[B] Sorry about the delay. I wanted to post this on Friday, but was unable to. Then the file got corrupted, and I had to start over. Luckily I had most of it saved to my home computer. Well, as it would be, I started rewriting things, and now, it's too long. So I've broken it up into 2 chapters. The 2nd chapter isn't long enough to stand on its own, so I've got to add to it. Don't worry. Wednesday, it'll be ready. If you want me to email you with updates, please let me know. I may remove this from ff.net. I don't know if I want to abandon you guys. You were the first to appreciate this story and I appreciate your continued support. So, let me know. The end is near. Probably 5 more chapter, 8 at the most. Thanks, again! Witchiepoo! [/B]



Giles stood in the doorway, studying Buffy. She seemed in awe of the room. "Did we...um overdo it?" He asked, startling her.

"No, the room is perfect. More than perfect. She'll love it." Buffy said, running her hand reverently over the crib. "It's just so final. You know?"

Giles pushed off and walked into the room, gathering Buffy in his arms. So tiny and yet so powerful. So much a woman, but still in some ways a child. "Yes, I do. This room certifies you as being an adult. Welcome to the club."

"Thanks. I'll be sure to fill out all the necessary paperwork so I can get my membership card." She joked. "It's a little scary."

Giles nodded, understanding how unusual the situation was for her. "You'll be a wife and a mother all before the age of 22. That's a huge step for anyone, but especially you. You're the Slayer."

Giles lifted her chin. "But like with all things, you'll handle them with a grace and strength, which still to this day, surprises me. You'll be fine." He said proudly.

Buffy sniffed, her index finger pressed to her nose to stem the tears. "I'm going to be a mother, Giles." She said incredulously. "This little girl is going to call me Mom, and Spike, Dad." She cried, but they were happy tears. "And you, Grandpa Giles."

I'm too young to be anyone's grandfather. But the thought of a little girl with Buffy's smile, calling him grandpa, made his heart swell and his chest puff up. "Grandpa Giles. I like that."


"So, did you get a chance to go on the cemetery tour while you were there?" Anya asked Spike, as she nibbled on baby carrots and dip.

"They see cemeteries every night, Anya. Why would they want to see the same thing in New Orleans?" Xander commented as he walked into the dining room.

The whelp is just plain stupid when it comes to this bird. Can't seem to stop putting his foot in his mouth. Spike didn't need this. Not on his first night back home.

"We took an informal tour, Anya." He quickly answered, effectively preventing Anya's tirade. "A couple of vamps tried to jump us one night as we were coming back to the Banana Court. Buffy felt the need to work out some kinks before we hit the sack." Spike said with a leer, which was meant to make Xander uncomfortable, which it did.

"Too much information, Spike. Aren't you guys suppose to stop that after a certain time?"

"Sex or patrolling?" Spike asked innocently, though he couldn't resist running his tongue over his lip as he said it.

"They can do it up to the birth of the baby, Xander." Anya added, enjoying the war for dominance on Xander's face. He was either getting ready to puke or go up in flames. Spike couldn't decide which would make him happier.

Willow turned and saw the look of joy on Spike and Anya's faces, and decided they'd had enough time to bait and torture Xander. She swooped in, pulling him away from them. Spike shrugged off the glare she sent him. He started it. He wanted to tell her.

Anya huffed, and daintily stomped her foot. "Jerk!"

"So, how are things with Rupert? Did you take my advice?" Spike whispered. Anya's face lit up.

"Yes, I did. We have shared many kisses, and dinners while you were gone. Everybody knows except Buffy and Xander." She said, looking up the stairs.

Spike touched her shoulder. "Buffy will be fine, Pet. You don't have to worry about her causing you any problems. What about Red? I assume she didn't take the news as well as Dawn and Tara. How did they find out anyway?"

Anya shrugged. "They noticed things were different between us. We've been very careful. Too careful."

"Sneaking around can be fun, and a bit degrading all at the same time." Spike said, knowing from personal experience the toll it could take.

"I just want to be happy, Spike. Is that too much to ask?"

"No, it isn't." The fact he was rooting for her, didn't surprise Spike. It was the fact he was rooting for Giles as well. The Watcher had earned his respect, but he actually felt some affection for the codger. When had that happened? Spike grinned. Probably when he didn't object to Buffy marrying me.


Xander sat with Tara in the living room, watching Anya out the corner of his eye. He felt like kicking himself in the ass. She had been happy earlier, talking to Spike. And what did he do? He went over there and before he could stop himself, he'd managed to insult her again. At this rate, she forgive him by the time he was Bitty was in high school. Why couldn't they have a simple conversation with each other, without her being on the defensive, and without him managing to snap at her for something? He was just so desperate to get back some small portion of what they had, but Anya seemed just as determined to keep him at arms' length.

