Chapter 4. Reunions.
Buffy and Anya are home at the Summers house, they are talking. Dawn is upstairs.
Buffy: I noticed there was some mail for you in the mail box today. I guess that makes it official. You are living here. (She sounds slightly disturbed.)
Anya: Yeah conciliatory cards are still pouring in from the demon realm. So I had my mail forwarded here. Hoped you wouldn't mind.
Buffy: Well you did end up letting me use your wedding to get married. So mi casa su casa. (She tries to sound chipper.)
Anya: Don't think I don't know it's been tricky having me here. I really thought Xander would come to his senses. Or at least be so sex starved he set a wedding date by now. But since he hasn't, I don't want to be all free loading and stuff, so I wrote you a check. I consider it a deposit to show good faith.
Buffy: Anya you didn't have to do that. (Takes the check from her.) But since you went through all the effort of writing it. Plus I really appreciate you picking up the groceries last night.
Anya: No problem, except it wasn't me though. While you and Dawn were out last night. A nice young delivery guy stopped by, with groceries. The super market had a contest and you won. So he dropped off some stuff and I had him carry it all to the kitchen.
Buffy: I don't remember entering. Bet it was Dawn. She likes it when things get easy. She keeps buying lottery tickets, hoping we'll win.
Anya: Well maybe she just entered to impress the cute delivery guy. Most intense eyes, I've seen. Should have tipped him, but well you didn't have any change around the house.
Buffy: Well did ya try your wallet?
Anya: Hey. That would have meant tipping him for your groceries with my money. No benefits there.
Buffy: Won't you actually be eating self same groceries?
Anya: Ah yes, but my cheque deposit includes groceries. (Here she smiles.)
Buffy: (She just rolls eyes.) Guess there's no competing with your logic there. Actually what I really wanted to ask you about was fiancees. You did such a good job with that balance, or budget sheet, you know the one with all the numbers letting me know how much money I don't have to spend.
Anya: (Pulls something out of her purse.) Here. Had to have something to do, you know to keep my mind off Xander and all the great sex were not having. Spike and Dawn helped me fill in the blanks for the calculations.
Buffy: Thanks. (Takes the paper from her.) I'm sure Xander will come around. Eventually. (Thinks it's been a couple of weeks.)
Anya: He hasn't even come by the store. Without all Dawn's help the last couple of weeks, I would have been swamped. If this keeps up I'm going to have to hire her as part-time help. No more free child labor.
Buffy: (Laughs.) Wouldn't that be too bad. (Just then she hears the front door opening.)
It's the end of the week. Spike arrives at the house. He has several packages with him as he enters the house..
Buffy: What's all this?
Spike: Presents.
Buffy: What's the special occasion?
Spike: Do I need one?
Buffy: (Looks at him.) No.
Spike: (Hands Buffy some flowers.) Got these at the mall, picked up some other things. Stores were closing when I left. But picked up a couple of goodies.
Buffy: (Takes the flowers.) Thanks. They're really beautiful.
Spike: Now they got competition luv. (He smiles at her.)
Just then Dawn comes down the stairs and enters.
Dawn: Spike.
Spike: Hey Nibblet. How's it going?
Dawn: Going good, how bout you?
Spike: Not bad, just got back from the mall. Stopped by a certain little store.
Dawn: (Sees the bag.) You didn't?
Spike: Yeah I did bit.
Dawn: (She goes over and takes the bag with the shirt. Looks inside.) It's even the right colour. (Gives him a hug.)
Spike: Couldn't let my lil Nibblet down.
Buffy: You got her the shirt, I said she could have cause we don't have the money?
Dawn: (Dawn stands there looking defiant. There's no way the shirts going back.)
Spike: Got you something too. Got a job now. So I can now. (He hands Buffy a present.) You might want to open it a bit later. Let me see how it looks. (Says it with that certain suggestive twinge in his voice. The one that just sends shivers down her spine.)
Buffy: ( She stands there looking hopeful.)
Spike: Bit could you put these in the fridge for me?
Dawn: (Takes the other bag. See the packets of blood inside.) Does this mean you're back? (Sounds really hopeful.)
Spike: Yeah. Finished sassing stuff out. Told you I be back.
Dawn: (Dawn smiles, and walks off to the kitchen really happy. Not the least bit grossed out as she puts his packets, in his special drawer. Her family is together again.)
Buffy: You're back? (Tries to sound calm, but she can't hide the emotion in her voice.)
Spike: Didn't think I could stay away did you?
Buffy: I was hoping. (Goes to him.)
Spike: Missed you luv. (He looks into her eyes, as he stokes her hair.) Everything about you.
Buffy: (Embraces and kisses him. He came back and kept his promise to her.) I missed you, not being here. You belong with me. I'm sorry for what I did.
Spike: (Hushes her with a kiss. They have been talking whenever he's stopped in, but this is the first time they have really physically started to connect since the argument. She feels wonderful, and it's great to have her back in his arms. He wants nothing better, than to bring her upstairs and show her.) All this missing, we should do something about that. (Gives her that certain special look.)
Buffy: (Fully in line with whatever he has in mind.) We should.
Anya: Hey still in the room here.
Spike: Oh almost forgot. (He takes his attention for Buffy for a moment.) Got you something too, since you're living here now. (Hands her something.)
Anya: Oh it's a gift certificate. That's almost as good as money. You got me money. (She sounds really happy.) Thanks.
