Hank for hurting the
Slayer, Spike decks him. "The Slayer is gone' he says to Joyce grabbing his
duster he heads to the front door, 'I'll go find her" Spike heads outside
in search of the Slayer. Soon he smells a familiar scent of blood, 'Slayer
blood' he thinks. Trailing the scent Spike is angered when he finds Buffy
unconcious and bleeding. Knowing that she needs to get to the hospital
quickly Spike picks up the small Slayer and runs to the hospital. "Hey' he
yells hurrying in to the ER, 'I need help" An orderly rushes over to the
vampire.
"What happened?" demands one of the nurses glancing at Buffy
"I found her outside." Spike answers, 'She has a stab wound to her side"
The nurse notices that Buffy is pregnant, 'How far along is she?"
"About 7 and a half months' Spike answers.
Buffy wakes up, "What happened?"
"You were attacked' the nurse remarks, 'your friend here brought you in"
Buffy looks at scared at Spike, 'Are the babies OK?" she asks the nurse
"The doctor still needs to check you out' the nurse notices Buffy grimace
in pain, 'All you all right?" The door opens and Dr. Jones walks in.
"Buffy are you all right?" she asks concerned
Buffy bites her lip her eyes filled with painful tears. Looking at Spike
she asks, "Will you call my mom?"
"Sure Slayer. I'll be back right after I do" Spike promises leaving the
room
"All right Buffy lets check you out' Dr. Jones says. She checks out the
wound, 'Well because of your Slayer strength it has begun to close.'
Buffy hears an unsaid but, "But what?"
"I am afraid that to make sure the twins are all right then we are going to
have perform an emergency C-Section."
Buffy looks at her scared and nervous, "Are you sure about that?"
"Yes I am. We need to do it right away. Now rest Buffy I am going to go
book the OR." Dr Jones leaves the room. Seconds later Spike returns.
"Slayer I called your mum, your watcher, and I tried Peaches but he wasn't
in. I'll try him later."
Buffy looks at the blond vampire nervously, "Spike is mom gonna be here
soon?"
"Yeah Slayer she said she's on her way. The Watcher said he was going to
call your friends and then be here"
"Thank you Spike" Buffy says. The doctor returns to the room. "So doc whats
going on?"
The doctor answers, "Buffy we need to go up to the OR now"
"Spike will you wait for my mom and tell her what is going on?"
"Sure Slayer. I'll get a hold of Peaches and tell him what is going on"
Spike promises. Spike watches as Buffy is wheeled to the elevator. Spike
waits for Joyce to arrive.
"Spike" Joyce calls frantically, "Where's Buffy?"
"Doc took her up to the OR."
"For what?" Joyce asks worried
"Dunno Slayer didn't say"
"Spike can you stay here and tell the others where Buffy is? I'm going to
go up and talk with a nurse"
"Sure Mum I'll wait for the Watcher and her friends. I'll try to get a hold
of Angel too" Spike says as Joyce heads to the elevator. Spike heads to the
pay phone and dials Angel's number. "come on peaches answer' he mutters. He
listens as the phone rings and rings.
"Spike!" Willow calls excitedly
Spike looks up to see Giles, Cordelia, Oz, Willow, Xander, and Faith
hurrying. "Hey Red" he greets
"Where's Buffy?" Xander inquires
"She's up on the third floor." Spike answers
"For what?" Giles asks
Spike shrugs, "Didn't tell me. Joyce is up there already" he says following
the friends to the elevator
The elevator stops on the thrid floor. Willow hurries out and finds Joyce
sitting on the couch. "Mrs. Summers what is going on?"
"Buffy's father came over. They argued and Buffy ran out. Spike what
happened after that?" Joyce asks
"I found the Slayer unconcious so I brought her here"
"So why is Buffy in the OR?" Xander asks
"The doctor thought it would be a good idea for them to perform a C-
section. Thats all I know. Spike did you get a hold of Angel?"
"No mum he didn't answer" Spike replies
In the operating room Buffy is somewhat alert through the whole process.
"Dr. Jones how are they?"
"Buffy relax. Everything is going well. Just remember soon you will be able
to hold your babies" Buffy listens as the doctor gives orders. After about
ten minutes the doctor announces, 'All right Buffy here's your son'
"Is he all right?" Buffy questions worried. Buffy doesn't receive an answer
and asks again, 'Is he all right?"
The nurse takes the baby away to clean him off. Suddenly she calls, 'Doctor
he's not breathing!"
Buffy looks worried toward the exam table. "Whats wrong?" she demands
Dr Jones nods her head towards the anesthisologist. A moment later Buffy
falls asleep. Thirty minutes later she awakes in her room. Her mom sitting
beside the bed. "Mommy what happened?" she asks groggy
Joyce leans closer to Buffy, 'Sweetie are you OK?"
"Mom were are the twins?" Buffy questions
"They are being checked out. Honey have you decided on what to name them?"
Joyce asks
Buffy grins at the memory of Angel's story about his sister. "Katherine
Angela and' wanting to name her son after Angel and Spike both. ' and
William Kieran"
"Great names honey" Joyce compliments
The door to the room opens and in walks the doctor. "Hello Buffy' she says
sadly
"Dr. Jones what happened?" Buffy demands
The doctor sits next to the bed. "Buffy there was a complication from the
attack' she begins
"What happened?" Buffy demands impatiently
"Buffy I'm sorry to have to bring you this news. Your son didn't make it.
The knife wound was deeper than we thought. It went and nicked his heart."
"Oh my god" she cries
"I'm sorry Buffy"
Buffy tearfully asks the doctor, "What about my daughter?"
"She is fine. A little underweight but her lungs are developed enough"
Buffy wipes away her tears, "Will she be all right?"
"Yes Buffy she should be just fine. I'll have the nurse bring her in."
"Mommy has anyone gotten hold of Angel?" Buffy cries looking at her mother
"Not yet sweetie. Spike is trying to get a hold of him. We'll find him
Buffy" Joyce promises
"Mommy I need him' Buffy cries wrapping her arms around herself
"He'll be here sweetie" Joyce says just as the nurse brings in the basinet
"Hello Miss Summers' the nurse greets, 'Here is your daughter" she picks
the newborn up and places her in Buffy's arms gently. 'Ring the call button
when you want someone to come and get her" the nurse leaves
Buffy holds the little girl close, 'Hi Katherine Angela. Its nice to
finally hold you" she says tearfully.
"She looks just like you when you were born" Joyce says sitting on the bed
looking at the newborn
The door opens and Willow sticks her head in "Can we come in?" she asks
"Sure Will" Buffy smiles. Buffy watches her friends come into the room.
"Buffy I am so sorry" Willow says tearfully
"I know, Will."
"We have been trying to get a hold of Angel" Willow says
"I know. I hope he's OK" Buffy wonders
"So what did ya name them?" Xander asks
"Tell me you didn't give them boring names" Cordelia remarks
Buffy looks down at the baby then at Cordelia, 'I didn't Cordy"
"So what did you name 'em B?" Faith inquires
Buffy looks down at the baby in her arms, "I decided to name them Katherine
Angela and William Kieran" tears fall as she says her son's name
" How did you come up with them?" Giles asks
"Angel's sisters name was Katherine. Angela after Angel. William after
Angel and Spike. Kieran cause I like it. It means grey."
"Aww Slayer you named the kid after me" Spike says in mock pride
"No I named him after Angel and you. Angel goes first"
"Uh how is the name William after Deadboy?" Xander asks confused
"Don't call him Deadboy' Buffy snaps
"Peaches name when he was mortal was Liam another form of William" Spike
answers
The door opens and a nurse enters "Visiting hours are over people. Time to
clear out"
"Aww do we have to?" Xander whines
"Yes young man its time for Miss Summers to get her rest" the nurse insists
Joyce looks at Buffy, "Do you want me to stay?" she asks
"No why don't you go home and get some sleep." Buffy insists
"Are you sure you don't want one of us to stay with you?" Giles asks
"No I'll be fine' Buffy promises
"Sorry Slayer I promised the Poof I'd stay with you" Spike says
"Spike you can't you'll get stuck here all day" Buffy protests
"I'll leave before the sun comes up Slayer. Besides the poof would kill me
if I left and something happened to you" Spike remarks
"I'll be here at dawn." Joyce says kissing Buffy's head anf the baby's,
"Call if you need anything" Everyone hugs Buffy and leave.
Spike settles himself into a chair. "Hey Spike" Buffy says as she puts the
baby in the basinet, "thanks for staying with us" The nurse comes back in
"Miss Summers would you like me to take the baby back to the nursery?" she
asks
Buffy looks at her daughter and shakes her head, "No thanks."
"All right. If you need anything then ring the bell" the nurse leaves
"Slayer I'm sorry about the boy" Spike says
"I am too Spike. How do you think Angel is going to react?"
"I don't know Slayer. Knowing him he's going to feel guilty" Spike hears
her yawn, 'Go to sleep Slayer. I'll try and get a hold of Angel"
"Spike wake me when you get a hold of him." Spike hears the sleepiness in
her voice and decides not to wake her
Spike goes out to the pay phone in the hallway. He dials Angel's number.
"Come on pick up" he growls
"Hello?" Angel asks
"Angel" Spike greets
Sensing the sadness in Spike's tone Angel demands, "Is something wrong with
Buffy?"
"Not really" Spike answers
"The twins?" he asks worried
Spike sighs warily. "Earlier tonight the Slayers dad came over. He upset
her and she ran out."
"You let her go out alone at night?!"
"Not that I meant to. Anyway she was attacked"
"Is she all right?" Angel questions
"No Angelus she isn't. She was stabbed and knocked out. I found her and
took her to the hospital"
"Did something happen to the babies?" Angel growls
Spike sighs sadly, "Angel she had to go in for emergency surgery to make
sure the twins were OK"
"Spike Tell me what happened!" Angel growls
"Buffy wanted to tell you herself but I thought it would be better if I
told you"
"What?"
"The boy didn't make it." He says softly
"Oh God,' Angel sighs, 'and the girl?"
"She's fine a little underweight but she's fine"
"And Buffy?"
"She is holding her feelings in. I think she is waiting to see you first"
"Look I'll be there around 3.' Angel looks at the clock. 'I'll go to the
mansion and go through the sewer to the basement"
"Be careful Angel. She'll never forgive herself if she loses you too" Spike
hangs up and returns to the room. Spike decides to check the basinet to
check on the baby. Seeing the baby is asleep he returns the chair with a
magazine.
In LA Angel frantically gets his things together to head to Sunnydale. "I
swear who ever is responsible for the attack on my family is going to end
up paying for it!" Angel heads out to Sunnydale and his family.
