Hello, All:)
Wow, twice in a row, I am on time! A big cupie doll to my betas, Eliz and Brat for helping me out and doing it in record time. Actually, a huge computer malfunction erased this chapter, but Brat had it saved so that I can present it on time to you:) Thanks all.
Regarding feedback, you guys *rock*! Keep it coming. I am so incredibly flattered, honoured and happy to have you all as my readers. I could not ask for a better bunch of folks. Your comments are so helpful to me and help me write more and write faster.
With that in mind, I *hope* to give you back to back chapters and release again tomorrow. So, keep an eye out, or, if you haven't already, sign up for the yahoo group and I will be sure to let you know. If not tomorrow, I will get it out Wednesday.
Thanks again:)
*Cheery Vibes*, Nimue
"As sick as it sounds, in my little head, there's a little Sunnydale, and a widdle Spike and a widdle Buffy and Spike wubs Buffy." James Marsters 14 July 2002
Title: Newsflash (Time - Chapter Three)
Author: Nimue
Rating: PG -13
Pairing Buffy/Spike. Most major characters included.
Feedback: Yes, please
Disclaimer: All characters belong to Joss Whedon, Mutant Enemy, UPN, Fox... Just Borrowing. (with, of course, the exception of Emma, who belongs to Buffy and Spike)
Summary: Set immediately following Discoveries. The Captain gets his orders. Spike and Buffy hear Giles' tale of the missing months. Willow and Tara run into Xander and his mystery woman. Xander finds out something about his new friend that he never wanted to know.
Newsflash
A sharp rap at the door roused him from his thoughts. He stood, straightening his uniform slacks, and strode to the door of his apartment. Crisply, he opened the door to find a young officer standing at attention in the hall, carrying a dossier.
"Captain? General Conners sent this for you," the man said, handing the locked dossier to his fresh faced superior and resuming attention.
The Captain smiled kindly. "Thank you. Dismissed."
The younger soldier scampered away as if frightened.
The door clicked shut and he made his way to the couch, setting the dossier on the coffee table. He studied it for a moment, eyeing the seal. The security precautions. Slowly, he unlocked the soft leather case and opened it, removing a single envelope. He slid the long steel opener underneath the flap and pulled out a small slip of paper, no bigger than a note card.
On it was a name.
Windsor.
And an address.
In Sunnydale, California.
He jumped at first. He knew the address, but not the name. Then a slow smile broke on his face. She was married now. Or someone else was in the house. Or changed her name. Or she was running scared. This was going to be easier than he thought.
"That the messenger, baby?" A female voice called into the room. She padded in, her hair still damp from a shower.
"Indeed it is. You packed?" He responded, turning to face her. She was beautiful, powerful, standing there in just a towel.
"Packed and ready, sir," she answered, grinning and feigning a salute.
"You understand what this mission entails?" The Captain asked, walking towards her.
"I do," she whispered in response, her voice breathy at his approach.
"Good," he answered, turning her back to him. The mark of the dragon glowed on the nape of her neck. Throbbing with his power. His glory. He leaned down to kiss the mark, then patted her behind. "Get dressed. We leave in fifteen."
"Yes, sir," she answered, almost absently. "Where are we going?" She craned her head over her shoulder to look at him.
The Captain smiled. A grin that would have scared her before... "We're going back to Sunnydale."
*****
"What... what's the special occasion, baby?" Willow asked, with both arms wrapped around Tara. They strolled through the doors of the finest restaurant in Sunnydale, arm in arm.
"You've just been working so hard, Will. I thought you deserved a night on the town," Tara answered, leaning over to kiss her lover.
"Tara, you're doing enough paying for the apartment and food and ... and... caffeine... " Willow bubbled as the head waiter walked them towards a corner table.
Before she could respond, Tara paused, her body tensing.
"What is it?" Willow asked, stopping with a slight jerk next to her. Tara nodded her head to a candlelit table in a dark corner of the restaurant.
"Is.. is that Xander?" Tara asked. The redhead squinted and then nodded slowly.
Tara looked again and the woman that he was dining with turned her head, nearly catching her gaze. Tara gasped, pushing Willow forward with her hip. Willow stumbled, but headed towards the table. "Could you make out who he was with?" Willow asked as the host seated them both and walked away.
"Y...yes," Tara answered hesitantly.
"Well, who?" Willow pushed, a grin spreading across her face.
Tara was quiet and her lover's smile dropped at the sudden silence. "Will, I don't think this is good."
"Why? Is it someone evil? Some Meanie Mc Meaniepants?" Willow asked, concern lacing even her lighthearted words.