Spike: Don't mention.
Dawn: (Re-enters the room.) So what do you guys want to do this evening?
Buffy: (Buffy gives Spike a really suggestive look, as he pulls her back into his arms, and holds her around the waist.) We're just going to turn in.
Dawn: But it's still so early.
Spike: (Wispers something in Buffy ear. Which makes her smile.) Yeah been a long day. We're tired, so exhausted.
Buffy: (She does a fake yawn. Trying to hide her excitement.)
Anya: Really. Cause you two just made up. And I know whenever me and Xander make up all we want to do is have, wild, loud, obnoxious sex, and lots of it. But if you two are exhausted... cause I was going to suggest you two head back to the crypt. I could stay here with Dawn. That way you two can have some...
Dawn: Alone time?
Anya: I was going to say wild, mad, monkey, sex. But what you said works just as well. (Pats Dawn on the head.)
Buffy: Well there may be a couple of things we want to pick up, back at the crypt. (Smiles as his lip caress her neck.)
Spike: Yeah, well probably just watch some telly. Practice more of that cyborg wrestling.
Anya: (Her and Dawn exchange knowing looks.) Well let's get you packed and off you go. Only so much more of this cuteness I can handle.
Buffy gets her stuff and gets ready to go to Spike's crypt for the evening.
Dawn: (Tells Buffy.) Have fun. I will be fine here with Anya.
Spike: (Hugs Buffy around the waist. Kisses her on the neck.) That's a guarantee pet.
Dawn: (Her and Anya exchange gushing looks.)
Buffy: (Buffy to Dawn.) Guess that line about wrestling cyborg's isn't working for ya, any more.
Dawn: That line wouldn't work even if I was like five. (Her and Dawn hug.)
They say their good-byes and Buffy and Spike head to his crypt.
Spike and Buffy arrive at the crypt. Then he picks her up and carries her inside. Reminiscent of the scene that just pasted over a month ago.
Buffy: So what did you get me?
Spike: You can open that later. Right now I want to show you what I got me. (He hands her a bag.)
Buffy: (She looks inside and frowns.) Either you're way more kinky than I knew, or you've got some explaining to do. (Inside the bag, is leather boostie, and the matching undies, and whip cream.)
Spike: What didn't say I'd be the one wearing it. That's your job. I just get to do the unwrapping, that's my present. Well that and this. (Holds up a can of whip cream that he nicked from their fridge.) You leather, can of whip cream. My night's made.
Buffy: Oh I like this.
Spike: (They make their way downstairs.) I was hoping you'd like this a whole lot more. (Gives her that certain look.) Come here pet. (He pulls her to him. He's sitting on the bed. She's standing before him, between his legs. He opens her shirt. He kisses her stomach. He loves the taste of her, her warmth, and her smell. He finds it intoxicating, and he's been missing it for days. The kisses make their way up her neck. As his hands work the rest of her clothes.)
Buffy: (She players with his buttons, while his mouth players with her skin. She leans into him to give him full access to her tender skin. His hands caress her back, the nape of her neck. He kneads her skin with his hands. He pulls her down on the bed, firm and fast. She wraps her hands around his neck, and they kiss. She works his clothing off his body none too gently. They are kissing and nibbling on each other. Biting and tearing at anything, that's still separating them. She pushes him down on the bed. She gets on top of him, she plays her nails down his stomach, kisses and makes little bits down his skin. He finds it arousing.) Where are the cuffs?
Spike: There's that sex kitten talk again. Left them at the house.
Buffy: That's ok. Well just improvise ...later. Now were where we? (She positions herself onto him so that they are finally connected. She is breathing heavily and she grasps his shoulders for support. Before she begins moving.) I missed you. (She speaks now, because soon speech won't be available to her faculties. Everything about him feels so good.)
Spike: (Grasps her hips, and helps her along. He pulls her closer, and positions them even more securely together.) Buffy. (He says her name over and over. It's all he's wanted since he left. This and their connection and intimacy.)
Buffy: (He rises up, so that their upper bodies interlock, just like their lower bodies. Their movements are quick and intense. Fire, heat, and primal passions, all stirred up, and with their final few moments released. She arches back and cries out. Then their lips interlock. They are spent for the moment. But they have a long night ahead of them.)
Some moments later.
Spike: (He plays with her hair as they come back down to earth.) Sweetheart I missed you. (He reaches over and kisses her again. Glad they are back on all intimate terms.)
Buffy: Hummm. (She lies beside him. Smiling purring and content.) Me too. I missed you. Let's not separate when we fight. I'm really sorry for what I did. I wasn't thinking. If I'd hurt you. If...
Spike: Let's never fight like that again. Or at least only on cloudy days.
Buffy: Do you forgive me?
Spike: Do I play kitten poker?
Buffy: Guess that's a yes. Do you really hate what I do. I mean slaying is my life, it's my job.
Spike: Never said I hate what you do. You help people. I love that bout you. You're the slayer, it's part of who I fell in love with. The whole part and parcel. Not just one part. It's everything about you and that includes your slaying. I don't know why you got so upset. Something else going on, that you're not telling me?
Buffy: I've had a lot on my mind. Would you still love me if I was someone else?
Spike: This isn't like our dress up game is it?
Buffy: (Hit's him.) I'm serious. If I was darker, not as slayer filled goodness. If I turned all evil and just if I was different.
