Deeds and Service
Chapter One
Xander flexed his leg and wiggled his toes with only mild discomfort. He knew it wasn't the moving of his foot and ankle that was the problem. It was the standing that got him down. Yet dutifully he did everything the big burly man, who played the part of his physical therapist, told him to do.
Spike hovered not far away giving Xander the creeps on how someone could do that and not seem obtrusive. It was a wonder the doctor hadn't made him wait in the lobby, it wasn't like Xander was a child or anything. However Spike had a silver tongue and could persuade an elephant it was a mouse any day of the week.
In fact Xander wouldn't be surprised if his father had. It would be an interesting thing to ask sometime.
"Xander you're losing focus," Sven or Swen or something similar- Xander could never remember- said gently as the large man lowered the boy to his feet. "How many times have you lost your balance today?"
Xander grimaced; he would have to mention that. "Ten," he said timidly.
Spike growled, but Sven only nodded. "That's pretty good for refusing the wheelchair and the cane."
Xander made a face and limped his way across the little walking track with the help of the support beams. "I don't understand why I need them." He complained, "I only broke my ankle."
"Dangerously close to the heel Xander," Sven said gently again as he gave this kind of speech every day. "Even with a cane you might not be able to support your weight."
Xander stopped and look at the man," So what? You're going to put me back in the chair?"
"You're not showing any progress Xander. I feel the tendons haven't been able to fully heal."
Xander groaned and slumped against the bars. "Dad I want to go home."
Spike was by his side in an instant helping Xander over to one of the tables. "I agree with him Xan." Spike said carefully, "You haven't been getting any better. I don't want to see you stuck in a wheelchair forever, but what's a few months compared to the rest of your very long life?"
Xander sighed "Alright I'll take up the 'crash test one wheels' again," He looked pointedly at Sven, "But don't think I wont walk around sometimes."
Sven smiled, "I'll tell you what," he said going to the supply closet taking out a pair of crutches that latched onto the arms. "When you feel the need to walk around use these. You can still be mobile and it won't stretch the wound on your side. But you're still leaving here in your chair."
Xander groaned.
***
"We can go to the Bronze if you don't want to stay in Xan," Spike said driving down the road toward home as Xander stared out the window. "Or go to a movie."
"Bronze is ok," Xander said. "I can call the gang and see if they want to come. I think Oz is playing tonight so I know Willow will be there."
Spike could hear the bitterness in the young man's voice, "Still mad Cordelia left?"
"Of course not," Xander said sarcastically, "I make it a point never to be bitter when my girlfriend leaves because I'm in a wheelchair."
Spike didn't think it wise to point out that she did invite Xander to come with her when she left. Let the boy keep his reasons, besides Spike wasn't suppose to know that part. "You have to admit she is a bit flaky, lov." The vampire offered instead with a tiny smile. "The bit wasn't worth your time."
Xander smiled back a little, "Yeah, but for a while I was worth hers." He shook his head and changed the subject. "If I'm going to be stuck in this chair all night can we stop at home so I can change? I want to at least look cool."
"Who's definition of cool?" Spike asked with a hint of amusement.
"I was thinking of the leather pants, white tee, and the Doc's." Xander said proudly.
"Good choice," Spike said.
"And the Hawaiian shirt you hate so much," Xander continued smoothly.
"I thought I burned that shirt," Spike groaned.
Xander grinned evilly. "I bought a new one."
Spike groaned.
***
Xander rolled into the Bronze like he owned the place. Well technically Angel had bought the all-ages club after the last fiasco, so acting like he owned it just wasn't the same. It was no fun pretending when your grandfather owns the place for real. However that didn't stop Xander from grinning as he let the power wheelchair take him where he wanted to go.
He knew he looked a bit confusing in a tight pristine white shirt, tight black leather pants and Doc Martins, riding around like an invalid. What would confuse the people he past the most was the dangerous looking blond man in full black walking behind him protectively.
They made an interesting pair. One light, one dark; one full of hopes and dreams of the future, one remembering the richness of the past; one looking like an underground hacker, the other like a refugee from a Billy Idol concert.
Yet they were the same, blood and soul; danger and protection. Xander had somehow managed to look younger then his eighteen years while Spike had seemed to grow older. The vampire was losing his 'punk boy' look letting his hair grow out and the color return to its natural rustic blond. The boy however had cut his hair shorter leaving little whips of hair to fall into his eyes. He had traded the deep brown contacts to let his bottomless Hazel eyes show making him seem very young and innocent.
It had been those eyes that put his so called father in a rage. Xander had never truly known why, but suspected that, that alone proved the very masculine Harris could only adopt and move to a new city to show he was man enough to have a child.
A masculine brown eyes child just like his father.
Xander shook his head a little. There was no need to think of something like that anymore. No need to hide behind a wall of brown eyes, or jokes, or plain stupidity. It was no longer a shield, but a reminder of the painful past.
Now Xander proudly showed his Hazel eyes that tended to burn the same bright blue his real fathers eyes shown. There was no longer any need to hide behind jokes and failing grades. He had better things to do with his time.