Tara hated the tension she sensed in Xander. He was like a coiled snake. He kept his emotions pretty much in check, but it was a cauldron waiting to boil over. She wondered what would be the spark to set him off. He watched Anya with barely concealed longing. He might have insisted to Willow that he would be alright if he and Anya never got back together, Tara doubted the validity of that sentiment. Xander saw all his friends back with the ones they loved. Yet, Anya couldn't, more like wouldn't forgive him for walking out on her. And he didn't even know about Anya and Giles.


Willow sat with Buffy on the steps, watching Buffy stare at Spike. "We can leave if the two of you want to continue your honeymoon." She joked.

Buffy blushed. "Ah, no. I'm sorry. It's still a shocker to know we're married and pregnant to boot."

"Really. You seemed to have settled into the wife role quite easily." Willow commented.

"It's easy to be a wife, when your husband worships the ground you walk on." Buffy didn't say it smugly, just with a knowledge that it was true. Spike loved her, more than any man ever had or would. She knew she'd won the lottery with him. "Now, we need to get Xander and Giles straightened out, and I'll be happy."

Willow's eyes bulged. "Xander? Giles? Straightened out, how?" How did she find out so soon?

"Call me cupid, but I want all of us to be happy. You and Tara are giddy. Me and Spike are giddy. Dawn's living vicariously off of our giddiness. That leaves those three." She said.

If they were into threesomes, then everyone would be happy. But they weren't, and this was not going to be pretty when it all came out. Things would be great if Giles went home or Anya moved away. Shame on you, Willow Rosenberg. Her mind chided. She sighed, knowing she didn't want any of those things to happen. But there was Xander.

"Maybe, Anya and Xander can come to some truce. I'd like to see us all remain friends. I'd miss Anya if she wasn't part of the group." Buffy continued, oblivious to Willow's dilemma.

"I wish they would too. But to quote Tara, Anya was a vengence demon. Holding a grudge comes naturally." Willow giggled.

"Yeah. Okay. Scratch that. Let's concentrate on Giles. He hasn't dated since Jenny. Though, I think he may be seeing Olivia again." Willow groaned, and put her head in her hands. I should tell her. I should. Giles didn't say anything about not telling Buffy.

"Buffy, I'm going to escort Anya home. I'll see you in the morning." Giles said, kissing her lightly on the temple. "It's good to have you home."

Willow grabbed the banister to prevent herself from sliding down the stairs. There goes that opportunity. Good thing, too. She really didn't want to ruin Buffy's homecoming.

Buffy waited for the but, but it never came. Oh, she would say it. "But we still need to talk about the Council and Travers' men." Buffy added, amused by the shocked look on Giles' face. "I know Giles. Thanks for giving us the night off."

Giles held up the parchment, and grinned. Oh, goody for Giles, he had research to do. That should keep him happy. "I should have something for you tomorrow when we meet. Get some rest. The both of you." He said, indicating Spike as well.


"We're going to go, too. Do you need anything before we go?" Tara asked. She wanted to talk to Buffy, but that would have to wait till there was a more quiet time.

"You're leaving. I wanted to talk to you."

"I know. We'll talk tomorrow. Promise you." Tara's eyes held Buffy's. She smiled and bent to give Buffy a hug.

"We can talk about Martine tomorrow." She whispered in her ear.

"You're amazing. You know that, right?" Buffy said, smiling broadly. What would she do without Tara?

"Night, Buffster. See ya tomorrow." Xander hugged her, easing up when he heard a growl behind his back. "I made Spike jealous. Yay, me!" He said, snickering with Buffy.

"Night, Dawnie. Bye, Buffy. I'll call you in the morning." Willow hugged and kissed Buffy and Dawn goodnight. She surprise Spike by hugging him too. "Night, Spike."

"Night, Red. And thanks." He said, gruffily, knowing it hadn't been easy to give up her place in the house.

"You're welcome. You just take good care of them." She said, exiting the house. She wrapped her arm around Tara's waist as they walked down the stairs. Spike stared at them, before closing the door.


"Did you tell Giles you needed to speak to him?" Buffy asked, once Spike had the house locked up.

"Yes, I did." Spike said, walking behind her as they went up the stairs.

Buffy stopped him, staring into his face. "Is there something going on I should know about?"

There were several answers to that question. Yes, Buffy. Your Watcher is dating your best friend's ex, and your husband wants to have the chip, which keeps him from killing humans, out of his head. Yep, Buffy, there's something going on. Spike didn't want to have this conversation. Not now, anyway.