Spike: Not sure I'm following you round that bend. I've been evil. You love me. Why would I stop loving you?
Buffy: I'm just being silly I guess.
Spike: I worry you'll stop loving me. But never stop loving you. Never lose my desire for you. Always need you. (Looks into her eyes.)
Buffy: (She nestles him to her.) Then I guess we're good.
Spike: Very good. (He kisses her and they make love creatively and romantically for the rest of the night.)
That night the Summers house is quite. Anya in her room, and Dawn sleeps in hers.
Dawn: (She wakes up slightly from a troubled sleep. She stirs as a slight shiver runs up her back. She pulls the light cover up around her legs, and upper body. A few seconds later she can feel the covers being pulled back down, off her body and her legs. She awakes fully, and reaches for the light. It does not turn on, but with the slight moon light coming in threw the window she can made out a silhouette. Then she hears a voice.)
Syica: I was enjoying the view that's why I moved the covers.
Dawn: (She knows that she is not alone in the room. She screams out.) BUFFY! BUUFFFY!
Syica: (Walks over to her. Puts his hand over her mouth.) STOP! Screaming.
Dawn: (Mumbles out threw his hand.) Why should I?
Syica: Because you are going to give me a headache. I'm going to remove my hand miss muppet. If you scream this is going to be unpleasant. I do so hate headaches.
Dawn: (He slowly removes his hand and she's about to scream again. But he puts his hand back. She indicates she won't scream.)
Syica: Sides your sister is not here. Off with that husband of hers. The vamp. Saw them leave. Just me you and the blond down the hall and she won't disturb us.
Dawn: What did you do to Anya? (Is scared and worried for Anya.)
Syica: Nothing, but I think you are going to find she has a hard time getting out of the room to come help you. (Syica has locked Anya inside the room from the outside. He has secured the door, and left a few surprises inside the room for Anya. A scream can be heard from the room down the hall.)
Dawn: What did you do? Get off me, let go. (He has her in a vulnerable hold, making it hard for her to move.)
Syica: No. You know why I'm here, and you know what I want. (Looks into her eyes.)
Dawn: (She's forgotten over the last few weeks, how intense this vamps eyes are, but now that her eyes have adjusted, she can see and feel his intense stare. Gulps.) To dance?
Syica: Yep I want that dance you promised me. Can't keep a vamp cooling his heals forever. I've been sitting here for hours waiting for you to wake up. Surprised you could sleep with all the snoring you do.
Dawn: You wanted to dance so bad, as you call it. You could have just killed me, I wouldn't have known the difference.
Syica: Not as much fun. I like a more lively partner. Not snoring sandwiches. Still I remember how good you taste though, but you need some meat on those bones. A vampire is going to have to go back for seconds elsewhere, you're not going to be much to snack on. I usually like my meals a little more filling. I could drain you in one sip.
Dawn: (She's scared cause Buffy and Spike are at the crypt and she still doesn't know why Anya keeps screaming down the hallway. Then more fear as the screaming stops.) Let go! (She tries to struggle, but he keeps her pinned.)
Syica: Thought I'd take the time to get the upper hand this time. So we could have a nice pleasant chat. We seem to keep getting interrupted.
Dawn: I'm not afraid of you, and I do so, not snore, and I'm not too skinny.
Syica: Never said you were skinny, I just like them with a little more meat, that Jessica was so sweet. Oh but not as sweet as you are going to be.
Dawn: So are we going to talk, or are you going to bite me, and stop boring me.
Syica: See that's what I mean. Moxie. Even when you know you might die.
Dawn: What do you mean might?
Syica: I like my food conscious. Half asleep like this you're no challenge. But I got bored waiting for another opportunity to dance, so I thought I'd pay you a visit. I saw opportunity and here I am.
Dawn: How did you get in? Someone who lives her has to do it. Buffy and Spike would stake you on the spot, and I KNOW I SO DID NOT INVITE YOU IN.
Syica: You forgot someone.
Dawn: There's no one else living here besides... (Suddenly she remembers Anya. And that the screaming has stopped for a good two minutes.) If you've hurt her. I'm going to dust the floor with you, and use your ashes for fertilizer.
Syica: Relax. She's not who I came for. Besides this is just a friendly visit. Accept my request and I'll leave.
Dawn: What request?
Syica: One dance. Your choosing, time and place. Uninterrupted. We meet, we battle and to the victor goes the spoils. What do you say? (Gives he a look. That says she has no choice.)
Suddenly there is a loud and desperate knock on the door. It is Anya.
Anya: Dawn. Dawn. Are you in there? Are you hurt? I heard you screaming for Buffy, and my door was locked and someone... Someone... Left bunnies all over my room. Is this a trick of some sort for the baby-sitter? Did I not let you win at monopoly when I should have? What's going on? I had to climb through my window and come back in through the front door. Let me tell you that is not an experience that I wish to relive again.
Syica: (Putting his hand back over Dawn's mouth. Talking to Anya.) Woman stop prattling. (Just remembering how the blond liked to talk. And in that strangely literal fashion.) I'm afraid little miss muppet is somewhat indisposed at the moment. Did you like the surprise I left you?
Anya: Hey wait. I know that voice. You're that delivery guy. Is this cause I didn't leave you a tip. Cause I have some change in my purse and I could go get it for you.
Syica: Yes, I was a bit hurt about the lack of a tip for my delivery efforts, but then I realized you gave me a tip of another kind. You mentioned how much you hated bunnies gave me an idea. I hope you like the surprises I left.