Chapter 17/? A few hours later Angel arrives at the mansion. Dropping off his things Angel heads to the sewer entrance. ****** Buffy is awakened somewhat by a crying baby. Disoriented she doesn't connect the sound to her baby. Rolling over she tries to go back to sleep. A nurse comes into the room, 'Miss Summers its time to feed your daughter" she says cheerfully Buffy slowly opens her eyes and glances at the clock. She sees Spike asleep. "OK. Just a moment. Spike" she calls. Not getting an answer she calls his name again "What?" Spike grumbles "The sun will be up soon. You should get going" "You sure?" "Yeah Spike. Mom will be here soon" Spike nods, "See you later" Spike leaves the room Buffy takes the baby from the nurse, "Hey little girl you hungry?" Buffy takes the bottle the nurse offers her. Offering the bottle to the baby she giggles as the baby latches on to the nipple. "I take it you are" "If you need anything then press the call button" the nurse says leaving the mother and daughter alone. Buffy smiles as the baby opens her eyes. Buffy notices that the little girl's eyes are chocolate brown. "Why am I not surprised that you have your Daddy's eyes" She hears a brief knock then the door opening. Without looking up she knows that its Angel. "She has your eyes" she tells him Angel walks up to the bed and sits next to Buffy. He puts his arm around her shoulders and kisses her temple. He moves the blanket away from the baby's face and strokes her face with his fingers. "I'm sorry Buffy" "For what?" "Not being here when you needed me" he answers "Your here now' Buffy remarks. 'I named her Katherine Angela.' Angel looks at her surprised, 'Angel, I named him before they told me he was dead I named him William Kieran- after you and Spike.' she burrows her face into his neck, 'I'm sorry" "Buffy what do you have to be sorry for" Buffy strokes the baby's face. "For getting him killed" "It wasn't your fault. It was an accident." "Its only been a few hours but I miss him" she cries. The baby cries out when the bottles nipple is jarred from her mouth. "shh...' Buffy calms putting the bottle back. "I miss him too.' Angel strokes the baby's cheek, 'but we should be glad she's all right" "I am glad" Buffy replies "And I'm glad your here with us" realizing the bottle is empty and the baby asleep. She kisses the newborns head, "How long are you going to be here?" "Not for long my love. Just until Katherine and you are back home." Angel puts his cheek against Buffy's head. The two sit there watching the baby. ********* "I said I want to speak with my daughter" Buffy hears her father say loudly "Your daughter's mother left specific orders that we not allow you in. I'm sorry" the nurse replies Angel feels Buffy tense, "Buff what's wrong?" Buffy holds the baby closer, "Angel thats my father" The door to the room slams open and Hank barges in. "I told you I am her father. You cannot stop me from speaking with her" "Mr. Summers' the nurse protests loudly, 'We have babies sleeping" At that moment the baby wakes up startled and starts crying "Shh baby its going to be OK" Buffy soothes looking at her father she growls angrily, 'I told you I never wanted to see you again!" "You didn't mean it Buffy" Hank remarks confidently. He notices the young man next to his daughter, "Are you the one who got my daughter pregnant and abandoned her" he demands angrily "He didn't abandon me" Buffy replies angrily, "Unlike you he has never let me down. Unlike you Angel would never try and sell off his own blood for business." Angel growls, "He did what?!" "Buffy sweetie I didn't do that. I made some calls so that you would be able to look at your options" Angel gets off the bed. Standing next to the bed he demands, "Did you or did you not go behind your daughters back to sell off your grandchildren" Angel growls low trying to keep his demon under control "Stay out of this.' Hank yells at Angel. 'this doesn't concern you" "I'm their father of course it concerns me. I found out that my childrens grandfather went behind our backs and planned to take them away from their mother. Of course this concerns me. Anything that could hurt my family concerns me" "Not when my daughter is a minor and you are an adult. You know I could have you arrested" "You even think of doing that father I will never ever forgive you. Not only will I not forgive you but I wonder how your clients would feel if they found out you tried to sell your own grandchildren!" "You wouldn't. Buffy honey I was just trying to protect you" Hank protests "This is all your fault' Buffy says her voice cold, 'If you hadn't come here none of this would have happened.' Buffy chokes back a sob, 'I wouldn't have run out and ended up losing my son. I never want to see you again." she comforts the crying baby "You heard Buffy. get out" Angel growls. He watches as Hank walks to the door. Angel walks up to Hank. Leaning close his hand on the door closing it. 'Summers listen to me closely. If you say one word about this to anyone I will allow Spike to have at you. I take it you met him' Seeing Hank nods nervously, 'If I ever find out that you are anywhere near my daughter and wi...Buffy I will personally hand you over to Spike. Spike happens to be very protective of those he cares about and he happens to care about my daughter. Do you understand Summers?" Angel growls his voice angry and cold. Hank nods nervously and hurries out of the room. Angel returns to Buffy's side. Sitting on the bed he says tentatively, "Buffy?" Buffy looks up at him her eyes filled with tears, "She won't stop crying" Angel gently takes the newborn from Buffy. "Shh.' he holds the baby close to his chest. A low purr vibrates from his chest calming the little girl's cries. When Katherine stops crying Angel asks, "Buffy?" Wrapping her arms around herself in comfort, "My father betrayed me Angel.' she whimpers, 'It hurts Angel. How could he does this to me?" Angel strokes her hair tenderly, 'In a way he was protecting you beloved.' Angel kisses the top of the baby's head. 'Fathers have a tendency to go over board. I'm sure he thought he was doing what was for the best." "He caused our son's death. All because he didn't listen to my wishes the day I told him I was pregnant. What hurts the most is that he pretended to be happy for me all the while he was lying and going behind my back" She wipes away her tears, 'Because of that we could have lost them...both. He would have survived if my father had stayed out of my business. Angel?" Buffy reaches out and touches his cheek and then kisses the top of Katherine's head. "Promise me that if anything happens to me or my mom that he won't get custody of our baby?" "Nothing will happen to you or your mom" "Angel promise me" Buffy says seriously, "Promise me that if something does happen you'll keep her away from him. He'll end up hurting her like he did me" "I swear Buffy. This little miracle will never be hurt by your father. If anything happens to you or your mom I will take her far from Sunnydale" "Thank you my Angel' Buffy says kissing him lightly. She pulls away when the baby protests at being stuck between them. 'Sorry baby.' Buffy looks at Angel and grins, 'She is our little miracle' she blinks away her tears, 'They both are." "Yeah. William and Katherine are both our miracles...they always will be" Angel glances at the baby and looks at Buffy, 'She's asleep" he chuckles. Buffy leans forward and kisses the top of Katherine's head. Angel gets up and puts the baby down in the basinet. He gazes at the sleeping baby. Buffy stands up and wraps her arms around his waist, "How does it feel?" she asks against his chest "How does what feel?" "To finally be a daddy after 240 odd years?" Looking at the baby he wraps his arm around her shoulders, "I'm happy yet in a way I'm sad. Not just because we lost William but because after all this time my parents have the grandchild they wanted when I was alive. And Kathy is missing out on seeing her niece. I guess I am feeling guilty" "Angel don't make me hit you for brooding. How many times have I told you, you have nothing to feel guilty about. None of the things that happened as Angelus is your fault. Your Angel and I know you would never do anything to hurt anyone. I'm betting that when you were human you never hurt anyone." Angel laughs, "Sorry Buff. I have to ruin that dream. I may not have killed anyone but I was a womanizing drunk when I was alive." "Let me remind you that no one is innocent...except for babies. Anyway that was a very long time ago. I think that you have outgrown those times' Buffy grips his arms and turns him around, 'have you? Because if you haven't I will have to hurt you" Angel holds his hands up in surrender, "Buff I swear I'm not like I was when I was Liam or Angelus" "Good. Now you may have been a womanizing drunk but I am willing to bet that underneath all of that you were very sweet. Not matter how you were in the past you aren't like that anymore Angel. Your just Angel the guy I love...who happens to be a vampire with a soul. Who happens to be my childrens father. Your sweet, incredibly handsome, smart, a great dresser do I have to list all of your qualities. I will if I have to" "OK Buff I get your point" Angel surrenders "Good. Now if you teach our daughter to brood I will have to hurt you" Buffy threatens Angel kisses her head, "I promise I won't teach her to brood" Buffy looks at the clock, "Angel its almost dawn. You should get going" "Sorry Buffy I'm staying here" "Angel you are going back to the mansion' Buffy orders pointing to the door. 'No arguing. I don't want to have explain to your daughter when she's older why her father turned to dust when she was a few hours old" "I'm going. I'll be back later' Angel kisses her cheek. Leaning over the basinet he strokes the baby's cheek. 'Sleep well little miracle" he grabs his coat and hurries down to the basement to the sewer entrance. Buffy checks on the baby and then goes back to sleep. A little while she wakes up to the door to her room entering. Opening her eyes she sees her mom walk in quietly. "Hi Mom" she greets sleepily "Buffy sweetie did I wake you?" "Not really. My Slayer sense alerts me to people coming in" "The nurse outside told me that your father come in earlier" Buffy nods getting up she checks the baby. "Angel was here mom. He left a little while ago" Joyce joins her daughter, "How did he take the news about William?" Buffy looks at her mother biting her lip nervously, 'Mommy I'm worried." "Why sweetie?" Joyce asks leading her to the bed. Buffy wipes her tear away quickly, 'I'm worried about Angel. I could feel his pain and anguish bottled up inside. He was trying to keep from breaking down infront of me" "Honey men want to be strong. They hate showing their emotions" "Mom I know but thats not like Angel to keep his feelings from me. Sure he maybe closed off to others but he always tells me what he's feeling" "He probably wants to process the things that have happened. Honey Angel will tell you what is bothering him when he's ready. Now honey I want you to get some sleep. I'll stay with the baby" Buffy nods sleepily burrowing under the covers and soon she falls asleep. Joyce sits down with a book and begins to read. After about an hour Joyce is alerted to the sounds of the baby fussing. She puts the book down and goes over to the basinet. "Hello Katherine how are you?" the baby coos as Joyce picks her up. "I am betting you need your diaper changed. Your mommy used to get that look when she had a dirty diaper" Joyce quickly changes the dirty diaper. When she is done the baby calms down. "Now that feels better huh?" she asks picking the baby up she sits down in the rocking chair. The baby makes happy sounds as she is rocked back to sleep by her grandmother. Joyce puts her back in the basinet and returns to her book. Joyce sits there and tries to read the book but her attention keeps drifting back to the conversation she had with Buffy. Glancing at the clock Joyce realizes that it is a good time for her to call the funeral home to make plans for the burial of her grandson. Joyce calls the funeral home and sets the date for the service to be held the next evening just after the sun goes down. Moments after Joyce is off the phone Giles comes into the room. "Hello Joyce" Giles greets, "How are they?" he asks looking at Buffy "Rupert they are both fine. Buffy I am afraid didn't sleep much last night. She had a visitor sometime after Spike left" "Angel?" Giles asks "Yes. She is worried about him. This morning Hank came by and upset Buffy. Giles can you stay with them? I need to go take care of something" Joyce grabs her purse and leaves the hospital. Getting into her car Joyce drives to the hotel that her ex husband is staying at. Chapter 18/? She knocks on the rooms