"No, just guy stuff. Nothing for you to worry about." Spike rubbed his hand over her stomach.

"I love you." Buffy said, stroking his hair.

"I love you, too."

"Buffy, come here, I want to show you want I found in the attic." Dawn called from the nursery.

Spike watched her go. He wanted to tell her about the chip, but there was still a tiny sliver of fear inside him, that she would reject him or keep him from the baby if he was no longer harnessed. He knew it was absolutely ridiculous to think that way. Buffy loved him. If she didn't, they would have a baby to worry about. And he worried. That night at Marie's convinced him, he needed to change. He had to change to be the man Buffy deserved. He wanted the chip out. He wanted to be the vamp he was before the Initiative. He wanted to be able to protect him family from all threats.


Dawn handed Buffy the faded picture. He can't see this. He can't see this. Buffy narrowed her eyes, throwing daggers at her. "I can't believe you found these. I thought I'd hidden them."

"Guess not. Have that one. I've got plenty more." Dawn smiled. She had Buffy right where she wanted her. Blackmail was a beautiful thing.

"You won't show these to him. I won't let you."

"I want the premium package. We can afford it."

"You're blackmailing me for cable." Buffy stated, still not believing the levels Dawn would stoop to get what she wanted.

"Better cable." Dawn informed her, crossing her arms over her chest. "Order it tomorrow or these go to Spike."

Was that a threat? Buffy's brow rose at that. She decided to call the little schemer's bluff. "You wouldn't. We're blood." Buffy protested.

Dawn shrugged. "Yes, we are, but this is all about MTV and InStyle." Spike stopped in the hall, listening to the conversation inside.

"He already knows the truth, Dawn. He's my husband." Buffy pointed out, hoping Dawn didn't realize how Spike knew.

"He's never seen you totally brunette, Buffy. I think he'd be real interested." Buffy gritted her teeth.

"Fine. I'll order the super dooper, every single channel known to man cable for you. Now, hand over those pictures." Buffy demanded, holding her hand out. Dawn handed the bundle over, kissing Buffy lightly on the cheek.

"Thanks, Buff." Spike leaned against the door, shaking his head at her "negotiating skills". Dawn pecked him on the cheek, sliding a photo to him as she passed.

"You've created a monster." Buffy remarked to him. She turned, smiling as Spike held the photo up.

"Nice hair, luv. You do realize there is zero chance of us having a blonde child. I guess Bitty will take up the long-standing Develin practice of dyeing her hair blonde." Buffy giggled, running her fingers through his curls.

Develin. I'm Buffy Summers-Develin. How weird is that? And her daughter would be a Develin, too. And somehow, in this crazy mixed-up world they inhabited, a man, dead for over a century and a woman, killed twice, would live on in the body of a small child. Buffy smiled broadly, holding Spike tightly.

"Yep. We'll start her early, so she'll be a pro by the time she gets to kindergarten."



Buffy sat in the middle of the bed, glancing around the room. Gone were all traces that Willow and Tara lived there. In fact, it seemed Joyce had returned. Dawn must have placed some of Joyce's things back in the room, like her crystal bowl, where she kept her rings at night. Her book of Sonnets, the one Spike gave her for her birthday the year she died. Little mementos of the woman who loved them all, and it made Buffy feel a little bit better about being in this room without her.
Spike shut the light off in the bathroom, and sat on the bed.

"Those look very nice on you." Buffy commented.

Spike rolled his eyes. He didn't mind sleeping on satin sheets, but wearing it was an entirely different cup of tea. "Thank you, but tell me again why I'm wearing these. It's not like Dawn doesn't know I sleep in the nude. Remember the bathroom incident."

Buffy giggled, and she swore Spike blushed. Yes, the bathroom incident. Her craving hot fudge and Graham crackers. Spike naked in the kitchen. Dawn getting up to go to the bathroom. The stairs. The screams. The yelps. The laughter. Well, on her part anyway. "I remember."

"And we have our own bathroom now." Spike protested lamely.

"And I still have mid-morning cravings, so for tonight, see how they feel. For me...." She batted her lashes, and smiled at him.

"Fine. I'll try them out, but don't blame me if you can't get to the goodies when you get an itch." Spike kissed her on the lips, bearing her back against the pillow.

"I don't have any problems getting what I want, Spike. Haven't you figured that out yet?" She said, nipping his chin with her teeth.

"Oh, I figured it out, alright."