Dawn: (Biting his hand.) Anya I'm fine. (Not wanting to worry Anya. To the vamp.) You are so sick and twisted. And stop calling me miss muppet.
Syica: Dawn, then is it? I think I like it my way.
Anya: Delivery boy, you open this door right now. (She starts loudly banging again.) I shall break this door down if I have to. I know where they keep the weapons around this house.
Syica: (Turning to respond to the door again.) You forgot to say please. (He vamps out.)
Dawn: (Sees her opportunity, while he's talking to Anya. Reaches under her pillow and pulls out a couple of snuggle toys.)
Syica: (Stepping away from her at last.) I have never been partial to stakes and crosses. Funny that you should keep both under your pillow.
Dawn: My sister's a slayer. Married to a vamp. My former house resident's were witches, and Anya is an ex vengeance demon. Where exactly is your surprise in all this?
Syica: I stand corrected. I am surprised that's all you keep tucked under you pillow. I guess this is where, we bit adieu, less you want to dance right now?
Dawn: (Rises to her feet, objects still in hand. She slowly gets off the bed, away from him and goes towards the door. Unlocks it.)
Anya: (Anya forces the door at that exact moment and they both go flying. The cross falls from Dawns hand.) The golden light in the hallway, steals over the mystery of the moonlight in the room.) Hey you're not a delivery boy. You're a vampire!
Syica: (While they were distracted flying into each other. He could see the cross flying from Dawn's hand. He hits Anya with the door, she falls to the floor slightly stunned, but conscious, then he takes Dawn into a backwards choke hold.) You forgot to answer my question. (He sounds out each word into her ear. He does it slowly, sending shivers and something else down her spine.) How. About. That. DANCE?
Dawn: (She can feel that strange feeling coming over her. She response without even thinking about it, and without any words. She smashes her elbow into his side, and flips him over her head.) I'm kinda busy right now, but I'm sure my card will free in a couple weeks, guess you'll have to wait your turn like all the other guys.
Syica: (Getting to his feet.) I'm not really good with patience, and you keep putting me off. Is it something about my approach maybe? (He gives her a double combination punch.)
Dawn: That or your aftershave. (She kicks him, across her room, and he goes flying into her selves.) Great, you know how upset my sister is going to be about that shelf? There goes the matching pants for the shirt I just got tonight.
Syica: Tell me it's as cute as the number you have on now.
Dawn: (Finally remembering the tank top, and the shorts she wore to bed. Blushing a little bit.) I just think you are still being way too forward with this whole dance thing.
Anya: (Seeing something out of the corner of her eye, she involuntarily screams, as it climbs it's way on to her. She is still on the floor, and feeling stunned.) Shoe fluffster shoe.
Syica: (He and Dawn both turned distracted by the scream. He recovers first. Hits Dawn back over towards Anya.) Perhaps another time. (He makes his escape threw the window.)
Dawn: (Rushes over to help Anya) Hey are you ok. (She takes the bunny off Anya's lap.)
Anya: He is pure evil. Only someone evil would bring bunnies into someone's house like this. Does Buffy know you know the vampire delivery boy. Cause she just would never approve, and does she know you fight like that?
Dawn: I haven't told her yet.
Anya: Cause she would never approve of you dancing with a vampire. Getting all sweaty.
Dawn: I don't mean about that. Buffy does so know about him, what there is to know. I mean there's nothing to know, about us I mean. I don't know what I mean. But no she does not know I fight like that and she's not going to.
Anya: Ah so you have not told your sister.
Dawn: And I'm not going to right away. And you can't either, but you can do me a favor. Since you know now. Can me and Spike use your training room a couple nights a week so I can practice training. I want to be able to handle myself.
Anya: Oh, so Spike knows. Does anyone else know?
Dawn: Just you, Spike and Giles.
Anya: Fine I won't tell Buffy, but I can't keep something like this from Xander. Can I tell Xander?
Dawn: You're not even speaking to Xander. As long as no one, and I mean no one tells Buffy. I want to tell her, but not just yet.
Anya: So what are we gonna call you. Slayer Dawn, Dawn the Slayer, Dawn the Slayer sister, of Buffy the vampire Slayer?
Dawn: How about Dawn, the bunny releaser, if Anya doesn't stop with the quirky name titles?
Anya: Anya's stopping now. Go Dawn. Go you, go slay those bunnies. (She smiles.)
Dawn: (Laughs and rolls her eyes as she goes to gather up the bunnies.)
They don't go back to bed. They gather a couple of weapons, holy water, stakes and crosses and wait for the dawn to arrive in the living room. When they are sure no more unexpected visitors will arrive. They know Buffy and Spike have to be told, but they let them have the night for their reunion.
Back at the crypt. Early morning slowly creeps in. Buffy awakes felling refreshed, happy, and content. She watches Spike sleep. He looks like he's dreaming. She wonders dreams may come to one, who has shuffled off this mortal coil.