door, "Hank its Joyce we need to talk" she hears him reply and the door opens. "Can I come in?" she asks Hank gestures for her to enter, "Why are you here?" Joyce enters the room, "I came to talk to you about Buffy" "has she changed her mind?" he asks his voice semi excited "That is what I have come to speak with you about." "What?" "I want you to leave this whole thing alone." "Why? You agree that she is too young to be a mother" "I may agree Hank but it is her and Angel's choice. They both wanted to keep the twins. I may think Buffy is not ready for this type of responsibility but I will stick by my daughter and granddaughter" "Is that what you came by to tell me?" Hank asks "No. I came by to tell you to leave Sunnydale" "Sorry Joyce I am not leaving until my grandson is buried" "No you will leave now. If you come to the service I will not stand in Angel or Spike's way when they tear you apart. If you do not leave Sunnydale by tonight then first thing tomorrow I will file a restraining order against you. Then I will call your boss and tell him what you had done and I will also tell the police that you tried to sell a child. Which is illegal and you could go to jail." "I am not paying the alimony or child support to support that...that bastards kid" Hank says angrily Joyce looks at him angrily, "We don't need it. Actually if you sent it I wouldn't cash it and neither would Buffy. We will be fine without that money" "How do you know that he won't abandon her and the child again?" "Because he loves them more than anything in this world. Just remember what I said" Joyce leaves the room. Next she heads over to the funeral home to make the arrangements. Back at the hospital Buffy awakens to the baby crying. Opening her eyes she sees Giles sitting at the end of her bed reading. "Hey Giles. Where's mom?" Looking up from his book Giles answers, "She had some errands to run" Biting her lip she says softly, "She's making the arrangements isn't she?" Giles stammers, "Uuh I'm uh not sure. It is quite possible" Buffy nods slightly as she gets up. Walking over to the basinet she gently picks the baby up. Returning to the bed she cuddles the baby closer. "Morning little Katie" the nurse enters the room carrying the bottle "Here you go Miss Summers" she passes Buffy the bottle and leaves the room "So Giles what's going on at school?" Buffy inquires as the baby latches onto the nipple of the bottle Giles removes his glasses, "I was only there to let the attendence office know that you would not be at school today" "How did Snyder take the news?" she grimaces "I'm not sure. I left before I could run into him" Giles admits nervously "Uh oh Katie' Buffy laughs, 'Giles is scared of the mean troll" the baby giggles Giles shakes his head, "Buffy I am not scared of that pompus little man" "Sure Giles.' Buffy replies. 'Giles? I was wondering if' she stops nervously, 'if you'd be Katie's honorary grandfather?" Giles looks at Buffy surprised, "Buffy I'd be honored. But what of your father?" Buffy looks down at the baby again, 'Giles Katie deserves to have a grandfather who cares about her. Besides you'd be a better grandfather than him" she spits out in disgust "Buffy' Giles stands up. He walks over and sits on the edge of the bed. 'I know that your father hurt you but are you sure you want to cut him out of your life?" Buffy looks up at him her eyes round with tears, "Giles he tried selling off my children. Then he had the guts to tell me about it. Giles he doesn't love me....he loves only his work" she says bitterly. Buffy pulls out the crucifix Angel gave her. She rubs it thoughfully between her fingers. The baby pushes the bottle away and begins to fuss waving her hands infront of her face. "Whats wrong Katie?" she asks jiggling the baby. After Katie refuses the bottle and won't calm down. Buffy looks at Giles her face showing her worry, "Giles something isn't right!" "Do you want me to get a nurse?" Giles asks standing up he moves towards the door Buffy looks at the baby then it dawns on her, "Wait Giles!' she calls. 'Giles its the cross" she states "What do you mean?" "Giles she started fussing when I pulled out my cross' she takes her cross off and places it on the night table. "It is possible that she inherited Angel's aversion to crosses' the Watcher theorizes "Shh Katie its OK." Buffy comforts, 'But Giles does that mean that she can never wear one?" "I don't know. Buffy will you let me experiment" seeing his Slayers concerned look "I won't hurt her' Giles promises, 'I won't place it on her skin." Buffy looks down at the baby then nods, "Go ahead Giles" Giles picks up Buffy's crucifix and holds it over the baby. "Shh Katie Grandpa Giles won't hurt you" Buffy comforts the crying baby Giles pulls the cross away rubbing his forehead he muses, "Buffy it seems as though Katie is affected by the cross but not the way a vampire is" seeing her confused look he explains. "Buffy when a fledgling is near a cross they burn almost immediately. It seems that Katie doesn't have the normal reaction. Its like she has a reflexive reaction towards avoiding the cross. Its possible that Katie will outgrow it or get used to having the reaction when she's older." Buffy's attention snaps to the window, "Giles what else could she have inherited from Angel?" Giles notices her attention is diverted to the window. "There is only one way to find out" Buffy nods and stands up. She walks over to the window and slowly lifts the corner of the blinds until the sun touches the baby's foot. She breathes a sigh of relief when the baby reacts normally. "At least we don't have to worry about you going outside huh Katie?" she carries the baby back to the bed. "So Giles is there anything else I need to worry about?" Giles cleans his glasses with his hankerchief. "I will have to research it" "Well get to it mister" Buffy orders pointing to the door. "We need to know if there are any other things to worry about" "But I promised your mother that I would stay" Giles protests. Just then someone knocks on the door "Hey Buffy" Willow greets entering with a balloon and stuffed animal. "Hi Katherine" she says "Look Katie Aunt Willow is here" Buffy says to the baby "All right Buffy I will get going. Willow can you stay here until Joyce returns?" "Sure" Willow says. "Can I hold her Buffy?" Willow asks excitedly "Sure Will' Buffy hands the baby to Willow. 'So where is everyone else?" "Still at school. I skipped" she says proudly "Way to go Will" Buffy says impressed "The others will be here later.' Willow answers, 'Buffy are you OK?" Buffy shrugs, 'I'm happy but I miss him." "Thats natural. Losing a child is hard for anyone" Willow replies "I know Willow. I feel like its my fault that he's gone" "Buffy its not your fault' Willow protests. 'It was an accident." "I know it was." "So what did Giles leave to research?" Buffy sighs, "Katie had a reaction to my cross. Giles when to see if he could find out if we'll have any other problems. We luck out though she has no problem with the sun" "Thats great Huh Katie?" Willow says to the baby, "That means we can take you to the park one day." "Willow you are planning to far ahead" Buffy laughs "Hey this is the only chance I have to be an aunt" Willow reminds "Well I better be an aunt one day" Buffy remarks. The two best friends spend the rest of the day talking and playing with the baby. Finally afternoon rolls around and in walks the rest of the Scooby Gang. "Hey Buffster" Xander greets loudly "Xander quiet down" Willow shhs "Yeah brain dead we're in a hospital" Cordelia snipes After awhile the Scooby Gang leaves and Joyce returns. "Hello Honey" Joyce greets "Hi. Where were you today?" Buffy asks "I had some errands to run. Honey I stopped by the funeral home and made the arrangements" "When?" Buffy asks softly "Tomorrow night" "When do we get to go home?" "Dr. Jones said you and Katherine can go home tomorrow morning" Joyce answers holding her granddaughter "Oh Katie hear that? We can go home tomorrow. Thank God I was going to end up hurting those cheerful nurses" Buffy remarks "I know you hate being in the hospital honey" "Mom I just want to go home" Buffy whines. The mother and daughter talk for a while and then Joyce leaves.
Chapter 19/? Moments after Joyce leaves Angel enters the room. "Hey Buff" he greets quietly "Hi Angel" Buffy acknowledges, "Katie look your Daddy's here." The baby just yawns. Angel smiles at the baby's reaction. "How are you feeling Buffy?" "Better now that your here" she answers. 'Katie and I get to go home tomorrow." "You don't sound excited about it" Angel observes Buffy sighs sadly. Looking down at Katie, 'It was just two days ago I was excited about bringing them home...now I feel kind of' she frowns, 'sad I guess. I think its because I was excited about bringing both home but now..." She trails off "But instead of taking both home we're burying one" Angel finishes sadly Buffy nods reluctantly. "Before we got the chance to know him" The two sit there silent in their thoughts when the baby begins to fuss. "I think Katie wants her Daddy" Buffy states handing the baby to Angel. She watches in fascination as Angel holds the baby tenderly. As Angel holds his daughter he gently takes her hand and watches her little hand curl around his forefinger. He grins as she squeezes his finger tightly, "Katie you have a great grip there." As he watches her eyes open he glimpses a flash of gold in her eyes. He looks up at Buffy stunned. "Angel whats wrong?" Buffy asks concerned Angel looks back down at Katie. "Her eyes flashed gold" Buffy leans forward and touches Katie's head. "She is more like you than me" Buffy says lightly "What do you mean?" Angel demands with a growl. Katie looks up at him startled. "Sorry little miracle" he apologizes. Buffy leans down and kisses her daughter's forehead gently. Buffy looks up at Angel and begins to talk, "This morning I took my cross out from under my shirt and Katie started to cry. When I realized that her reaction was from the cross Giles tried an experiment' seeing Angel's startled look, 'it was a harmless test. Anyway Giles held it over her. She reacted by squirming and waving her hands. Giles didn't touch it to her skin but since she didn't get the burn reaction that fledglings get he thinks that she might just have a reflexive reaction. You know like you get when you walk in a church." "So she'll never have the protection of a cross" Angel remarks Buffy shrugs, "Giles went to research it. He thinks that she might be able to control her reaction to it as she gets older.' Buffy stops and watches the look on Angel's face. 'Ooh I forgot the good news' she says excitedly. Seeing his quizzical expression she continues "She won't burst into flames going outside" Angel smiles sadly, "So she'll be a normal little girl who just happens to be stronger than the others. Her eyes will most likely go gold when she is surprised or angry. Then lets not forget the fact that she has a vampire for a father." Buffy smacks him on the side of the head. "What was that for?" Angel demands "I told you no teaching her to brood" she reminds sternly "Sorry" he apologizes sheepishly "Angel you don't have any reason to feel guilty. So what Katie won't be exactly like all the other kids." "Thats the point Buffy. She won't be like other kids" Buffy takes Katie's hand and kisses her fingers. "But Angel thats what makes her even more special" Angel nods. "Yes it does" he agrees. A knock is heard at the door and in comes a nurse. "Miss Summers its time for her feeding' the nurse hands Buffy the bottle then leaves. "Here" Buffy hands Angel the bottle. She watches as Angel gives Katie the bottle. She soon falls asleep. Angel finishes giving Katie her bottle. He moves from the bed to the rocking chair. Angel cradles the baby close as he talks to her quietly. "Well sweet Katie it is good to finally meet you. Your mommy and I had been waiting for you and your brother to enter this world.' Angel looks over at Buffy asleep. 'Katie your mommy is one strong person. She the strongest person I know. Last night was the first time I have ever seen her so sad yet so happy. She was really looking forward to having both you and your brother. So was I. Don't get me wrong baby girl we are glad to meet you and to have you here we are just sad that your brother isn't with us. I bet you miss him too huh? All people need siblings your mommy is an only child but she, Willow, and Xander are like siblings. They fight, they agree, but they always stick together not matter what.' Angel takes her hand and kisses it. 