I August 1st

I continue in my search for Martine. I take comfort in the fact there hasn't been a rise in demon activity since she left my care. I have debated telling the Council about her absence, her disappearance. My love for the child wars with my desire to do my duty by the Council. We are all bound by our duties, and as long as it appears that Martine continues to do hers, I cannot find fault with who she chooses to share her bed with.

August 8th

I met with a Learl demon tonight. He has information on Martine. There has been word of a young woman, who fights with the strength of ten men. A raven-haired beauty who appears only at night, battling those who would do harm to the citizens of that area. They call her the Raven for they know not who or what she is. I must travel to this place, to see for myself if it is my Slayer.


August 14

I have found Martine, and it is as was feared. She is with child. The child of a demon, but you would never know it. She has never been more beautiful. She literally glows with happiness. Henri is suspicious of my presence, but allows it, only because Martine is happy. They are in love. That is easy for me to see. There is no thrall evident, only a deep, abiding love.

I wish the Council could see them together. How he cares for her. Martine tells me she has been keeping her diary. She has not forgotten everything I taught her. She believes her life is the true way vampires and slayers are supposed to be. She is naïve. I've always known this, yet, I did not know her naiveté would lead her here. If I were to tell her about the prophecy, she would not believe me.

I must notify the Council. They will know what to do. I fear for her, my slayer, my daughter. /I


He was a glutton for punishment. Spike decided, closing Jayme's diary. This wasn't the type of thing he should read before heading to meet another Watcher. Tended to give credence to his worries. Jayme was the naïve one, not Martine. She knew the truth. She knew what had taken Spike several years to figure out. Slayers and vampires were the other's opposite, if that made any sense. It was almost as if they'd been separated at birth. It was weird, but he felt whole with Buffy with him.

Spike stared down at his sleeping wife, his eyes roaming over her sun-kissed skin. She was perfect, made more so by the swell of her belly. His child. Their child. Their little miracle. He had to protect them. Had to do everything in his power to make sure no harm befell them. Sliding out of bed, placing his pillow under Buffy's arm, he went to the bathroom. Giles was going to meet him at 9, so he'd best be going if he wanted to get there before Buffy awoke. He left a note, saying he needed to check on the treasure and would be back in time to go to the Magic Box. He looked in on his other girl, and found her snoring louder than a bulldozer, and smiled. What he was considering was for the good of his family. He just hoped the others saw it that way.



Giles sipped his coffee, speculating on what Spike wanted to talk about. He thought he might know, but he wanted to give Spike a chance to explain himself. He owed him that. He owed Buffy that, as well. He heard movement below, and wondered at the folly of waiting alone inside the crypt, accessible to any demon with half the sense to find it through the tunnels.

He let out the breath he'd been holding when he saw the familiar blonde curls appear through the hole. Giles watched Spike closely as he shuffled over to the refrigerator for his breakfast. Something was definitely weighing on the vamp's mind, that much was obvious. His stance held none of the swagger of old, but a weariness that shocked Giles.

"Spike, is everything alright between you and Buffy?"

"I'm taking good care of her, Rupe. I didn't think you'd start in on me so quickly. We've only been married a week." Spike slumped into his chair, and winced at his surly attitude. Great way to start this conversation.

"Spike, I'm not condemning you. I think you've taken great care of Buffy and Dawn. I'm concerned because, frankly, you look like shit. You've got the weight of the world on your shoulders, and you don't wear it well." Giles clapped him on the shoulder, and hopped up on the sarcophagus. He placed one foot up on the cold concrete and waited for Spike to tell him why they were here.

Spike leaned forward on his elbows, staring at his boots. There was no point in bullshitting around with the Watcher. He wouldn't appreciate it, and they didn't have time for it either. "I want to get the chip out or deactivated. I can't protect them like this. I'm helpless."

Giles set the cup down on the sepulcher, and regarded the man in front of him.

"I know you don't trust me. I haven't given you much reason in the past to, but they are my life, and I can't risk anything happening to them." Spike added.

"Have you discussed any of this with Buffy?" Giles said calmly. The steady tenor of his voice belying the automatic uneasiness in the pit of his stomach.

"No! Don't be daft. She's got enough to worry about. I wanted to get your opinion first." Spike stood up, pacing the short length of the crypt. "I couldn't live if something happened to one of my girls. I love them so much. And I know you still find that hard to believe... but I do."

Giles thought no such thing, but Spike wouldn't allow him to defend himself before he launched into another tirade. "I'm no good for her, for them if I can't fight the Council. They'll take her. They'll take my baby. That can't happen. She's... they're all I've got."

