A Run from the Devil in the Pale Moonlight

by Little Green Lawn Gnome

Willow helps Spike grow up. Slightly AU. Lots of cute fluff!

3. I Am Folded and Unfolded and Unfolding

Part 2: I am Folded and Unfolded and Unfolding

Spike turns the lock and opens the door while Willow stands next to him.

"I can't believe how well they all took it."

He ushers the red head through the door placing a hand on the small of her back. She stops through at the bottom of the steps before going up to the apartment.

"Even Xander was ok with it."

Spike's hand gives her a small nudge, and Willow's feel start to move up.

"I think the watcher gave them advance notice, Little Owl."

"Oh."

"To save you any of the stress of their arguments-to protect you, Pet."

"Oh! So the fight was before we came?"

"I think so."

Her head appears through the hole in the floor that leads the stairs to the second floor. Eventually all of her appears, and she enters the apartment. Instead of going to her room, she plops down on the couch. Spike moves to the kitchen.

"Want anything, Red?"

"Some pickles. Oh and a little sour cream."

Spike just shakes his head at her off-handed answer.

"These walks are starting to get to me. Soon I'm gonna need a bus to cart me around. Maybe even a bulldozer once I get really pregnant."

Despite his best efforts, the blond vampire bursts out in pealing laugher. He almost drops the plate and two mugs in his hands. Willow merely scowls at him.

"Stop! It's not funny. I'm going to look like a house with legs and hair before this is over."

"You will not, Little Owl. My mother was your size and she carried twins fine."

"There were twins in your family?"

"My youngest sisters were twins."

"Oh, that's neat. Too bad I can't call your mom for advice."

He hands her the plate and a mug.

"Not unless you want to pay the long distance to the after life."

Willow giggles.

"Maybe, tomorrow. Speaking of long distance, I should call Angel and Cordy. I need to tell them the news. They need to know."

Spike scowls.

"Why do Peaches and the Cheerleader need to know?"

Willow leans over and smacks him upside the head.

"Because they're my friends. And you and Angel need to get along cuz he's going to want to be here to see the babies. Cordy, too. Whatever is between you let it go."

"Not that easy, Pet."

"But?"

"Leave it."

Willow closes her mouth then pouts. She stares at the floor eating her pickles ignoring the vampire sitting next to her. He sighs.

"Why don't you get your PJs on, and you can call the poof while I do your nails?"

"Ok."

Both get up, Spike draining the rest of his mug; Willow leaving her plate for later, and start off towards their rooms. A few minutes later, Willow returns clad in sweatpants and a tank top, Spike with a small box. Each takes one end of the couch facing each other. Spike reaches for her right had while handing her the phone. From beneath the couch, he pulls a board to set out his supplies on. Meticulously, he gets ready setting out each bottle or brush with exquisite care.

"I'm sure you know Peaches's number already."

She takes the phone, but pauses before dialing.

"Yes. Spike? I was thinking. I love the screen look n'all, but I think at least for the babies we need to make a closed off nursery. I wouldn't mind a more private space either."

Spike looks up from filing her nails. Hurriedly, Willow continues.

"If that's asking too much, forget I, well, asked."

Per usual a blush starts to warm Willow's features.

"Sure, Little Owl. I was planning on doing it soon anyway. I just wanted to get myself and you moved in first."

Willow grins then her face falls to confusion.

"Spike?"

"Hmm?"

"Why do you keep calling me 'Little Owl'?"

He shrugs his shoulders without breaking filing rhythm.

"Don't know. Just sounds right. Feels right."

"You like nicknames don't you?"

"I guess. Had threes sisters. It was fun to tease 'em-developed a habit."

A few minutes of silence pass.

"Do you want a nickname?"

"Have a few already."

"What?"

"None I can tell to virgin ears."

He gives a sly look up at her.

"Spike! I think recent developments have proved I am no longer a virgin!"

"Don't get you knickers in a twist, Little Owl. I was just kidding."

He moves to her left hand.

"Oh, I know! Sexy hands!"

Spike groans, loudly.

"No Pet. Spike's fine."

"I guess. Spike's a nickname really. William's your real name."

"Sure. Why don't you stop pestering me and call the poofter."

Willow giggles.

"Fine. Wittle Spikey is upset."

With her free hand she gives him a pat on the head, subsequently reaches for the phone she placed earlier on the floor.

"What colors, Red?"

"I dunno. Vampire's choice-you pick."

She dials the familiar number and waits for Cordy to pick up. As Spike starts to apply the acrylic powder to her right hand, a chipper voice picks up the other end.

"Angel Investigations, we help the hopeless."

"Hey Cordy!"

In LA, Cordelia Chase jumps up from her desk and starts to bounce on the balls of her feet.

"Hey, Willow! We thought you had forgotten about us. Where have you been?"

"Sorry, Cor. It got crazy the past few weeks. In fact the craziness is why I called. Angel around? I want to tell you both the surprise at the same time."

Cordelia walks as far as the phone cord will allow her and peers into her boss's office.

"He's not here, Willow. He's out after the latest flavor of the week. He should be back soon."

"Oh well, I should call back when Angel's there."

The blond vampire tenses again at the mention of his sire's name. Quickly, he looks down at Willow's middle finger and rushes to fix his mistake. If the nail turns out badly though, at least he can blame it on the poof.

"No, Willow! I can't wait. Tell me now."

Willow smiles; Cordelia can almost hear it through the phone.

"Alright, but you can't tell Angel. I want you to have him call me when he gets in. Remind me to give you the new number."

"New number? Come on now, Wills, you gotta dish."

"I'm living with Spike."

"Spike?! Nuetered vamp? Why are you living with bleach boy?"

At that moment Angel walks in the office and overhears the last statement. He guesses instantly at the topic of conversation.

"Who moved in with my childe?"

Cordelia mouths 'Willow'. Angel grabs for the phone, but his secretary moves before he can get it.

"My parents kicked me out."

Both Angel and Cordelia hear Willow's quiet statement. Simultaneously, they fall into chairs.

"Oh Willow, why did your parents kick you out? When did they? Are you alright? Do I need to send Angel to do a little ass-whooping?"

Willow looks over at Spike drawing strength form his warm eyes. He gently squeezes the hand he is holding.

"Last night. I told them I was."

"You're what, honey? What ever it is Angel and I will help. You don't need to rely on bleach boy."

"Cordelia, I'm pregnant with Oz's kids."

When she drops the phone, Angel snatches it before it can even hit the floor.

"Willow? What happened?"

"Angel? When did you get there?"

Spike and Willow look at each other. Willow gives Spike a puzzled look. Spike smirks back and returns to her left thumb.

"Just now. So you're pregnant?"

"Yes, Angel. My parents didn't like that and kicked me out of the house. Spike took me in. And before you say it, he is my friend. Everyone here accepts is so you have to accept it. And nothing more about that. I don't need the added stress."

As Angel stands shocked, Cordelia wakes out of her stupor and seizes back the phone.

"Kids? As in plural?"

"Uh huh, twins. Two little babies."

"Oh, Willow, that's great. It is great right?"

"Yeah Cordy. It's good or it will be once I get over the oh-my-god-I'm- having-twins-at-nineteen-shock thing. Everyone here's being great, especially Spike. So I'm gonna tell you what I told Angel. Not a word about him or my living with him. He's my friend, and I don't need the extra stress."

Willow smiles at Spike. He starts to shake the maroon red bottle of polish. In LA, Cordelia smiles as she envisions Willow's patented resolve face fall into place.

"My lips are sealed. I'll try and control the broody one for you, too."

Angel frowns then moves to his office to get on the extension.

"Willow, the big brother in me demands I at least ask one thing before I let it drop."

"What, Angel?"

"Angel, leave her alone or I'm quitting."

He rolls his eyes and ignores his employee.

"Do you trust him?"

Spike looks up when he hears the question. Willow looks strait into his eyes when she replies.

"Completely."

Spike grins like a maniac while returning to her right hand to finish it.

"Then I guess that has to be good enough for me."

"Good. Now that he's done being an ass. What can we do? I know some great boutiques where we can get you some totally hot, not fat-woman clothes."

The time Spike reacts and grabs the phone from Willow.

"Cheerleader, shut your trap. If anyone's fat it's not my Red. No need to implant ideas in her head."

Willow lunges for the phone and gets it before Spike can continue.

"Sorry, Cordy. He's a little protective."

Cordelia just smirks at Angel through his office window and winks. Angel looks ready to kill, barely restraining his alter ego.

"S'ok, Wills. Angel might stake him now, though."

Willow can hear giggling from Cordelia and suppressed growl from Angel.

"Willow, are you sure about him?"

"Yes, Angel."

"Come on, Angel. Now, Willow tell me everything."

"There's not much to tell yet. I just found out a few days ago. I go to the doctor again later next week."

Disappointed, Cordelia's face falls. Angel gets an idea-one that will satisfy both their curiosities.

"Willow, can we come visit?"

"Oh my god! Yes, Willow! It would be so great!"

"I would love it. But it's up to Spike. It is his apartment."

Spike looks up form the black tips he is applying to her red nails to her expectant face. He can't deny her anything even if it means having to deal with his sire for a weekend. Curtly, he nods.

"Yes, it's alright with him. Why don't you come this weekend?"

"That's great! We gotta go now, though. A client just walked in. I'll call later about details."

Willow gives her the new number, and each girl hangs up. Spike starts to add the top coat when she places the phone down.

"Thank you so much, Spike."

"Only would do it for you. Now though, you owe me not only corrupting rights but naming rights to your first born, Little Owl."

He finishes then looks up with a bright grin on his face. She returns in same.

"You know Spike."

"Don't ever say it."

Releasing her hands, he starts to put everything away. To stem any further conversation, he gets up and goes to his room.