'I had a sister a long ime ago. Besides you, your brother and your mom Kathy was the most important person to me. I guess though in a way you do have siblings...I mean if you count all of the vampires I sired then yeah you do have some. But if I have my way they will never be able to hurt you. Spike knows about you but I think he will be very protective of you. Normally I'd say to anyone to stay away from Spike but I trust him for some reason. Spike will take care of you, your mom and your grandma. Katie my girl I won't always be with you but remember I love you, your brother, and your mom. If you ever need me I'll be here as soon as I can." Angel cradles the baby against his chest as he rocks her to sleep. In the middle of the night Buffy awakens to find Angel watching her silently while holding the baby against his chest. "She asleep?" "Hmm. She's been asleep for awhile.' Angel smiles shyly at Buffy. 'I didn't feel like putting her down" He gets up from the rocker and joins Buffy on the bed. Buffy lays her head on his shoulder and laces her fingers with his on Katie's back. Angel kisses the top of Buffy's head. "She's beautiful just like you" he whispers against her head "I think she looks like you.' Buffy observes she props her chin up on his chest. She touches his face with her fingers. "She has your eyes, your nose.' Buffy glances down at the baby and notices the baby's hat had fallen off. She chuckles at the sight of the bald head. 'I guess we'll have a while to see what color her hair will be" She puts the hat back on the baby. "I think she looks like you" Angel states. Seeing the look of disbelief he continues, "She may have brown eyes but there is a light in her eyes that reminds me of you. She has your hands and your sweet personality." "God you two make me sick" Spike states from the door Buffy glares at Spike "Then go away" then puts her head back down "Gee Slayer thats a nice way to great a family member" he grins leaning against the door frame Angel looks at Buffy questioningly. "It was what mom said when my father tried to kick Spike out of the house" she explains "well in a way its true" Angel remarks. When Buffy looks up at him puzzeled he explains why. "See in the vampire chain since I'm his sire all others I sire are in a way his siblings." "So in a weird way he's Katie's brother. If you count all the weird connections" When both vampires nod she groans. "Great so I take it this means I'll have to see him more often." "Yep" Spike smirks. Spike stays for a few moments then leaves. Angel stays until mother and daughter are asleep. **************** The next morning Buffy awakes to the baby fussing. She gets up and changes Katie's diaper and takes her back to the bed. "Morning little Katie" she greets kissing her hand. "Well today we get to go home. You get to sleep in your own bed tonight' Buffy says excitedly. Buffy then frowns, "I wish William was coming home with us. But he's in heaven.' she looks up at the ceiling then back down. 'I know Merrick's keeping an eye on him." Buffy looks over to the bedside table and sees a note. Picking up the note she smiles when she reads it: "To my favorite girls, Have a good morning. I will be at the house after sunset. ~Angel" The doctor walks in. "Good morning Buffy" she greets "Hi Dr. Jones" Buffy smiles "Today you and your daughter get to go home. But first we want to do an exam of both of you. Just to make sure everything is all right" Buffy nods in agreement. Buffy watches as Dr. Jones checks over Katie. When she's done she hands Katie back to Buffy. "So is my girl OK?" Buffy asks "Yes she is great. I'll need to see her in a week for a check up. Now about you lets check you out' Dr Jones says. Buffy puts the baby down in the basinet. She sits there fidgeting as the doctor checks her out. "Buffy calm down" she soothes Buffy shrugs "I hate having a check up. I get really anxious. Mom used to hold me down." The doctor chuckles, "I understand. Good news I'm done. Buffy your healing quite fast. I still want to see you in a week not just for Katie's checkup but to check and see how your healing.' Buffy nods. 'Also Buffy I think it would be a good idea for you to meet with a counsler.' When Buffy is about to protest the Dr. continues, 'I know that you don't want to but I think it will be of great help to you" "Seeing a counsler is not a good idea. I mean if I let it slip that I was the Slayer then I'd have some troubles" "Counslers can't reveal what they are told. I just think that going to a counsler will help you come to terms with your son's death" Buffy nods. "Maybe I will. Besides I won't have to talk to the counsler about being the Slayer. I have Giles for that" The doctor nods in agreement, "Call my office and make an appointment" She gets up and leaves. A few hours later Joyce comes into the room. "Honey are you ready to go?" she asks Buffy hops off the bed dressed in jeans and a t shirt. "Hi Mom. Of course I'm ready.' she picks up the napping baby. 'Katie went back to sleep just a while ago" Joyce goes to the door and calls, "She's ready to go" a nurse comes in with a wheelchair. Seeing that her daughter is about to complain Joyce holds up her hand, "Not a word Buffy. Its the hospitals policy. Now sit" she orders. Buffy sits down. The nurse pushes Buffy in the wheelchair out to the car. Joyce opens the car door and Buffy places Katie in the car seat. "So mom did I do it right?" she asks her mom. Joyce looks over Buffy's work and nods. "Good job honey" Buffy gets in the car and buckles her seatbelt. "Mom I take it that they planned a welcome home party" Buffy states wearily Joyce glances at her daughter and notices her look of sadness. "Sweetie are you thinking about William?" Chapter 20/? Buffy nods wiping the tears away. "Mom I'm not ready to go back to the house yet. Can we just go somewhere and I don't know talk?" Noticing the tone of Buffy's voice Joyce replies, "Sure honey" Joyce drives towards the park. She parks the car and turns to her daughter. "Buffy whats wrong? Is this about Angel? Or William?" Buffy shrugs. "Its not about William. I just feel like I can't do this." "Do what honey? Be a mother?" Buffy shrugs, "I'm not really sure. I know I want to be Katie's mother and that I can do it. Angel is leaving as soon as Katie and I are settled in. I love him and I don't want him to go but I know he has to. I know its the best for us and the rest of the world for us to be apart.' she glances to the back seat. 'But I'm scared that it won't be good for Katie. I know Angel won't do what Dad did to me because he's excited about being a Dad and he wants to be there for her. But when he's not here I worry that something will happen to him and Katie and I will lose him." "Buffy he adores you and Katie. I know I was never for the relationship but I've seen how much he loves you." "I know he does. But I don't think I can stand having to keep saying goodbye to him." "What do you mean?" Joyce asks Buffy fidgets with her ring as she stares sadly out the window. "I want him to be in Katie's life but I'm not sure how I can stand having to say goodbye everytime I see him. Or to be near him and not be with him" "Have you two talked about it?" "Somewhat. He wants me to be happy. To live a normal life.' she glances to the back seat. 'I don't think I can have the life he wants me to have if I keep seeing him everytime he comes to see Katie. But I can't tell him he can't see her because I want him to see her." "So what are you thinking?" "Mom I'm thinking about not being home when he comes to see Katie. When Katie's older and she wants to visit Angel I don't think I can take her." "So your thinking of having a middle guy when he visits or Katie visits him?" Joyce asks "Yeah mom I am." "Honey you know you can count on me. If you want me to be home when he visits so you can be gone then OK. I'm sure Spike will take Katie to visit Angel when she's older. But honey are you sure about this?" Buffy nods. "Yeah I am. I can't deal with my heart feeling like its being ripped out everytime I see him" "Honey I think you and Angel should talk about this before he leaves" "I will tomorrow. I can't do it tonight" Joyce nods in agreement. "Are you ready to go home now? Everyone is waiting for you... well Spike isn't he was asleep when I left." Buffy laughs, "Why am I not surprised. I take it he is going to be staying with us for a while?" Joyce nods starting the car. "Yes. Giles, Angel, Spike and I thought it might be a good idea for a while." "Oh well. I guess I have to get used to having him around then" Buffy sighs "Think of it this way honey. You can now keep track of him" "Plus a live in babysitter" Buffy chuckles "True. Talking about a babysitter what about school? Snyder called and said he will expell you if you are not in school by Monday." "Thats in four days" Buffy whines, "Who's going to watch Katie?" "We'll need to talk about that." Joyce agrees pulling the car into the driveway. "Maybe she can spend a couple days with Angel and when Angel leaves maybe Spike will watch her" "OK maybe. Lets talk about that later' Buffy gets out of the and opens the back door. She unbuckles Katie from her car seat and starts to lift her out. Katie opens her eyes and fusses at being moved. "Hey Katie girl its OK. Sorry to wake you.' kisses the baby's head. 'Look we're home." She follows her mother to the house when the front door is flung open and Willow rushes out. "Buffy welcome home" she laughs jumping. "Willow have you been drinking coffee again" Buffy teases hugging her friend briefly "Hey Katie' Willow greets. 'Welcome home" "Willow can you take her" Buffy asks. Willow nods excitedly taking the newborn. Xander hurries up to Buffy. "Hey Buffster. Welcome home" he greets happily. He hugs her. "Xan good to see you too" Buffy laughs following Willow into the house. She walks into find Cordelia with Willow. Cordelia looks up at Buffy. "Hey Buffy didn't take you long to lose the weight" she observes Buffy rolls her eyes at the remark. "Thanks Cordy. Nice of you to notice" "Buffy good to see you" Oz greets Downstairs in the basement Spike is awakened as he senses the Slayer and the baby enter the house. He listens as everyone upstairs is talking. He tries to go back to sleep but can't. He growls in frustration. Getting up he goes to the top of the stairs and opens the door. "Will you guys keep it down' he yells. 'Bloody hell I'm trying to sleep" "Sorry Spike' Joyce says coming to the basement door. 'Want me to make you some hot chocolate with marshmallows?" "Sure Mum" Spike answers Buffy enters the kitchen with the baby. "Hey Spike why don't you come out and join us the sun is nice and bright" she smirks Spike growls, "Slayer go away" "You go away Spike. I live here so you go away" Buffy retorts "Sorry Slayer. Mum said I can stay so there." Spike smirks "Mom why are you letting him stay" Buffy whines Joyce closes the kitchen blinds. Spike enters the kitchen and sits at the counter. Joyce hands him the mug. "I like having Spike here. Besides at least this way when he's here I won't have to worry about you and Katie being home alone at night" "Mom' Buffy whines, 'I don't need Spike to babysit me" "Slayer your right you don't need a babysitter you need a keeper" Spike remarks "Shut up Spike" Buffy growls. The others enter the kitchen to join Buffy. "Mum she told me to shut up" Spike whines. "Bloody Hell Slayer you are annoying" "Spike' Buffy growls warningly. 'Watch your mouth" "Or what Slayer?" Spike demands Buffy hands the baby to Willow. Putting her hands on her hips she answers, 'I'll hurt you bad" "Yeah right Slayer. Bloody hell you couldn't hurt me if you tried" Glaring momentarily at Spike Buffy turns away and then quickly she spins on her heel and smacks Spike on the head. "I told you watch your mouth" she glares at Spike as he lays on the floor. Spike gets up on his feet his face changed to his demon side. "What was that for Slayer?" Spike growls "Like I said watch your language" Buffy smirks. "Swear again around Katie and you will wake up one morning staked out in the back yard" Spike glances over at Willow and notices that Katie is dozing. "Okay Slayer I will try not to swear around Katie. After all I wouldn't want to corrupt my little sister" He promises getting up he heads back to the basement door. "Can you guys try and keep it down? I'm going to bed" He heads back to the basement cot. The others turn to stare at Buffy questioningly. "Uh what was that about Spike, William the Bloody being Katie's brother?" Xander asks confused Buffy shrugs as she takes Katie from Willow's arms. "Angel said something about how since he sired Spike that Spike is in someway Katie's brother. Giles maybe you can explain it to them. I'm going to go put Katie down and take a nap." She turns to the kitchen door. Joyce then calls "Buffy do you want me to heat up a bottle for Katie and bring it up?" "Sure Mom. Thanks for being here you guys. I'll see you tonight" Buffy says heading up the stairs. They watch as the Slayer leaves the room. "Giles what did Buffy mean?" demands Xander "Uh children why don't we go to the library and I'll explain it. Buffy needs to rest and I think Spike will appreciate it too." Giles says walking towards the front door the teens following. Joyce takes the bottle out of the microwave when she hears the basement door open. "Hey Spike' she greets. 