Hope you all liked the first couple of chapters of "Until the break of Dawn" this is a continuation of said story. I do not own any of the amazing characters in BTVS, although I wish I could claim them. I do own the ones I created however, and I love introducing them to the world that Joss Whedon and the rest of the creators came up with. Enjoy these next few parts of the story and let me know what you think!
Chapter 3: Awakenings
What…what's going on? A confused Addie asked aloud as she rubbed her forehead. She had just returned to consciousness. We're not sure, one minute you were with us, and the next minute you weren't. Dawn replied as she laid her hand on Addie's shoulder. You said you felt that something was wrong. What did you mean by that? Giles asked with concern. My head started hurting really bad, and I felt really weird, almost like I wasn't really there, or something, it's kind of hard to explain, it's never happened before. Addie replied with a slight shake of her head. Buffy and Willow walked into the hospital room from the hallway. Look who's up. Buffy said with a smile. You okay? A Willow asked as she got closer to take a better look at the dark haired patient. Yeah, I guess so..I feel fine now. How long have I been in here?
A few hours, you were out pretty hard, I'll let the doc know you're awake. Xander said as he stood up from the chair he was sitting in to press the button on the patient call light. After a few moments, a short, man with a Czechoslovakian accent entered the room. Hello Ms. Holmes, I am Dr. Owana, he said as he put his stethoscope in his ears and placed the cold disc at the opposite end on Addie's chest to have a listen. Take a deep breath please…and again…he then moved the disc to her back. One more time…. He then took the ear pieces out and hung the device back around his neck. Everything sounds normal. Do you have a problem answering a few questions for me in front of everyone? The doctor asked his patient as he looked around the room at the group.
No, not at all, ask away. Addie replied, anticipating what the doctor had to say.
Well, we ran some blood work and your levels are all within healthy range. Do you take any medications?
Addie shook her head
Have you had any recreational drugs or alcohol today?
No, Addie replied
Do you have a history of these types of episodes or anything similar?
No, this has never happened before.
Do you have a family history of illnesses? If so what?
My aunt died of lung cancer, my grandma had leukemia and my cousin had breast cancer. Addie replied with slight panic.
Well, as I said, your blood work was normal, but it wouldn't hurt to keep you overnight for observation, and I would like to run some more tests. I would like to give you an electroencephalogram test to check your brain activities, and make sure if you are having seizures, I can catch it. I would also like to give you a PET scan since cancer is present in your family. Are you sexually active?
Addie was so lost in her spinning thoughts that she almost forgot to answer. Um…yes.
Is there a chance that you are pregnant?
No
Even if you are practicing safe intercourse, there is a chance that you could be. I'll need a urine sample before sending you for a PET scan, if you are pregnant, we do not want to expose a baby to radiation.
I'm not pregnant. I…am sexually active with other women. Addie said with a slight blush.
The doctor smiled an almost unnoticeable smile. Very well. I'll have your nurse…Kat, order your barium, this is the only thing you can drink before your scan. For the next six hours I will need for you to not eat or drink anything. The barium is a liquid that will allow for us to see everything we need to see. I'll have her order the EEG too and we'll start monitoring your brain activities. Is there anything I can do for you or do you have any questions for me?
Addie smiled a sad smile. No, thank you.
The doctor gave her a small nod and left the room.
They're going to get you in tip top shape. Willow said with a hopeful smile.
Yeah, no worries, and you're getting out of work. Xander said jokingly.
Addie nodded her head. Very true, she replied
Do you want me to stay? I don't mind. Dawn said as she looked at her friend with worry in her eyes. Every time somebody she cared about landed themselves in the hospital, something seriously wrong happened.
Addie flashed her a half smile. No, I want you to go home and listen to that cd…you can tell me what you think tomorrow. I'll be fine.
Dawn reached down to grab her hand, she gave it a little squeeze when she retrieved it. Okay, well you call me if you need anything at all.
I definitely will…I'm sorry about ruining everyone's day. Addie said to the group with a frown.
You saved me from having sand in places that it doesn't belong. Giles said with a kind smile.
We'll just have to do it again when you're out. Buffy said.
The group sat with Addie for about an hour, then the nurse came into the room and hooked several round discs onto her head, she looked like a horror movie character when they were all strategically placed.
Mm..man, I am looking good. Addie said to herself as she peered into bathroom mirror that was visible from her bed.
You're still hot. Dawn said as she placed her finger on her friend's shoulder and pretended to burn herself.
We're going to get out of here, and leave everyone to their work. We wish you all the best, keep us informed if you hear anything. Giles said kindly
You've got this. Xander said as he followed the older man out of the room
Don't forget, you're not alone in this. Buffy said as she hugged Addie and then joined her friends in the hallway.