"No. Not that," Tara answered. "Actually, she's great. Smart. Funny. Independent."
"Sounds like *you* might be interested," Willow chided, smiling.
"Never," Tara replied, a reassuring smile breaking over her lips.
"Then what?" Willow took a sip of water and waited for Tara to explain.
Tara fidgeted with the linen napkin. "Will, you know how Xander has some... issues... with demons?"
"Demons bad. Humans good," Willow answered, mimicking Xander.
"Right. Which we know isn't true. Look at Spike. At Clem," Tara stuttered.
"I think Xander got it from Buffy," Willow mused, becoming more serious.
"And for her, it's understandable. I mean, with her job, she can't spend a whole lot of time questioning the nature of a demon or she'd be lunch. Still, you know she doesn't fully believe that or Clem wouldn't baby-sit her daughter and she wouldn't be about to pop from her second child with a Vampire," Tara reasoned.
"Tara," Willow said quietly. "Where are we headed here?"
"The woman Xander is with," Tara breathed, "Is half demon. A hybrid." The last bit came out in a rush of air.
A look of shock and then worry crossed Willow's face. "Are you sure? How do you know?"
"Because," Tara answered. "I know her. We all know her."
The redhead studied her a moment. "W... who?"
"Takina," Tara said softly.
Willow's eyes flew open like blinds in a cartoon. "The doctor Takina? Tall, dark and beautiful Takina?"
"Who sounds interested now?" Tara snarked, smiling.
Willow was beyond joking, the shock of it hitting her full force. "Xander? And Takina?"
"Looks that way," Tara commented. "And she *is* perfect for him, but I wonder if he knows..."
"It really shouldn't matter," Willow replied softly. " I mean, if he likes her and all."
"Agreed, but you know...." Tara rearranged her fork and knife nervously.
"That he won't get that," Willow completed. "I wonder if we should tell him?"
"No," Tara said confidently. "Let her handle it when she's ready. Maybe she has already."
Willow chuckled. "I thought you said Xander was still at the table with her."
"Not funny," Tara giggled. "I mean, maybe he learned something from Buffy and Spike. From..."
"Anya?" Willow questioned.
"Yeah," Tara answered. "I mean, life's too short to question love."
Willow lifted Tara's hand to her lips, kissing it softly. "Which is why I am so glad for you."
*****
The car ride to Giles' new apartment was utterly silent. They had all tried to find a place to start, but there was far too much to go over while cramped in a car. Even Emma was mostly quiet, save for a short conversation with her bunny and the sound of her shoes hitting the floor.
They had decided to go straight to Giles' new apartment. In the few words he had said in the airport, he had told Spike that he'd rather not let the rest of them know of their arrival. At least, not yet.
Spike pulled the car to the curb of a complex not far from Revello. The engine shuddered and died into silence. "Rupert, let's get your luggage. Buffy, can you...?"
"I've got Emma," Buffy completed, unbuckling and awkwardly climbing out of the car.
"I... I can help. If you want," Anya said shyly. Buffy turned her head and smiled.
"That'd be great," she replied. "Just, um, unhook her. Don't worry about her shoes, but *don't* leave the bunny." Anya cringed at the site of the stuffed critter and Buffy shrugged. Still, the demon unhooked the little girl from her car seat and scooped both her and the fuzzy juggernaut into her arms.
The apartment was on the third floor. It was large and Giles had had it furnished before he arrived. It was appointed in rich leather and dark wood with carpets of hunter and burgundy and gold.
"Well," Anya said, carrying Emma in behind the men. "It's a nice apartment, but it could use a woman's touch."
"I'm quite sure you'll take care of that, dear," Giles responded, setting down her suitcase and kissing her softly, Emma pressed between them. Buffy appeared in the doorway, shaking her head as if to clear an odd thought.
"Ok. Weird, much?" Buffy said as she moved across the room and sat gingerly in an oversized love seat. Spike watched her a moment, trying to judge her mood and deciding that curiosity was more her concern. He walked to Anya, looking at her as if he'd seen a ghost, and gently took Emma back, thanking her for carrying her up the stairs.
"It seems we have quite a lot to discuss," Giles commented, taking Anya's hand and leading her to the couch across from Buffy. Spike followed, taking a seat next to his love and letting Emma down to the floor. Immediately, the little girl took her bunny and headed towards an open patch of carpet, losing herself in her own world and leaving the grown-ups to sort it out.
"It seems we do," Spike responded, calmly.
