They were all gathered at the house once more, getting ready for patrolling. Spike stayed in the background as much as he could, but Buffybot's eyes were on him anyway.
"Buffy", Willow was saying for the third time, her voice getting louder.
"Hm?"
"I said how much help do you think you'll need?"
The bot gave her the trademark beaming smile.
"Spike and I can go. That way I'll have a way to pass the time in case no beastie shows."
The vampire in question rolled his eyes. Dawn jumped in.
"I can go with you, Buffy. There's still a lot I can learn from you."
Buffybot seemed to think about it for a moment.
"True", she said with a nod. "I can still pass the time with Spike when we come back."
His jaw set, but then Dawn caught his eyes.
'I'll take care of it', she mouthed.
"Buffy, why don't you go pick a weapon for me. From upstairs?"
As soon as Buffybot had disappeared Dawn turned to Willow.
"The way she talks to Spike – that has to stop."
Willow looked between Dawn and Spike for a moment.
"It's gross, isn't it? I can see why you would be upset about it."
Dawn hesitated, but then she nodded.
"Make her stop, OK?"
"OK Dawnie. First thing tomorrow, I promise."
Dawn looked at Spike with a smile, and he returned it. Willow probably wouldn't have bothered if it had been him or if Dawn had told her she was acting on his behalf. Spike felt relieved. From tomorrow on things would be different. Easier. And he had the niblet to thank for that.