'I was just going upstairs to give Buffy Katie's bottle." Spike leans on the door frame. "Mum I'll take it up" he offers Joyce turns around surprised. "And why would you do that?" "I can't sleep." he answers "Okay. Promise not to provoke her into a fight?" she demands crossing her arms "Yes mum I promise." "All right" Joyce hands him the bottle. "Be good Spike" she orders "Yes Mum." Spike says heading up the stairs. Outside Buffy's door he knocks. "Hey Slayer can I come in?" "Not unless you want to fry" Buffy retorts "I have Katie's bottle. I promised mum I would be on my best behavior. Besides I want to talk to you" Spike calls Buffy gets up and closes the blinds and then carrying Katie she opens the door. "fine come in' she invites taking the bottle from Spike she sits on the rocking chair. Holding the bottle she watches as Katie begins to drink. "What do you want Spike?" Spike sits on the edge of Buffy's bed. "I wanted to talk to you" "About?" "I don't know. I just had this weird feeling that you needed someone to talk to" Spike answers "Feeling? Hear that Katie Spike has feelings" "Slayer your going to ruin my rep" Spike complains Buffy laughs. "Don't worry Spike no one but me and Katie will ever know about this." The two former enemies sit there silent "Slayer if you ever want to talk I'm around" Spike offers starting to stand Buffy looks up at Spike, "I named him William after you and Angel because Angel has saved my life so many times. And because you protected us when we needed it the most" Spike sits back down. "Slayer I know that we aren't the best of friends but I made Angel a promise the night he asked me to watch over you. That promise won't end just because your alive right now. Its a promise that will last for as long as it is needed." "But why Spike?" "Like I said I made a promise and Katie's my little sister. You know vampires we're loyal to our own." "You have tried to kill Angel and me many times. Why should I trust that you won't try and kill Katie?" "That night I told you why I was here do you remember how you could tell I wasn't lying?" "Yeah. Your eyes and your attitude" Spike nods, "Can you tell now" Buffy stares at him then nods. "Yes I believe you. But why Spike?" Spike holds his head in his hands. "I'm not sure why really. That night I felt a strong presence. At first I just thought it was because of both you and Faith being near. But after we left Faith I could still feel it. I still feel it. Its Katie Slayer. She holds a powerful force, a force that is telling me to protect her." "Thanks. Spike are you coming tonight?" "Sure Slayer. He was my brother and mum said I had to" "Spike why in the world do you call my mom mum?" Spike shrugs, "I think its cause she has treated me better than my own mum did" She stands up and walks over to one of the basinets. "Spike can I ask you a favor?" "Sure Slayer." Buffy puts the baby down then turns around. "Angel is going to be here only until Katie and I are settled in. I have to go back to school on Monday and I'm going to see if he can watch her. I was wondering if you could watch her during the day when he leaves." "Slayer I sleep during the day" Spike whines. "I can't watch her and sleep at the same time" Buffy looks at Spike her eyes big. "Please Spike. Mom can't watch her during the day and I don't want to leave her in daycare. Its not that I don't trust daycare but I'd feel better if her big brother can watch her. Besides I know Angel would feel better if you watched her." "But I sleep then" Spike whines Buffy rolls her eyes in annoyance. "Look she is likely to sleep most of the day anyway.' Buffy glances at the second basinet sadly. 'We can move the other baby bed down to the basement. That way you won't have to come upstairs everytime she wakes up." Spike shakes his head, "I'll think about it Slayer" "Thanks Spike. Now go.' she points to the door. 'Katie's asleep. I need to sleep and I'm betting you need to sleep also." Spike nods and leaves the room. Buffy looks down at her sleeping daughter. "Well Katie girl its almost time.' She glances at the clock. 'Daddy will be here in a few hours.' she leans down and kisses her daughters head. 'Sleep well baby." Buffy changes into her pajamas and crawls under the covers and quickly falls asleep.
Chapter 17/? A few hours later Angel arrives at the mansion. Dropping off his things Angel heads to the sewer entrance. ****** Buffy is awakened somewhat by a crying baby. Disoriented she doesn't connect the sound to her baby. Rolling over she tries to go back to sleep. A nurse comes into the room, 'Miss Summers its time to feed your daughter" she says cheerfully Buffy slowly opens her eyes and glances at the clock. She sees Spike asleep. "OK. Just a moment. Spike" she calls. Not getting an answer she calls his name again "What?" Spike grumbles "The sun will be up soon. You should get going" "You sure?" "Yeah Spike. Mom will be here soon" Spike nods, "See you later" Spike leaves the room Buffy takes the baby from the nurse, "Hey little girl you hungry?" Buffy takes the bottle the nurse offers her. Offering the bottle to the baby she giggles as the baby latches on to the nipple. "I take it you are" "If you need anything then press the call button" the nurse says leaving the mother and daughter alone. Buffy smiles as the baby opens her eyes. Buffy notices that the little girl's eyes are chocolate brown. "Why am I not surprised that you have your Daddy's eyes" She hears a brief knock then the door opening. Without looking up she knows that its Angel. "She has your eyes" she tells him Angel walks up to the bed and sits next to Buffy. He puts his arm around her shoulders and kisses her temple. He moves the blanket away from the baby's face and strokes her face with his fingers. "I'm sorry Buffy" "For what?" "Not being here when you needed me" he answers "Your here now' Buffy remarks. 'I named her Katherine Angela.' Angel looks at her surprised, 'Angel, I named him before they told me he was dead I named him William Kieran- after you and Spike.' she burrows her face into his neck, 'I'm sorry" "Buffy what do you have to be sorry for" Buffy strokes the baby's face. "For getting him killed" "It wasn't your fault. It was an accident." "Its only been a few hours but I miss him" she cries. The baby cries out when the bottles nipple is jarred from her mouth. "shh...' Buffy calms putting the bottle back. "I miss him too.' Angel strokes the baby's cheek, 'but we should be glad she's all right" "I am glad" Buffy replies "And I'm glad your here with us" realizing the bottle is empty and the baby asleep. She kisses the newborns head, "How long are you going to be here?" "Not for long my love. Just until Katherine and you are back home." Angel puts his cheek against Buffy's head. The two sit there watching the baby. ********* "I said I want to speak with my daughter" Buffy hears her father say loudly "Your daughter's mother left specific orders that we not allow you in. I'm sorry" the nurse replies Angel feels Buffy tense, "Buff what's wrong?" Buffy holds the baby closer, "Angel thats my father" The door to the room slams open and Hank barges in. "I told you I am her father. You cannot stop me from speaking with her" "Mr. Summers' the nurse protests loudly, 'We have babies sleeping" At that moment the baby wakes up startled and starts crying "Shh baby its going to be OK" Buffy soothes looking at her father she growls angrily, 'I told you I never wanted to see you again!" "You didn't mean it Buffy" Hank remarks confidently. He notices the young man next to his daughter, "Are you the one who got my daughter pregnant and abandoned her" he demands angrily "He didn't abandon me" Buffy replies angrily, "Unlike you he has never let me down. Unlike you Angel would never try and sell off his own blood for business." Angel growls, "He did what?!" "Buffy sweetie I didn't do that. I made some calls so that you would be able to look at your options" Angel gets off the bed. Standing next to the bed he demands, "Did you or did you not go behind your daughters back to sell off your grandchildren" Angel growls low trying to keep his demon under control "Stay out of this.' Hank yells at Angel. 'this doesn't concern you" "I'm their father of course it concerns me. I found out that my childrens grandfather went behind our backs and planned to take them away from their mother. Of course this concerns me. Anything that could hurt my family concerns me" "Not when my daughter is a minor and you are an adult. You know I could have you arrested" "You even think of doing that father I will never ever forgive you. Not only will I not forgive you but I wonder how your clients would feel if they found out you tried to sell your own grandchildren!" "You wouldn't. Buffy honey I was just trying to protect you" Hank protests "This is all your fault' Buffy says her voice cold, 'If you hadn't come here none of this would have happened.' Buffy chokes back a sob, 'I wouldn't have run out and ended up losing my son. I never want to see you again." she comforts the crying baby "You heard Buffy. get out" Angel growls. He watches as Hank walks to the door. Angel walks up to Hank. Leaning close his hand on the door closing it. 'Summers listen to me closely. If you say one word about this to anyone I will allow Spike to have at you. I take it you met him' Seeing Hank nods nervously, 'If I ever find out that you are anywhere near my daughter and wi...Buffy I will personally hand you over to Spike. Spike happens to be very protective of those he cares about and he happens to care about my daughter. Do you understand Summers?" Angel growls his voice angry and cold. Hank nods nervously and hurries out of the room. Angel returns to Buffy's side. Sitting on the bed he says tentatively, "Buffy?" Buffy looks up at him her eyes filled with tears, "She won't stop crying" Angel gently takes the newborn from Buffy. "Shh.' he holds the baby close to his chest. A low purr vibrates from his chest calming the little girl's cries. When Katherine stops crying Angel asks, "Buffy?" Wrapping her arms around herself in comfort, "My father betrayed me Angel.' she whimpers, 'It hurts Angel. How could he does this to me?" Angel strokes her hair tenderly, 'In a way he was protecting you beloved.' Angel kisses the top of the baby's head. 'Fathers have a tendency to go over board. I'm sure he thought he was doing what was for the best." "He caused our son's death. All because he didn't listen to my wishes the day I told him I was pregnant. What hurts the most is that he pretended to be happy for me all the while he was lying and going behind my back" She wipes away her tears, 'Because of that we could have lost them...both. He would have survived if my father had stayed out of my business. Angel?" Buffy reaches out and touches his cheek and then kisses the top of Katherine's head. "Promise me that if anything happens to me or my mom that he won't get custody of our baby?" "Nothing will happen to you or your mom" "Angel promise me" Buffy says seriously, "Promise me that if something does happen you'll keep her away from him. He'll end up hurting her like he did me" "I swear Buffy. This little miracle will never be hurt by your father. If anything happens to you or your mom I will take her far from Sunnydale" "Thank you my Angel' Buffy says kissing him lightly. She pulls away when the baby protests at being stuck between them. 