"Where do we begin?" Giles removed his glasses, wiping them on his shirttail as he spoke. Anya was quiet, tucking her legs underneath her, alternating her gaze between the horrible stuffed rodent, Giles' hand and Buffy's stomach.
"Let's start with mystery Giles showing up macking on Anya, who we thought was dead," Buffy blurted.
"Buffy," Spike said quietly, stroking her arm. "Let's hear them out, alright?" He leaned closer, speaking nearly inaudibly into her ear and brushing his hand over her belly, "Let's not be so quick to judge."
"I... I'm sorry," Buffy amended nervously. "Shock value... right up there near yikes."
"I understand," Giles replied, putting his glasses back on. "I didn't mean to upset you."
"No," Buffy sighed. "Not upset. Weirded out, maybe. Surprised."
"I could say the same," the Watcher retorted. Spike shot him a glance, warning him to take it easy. The Vampire almost wished he had told Giles before this meeting. The way things were going, one more good jolt to Buffy emotionally and she might end up in the hospital.
Anya looked up. "I'm very happy for you, Buffy."
Buffy's eyes shot open. Either someone who looked a lot like Anya came back with Giles, or seven months with him had changed her completely. "Th.. thank you," Buffy stuttered. "I'm glad that you're OK. I guess I just wish we had known. I mean... there was a memorial service and..."
"You guys had a memorial for me?" Anya asked, tears in her eyes.
"Well, yeah. I mean you were... are... our friend," Buffy replied softly.
"Thanks." The demon smiled, genuinely touched by the thought.
"Anya," Giles began, "Survived the ritual of the First."
"How?" Spike interrupted. "I... I was there. I saw..."
A look of terror crossed Anya's face. Giles wrapped an arm around her shoulder, shooting a glare back at Spike, similar to Spike's previous warning. Immediately, Spike fell silent. "I know what you saw," Giles continued. "But Anya had made a deal prior to the events..."
"D'Hoffryn promised to return me if I...," Anya stuttered.
"Got your vengeance on," Buffy deduced. "So, you're a demon again?" It was an honest question, but she could almost feel the inadvertently accusatory tone she had taken. Spike squeezed her hand softly. "I mean, you had to go back to work?"
"Mostly, I'm a demon," Anya answered, shifting nervously.
"Mostly?" Spike questioned, raising an eyebrow.
"Quite like you, Spike," Giles responded for her. "She has a heartbeat and normal human physiology, as well as a soul."
"A *human* soul?" Buffy asked. Spike leaned forward, his face curious and interested.
"Same one," Anya replied softly.
"Doesn't that make vengeance tough?" Buffy questioned, looking closely at the girl.
"It's not so bad," Anya answered. "Just more of the eternal paper cut route than killing and dismembering. I can sleep most nights."
The room was silent. Both Buffy and Spike habitually glanced over at Emma, but she was playing happily on the floor with the rabbit. Finally, Buffy broke the silence. "So, what about...?" She gestured at the two of them.
"Us?" Giles asked.
"How?" Buffy questioned, trying to wrap her mind around it.
Giles explained the months in the cottage and how the relationship had just... happened. That Buffy, of all people, should understand that one rarely knows why or how they fall in love. It just eventually occurs to them that it is *right*. Buffy nodded in agreement, feeling Spike watching her. Feeling how much he loved her, despite their relationship being possibly the single *least* likely on the planet. She grabbed Spike's hand as Giles spoke and felt Spike relax into her. Melting. As if they were really just One.
When the Watcher finished, Buffy looked at him closely. "I get it. I really do. And I'm really glad you're happy." She paused a moment, trying to phrase the last thing on her mind. "I just have one other question."
"What is it?" Giles asked softly.
"What about Xander?"
*****
"Takina," Xander said softly as they walked down the street towards her apartment. Something told him that they might be taking a significant leap in their relationship tonight and he wanted to be sure that she knew that he cared. More than cared. He felt like he'd met his match.
"What is it?" She smiled. She was so beautiful. Exactly his height with smooth, creamy skin, long, beautiful legs, and a tumble of dark, shiny hair. And those eyes. Those stormy gray-blue eyes caught him off guard every time he looked at her. They made his heart stop.
Xander took her hand and lead her to a park bench. His hands were strong. Everything was now. Once he'd started seeing her, he decided to get his act together. Eating well. Working out. Stopping after one beer, if he even drank that. She had changed him, or rather, he changed himself for her.
"There's something I want to... that I'd like to..." Xander stuttered.
"Xander," Takina interrupted in that purr of a voice. "There is no need. " Her hand found his again and her thumb traced the contours of his palm.
"There is," Xander said quietly. "I feel like I've been running since she... since..."