"Well.someone's cranky."

Willow suddenly drained gets up puts her dishes in the sink then moves to her own room.

"Night, Spike."

She calls it out to the open air of the apartment but receives no answer. She crawls into bed and turns out the light strangely upset. Right before sleep takes her, she hears the gentle rustle denim encased legs around her screens.

"Night, Little Owl."

Feeling better, she allows the warm glow in her heart to usher in a sweet sleep.

})i({

"Oy, Pet, there's a letter for you."

Willow takes the proffered letter from Spike's out stretched hand. She recognizes the return address right away and falls into a chair. Noticing her reaction, Spike rushes to her side. Shaking hands tear open the envelope while nervous eyes look on. Spike waits until she read it before speaking.

"It's a letter from my dad. He apologizes for my mother's behavior. He wants me to come home-but I can't cuz of Mom. So he's put together a bank account for me with a monthly allowance. He says.he says he loves me no matter what. He asks that I forgive him for his cowardice and that he still wants to be a part of my life."

Finishing, Willow breaks down in tears and falls into Spike' lap. He accepts her willingly with open arms.

"He wants to take me to lunch to talk."

She looks strait into blue eyes.

"He still loves me. I thought they hated me."

"Yeah, he does, Little Owl. And you should go meet him-talk to him."

She nods absently. The wheels begin to turn in her head as the implications and possibilities start to focus out of the fog that is her life.

"Spike do you know what this means?"

"Your father's head is screwed on strait for all it being up your mum's ass?"

"No! I have financing. I can help with rent and save for college educations! We don't have to shop at garage sales! I can raise them normally without worrying when you'll kick us out!"

Spike grabs the frantically waving hands.

"Wait a second, Red. You don't have to pay rent, and I'll never kick you out. You would never have had to worry about anything. You still don't."

Willow bursts into tears again.

"Thank you so much, Spike. What would I do without you?"

"Probably be living in Chub's basement."

Willow wipes her eyes and chuckles.

"Maybe. Despite what anyone says you have your moments of extraordinary."

"Only for you, Little Owl, only for you."

})i({

"Joseph?"

"No."

"Christopher?"

"No."

"Logan?"

"Goddess, no!"

"What's wrong with Logan?"

"Spike, I am not naming one of my children after an X-Men no matter how cool you think he is. Remember, we're going for old and meaningful. Like Gaelic; Gaelic names are good."

"Why don't you ask the wanker then?"

"Why don't you pout some more, and I will."

She reaches over and flicks his ear. Spike flinches.

"Shouldn't do that when someone's trying to drive over here, Red."

He reaches up to rub his ear.

"Then don't try to name my boys after your fantasies."

"How do you know you're having boys?"

"I know."

He looks over-disbelief blatantly written all over his face.

"I know! I've been living with these little guys for a while now. They're boys."

"Guess I'll just have to trust you then, Little Owl."

"Guess so."

She sticks her tongue out as he turns into a parking lot.

"Here we go, Luv."

Willow looks through the window up at the ominous office building in front of her made even scarier by the dark cast of twilight. Spike picks up her increased heart rate and slips a hand into hers.

"Just the doctor's, Little Owl. There's nothing there to be afraid of."

Large, disbelieving green eyes bore into his warm blue.

"Come with me?"

"Luv, it's just a doctor. You were here a few days ago."

"Well, technically, I was at another office. Not here."

Spike twitches a scarred eyebrow.

"Pwease, Spikey?"

She drops her bottom lip and widens her eyes. Spike takes the keys out of the ignition and moves to get out of the car. Knowingly, Willow waits in her seat. Seconds later, Spike opens the car door and pulls her out.

"This puppy dog face is a dangerous tool, Little Owl. I don't think you should use it lightly."

"So says the master of pouting."

She winks at him. With a hand on the small of her back, he leads her through the door and up to the office on the second floor.

"Roger?"

"Ugh."

"Caleb?"

"Ooo. I like that one! Write it down!"

Spike pulls out a notepad and pen out of one of his many duster pockets and writes down the name. They reach the door just as he puts it away. Again he steers her through with a carefully placed hand. Willow goes over and signs in. She returns to where Spike is sitting with a clipboard of paperwork. She digs in as Spike looks around.

"Richard?"

"No. I'm not having an English king."

He looks over to her puzzled face at her off-handed remark.

"Cor, I remember when going to a doctor meant a house call and direct payment. No messy forms in the good days."

"You mean the dark days."

Willow responds without looking up so she misses Spike's tongue sticking out.

"Well now a day, we have this little thing called insurance and accurate medical records-no more bleeding people."

Again she misses his childish gesture.

"What was your father's name?"

Spike looks up from the pregnancy magazine in his lap.

"William."

"Oh, so you really are a junior."

"Yes, Pet."

They sit in silence.

"Sean?"

"Write it down."

He adds it to the list.

"Scott?"

"No."

"August?"

"No."

"Homer?"

"Hell, no! Where do you come up with some of these?"

Spike shrugs.

"Tyler?"

"Write it down."

"See, Pet, I come up with some good ones."

"Willow?"

A nurse peeks her head out of a door to retrieve Willow.

"No, Spike. Boys' names remember? And you typically don't have female juniors."

He taps her shoulder and points to the smiling nurse.

"It's your turn, Little Owl."

Willow looks up from the insurance forms. Her customary blush appears to flush her cheeks.

"Oh."

She grabs her stuff and moves to follow the nurse.

"Your.your.the father can come as well."

The nurse motions towards Spike sitting in the plastic chair. He looks up when he hears the nurse waiting for Willow's response. The mother-to-be looks at him. Spike shrugs.

"He's not."

"Hey, Little Owl, I wanna see the lil'uns, too."

Willow sighs and winks at him. Spike smiles at her and slips his hand in hers. Mouthing 'thank you', Willow tightens her hand and follows the nurse back to he examination rooms.

"We need to take your weight and blood pressure. Then the doctor will be in to do the general exam and a sonogram. Then we'll need to discuss things you need to be doing at home to stay healthy."

Willow nods and completes the initial testing. She and Spike then go to the exam room to wait for her doctor.

"Thanks again, Spike."

"Only for you, Little One."

"You really don't have to wait her, though. I'll be fine with the doctor by myself."

Spike looks poignantly at her nervous hands and shifting feet.

"S'alight. I'll stay here and play daddy for a little while-see what it feels like. I know you don't like doctors, Luv."

"Ok."

Trying to kill time, Willow starts to look around the room.

"You know, Pet. We need to go shopping for you-clothes for me, baby clothes, baby things."

"I guess so; I can't wear sweat pants forever can I?"

"No."

"Guess we need to start another list. Oh, and Buffy'll wanna come, too."

Spike groans.

"We can work that all out later when we get home while you're doing my nails."

Willow grabs his hand to inspect his nails.

"We never did get to that did we?"

"No, Pet. You just let me do yours and invite the wanker into my home and be done with it."

"Well, if it makes you feel better, I really like my nails."

Willow gives him an impish grin.

"Maybe, a little, Luv."

She laughs at his pitiful expression.

"Whatever, Spike."

Just then a tall woman with glasses walks in. Spike stands up on the pretense of shaking her hand while really trying to inspect her.

"Hello, Mr. Rosenberg; Mrs. Rosenberg."

"Oh, no."

"No."

Spike and Willow rush to correct her mistake.

"It's just miss. I'm not married. Spike here is my.he's, well."

"I'm her boyfriend, Luv."

A sad smile pulls at Willow's lips. The doctor looks down at them over her glasses trying to hide the small shake of her head and her disapproval. Just another teen pregnancy where the guy was ready to bolt all because the couple wasn't cautious.

"Oh, I apologize."

The doctor introduces herself and goes about with the general exam then preps Willow for her sonogram. Despite being almost half naked, Willow still feels completely comfortably; more so because Spike is there and she is not alone with a strange person. The doctor lathers Willow's stomach with the jelly and flips on the machine. She points to the other side of the bed near Willow's head.

"You can stand there to see the monitor."

Soon enough black and white blobs appear on the small screen. The doctor points out two sets heads, hands, and legs. Tears form in Willow's eyes and threaten to spill over. Spike seeing this takes her hand and squeezes.

"You're babies look very healthy. Would you like to know the sex?"

Willow looks up from her boys to the doctor.

"Two little boys, right?"

"Yes, how did you know?"

A small smile takes over her lips.

"I just know."

The doctor smiles back.

"Give me a moment, and you'll have a picture to take home with you."

She walks out of the room.

"Look at my little boys, Spike."

"They're beautiful, Pet. You're going to have two strong lads there."

The tears finally spill over, and Spike's thumb moves over to wipe them away. Both continue to stare in awe at the shapes on the monitor. Picture in hand, Willow's doctor walks back in and stops short. She begins to re- evaluate her first impression of the couple. Looking at their children, they seem very happy and very much in love. The tough guy attitude melts from the man. They might just be good parents instead of the teenage buffoons she sees all too often. "Here, Willow, is a picture for you to share with your family and friends. We'll get you cleaned up, and we'll talk about your continuing health needs then you can go."

Sometime later, Willow and Spike return to the car loaded with literature and one very special picture.

"I think it's time we have a baby research party."

"So long as I don't have to be there."

Willow, even with her arms loaded, smacks him.

"Didn't I tell you to leave a bloke alone while driving? I hate reading- never had the patience for it. Plus, I was around for three sisters. I know this stuff."

"You were like what? Five for most of their baby lives? Just brush up for me? Or no baby-sitting. I'll get Xander to do it!"

He gasps.

"You wound me! Fine, Little Owl."

Willow opens one of the books in her lap and begins to read.

"Pet?"

"Hmm?"