'Sorry baby.' Buffy looks at Angel and grins, 'She is our little miracle' she blinks away her tears, 'They both are." "Yeah. William and Katherine are both our miracles...they always will be" Angel glances at the baby and looks at Buffy, 'She's asleep" he chuckles. Buffy leans forward and kisses the top of Katherine's head. Angel gets up and puts the baby down in the basinet. He gazes at the sleeping baby. Buffy stands up and wraps her arms around his waist, "How does it feel?" she asks against his chest "How does what feel?" "To finally be a daddy after 240 odd years?" Looking at the baby he wraps his arm around her shoulders, "I'm happy yet in a way I'm sad. Not just because we lost William but because after all this time my parents have the grandchild they wanted when I was alive. And Kathy is missing out on seeing her niece. I guess I am feeling guilty" "Angel don't make me hit you for brooding. How many times have I told you, you have nothing to feel guilty about. None of the things that happened as Angelus is your fault. Your Angel and I know you would never do anything to hurt anyone. I'm betting that when you were human you never hurt anyone." Angel laughs, "Sorry Buff. I have to ruin that dream. I may not have killed anyone but I was a womanizing drunk when I was alive." "Let me remind you that no one is innocent...except for babies. Anyway that was a very long time ago. I think that you have outgrown those times' Buffy grips his arms and turns him around, 'have you? Because if you haven't I will have to hurt you" Angel holds his hands up in surrender, "Buff I swear I'm not like I was when I was Liam or Angelus" "Good. Now you may have been a womanizing drunk but I am willing to bet that underneath all of that you were very sweet. Not matter how you were in the past you aren't like that anymore Angel. Your just Angel the guy I love...who happens to be a vampire with a soul. Who happens to be my childrens father. Your sweet, incredibly handsome, smart, a great dresser do I have to list all of your qualities. I will if I have to" "OK Buff I get your point" Angel surrenders "Good. Now if you teach our daughter to brood I will have to hurt you" Buffy threatens Angel kisses her head, "I promise I won't teach her to brood" Buffy looks at the clock, "Angel its almost dawn. You should get going" "Sorry Buffy I'm staying here" "Angel you are going back to the mansion' Buffy orders pointing to the door. 'No arguing. I don't want to have explain to your daughter when she's older why her father turned to dust when she was a few hours old" "I'm going. I'll be back later' Angel kisses her cheek. Leaning over the basinet he strokes the baby's cheek. 'Sleep well little miracle" he grabs his coat and hurries down to the basement to the sewer entrance. Buffy checks on the baby and then goes back to sleep. A little while she wakes up to the door to her room entering. Opening her eyes she sees her mom walk in quietly. "Hi Mom" she greets sleepily "Buffy sweetie did I wake you?" "Not really. My Slayer sense alerts me to people coming in" "The nurse outside told me that your father come in earlier" Buffy nods getting up she checks the baby. "Angel was here mom. He left a little while ago" Joyce joins her daughter, "How did he take the news about William?" Buffy looks at her mother biting her lip nervously, 'Mommy I'm worried." "Why sweetie?" Joyce asks leading her to the bed. Buffy wipes her tear away quickly, 'I'm worried about Angel. I could feel his pain and anguish bottled up inside. He was trying to keep from breaking down infront of me" "Honey men want to be strong. They hate showing their emotions" "Mom I know but thats not like Angel to keep his feelings from me. Sure he maybe closed off to others but he always tells me what he's feeling" "He probably wants to process the things that have happened. Honey Angel will tell you what is bothering him when he's ready. Now honey I want you to get some sleep. I'll stay with the baby" Buffy nods sleepily burrowing under the covers and soon she falls asleep. Joyce sits down with a book and begins to read. After about an hour Joyce is alerted to the sounds of the baby fussing. She puts the book down and goes over to the basinet. "Hello Katherine how are you?" the baby coos as Joyce picks her up. "I am betting you need your diaper changed. Your mommy used to get that look when she had a dirty diaper" Joyce quickly changes the dirty diaper. When she is done the baby calms down. "Now that feels better huh?" she asks picking the baby up she sits down in the rocking chair. The baby makes happy sounds as she is rocked back to sleep by her grandmother. Joyce puts her back in the basinet and returns to her book. Joyce sits there and tries to read the book but her attention keeps drifting back to the conversation she had with Buffy. Glancing at the clock Joyce realizes that it is a good time for her to call the funeral home to make plans for the burial of her grandson. Joyce calls the funeral home and sets the date for the service to be held the next evening just after the sun goes down. Moments after Joyce is off the phone Giles comes into the room. "Hello Joyce" Giles greets, "How are they?" he asks looking at Buffy "Rupert they are both fine. Buffy I am afraid didn't sleep much last night. She had a visitor sometime after Spike left" "Angel?" Giles asks "Yes. She is worried about him. This morning Hank came by and upset Buffy. Giles can you stay with them? I need to go take care of something" Joyce grabs her purse and leaves the hospital. Getting into her car Joyce drives to the hotel that her ex husband is staying at. Chapter 18/? She knocks on the rooms door, "Hank its Joyce we need to talk" she hears him reply and the door opens. "Can I come in?" she asks Hank gestures for her to enter, "Why are you here?" Joyce enters the room, "I came to talk to you about Buffy" "has she changed her mind?" he asks his voice semi excited "That is what I have come to speak with you about." "What?" "I want you to leave this whole thing alone." "Why? You agree that she is too young to be a mother" "I may agree Hank but it is her and Angel's choice. They both wanted to keep the twins. I may think Buffy is not ready for this type of responsibility but I will stick by my daughter and granddaughter" "Is that what you came by to tell me?" Hank asks "No. I came by to tell you to leave Sunnydale" "Sorry Joyce I am not leaving until my grandson is buried" "No you will leave now. If you come to the service I will not stand in Angel or Spike's way when they tear you apart. If you do not leave Sunnydale by tonight then first thing tomorrow I will file a restraining order against you. Then I will call your boss and tell him what you had done and I will also tell the police that you tried to sell a child. Which is illegal and you could go to jail." "I am not paying the alimony or child support to support that...that bastards kid" Hank says angrily Joyce looks at him angrily, "We don't need it. Actually if you sent it I wouldn't cash it and neither would Buffy. We will be fine without that money" "How do you know that he won't abandon her and the child again?" "Because he loves them more than anything in this world. Just remember what I said" Joyce leaves the room. Next she heads over to the funeral home to make the arrangements. Back at the hospital Buffy awakens to the baby crying. Opening her eyes she sees Giles sitting at the end of her bed reading. "Hey Giles. Where's mom?" Looking up from his book Giles answers, "She had some errands to run" Biting her lip she says softly, "She's making the arrangements isn't she?" Giles stammers, "Uuh I'm uh not sure. It is quite possible" Buffy nods slightly as she gets up. Walking over to the basinet she gently picks the baby up. Returning to the bed she cuddles the baby closer. "Morning little Katie" the nurse enters the room carrying the bottle "Here you go Miss Summers" she passes Buffy the bottle and leaves the room "So Giles what's going on at school?" Buffy inquires as the baby latches onto the nipple of the bottle Giles removes his glasses, "I was only there to let the attendence office know that you would not be at school today" "How did Snyder take the news?" she grimaces "I'm not sure. I left before I could run into him" Giles admits nervously "Uh oh Katie' Buffy laughs, 'Giles is scared of the mean troll" the baby giggles Giles shakes his head, "Buffy I am not scared of that pompus little man" "Sure Giles.' Buffy replies. 'Giles? I was wondering if' she stops nervously, 'if you'd be Katie's honorary grandfather?" Giles looks at Buffy surprised, "Buffy I'd be honored. But what of your father?" Buffy looks down at the baby again, 'Giles Katie deserves to have a grandfather who cares about her. Besides you'd be a better grandfather than him" she spits out in disgust "Buffy' Giles stands up. He walks over and sits on the edge of the bed. 'I know that your father hurt you but are you sure you want to cut him out of your life?" Buffy looks up at him her eyes round with tears, "Giles he tried selling off my children. Then he had the guts to tell me about it. Giles he doesn't love me....he loves only his work" she says bitterly. Buffy pulls out the crucifix Angel gave her. She rubs it thoughfully between her fingers. The baby pushes the bottle away and begins to fuss waving her hands infront of her face. "Whats wrong Katie?" she asks jiggling the baby. After Katie refuses the bottle and won't calm down. Buffy looks at Giles her face showing her worry, "Giles something isn't right!" "Do you want me to get a nurse?" Giles asks standing up he moves towards the door Buffy looks at the baby then it dawns on her, "Wait Giles!' she calls. 'Giles its the cross" she states "What do you mean?" "Giles she started fussing when I pulled out my cross' she takes her cross off and places it on the night table. "It is possible that she inherited Angel's aversion to crosses' the Watcher theorizes "Shh Katie its OK." Buffy comforts, 'But Giles does that mean that she can never wear one?" "I don't know. Buffy will you let me experiment" seeing his Slayers concerned look "I won't hurt her' Giles promises, 'I won't place it on her skin." Buffy looks down at the baby then nods, "Go ahead Giles" Giles picks up Buffy's crucifix and holds it over the baby. "Shh Katie Grandpa Giles won't hurt you" Buffy comforts the crying baby Giles pulls the cross away rubbing his forehead he muses, "Buffy it seems as though Katie is affected by the cross but not the way a vampire is" seeing her confused look he explains. "Buffy when a fledgling is near a cross they burn almost immediately. It seems that Katie doesn't have the normal reaction. Its like she has a reflexive reaction towards avoiding the cross. Its possible that Katie will outgrow it or get used to having the reaction when she's older." Buffy's attention snaps to the window, "Giles what else could she have inherited from Angel?" Giles notices her attention is diverted to the window. "There is only one way to find out" Buffy nods and stands up. She walks over to the window and slowly lifts the corner of the blinds until the sun touches the baby's foot. She breathes a sigh of relief when the baby reacts normally. "At least we don't have to worry about you going outside huh Katie?" she carries the baby back to the bed. "So Giles is there anything else I need to worry about?" Giles cleans his glasses with his hankerchief. "I will have to research it" "Well get to it mister" Buffy orders pointing to the door. "We need to know if there are any other things to worry about" "But I promised your mother that I would stay" Giles protests. Just then someone knocks on the door "Hey Buffy" Willow greets entering with a balloon and stuffed animal. "Hi Katherine" she says "Look Katie Aunt Willow is here" Buffy says to the baby "All right Buffy I will get going. Willow can you stay here until Joyce returns?" "Sure" Willow says. "Can I hold her Buffy?" Willow asks excitedly "Sure Will' Buffy hands the baby to Willow. 'So where is everyone else?" "Still at school. I skipped" she says proudly "Way to go Will" Buffy says impressed "The others will be here later.' Willow answers, 'Buffy are you OK?" Buffy shrugs, 'I'm happy but I miss him." "Thats natural. Losing a child is hard for anyone" Willow replies "I know Willow. I feel like its my fault that he's gone" "Buffy its not your fault' Willow protests. 'It was an accident." "I know it was." "So what did Giles leave to research?" Buffy sighs, "Katie had a reaction to my cross. Giles when to see if he could find out if we'll have any other problems. We luck out though she has no problem with the sun" "Thats great Huh Katie?" Willow says to the baby, "That means we can take you to the park one day." "Willow you are planning to far ahead" Buffy laughs "Hey this is the only chance I have to be an aunt" Willow reminds "Well I better be an aunt one day" Buffy remarks. The two best friends spend the rest of the day talking and playing with the baby. Finally afternoon rolls around and in walks the rest of the Scooby Gang. "Hey Buffster" Xander greets loudly "Xander quiet down" Willow shhs "Yeah brain dead we're in a hospital" Cordelia snipes After awhile the Scooby Gang leaves and Joyce returns. "Hello Honey" Joyce greets "Hi. Where were you today?" Buffy asks "I had some errands to run. Honey I stopped by the funeral home and made the arrangements" "When?" Buffy asks softly "Tomorrow night" "When do we get to go home?" "Dr. Jones said you and Katherine can go home tomorrow morning" Joyce answers holding her granddaughter "Oh Katie hear that? We can go home tomorrow. Thank God I was going to end up hurting those cheerful nurses" Buffy remarks "I know you hate being in the hospital honey" "Mom I just want to go home" Buffy whines. The mother and daughter talk for a while and then Joyce leaves.
