Chapter 5: Never Kill a Boy on the First Date

March 31, 1997 – Monday

Restfield Cemetery

Buffy's swift and agile movements filled the air with a flurry of action. She executed a high roundhouse kick, the force of her blow sending the vampire staggering backward. As he attempted a jumping half-twisting crescent kick, Buffy expertly ducked, narrowly avoiding the attack. The vampire launched two punches, but Buffy skillfully blocked them with precision.

Seizing an opportunity, Buffy seized the vampire's arm, delivering a powerful high front snap kick to his face. With a swift release, she followed up by delivering a solid punch to his midsection, causing him to double over in pain. Taking advantage of his vulnerability, Buffy swung her fist, connecting with his face and sending him crashing to the ground.

Breathing slightly heavily, Buffy's gaze locked onto the defeated vampire. She reached for her trusty stake, a determined glint in her eyes. "We haven't been properly introduced," she quipped, brandishing the stake. "I'm Buffy, and you're history!" In one fluid motion, she drove the stake into the vampire's chest as he struggled to rise, reducing him to a pile of ashes.

Giles appeared from behind a nearby crypt, his presence unnoticed until now. "Poor technique," he commented, emerging to join Buffy. He observed her actions with a critical eye. "Prioritizing, sub-par... Execution was adequate, but a bit too bloody for my taste."

Buffy smirked, turning to face Giles. "Giles, don't mention it," she replied, her voice tinged with playful sarcasm. "It was my pleasure to make the world safe for humanity again."

Giles adjusted his glasses, a mixture of concern and admiration etched on his face. "I'm not saying that your methods are without merit," he began, his tone thoughtful. "It's, uh, you're spending too much time and energy. It should simply be: plunge, and move on. Plunge and… hello." He bent down, using his pen to pick up a ring that had fallen to the ground.

Buffy's eyes lit up with excitement as she noticed the ring in Giles' hand. "Oh, that's great! I kill 'em, and you fence their stuff," she remarked, her voice filled with a touch of mischief. She glanced up at Giles, noticing the look he was giving her. "What is it?"

Giles held the ring delicately, studying it with furrowed brows. "I don't know," he admitted, his voice tinged with concern.

"But it bothers you," Buffy said in understanding.

"Yes! Well, I initially thought this vampire was simply on a random kill, but now, it may be something else."

Buffy's curiosity piqued as Giles mentioned the possibility of a larger threat. "Something big?" she inquired; her tone serious.

Giles nodded; his gaze fixed on the mysterious ring. "Yes. I'd best consult my books," he determined, his voice filled with a mixture of determination and apprehension.

April 1, 1997 – Tuesday

Sunnydale High School

Buffy, Xander, and Willow gathered around the table in the library, the dim glow of the overhead lights casting an atmospheric ambiance. The scent of old books permeated the air, lending an aura of knowledge and mystery to their surroundings. Giles descended the stairs from the stacks, his eyes scanning the pages of a book he held in his hands.

"That symbol on the ring… I believe it's the rune for fidelity, but, uh, it doesn't connect with any of the sects that I've studied," Giles informed them, his voice carrying a hint of curiosity mixed with perplexity.

Curiosity sparked within Buffy as she examined the ring, her fingertips gently tracing its intricate design. "What about this?" she asked, presenting the ring to Giles. "On the inside. It's a sun and three stars. Haven't we seen that somewhere?"

Giles accepted the ring, his gaze scrutinizing it closely. "No, I don't think this, um, represents any…" he trailed off, his thoughts interrupted by Buffy's eager revelation.

"Wait, it's right here. Sun and three stars," Buffy exclaimed, flipping through the pages of an open book. She handed the book to Giles, a triumphant smile playing on her lips. "Told you it looked familiar."

Giles's eyes widened as he absorbed the information in the book. "Oh, the Order of Aurelius. Yes, you're right," he acknowledged, his voice filled with a mix of astonishment and appreciation.

Xander, always ready with a quip, interjected, "Two points for the Slayer, while the Watcher has yet to score!" A playful banter ensued, accompanied by Willow's infectious laughter, filling the library with a lighthearted moment of camaraderie.

Just then, Owen entered the library, drawing Buffy's attention. She gracefully slid off the table, her posture poised and confident. "Owen! Hi!" she greeted him warmly, a tinge of excitement evident in her voice.

Xander, less enthusiastic, looked up at Owen and asked bluntly, "What do you want?"

Confusion flickered across Owen's face as he surveyed the group. "This is a library," he stated matter-of-factly. "I want a book. "I lost my Emily. Dickinson. It's dumb, but I like her around. Kind of a security blanket."

Buffy's demeanor shifted, and she responded with an awkward smile, trying to ease the tension. "I have something like that," she offered, her thoughts drifting to the stuffed pig that Dawn had given her as a comforting reminder of their late cousin Celia. "So! Emily Dickens, huh? She's great!"

"Dickinson," Owen corrected her gently.