Like figure out how to convince Sven he didn't need the chair.
Ok, so that was mostly a lie, he needed the chair. And getting unwanted sympathy was far better then falling on his face and risking further damage. Yet it also kept him from helping his friends fight the forces of darkness. Instead he was the one to stay with Giles and pretend he really didn't know what every book of the Ex-Watchers said and meant. Even the ones in the ever-so-hard-to-pronounce demon languages.
It wasn't his fault his heritage allowed him to know such things. He was just glade Giles had yet to find a book that bit of information was written in.
"You gonna be ok for a bit?" Spike asked as they reached one of the couch areas, "Red said she'd be here in an hour right?"
Xander nodded absently still lost in his thoughts.
"Xander are you listening to me?"
The boy blinked, "Huh? Oh yeah Willow's coming with Oz, he's got a gig tonight. You and Buffy are gonna do a quick patrol right?"
Spike nodded, "We should be back in a few hours."
"You don't have too," Xander protested. "I can always get a lift with Oz."
Spike just smiled, "A few hours," he said, patted his sons shoulder and walked away.
Xander moved into an unobtrusive spot and went back to his thoughts anticipating a long boring hour.
"Don't tell me. Falling down constitutes a wheelchair." A familiar voice jerked Xander out of his non- thoughts.
Xander looked up at the three young men and smiled at the blond. "Of course," he said, "How else am I supposed to pick up chics? From the floor laughing hysterically?"
Riley smiled and shook his head, "Whatever works man."
"Sure now they tell me," Xander looked between the two other men. One was the tall black man Xander had seen earlier. The other was a tall stoic blond who looked like he didn't miss much. Xander would have to watch that one. "So, "Who're your friends?"
"Oh," Riley said apologetically.
"Your friends are Oh?" Xander asked strait faced.
Riley groaned pinching the bridge of his nose. "Xander these are my friends Forrest and Graham, guys this is Xander Stone."
Xander waved a hand in greeting then looked past them. "Aw crap."
The three turned as one to see Frank Harris storming their way. Once the man had found out Xander all but held a press conference to tell everyone he had been adopted, the elder Harris had started paying much unwanted attention.
"You're coming home!" Mr. Harris growled ignoring Riley and his friends.
Xander smirked sitting forward resting his head on his hands, "And why would I do that Mr. Harris?"
Mr. Harris went red-faced, "Why you little- not son of mine-"
Xander stood slamming his hand on the nearby table to both startle the old man and support his weight. "But I'm not your son am I?" he asked "never have you treated me like a son and now I know your not even my father. You have no right to call me son!"
Frank Harris took a step back, but was still to drunk and too angry to back down. Xander wasn't in the mood to deal with the man and didn't have to any more. But he was going to have to get rid of the man soon before his tired legs gave out.
"Why don't you leave," Riley said suddenly as he and his friends bared the old mans way. Xander took the opportunity to wave over the bouncer.
You're not welcome," Graham piped up his voice low and dangerous.
Mr. Harris opened his mouth to shout them down when the strong hand of the bouncer grabbed his shoulder. "I do believe I told you to stay out of here." The huge man said and dragged the man out. Behind him the thin door manager walked up looking very nervous.
"I'm so sorry Mr. Stone," the little humanoid demon said meekly, "I don't know how he got in."
Xander waved him off. "Its fine Porter, have a repair man come by tomorrow and fix the window he probably broke," Porter nodded waiting for further orders. Xander really needed to sit, "why don't you go tell the bartender we would like some drinks?"
Porter bobbed his head and vanished into the crowed.
Xander waited ten seconds then staggered, "Ow," he grabbed his side and tried to lower himself into his chair which he forgot to secure.
Riley and Graham were at his side in an instant helping him sit while Forrest held the chair still. "Are you alright?" Riley asked once Xander was firmly in place.
"Oh great," Xander said taking his hand away from his side. There was a nice circle of blood staining his shirt. "Oh perfect, now all I need to do is break my leg again and I'll be back to a month ago."
"You're bleeding, "Riley said picking up some napkins off the table.
"Yeah don't tell my dad, he'll never let me leave the house." Xander said sarcastically taking the napkins. He lifted his shirt to reveal the gauze wrapping over a wound that should have healed weeks ago. Spike had told him, his chemical make-up was a little different and without blood- which Spike refused to let him have- Xander would take longer to heal from his injuries at least the first time around. The only thing that was good about that was the fact he would get no infection and wouldn't die so easy.
The bullet hole that went right through to the other side still looked fresh and was even slower to heal since the skin had burned. Xander was going to have to change the dressing and his shirt.
"Hey can you pull the cord on the privacy curtain so I can change?" he asked. Forrest walked over and pulled the cord. "Thanks," Xander opened a compartment that held a small first aid kit and an extra tee shirt.
"That's a bullet wound," Riley observed when Xander pulled his shirt over his head and peeled back the tape on his side.
"Really?" Xander asked, "I would never have noticed if the guy hadn't almost shot me point blank."
Riley winced sympathetically. "Need help?"
"Sure," Xander said handing over the alcohol pad while he took out little scissors to cut the gauze.