Giles wondered if the Council would reconsider their opinion of vampires if they saw the anguish on Spike's face, in his demeanor. Here was a man who loved his family and worried about their safety above his own. Here was a vampire bearing his soul to a Watcher, not concerned that he was putting his life in danger by expressing his desire to be unleashed.

"Spike... Spike." Giles placed his fingers between his lips and blew. Spike spun around, his vampire face on.

"Now, that I have your attention, please sit down and be quiet." Their eyes met and held each other's for a minute. Spike sat down heavily, his head in his hands.

"I will help you. Mainly, because you're right. You should have every means at your disposal to protect your family. Secondly, because you've earned my trust. I don't think for one moment you will attack and kill anyone. Not because the demon has been tamed, but because it would hurt Buffy. And you don't hurt Buffy, Spike. You love her more than I thought possible of any man or demon."

Spike jumped up, then fell back in his seat, horrified by the gesture he'd almost committed. He was actually going to hug Rupert. Englishman don't hug, much less Watchers and Vampires.

"Thank you, Giles."

Giles rolled his eyes. "Don't thank me yet. You still have to talk to Buffy, then to the rest of them. After that, we'll need to find someone reliable and trustworthy to remove the thing. We have a long road ahead of us." Giles finished.

"When haven't we, mate?"



Buffy kissed the pillow, scrunching her nose in disgust when she realized it wasn't cold and male, namely her husband. "Spike?" She called sleepily. Buffy sat up in bed, looking at the clock. 10 o'clock. Ah, unemployment was a blessing. She thought. Buffy laid back down, checking out their room. It still felt wrong somewhat to be in this room. This was Mom's room.

No, Buffy, it's yours. You're the mother now. Buffy turned startled by the words spoken in her mind.

"Mom?" Her voice cracked.

"Buffy, are you up?" Buffy heard Dawn say through the closed door. "Are you and Spike decent?"

Buffy frowned. "Dawn, come in. Spike's not here?" Don't panic, Buffy. He's probably in the basement.

"No, when I woke up the house was empty." Dawn stooped and picked up the note. "He went to the crypt to check on the Amara." She said, handing the note to Buffy.

"Oh, I must have been totally out of it, if I missed him getting out of bed." Buffy was disappointed he didn't wake her, but pushed that thought aside. He was doing what he did best. He took care of her, in spite of herself.

"Well, you were traveling all day yesterday, and then the coming home party. It's no wonder you slept so hard." Dawn sat on the bed, next to Buffy, who stroked her stomach.

"Bitty's hungry. Do we have any waffles? I could so go for waffles and honey and ketchup." Buffy said, her mouth watering at the thought of that delicious goodness.

"Eww! Buffy, that's gross." Dawn said, falling back on the bed, holding her stomach in mock agony.

"It's not. It's spicy. Mix in some crawfish and shrimp, umm. It melts in your mouth." Buffy said, laying down next to Dawn.

"More like it burns a hole through your stomach." Dawn giggled. "So, what do you want to do today? Veg? Shop? No school today, so I'm at your beck and call."



Spike flew in the door, breathing heavily. His talk with Giles had lasted longer than he'd planned. They went over what they knew about the chip. Spike admitted he'd sought Warren's help once he realized he could hit Buffy.

"We can start there. We have all of Warren's papers, so I'm sure they are in there. Once we know how it works, we can begin to figure out how to remove it without killing you." Giles commented.

"I'll tell Buffy and Dawn when I get home. If you don't see me later, you know I'm presently in residence inside the Hoover." Spike joked, but Giles could see this wasn't a baseless fear.

Spike couldn't honestly think Buffy would kill him. Save him from insecure vampires and hormonal slayers. "You saved her. She loves you. I wouldn't be helping you, if I didn't think this was in Buffy's best interest. I'd better get going. Anya will be put out if I don't get there to help her open."

Thanks for the pep talk, Rupert. "So, I see things with Demon Girl have moved beyond mere flirting?" Spike leaned against the sepulcher, crossing his arms over his chest. Giles sighed. So much for broody, introspective Spike. Cocky, irritationg Spike was back.

"Spike, do mind your own business. You are not to say anything to Buffy until I talk to her. And…Anya and I will tell Xander. Make sure you don't." He warned, knowing Spike would love to make Xander miserable.

Spike smirked. "I'm on your side. What one man doesn't appreciate, another will. She's my kind of girl, and not just because she irritates that lot either."



Spike waited outside the room, listening to the two sisters inside. Where are your balls, man? You can handle her.

"We're going to the Magic Box. I guess we could stop at the mall later. Look at some baby things." Buffy was saying.