Buffy recovered quickly, her smile widening. "She's good also."

Giles, ever the knowledgeable mentor, chimed in to assist Owen. "It's a standard Dewey Decimal system. The card catalog is at the desk, or you can use a… computer," he explained, a faint expression of disapproval crossing his face as Willow giggled.

"Thanks," Owen acknowledged as he headed into the stacks.

"I forgot people get books here," Xander said breaking the silence that had fallen upon them.

"It's the sad state of your generation," Giles said haughtily. Buffy grinned and rolled her eyes. They sat in an awkward silence until Owen emerged from the stacks with a book in hand.

Curiosity getting the better of him, Owen directed his attention to the book they had been consulting earlier on the table. "What's this?" he inquired.

Buffy swiftly positioned herself between Owen and the book, her protective instinct kicking in. "Not this one," she responded firmly.

Giles circled around Buffy, taking Owen's book and heading towards the checkout station. "Oh, Emily Dickinson. She's quite a good poet, I mean for a…" Giles trailed off, his voice hinting at an unspoken thought.

"A girl?" Buffy finished his sentence, her tone a mix of curiosity and affirmation.

"For an American," Giles clarified, scanning Owen's book and library card.

Owen, feeling slightly flustered, looked at Buffy. "I'll, uh, see you in math... if I open my eyes at some point," he commented, hinting at his lack of enthusiasm for the subject. With the card and book in hand, he took his leave from the library.

"Cool," Buffy responded nonchalantly as Owen departed, her attention quickly shifting back to Giles.

Giles spoke with a sense of gravitas. "The Order of Aurelius is a very old and venerated sect. If they're here, it's for a good reason," he declared, the weight of their discovery settling upon them.

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

Buffy stood at her locker as Owen approached. Leaning against the locker next to hers, he met her gaze, their eyes locked in a moment of connection. The fluorescent lights above cast a pale glow on their faces, highlighting the subtle emotions dancing in their eyes.

"You read a lot?" Owen asked, his voice gentle yet curious, breaking the silence that surrounded them.

Buffy's smile bloomed, a mixture of warmth and vulnerability. "I guess so. It's mostly occult stuff, though," she replied, a tinge of excitement in her voice. "I'm not a Satanist or anything. It's just interesting."

Owen raised an eyebrow, his interest piqued. "I'm interested to hear what you find interesting," he admitted, his words laced with genuine curiosity. "What do you say to going to the Bronze?"

Confusion flickered across Buffy's face as she processed his invitation. "I thought you were straight," she stated, her voice tinged with a mix of surprise and skepticism. The weight of her transgender identity, the complexities of navigating relationships, hung in the air between them.

Owen shrugged; his posture relaxed yet sincere. "I'm bi. It's not like there's a huge gay population at Sunnydale High," he explained, his words punctuated by a hint of wry humor.

A snort escaped Buffy, a brief moment of shared understanding and camaraderie. "True," she agreed, a spark of amusement dancing in her eyes. "Eight o'clock?"

"It's a date," Owen affirmed, his voice carrying a gentle certainty. Buffy turned her face into her locker, hiding her grin, her heart fluttering with a mix of excitement and nervous anticipation.

She had experienced the complexities of dating boys during her time at Hemery, always feeling a subtle unease lingering beneath the surface. She knew she wasn't doing anything wrong, but the disconnect between her true self and the perception others had of her added a layer of complexity to her experiences. She understood that she needed to live her life as authentically as possible until the time came to embrace her true identity openly. Yet, she couldn't help but feel a twinge of inauthenticity, a sense of being untrue to herself, when she engaged in typical teenage activities like grabbing coffee, going on dinner dates, or making out with some jock.

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

"It's not that big a deal. It's just a bunch of people getting together," Buffy said to Willow, her words intertwining with a sense of nonchalance as they strolled down the bustling hallway. The fluorescent lights overhead illuminated their path, casting soft shadows that danced along the walls.

"It's a very big deal!" Willow countered, her voice carrying a mix of excitement and concern. Her eyes sparkled with a hint of worry, reflecting the magnitude of the impending event.

Buffy glanced ahead and spotted Giles approaching, his presence bringing a touch of gravitas to the conversation. She exchanged a knowing look with Willow before turning her attention to her Watcher.

"Good afternoon," Giles greeted them, his voice carrying the weight of responsibility. The worn pages of a book peered out from beneath his arm, hinting at the wisdom they contained.

"What's up?" Buffy questioned; her tone tinged with a hint of apprehension.

"You're needed tonight," Giles informed her, his words hanging in the air with a sense of urgency.

Buffy groaned, a mixture of frustration and disappointment seeping into her voice. "I have a date," she lamented, the weight of her conflicting obligations weighing on her shoulders.

"My books tell of a major event occurring on the evening of the 1,000th day after the Septugian Sunset," Giles continued, his voice resonating with a sense of duty. "That's tonight."