"Anya," Takina completed, encouragingly. "Xander, I know you loved her. You can say her name. You *should* still care. Still hurt. It's alright. I would be more worried if you didn't."
Xander smiled at her, cupping her cheek in his palm. "Why are you so... perfect?"
She laughed. A deep, rich sound. "I am *far* from perfect. I just understand love. It's not about *what* we are or where we have been so much as *who* we are and where we are headed."
"That... that's what I'm trying to say," Xander sighed, toying with her fingers. "In an oh so manly and eloquent way."
She laughed again, the sound lighting up her face. "What is?"
"Takina, I... I think I'm... oh, hell, I'm falling in love with you," he blurted, his eyes watching her face. She flashed a nervous glance at him before she turned away, studying the hem of her skirt.
"Xander, we need to talk." Her voice was trembling. Sullen.
"Ok. Not the reaction I was hoping for," Xander snarked, his hand running nervously through his hair.
"No, no. It's not that," Takina answered, still looking towards her knees. "My feelings are much the same."
"Then what? Why?" He was looking at her as she studied her shoes.
Takina sighed. "There is something about me that you need to know before you make statements like that."
His brown furrowed. "Takina, baby, there is *nothing* about you that can change..."
"Xander," Takina interrupted. She looked up at him and her eyes were glowing. A soft white light replaced her stormy gray eyes, brightening her face in an almost angelic haze. He blinked, trying to understand.
"Takina?" His first reaction was to run, but the tears drizzling from the corners of the perfect eyes stopped him dead.
"I'm a hybrid, Xander," she whispered, looking away. When she caught his gaze again, her eyes were normal.
"A... a hybrid?" Xander questioned.
"Half demon. My mother is human. My father a Taraq demon," she answered as matter of factly as she could manage.
"Taraq?" His voice was shaking, his mind reeling.
"Healers," the woman chuckled nervously. "Thus my line of work."
"But... but you are human?" Xander asked, torn between being repulsed and in love.
She shook her head. "I am both. I am human, but I am also demon."
Xander stared at her closely, watching her heart stopping eyes. Trying. Searching. Finally, he looked away.
*****
Anya sighed. Giles looked at her closely, then squeezed her a little closer. "I loved him," she finally said. "But, Buffy, he really didn't love me. Or at least not the way that I needed him to. I can say forever that I'd get over what... he did... but I couldn't. I can't." Tears filled her eyes and Giles looked away. Spike tried to keep eye contact, but he could not watch either. He'd always liked the girl and watching her suffer was like stabbing the chivalrous part of him straight through the heart.
Buffy seemed to agree. "Anya... you don't have to explain to me..."
"No," Anya continued, wiping her eyes. "I do. I mean, I want you to understand. He couldn't accept me as a human and you know how he feels about demons..."
"Not so good," Buffy commented.
"Understatement," Spike mumbled. Buffy nudged him softly with her knee.
"And Rupert," Anya went on, her face brightening, "Showed me that it was what I did that mattered. Not what I am. He believes in me. No one ever believed in me."
Buffy looked away, a wave of guilt crashing into her. "Anya, I... I'm sorry."
"No," the demon replied. "Don't be. I'm happy now. I feel... good. Like this is all worth it. So, in the end, it all worked out."
"I'm glad," Buffy said softly, looking her in the eyes. "Are you going to be OK talking to Xander? I mean, if you want, I can..."
"I'll talk to Xander," Giles interrupted.
Anya looked at them both. "No," she said strongly. "I'll handle it. He should hear it from me."
"Anya," Giles sighed.
"Rupert, please. He deserves that much. We lied to them," Anya argued. She turned her attention back to Buffy and Spike. "Buffy, I know we lied to you both as well. Rupert only did it because I begged him. I wasn't... I wasn't ready. But this is where he belongs. With you and Spike and Emma and..." she nodded at Buffy's unborn child.
"William," Buffy said softly.
Anya smiled. "William," she repeated. "And I hope you'll forgive us and that maybe we can be... friends again?"
"Nothing to forgive," Spike interjected. "You did what you had to do."
Buffy looked at Spike, then back to Anya. "It's a little weird for me, but hey, weird is kind of normal. I think."
Spike chuckled, pulling Buffy closer. She settled against his shoulder and he planted a kiss on the crown of her head. She heard him whisper in that barely audible voice "That's my girl."
The room was silent again. Emma crawled back onto the couch, curling in next to her mum. Giles looked at the odd but strangely beautiful little family. "I do believe it's your turn," he said, gesturing at the pair. "I see that you have news as well."