We'll see you soon for more donuts maybe? Willow asked with a smile. She too hugged Addie. When the red head hugged her, she felt the familiar pain in her chest that she had felt at the beach. Yea, definitely. Addie said as Willow pulled away. Willow stared at her briefly, there was a tension radiating from the other woman that she could not explain. Ok…well see you soon. Willow said as she hurried out of the door.
Are you sure you don't want me to stay? Dawn asked as she looked down at Addie.
I'm sure, you have done so much for me already. I feel so bad for ruining everything today. I swear nothing like this has ever happened before.
It's really okay, you'll just have to owe me another day. Dawn said with a smile. She bend down and hugged her friend. I'll see you tomorrow and I will definitely listen to the cd tonight.
You better. Addie said with a crooked smile. Dawn smiled in return and left the room to catch a ride with Willow and Buffy.
Upon returning home, Dawn ran into her bedroom to listen to the cd. She was excited to learn about her new friend through music. Buffy and Willow sat on the front porch steps.
Buff, do you think Addie is going to be okay? Willow asked
Yeah, I think she probably just had a seizure or something, probably just a fluke.
This is going to sound crazy…but I feel like..I don't know…like I've met her before...but I can't quite place it. Willow said with confusion
I hate when that happens. Buffy replied
No… not just in passing, but like I've known her my whole life or something. I can't really explain it.
Hmm…well maybe she just has something that makes you feel connected to her. Buffy said with a small smile. Through the years Willow had been longing for a connection with someone like she had with Tara, not in the sexual way, but the spiritual way. She missed the friendship that she shared with her former partner.
Maybe….Willow said with a sigh. The two sat and chatted for a little while longer and Willow decided that she should head home.
"Truly thought I could make it right if I kissed you one more time, to help you face the nightmare, but you're far too poisoned for me. Such a fool to think that I can wake you from your slumber, that I could actually heal you. Sleeping beauty, poisoned and hopeless, you're far beyond a visible sign of your awakening, failing miserably to find a way to comfort you."(A Perfect Circle)
These lyrics were flowing melodically from Dawn's cd player quietly through her door as the older Summers girl walked past her sisters room through the hall to enter her own bedroom. Dawn was laying on her bed as she let the music engulf her. Every song was amazing, it was as if her ears had never truly listened before. Sure the punk/pop bands that she grew up with served their purpose of inciting teenage angst and she enjoyed the nostalgia when she listened to these bands in her adulthood, but this…this was music.
"I am too connected to you, to slip away, to fade away. Days away I still feel you, touching me, changing me and considerably killing me." (TOOL)
Wow. Dawn said in a loud whisper to herself. At this moment, she felt foolish for ever liking any other type of "music." The songs on the radio just did not compare. As the music continued, she let herself drift off into a deep sleep.
Kennedy was sitting on the recliner watching TV when Willow walked in through the front door, she acted as if she did not hear her come in and kept her eyes glued to the show she was watching. Willow sighed, she could already tell that this was not going to be a good night. If she did not say anything to Kennedy, she would be yelled at, if she did…she would be yelled at. She chose to be the bigger person. Hey, Ken. Do you want something to eat? I'm going to make a sandwich.
Nice of you to finally come home, was the response she received.
It was a long day. That girl, Dawn's friend..had to go to the hospital. Willow replied. She figured if she called Addie Dawn's friend, it would look as if she didn't mind distancing herself from her. Kennedy had always been an overly jealous type. One time, while in the grocery store, the check out woman accidentally brushed Willow's hand and Kennedy threw a conniption fit. Is she okay? Kennedy asked as she walked into the kitchen.
They are running some tests on her tonight, to see if maybe she had a seizure..but I think she'll probably be okay. Willow said as she relaxed a little. Maybe there would be no argument after all.
Hmm. Sucks. The brunette woman replied with a shrug.
I'm exhausted. Willow said before releasing a fake sigh. She knew her girlfriend would want to be with her tonight.
Hopefully not too exhausted. Kennedy said with a devilish smile as she wrapped her arms around Willow's waist.
In order to keep the peace, Willow smiled a fake smile and decided to give in. Kennedy's behavior earlier in the day, was a huge turn off.
Willow laid in bed thinking about the events of the day and what the next day might bring while her girlfriend went down on her. To be realistic, she added a few pleasure sound effects and made her breathing more labored. This charade continued a little while longer until Willow acted like she was getting off.
Yeah, baby..that feels so good. Mmmm…right there…oh god…oh….ahh..she let her body tense up and relax as if she was having an orgasm. Kennedy lifted herself up and laid next to her lover. Did you like that Will? She asked with a confident smile.