"How do you still have insurance?"

"Part of Dad's care package."

"Oh. How did that go?"

"Well, he wants me to call him and keep in touch so he can be part of his grandchildren's lives. He wants to make up for Mom's bad behavior."

"You alright with that?"

"Yeah, everyone deserves a second chance."

Willow returns to reading; Spike keeps driving.

"You know if you ever needed anything, I would have."

"I know, Spike."

She smiles and leans against him as he drives them home.

})i({

Picking up a blanket off the floor, Willow folds it then replaces it on the back of the couch. Spike walks out of his newly walled room simultaneously pulling on a sweater. A gentle smile graces his lips when he sees a now showing Willow cleaning up.

"Stop fidgeting, Little Owl. The place looks fine."

She gives him a petulant look and continues straitening the apartment.

"I just want it to be perfect. Considering it's been four weeks they've been trying to come. If I didn't know better, I'd guess they didn't want to come."

"Well next time, ask the forces of evil to take a weekend off."

Willow snorts.

"Sure and, maybe next time it won't take them a month to finally get here."

Spike standing in the kitchen shakes his head then moves over to Willow. He takes the books out of her hands, sets them down, and sits her down on the couch. Slipping in behind her, he begins to rub her back. While leaning into his magic hands, she sighs.

"You remember to tell everyone, Pet?"

"Yup. I don't think they believe me though because they've canceled so many times." Willow can feel Spike's chuckle through her back.

"Xander's still not too happy about it. Buffy briefed Riley, finally-told him everything, and they're both dealing ok."

"They'd do anything for you, Little Owl."

Red creeps up Willow's neck into her cheeks turning her face into a cherry with red hair. Spike leans closer to where his mouth hangs about her ear.

"I'll even deal with Peaches for you."

She turns to face him inches now from his face.

"Thanks, Spike. It means a lot to me."

He taps her on the nose.

"The only reason I do it. And you need to stop thanking me. It makes a demon blush." "Vampires can't blush, Spike."

She smiles and turns back around, while Spike's hands continue to work a difficult knot out of her back. After a few minutes of peaceful silence, the doorbell resounds throughout the apartment. Instantly, Spike is up and over the back of the couch and heads down the stairs to the front door. As Willow pulls herself out of the couch, Angel and Cordelia appear up the stairs and out of the hole in the floor.

"Willow! You've gotten so big!"

Cordelia rushes to engulf the red head in her arms.

"Cordy! Leave her alone; she's pregnant."

Releasing her friend, Cordelia shrugs and hands her off to Angel who gives her an equally big hug.

"Yeah, Cheerleader. You stay here you've got to be nice."

Willow scowls at Spike.

"You look wonderful, Willow."

"Thanks, Angel."

"I meant that, too."

"I know, Cordy."

If possible, Willow's smile gets wider. She invites them all to sit down. Angel and Cordelia take the couch while Willow establishes herself in a love seat. Before Spike can sit down, Willow grabs his hand.

"Will you get me some orange juice?"

She looks to her guests.

"You guys want anything?"

Both shake their heads while Spike walks to the kitchen. Everyone is talking comfortably when he returns and hands Willow her glass. After taking a quick sip, she places it on the side table. Spike once Willow puts her glass down taps her on the shoulder and motions with his head for her to move forward. She takes the hint and scoots forward in the chair. Jumping up and over the chair, he settles in behind her to recommence his earlier back rub. Angel and Cordy watch with interest. Catching her boss' eye, Cordelia winks and mouths 'interesting'.

"How was the drive-up?"

"Fine. I wouldn't let Cordelia drive so we got here in one piece."

"Hey!"

She lands a vicious smack on Angel's arm. Spike snickers.

"Well, Cordy. You do drive."

"Just leave it there, Willow. She might not be as forgiving as you just were over the 'big' exclamation."

Cordelia has the decency to at least look contrite.

"I'm just glad you finally got here."

"Red, here, was worried you were avoiding us. Thinking you couldn't handle seeing your dear boy again."

"Spike."

"Spike!"

Willow elbows him in the stomach while Angel growls out his name.

"Ok. Considering it's way late, I've been cramped in the car for three hours, and I need beauty sleep why don't we adjourn this lovely reunion."

Willow whispers thank you to Cordy for her wonderfully timed request. Angel and Spike look ready to go at it.

"Sure, Cordy, you are in my room. Angel you can have the floor in there or the couch out here."

"Couch is fine, Willow. Just point me to the blankets."

With Spike's help, Willow gets up followed by Cordelia to get everyone settled in. Half and hour later, Cordelia is happily nestled in Willow's bed; Willow is just turning off Spike's light; and Angel is reading in the family room winding down for the day. He can hear Spike cleaning up in the kitchen.

"Window's are sun-proofed, and the girls'll be quiet in the morning Willow assured me." Angel nods. He turns back to his book waiting for Spike to start to ready his own couch for bed. A few seconds later when Spike doesn't appear near the other couch, Angel looks up to see the last bit of blond hair disappear into his own room. Angel growls fiercely.

Once in his won room, Spike starts to unfurl a bedroll.

"Spike?"

"Yea, Little Owl?"

"Thanks again for putting up with them."

"Only for you."

Silence again descends as he strips down and puts on pajama pants. Climbing into his makeshift bed, he hears Willow again.

"Spike?"

"What, Pet?"

"Do you ever miss it?"

"Miss what?"

"Holding, being held. I think, especially now, that's what I miss the most. Someone to comfort me in the deep parts of the night. I wouldn't take Oz back now even if he does come back, but still I miss it."

He can hear the beginnings of tears but won't go to her in bed until she asks. He's unsure still to her comfort levels sometimes.

"Yeah, I do sometimes. I get lonely at night."

"When I was little and imagined being pregnant there was always this strong guy right behind me. Someone to dote and get me food and hold me when I get emotional and help me explore being pregnant. Someone to pick out names and watch light up when he feels the babies kick. I'm still so alone aren't I?"

"No, Little Owl. Maybe in some ways but not completely."

The air hangs heavily as the silence draws out.

"Spike?"

"Hmm?"

"Hold me?"

The whisper, soft and hesitant, is barely over before Spike slips in behind her to spoon around her. His arms go around her belly, softly stroking the slightly swollen area. She reaches down to clasp his hands.

"Thank you for everything, Spike."

"Only for you. Always and forever, Little Owl."

Her breathing slows down, and she drifts off to the comfort of sleep. Spike watches her-his heart restful and full. Things for him are starting to finally feel right; he starts to understand what his father was trying to tell him all those years ago.

})i({

Later that night, Willow wakes up hours later to an aching back and sick tummy. She climbs out of Spike's arms and the bed to pull on her robe a go to the living room. Settling down in a chair by a window she startles when Angel speaks up.

"I don't think Spike should be sleeping in your room. He should be out here with me." Holding a hand to her chest, Willow responds irritably.

"God, Angel, don't scare a pregnant lady like that. And mind your own business with Spike. He's my friend, and this is his home. He can sleep wherever he wants."

"I may be forced to pretend to like the fact that you're living with him, but I will not pretend to like the sleep arrangements. Willow, he's a soulless killer."

The fierce protection Willow heard in his voice was the only thing keeping her from throttling the irate vampire.

"You're not the only one who can change, Angel. Stop believing everything you've done is a mistake or a disaster. Spike is not a mistake. Spike is not a disaster. Get to know him again and you might be proud of the vampire he has matured to be. He's not the blood-thirsty animal you once roamed Europe with. He still needs your help even. He needs the presence and acceptance of his sire, as a father. He is just one of the many good things you have done." Angel shifts uncomfortably under the power of the witch's words.

"He didn't start out that way."

"No, but neither do you. You both just needed a kick in the pants-something more than yourselves-to grow up and become something. Yours was a soul; his was a chip."

"And obviously you."

A deep blush crawls across her face from her neck.

"Maybe. Please, talk to him before you condemn him."

"Fine."

He curtly nods then pulls her in for a tight hug.

"I just don't want to see you hurt, Willow."

"Neither does Spike. Start on that common ground, and you might find something new growing."

Angel acquiesces to the power of her coercion then sends her back to bed so he can do what he does best, brood.

})i({

Buffy glances over at Willow sitting at a table while she and Cordelia stand in line for food. The mall food court is bustling and noisy around them on the Saturday afternoon. So loud in fact, Buffy almost misses Cordelia's question.

"So how long have they been in love?"

"Long enough for it to be obvious to even Xander."

"Wow."

Stunned shock plays on the brunette's face.

"Let me guess though, they're playing the 'I'm-not-good-enough-for-her-cuz- I'm-a blood-sucking-demon' and 'I'm-pregnant-with-twins-who-would-ever-want- me?' game?"

"Exactly. They're blind and too worried about rejection to see what's in front of them."

"Why don't you give it a little push?"

Buffy shrugs.

"Anya and Giles seem to think it'll work itself out. Xander may be friends with Spike now but that doesn't mean he's going to ok his best friend dating him. I just want her happy, but I'm not going to play games with people's emotions."

"Xander and Spike are friends?"

Almost everyone in the mall can hear Cordelia's shout.

"Yup. Something about video games and mortal combat like one hundred million and two or something."

"Wow."

"The amazing power of one red head is all I have to say."

Both girls turn to look and aforementioned red head sitting going through her purchases and looking ready to eat the next person who walks by.

"You can say that again. Spike let us stay at the apartment. Angel came back here to see her-the one place I never though he'd return."

Cordelia smacks her head.

"I'm sorry, Buffy."

"It's ok. I'm dealing. He did what I couldn't. I see that now. Plus, I have Riley; he makes me happy."

"That's good."

"Willow is amazing though. You just apologized to me. I'm sure that can be traced back to her somehow. Anya has even been acting human lately."