Spike: (He is dreaming of Buffy. He sees Dawn and Buffy playing outside. They are playing kick ball. The ball falls away into the gutter, Buffy goes to get it and instead retrieves a can. This is as good a game as any other she says and starts to play with the can. She plays kick the can all the way home, as Dawn watches in the distance. Then they are at a fast food chain, and Buffy has just arrived she punches the clock, and the manger says in an annoying over voice now you're on the clock again missy. He then rattles on about, perseverance dedication, and points to his 10 year button, then another manager to a 5 year button, and they tell her she's should work towards that as a goal. Then she stuck behind the counter, her brain is being drained by this monster, that looks like an enlarged version of the monster from aliens. Then Spike arrives trying to remove her from where she is not happy. He tells her the place will kill her but she's reluctant to go, and chooses to stay. He tells her he's her slave, he'll do anything to make her happy. Anything she asks. Then he's back at the house, he hugs Dawn and says he's going to the store for some milk, and smokes then he walks outside into the sunlight happy and content, smiling. Then he dreams his earlobe is being nibbled on by a kitten, and wakes up to find he's half right.) Kitten?
Buffy: (Stretches lazily against him. Smiles.) That's a new one, don't think you've called me that before. (Goes back to his earlobe.) I think I like it though. You looked so peaceful dreaming. But I couldn't resist.
Spike: I was peaceful in the dream I had. Then this naughty kitten woke me up, and oh I think someone needs a good spanking. (Feels her roving hands on his body.)
Buffy: Kitten just wants to play. (Gives him her saucy, seductive look.)
Spike: Vixen.
Buffy: Comparing me to reindeers now? That has to be bad for a girls ego.
Spike: You know that's not the kind I meant.
Buffy: Well what kind did you mean? (Fully knowing , she pouts her lip.)
Spike: Why don't you come here and I'll show you.
They have some more early morning play and then get ready to make their way back to the house.
Back at the Summers house. Early morning the door bell rings.
Dawn: (Her and Anya have fallen asleep on the coach.) I'll get it. (She goes to the door. Looks threw the glass and throws the door open.) Tara, it's you. (She gives her a hug, and pulls her in.) Me and Anya just had the worst night. There was a vamp, and he brought bunnies in and he wanted to bit me, and I mean dance with me, and I mean kill me. I don't know what. But I was cool. I was all like, oh yeah. He's the one from the wedding. You haven't stopped by since then. (Dawn let's it all out in a flurry of information.)
Tara: Whow Dawnie. It's great to see. I sorry I haven't stopped by. What's this about a vampire? Where are Buffy and Spike?
Dawn: Oh it's just me and Anya. Spike and Buffy spent last night back at the crypt.
Tara: So they made up?
Dawn: (Dawn sounds happy.) Yep. They sure did. But then this vamp got into the house.
Tara: How did he get in?
Anya: (Anya who has woken up makes her way over.) Oh it was me. I let him in. He had groceries.
Tara: You let a vampire in because he had groceries?
Anya: No I let him in cause they were free. (Sees Tara still looking at her.) Oh and I didn't know he was a vampire, else I would have just had him hand the groceries over the threshold. (She smiles in that oh so practical way of hers.) How did you know we needed you here?
Tara: I didn't. I just came by to see Dawn and visit Buffy and Spike.
Anya: That's awfully nice. But what we really need is for you to whip up some of that hokus pokus you do and de-invite the vamp, I invited in. So he doesn't kill us all in our sleep. Or let more vamps in or worst let more bunnies in. That was the worst part the bunnies. Darn little flufsters. Don't know how I can go back to the room. The sight of their hoppy little feet, and titchy little noses are scared into my mind for good.
Tara: Well why don't we go to the Magic Box and get some supplies. Dawney and I can catch up. While you calm down about the bunnies.
Anya: It's not funny. No one understands. They are evil little creatures. They cause all sorts of disease and destruction. Look at what they do to cabbage patches. And why do they eat so many carrotts?
Dawn: (She and Tara. Just shake their heads.) I think we should get dressed and go.
They all go to the Magic Box for supplies. Then head back to the house. Tara and Dawn stop for ice cream and some girl talk.
Anya: (Entering the house. She looks around to see if there are any more bunnies. She has the creepiest feeling.) As she enters the house, she sees the light from the answering machine is on. She plays the messages. The first one is from Carol at the museum. She says she wants to talk to Buffy about a strange item she noticed from a sales receipt over a year ago. She leaves a number. Anya quickly skips past this message. The next one is from Xander. He's calling ...to see how Buffy and Dawn are doing. He has not left a message for Anya. She gets upset and erases the messages.) Oh shoot. I erased the message from that Carol somebody. Oh but I still remember the number. (She writes call Carol on a piece of yellow sticky, and puts it on the fridge.) Damn him. (She picks up the phone, and calls him. Tells him about the vampire and the bunnies and how awful it was. He says he'll be right over.)
A few minutes later. Tara and Dawn arrive back at the house. She has filled Tara in on her powers, and about the vampire that wants to dance with her.
Dawn: I haven't told Buffy yet.
Tara: But that's great. Why haven't you told her.
Dawn: I just think it's going to be all weird and stuff.
Tara: I think it great, having super Dawnie on our hands.
Dawn: See I knew you would say that. And I knew you would understand. It's good to have you back. Don't stay away so long next time.
Tara: I'm sorry about that. It's just I've been keeping busy. But I always have time for you. Just like today. How bout I teach you to do the de-invite spell, and you help me rid the house of vampires.
Dawn: Sounds great. I would love to help you do a spell.
Tara: Just remember. Magic always has to be used very responsibly. But in this case it's for a good cause. So it's ok.