Always do. The red head responded. Willow acted as if she was too worn out to reciprocate and pretended to fall asleep with a "grin." Kennedy frowned and rolled over facing the wall until she fell asleep.
Chapter 4: Happenings
Your chariot a waits, Dawn said to a groggy Addie. She helped her into her car. She had agreed to pick up her friend from the hospital when the doctor said it was okay to release her. Dawn had gone to school and anxiously awaited a text from her new found friend giving the okay. Nothing unusual was found in the EEG test or the PET scan, it was presumed that Addie had a migraine. When the two arrived to Addie's apartment, Dawn followed her inside and the two sat down on Addie's bed. Can I do anything for you? A very chipper Dawn asked
Addie threw her a crooked smile. Nah, I'm just glad to be in my own bed.
Lay down. Dawn said as she grabbed Addie's shoes off of her feet.
You don't have to do that. Addie replied as she tried to gently fight Dawn's hands away.
I want to, now don't fight with me about it. Dawn replied firmly
Stubborn. Was the only word Addie could muster up. She was medicated and tired
Dawn tucked Addie in and left her alone to sleep. She decided it would be best to try and do some homework in Addie's living room while the other woman slept, she walked out to her car to retrieve her laptop and textbooks. After about three hours into working on an essay for English comp one, Dawn heard keys in the door. A woman with short brown hair and a woman with long blonde hair walked in in the middle of a conversation. I just wish the ending wasn't so stupid, other than that it was good. The blonde said. I thought the ending was great, you just have to find something to complain about is all. The brown headed woman replied. Whatever! The blonde replied. They both realized they were not alone in the room and looked at Dawn. Hey, I'm Dawn. She said to them as she stood up. I'm a friend of Addies.
Oh..where is Addie? The brown headed girl asked.
She's asleep, she had to stay at the hospital last night and most of the day, and she was pretty tired.
Oh my God! Why was she in the hospital? The blonde asked with concern.
They think she just had a bad migraine, she's okay. Dawn replied
Oh..shit…well..thanks for being there for her. I'm Lynn and this is Julie. The brown headed girl said as she pointed to herself and her accomplice.
Nice to meet you, I'm sorry, I'll get out of here. I just wanted somebody to be here in case she woke up. I was just doing some homework. Dawn said quickly
You don't have to go, it's really okay. We just went to a movie and we're going to go to bed, I think. Lynn said as she eyed Julie.
Julie smiled. We have company right now, how about a night cap?
No..no..it's really okay, if you have plans. I can just crash here until Addie wakes up, or I can go..or. Dawn was interrupted by Lynn
I think a drink sounds good!
The three made margaritas and sat together to talk.
So, are you and Addie seeing eachother..or..? Julie asked
Oh..we are just friends, we just met in class.
That's cool, she's such a good person. Lynn replied
Definitely, Dawn replied.
I know I am. Addie replied as she walked out of the hallway leading to her room.
Were we making too much noise? Julie asked
No, not at all, I just felt like getting up. Addie replied kindly.
So what happened? Dawn said you were in the hospital? Lynn asked her roommate.
I guess I just had a bad migraine. No big….You're still here? Addie asked Dawn with a smile
Yeah, we were just having a drink and talking. I wanted someone to be here when you woke up.
Thank you so much, I owe you big time. Addie replied
It's no problem at all. I wanted to be here and I got quite a bit of work done. Dawn replied.
Lynn gave Julie a look and cocked her head. Bed?
Yeah, goodnight you guys. Hope to see more of you Dawn. She said to the newcomer.
Goodnight. I'll see you later. Dawn said with a smile
After her friends left the living room, Addie set down next to Dawn. They're a trip. She stated
They seem nice, I'm glad you have them.
They're actually moving out next week, I'm kind of glad. We make great friends, but roommates, not so much. Addie said as she looked at Dawn.
Really? Why?
I have to be up for work early, and they are all about partying. Mommy and Daddy still send them money. Addie replied sarcastically.
Ah…I can see how that would get old. Dawn replied with a chuckle.
Are you hungry? It's not too late to order something in, we could watch a movie or something. Addie asked changing the subject.
I'm starving. Dawn answered.
How about Chinese? I know a great place that delivers. Addie asked
Mmm. Chinese sounds delicious.
Addie got up off of the couch and walked into the kitchen to retrieve a menu. The two decided on what they wanted to eat and Addie called the order in.
So, it'll be about forty five minutes, if you want, you can pick out a movie. Addie said as she pointed to a large bookcase full of dvds. Dawn got up and examined the movies.