"How did it happen?" Forrest asked curious, but gently.
Xander snickered. "I was shot?" he asked innocently, "I don't recommend it though."
"I'll keep that in mind." Forrest said slowly.
"So. What happened between this morning and now that has you in a wheelchair?" Riley asked as Xander put a fresh tee shirt on and bagged the bloody stuff to dispose of later.
"The therapist wasn't happy with my progress so back in the chair I go." Xander said. "At least until I can get away with those arm brace crunches thing." He smiled, "Then I'll be falling on my face again."
Riley shook his head and rolled his eyes.
"Feel free to sit. I'm starting to feel short." Xander waved at the couches as Porter came back with an arm load of soda. The others laughed a little and sat taking their drinks.
"Will there be anything else Mr. Stone?" Porter asked reopening the curtains.
"Yes, make sure Willow and Oz find me when they arrive. And make sure my father isn't told about Mr. Harris," Xander said keeping an air of authority he didn't feel.
"Very good sir," Porter said. "I'll make sure your friends find you," he turned on his heel and strode away.
"You a big shot or something?" Forrest asked when Porter was out of sight.
"Or something," Xander replied "My grandfather owns this place. All the employees are hand picked by him. Even the main band that plays here. Not counting the fact the lead guitarist is my best friend's boyfriend."
"Wow," Forrest whistled, "Remind me not to piss you off."
Xander smirked, "Nah, the power hasn't gone to my head yet. Even if my family tries to spoil me rotten."
"When are your friends going to join you?" Riley asked, "I mean you weren't going to sit here all by yourself all night were you?"
Xander shrugged. "Dad will be back in a few hours. Willow and Oz should be here any minute." He caught a glimmer of red among the crowed. "And here they come."
Willow walked up a moment later Oz-less, but smiling. "Hey Xander, sorry we're late," she said breathless. "Oz went to go see if the band is ready and will come by after the first set, who are your friends?" She frowned at the three guys and focused on Xander seeing the wheelchair, "Oh Xander! What happened? Did someone hurt you? Are you alright?"
Xander smiled with his isn't-she-cute-when-she-babbles smile. "I'm fine Wills, "Sven just feels I need it for a few more weeks." He motioned to Riley. "This is Riley, I met him earlier today and these are his friends Forrest and Graham. Guys this is my best friend Willow."
Riley offered his hand, "Nice to meet you Willow."
"You too," Willow said shaking Riley's hand. She looked at him closer. "You're the TA in my Psychology class."
Riley smiled, "I thought I recognized you."
Willow smiled back then sat down on the empty couch next to Xander. She opened her mouth to speak several times shutting it again with a frown. Xander figured it was something Hellmouthy and struggled to think of some safe subject. The problem was it had just been the scoobies for so long there really wasn't anything they talked about unrelated to the Hellmouth.
"So have you heard from Angel lately?" Willow finally asked.
Xander smiled a little. "Yeah, grandpa called yesterday. He said something about Cordy showing up at his door step demanding a job. I'd feel sorry for him if it wasn't so ridiculously funny."
Willow smiled at that. Is Doyle still with him? They start that detective agency?"
The Hazel eyed Diamphire nodded. "Oh yeah Doyle I'm sure has fallen for Cordy by now and is drinking his way through the liquor cabinet to celebrate."
Willow giggled, "Xander that's mean."
Xander grinned. "But only in a nice way."
"Your grandfather owns a detective agency?" Riley asked interested.
Xander nodded. "Down in LA. He works with Doyle helping anyone that happens to walk through the door."
"Who's Doyle?" Came the natural question.
Xander smacked his forehead. "Sorry forgot." He apologized. "Doyle is a friend of the family's. He helped us out a while back and just kinda stayed around."
"He's cool," Willow agreed.
The canned music stopped and the stage lights came on illuminating the band in all of its glory. The Dingo's Ate My Baby started with a guitar solo played by Oz and soon enough Willow was out of her seat vanishing into the crowd.
"The boyfriend?" Riley asked as he watched her go.
"None other." Xander replied and sat hack to enjoy the music and wait for dad and Buffy to return.
***
"So what are we looking for this time?" Spike asked as he and the blond Slayer entered the gates to Rodchester cemetery.
"Giles said something about this police finding a mutilated body near the college. This being the closet cemetery I thought we'd sweep here and then do a walk of the campus."
Spike nodded. "Sounds good," he said." Then off to the Bronze for some much needed relaxation."
"You left Xander there?" Buffy asked. Spike nodded. "You think that's a good idea? I mean are you sure he's safe?"
"Not as safe as home, but Red's with him and Porter an' Gustaf have strict orders to inform me if anything should happen."
Buffy nodded, "That's good. I gatta admit you've changed for the better Spike."
For once in his unlife Spike took such a statement as a complement, "Thank you Slayer. Gatta do right by him, I do. That bastered did enough damage for one life time. It's time for something good in that boy's life," he looked side ways at the blond Slayer's hurt expression. "Family wise."
Buffy smiled. He does seem better."
Spike snorted. "He's a brat he is, an' I wouldn't want him any other way."