To be contd.
Wow, twice in a row, I am on time! A big cupie doll to my betas, Eliz and Brat for helping me out and doing it in record time. Actually, a huge computer malfunction erased this chapter, but Brat had it saved so that I can present it on time to you:) Thanks all.
Regarding feedback, you guys *rock*! Keep it coming. I am so incredibly flattered, honoured and happy to have you all as my readers. I could not ask for a better bunch of folks. Your comments are so helpful to me and help me write more and write faster.
With that in mind, I *hope* to give you back to back chapters and release again tomorrow. So, keep an eye out, or, if you haven't already, sign up for the yahoo group and I will be sure to let you know. If not tomorrow, I will get it out Wednesday.
Thanks again:)
*Cheery Vibes*, Nimue
"As sick as it sounds, in my little head, there's a little Sunnydale, and a widdle Spike and a widdle Buffy and Spike wubs Buffy." James Marsters 14 July 2002
Title: Newsflash (Time - Chapter Three)
Author: Nimue
Rating: PG -13
Pairing Buffy/Spike. Most major characters included.
Feedback: Yes, please
Disclaimer: All characters belong to Joss Whedon, Mutant Enemy, UPN, Fox... Just Borrowing. (with, of course, the exception of Emma, who belongs to Buffy and Spike)
Summary: Set immediately following Discoveries. The Captain gets his orders. Spike and Buffy hear Giles' tale of the missing months. Willow and Tara run into Xander and his mystery woman. Xander finds out something about his new friend that he never wanted to know.
Newsflash
A sharp rap at the door roused him from his thoughts. He stood, straightening his uniform slacks, and strode to the door of his apartment. Crisply, he opened the door to find a young officer standing at attention in the hall, carrying a dossier.
"Captain? General Conners sent this for you," the man said, handing the locked dossier to his fresh faced superior and resuming attention.
The Captain smiled kindly. "Thank you. Dismissed."
The younger soldier scampered away as if frightened.
The door clicked shut and he made his way to the couch, setting the dossier on the coffee table. He studied it for a moment, eyeing the seal. The security precautions. Slowly, he unlocked the soft leather case and opened it, removing a single envelope. He slid the long steel opener underneath the flap and pulled out a small slip of paper, no bigger than a note card.
On it was a name.
Windsor.
And an address.
In Sunnydale, California.
He jumped at first. He knew the address, but not the name. Then a slow smile broke on his face. She was married now. Or someone else was in the house. Or changed her name. Or she was running scared. This was going to be easier than he thought.
"That the messenger, baby?" A female voice called into the room. She padded in, her hair still damp from a shower.
"Indeed it is. You packed?" He responded, turning to face her. She was beautiful, powerful, standing there in just a towel.
"Packed and ready, sir," she answered, grinning and feigning a salute.
"You understand what this mission entails?" The Captain asked, walking towards her.
"I do," she whispered in response, her voice breathy at his approach.
"Good," he answered, turning her back to him. The mark of the dragon glowed on the nape of her neck. Throbbing with his power. His glory. He leaned down to kiss the mark, then patted her behind. "Get dressed. We leave in fifteen."
"Yes, sir," she answered, almost absently. "Where are we going?" She craned her head over her shoulder to look at him.
The Captain smiled. A grin that would have scared her before... "We're going back to Sunnydale."
*****
"What... what's the special occasion, baby?" Willow asked, with both arms wrapped around Tara. They strolled through the doors of the finest restaurant in Sunnydale, arm in arm.
"You've just been working so hard, Will. I thought you deserved a night on the town," Tara answered, leaning over to kiss her lover.
"Tara, you're doing enough paying for the apartment and food and ... and... caffeine... " Willow bubbled as the head waiter walked them towards a corner table.
Before she could respond, Tara paused, her body tensing.
"What is it?" Willow asked, stopping with a slight jerk next to her. Tara nodded her head to a candlelit table in a dark corner of the restaurant.
"Is.. is that Xander?" Tara asked. The redhead squinted and then nodded slowly.
Tara looked again and the woman that he was dining with turned her head, nearly catching her gaze. Tara gasped, pushing Willow forward with her hip. Willow stumbled, but headed towards the table. "Could you make out who he was with?" Willow asked as the host seated them both and walked away.
"Y...yes," Tara answered hesitantly.
"Well, who?" Willow pushed, a grin spreading across her face.
Tara was quiet and her lover's smile dropped at the sudden silence. "Will, I don't think this is good."
"Why? Is it someone evil? Some Meanie Mc Meaniepants?" Willow asked, concern lacing even her lighthearted words.