Chapter 19/? Moments after Joyce leaves Angel enters the room. "Hey Buff" he greets quietly "Hi Angel" Buffy acknowledges, "Katie look your Daddy's here." The baby just yawns. Angel smiles at the baby's reaction. "How are you feeling Buffy?" "Better now that your here" she answers. 'Katie and I get to go home tomorrow." "You don't sound excited about it" Angel observes Buffy sighs sadly. Looking down at Katie, 'It was just two days ago I was excited about bringing them home...now I feel kind of' she frowns, 'sad I guess. I think its because I was excited about bringing both home but now..." She trails off "But instead of taking both home we're burying one" Angel finishes sadly Buffy nods reluctantly. "Before we got the chance to know him" The two sit there silent in their thoughts when the baby begins to fuss. "I think Katie wants her Daddy" Buffy states handing the baby to Angel. She watches in fascination as Angel holds the baby tenderly. As Angel holds his daughter he gently takes her hand and watches her little hand curl around his forefinger. He grins as she squeezes his finger tightly, "Katie you have a great grip there." As he watches her eyes open he glimpses a flash of gold in her eyes. He looks up at Buffy stunned. "Angel whats wrong?" Buffy asks concerned Angel looks back down at Katie. "Her eyes flashed gold" Buffy leans forward and touches Katie's head. "She is more like you than me" Buffy says lightly "What do you mean?" Angel demands with a growl. Katie looks up at him startled. "Sorry little miracle" he apologizes. Buffy leans down and kisses her daughter's forehead gently. Buffy looks up at Angel and begins to talk, "This morning I took my cross out from under my shirt and Katie started to cry. When I realized that her reaction was from the cross Giles tried an experiment' seeing Angel's startled look, 'it was a harmless test. Anyway Giles held it over her. She reacted by squirming and waving her hands. Giles didn't touch it to her skin but since she didn't get the burn reaction that fledglings get he thinks that she might just have a reflexive reaction. You know like you get when you walk in a church." "So she'll never have the protection of a cross" Angel remarks Buffy shrugs, "Giles went to research it. He thinks that she might be able to control her reaction to it as she gets older.' Buffy stops and watches the look on Angel's face. 'Ooh I forgot the good news' she says excitedly. Seeing his quizzical expression she continues "She won't burst into flames going outside" Angel smiles sadly, "So she'll be a normal little girl who just happens to be stronger than the others. Her eyes will most likely go gold when she is surprised or angry. Then lets not forget the fact that she has a vampire for a father." Buffy smacks him on the side of the head. "What was that for?" Angel demands "I told you no teaching her to brood" she reminds sternly "Sorry" he apologizes sheepishly "Angel you don't have any reason to feel guilty. So what Katie won't be exactly like all the other kids." "Thats the point Buffy. She won't be like other kids" Buffy takes Katie's hand and kisses her fingers. "But Angel thats what makes her even more special" Angel nods. "Yes it does" he agrees. A knock is heard at the door and in comes a nurse. "Miss Summers its time for her feeding' the nurse hands Buffy the bottle then leaves. "Here" Buffy hands Angel the bottle. She watches as Angel gives Katie the bottle. She soon falls asleep. Angel finishes giving Katie her bottle. He moves from the bed to the rocking chair. Angel cradles the baby close as he talks to her quietly. "Well sweet Katie it is good to finally meet you. Your mommy and I had been waiting for you and your brother to enter this world.' Angel looks over at Buffy asleep. 'Katie your mommy is one strong person. She the strongest person I know. Last night was the first time I have ever seen her so sad yet so happy. She was really looking forward to having both you and your brother. So was I. Don't get me wrong baby girl we are glad to meet you and to have you here we are just sad that your brother isn't with us. I bet you miss him too huh? All people need siblings your mommy is an only child but she, Willow, and Xander are like siblings. They fight, they agree, but they always stick together not matter what.' Angel takes her hand and kisses it. 'I had a sister a long ime ago. Besides you, your brother and your mom Kathy was the most important person to me. I guess though in a way you do have siblings...I mean if you count all of the vampires I sired then yeah you do have some. But if I have my way they will never be able to hurt you. Spike knows about you but I think he will be very protective of you. Normally I'd say to anyone to stay away from Spike but I trust him for some reason. Spike will take care of you, your mom and your grandma. Katie my girl I won't always be with you but remember I love you, your brother, and your mom. If you ever need me I'll be here as soon as I can." Angel cradles the baby against his chest as he rocks her to sleep. In the middle of the night Buffy awakens to find Angel watching her silently while holding the baby against his chest. "She asleep?" "Hmm. She's been asleep for awhile.' Angel smiles shyly at Buffy. 'I didn't feel like putting her down" He gets up from the rocker and joins Buffy on the bed. Buffy lays her head on his shoulder and laces her fingers with his on Katie's back. Angel kisses the top of Buffy's head. "She's beautiful just like you" he whispers against her head "I think she looks like you.' Buffy observes she props her chin up on his chest. She touches his face with her fingers. "She has your eyes, your nose.' Buffy glances down at the baby and notices the baby's hat had fallen off. She chuckles at the sight of the bald head. 'I guess we'll have a while to see what color her hair will be" She puts the hat back on the baby. "I think she looks like you" Angel states. Seeing the look of disbelief he continues, "She may have brown eyes but there is a light in her eyes that reminds me of you. She has your hands and your sweet personality." "God you two make me sick" Spike states from the door Buffy glares at Spike "Then go away" then puts her head back down "Gee Slayer thats a nice way to great a family member" he grins leaning against the door frame Angel looks at Buffy questioningly. "It was what mom said when my father tried to kick Spike out of the house" she explains "well in a way its true" Angel remarks. When Buffy looks up at him puzzeled he explains why. "See in the vampire chain since I'm his sire all others I sire are in a way his siblings." "So in a weird way he's Katie's brother. If you count all the weird connections" When both vampires nod she groans. "Great so I take it this means I'll have to see him more often." "Yep" Spike smirks. Spike stays for a few moments then leaves. Angel stays until mother and daughter are asleep. **************** The next morning Buffy awakes to the baby fussing. She gets up and changes Katie's diaper and takes her back to the bed. "Morning little Katie" she greets kissing her hand. "Well today we get to go home. You get to sleep in your own bed tonight' Buffy says excitedly. Buffy then frowns, "I wish William was coming home with us. But he's in heaven.' she looks up at the ceiling then back down. 'I know Merrick's keeping an eye on him." Buffy looks over to the bedside table and sees a note. Picking up the note she smiles when she reads it: "To my favorite girls, Have a good morning. I will be at the house after sunset. ~Angel" The doctor walks in. "Good morning Buffy" she greets "Hi Dr. Jones" Buffy smiles "Today you and your daughter get to go home. But first we want to do an exam of both of you. Just to make sure everything is all right" Buffy nods in agreement. Buffy watches as Dr. Jones checks over Katie. When she's done she hands Katie back to Buffy. "So is my girl OK?" Buffy asks "Yes she is great. I'll need to see her in a week for a check up. Now about you lets check you out' Dr Jones says. Buffy puts the baby down in the basinet. She sits there fidgeting as the doctor checks her out. "Buffy calm down" she soothes Buffy shrugs "I hate having a check up. I get really anxious. Mom used to hold me down." The doctor chuckles, "I understand. Good news I'm done. Buffy your healing quite fast. I still want to see you in a week not just for Katie's checkup but to check and see how your healing.' Buffy nods. 'Also Buffy I think it would be a good idea for you to meet with a counsler.' When Buffy is about to protest the Dr. continues, 'I know that you don't want to but I think it will be of great help to you" "Seeing a counsler is not a good idea. I mean if I let it slip that I was the Slayer then I'd have some troubles" "Counslers can't reveal what they are told. I just think that going to a counsler will help you come to terms with your son's death" Buffy nods. "Maybe I will. Besides I won't have to talk to the counsler about being the Slayer. I have Giles for that" The doctor nods in agreement, "Call my office and make an appointment" She gets up and leaves. A few hours later Joyce comes into the room. "Honey are you ready to go?" she asks Buffy hops off the bed dressed in jeans and a t shirt. "Hi Mom. Of course I'm ready.' she picks up the napping baby. 'Katie went back to sleep just a while ago" Joyce goes to the door and calls, "She's ready to go" a nurse comes in with a wheelchair. Seeing that her daughter is about to complain Joyce holds up her hand, "Not a word Buffy. Its the hospitals policy. Now sit" she orders. Buffy sits down. The nurse pushes Buffy in the wheelchair out to the car. Joyce opens the car door and Buffy places Katie in the car seat. "So mom did I do it right?" she asks her mom. Joyce looks over Buffy's work and nods. "Good job honey" Buffy gets in the car and buckles her seatbelt. "Mom I take it that they planned a welcome home party" Buffy states wearily Joyce glances at her daughter and notices her look of sadness. "Sweetie are you thinking about William?" Chapter 20/? Buffy nods wiping the tears away. "Mom I'm not ready to go back to the house yet. Can we just go somewhere and I don't know talk?" Noticing the tone of Buffy's voice Joyce replies, "Sure honey" Joyce drives towards the park. She parks the car and turns to her daughter. "Buffy whats wrong? Is this about Angel? Or William?" Buffy shrugs. "Its not about William. I just feel like I can't do this." "Do what honey? Be a mother?" Buffy shrugs, "I'm not really sure. I know I want to be Katie's mother and that I can do it. Angel is leaving as soon as Katie and I are settled in. I love him and I don't want him to go but I know he has to. I know its the best for us and the rest of the world for us to be apart.' she glances to the back seat. 