Buffy giggled, "Xander's not a brat. Sometimes obnoxious but not a brat."
"Hey that's my son you're talkin' 'bout!" he faked hurt, "And he is a brat!"
They laughed together.
"Really how is Xander doing?" Buffy asked after a moment.
Spike sighed and slumped against a grave stone. "Confusing," he stated fiddling with his stake. "Some day's he right as rain and is happy an' other days he's so depressed it's like a thick wall. Twice he's come to me and curled up with me to sleep. And if he's had a nightmare all bets are off of him even getting' within three feet of him."
"Ouch," Buffy commented sitting in another grave stone.
"Yeah," Spike said sadly. "And I don't know which is worse! His snuggling or him flitching away if I try to touch him."
Buffy frowned, "What do you mean?"
Spike frowned as well. "Well the other day he spent all of the day light hours avoiding me. Nearly screaming if I came near him. And then the moment the sun goes down he just appears and curls up and snuggles next to me while I was watching T.V. It was almost like he's scared of something, but I just don't know what."
"Have you asked?" Buffy asked resuming their walk. "I know, teenager and parental unit and all, but don't you think he'd tell you something?"
"Nothing,' Spike said, "He clams up or changes the subject to some other problem I know isn't what's causing his behavior. I've questioned Red, Oz, Ripper, even Sam- who by the way can get out from behind that crypt."
The tall blond demon walked out from the shadows of the nearest crypt, arms wrapped around him as if he were cold.
"How do you do that?" the Slayer asked Spike, "And why didn't you ask me if Xander told me anything?"
"Did he?" Spike asked.
"Well no," Buffy admitted. "But that's not the point."
"If you knew something would you be asking?" Sam asked quietly teeth chattering.
"You ok mate?" Spike asked stepping closer to the boy. Sam shook his head. "What happened?"
Sam shook his head again. "Something.I was walking and I felt something brush against me.cold, so cold.it felt like death and darkness."
Spike touched the side of the boy's face, he was soaking wet. "Where do you live Sam?"
Sam shivered, "No where, I wasn't suppose to be here this long. I wasn't provided lodging when my orders changed."
Spike nodded, "Alright come on then, lets get you cleaned up." He looked back at Buffy. "Can you go to the Bronze and get Xander for me?"
"Yeah sure Spike," Buffy said with out complaint looking at Sam worriedly. Spike smiled at her in gratitude and lead Sam off to his car. Buffy vanished into the shadows seconds later.
***
Xander and Riley were left alone while Forrest and Graham found a pair of girls to dance with. Willow was still amidst the crowd still swaying to the sound of Oz' guitar. They were on their second pitcher of soda, on a sugar high and talking none stop seeing how many languages they could switch before the other got lost.
Xander so far was winning.
"Ah damn I'm back to English." Riley said downing his soda. "I can't believe you know ancient Greek."
Xander grinned pouring them the rest of the pitcher, "I can't believe you don't."
Riley shrugged, "I haven't gotten around to it."
"Uh-huh." Xander said still grinning.
"And how did you learn so many languages?" Riley asked accusingly. "You're barely out of high school."
"Had to do something in high school you know?" Xander said, "Kept it interesting."
"Xander!" Buffy exclaimed walking up to the pair quickly.
"Buffy?" Xander went immediately on alert. "What's wrong? Where's dad?"
"It's Sam," Buffy said breathless, "He's been hurt, your dad took him home and asked me to come get you."
Xander nodded looking apologetically at Riley. Then a thought occurred to him. "Buffy my chair can't fit in your mom's car. Why do you think dad got a separate car?"
Buffy frowned, "I guess we can wait for Oz."
"Band stuff," Xander said "Plus most of his living space."
"I guess I could run and get Spike's car." Buffy's frowned deepened.
"My car's big enough." Riley suddenly said. "The back seat folds into the floor, but then there would only be room for two."
Buffy stared at the blond measuringly then sighed. "Ok, I'll stay here and make sure Willow's alright."
"Let's go then, thanks Buff." Xander said unlocking his chair and wheeling out following Riley to the parking lot.
What about your friends?" Xander asked once they were outside."
"Forrest brought his own car, I'm sure he'll give Graham a ride." Riley said unlocking his car door. "Do you need help?"
Xander shook his head and levered himself up into the passenger seat. Riley nodded and lowered his back seat then lifted the surprisingly light chair into the back setting its brakes so it wouldn't move. They were on the road minutes later headed for the address Xander gave him.
***
Frank Harris drunkenly stumbled down the street mumbling to himself. That good for nothing brat. Where does he get off telling me I have no rights to him? I raised him! And that two-bit blond can't be his real father! Can't anyone else see the man isn't even thirty! He has to be the little shits lover!
He was so engrossed in his silent ramblings he didn't notice the three vampires silently following him. They moved in for the kill quickly and efficiently. Just as they readied to attack, a shadowed figure reached out of the dark and grabbed the drunken man engulfing him in shadow. All that was left was an empty street. The vampires had fled; they knew that that shadow was to be feared.
More then the Mro'nic'ta.