"Already? Seems like just last week was the 1,000th day after the last Septugian Sunset. Where does the time go?" Willow quipped; her words punctuated by a light chuckle that danced in the air.

"According to my calculations, we are due for a fresh rising of vampires. It is prophesied: 'On that day, seven souls will be captures into the darkness. And the Master will look upon one of them and be pleased,'" he read from his book.

"Giles, I have a date," Buffy repeated.

Giles, understanding the complexity of Buffy's situation, looked at her with a mix of sympathy and understanding. He recognized the additional challenges she faced as a transgender girl, knowing that she would eventually have to navigate the conversation about her identity with anyone she pursued a deeper connection with. The limited dating pool, especially considering her bisexuality, added another layer of complexity to her journey.

"I sympathize, Rutherford, you know I do," Giles said softly, his hand gently patting her shoulder in a gesture of support. "But we have to stop this prophecy from coming true."

Buffy's hopeful gaze met Giles', a flicker of determination shining in her eyes. "Let's just hope these vampires rise before 8 o'clock," she said, her voice laced with a mix of optimism and longing. Deep down, she yearned for a balance between her supernatural duties and the pursuit of personal happiness, knowing that finding such equilibrium would be a delicate dance in her extraordinary life.

Restfield Cemetery

Giles and Buffy perched on a weathered gravestone; their figures outlined by the moon's soft glow. The cemetery around them exuded an eerie stillness, punctuated only by the occasional rustle of leaves and the distant hoot of an owl. They had been waiting patiently for the rise of vampires that never seemed to materialize.

"Perhaps I, uh, miscalculated," Giles admitted with a hint of self-doubt, his voice carrying a tinge of frustration.

"I'm thinking yes," Buffy replied, her voice tinged with a touch of amusement as she drained the last remnants of her drink. The sound of her straw slurping against the empty cup echoed in the night air.

"Well, you know what they say. Ninety percent of the vampire slaying game is, is waiting," Giles offered, his tone laced with a hint of resignation.

"I know." Buffy stood up, brushing off her pants with a sense of purpose. "You know, this is kind of a waste, right? There aren't any fresh graves. Who's going to rise?"

"Apparently no one tonight," Giles conceded, rising from his makeshift seat.

Buffy glanced at her watch, her mind momentarily shifting from the supernatural to the personal. "And if I hurry, I can hopefully catch Owen," she said, a flicker of excitement shining in her eyes.

Giles looked at Buffy, a mixture of concern and affection etched on his face. "Buffy," he said softly, his voice capturing her attention.

"I know, Giles," Buffy replied, stepping closer and enveloping him in a warm hug. "I know you support me, and for that, I am thankful."

Giles gently pulled away; his expression thoughtful. "May I ask, are you going to tell Willow and Xander?" he inquired. "After all, I already accidentally let it slip to Miss Madison. Sadly, that could happen again, especially in the heat of the moment when I'm not thinking, such as was the case that night."

"I told you why I hadn't," Buffy reminded him. "Xander's reaction to my being bi and being attracted to both girls and boys..."

"Xander has come around, though, since, has he not?" Giles interjected, his voice carrying a glimmer of hope.

"I guess," Buffy admitted, a hint of uncertainty lingering in her words.

"And Willow was supportive from the start," Giles added, offering a ray of reassurance.

"I see your point," Buffy acknowledged, her brows furrowing with contemplation. "I'll think about it. It's not an easy thing to broach."

Giles leaned forward; his eyes fixed on Buffy's. "How did you tell your sister?" he inquired; a genuine curiosity evident in his voice.

"She caught me wearing these cute pink heels I used to own before the move," Buffy revealed, a nostalgic smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "She was confused why I was wearing heels, so I sat her down and told her. She's happy having a big sister, someone she can talk to about girl things."

"Just take it one step at a time then," Giles offered, his voice filled with compassion. "When you are ready, come out to Willow and Xander. Then to your mom, and finally the school."

"Why the school?" Buffy asked, a sudden hint of worry creeping into her voice.

"So that you can begin the transition socially. That way, by the time you graduate, everyone will see you as the girl you are," Giles explained, a gentle smile playing on his lips. His unwavering support mirrored the unspoken promise that together they would navigate the intricate path of Buffy's journey, one step at a time.

Bronze

Buffy stepped into the dimly lit venue, the pulsating rhythm of music enveloping her. The air was heavy with the mingling scents of sweat and anticipation, blending with the electrifying energy that coursed through the crowd. The haunting melody of "Rotten Apple" by Three Day Wheely permeated the atmosphere, its lyrics echoing through the space.

"...is real / Then you wake up shouting some familiar name / It's not the same."

As Buffy's eyes swept across the dance floor, her heart sank like an anchor dropped into the depths of the ocean. There, in the midst of swaying bodies and flashing lights, she caught sight of Owen. His body moved with an effortless grace, entangled in a dance with Cordelia. The sight pierced through Buffy's soul, leaving her feeling vulnerable and shattered.