Anya: Coming in from the kitchen. With baseball bat in hand.) What took you two so long? I was here by myself. I could have been attacked at any moment. I swear I saw one of those little fluffster hiding behind the coach. Waiting to jump out at me at any moment. That's why I have this. (Points to her bat.)
Dawn: Anya. We had a vampire in our house last night. All bunnies do is hop around.
Anya: That's what you think. They have those scratchy toes. And those large teeth.
Suddenly the door bell rings again. This time it's Xander. He comes right in.
Xander: (He goes over straight to Anya.) Baby are you ok? I came straight over.
Anya: NO. I'm not ok it was awful. I woke up with bunnies all over my room and then one of them tried to climb on me. (She puts this in as an after thought.) Oh yeah and there was this vampire that wanted to bite Dawn. He's evil, cause he brought bunnies into the house. Anyone who'd use bunnies as a weapon has to be evil.
Xander: It's ok. I'm here now. Your Xan-man is here. (He takes her into his arms.)
Anya: I was so scared. Good thing Dawn was here to protect me. She gathered all the bunnies, and put them downstairs in the basement. The pest control department is going to come and get them later.
Dawn: I said pet control. You were suppose to call pet control. I don't want them gassed. I want them to go to the pet store. Where they can be sold to nice families.
Anya: Pet control, pest control. What's the difference they are bunnies. (Turns to Xander.) I don't think I can spend another night in that room. The thought of them all over everything.
Xander: There there. I only called and left the message, cause I really wanted to know how you were doing. I was hoping you would pick up. I've been missing you something terrible. I baked today. Those little pies you love so much. An, won't you come home. Xan-man misses his little love muffin something awful.
Anya: And I've been missing you. Xander? (She looks him in the eye.)
Xander: Yes sweetie.
Anya: Take me home right now. And have wild, outrageous comforting sex with me. I've missed you sooo much.
Xander: Ah (Looks over at Tara and Dawn. Looks at Anya.) You two gonna be ok here?
Tara: (Tara and Dawn look at each other. Stand with their arms crossed. In unison) Go!
Anya: Tell Buffy thanks for everything. (As she drags Xander out the door.)
Dawn: Those two.
Tara: I know.
Dawn: (She laughs.) Well looks like things are getting back to normal. That's two for three. (She looks over at Tara.) So how are things going on the Willow front?
Tara: That's still a really touchy topic Dawn. We're friends, but sometimes adults even when they care about each other. Just can't work things out.
Dawn: But you haven't completely given up on forgiving her?
Tara: She's always going to be in here. (She points to her heart.) I still love her, but it's hard to forget what she did. Well it almost wasn't hard to forget. She played with my mind. First my family, then Glory, and now Willow. I trusted her.
Dawn: But she getting better. (Tara looks at her.) For real this time. She moved into her own apartment.
Tara: I know Dawnie. We'll see how things go. (Gathers some stuff.) Now shall we go about de-inviting that vamp?
Dawn: Sounds good to me. If I never see him again it will be too soon.
Back at the apartment of Xander and Anya. A couple of hours have passed.
Anya: Xander. That was amazing. Can we do that all over again?
Xander: Again? That's going on our third time here. Some of us need a little more time between make up session here. Little Xan is kinda tired.
Anya: Bet. I could make him stand up and pay attention. (She smiles as her hands start to roam his body.)
Xander: As much as I would like that, again. We still need to talk Anya. This break up has been crazy. I never want to argue like that again.
Anya: Neither do I. But you can't put my life on hold like that and not expect me to get upset.
Xander: An, if that's what you think I've been doing I'm sorry. It's not what I intended. I've just been letting us have time till I could figure this out.
Anya: Well did you. This unsurity of when we are going to get married, if we are, is just driving me crazy.
Xander: I really get that now. I think I've come to a decision. He gets his pants on. (He moves her to the side of the bed, with the sheet wrapped around her. He kneels before her.) Anya I love you. You're the best thing that's happened to me. I do want to spend my life with you, but I am not ready to get married. I'm sorry. I should have realized this before I ever dragged you to the alter, and called off the wedding in front of your friends and mine. That was wrong of me. So I ask you Anya will you do me the honour of not becoming my wife, not fighting with me any more and not driving each other crazy? I love how we are. I love how things are. Right now. I love you. But marriage is just not right for me, and I don't want to keep you waiting. It's not fair. I don't want to do this to you, or to us. I've seen how crazy this gets you, and I know I'm wrong to keep you holding on like this.
Anya: That's the smartest thing you have said all day, Xander Lavall Harris. I accept. No more fighting, no more crazy. I like us, and if you are not up for marriage, then I'm ok with that for now. I just don't want to be apart any more, I missed you. I get all antsy and crazier than usual when we are not together. I want to be with you. (She thinks for a second.) I'm still keeping my ring though right?
Xander: Oh yeah right. (Not even willing to touch that topic.) I umm think I can fill your earlier request now if you're still up for..
Anya: (Kisses him.) Shut up Xander. (Takes him back to the bed with her. They make love a few more times.)
Back at the Summers house. Spike and Buffy have finally made their way over to the house. They are in the kitchen with Dawn and Tara.
Spike: Should have gone after him at the wedding. Sorry we weren't there bit.
Dawn: I handled it. (Her Spike and Tara share a secretive look, that Buffy is unaware of.)