Chapter One
Xander flexed his leg and wiggled his toes with only mild discomfort. He knew it wasn't the moving of his foot and ankle that was the problem. It was the standing that got him down. Yet dutifully he did everything the big burly man, who played the part of his physical therapist, told him to do.
Spike hovered not far away giving Xander the creeps on how someone could do that and not seem obtrusive. It was a wonder the doctor hadn't made him wait in the lobby, it wasn't like Xander was a child or anything. However Spike had a silver tongue and could persuade an elephant it was a mouse any day of the week.
In fact Xander wouldn't be surprised if his father had. It would be an interesting thing to ask sometime.
"Xander you're losing focus," Sven or Swen or something similar- Xander could never remember- said gently as the large man lowered the boy to his feet. "How many times have you lost your balance today?"
Xander grimaced; he would have to mention that. "Ten," he said timidly.
Spike growled, but Sven only nodded. "That's pretty good for refusing the wheelchair and the cane."
Xander made a face and limped his way across the little walking track with the help of the support beams. "I don't understand why I need them." He complained, "I only broke my ankle."
"Dangerously close to the heel Xander," Sven said gently again as he gave this kind of speech every day. "Even with a cane you might not be able to support your weight."
Xander stopped and look at the man," So what? You're going to put me back in the chair?"
"You're not showing any progress Xander. I feel the tendons haven't been able to fully heal."
Xander groaned and slumped against the bars. "Dad I want to go home."
Spike was by his side in an instant helping Xander over to one of the tables. "I agree with him Xan." Spike said carefully, "You haven't been getting any better. I don't want to see you stuck in a wheelchair forever, but what's a few months compared to the rest of your very long life?"
Xander sighed "Alright I'll take up the 'crash test one wheels' again," He looked pointedly at Sven, "But don't think I wont walk around sometimes."
Sven smiled, "I'll tell you what," he said going to the supply closet taking out a pair of crutches that latched onto the arms. "When you feel the need to walk around use these. You can still be mobile and it won't stretch the wound on your side. But you're still leaving here in your chair."
Xander groaned.
***
"We can go to the Bronze if you don't want to stay in Xan," Spike said driving down the road toward home as Xander stared out the window. "Or go to a movie."
"Bronze is ok," Xander said. "I can call the gang and see if they want to come. I think Oz is playing tonight so I know Willow will be there."
Spike could hear the bitterness in the young man's voice, "Still mad Cordelia left?"
"Of course not," Xander said sarcastically, "I make it a point never to be bitter when my girlfriend leaves because I'm in a wheelchair."
Spike didn't think it wise to point out that she did invite Xander to come with her when she left. Let the boy keep his reasons, besides Spike wasn't suppose to know that part. "You have to admit she is a bit flaky, lov." The vampire offered instead with a tiny smile. "The bit wasn't worth your time."
Xander smiled back a little, "Yeah, but for a while I was worth hers." He shook his head and changed the subject. "If I'm going to be stuck in this chair all night can we stop at home so I can change? I want to at least look cool."
"Who's definition of cool?" Spike asked with a hint of amusement.
"I was thinking of the leather pants, white tee, and the Doc's." Xander said proudly.
"Good choice," Spike said.
"And the Hawaiian shirt you hate so much," Xander continued smoothly.
"I thought I burned that shirt," Spike groaned.
Xander grinned evilly. "I bought a new one."
Spike groaned.
***
Xander rolled into the Bronze like he owned the place. Well technically Angel had bought the all-ages club after the last fiasco, so acting like he owned it just wasn't the same. It was no fun pretending when your grandfather owns the place for real. However that didn't stop Xander from grinning as he let the power wheelchair take him where he wanted to go.
He knew he looked a bit confusing in a tight pristine white shirt, tight black leather pants and Doc Martins, riding around like an invalid. What would confuse the people he past the most was the dangerous looking blond man in full black walking behind him protectively.
They made an interesting pair. One light, one dark; one full of hopes and dreams of the future, one remembering the richness of the past; one looking like an underground hacker, the other like a refugee from a Billy Idol concert.
Yet they were the same, blood and soul; danger and protection. Xander had somehow managed to look younger then his eighteen years while Spike had seemed to grow older. The vampire was losing his 'punk boy' look letting his hair grow out and the color return to its natural rustic blond. The boy however had cut his hair shorter leaving little whips of hair to fall into his eyes. He had traded the deep brown contacts to let his bottomless Hazel eyes show making him seem very young and innocent.
It had been those eyes that put his so called father in a rage. Xander had never truly known why, but suspected that, that alone proved the very masculine Harris could only adopt and move to a new city to show he was man enough to have a child.
A masculine brown eyes child just like his father.
Xander shook his head a little. There was no need to think of something like that anymore. No need to hide behind a wall of brown eyes, or jokes, or plain stupidity. It was no longer a shield, but a reminder of the painful past.
Now Xander proudly showed his Hazel eyes that tended to burn the same bright blue his real fathers eyes shown. There was no longer any need to hide behind jokes and failing grades. He had better things to do with his time.