"No!"

"Uh, huh. Our Wills is a miracle worker."

They continue to stand in line staring at their friend.

"We should have a shower for her."

"Anya and I were thinking the same thing-do a little something for her."

Cordelia nods. They order and take their food back to the table.

"Took you guys long enough. I'm starving. I had to think up blond, brunette, and red head jokes just to keep myself from jumping someone for food."

Buffy almost drops Willow's tray laughing.

"Blond jokes, Willow?"

"Well, while you guys were standing in line for an eternity, I noticed that the three of us fit that scenario and since everyone is always laughing at me I thought maybe I'd try to be funny."

She grins at the other two then grins even wider when she sees her sweet and sour chicken and hamburger.

"Wills, you never cease to amaze."

"I know. I guess the class I took on it really paid off."

Cordelia and Buffy alike spray food while trying to hold in laughter.

"See I really am funny!"

"Whatever, Wills."

Grinning widely, they finish their lunch to continue shopping.

})i({

Rubbing his eyes, Spike walks out of his room and stumbles into the kitchen.

"Morning, sleepy head."

"Peaches."

Spike growls and pulls out a bag of blood ignoring his sire.

"Have a nice sleep, Spike?"

"Yeah, mate, I did."

At his insolence, Angel grabs him and throws him up against a wall.

"What were you doing with Willow last night?"

Spike tries to throw Angel off; he is unsuccessful.

"None of your business."

Angel growls. Spike makes a decision.

"Just held her. She's emotional right now, and the pup's leaving is weighing heavily on her. She just needed a friend."

"And you were just the *friend* to help her weren't you?"

Spike sighs.

"She needed me, she asked me, so I helped. I'm just trying to be her friend, Peaches."

Angel looks deep into Spike's eyes taking in the disappointment and hope.

"You're in love with her."

This time Spike does manage to throw Angel off.

"No."

"You are. You weren't even like this about Dru. You really care about her. When did you change, Spike?"

Spike sighs in resignation. He can't get around his sire anymore. He has to confront this. "Don't know really. Maybe about the time she walked into the bathroom where they had me chained and dumped a mug of blood on me."

Both vampires fall silent. Angel continues to look at his childe. He begins to catalog all the changes he can make out in him. Standing before him is not the same man he changed nor the same vampire he left all those years ago then walked back in on in a factory with Drusilla.

"How? Who are you now?"

"Have you met Willow? The same girl who gave you back your soul. The same forgiving spirit who then forgave your arse after you tormented her for months. And you ask me how?"

Spike had no idea why he was finally confiding in his sire-all he knew is that it felt good, like talking to your father after a hard day.

"Who knows who I am now? I just know that I'd do anything for that girl. She makes me want to be something more than myself; to live up to whatever potential I have; like I couldn't dare to disappoint her."

Angel nods.

"She is amazing. So why don't you tell her?"

"Leave it, Peaches. I've put all your fears to rest I'm sure. Just go back to your poofy detective agency and leave us alone."

"Can't. Won't. She's my friend, too. You're my childe. Despite what you think I never stopped caring."

Spike snorts. Angel makes a decision.

"I messed up, Spike. I never should have left. But I was thrown for a loop. I didn't know what to do."

"Yeah, shit happens. It happened to me. Don't see me running away."

"Maybe I'm not as strong as you are."

There it was-an olive branch, strong and new, extended from sire to childe, from father to son. Everything that was and everything that could be were tied up in those seven words and one contraction. Spike just had to take it. He could complete the circle started over a century ago with his father. He could reaccept his sire and have the presence he so desperately needs in his life. Or he could rebuff it with a few carefully chosen words and lose it all-lose everything he had built in the past few months.

"You could have been if you had stayed. We would have helped."

Angel lets out a held breath for all his not needing to breathe.

"If we could only do it over again."

"Sure, Peaches, a lot."

Each vampire smiles at the other.

"You still need to tell her though. I'd wager my soul that she feels the same."

"I said leave it."

"No, fuck the 'she deserves, I deserve, I'm a monster' crap. Life, unlife, is too short, Spike. No one will think any better for what you give up. Life is about the joy you find and who you can make happy along with it. If you've found it then take it. Don't ever let it get away-some of us don't have the luxury you have.

Spike looks up.

"What?"

"Loving completely, fully, all-consuming and being loved the same in return. Maybe it's not that far yet, but it could be. Some people will never find that love. Some of us will find it without ever actualizing it. Don't give her up because you were too scared to be the man you've grown to be. All the pain, all the glory isn't worth it if you're not willing to give up everything you are for it then rebuild yourself in its wake. Don't give up happiness just because you don't believe you deserve it. We all deserve it even down to asses like you. Love is a gift; Willow's love is a rare gift at that. Take what you've been given and cherish it. Cherish her. Don't let her go, William."

Spike is for once in his very long existence is lost for words. Silence hands heavily between them.

"You think it could be all of that."

"I've been here for less than twenty four hours, and as much as I hate to admit it, I think it could be more than that."

"Or maybe you're just trying to be your meddling wanker self."

"No, Spike, I just want you to be happy. Willow makes you happy. Forget what being a vampire is supposed to be about. Forget what being a man is supposed to be about. Build a new life in the glow of her light and on the foundation of what your heart tells you. You always had a beautiful heart; it's why I changed you. You have possibility. You just need to stop running from it."

Spike smiles wistfully.

"My father told me something like that once. Dru, too."

Before Angel can respond, Xander's voice floats up the stairs and the moment is gone-broken for the time being. Old wounds are salved though, and the chasm between sire and childe is no longer too far.

"Hey Junior! You ready to get your ass whooped?"

"Not bloody likely, Chubs."

Xander's head appears out of the hole in the floor. He has a goofy grin on his face that immediately falls when he spies Angel.

"So Deadboy finally made it; didn't think he was actually going to come as many times as they cancelled. Which means Wills must be out shopping with Cordy? Never thought I'd live to see that day."

"Me neither, Chubs."

Angel sits and gawks as Xander grabs a water bottle from the fridge, and Spike starts to set up the PS2 system. The brunette settles down next to Spike and takes up his controller. "We got busy. We needed to be in LA."

"Shut up, Peahes, you're ruining my concentration."

Angel can't help but continue to stare openly at the two figures on the floor amiably playing video games.

"When did this happen."

"What?"

Spike responds without looking up from his figure on the screen.

"You two, getting along."

"Wills had me over one night."

"I was beating the pants off of her."

"She wanted my help."

"The moron and I started playing."

Xander looks up to finish once he loses his last life.

"It grew into a beautiful friendship."

Mockingly, Xander reaches over to ruffle Spike's hair knowing the result. Spike violently flinches and attempts to punch the teen before he is thrown back in agony by the chip.

"Bloody pillock. Don't touch the hair!"

"Whipped puppy."

"Sod off."

"Fangless wonder."

Before Spike can get another retort in, Angel speaks up.

"So let me get this strait, Willow wanted help with video games. Xander came over. You two started playing and became friends."

"Yup, it's a testimony to my pal's power to bring people together."

"I think you are just so much a loser that you didn't have anyone else to play with."

Vampire and teen glare menacingly at each other. They spend the rest of the afternoon squabbling like siblings while trying to out do each other as video games. Angel sits back watching and smiling, content. Only Willow could make those two friends. Only Willow could have changed Spike. For once in his long existence, Angel feels like everything just might turn out alright.

})i({

Willow sets the last plate down on the table and looks up to her closed bedroom door. She smiles and sighs. Spike comes up behind her.

"Angel and Buffy still going at it, Little Owl?"

Willow hits him.

"There is no 'going at it.' They're just talking."

Spike winks and raises a scarred eyebrow.

"Sure, they've been in there since you girls got back and all that's going on is talking."

Willow frowns then walks over to her door. Before knocking she listens for a moment but can only hear quiet voices without being able to make out actual words. She eventually gives up eavesdropping and knocks.

"Angel, Buffy, dinner's ready. We're all ready to sit down."

Laughing, the couple emerges from emerges. Buffy mouths 'I'll fill you in later.' Happy now that she'll get the full scoop, Willow smiles and follows them to the table where everyone is sitting.

After dinner while washing the dishes, Willow's curiosity gets the better of her.

"So.you and Angel in my room for two hours."

"So?"

Willow tries to towel snap Buffy's leg.

"Alright, alright. We just talked. I know that sounds lame. But we caught up on what the other was doing. I mean at first was awkward, but then it was just."

"Nice?"

"Yeah, nice. It still hurts but not so much anymore. We also talked about you."

Willow tuts at the blonde's coy smile.

"What could you two possibly have said about me?"

"Well, Angel seems pretty excited about the babies. He wants to help anyway he can. He was going on about visiting here and then when the boys are older taking them to LA. It was weird to see him so giddy about it."

The red head giggles.

"These little guys seem to inspire that."

"That they do, Wills. He also seems to think that your roommate is pretty head over heals for you."

Buffy looks over to gauge her best friends reaction. Willow's mouth falls open, and she starts to babble incoherently.

"Spike? Me? Like.head over heals.me? Spike?"

"Willow, deep breaths. I don't completely disagree with him."

"Buffy, no. There's just no way. He would never reciprocate."

"Ha! I knew it. So this isn't a disgusted babble-it's a no-way-in-hell-cuz- I'm-just-little-old-me babble."

Willow's puts on her resolve face.

"Enough, Buffy. No more joking. Just leave it alone. I don't want to talk about it. Oz left. I'm not going through that again. He's a good friend. I'm not going to much that up."

Buffy sighs.

"Fine, just look at him sometime. Watch how he watches you."

"Buffy! Drop it!"

Willow adds a smack for punctuation. Buffy goes back to washing the pots and pans deciding to bring it up another time.