"No. Not that," Tara answered. "Actually, she's great. Smart. Funny. Independent."
"Sounds like *you* might be interested," Willow chided, smiling.
"Never," Tara replied, a reassuring smile breaking over her lips.
"Then what?" Willow took a sip of water and waited for Tara to explain.
Tara fidgeted with the linen napkin. "Will, you know how Xander has some... issues... with demons?"
"Demons bad. Humans good," Willow answered, mimicking Xander.
"Right. Which we know isn't true. Look at Spike. At Clem," Tara stuttered.
"I think Xander got it from Buffy," Willow mused, becoming more serious.
"And for her, it's understandable. I mean, with her job, she can't spend a whole lot of time questioning the nature of a demon or she'd be lunch. Still, you know she doesn't fully believe that or Clem wouldn't baby-sit her daughter and she wouldn't be about to pop from her second child with a Vampire," Tara reasoned.
"Tara," Willow said quietly. "Where are we headed here?"
"The woman Xander is with," Tara breathed, "Is half demon. A hybrid." The last bit came out in a rush of air.
A look of shock and then worry crossed Willow's face. "Are you sure? How do you know?"
"Because," Tara answered. "I know her. We all know her."
The redhead studied her a moment. "W... who?"
"Takina," Tara said softly.
Willow's eyes flew open like blinds in a cartoon. "The doctor Takina? Tall, dark and beautiful Takina?"
"Who sounds interested now?" Tara snarked, smiling.
Willow was beyond joking, the shock of it hitting her full force. "Xander? And Takina?"
"Looks that way," Tara commented. "And she *is* perfect for him, but I wonder if he knows..."
"It really shouldn't matter," Willow replied softly. " I mean, if he likes her and all."
"Agreed, but you know...." Tara rearranged her fork and knife nervously.
"That he won't get that," Willow completed. "I wonder if we should tell him?"
"No," Tara said confidently. "Let her handle it when she's ready. Maybe she has already."
Willow chuckled. "I thought you said Xander was still at the table with her."
"Not funny," Tara giggled. "I mean, maybe he learned something from Buffy and Spike. From..."
"Anya?" Willow questioned.
"Yeah," Tara answered. "I mean, life's too short to question love."
Willow lifted Tara's hand to her lips, kissing it softly. "Which is why I am so glad for you."
*****
The car ride to Giles' new apartment was utterly silent. They had all tried to find a place to start, but there was far too much to go over while cramped in a car. Even Emma was mostly quiet, save for a short conversation with her bunny and the sound of her shoes hitting the floor.
They had decided to go straight to Giles' new apartment. In the few words he had said in the airport, he had told Spike that he'd rather not let the rest of them know of their arrival. At least, not yet.
Spike pulled the car to the curb of a complex not far from Revello. The engine shuddered and died into silence. "Rupert, let's get your luggage. Buffy, can you...?"
"I've got Emma," Buffy completed, unbuckling and awkwardly climbing out of the car.
"I... I can help. If you want," Anya said shyly. Buffy turned her head and smiled.
"That'd be great," she replied. "Just, um, unhook her. Don't worry about her shoes, but *don't* leave the bunny." Anya cringed at the site of the stuffed critter and Buffy shrugged. Still, the demon unhooked the little girl from her car seat and scooped both her and the fuzzy juggernaut into her arms.
The apartment was on the third floor. It was large and Giles had had it furnished before he arrived. It was appointed in rich leather and dark wood with carpets of hunter and burgundy and gold.
"Well," Anya said, carrying Emma in behind the men. "It's a nice apartment, but it could use a woman's touch."
"I'm quite sure you'll take care of that, dear," Giles responded, setting down her suitcase and kissing her softly, Emma pressed between them. Buffy appeared in the doorway, shaking her head as if to clear an odd thought.
"Ok. Weird, much?" Buffy said as she moved across the room and sat gingerly in an oversized love seat. Spike watched her a moment, trying to judge her mood and deciding that curiosity was more her concern. He walked to Anya, looking at her as if he'd seen a ghost, and gently took Emma back, thanking her for carrying her up the stairs.
"It seems we have quite a lot to discuss," Giles commented, taking Anya's hand and leading her to the couch across from Buffy. Spike followed, taking a seat next to his love and letting Emma down to the floor. Immediately, the little girl took her bunny and headed towards an open patch of carpet, losing herself in her own world and leaving the grown-ups to sort it out.
"It seems we do," Spike responded, calmly.