Like figure out how to convince Sven he didn't need the chair.
Ok, so that was mostly a lie, he needed the chair. And getting unwanted sympathy was far better then falling on his face and risking further damage. Yet it also kept him from helping his friends fight the forces of darkness. Instead he was the one to stay with Giles and pretend he really didn't know what every book of the Ex-Watchers said and meant. Even the ones in the ever-so-hard-to-pronounce demon languages.
It wasn't his fault his heritage allowed him to know such things. He was just glade Giles had yet to find a book that bit of information was written in.
"You gonna be ok for a bit?" Spike asked as they reached one of the couch areas, "Red said she'd be here in an hour right?"
Xander nodded absently still lost in his thoughts.
"Xander are you listening to me?"
The boy blinked, "Huh? Oh yeah Willow's coming with Oz, he's got a gig tonight. You and Buffy are gonna do a quick patrol right?"
Spike nodded, "We should be back in a few hours."
"You don't have too," Xander protested. "I can always get a lift with Oz."
Spike just smiled, "A few hours," he said, patted his sons shoulder and walked away.
Xander moved into an unobtrusive spot and went back to his thoughts anticipating a long boring hour.
"Don't tell me. Falling down constitutes a wheelchair." A familiar voice jerked Xander out of his non- thoughts.
Xander looked up at the three young men and smiled at the blond. "Of course," he said, "How else am I supposed to pick up chics? From the floor laughing hysterically?"
Riley smiled and shook his head, "Whatever works man."
"Sure now they tell me," Xander looked between the two other men. One was the tall black man Xander had seen earlier. The other was a tall stoic blond who looked like he didn't miss much. Xander would have to watch that one. "So, "Who're your friends?"
"Oh," Riley said apologetically.
"Your friends are Oh?" Xander asked strait faced.
Riley groaned pinching the bridge of his nose. "Xander these are my friends Forrest and Graham, guys this is Xander Stone."
Xander waved a hand in greeting then looked past them. "Aw crap."
The three turned as one to see Frank Harris storming their way. Once the man had found out Xander all but held a press conference to tell everyone he had been adopted, the elder Harris had started paying much unwanted attention.
"You're coming home!" Mr. Harris growled ignoring Riley and his friends.
Xander smirked sitting forward resting his head on his hands, "And why would I do that Mr. Harris?"
Mr. Harris went red-faced, "Why you little- not son of mine-"
Xander stood slamming his hand on the nearby table to both startle the old man and support his weight. "But I'm not your son am I?" he asked "never have you treated me like a son and now I know your not even my father. You have no right to call me son!"
Frank Harris took a step back, but was still to drunk and too angry to back down. Xander wasn't in the mood to deal with the man and didn't have to any more. But he was going to have to get rid of the man soon before his tired legs gave out.
"Why don't you leave," Riley said suddenly as he and his friends bared the old mans way. Xander took the opportunity to wave over the bouncer.
You're not welcome," Graham piped up his voice low and dangerous.
Mr. Harris opened his mouth to shout them down when the strong hand of the bouncer grabbed his shoulder. "I do believe I told you to stay out of here." The huge man said and dragged the man out. Behind him the thin door manager walked up looking very nervous.
"I'm so sorry Mr. Stone," the little humanoid demon said meekly, "I don't know how he got in."
Xander waved him off. "Its fine Porter, have a repair man come by tomorrow and fix the window he probably broke," Porter nodded waiting for further orders. Xander really needed to sit, "why don't you go tell the bartender we would like some drinks?"
Porter bobbed his head and vanished into the crowed.
Xander waited ten seconds then staggered, "Ow," he grabbed his side and tried to lower himself into his chair which he forgot to secure.
Riley and Graham were at his side in an instant helping him sit while Forrest held the chair still. "Are you alright?" Riley asked once Xander was firmly in place.
"Oh great," Xander said taking his hand away from his side. There was a nice circle of blood staining his shirt. "Oh perfect, now all I need to do is break my leg again and I'll be back to a month ago."
"You're bleeding, "Riley said picking up some napkins off the table.
"Yeah don't tell my dad, he'll never let me leave the house." Xander said sarcastically taking the napkins. He lifted his shirt to reveal the gauze wrapping over a wound that should have healed weeks ago. Spike had told him, his chemical make-up was a little different and without blood- which Spike refused to let him have- Xander would take longer to heal from his injuries at least the first time around. The only thing that was good about that was the fact he would get no infection and wouldn't die so easy.
The bullet hole that went right through to the other side still looked fresh and was even slower to heal since the skin had burned. Xander was going to have to change the dressing and his shirt.
"Hey can you pull the cord on the privacy curtain so I can change?" he asked. Forrest walked over and pulled the cord. "Thanks," Xander opened a compartment that held a small first aid kit and an extra tee shirt.
"That's a bullet wound," Riley observed when Xander pulled his shirt over his head and peeled back the tape on his side.
"Really?" Xander asked, "I would never have noticed if the guy hadn't almost shot me point blank."
Riley winced sympathetically. "Need help?"
"Sure," Xander said handing over the alcohol pad while he took out little scissors to cut the gauze.