})i({

Willow, craving a midnight snack of peanut butter, honey, and banana sandwiches, crawls out of Spike's arms and exits her room. Before she can reach the kitchen however, Angel's voice interrupts her. Forgetting he was there, she jumps almost to the ceiling for the second time in as many nights.

"Angel! Don't do that to a pregnant woman. I thought we already went over this. I need to keep my heart from dying!"

Sheepishly, Angel apologizes.

"Sorry, Willow. I didn't mean to frighten you. I forget how quite I am sometimes. Why are you still up? It's late. Good little mothers-to-be should be in bed with their vampires."

Willow glares.

"I was hungry. And Spike isn't my vampire. He's a friend."

"Mmhmm."

Angel is thoroughly unconvinced so he follows her to the kitchen. After preparing her three sandwich snack, Willow joins the smirking vampire at the table.

"So friends sleep with friends now?"

"Sometimes. It is just sleeping anyway. No innuendo there. Nope. Nuh, uh."

"It would be ok if there was innuendo, Willow."

The red head spits a banana across the room, barely missing Angel's gelled hair. "Good shot. Too bad you didn't get my hair though, Spike might have had a holiday."

Willow smiles.

"Seriously though, Willow, I talked to him today. He's changed. You changed him. He's good for you. He'll be good for your sons."

Willow almost chokes, again.

"What? Who are you, and what have you done with our Angel? Where is the Angel I talked to last night?"

A deep rumbling chuckle emanates from the brunette seated across from her.

"I'm your Angel, maybe a little more mature than when you last saw me. Seems everyone has done some growing up since graduation. Not to mention our talk earlier."

"I guess we did. Never thought you'd listen for once, though."

"Sometimes, even I can surprise people. But even Spike has changed, Willow. He's not the same vampire I once knew."

"No, he's not. But I never expected you to be ok with that or even see that. I thought I would have to spend hours more in deep conversation just convincing you to stay with us, let alone let him take care of me."

"I've learned to watch a little better now, Willow. After Buffy, I try to think things through first."

Willow giggles.

"You guys did tend to do the wacky around each other."

Angel nods.

"Are you two ok now?"

Willow looks up hesitantly from her last sandwich, unsure as to how Angel will take her last question.

"Yes, I think we finally are. It will always hurt. She will always have a place in my heart, but we both realize that this is for the best-that we can both be better and do better apart."

"Vampires and humans are just doomed I guess."

"No, Willow. Vampires and a slayer are doomed. You and Spike could work out."

He holds up a hand to hush her protests.

"I know you're not ready to hear it yet. But he cares deeply for you and your children. Be at least open to possibilities."

Angel stands and leans over to give Willow a chaste kiss on the cheek. Returning to his couch, he leaves Willow in deep contemplation, finishing her last sandwich of peanut butter, banana, and honey. Spike wakes up a little later bereft of her and finds her there still thinking and brings her back to bed. This time Angel watches with a soft smile gracing his lips as Spike disappears into Willow's room.

})i({

The group of four stands in Spike's garage as Cordy and Angel prepare to leave.

"Be careful driving, Cordy. Angel just might get over his aversion to sun if you don't."

Cordelia shakes her head as he hugs the giggling red head. Next she moves to Spike and gives him a quick squeeze while whispering in his ear.

"Thanks and don't let her go."

Too shocked to respond, Spike just squeezes back. The vampires stare at each other for a moment the join in a fierce hug.

"Take care, Sire."

"Be good, Childe. And remember to tell her."

Lastly, Angel approaches Willow. He motions to Cordy to get something out of the back seat. True to form, he enfolds her in a big, brotherly hug.

"I have one last thing for you, Willow."

Just then a large Irish wolfhound puppy bounds out of the back seat of his car.

"He's here to take care of you when I can't. Also, to keep an eye on Spike."

Spike growls; Willow beams.

"Thank you, Angel. He's adorable."

"Your welcome."

"Come back soon."

Cordy and Angel synchronized look at Spike.

"Sure, the Cheerleader and the Poof can come back anytime. It at least keeps things interesting."

Another round of quick hugs is given then the LA couple is off into the afternoon sun leaving a small family behind. Spike with his arm around the now-showing Willow and their new dog at her feet look the picture of the happy family waving off a recent visit. Willow realizes as she sees the picture they make how right it all could feel.

})i({

"Why Ty, Little Owl?"

"Ty is short for Tyler."

Spike makes a motion with his hands for her to go on.

"Tyler Dirden."

"You want your dog to be the anarchist murdering multiple personality of an insomniac?"

"No!"

Willow throws her hands up in exacerbation.

"Ty for Tyler because Tyler Dirden is the best name in the first movie we ever watched together. You know, that movie night a long time ago."

The vampire's mouth falls open in a very unbecoming manner. He had no idea.

"That's fun, Pet. Ty it is then."

"Yup, Ty it is. In honor of us."

Spike sighs. He really didn't want acknowledge the moment right now. Doing that would be admitting the poof was right.

})i({

White blond hair appears out of the hole in the floor. Walking out of the kitchen, Willow notices her roommate arriving home. She looks down at the dog at her feet as if to ask 'Why didn't you warn me?' Ty has an amazing penchant for telling friend from foe and protecting those friends' secrets and tricks.

"Hey, Spike."

"'ello, Red. I've got something for you."

"OO! What?!"

She starts to bounce on her toes. Ty does as well trying to get Willow the attention she wants. Spike pulls something out from behind her back. The excitement turns to confusion on her face.

"A chalkboard? Why do I need a chalkboard?"

Spike shakes his head and with out stretched hands raises his eyes to heaven.

"Names, Luv. It's for the baby names. We can put it up in the kitchen and keep track of potential baby names instead of using random pieces of paper in my pockets."

Willow squeals and runs to hug Spike. Barking loudly, Ty adds his enthusiasm. Easily, Spike's hands go around Willow holding her tightly to him.

"Thank you. It's great!"

Pulling back, Willow graces him with a sunshine smile. He can't help but mirror her mirth.

"One more thing, Red."

He hands her a clumsily wrapped package. Willow reverently pulls off each piece of tape to reveal a hand-crafted stained-glass picture frame.

"For the sonogram picture."

Willow turns the frame over several times in her hands. Tears start to wet her eyes despite her bright smile.

"Oh, Spike. It's wonderful. Thank you."

He wipes away the single tear that falls down her cheek.

"Only for you, Little Owl. I saw it and thought it would be perfect for the little brats' first picture."

"You're right. It is perfect."

She gives him another hug and this time can't seem to let go. Maybe Buffy and Angel were right. Maybe she and her vampire could work. The possibility seemed sweeter and sweeter everyday.

})i({

"Xander, take the bags!"

The brunette shakes his head and continues to stand with his arms crossed. Willow laughs and pushes her shopping bags into his chest.

"Xander.if you don't take them then I can't get the key out of my pocket to open the door. I don't think you want to stay out here forever."

Xander shakes his head.

"Nope. You made fun of my dance, Wills."

She attempts to hide a giggle and look contrite.

"Sorry, Xand, but it wasn't one of you better ones. Please, take the bags. I'm almost to the point where if I put them down, I don't think I could pick them back up."

"Pff. Whatever, you're only eighteen weeks pregnant. You're not even really fat yet."

Willow hits him with her shopping bags which Xander catches and holds.

"Thanks."

Rolling her eyes, she grabs her keys and unlocks the door. Ty comes up to greet her once they're up the stairs. But there is no blond vampire to be seen. Both reach down to affectionately pet Willow's new guard dog.

"Blondie sleeping?"

Willow answers as she drops her bags. Xander's follow hers.

"Probably, why you have a hankering for PS2?"

Xander shrugs.

"Guess I better get back to Anya then. Let you get to unpacking all that stuff."

He gestures at the shopping bag covered floor.

"Xander Harris! You just want to get out of unpacking and folding!"

"That and avoid the jealous wrath of one ex-man-killing-demon. I'm afraid if I stay away too long then she'll start talking about wanting to have a baby or two."

Willow gasps in horror while Xander smiles. She then gives him a quick hug and business him down the stairs.

"Go home, Xand. Placate the demon girlfriend."

"Ok. Tell Fang to get you safe to Giles' tonight or else."

"Alright."

She waits until she hears the door shut down stairs before moving completely into the apartment looking for Spike.

"Ty find Spikey."

Her dog just looks up with wet eyes and wags his tail. Willow shakes her head but pets him anyway. Spike is nowhere to be seen. Willow however does hear the faint strums of a guitar floating through the air. Picking up her entourage of bags, Willow walks into her room deposits them, then shuffles over to Spike's door.

"Spike?"

Curiously, she wanders into his room. Sitting on his bed with his back to her, Spike is playing an acoustic guitar. He steps when he hears his roommate call his name.

"Have fun shopping with Chubs?"

Willow joins him on the bed. She ignores the 'chubs' remark. It's a lost cause.

"Yup. I have a whole new wardrobe."

"Good."

His fingers start to pick out a few chords.

"I didn't know you could play."

"Have for a good six decades."

"Let me guess-another way to keep yourself occupied during the day."

Spike smiles.

"Yea, Little Owl."

"You picked up a lot of things."

"Had to."

"Guess so. Crazy girlfriend, hyperactive tendencies."

Spike chuckles indignantly.

"I am not hyperactive."

Willow raises her eyebrows.

"Spikey, vampire-mine, you smoke and you don't breathe; you vacuum your room sometimes twice daily; each item of clothing you own if not folded neatly gets ironed, including your jeans. You learned how to apply acrylic nails and play guitar when you should have been sleeping. Not only are you hyperactive but I think you might be obsessive compulsive as well."

Spike scoffs at her.

