Chapter 24

"Hello, Willow?"

"Xander?" Willow's voice was surprised, but pleased.

"Yep. How's it been oh friend of my childhood?"

"I'm good, Xander. You?"

"I'm great, Wills." The nickname slipped out, but Xander did not try to call it back.

"That's good." He could hear the smile in her voice when she replied. "So what do you need?"

"Do we really only call when we need something?" Xander's voice was contrite.

"Yes," she replied without hesitation.

"Sorry, Wills. I know this has been hard on everyone. It's just been…" He trailed off, unsure of how to finish his thought.

"Different," she said, as though reading his mind. "It's different."

"Yeah. But it doesn't have to be that different. I should call more."

"I should too," she admitted. "I was scared."

"Of me? Wills, I'm still me."

"And that scared me."

Xander took a deep breath and exhaled slowly. "I get it."

"I know you do," Willow replied fondly. "So, what did you need, Xan?"

"We found the vampire who attacked us."

Willow was more alert now. This was definitely not just a social call. "Who?"

Xander grinned and told her what they'd learned. "So, we were thinking you guys might want to help us out."

"You bet! I'll mention it when we meet tonight. I'm sure everyone will want to help. Either way, I'll be there so definitely count me in."

"Thanks, Wills." Xander hesitated before he continued. "I'm not mad that they turned me, ya know? I really enjoy this life. But it's not something I would have chosen for myself as a human. And they did kill me," he finished.

"I know. I'm glad you're…okay, Xander. But we'll get them for this so you can enjoy your new life to the fullest."

"Great. Thanks, Willow."

"Sure thing. I'll see you soon. And Xander?"

"Yeah?"

"Don't be such a stranger, okay? Since you're still you and all, we want to see you. Really."

"All of you," Xander asked, remembering the last time he'd seen Buffy. A growl worked its way up his throat, but he swallowed it.

"All of us," Willow said. "Buffy told us what happened. I can't excuse what she did, and I won't pretend it's not…difficult sometimes, but even Buffy misses you. She really does. So try to keep in touch, okay?"

Xander smiled. "I'll make sure of it. You call more too, 'kay?"

"Will do. I still love you, Xan."

"Love you too, Wills. I'll see you soon."

"Goodbye, Xander," she said. "See you soon."

"Later, Wills."