Buffy: So one more dusted vamp. I'm really sorry, I should have asked more questions yesterday when Anya told me about the delivery guy and the groceries. (She goes to get some ice cream from the fridge. She sees the yellow sticky saying call Carol. Thinks it's a message for Dawn.) We're almost out of cookie dough.
Dawn: I want to get some sprinkles. (She passes the fridge to go to the cupboard, sees the yellow sticky and thinks it's a message for Buffy.) Hey we're out of sprinkles. (She goes to sit down upset.) You know what really gets me. He was in my room. Probably for hours. He said I snore. (She sounds pained.) Then he said I was skinny. I mean what does he want and why me? He keeps coming after me. Guess some vamps just like that kind of thing. I beat him down at the party and he opens the Dawn fan club.
Tara: It's going to be ok Dawnie. We won't let him do anything to hurt you.
Dawn: Then he said my pj's were cute. (She goes to the fridge to get some whipped cream for the ice cream.) We're out of whipped cream. Why are we always out of whipped cream? (She sounds really upset.) He put bunnies in Anya's room.
Buffy: (Her and Spike exchange a brief guilty look about the whip cream.)
Dawn: He's probably watching the house right now. He knew you two were out. Means he's probably been spying on me. How creepy is that? Then he keeps calling me little miss muppet. What's up with that?
Spike: I get that your upset bit. We'll handle this. And well get more whip cream from the store. He's as good as dusted.
Dawn: Good I hope so. (She takes her ice cream and goes upstairs still upset. Not sure why she is that upset.)
Buffy: He's really got her riled up. Do you think it's serious.
Spike: Hope not. You'd never approve.
Buffy: What?
Spike: Oh I just mean. Dawn being all upset. You'd never approve.
Just then the front door rings again. It's Willow. She walks over to the kitchen.
Spike: Hello Red. How's it going?
Willow: (Coming fully into the kitchen, behind Buffy.) Good. And you? Oh Tara you're here. (She is really happy to see her.)
Tara: Willow. Good to see you. (They look at each other. It's still painful.)
Buffy: So what brings you by Willow?
Willow: Well I got a message from Xander saying he couldn't meet up with me later, cause you have vampires at your house and bunnies? It was really garbled. He was in a hurry sounded like.
Buffy: Yeah. I left Anya alone with Dawn and a vampire got into the house. Left bunnies in Anya's room.
Willow: Who let him in?
Spike: (He, Tara and Buffy in unison.) Anya.
Willow: Yep. That was probably your first mistake. So he left bunnies in Anya's room. I almost like this vamp.
Tara: He did go after Dawn. But her and Anya chased him out of the house. I think he came to scare them, more than to bite them. He was in the house for hours before they realized he was there.
Willow: Vamps stalking our houses. Haven't had that for a while. (Remembers all the fun they had with Angelus.) So what are we going to do about it?
Tara: Well me and Dawn spent the morning doing a de-invite spell. So that should stop him from coming back. But he's still out there.
Willow: (Feels a twinge of jealousy cause she can't do spells with Tara anymore.)
Buffy: She's coming straight home from school. Till he's stopped.
Spike: Couple rounds of kitten poker. I'll know enough bout this vamp. Then he's dust.
Tara: Kitten poker?
Spike: Yeah it's a demon thing. But it's a great way to gather information. I'll stop by after work tonight. Stop in for a couple rounds, see what I shake up.
Willow: I really can't stay too long. I have to pick up a couple of things. (She goes down to the basement to get her boxes. Comes back upstairs.) Do you know you have bunnies down there?
Buffy: Yeah we're waiting for pest control to come and pick them up.
Willow: Don't you mean pet control?
Buffy: Anya's the one who called. I'm sure I mean pest control.
Willow: Oh don't say that. I think I would like one of those bunnies for my place. Seeing as how Anya hates them so much. I can almost be sure of Xander visits, minus Anya. I think I will take two. Plus they're so cute and fluffy.
Buffy: But how are you going to carry them and your boxes?
Willow: Guess I could make two trips.
Tara: I was just going to get going. If you want to put the bunnies in something. I can help you carry your stuff.
Willow: That sounds great.
They gather the bunnies. Then they head to Willow apartment.
Tara: (Drops the box off at Willow's.) Well. I have have to get going now.
Willow: Aren't you even going to come in? See my apartment. (Willow really sounds hurt.)
Tara: I don't have a lot of time Willow. (She sounds anxious to leave.)
Willow: None of us do. That's why I can't believe you won't forgive me. Tara I'm sorry. I'm sorry for what I did to you. (So sounds really genuine.)
Tara: Are you? Are you sorry or are you sorry that you got caught?
Willow: I'm sorry about everything. I sorry. I was addicted. It had me. I couldn't think about anything else. Will you at least come in for a second. I don't want to do this in the hallway. (Tara comes in.)
Tara: Fine but I don't have long. I'm can't stay.
Willow: I just want a chance to beg your forgiveness. Please. (Tara goes to have a seat on the sofa in the room.)
Tara: What you did hurt me. I trusted you. You betrayed me. And it's worst than if anyone else betrayed me, because I love and trusted you.
Willow: (She stoops on the floor at Tara's feet.) Please baby I need you. You don't know how sorry I'm. I sorry I hurt you.
Tara: (Starting to tear up, but trying to hold it together.) You violated me. I trusted you. And after the first time, you promised you wouldn't do it again, and you did. You didn't even think twice about it. You just erased by memory. After all that happened with Glory. You know how afraid I am of that. Do I mean so little to you that you could do that to me? To have you do it was just unforgivable.