"Right, Pet."

"I should know. I'm in psych!"

Her smile enhances the sarcasm in her voice.

"So play something for me."

He looks down at the strings thinking then retunes the guitar. When he plays the first few chords, Willow squeals.

"I love this song!"

Spike grins while stills strumming and begins to sing.

And even though the moment passed me by

I still can't turn away

I saw the dreams you never thought you'd lose

Tossed along the way

Letters that you never meant to send

Are lost and blown away

And now we've grown up orphans I never knew their names

We don't belong to no one, that's a shame

You could hide beside me, maybe for awhile

And I won't tell no one your name

I won't tell your name

The scar's a souvenir she'd never lose

The past is never far

And did you lose yourself somewhere out there

Did you get to be a star

Don't it make you sad to know that life

Is more than who we are

You grew up way too fast

Now there's nothing to believe

The reruns all become my history

A tired song keeps playing on a tired radio

And I won't tell no one your name

And I won't tell your name

I think about you all the time

But I don't need to think

If it's lonely where you are, come back down

And I won't tell your name

Unsure of himself, Spike glances over at his friend when he finishes. Willow gives him a small but reassuring smile.

"You have a beautiful voice."

"Like my sexy hands?"

Willow's face does a convincing imitation of a cherry.

"Sure, Spike."

He waggles his eyebrows at her suggestively.

"You have such a big ego."

"That's not the only part of me that's big."

Willow's countenance deepens another ten shades of crimson, surpassing even her hair. Feeling the heat of her face radiating, Willow gets indignant and smacks his arm.

"Just keeping things interesting, Pet."

Willow shakes her head and pats his leg.

"I'm gonna make some dinner for me and my two boarders. Feeling 'peckish'?"

"No."

The red head watches as he lovingly puts his guitar in its case and stows the case under his bed. Spike stands then helps Willow up. Following her out the door to the kitchen, Spike with the same loving care lays a hand on the small of her back.

"What do you want? I'll make it for you-let you get some homework done."

She turns and gives him a grin.

"Ok."

While Spike goes to the kitchen, Willow goes to her room to retrieve her bag and books.

"I love this reduced schedule deal."

"What, Little Owl?"

"I reduced the number of classes I'm taking for the second semester."

"Oh. Is that how you went shopping with the moron today?"

"Uh, huh. I just have to make them up some summer down the line."

Spike nods and starts pulling out pots and food, feeling comfortingly domestic.

"You know, Pet. I'll baby-sit next year so you can go fulltime to school."

He holds up a hand to forestall Willow's thanks.

"Only for you, Little Owl."

})i({

Willow looks up when she feels a hand on her head; up into cobalt eyes.

"I'm leaving to go to the library."

"Huh?"

"I just need to do a little research."

"Don't hurt yourself."

Without further explanation, he winks and leaves. Willow shrugs and turns back to her calculus book. Ty again settles at her feet unperturbed by Spike's sudden absence. Before Willow can finish her first problem, someone is knocking at the door. Willow, with great exertion, heaves herself out of the couch and waddles down to the door.

"Xander, if you forgot your key again."

Stopping mid-sentence, Willow just stares at Oz standing in the doorway.

"Hi, Willow."

The red head continues to stare. While he waits for the shock to run its course Oz takes in some of the major changes in his ex-girlfriend, notably the swollen belly. Then it all comes together-the conversation with Devon, his insistence he come in person, Willow's shock.

"Oz."

She steps back form the door allowing Oz room to step in. He follows her up the stairs and to a couch. Ty starts to growl immediately upon Oz entering the room. Willow hushes him with a pat to his head and a few curt words. Oz takes a seat across from Willow and the dog. There's no need for a fight to start out. He markedly looks at her midsection eventually raising his eyes to meet hers.

"So I guess this is what you needed to tell me."

"Uh, huh. Although, I had lost hope you would actually come to talk to me."

"I was busy."

The voice cold and calculating chills Willow. This is not the same man she once loved; the same man whose children she carried.

"Boy or Girl?"

"Two little boys."

Oz snorts. Willow sniffles back tears. She finds herself looking around for Spike rushing to comfort her, but she remembers he is not there. Oz uncharacteristically decides to break the silence.

"So what do you want from me?"

Tears spring anew to the dams behind her eyes. Ty sensing his mistresses' pain starts to growl deep in the back of his throat. Oz is tempted to respond in kind; the wolf in him begging to show the pup a lesson.

"I thought you might want to be a part of your son's lives. I also need to ask you some things about the werewolf."

Off-handedly without any regard for the woman he loved once, Oz responds.

"Oh, don't worry. It isn't passed through the male line-just a scratch or a bite or through the mother. And I don't see why you need me."

Willow calms herself before speaking, desperately trying to hold on to her dignity. "What cold part of yourself did you find on your journey that you thought was so much better?"

Oz shrugs.

"I improved."

He then stands. The growl from the floor turns to a bark.

"I found the wolf to be a little more agreeable than we all thought. I have to leave though; don't have room for two little tykes in my life right now. And you better control your dog."

Willow gasps at the implied threat. Once the door slams downstairs, the dam behind her eyes splinter and break. She is helpless in front of the deluge of tears. She lets them come and collapses on the couch. Ty in his infinite love comes to her rescue and wiggles himself onto her lap. Glad for his comfort, Willow just hugs him tightly and sobs.

The prevailing scent that hits Spike when he walks in is salt tears. Overwhelming in their intensity, Spike rushes to find his red head. She is asleep on the couch, using Ty for a pillow, dry tear marks staining her pale face. He is to her and has her in his arms before Willow wakes up. Ty reluctantly relinquishes his master without a fight. Willow wakes up pleasantly surprised to be in Spike's arms as he reverently strokes her hair and wipes the remaining wetness from her face.

"Hormone moment, Little Owl?"

She shakes her head.

"No, found out the boys aren't going to be werewolves."

"I know, Pet. Giles and I were working on that tonight. Did he call?"

"No, Oz told me. Then he said he didn't want anything to do with his children. And he's gone. He left again."

There it was. Something he knew was coming and Willow knew was coming if she admitted it to herself but still didn't ebb the storm. Damn pregnant hormones.

"Ok. I'm done. Maybe that was just a little bit of a pregnant moment."

Willow smiles slyly.

"You do have a right to be upset over Oz leaving you in the dust."

"I'm not really in the dust."

Willow looks from her hands, eyes shinning with something Spike can't recognize.

"No, Pet, you're not."

Willow pecks Spike on the cheek then goes to the bathroom to clean up. Stunned, Spike sits there hand grazing over the kissed cheek wondering what the hell just happened.

})i({

Spike walks into the apartment just as the sun starts to appear over the horizon to the sound of Willow heaving in the bathroom. Throwing his duster over then back of a chair, he moves to the bathroom. Ty is sitting outside annoyed at being left out. Spike knocks lightly on the door.

"Go away, Spike!"

He ignores her and goes in anyway leaving Ty in the hall. Spike after grabbing a hair tie out of a cupboard pulls her hair back and fastens it.

"Leave me be. No need to stare at the nasty, sick, little girl."

Ignoring her again completely, Spike proceeds to mop her forehead with a cold washcloth.

"You're not nasty, Little Owl. Just sick. Now get it all up and out of your system." He sits on the tub to rub her back while the morning sickness runs its course.

})i({

Anya is curled up on the couch with Xander. Buffy and Riley share a love seat. Some random movie plays in front of them. Ty lays at the foot of Willow's chair snoring happily. And Spike is watching Willow struggle to get comfortable. At five months pregnant especially with twins and a small frame, Willow's body has been taken hostage. Her back aches, her feet are swollen from walking around campus, and Spike knows she still isn't used to it all-she still can't sit down long contentedly.

Without anyone noticing, he sneaks out of his chair and appears behind Willow's love seat.

"Scoot foreword, Luv."

Looking up at him, she slides to the edge of the seat. Again without drawing attention to himself and without Ty giving him away, he vaults over the chair. Willow leans back into Spike. Instinctually, his hands find the swell of her belly and beings to stroke it tenderly. Finally finding her comfortable seat, she watches the movie.

Buffy finding her arm has fallen asleep shifts to change into a less blood depriving position. Her eyes land on Spike and Willow. He has one hand still stroking her womb while the other has sought out her back working a knot out of the small of it. Jade green eyes close in momentary pleasure- the shadow of a smile gracing her lips. Across the room, Buffy's face bares the bright light of the smile whose shadow falls on Willow's face.

})i({

Willow looks up at Xander as he strolls through Giles's door. The smile leaves her face.

"Don't look so blue, Wills. It could give me a complex."

That brings the smile back. The brunette flops down beside her.

"Who are you so anxiously waiting for?"

Absently, while turning a page, Willow answers.

"Spike. He's bringing me a snack."

"Oh!"

"No, Xander, you cannot have my food. I'm eating for three. Find your 'growing boy' nourishment somewhere else."

Xander pouts-lips jutted out, eyes shinning with fake tears. Willow smacks him. "Ow! Wait.he didn't let you walk over here by yourself."

"No, put away your pick ax. I came with Buffy after class. He was picking up food and coming over after sunset."

As she says it the golden orb sinks beneath the trees. Willow starts to salivate. Before she resorts to knowing on the book in her lap, Spike arrives.

"Wonderful! My delivery boy!"

Spike growls when Xander howls with laughter.

"Come on, Spike! I'm hungry!"

"Only for you, Little Owl."

A ghost white hand slips into a pocket pulling out a jar of pickles then sour cream. Out of another pocket comes some cheese and honey mustard sauce. He starts ruffling through some more pockets looking for the last bits: peanut butter, cold spaghetti noodles, and Tabasco sauce mixed together in a Tupperware container. Xander gags.