"You're just a girl / Just a girl who knows no shame / Whose desperate pace has lost its taste / A never-ending darkness weighs / I can't avoid, I can't complain / I know exactly who's to blame / The girl who shares my..."

As Buffy stood amidst the vibrant chaos of the crowded dance floor, a tempest of conflicting emotions raged within her. The pulsating rhythm of the music seemed to synchronize with the whirlwind of thoughts that swirled through her mind. The lyrics of the song reverberated in her ears, a haunting echo that mirrored the turmoil gripping her heart.

In that poignant moment, Buffy found herself locked in a fierce internal struggle, her sense of identity thrown into disarray. Doubts gnawed at her, questioning whether she would ever be truly seen as the girl she knew herself to be. Longing intertwined with self-blame, weaving a complex tapestry of emotions that threatened to consume her fragile resolve.

With a heavy sigh of resignation, Buffy turned away from the scene before her, her steps carrying her towards the exit of the Bronze. As the door closed behind her, shutting out the pulsating music and the dancing throng, she was left with a feeling of disappointment.

Summers Home

"Buffy?" Dawn said standing in the doorway of Buffy's bedroom looking at her sister sitting on the bed. "Is everything okay?" she asked with a touch of concern.

"No," Buffy answered sadly. "Come on in and shut the door."

Dawn entered the room, closing the door behind her, her eyes reflecting genuine concern for her sister. She approached the bed and sat down beside Buffy, ready to lend an ear and a comforting presence.

Taking a deep breath, Buffy gathered her thoughts, her words laced with vulnerability as she began to share the weight that burdened her heart. "You know that I had a date with Owen at to the Bronze tonight, and I saw him... dancing with Cordelia," she started, her voice trembling ever so slightly.

Dawn listened intently, her expression shifting from concern to curiosity as she sensed the gravity of Buffy's emotions. She reached out and gently placed a hand on Buffy's, offering a silent gesture of support.

"It's just... seeing them together," Buffy continued, her voice tinged with a mix of sadness and self-reflection. "It reminded me of something I can't change, Dawn. Cordelia will never understand the struggles I face, the battles I fight every day just to be seen as who I truly am."

Dawn's eyes filled with understanding, a flicker of empathy shining through. She tightened her grip on Buffy's hand, silently reassuring her that she was not alone in this emotional journey.

"You know I've questioned whether I can truly be seen as a girl," Buffy reminded her. "And moments like this, they make me doubt myself even more. It's like a constant battle, Dawn. Longing, frustration, self-blame... it's all tangled up inside me, threatening to overwhelm."

Dawn nodded, her presence a source of unwavering support. She knew the depth of Buffy's struggles, the journey of self-discovery she was navigating with courage and resilience.

"I just had to leave, Dawn," Buffy admitted, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. "It hurt too much, seeing them together, feeling like I don't belong in that world. But I don't want to hide who I am. I want to be seen, accepted, and loved for the girl I truly am."

Dawn squeezed Buffy's hand gently, her voice filled with warmth and understanding. "Buffy, you are my sister, and nothing will ever change that. I see you for who you are, you know that despite how many times I repeat it. I love you unconditionally for who you are. This Owen guy is a jerk for dancing with anyone who wasn't you when he was supposed to be on a date with you."

Buffy managed a weak smile, touched by Dawn's unwavering support. The heaviness in her heart began to lighten as her sister's words wrapped around her like a comforting embrace. She felt a surge of gratitude for having someone who saw her, truly saw her, and loved her without conditions.

April 2, 1997 – Wednesday

Sunnydale High School

Buffy slammed the door of her locker shut, the loud clatter echoing through the hallway. She leaned against it, her body tense with frustration and disappointment. The weight of her evening weighed heavily on her, despite Dawn's reassurances.

Xander, standing next to her, observed her with a mix of concern and confusion. He couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt for not fully understanding what Buffy was going through. He spoke up, trying to offer some solace amidst the turmoil. "So, you just went home?" he asked, his voice tinged with empathy.

Turning to face Xander, Buffy met his gaze, her eyes reflecting a turbulent mix of emotions. The challenges she faced as a transgender individual were often invisible to those who didn't share her journey. She responded with a tinge of bitterness, yearning to be understood. "What was I supposed to do?" she retorted; her words laced with bitterness. "Tell Owen the truth? Explain that I was sitting in a cemetery with Giles, waiting for vampires to rise and trying to prevent an evil prophecy from unfolding?"

Xander pondered for a moment, his hands fidgeting as he searched for a suitable response. "Or, you know, blame it on a flat tire?" he suggested, his voice tinged with uncertainty.