Willow: (Crying openly on Tara's lap now.) I was sick then. I didn't... I couldn't control it. Magic just seemed like this quick fix for everything. It was because you meant everything to me. I thought I could have it all. I would have done anything to keep you with me. You mean everything. I'm nothing without you. You complete me the way you said I complete you. I need you to forgive me.
Tara: (Crying herself now.) I need time Willow. We can't just rush back into this. It would be fair to either of us.
Willow: Who's talking about rushing. All I want is another chance, to make it up to you. To have you forgive me. I know I can do this. Please just give me a chance.
Tara: (Strokes her hair. She's missed the touch and feel of it.) I missed you.
Willow: (Looking up into her eyes.) I missed you too.
Tara: (Willow gets off the floor and they embrace. They are both crying.) We are not going to rush this. Not till I know I can trust you. But I'm willing to work thru this, if you promise me. You will never do that to me again. You're everything to me. And I can't have you doing this to me. I can't loose me like that again.
Willow: I promise. (She caresses her face. They spend the rest of the afternoon catching up, holding each other on the coach. Naming the bunnies.)
Later that evening. Everyone is at the Summers house. Xander and Anya have stopped by to check on Dawn, and to get Anya's bags. Willow and Tara have also come back to see how Dawn is doing. They are all gathered in the living room. Buffy sits with Spike on his lap. Anya and Xander sit together on the sofa. And Willow and Tara are together on the couch holding hands.
Spike: Niblet's doing better. But till this creep is gone. She's going to be all gittery. I'm going to see if I can fit in a round of poker before and after work.
Xander: Dawn's in trouble and your idea of helping is to go play poker? I'd thinking smashing skulls, bashing heads and kicking some vamp ass would be more appropriate.
Buffy: It's a vamp thing. Playing poker to get information. Apparently you get more out of their mouths than gaping holes in their corpses.
Xander: Where'd you get that from?
Buffy: Someone very smart taught me that. (She gives Spike a little kiss on the mouth.)
Anya: Yeah Xander. Demon poker for information exchange is a vital resource in some communities. More important than even lets say using demons as substitute meat product. Which I am still fully against by the way. (She smiles in that way.)
Xander: Guess that's why I love you babe. Those strong moral fibers you have. No demon meat substitute in our house.
Buffy: (She looks around.) So looks like everything is back to normal. Anya I'm so glad you and Xander worked things out. We should really get you packed up.
Anya: Yeah but I'm not going back to that room by myself.
Willow: Oh I'll help you get packed. I'll be more than happy to help. Then you can hear about my new pets I got. (Her and Tara exchange an amused look.)
Buffy: If we all do it now. I'm sure we could get it done.
The two go upstairs to help Anya get her stuff.
Buffy: (As they pack.) So Will, looks like you and Tara made up.
Willow: We're working on it. Going to take it kind of slow, but for once it looks like I won't be the only one not getting spanked for a change.
Anya: Looks like I don't have to ask how things went with you and Spike.
Buffy: We made up. A few times. (She smiles.) You should see what he got me.
Willow: Do tell.
Anya: Yeah we want all the Spiffy details. Then you can hear about me and Xander.
Willow: (Rolls eyes.) We can hear about that anytime. I want to hear everything about Buffy.
Buffy: You know I can't talk about everything. (She says it in that, wishing she could way.)
Willow: But if you could? (Her and Anya both look expectantly at Buffy.)
Buffy: Well if I could. (She goes on to tell them a slightly edited version of her evening and morning with Spike)
Down stairs. Spike Tara and Xander talk about their afternoons.
Spike: So you and your birds looked all nice and made up.
Xander: Yeah nothing says loving like when you're getting your woman's woving.
Tara: (Her and Spike both look at Xander.)
Xander: What couldn't think of a word that rhymed with loving.
Tara: Willow and I are talking things slow. But we are back together. (She sounds cautious but happy.) So you and Buffy seem to be back together too.
Spike: Yeah we've been having a make up marathon. Next round should be up soon.
Xander: Yeah that sounds bout right. Me and Anya are on an all you can spank fest, and Xander has been real bad boy. (He zones out for a second.)
Spike: (He and Tara just look at Xander.)
Then Anya, Willow and Tara come downstairs.
Anya: Xander and I have to go now. (She pulls Xander off the coach.) We have to go to the store. We have to pick up some whip cream. See ya later everyone. (She drags Xander out the door.)
Xander: Ah. Yeah later. (He gets pulled out the door by Anya.)
Tara: What's her problem?
Willow: Don't know but ah we should probably get going too. (She gives Tara a certain look.)
Tara: Maybe we should get going. It's late Buffy, Spike guess we'll see ya later. Give Dawnie our best.
Willow: Yeah. And thanks again for everything. Tara baby think we could stop by the store? Couple things I wanna pick up.
They also leave a little hurried.
Spike: What was that all about? Cleared the whole room in about two minutes.
Buffy: Don't know. We just had some innocent girl talk upstairs. (She smirks.)
Spike: Yeah Xander told me about your innocent girl chats.
Buffy: Oh. Well then in that case you know what I'm thinking. Ah we got any more whipped cream in our fridge?
Spike: Bought a few bottles this afternoon. Don't think we'll be running out for awhile.
Buffy: We could try. (Takes him suggestively back up the stairs. The marathon continues.)
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