"God, Willow. That's nasty."

"This coming from the human garbage disposal."

"Blame my boarders. They're demanding little fellows."

Spike smiles. Xander rolls his eyes. There's a slight scratching noise at the door.

"Spike! Did you leave Ty outside? If you bring him you can't do that!"

Spike looks mildly sheepish but mostly shrugs it off with his jacket to settle in a couch. Willow heaves herself up and lets him in. When she sits back down, Ty settles at her feet. Giles wanders in nose in a book.

"See that he behaves."

"Ty always does. It's Spike we have to watch out for. He can make horrible messes on the carpet."

Willow bites into her snack with a flourish and smiles triumphantly at Spike who sticks his tongue out at her. They all settle in for a long night of research.

})i({

"AHH!"

Spike slams into wakefulness with the force of a freight train. He throws on a pair of jeans then rushes to find his screaming roommate.

"Red?"

"In here, Spike. Come here!"

He discovers her lying in her bed holding her stomach.

"Everything alright?"

She nods and reaches for his hands. Spike doesn't hesitate to relinquish his hands to her as he sits down.

She puts his hands on her womb, and Spike feels jumping.

"They decided they were bored and wanted to play soccer with each other."

In awe, the vampire smiles.

"Bloody hell, Little Owl."

Willow giggles causing her belly to shake more.

"Sometimes I think you have too much fun, Pet."

Willow snorts.

"Yeah especially when they wake me up in the middle of the night or when my back is in so much pain I can't walk or I have to pee every half and hour."

Wordlessly Spike takes the hint and pulls himself to sit behind her. A relieved moan escapes the mother-to-be when his hands touch her back. Regardless of lost sleep and achy hands, Spike just smiles-his heart wonderfully warm and alive and his feat firmly planted on the ground.

})i({

Spike walks in from patrolling to find Willow sobbing on the couch; Ty whimpering at his mistress's feet. He runs to her searching for injuries.

"What happened? What's wrong?"

He frantically checks each limb. Willow just points at the TV where the seven-up guy is currently standing in the middle of the freeway. Spike can't help but laugh which makes Willow start to cry harder.

"Sorry, Little Owl, it's the seven-up bloke! What could he have done?"

Willow uses his shirt sleeve to wipe her nose.

"Its *sob* not him. There *sob* was *sob* another commercial."

Laughter still in his eyes, Spike decides to take pity on pregnant hormones.

"What commercial, Pet?"

"There was this commercial *sob* with *sob* with *sob* with *big gulping sobs*."

Spike pulls her close.

"Ok, deep breaths, Red. Settle down."

Willow inhales deeply then begins again.

"This commercial-I don't *sob* remember what it was for, *sob* but it had a dad *sob* with two little boys. They said *sob* they said having a baby *sob* changes everything."

Then Spike got it-dad.boys.babies.Oz.

"It's alright, Pet. It's just hormones. You don't want the pup around the boys anyway. You'll do fine without him." "Are you insinuating that I'm being maudlin for no reason?! I'm not being overly emotional! There are no hormones here! I'm just upset."

Willow stomps off to her room. Shaking his head and grinning, Spike follows.

"Little Owl, come on. Open the door."

"No!"

"It's alright. Oz is a dog. You don't need him, and you'll feel better with some tea. Let me make you some tea then we can touch up your nails."

Silence looms on the other side of the door. Spike lowers his head then concedes.

"I'm sorry."

The door opens a crack.

"Really? And you'll do my nails?"

"Sure, they are getting pretty ratty."

Willow breaks into a sunshine grin through the clouds of her tears.

"Ok."

"I've even got some new names for you."

Willow, grin still nailed to her face, takes the proffered arm and comes out of her room. She goes back to the couch and falls down; this time with the TV off. Her roommate brings her tissues and tea then pulls out the nail supplies.

"Remember, Pet. You're too good for him. Don't waste yourself on anyone who doesn't love you."

Through the haze of her pain her heart smiles and slowly a decision is forming in her mind to match the conviction of her soul.

})i({

Willow turns over again trying to find a pleasant position to sleep in. A quick glance to the neon numbers on her bedside table shows 4:15 in the morning. Again she tries to get comfortable. A few minutes though affords her no such luck so she gives up and manages to pull herself out of bed. Willow waddles over to her closet to retrieve a robe.

"Goddess, I fee like a penguin. Waddling! I waddle!"

She continues to mumble as she walks out to the TV room. As she approaches she can hear the soft strands of Spike's acoustic guitar.

"Spike?"

He looks up from the strings.

"Couldn't sleep, Little Owl?"

"No. The boarders aren't cooperating."

She settles in the couch near his arm chair. Spike reaches out to lovingly caress her large belly.

"You two need to give your mum a break and stop keeping her up."

Willow giggles.

"Play something for us. Music is good for them."

"Sure, Pet."

Willow leans back and puts her feet up as he starts to play. She smiles softly as he keeps up the music, song after song. The sun starts to come up later as Spike finally puts down his guitar. After his instrument is tucked away in its case, he slips in behind the red head on the sofa.

"Time is it, Spike?"

"Shh. Just go back to sleep. I'll wake you up in time to get to campus."

He starts to sing softly again to her while rubbing her stomach lulling her back into a dream world. Her breath slows with her heartbeat. Spike smiles and closes his eyes relishing in his warmth and light.

})i({

Willow looks down at filed nails as Spike begins to add more acrylic goo. A thought pops into her mind with a ferocious tenacity that will not allow it to be dropped.

"Do you miss it?"

Per usual Spike does not miss a beat but continues to flawlessly fill-in her nails while trying to follow her train of thought.

"Miss what, Little Owl?"

"The killing; the death. You know, life without the chip."

That however floors Spike who misses her middle finger completely and has to rush to wipe off the quickly hardening goo. He sighs deeply then gazes up into her eyes.

"Sometimes."

"Enough to have it removed."

"No, Pet. I may have done it for quite a few years and every once in awhile I miss the adrenaline rush, but I think I've found something better- something I never thought could fulfill me the way killing did."

For the first time in his unlife, Spike smiles shyly and ducks his head. Willow allows his words to settle into herself forming a glow in her heart.

"I'm glad you finally saw the fruitlessness in destroying things. Try creating something and the world takes on a whole new meaning."

"And here mum thought I was the poet."

Both glance at each other, falling deep into the jewel tone of the other's eyes.

"I have been taking writing classes, you know."

"I know, Little Owl. I know."

He bestows a secretive wink on her. Willow's insides turn into a substance much like the goo Spike is placing on her nails.

})i({

"What if I do love him?"

Buffy's head snaps up from her dorm-food lunch.

"I knew it!"

"So when did it happen?"

Willow smiles wistfully.

"Sometimes I think I fell in love with him about the same time he was shoving a bottle in my face."

Buffy nods, motioning with her hands for her friend to continue.

"Tell me, Wills. Tell me why you love him."

Willow's eyes flutter shut for a moment while she tries to center herself. She inhales deeply.

"He ushers me through doors when we go anywhere, even in the apartment. He opens doors then places his hand on the small of my back and guides me through it."

"You love him for a chauvinistic gesture?"

"No, because he thinks of me first. I'm not an afterthought he holds the door for. I'm the person he lets go first. He invited me into the privacy of his apartment without qualms or me even having to beg. He's financed every shopping trip, intends to baby-sit so I can continue to go to school, he's been there when I needed him most."

"So it's a gratitude thing. Because I don't anyone would appreciate that sort of love. Especially someone as loved-starved as Spike is."

"No! It's a kindness and friendship thing. He did all of those things because he cares, and he's not afraid so show me I'm his friend. He may not love me, but the way he loves, the way he cares makes me love him. The person he has become makes me love him. And the little things, little things that remind me of our friendship just make me love him more."

"Oh, Wills, that's so beautiful. And he does love you. I'm sure."

Both girls by now are crying in the middle of Buffy's dorm room, holding tightly to one another for comfort.

"Maybe, but I hope to all things good that you're right. Because when I'm with him things feel right and good and safe. Remember, Buffy, life is gray area. You can't make it black and white. You can't categorize. Please, don't file him away in the blood-sucking-demon category. He's so much more than that."

"I know, Willow. I have no doubt he's good enough for you. Even though he might be loyal and faithful to a fault, I still have to let him know that if another Oz happens he'll wish I'd dusted him."

Willow giggles while wiping away the rest of her tears.

"I knew I could count on you for a good threat."

"That's why they call me the slayer."

"Yeah, do you think you could use a few of those slay techniques to get him to love me."

"Oh, that won't be necessary. I have a feeling it'll work out in a few days."

Willow frowns at Buffy's jubilant statement as Xander appears to join them for another all day shopping trip.

})i({

"Spike."

He rolls ever and falls back asleep.

"Spikey."

"Not now, Dru."

When his sleep fogged mind catches up with the implications of whom he just addressed, Spike jumps to his feet ready for any action. He sees a transparent Drusilla giggling at him from the door of his bedroom.

"What the bloody hell are you doing here, Luv?"

"You need my help, my Spikey."

"No, I don't. Bugger off and go back to where ever you bloody drug yourself up from and leave me to my sleep."

"Let me help. Let me take care of you. I only ever wanted my Spikey happy."

"I'm not yours anymore, Dru."

She starts to stroke his cheek. He marvels at her apparent corporal form despite being transparent in appearance.

"No, you're HERS, the fiery one. Tell her. Be hers. Let her be yours. I want you to have everything I couldn't give you. I was never completely yours. She can be. You can be hers."

"But?"

"She was made for you long before you or I was ever made. You were made for her. Let go.stop running."

"Dru?"

"Let yourself be loved, Spikey. Maybe you don't have to be so strong anymore. Maybe you won't have to run away this time."