Buffy started walking down the hallway, her steps a blend of restlessness and discontent. The challenges she faced as a transgender girl were multifaceted, extending beyond the immediate circumstances. She sighed heavily, voicing her frustrations with raw honesty. "I can't take this anymore " she confessed; her voice tinged with exhaustion. "It feels like everyone is staring at me, judging me. I feel like some big, hideous, dateless monster." Her frustration spilled over as she directed her words at an unsuspecting passing student, projecting her inner turmoil onto the innocent bystander. "What? Yeah, that's right, I have no life. Come on, nothing to see here, pal, move it along!"

Xander trailed behind, trying to keep up with Buffy's pace. He spoke up, his tone a mixture of concern and confusion. "You're acting a little overly, aren't you?" he asked cautiously. "I mean, you could have any girl or guy in school."

Buffy halted abruptly, turning to face Xander with a fiery gaze. Her frustration and hurt seeped into her words as she snapped back at him. "You don't get it, Xander," she snapped, her voice trembling with a mix of anger and vulnerability. "You never will either." With those words hanging in the air, she stormed off, leaving Xander standing there, perplexed and concerned.

Xander watched her retreating figure, his brow furrowed in confusion and worry. He couldn't shake off the feeling that there was something deeper at play, something he hadn't fully grasped. With a frown etched on his face, he couldn't help but wonder what had caused the outburst and how he could bridge the gap to understand Buffy's pain.

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

Leaning against the wall, Buffy's gaze was cast downward, lost in a swirl of conflicting emotions. The sound of her name being called snapped her back to reality, and she looked up to find Owen approaching. A glimmer of a smile tugged at the corners of her lips as their eyes met. "Owen!" she greeted him, her voice infused with warmth and anticipation.

Curiosity burned in Owen's eyes as he inquired about her absence the previous night. Buffy's heart fluttered, torn between the desire to be honest and the fear of rejection. She hesitated for a moment before concocting a half-truth, her words laced with a hint of nervousness. "Oh, well, um, my watch broke," she explained, her voice tinged with a touch of innocence. "And, you know, we don't have any clocks in our house, so I didn't know the time or even the day..."

"I thought I was the only one that happened to. How 'bout we try it again for tonight? I'll even lend you my watch." Owen replied. His response surprised her, a hint of empathy coloring his words. He reached out, offering his gold pocket watch and chain, a tangible symbol of trust. Buffy's eyes widened with a mix of gratitude and relief as she accepted the watch, their hands briefly touching in the exchange.

The prospect of a second chance emerged, and Buffy's voice brightened as she spoke. "Tonight?" she echoed, a note of excitement in her tone. "Just you and me?"

Owen's reply was laced with wry humor, his disdain for the situation evident. "Well, we could invite the chess club, but they tend to get rowdy," he quipped, emphasizing his preference for a more intimate gathering.

Buffy's words stumbled, a hint of insecurity creeping in. "Oh, no, it's just... Well, I sort of heard that you and Cordelia were... somewhat... involved," she confessed, her voice trailing off.

Owen's response was honest and dismissive, his dissatisfaction evident. "I danced with her a couple of times," he admitted, his tone hinting at his lack of enthusiasm. "She's kind of grabby."

A surge of relief washed over Buffy as she processed Owen's words, the weight of her previous sadness dissipating. She reassembled her thoughts, her enthusiasm returning in full force. "Oh, well, let's see," she mused, her voice filled with a newfound optimism. "If I rearrange that and push that to the side... Sure! Tonight, will work!"

The excitement in Owen's voice was palpable as he confirmed their plans. "Great! I'll pick you up at seven?"

Buffy's response was swift and eager. "Um, seven!" she affirmed, a spark of anticipation dancing in her eyes.

Owen gestured to his watch, guiding her understanding. "That's when the little hand's... there," he explained, pointing to the appropriate hour.

Buffy's face lit up with a mixture of amusement and realization. "Oh! Between the six and the eight," she chuckled, her joy shining through.

Owen bid her farewell, leaving Buffy to watch him retreat with a mix of excitement and wonder. As he disappeared from sight, she whispered to herself, the words tinged with newfound hope and optimism. "Tonight! Isn't that something?" she murmured, the previous disappointment over finding him with Cordelia fading into the background. In this moment, the promise of a new beginning overshadowed any past uncertainties, and Buffy's heart soared with the possibility of a memorable evening ahead.

Summers Home

Buffy stood in her bedroom, her bathrobe embracing her figure as she opened up to Dawn about her conversation with Owen and their plans for the upcoming date. The soft glow of the room seemed to mirror the mixture of emotions swirling within Buffy, a vulnerable yet determined aura surrounding her.

Dawn's eyes reflected a blend of understanding and support as she listened attentively to her sister's words. "I'm grateful that things worked out," Dawn said softly, her voice laced with warmth and admiration. "Now, choose," Dawn said as she held up two outfits.

Buffy looked between the two very similar outfits of jacket, shirt and jeans. The difference between them was the color of the shirt and jeans. "I wish I had more options," Buffy sighed with a tinge of regret, frustration lacing her voice. "Why is it boys' outfits are so limited?" she mused, her eyes locking with Dawn's, searching for understanding.