"I can show you the place where I got the baby linens. It's so cool. Did you know they have an entire store devoted to babies? It's like some kind of weird baby superstore." Dawn said excitedly.

"Was it Babies 'R Us?" Dawn frowned, and rolled her eyes. "You knew all along. Well, I'm the kid. I'm not supposed to know those things."

"You'd better not." Spike said from the doorway.

"Hey, Mr. Leave your wife in bed, how was the treasure?" Spike walked around and sat on the other side. He laid his head in Buffy's lap, wondering if this would be the last time she'd let him get this close to her. He could hear Bitty's heart beating and it calmed him.

Buffy's eyes narrowed. Something was off. Spike was scaring her with his silent, almost cautious movements around her.

"I didn't go to check on the treasure. I went to talk to Giles." Buffy stroked his face, her eyes registering her concern.

"Why? What has happened?"

"Nothing. Yet. I had to talk to him about something that will affect all of us."

"Maybe, I should go to my room?" Dawn suggested. She had sense enough to see that whatever Spike was getting ready to drop on Buffy, it wasn't going to be pretty.

Spike smiled tightly. His hand reaching out to touch Dawn's arm. His Bit. God, pull yourself together man. They are on your side, especially Dawn.

"You're a member of this family, too. I want your opinion as well."

Buffy stared off into space. There was only one thing which stood between them, and it wasn't the Council, or Angel, or Dru, or Riley. "You want to get the chip out." She stated.

Spike's eyes widened at Buffy's proclamation. Was he that readable to her? He sat up, staring into Buffy's hazel eyes, which were angry and hurt.

"Do you?" Dawn asked. Wow, that was cool. No more headaches. No more… uh, oh. Buffy looked livid, and that was not good.

"Yes. I do, but I have my reasons." Spike said quickly. "I..."

"Dawn, go to your room. I'm going to kill him, and I don't want you to be traumatized by it." Buffy said angrily. She scooted off the bed, and started pacing.

"Buffy," Dawn protested, but Spike waved her off.

"Go on, Platelet. It'll be alright." Spike caressed her face, and led her out the door, closing it behind him.

He rested his head against the door, his breaths coming hard and fast. She had to believe in him. He couldn't bear to be away from them. Taking one final deep breath, he turned and braced himself as Buffy pounded her fist into his chest.

"How could you?" Buffy accused. "How could you go to Giles first?"

Spike caught her wrists, holding her still. "I didn't want to scare you. I....I..." He stammered.

Buffy wrenched her wrists away. "Scare me. I've never been scared of you. You're lying to me, and I want the truth."

Spike hung his head, sighing heavily. "I was afraid you'd kick me out." Buffy stopped her pacing. Her heart ached for the sorrow in his voice, but that was quickly overruled by the anger she felt.

"Why would you think something stupid like that? God! I'm your wife, damnit! I promised to love you through all kinds of crap." She grabbed his face, forcing him to look into her eyes. "You don't trust me. That's what this is all about. Isn't it? You don't trust me. You don't trust that I love you enough." She yelled.

"I trust you. I trust that you love our child more than your own life. I trust that you'll do whatever is necessary to protect her, even if that means keeping her from me." Spike felt the tears welling up in his eyes.

"Are you insane?" Buffy cried. "We've slept together for months, and you've never bitten me, not even... then." She said, knowing Dawn stood on the other side of the door listening. "And that's what vampires do!" Buffy grabbed his arms, pushing him up against the door. Her eyes pleaded with him to believe her, to believe in them.

"That trust thing goes both ways. You have to trust that our love is stronger than your demon. I already know that, which is why I sleep when I'm with you. Before you, I didn't sleep." Why couldn't he understand?

Spike pressed his forehead to hers, crying. "But the chip..."

"It wasn't the chip that made me fall in love with you. It didn't make you fall in love with me. It just forced us to be together without killing each other." And believe me, I'm ready to kill you right now for destroying our happiness. We're still on our honeymoon.

Dawn pressed her ear to the door. This was wrong. This was all wrong. They were supposed to be a happy family. It couldn't end like this. It just couldn't. Dawn turned and slid down the wall, her head buried in her arms. Her sobs were quiet at first, then became painfully loud.

"Buffy, I just don't want to mess up. I don't want to risk.." Spike turned to the door, his head cocked to the side. "Nib?"

Buffy stared at him, finally hearing what he heard. The soft wail coming from outside their bedroom. Spike looked at her, and all the anger she felt was gone. Dawnie.

Spike opened the door, but Dawn didn't have the strength to get up and move. Next thing she knew, she felt arms around her, holding her, comforting her, reassuring her.