"Where do we begin?" Giles removed his glasses, wiping them on his shirttail as he spoke. Anya was quiet, tucking her legs underneath her, alternating her gaze between the horrible stuffed rodent, Giles' hand and Buffy's stomach.
"Let's start with mystery Giles showing up macking on Anya, who we thought was dead," Buffy blurted.
"Buffy," Spike said quietly, stroking her arm. "Let's hear them out, alright?" He leaned closer, speaking nearly inaudibly into her ear and brushing his hand over her belly, "Let's not be so quick to judge."
"I... I'm sorry," Buffy amended nervously. "Shock value... right up there near yikes."
"I understand," Giles replied, putting his glasses back on. "I didn't mean to upset you."
"No," Buffy sighed. "Not upset. Weirded out, maybe. Surprised."
"I could say the same," the Watcher retorted. Spike shot him a glance, warning him to take it easy. The Vampire almost wished he had told Giles before this meeting. The way things were going, one more good jolt to Buffy emotionally and she might end up in the hospital.
Anya looked up. "I'm very happy for you, Buffy."
Buffy's eyes shot open. Either someone who looked a lot like Anya came back with Giles, or seven months with him had changed her completely. "Th.. thank you," Buffy stuttered. "I'm glad that you're OK. I guess I just wish we had known. I mean... there was a memorial service and..."
"You guys had a memorial for me?" Anya asked, tears in her eyes.
"Well, yeah. I mean you were... are... our friend," Buffy replied softly.
"Thanks." The demon smiled, genuinely touched by the thought.
"Anya," Giles began, "Survived the ritual of the First."
"How?" Spike interrupted. "I... I was there. I saw..."
A look of terror crossed Anya's face. Giles wrapped an arm around her shoulder, shooting a glare back at Spike, similar to Spike's previous warning. Immediately, Spike fell silent. "I know what you saw," Giles continued. "But Anya had made a deal prior to the events..."
"D'Hoffryn promised to return me if I...," Anya stuttered.
"Got your vengeance on," Buffy deduced. "So, you're a demon again?" It was an honest question, but she could almost feel the inadvertently accusatory tone she had taken. Spike squeezed her hand softly. "I mean, you had to go back to work?"
"Mostly, I'm a demon," Anya answered, shifting nervously.
"Mostly?" Spike questioned, raising an eyebrow.
"Quite like you, Spike," Giles responded for her. "She has a heartbeat and normal human physiology, as well as a soul."
"A *human* soul?" Buffy asked. Spike leaned forward, his face curious and interested.
"Same one," Anya replied softly.
"Doesn't that make vengeance tough?" Buffy questioned, looking closely at the girl.
"It's not so bad," Anya answered. "Just more of the eternal paper cut route than killing and dismembering. I can sleep most nights."
The room was silent. Both Buffy and Spike habitually glanced over at Emma, but she was playing happily on the floor with the rabbit. Finally, Buffy broke the silence. "So, what about...?" She gestured at the two of them.
"Us?" Giles asked.
"How?" Buffy questioned, trying to wrap her mind around it.
Giles explained the months in the cottage and how the relationship had just... happened. That Buffy, of all people, should understand that one rarely knows why or how they fall in love. It just eventually occurs to them that it is *right*. Buffy nodded in agreement, feeling Spike watching her. Feeling how much he loved her, despite their relationship being possibly the single *least* likely on the planet. She grabbed Spike's hand as Giles spoke and felt Spike relax into her. Melting. As if they were really just One.
When the Watcher finished, Buffy looked at him closely. "I get it. I really do. And I'm really glad you're happy." She paused a moment, trying to phrase the last thing on her mind. "I just have one other question."
"What is it?" Giles asked softly.
"What about Xander?"
*****
"Takina," Xander said softly as they walked down the street towards her apartment. Something told him that they might be taking a significant leap in their relationship tonight and he wanted to be sure that she knew that he cared. More than cared. He felt like he'd met his match.
"What is it?" She smiled. She was so beautiful. Exactly his height with smooth, creamy skin, long, beautiful legs, and a tumble of dark, shiny hair. And those eyes. Those stormy gray-blue eyes caught him off guard every time he looked at her. They made his heart stop.
Xander took her hand and lead her to a park bench. His hands were strong. Everything was now. Once he'd started seeing her, he decided to get his act together. Eating well. Working out. Stopping after one beer, if he even drank that. She had changed him, or rather, he changed himself for her.
"There's something I want to... that I'd like to..." Xander stuttered.
"Xander," Takina interrupted in that purr of a voice. "There is no need. " Her hand found his again and her thumb traced the contours of his palm.
"There is," Xander said quietly. "I feel like I've been running since she... since..."