Dawn approached her sister with a compassionate gesture, enveloping her in a supportive embrace. "I don't know, Buffy," she said softly, emanating a comforting presence.

Buffy mustered a faint smile and expressed her preference, "I think I will go with the blue trying to dismiss the disappointment brought about by societal expectations. She yearned for a future where she could freely express herself, liberated from the constraints and judgments imposed on her choices and identity. "Now…"

"I know," Dawn sighed, expressing remorse. "I'm sorry you can't be…"

"It's okay, Dawnie," Buffy reassured, her gratitude evident in her expression. "Someday, I'll be able to be myself fully, and then you and I can have a fabulous girls' night out."

Enthusiasm filled Dawn's eyes as she embraced the idea of celebrating their bond and Buffy's true identity. "I'd like that, Buffy." They shared a heartfelt hug, deepening their connection and affirming their shared journey of acceptance and love. With a final squeeze, Dawn left the room, granting Buffy the space to change and prepare for her evening.

Standing before the mirror, adjusting her outfit, Buffy's mind swirled with anticipation. She wondered where Owen would take her tonight and how the evening would unfold. Excitement mingled with a touch of apprehension, her heart longing for an evening of genuine connection and acceptance.

Interrupting her contemplation, the doorbell rang, and Dawn's voice echoed through the house, "I got it!" signaling the arrival of her date.

"That must be Owen!" Buffy exclaimed, her eagerness propelling her to the front door, imagining Owen's joyful countenance, only to find Giles standing there instead. "That's Giles," she informed her sister, who stared at the older man.

"I assume this is Dawn?" Giles inquired, gesturing towards the ten-year-old.

"Yes, this is my sister," Buffy affirmed.

"Buffy has said nothing but glowing things about you," Giles said to the younger sister, offering a warm smile that exuded kindness and wisdom. Then, turning his attention to the older sister, he adopted a serious tone laced with urgency. "We need to talk."

Buffy crossed her arms and arched an eyebrow, clearly determined not to let their conversation interfere with her plans. "Giles, I have a date tonight with Owen," she asserted firmly, making it clear that nothing would come between her and the opportunity for a joyous evening.

Giles raised an eyebrow. "You had a date last night…" he began to remind her.

"There were some hiccups," Buffy admitted with a sense of resignation, memories of the previous night flooding her mind. "I arrived at the Bronze and found him dancing with Cordelia," she explained, her emotions raw and vulnerable. Dawn instinctively wrapped an arm around her, providing a much-needed source of support and comfort. "I left, my emotions playing tricks on me, convincing me that as someone who is transgender, I wasn't worthy of his interest. It's an ongoing cycle of self-doubt."

Giles's expression softened as he listened attentively to Buffy's heartfelt explanation. Understanding the weight of her struggles, he spoke with empathy in his voice. "Buffy, I'm sorry you had to go through that. It's understandable how such experiences can trigger self-doubt and uncertainty. But let me assure you, your worthiness is not defined by anyone else's actions or perceptions. You are strong, resilient, and deserving of love and acceptance."

Buffy nodded, appreciating Giles's words of encouragement. She took a deep breath, steadying herself, and continued, "I know, Giles. And I'm working on embracing that truth. Tonight, I want to give Owen and myself another chance."

Giles nodded with a mix of affection and concern. "Very well. Once you're finished, please come to the library. There may be more to discuss than we initially thought." He raised the newspaper, the headline showcasing the aftermath of a tragic car accident that had claimed the lives of five individuals. "From the ashes of five shall rise the one. Five people have perished, and the Anointed One will emerge tonight."

Accepting the weight of her duties with a weary sigh, Buffy acknowledged the call of duty that transcended her personal pursuits. "Okay," she replied, her voice a blend of acceptance and determination.

"We'll prepare for your arrival," Giles assured her, his words carrying a sense of readiness and support.

Buffy leaned in, her lips pressing gently against Giles' cheek in a gesture of gratitude and affection. "You're the best," she whispered, her voice filled with heartfelt appreciation for his unwavering guidance and support.

Giles then shifted his attention to Dawn, his eyes softening with curiosity and concern. "May I ask if your sister has told you?" he inquired; his tone laced with genuine interest.

Buffy's gaze shifted towards Dawn, a mixture of protectiveness and trust reflected in her eyes. "Yes," she replied, her voice tender yet resolute. "She knows I'm the Slayer. Besides you, Willow, and Xander, she's the only one who's aware. I informed her so she understands the dangers and knows not to venture out after dark without me. And for her safety, I carved her a stake, just in case."

Giles nodded, a sense of appreciation for Buffy's careful consideration evident in his expression. "Good," he acknowledged, his voice tinged with a hint of relief.

Turning his attention back to Dawn, Giles inquired further, his concern extending to their family. "Is your mother home yet?" he wondered, his voice carrying a mix of curiosity and genuine care.