"Dawnie, we're sorry. Please stop crying. Everything is okay." Buffy said, kissing her hair and face.

"I don't want Spike to leave." Spike kissed Dawn's forehead, drawing it up till she looked into his eyes.

"I'm not going anywhere. Even if she threw me out, I'd just stalk her. You know that, Bit." Dawn laughed, sniffling as she did.

"You and Buffy are the most important women in my life. And Bitty...she's my heart." Spike sat cross-legged in front of Dawn. Buffy held his hand, supporting him, loving him. "I just want to be able to protect you." Spike said, as much to Dawn, but to Buffy as well.

Dawn looked up, her lashes wet with tears. "Promise, you won't leave us, Spike. Promise."

"Never. I'm never going to leave you. We're family. The four of us are family, and we're staying together." Dawn wrapped her arms around his neck.

"Dawn, no one is going anywhere. I want you and Spike to understand why I'm upset." Buffy said, wiping the tears off Dawn's face. "It's not about the chip. Spike has to do what's best for him, and if this is it, I'll stand beside him 100%. I'm hurt you didn't have faith in me, in us."

Buffy grabbed the wall, and stood up, carefully. She went back into her bedroom, and closed the door.

"I fucked up, didn't I?" Spike asked, spinning around so he could sit next to Dawn.

"Yep, she's pissed and hurt. I am too, Spike, but I didn't marry you." Dawn laid her head on Spike's shoulder. "Go talk to her."

"I love you two so much. I feel helpless with this thing in my head." He explained.


Buffy sat on the bed, twisting her wedding band. He was supposed to trust her. Instead, he'd been afraid of her reaction. Damn him for making her feel guilty. Damn him for not knowing she loved him with every bit of her being. He was part of her. He was her soul and she was his. He should have known that she trusted him in all things.

Spike twisted his band, remembering Buffy's vows to him.

"Go talk to her. I'm going to get breakfast. I promise I won't burn the house down. I'll do cereal. That's harmless." Dawn said, pulling Spike up off the floor. She hugged him again, and retreated down the steps.


Spike sat on the edge of the bed, facing Buffy. She refused to look at him. Instead, she stared at the gold band on her finger. "Have I not proved to you I love you? I trust you."

"Countless times, but this is big, Buffy. This thing." He said, pointing to his head. "Changes everything. What if I can't control the demon?" Buffy's hand reached out to clasp his.

"You control it. You always have. I'm the Slayer, and I know my blood calls out to you, to all vamps, but you've never so much as bit my finger. Because you're in control. I put my life, my sister's, my friends', our daughter's life in your hands for safe keeping." She smiled slightly. "I love you. That's all I can promise is to continue to love you."

Spike pulled Buffy till she was nearly sitting in his lap. His arms wound around her tightly. "I was so scared."

Buffy rubbed his head. "I know, but you don't have to worry about me. I know you wouldn't hurt us."

"Xander won't be happy." About a lot of things.

"He doesn't matter. Me and Dawn. We matter. Don't worry about the rest of them. They'll have to deal. This is about our family." She said honestly.

"Our family." Spike whispered.



Buffy sat on the stair below him, her hand holding his. Dawn sat above them, her hand resting lightly on his shoulder. They had positioned themselves so he was covered, and he didn't know whether to laugh or cry at their efforts. Buffy looked over her shoulder and smiled at him, and he was struck silly with the knowledge that she approved of his desire to remove the chip. She wasn't worried or concerned for her safety, for their child's. She trusted him to do the right thing.

His eyes held her, caressing her lightly. They'd made love after talking. It was slow and languid, expressing in action, not words, their love for each other. When they came downstairs, Dawn was waiting, waffles on the table along with Buffy's newest craving, ketchup and honey. Dawn wanted a full report on New Orleans, and everything that had happened. She even got him to read her a passage from Martine's diary, which she swore was better than any Danielle Steele novel. It was almost as if the argument and tears from earlier hadn't occurred at all. They were just a normal family having breakfast before heading out into the day. It was nice.

Anya flitted about, dusting this, adjusting that. Not really staying in one place. It was making Giles dizzy and nervous. She was angry at Xander for some slight from the night before, and wanted nothing more than to reveal their relationship. He wasn't exactly looking forward to spending the next few hours with Xander either, his guilt pricking at his moral center. And then there was Willow, who watched them constantly last night, waiting for any kind of slip up on their part. No wonder Buffy went off the deep end. They were adults, making adult decisions, yet, they were being held hostage by their friends. It was utterly ridiculous. And on top of that, they had the Council threat and the chip removal on the horizon. Yes, the coming summer was definitely going to be the dog days of Summer.