"Dru?!"

But then she was gone. Spike is left in his room, alone, in the middle of the day, feeling strangely empty, but strangely hopeful.

})i({

Xander shifts the car into park outside Spike's apartment. Before getting out to help Willow out of the car, he turns to her.

"Buffy told me you two talked before I got there this morning."

Willow groans.

"Not you, too. Do I have to prove his worth to you, too? I'm sorry but I can't help who I love. It just happened."

"I know, Wills. Look at me and Anya. She's an ex-demon; an ex-demon who got her jollies over destroying poor idiots like myself. But that's not what I was going to talk about. I approve. You have my blessing."

Willow, following her typical pattern of late, starts to ball. Xander instantly throws an arm around her shoulder in true brotherly fashion.

"You have no idea how much that means to me, Xand. Everything lately. I couldn't have made it without you."

"I know. Just one of the charms of being the Xandman. I help. I heal. I do wonders!"

Willow laughs a little.

"Sorry, for being so maudlin as Spike puts it. Pregnant hormones and all that jazz."

Willow gestures with her hands as she tries to explain.

"Not a problem. Just another building to leap in a single bound for Super Xander."

He hands her a tissue and continues to hold her tight.

"I do think he loves you though Willow. It's the only reason I think he's worth it. Anyone that can see your Willowy charms under all the walls you put up has got to be a winner." "Xander."

He puts up a hand to forestall any of the red head's arguments.

"There are many things you can fake, Wills, looks, gestures, voice. It's called acting-something I would think vampires get very good at. Love as intense as his is for you is not one of them. What I see he could not be faking."

"What do you see, Xander?"

Hope shines in green eyes along with tears.

"Love, plain and simple. Give him a little time, and it'll all come out."

Willow absently rubs her enlarging belly.

"I hope so. For the good of us all, I do hope so."

})i({

Joyce Summers opens her to door to find a dejected Spike standing on her doorstep. Wary from her last visit, she does not let him in right away.

"Hullo, Joyce."

"Spike."

The blond bows his head and sighs. Joyce continues to stare at him unsure as to what he wants or what she should do. Maybe she has time to slam the door and call Buffy.

"You wouldn't perchance have any hot chocolate?"

Spike looks up into Joyce's eyes. She recognizes the forlorn look in his blue orbs.

"Yes, Spike. Come on in."

He follows her back to the kitchen where she begins to prepare the hot chocolate. Spike falls into one of the chairs at the bar.

"What's wrong, Spike? Last time I heard you were running back to Drusilla to beat her back into loving you."

He doesn't miss the slightly skeptical and sarcastic tone.

"I tried. It just didn't work. Came back here, got a chip put in my head, now I can't harm a bloody thing. Surprised the Slayer hasn't filled you in on all my misfortune."

Joyce comes over and pats his shoulder.

"Buffy doesn't come around much anymore, but I remember her mentioning something about the chip and you helping Willow. I know you're going to hate me for saying this, but that's a wonderful thing you're doing for her."

Spike shrugs. One of Joyce's eyebrows shoots up.

"That's why you've come haven't you? So you fell in love with our Willow?"

"Bollocks! Am I that obvious?"

"No, just to a mother's trained eye. So what's the problem then, Spike?"

More out of the habit to calm himself then the actual need for oxygen, Spike takes a deep breathe.

"First, your daughter would bloody use my head for her punching bag if she found out. And I couldn't do that to Willow-not now-not after."

"Oz?"

Spike nods. Joyce brings over two mugs of hot chocolaty goodness with a large bowl of those little marshmallows and sets it all down. Spike reaches for a handful of marshmallows to put in his mug.

"Maybe, that's a decision you have to leave up to those two. Maybe, you should let Willow make her own decisions. And have a little faith in Buffy."

Spike raises his scarred eyebrow.

"Alright, alright. Have faith that Buffy trusts and loves her best friend, even if she doesn't trust you. And give Willow the chance to be in love with you, too. Don't close yourself off just because you're worried she can't handle it. Willow's a strong girl. And love isn't love unless it's worth the risk."

"Cor, Luv, I don't I know that. I'm more worried about myself. I've never.felt this way."

"It's weird when you love someone more than yourself isn't it?"

Spike takes a long swig of his cocoa before answering, trying to stall for time to think.

"Yes, it is. It's the kind of thing I was searching so hard for when I was a human. Thought I found it twice, but it wasn't love with Cecily, and it wasn't love with Dru. It's just strange to know I love Willow."

Joyce smiles tenderly.

"Maybe, you're finally growing up."

Spike chuckles.

"Maybe. My dad always said it would be like this when I found her. But I got side-tracked while I was living with his death and taking care of the family. Then the whole being turned thing and Dru. Several people have been telling me to grow up lately, and if this is being mature then maybe I don't like it."

"You've thought a lot about this, Spike."

He looks up from the white puffs doing cocoa ballet in his cup.

"I have. And it bleedin' hurts! All this thinking and being mature and grown up is for the dogs!"

"You must really care for her."

Spike is silent for several minutes.

"You know, Joyce, I do. I really do. And it scares me because it's new. I got a chip, and it seems I got a whole new life."

"I think you did, Spike. I think you did."

She reaches out for his ice white hand.

"But if you've been searching for this you're entire existence, don't you think it's time to stop running from love and maturity once you've found it."

Again the blond is struck silent in contemplation.

"I know it may hurt to think, but just do it a little more and think what you're life could be like if you embrace it completely and what it could be like without Willow."

She leaves a pot of hot chocolate on the table along with the marshmallows then goes upstairs leaving Spike to his thoughts.

})i({

Willow opens her eyes when she feels Spike move from her feet to her back.

"I've finally figured out the names."

Spike grunts and keeps massaging her back.

"Caleb William and Seth Alexander."

Spike's magick hands stop their dutiful work.

"Pet, you don't have to name one of your boys after me."

"S'alright. I wanted to. You and Xander are my best male friends so you two get the prestigious position of the middle names."

"Really, Little Owl, I don't think that's a good start for any little guy- being named after me."

"Spike."

She turns completely around to look him in the face.

"I think it'll be a fine start for one of my boys."

She lets the inference seep into Spike's brain. He smiles slowly and shakes his head.

"Sometimes I wonder if you have entirely too much faith in me."

"Never."

Willow reaches up to pat his face then afterward turns back so he can resume working on her tense back. To her turned back he shakes his head and mouths the words I love you waiting for Dru and his sire to whisper I told you so in his head.

})i({

Once up the steps and in the apartment, Willow drops her bag unceremoniously to the ground and leans down to pet an exuberant Ty. He leads her to the kitchen where her nose tells her dinner is all ready. She sits down and digs into her dinner while Spike hangs up the phone. Ty settles in between them under the table.

"You are a god, Spike."

"Famished, Luv?"

With her mouth full, Spike barely gets the gist of what she says next.

"Esteme-hally."

She swallows before finishing her thought.

"Who was on the phone?"

Spike makes a vague hand motion in the direction of the telephone.

"No one, Red, just a wrong number."

"Oh."

Willow's tone of voice tells him she is anything but convinced. Spike, on edge that she might discover the secret, frowns.

"Anyway, want to go looking for furniture tonight? I think Xander and I have covered all my clothes needs. But here I am less than three months away from delivery with no baby stuff. He keeps putting that off."

"Good. I mean, no. I think we should stay in tonight."

Willow glances at Spike with a calculating precision that makes him fidgety.

"What's going on tonight that we should stay in?"

"Well, nothing bad. But you've got to be tired. You were at the campus late. I can give you a rub down or we could finish going through the baby books."

"Spike, you've read each of those books several times. You've been giving me tips on being pregnant. I feel fine. My energy is up. I'm for once not having an outrageous mood swing. Let's get outta this damn apartment!"

Spike is taken aback by the force behind Willow's statement. He decides to pull out his wild card.

"Little owl, I want to stay in because I have a surprise for you."

In a fit of excitement, Willow pushes all of her suspicions to the back of her mind for future analysis.

"What?"

"Well.um.It's a secret. Finish you're dinner then meet me at the TV."

Spike jumps out of his chair and rushes to his room to find her surprise. Ty bounds after him. He pulls out a package from deep under his bed.

"I hope this fools her for the time, boy."

Ty nods in agreement then licks the vampire full on the face.

"Whoa Ty! No need for a bath, you silly mutt."

Ty just continues to pant happily and follows Spike out to the living room where Willow sits waiting.

"Here you go, Luv."

Without further embellishment, he hands off the bag to the anxious mother- to-be. She opens it to find two hand-made quilts just the size for small children.

"Oh, Spike."

Beyond her initial exclamation, she can't seem to form any words. Silently, she turns the blankets over and over in her hands. The soft fabric slips around her hands, and her eyes become lost in the bright patterns.

"Found them while shopping one day. Just knew they'd be perfect."

"They are perfect."

Willow glances up at him with shining eyes. Ty adds a few barks from his place at her feet to show his approval.

"Don't start crying on me, Little Owl."

She sniffles.

"Oh, I won't. I'll try to hold it in."

She smiles at him. He smiles back. Suddenly, it all clicks. His life stare at him full in the face, daring him to take the next step, walking-to stop and take what is being handed to him; not turn and run from it. What is he brave enough to take? What is he ready to accept? Has he finally grown up? Grabbing the gift before him without hesitation, Spike grabs her hands and pulls her up and into his arms. His arms go possessively around her lower back.

"Spike?"

"I love you, Willow."

He pulls her tighter against him with each softly spoken word. This time, pressed tightly against him, the feel of his strong, soothing presence, the sound of a softly whispered declaration of love, the use of her real name, Willow is unable to control the emotions, and she bursts into the tears. Then everything goes white.

})i({ })i({