Dawn's face revealed a touch of worry as she shook her head. "No," she replied, her voice laced with a tinge of unease. "She's running late at the gallery," she added, her concern for her mother's delayed return palpable.

Buffy's gaze shifted looking for her mother's car, anticipation and a glimmer of hope in her eyes. "I was hoping she'd be back before Owen arrived," she admitted, her voice tinged with a mixture of longing and concern. As Joyce pulled her car into the driveway, her expression brightened. "There she is."

Curiosity danced in Joyce's eyes as she approached the front door, her attention now directed towards the unfamiliar face of Giles. "Rutherford?" she questioned, her voice carrying a hint of surprise and inquiry. "Who is this?"

Buffy stepped forward, her tone confident as she explained, "He's the librarian at my school, Mom. He's here to see if some students are interested in helping with a charity fundraiser."

Joyce raised an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued by the unusual circumstances. "Outside of school?" she inquired, seeking further clarification.

Taking the lead, Giles stepped in, his voice carrying a calm and trustworthy demeanor. "It's not an official school event," he elaborated, seamlessly continuing Buffy's fabrication. "It's a personal endeavor of mine. I find great fulfillment in assisting those less fortunate. As it would be considered a potential conflict of interest to approach students during school hours, I reach out in my free time."

Nodding in understanding, Joyce's expression softened. "I see," she acknowledged, her voice holding a note of acceptance. She turned her attention back to Buffy, her eyes searching for reassurance. "I hope you received a positive response from Rutherford."

Buffy interjected; her voice filled with genuine enthusiasm. "I did, Mom," she confirmed. "In fact, after my date..."

Joyce's eyebrow arched in surprise; her voice laced with curiosity. "Date?" she echoed, her tone revealing a mix of intrigue and amusement.

Buffy gently reminded her mother, her words carrying a hint of exasperation softened by affection. "I told you about Owen," she said, a touch of playfulness in her voice.

Recognition dawned on Joyce's face, accompanied by a nod of understanding. "Oh, right," she acknowledged, her memory jogged. "Back by curfew," she added, emphasizing the importance of her Buffy's timely return.

Buffy nodded in agreement; her voice filled with reassurance. "Promise," she affirmed, her gaze meeting her mother's, conveying her sincerity. As if on cue, Owen's car pulled up behind Giles' vehicle, signaling his arrival.

"Well, I should be heading out," Giles interjected, sensing the need to give the family their space. He directed his attention to Joyce, offering a polite farewell. "It was a pleasure to meet you, Mrs. Summers."

Joyce returned his sentiment with a warm smile, her voice conveying genuine appreciation. "And you," she replied as she turned and walked inside, closing the door behind her.

As Giles made his way back down the sidewalk, Buffy's words lingered in the air, a reminder of their unbreakable bond. "If you need me, beep me, okay?" she called out, her voice carrying a touch of both protectiveness and reliance. "Bye," she added, her words filled with a mix of excitement and anticipation.

She hurried to Owen's car; the eagerness evident in her every step. Opening the door, she greeted him with a radiant smile. "Hi," she greeted him, her eyes sparkling with joy as he grinned back at her. As a sweet gesture, he extended a piece of chocolate, a small token of his affection.

Bronze

Amidst the vibrant ambiance of the club, Owen leaned in closer to Buffy as they engaged in an intriguing conversation about Emily Dickinson. The dim lights of the club flickered over them, casting gentle shadows on their faces.

"The thing about Emily Dickinson I love is, is she's just so incredibly morbid. A lot of loss, a lot of death... It gets me. With a lot about bees, for some reason," Owen shared, his voice carrying a touch of fascination.

Seated together in the midst of the club's energy, Buffy listened intently, her eyes reflecting a mixture of interest and curiosity. "Did she have a tragic and romantic life? With a lotta bees?" Buffy inquired, a playful smile forming on her lips.

Owen nodded; his expression thoughtful. "Quite. Kind of sequestered and uneventful. Which I can really relate to. I… don't get out much," he confessed, revealing a glimpse of his inner world.

"I know how that is," Buffy empathized, briefly glancing at her pager, perhaps to check the time or to ensure no urgent messages interrupted their moment.

A moment of doubt crossed Owen's face, wondering if his words had unintentionally offended Buffy. "Oh. Did I say something wrong?" he inquired, hoping to clear any misunderstandings.

"Uh, no! Come on," Buffy quickly assured him, taking the lead as she invited Owen to the dance floor. The music enveloped them, setting the mood as they moved in sync with one another.

"It's weird," Owen began, seemingly contemplating something deeper.

"What is?" Buffy asked, genuinely curious about his thoughts.

Buffy couldn't help but grimace inwardly, wondering if he had started to see through her layers of complexity. "Really? Which one do you like better?" she inquired, attempting to keep the conversation light, even though her vulnerability peeked through.

"I'll let you know," Owen responded, a hint of playfulness in his tone, appreciating the enigmatic nature that seemed to surround Buffy.