"We're here. Let the research begin." Xander announced as he came through the door. He smiled at Anya, walking purposefully over to the table and taking a seat. He was determined to smile and be happy in Anya's presence, even if his face cracked from the effort.

Tara and Willow sat down in the remaining seats. Tara noticed the strained looks on Buffy and Spike's faces. Wonder what happened since last night? She mused.

Giles got up and gave his seat to Anya. He pulled the parchment out and laid it out on the table. He, then picked up the diaries and placed them at the corners.

"These are the items Charles Jayme's left with his family. We believe this is the original prophecy." He said, indicating the parchment. "The rest are Martine and Jayme's writings."

"Hey, G-man, this one's in French. I'm a little rusty with that language." Xander joked. Willow picked the book up, scanning the pages.

"Wow, I knew about it, but seeing it is believing. Have you read it yet?" She asked, turning to Buffy and Spike.

"We've read it. Some, not all." Spike replied.

"Martine's diary is not as important as this one. Jayme details everything from the time Martine was called to after her death. In fact, it goes 2 two years after her death. It stops shortly after he discovered this."

Tara took the parchment in hand, feeling the graininess of the paper, also feeling the power emanating from it. She felt the energy course through it, but it wasn't dark or evil. It was actually cleansing and pure. They watched as her eyes fluttered close and her body wavered as if balanced on string. Giles plucked the roll out of her hand, and she inhaled sharply.

"Tara, baby, are you alright?" Willow asked worriedly. She ran her hands over Tara's face, and down her shoulders.

"Yes, Willow. I'm fine. It was the strangest feeling. It was so peaceful." She was still floating, but the headiness was subsiding.

"Is that dangerous?" Buffy inquired.

"No, it doesn't appear to be. Tara might have tapped into whatever magicks were used to create this document." Giles asked, his brow furrowed.

"Can I see it?" Dawn asked.

"Bitty has been communicating with me. She told me to be ready to do what was needed. Maybe, I'm the one to help translate it." Spike and Buffy wore matching expressions on their faces, concern, worry, wonder.

"No, Bit. We can translate it. Its in the same language as the passage we found. If and when we need you, you can help us." Spike promised. Dawn nodded, and leaned back against the top step.

"I guess that means we're ready for our assignments, Giles. What do you want us to do?" Xander asked, clasping his hands together on the table.

"There's something else we need to discuss." Buffy said, standing up. "Before we tell you, know this: The decision has already been made." She turned to Spike, who stood next to her. It was now or never. No going back now, especially after that statement.

"I'm getting the chip out."



Buffy had to admit, Xander took it better than she thought he would. It had taken him a full minute before he leapt over the table to get to Spike. He found himself hanging in the air, held up by a Willow's argument special. He had ranted and raved for twenty minutes until he finally promised Willow he wouldn't try anything. She lowered him to the ground, but kept the barrier up. It separated from Spike and Buffy from Xander and the rest of them.

"Spike, why do you want to get the chip out?" Tara asked quietly. Spike could have kissed Glinda. Always the level headed one.

"To protect my family. That's all." Buffy and Dawn stood beside him, their hands clasped together.

"How do we know you won't kill them or us?" Xander spat.

"Do you even think before you speak? He loves them. He would never hurt them." Anya shouted. Xander turned to her, wincing at the anger he saw in her pretty eyes.

"I know he says he loves them, but what happens when the chip isn't controlling the demon?" Xander looked to Giles for support and found none.

"The demon never controlled Spike. He's always been in control of his actions, good or bad. The bloodlust never controlled him, like it did... Angelus." Buffy said it, and they all, even Spike, looked at her with wonder.

"What? Tell me that isn't what all of this is based on. What Angelus did? How evil he was to all of us? Well, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry." She cried. "But I refuse to allow you to compare them. Spike is nothing like Angelus. Never was. Never will be." Spike pulled her into his arms. He glared at Xander for making her remember Angelus, and what he did.

"Look, whelp. You have your issues, but you know I would never consider doing this, if I thought I'd hurt them. I'd kill myself first." Buffy stiffened in his arms.

"That won't be necessary. I'll do it myself."

"Xander, it isn't done yet. We have to find out what could happen if we attempt to remove the chip. It could cause Spike irreparable damage." Giles wished the boy would open his mind. He no longer thought this had solely to do with his crush on Buffy, but more to do with his disdain for demons.

"Fine. I won't say a word. If he starts killing, I'll do what you won't be able to do." Xander pointed at Buffy. "I believe we have research to do. Let's get started." He said, taking a book off the table and retreating to the loft.

They watched him go with a sense of dread.