"How did it happen?" Forrest asked curious, but gently.
Xander snickered. "I was shot?" he asked innocently, "I don't recommend it though."
"I'll keep that in mind." Forrest said slowly.
"So. What happened between this morning and now that has you in a wheelchair?" Riley asked as Xander put a fresh tee shirt on and bagged the bloody stuff to dispose of later.
"The therapist wasn't happy with my progress so back in the chair I go." Xander said. "At least until I can get away with those arm brace crunches thing." He smiled, "Then I'll be falling on my face again."
Riley shook his head and rolled his eyes.
"Feel free to sit. I'm starting to feel short." Xander waved at the couches as Porter came back with an arm load of soda. The others laughed a little and sat taking their drinks.
"Will there be anything else Mr. Stone?" Porter asked reopening the curtains.
"Yes, make sure Willow and Oz find me when they arrive. And make sure my father isn't told about Mr. Harris," Xander said keeping an air of authority he didn't feel.
"Very good sir," Porter said. "I'll make sure your friends find you," he turned on his heel and strode away.
"You a big shot or something?" Forrest asked when Porter was out of sight.
"Or something," Xander replied "My grandfather owns this place. All the employees are hand picked by him. Even the main band that plays here. Not counting the fact the lead guitarist is my best friend's boyfriend."
"Wow," Forrest whistled, "Remind me not to piss you off."
Xander smirked, "Nah, the power hasn't gone to my head yet. Even if my family tries to spoil me rotten."
"When are your friends going to join you?" Riley asked, "I mean you weren't going to sit here all by yourself all night were you?"
Xander shrugged. "Dad will be back in a few hours. Willow and Oz should be here any minute." He caught a glimmer of red among the crowed. "And here they come."
Willow walked up a moment later Oz-less, but smiling. "Hey Xander, sorry we're late," she said breathless. "Oz went to go see if the band is ready and will come by after the first set, who are your friends?" She frowned at the three guys and focused on Xander seeing the wheelchair, "Oh Xander! What happened? Did someone hurt you? Are you alright?"
Xander smiled with his isn't-she-cute-when-she-babbles smile. "I'm fine Wills, "Sven just feels I need it for a few more weeks." He motioned to Riley. "This is Riley, I met him earlier today and these are his friends Forrest and Graham. Guys this is my best friend Willow."
Riley offered his hand, "Nice to meet you Willow."
"You too," Willow said shaking Riley's hand. She looked at him closer. "You're the TA in my Psychology class."
Riley smiled, "I thought I recognized you."
Willow smiled back then sat down on the empty couch next to Xander. She opened her mouth to speak several times shutting it again with a frown. Xander figured it was something Hellmouthy and struggled to think of some safe subject. The problem was it had just been the scoobies for so long there really wasn't anything they talked about unrelated to the Hellmouth.
"So have you heard from Angel lately?" Willow finally asked.
Xander smiled a little. "Yeah, grandpa called yesterday. He said something about Cordy showing up at his door step demanding a job. I'd feel sorry for him if it wasn't so ridiculously funny."
Willow smiled at that. Is Doyle still with him? They start that detective agency?"
The Hazel eyed Diamphire nodded. "Oh yeah Doyle I'm sure has fallen for Cordy by now and is drinking his way through the liquor cabinet to celebrate."
Willow giggled, "Xander that's mean."
Xander grinned. "But only in a nice way."
"Your grandfather owns a detective agency?" Riley asked interested.
Xander nodded. "Down in LA. He works with Doyle helping anyone that happens to walk through the door."
"Who's Doyle?" Came the natural question.
Xander smacked his forehead. "Sorry forgot." He apologized. "Doyle is a friend of the family's. He helped us out a while back and just kinda stayed around."
"He's cool," Willow agreed.
The canned music stopped and the stage lights came on illuminating the band in all of its glory. The Dingo's Ate My Baby started with a guitar solo played by Oz and soon enough Willow was out of her seat vanishing into the crowd.
"The boyfriend?" Riley asked as he watched her go.
"None other." Xander replied and sat hack to enjoy the music and wait for dad and Buffy to return.
***
"So what are we looking for this time?" Spike asked as he and the blond Slayer entered the gates to Rodchester cemetery.
"Giles said something about this police finding a mutilated body near the college. This being the closet cemetery I thought we'd sweep here and then do a walk of the campus."
Spike nodded. "Sounds good," he said." Then off to the Bronze for some much needed relaxation."
"You left Xander there?" Buffy asked. Spike nodded. "You think that's a good idea? I mean are you sure he's safe?"
"Not as safe as home, but Red's with him and Porter an' Gustaf have strict orders to inform me if anything should happen."
Buffy nodded, "That's good. I gatta admit you've changed for the better Spike."
For once in his unlife Spike took such a statement as a complement, "Thank you Slayer. Gatta do right by him, I do. That bastered did enough damage for one life time. It's time for something good in that boy's life," he looked side ways at the blond Slayer's hurt expression. "Family wise."
Buffy smiled. He does seem better."
Spike snorted. "He's a brat he is, an' I wouldn't want him any other way."