"Anya," Takina completed, encouragingly. "Xander, I know you loved her. You can say her name. You *should* still care. Still hurt. It's alright. I would be more worried if you didn't."
Xander smiled at her, cupping her cheek in his palm. "Why are you so... perfect?"
She laughed. A deep, rich sound. "I am *far* from perfect. I just understand love. It's not about *what* we are or where we have been so much as *who* we are and where we are headed."
"That... that's what I'm trying to say," Xander sighed, toying with her fingers. "In an oh so manly and eloquent way."
She laughed again, the sound lighting up her face. "What is?"
"Takina, I... I think I'm... oh, hell, I'm falling in love with you," he blurted, his eyes watching her face. She flashed a nervous glance at him before she turned away, studying the hem of her skirt.
"Xander, we need to talk." Her voice was trembling. Sullen.
"Ok. Not the reaction I was hoping for," Xander snarked, his hand running nervously through his hair.
"No, no. It's not that," Takina answered, still looking towards her knees. "My feelings are much the same."
"Then what? Why?" He was looking at her as she studied her shoes.
Takina sighed. "There is something about me that you need to know before you make statements like that."
His brown furrowed. "Takina, baby, there is *nothing* about you that can change..."
"Xander," Takina interrupted. She looked up at him and her eyes were glowing. A soft white light replaced her stormy gray eyes, brightening her face in an almost angelic haze. He blinked, trying to understand.
"Takina?" His first reaction was to run, but the tears drizzling from the corners of the perfect eyes stopped him dead.
"I'm a hybrid, Xander," she whispered, looking away. When she caught his gaze again, her eyes were normal.
"A... a hybrid?" Xander questioned.
"Half demon. My mother is human. My father a Taraq demon," she answered as matter of factly as she could manage.
"Taraq?" His voice was shaking, his mind reeling.
"Healers," the woman chuckled nervously. "Thus my line of work."
"But... but you are human?" Xander asked, torn between being repulsed and in love.
She shook her head. "I am both. I am human, but I am also demon."
Xander stared at her closely, watching her heart stopping eyes. Trying. Searching. Finally, he looked away.
*****
Anya sighed. Giles looked at her closely, then squeezed her a little closer. "I loved him," she finally said. "But, Buffy, he really didn't love me. Or at least not the way that I needed him to. I can say forever that I'd get over what... he did... but I couldn't. I can't." Tears filled her eyes and Giles looked away. Spike tried to keep eye contact, but he could not watch either. He'd always liked the girl and watching her suffer was like stabbing the chivalrous part of him straight through the heart.
Buffy seemed to agree. "Anya... you don't have to explain to me..."
"No," Anya continued, wiping her eyes. "I do. I mean, I want you to understand. He couldn't accept me as a human and you know how he feels about demons..."
"Not so good," Buffy commented.
"Understatement," Spike mumbled. Buffy nudged him softly with her knee.
"And Rupert," Anya went on, her face brightening, "Showed me that it was what I did that mattered. Not what I am. He believes in me. No one ever believed in me."
Buffy looked away, a wave of guilt crashing into her. "Anya, I... I'm sorry."
"No," the demon replied. "Don't be. I'm happy now. I feel... good. Like this is all worth it. So, in the end, it all worked out."
"I'm glad," Buffy said softly, looking her in the eyes. "Are you going to be OK talking to Xander? I mean, if you want, I can..."
"I'll talk to Xander," Giles interrupted.
Anya looked at them both. "No," she said strongly. "I'll handle it. He should hear it from me."
"Anya," Giles sighed.
"Rupert, please. He deserves that much. We lied to them," Anya argued. She turned her attention back to Buffy and Spike. "Buffy, I know we lied to you both as well. Rupert only did it because I begged him. I wasn't... I wasn't ready. But this is where he belongs. With you and Spike and Emma and..." she nodded at Buffy's unborn child.
"William," Buffy said softly.
Anya smiled. "William," she repeated. "And I hope you'll forgive us and that maybe we can be... friends again?"
"Nothing to forgive," Spike interjected. "You did what you had to do."
Buffy looked at Spike, then back to Anya. "It's a little weird for me, but hey, weird is kind of normal. I think."
Spike chuckled, pulling Buffy closer. She settled against his shoulder and he planted a kiss on the crown of her head. She heard him whisper in that barely audible voice "That's my girl."
The room was silent again. Emma crawled back onto the couch, curling in next to her mum. Giles looked at the odd but strangely beautiful little family. "I do believe it's your turn," he said, gesturing at the pair. "I see that you have news as well."
To be contd.