So many good ones, she said to herself. How about The Lost Boys?! I haven't seen that in forever! She asked excitedly.
Good choice, I'll pop it in. Addie replied with a crooked smile as she put the dvd into the dvd player and turned on the large flat screen tv. The two watched half an hour of the movie then were interrupted by the sound of knocking on the door.
Addie arose off of the couch and answered the door to find an Asian man outside holding a large cardboard lid with bags of Chinese food in it. Twenty two fourty six. He stated as he looked down at his copy of the receipt.
Here is twenty eight, just keep the change. Addie replied as she handed the delivery man a tip and grabbed the food. Thank you. He replied as he turned to walk toward his car.
Addie closed the door before sitting the food on a table in front of the couch. She then stepped into the kitchen and pulled out two bottles of water from the refrigerator, she then returned to her spot beside Dawn and handed her a bottle.
Thank you, this smells so good. Dawn replied
Dig in. Addie said with a smile. The two finished the movie and their meals. Dawn helped Addie clean up the dinner mess and she checked the time on her phone. It was just before midnight. Addie caught her checking the time. Do you want to just stay here tonight? I can sleep on the couch..it's so late.
Dawn thought about this, she didn't really feel like driving home. I wouldn't want to impose or anything. I don't have anything to sleep in either.
You can wear some of my stuff if you want. It's no big. Addie replied.
Dawn smiled. Yeah, I'll stay..but you have to sleep in your bed too. I'm not going to do that to you.
Well, since you twisted my arm. Addie replied with a grin. The two walked to Addie's bedroom and the sound of a bed creaking from the room next door was interrupting the silence of the apartment. I'm going to put on some music…sorry about that. Addie said with slight embarrassment.
Oh..no, it's okay. I used to sleep in the room next to Willow and Tara. It's nothing I haven't heard before. Dawn said reassuringly.
You mentioned Tara before…what happened?
She died…she was shot. Dawn replied sadly
I'm sorry. I didn't mean to upset you.
No, it was a long time ago, but still feels fresh you know?
Yeah..i get it….here…shorts and tank alright? Addie asked her guest as she pulled out a tank top and some cotton shorts for Dawn.
Looks good to me. Dawn replied as she grabbed the clothes '
You can change in my bathroom if you want.
Thanks. I'll be right out.
While Dawn was in the bathroom, Addie decided to change her clothes as well. After doing so, she walked to her cds to pick something out. Hmm..I'll go with you. She said to herself as she grabbed Deftones mixed cd with the more mellow songs. She put the cd into her cd player and the melodic music permeated the air, drowning out the activities of her neighbors in the next room.
These are really comfortable. Thanks. Dawn said as she walked out of the bathroom.
No problem. Addie responded. She moved over in her bed so Dawn could join her. Dawn laid down and faced Addie. What are we listening to?
Sextape by Deftones. Ironic huh? Addie asked with a chuckle
Dawn giggled. It's really good
Yeah, I love music. It has gotten me through so much. Addie replied with seriousness
The two let the music lull them to sleep
Buffy lay alone recapping the day. She had received a text message from Dawn stating that she would not be coming home tonight. The Scooby meeting went well, everything was uneventful. She felt guilty for missing the chaos at times. She was having flashbacks of times when the old gang would pull all nighters researching and/or fighting new "big bads" and tears streamed down her face…she missed Spike. She missed having a houseful of people, she missed the smile on Willow's face, the real smile when her friend had met Tara. She missed Xander and Anya's bickering. She missed her sister with eyes full of wonder and she missed the old Sunnydale. Buffy cried softly until she fell asleep.
Willow lay staring at the ceiling as she listened to Kennedy snoring beside her. The night felt heavy and she could not shake it. I miss you baby. She whispered aloud. She was thinking of Tara a lot lately, but especially tonight. I wish I could see you, and feel you. I just want your arms around me. She whispered again. Kennedy slept hard so she knew she would not hear her. She closed her eyes tight to draw up another bittersweet memory.
And the big pineapple. Tara said as the two looked up at the night sky. Hmm..you know, I don't think I remember that one. Willow responded in confusion. Oh, It's a major one. You see those three bright stars over there? She asked as she pointed to three bright stars. Yeah. Willow responded And see those stars along there? That's the bottom of the pineapple. Tara stated with a smile. It's big. Willow responded to her girlfriend.
Hence the name. The real ones never made sense to me…I sort of have my own. Tara replied. The two had decided to sleep on a rooftop that particular night and stargaze. It was perfect until a giant meteor hit the ground nearby. Willow fell asleep while imagining Tara spooning her as she did most every night while she was alive.