Buffy giggled, "Xander's not a brat. Sometimes obnoxious but not a brat."
"Hey that's my son you're talkin' 'bout!" he faked hurt, "And he is a brat!"
They laughed together.
"Really how is Xander doing?" Buffy asked after a moment.
Spike sighed and slumped against a grave stone. "Confusing," he stated fiddling with his stake. "Some day's he right as rain and is happy an' other days he's so depressed it's like a thick wall. Twice he's come to me and curled up with me to sleep. And if he's had a nightmare all bets are off of him even getting' within three feet of him."
"Ouch," Buffy commented sitting in another grave stone.
"Yeah," Spike said sadly. "And I don't know which is worse! His snuggling or him flitching away if I try to touch him."
Buffy frowned, "What do you mean?"
Spike frowned as well. "Well the other day he spent all of the day light hours avoiding me. Nearly screaming if I came near him. And then the moment the sun goes down he just appears and curls up and snuggles next to me while I was watching T.V. It was almost like he's scared of something, but I just don't know what."
"Have you asked?" Buffy asked resuming their walk. "I know, teenager and parental unit and all, but don't you think he'd tell you something?"
"Nothing,' Spike said, "He clams up or changes the subject to some other problem I know isn't what's causing his behavior. I've questioned Red, Oz, Ripper, even Sam- who by the way can get out from behind that crypt."
The tall blond demon walked out from the shadows of the nearest crypt, arms wrapped around him as if he were cold.
"How do you do that?" the Slayer asked Spike, "And why didn't you ask me if Xander told me anything?"
"Did he?" Spike asked.
"Well no," Buffy admitted. "But that's not the point."
"If you knew something would you be asking?" Sam asked quietly teeth chattering.
"You ok mate?" Spike asked stepping closer to the boy. Sam shook his head. "What happened?"
Sam shook his head again. "Something.I was walking and I felt something brush against me.cold, so cold.it felt like death and darkness."
Spike touched the side of the boy's face, he was soaking wet. "Where do you live Sam?"
Sam shivered, "No where, I wasn't suppose to be here this long. I wasn't provided lodging when my orders changed."
Spike nodded, "Alright come on then, lets get you cleaned up." He looked back at Buffy. "Can you go to the Bronze and get Xander for me?"
"Yeah sure Spike," Buffy said with out complaint looking at Sam worriedly. Spike smiled at her in gratitude and lead Sam off to his car. Buffy vanished into the shadows seconds later.
***
Xander and Riley were left alone while Forrest and Graham found a pair of girls to dance with. Willow was still amidst the crowd still swaying to the sound of Oz' guitar. They were on their second pitcher of soda, on a sugar high and talking none stop seeing how many languages they could switch before the other got lost.
Xander so far was winning.
"Ah damn I'm back to English." Riley said downing his soda. "I can't believe you know ancient Greek."
Xander grinned pouring them the rest of the pitcher, "I can't believe you don't."
Riley shrugged, "I haven't gotten around to it."
"Uh-huh." Xander said still grinning.
"And how did you learn so many languages?" Riley asked accusingly. "You're barely out of high school."
"Had to do something in high school you know?" Xander said, "Kept it interesting."
"Xander!" Buffy exclaimed walking up to the pair quickly.
"Buffy?" Xander went immediately on alert. "What's wrong? Where's dad?"
"It's Sam," Buffy said breathless, "He's been hurt, your dad took him home and asked me to come get you."
Xander nodded looking apologetically at Riley. Then a thought occurred to him. "Buffy my chair can't fit in your mom's car. Why do you think dad got a separate car?"
Buffy frowned, "I guess we can wait for Oz."
"Band stuff," Xander said "Plus most of his living space."
"I guess I could run and get Spike's car." Buffy's frowned deepened.
"My car's big enough." Riley suddenly said. "The back seat folds into the floor, but then there would only be room for two."
Buffy stared at the blond measuringly then sighed. "Ok, I'll stay here and make sure Willow's alright."
"Let's go then, thanks Buff." Xander said unlocking his chair and wheeling out following Riley to the parking lot.
What about your friends?" Xander asked once they were outside."
"Forrest brought his own car, I'm sure he'll give Graham a ride." Riley said unlocking his car door. "Do you need help?"
Xander shook his head and levered himself up into the passenger seat. Riley nodded and lowered his back seat then lifted the surprisingly light chair into the back setting its brakes so it wouldn't move. They were on the road minutes later headed for the address Xander gave him.
***
Frank Harris drunkenly stumbled down the street mumbling to himself. That good for nothing brat. Where does he get off telling me I have no rights to him? I raised him! And that two-bit blond can't be his real father! Can't anyone else see the man isn't even thirty! He has to be the little shits lover!
He was so engrossed in his silent ramblings he didn't notice the three vampires silently following him. They moved in for the kill quickly and efficiently. Just as they readied to attack, a shadowed figure reached out of the dark and grabbed the drunken man engulfing him in shadow. All that was left was an empty street. The vampires had fled; they knew that that shadow was to be feared.
More then the Mro'nic'ta.