'But I'm scared that it won't be good for Katie. I know Angel won't do what Dad did to me because he's excited about being a Dad and he wants to be there for her. But when he's not here I worry that something will happen to him and Katie and I will lose him." "Buffy he adores you and Katie. I know I was never for the relationship but I've seen how much he loves you." "I know he does. But I don't think I can stand having to keep saying goodbye to him." "What do you mean?" Joyce asks Buffy fidgets with her ring as she stares sadly out the window. "I want him to be in Katie's life but I'm not sure how I can stand having to say goodbye everytime I see him. Or to be near him and not be with him" "Have you two talked about it?" "Somewhat. He wants me to be happy. To live a normal life.' she glances to the back seat. 'I don't think I can have the life he wants me to have if I keep seeing him everytime he comes to see Katie. But I can't tell him he can't see her because I want him to see her." "So what are you thinking?" "Mom I'm thinking about not being home when he comes to see Katie. When Katie's older and she wants to visit Angel I don't think I can take her." "So your thinking of having a middle guy when he visits or Katie visits him?" Joyce asks "Yeah mom I am." "Honey you know you can count on me. If you want me to be home when he visits so you can be gone then OK. I'm sure Spike will take Katie to visit Angel when she's older. But honey are you sure about this?" Buffy nods. "Yeah I am. I can't deal with my heart feeling like its being ripped out everytime I see him" "Honey I think you and Angel should talk about this before he leaves" "I will tomorrow. I can't do it tonight" Joyce nods in agreement. "Are you ready to go home now? Everyone is waiting for you... well Spike isn't he was asleep when I left." Buffy laughs, "Why am I not surprised. I take it he is going to be staying with us for a while?" Joyce nods starting the car. "Yes. Giles, Angel, Spike and I thought it might be a good idea for a while." "Oh well. I guess I have to get used to having him around then" Buffy sighs "Think of it this way honey. You can now keep track of him" "Plus a live in babysitter" Buffy chuckles "True. Talking about a babysitter what about school? Snyder called and said he will expell you if you are not in school by Monday." "Thats in four days" Buffy whines, "Who's going to watch Katie?" "We'll need to talk about that." Joyce agrees pulling the car into the driveway. "Maybe she can spend a couple days with Angel and when Angel leaves maybe Spike will watch her" "OK maybe. Lets talk about that later' Buffy gets out of the and opens the back door. She unbuckles Katie from her car seat and starts to lift her out. Katie opens her eyes and fusses at being moved. "Hey Katie girl its OK. Sorry to wake you.' kisses the baby's head. 'Look we're home." She follows her mother to the house when the front door is flung open and Willow rushes out. "Buffy welcome home" she laughs jumping. "Willow have you been drinking coffee again" Buffy teases hugging her friend briefly "Hey Katie' Willow greets. 'Welcome home" "Willow can you take her" Buffy asks. Willow nods excitedly taking the newborn. Xander hurries up to Buffy. "Hey Buffster. Welcome home" he greets happily. He hugs her. "Xan good to see you too" Buffy laughs following Willow into the house. She walks into find Cordelia with Willow. Cordelia looks up at Buffy. "Hey Buffy didn't take you long to lose the weight" she observes Buffy rolls her eyes at the remark. "Thanks Cordy. Nice of you to notice" "Buffy good to see you" Oz greets Downstairs in the basement Spike is awakened as he senses the Slayer and the baby enter the house. He listens as everyone upstairs is talking. He tries to go back to sleep but can't. He growls in frustration. Getting up he goes to the top of the stairs and opens the door. "Will you guys keep it down' he yells. 'Bloody hell I'm trying to sleep" "Sorry Spike' Joyce says coming to the basement door. 'Want me to make you some hot chocolate with marshmallows?" "Sure Mum" Spike answers Buffy enters the kitchen with the baby. "Hey Spike why don't you come out and join us the sun is nice and bright" she smirks Spike growls, "Slayer go away" "You go away Spike. I live here so you go away" Buffy retorts "Sorry Slayer. Mum said I can stay so there." Spike smirks "Mom why are you letting him stay" Buffy whines Joyce closes the kitchen blinds. Spike enters the kitchen and sits at the counter. Joyce hands him the mug. "I like having Spike here. Besides at least this way when he's here I won't have to worry about you and Katie being home alone at night" "Mom' Buffy whines, 'I don't need Spike to babysit me" "Slayer your right you don't need a babysitter you need a keeper" Spike remarks "Shut up Spike" Buffy growls. The others enter the kitchen to join Buffy. "Mum she told me to shut up" Spike whines. "Bloody Hell Slayer you are annoying" "Spike' Buffy growls warningly. 'Watch your mouth" "Or what Slayer?" Spike demands Buffy hands the baby to Willow. Putting her hands on her hips she answers, 'I'll hurt you bad" "Yeah right Slayer. Bloody hell you couldn't hurt me if you tried" Glaring momentarily at Spike Buffy turns away and then quickly she spins on her heel and smacks Spike on the head. "I told you watch your mouth" she glares at Spike as he lays on the floor. Spike gets up on his feet his face changed to his demon side. "What was that for Slayer?" Spike growls "Like I said watch your language" Buffy smirks. "Swear again around Katie and you will wake up one morning staked out in the back yard" Spike glances over at Willow and notices that Katie is dozing. "Okay Slayer I will try not to swear around Katie. After all I wouldn't want to corrupt my little sister" He promises getting up he heads back to the basement door. "Can you guys try and keep it down? I'm going to bed" He heads back to the basement cot. The others turn to stare at Buffy questioningly. "Uh what was that about Spike, William the Bloody being Katie's brother?" Xander asks confused Buffy shrugs as she takes Katie from Willow's arms. "Angel said something about how since he sired Spike that Spike is in someway Katie's brother. Giles maybe you can explain it to them. I'm going to go put Katie down and take a nap." She turns to the kitchen door. Joyce then calls "Buffy do you want me to heat up a bottle for Katie and bring it up?" "Sure Mom. Thanks for being here you guys. I'll see you tonight" Buffy says heading up the stairs. They watch as the Slayer leaves the room. "Giles what did Buffy mean?" demands Xander "Uh children why don't we go to the library and I'll explain it. Buffy needs to rest and I think Spike will appreciate it too." Giles says walking towards the front door the teens following. Joyce takes the bottle out of the microwave when she hears the basement door open. "Hey Spike' she greets. 'I was just going upstairs to give Buffy Katie's bottle." Spike leans on the door frame. "Mum I'll take it up" he offers Joyce turns around surprised. "And why would you do that?" "I can't sleep." he answers "Okay. Promise not to provoke her into a fight?" she demands crossing her arms "Yes mum I promise." "All right" Joyce hands him the bottle. "Be good Spike" she orders "Yes Mum." Spike says heading up the stairs. Outside Buffy's door he knocks. "Hey Slayer can I come in?" "Not unless you want to fry" Buffy retorts "I have Katie's bottle. I promised mum I would be on my best behavior. Besides I want to talk to you" Spike calls Buffy gets up and closes the blinds and then carrying Katie she opens the door. "fine come in' she invites taking the bottle from Spike she sits on the rocking chair. Holding the bottle she watches as Katie begins to drink. "What do you want Spike?" Spike sits on the edge of Buffy's bed. "I wanted to talk to you" "About?" "I don't know. I just had this weird feeling that you needed someone to talk to" Spike answers "Feeling? Hear that Katie Spike has feelings" "Slayer your going to ruin my rep" Spike complains Buffy laughs. "Don't worry Spike no one but me and Katie will ever know about this." The two former enemies sit there silent "Slayer if you ever want to talk I'm around" Spike offers starting to stand Buffy looks up at Spike, "I named him William after you and Angel because Angel has saved my life so many times. And because you protected us when we needed it the most" Spike sits back down. "Slayer I know that we aren't the best of friends but I made Angel a promise the night he asked me to watch over you. That promise won't end just because your alive right now. Its a promise that will last for as long as it is needed." "But why Spike?" "Like I said I made a promise and Katie's my little sister. You know vampires we're loyal to our own." "You have tried to kill Angel and me many times. Why should I trust that you won't try and kill Katie?" "That night I told you why I was here do you remember how you could tell I wasn't lying?" "Yeah. Your eyes and your attitude" Spike nods, "Can you tell now" Buffy stares at him then nods. "Yes I believe you. But why Spike?" Spike holds his head in his hands. "I'm not sure why really. That night I felt a strong presence. At first I just thought it was because of both you and Faith being near. But after we left Faith I could still feel it. I still feel it. Its Katie Slayer. She holds a powerful force, a force that is telling me to protect her." "Thanks. Spike are you coming tonight?" "Sure Slayer. He was my brother and mum said I had to" "Spike why in the world do you call my mom mum?" Spike shrugs, "I think its cause she has treated me better than my own mum did" She stands up and walks over to one of the basinets. "Spike can I ask you a favor?" "Sure Slayer." Buffy puts the baby down then turns around. "Angel is going to be here only until Katie and I are settled in. I have to go back to school on Monday and I'm going to see if he can watch her. I was wondering if you could watch her during the day when he leaves." "Slayer I sleep during the day" Spike whines. "I can't watch her and sleep at the same time" Buffy looks at Spike her eyes big. "Please Spike. Mom can't watch her during the day and I don't want to leave her in daycare. Its not that I don't trust daycare but I'd feel better if her big brother can watch her. Besides I know Angel would feel better if you watched her." "But I sleep then" Spike whines Buffy rolls her eyes in annoyance. "Look she is likely to sleep most of the day anyway.' Buffy glances at the second basinet sadly. 'We can move the other baby bed down to the basement. That way you won't have to come upstairs everytime she wakes up." Spike shakes his head, "I'll think about it Slayer" "Thanks Spike. Now go.' she points to the door. 'Katie's asleep. I need to sleep and I'm betting you need to sleep also." Spike nods and leaves the room. Buffy looks down at her sleeping daughter. "Well Katie girl its almost time.' She glances at the clock. 'Daddy will be here in a few hours.' she leans down and kisses her daughters head. 'Sleep well baby." Buffy changes into her pajamas and crawls under the covers and quickly falls asleep.