As their intimate moment continued, Cordelia's arrival added a spark of tension to the atmosphere. She approached Buffy and Owen, accompanied by her friends, her presence exuding a mixture of arrogance and curiosity.

"Aren't there laws against this sort of thing?" Cordelia commented, her eyes locking onto Owen. Despite the slight awkwardness, Owen stood his ground, revealing his choice. "Owen! Look at you, here all alone..."

"Cordelia, I'm here with Rutherford," Owen firmly stated, emphasizing his connection with Buffy, leaving no room for misunderstandings.

"Oh! Okay. Do you want to dance?" Cordelia asked.

"No, I'm still here with Rutherford."

"You are so good to help the needy."

Unfazed by Cordelia's attempted interference, Buffy stepped in, her protective instincts kicking in. "Owen and I would like to be alone right now, and for that to happen, you would have to go somewhere that's away," Buffy retorted, asserting her desire for privacy with a hint of sharpness.

Cordelia's response was one of nonchalance. She gave Buffy a dismissive look before addressing Owen, "Well, when you're ready for the big leagues, let me know," hinting at her own allure before eventually leaving the scene.

Amidst the club's pulsating energy, Buffy and Owen found themselves wrapped in a cocoon of their own, a momentary escape from the world outside.

Streets of Sunnydale

Giles parked his car outside the solemn Sunnydale Funeral Home, the quietude of the surroundings adding to the gravity of his mission. Stepping out of the vehicle, he adjusted the bag slung over his shoulder. With a determined stride, he made his way toward the entrance of the building, his gaze focused and senses alert.

However, his progress came to an abrupt halt as a tingling sensation crawled up his spine, an instinctive warning that danger lurked nearby. Giles swiftly scanned his surroundings, his trained eyes spotting two figures lurking in the shadows. Vampires.

"Damn!" Giles cursed under his breath, finding himself trapped between two members of the dreaded Order of Aurelius. Reacting swiftly, he retrieved a cross from his bag, holding it aloft and unleashing its searing power upon the undead creatures. The vampires recoiled in agony; their sinister intentions momentarily thwarted.

Seizing the opportunity, Giles wasted no time and took off towards the entrance of the funeral home, his heart pounding with a mix of adrenaline and determination. The vampires, recovering from the cross's divine impact, pursued him, their predatory instincts urging them forward.

Inside the building, Giles swiftly surveyed his surroundings, his senses keenly attuned to the encroaching danger. Recognizing that he was no longer in immediate need of the cross, he carefully stowed it away in his bag, maintaining his focus as the vampires closed in, crossing the threshold of the funeral home.

Bronze

"Are you, uh, having fun?" Owen inquired, his eyes fixed on Buffy as they swayed to the rhythm of the music. The soft lights of the club cast a warm glow upon them, accentuating the delicate features of Buffy's face.

"Yeah. I almost feel like…" Buffy paused for a moment, her mind teetering on the edge of vulnerability and authenticity. She had nearly slipped, almost revealing her true self by referring to how she felt as a girl. Swiftly gathering her composure, she revised her response, carefully choosing her words. "Yeah," she replied, her voice infused with a blend of enthusiasm and restraint, masking the inner turmoil she wrestled with.

Funeral Home

Giles swiftly entered the morgue, his heart pounding in his chest. The air inside was heavy with a sense of foreboding. Slamming the door shut behind him, he desperately sought a means to secure his position, spotting a nearby filing cabinet. Determinedly, he tilted it, its weight scraping against the floor as he dragged it across the room, creating a makeshift barricade against the door.

With the immediate threat temporarily contained, Giles turned his attention to finding an escape route. His eyes scanned the room, and he realized with a sinking feeling that the windows were securely barred, trapping him inside.

Just as anxiety began to tighten its grip on him, a glimmer of hope appeared through the barred windows. Startled, Giles let out a surprised exclamation as he recognized the familiar faces of Willow and Xander on the other side.

"Giles, it's us!" Willow's voice resonated with relief as she informed him of their presence.

Giles's furrowed brow relaxed slightly, gratitude mingling with his concern. "What are you two doing here?" he questioned, his voice laced with a mix of curiosity and worry.

Willow replied, her voice filled with determination, "Rutherford called. He was worried you might come here alone."

"He called... when?" Giles inquired, his mind racing to piece together the sequence of events.

"After he and Owen arrived at the Bronze," Willow explained. "He discreetly excused himself to the bathroom and found a moment to make the call."

Giles's gaze shifted between the barred window and the door, realization dawning upon him.

"When we got here, we saw two individuals following after you," Xander interjected. "Are they..."

Giles's eyes darted toward the door; his worry palpable. "They are," he confirmed, a note of urgency in his voice. Returning his attention to Willow and Xander, he urged, "Listen, you should seek safety. Get out of here."

Concern etched across her face, Willow inquired, "Can you escape through this window?"

Giles reached out, testing the strength of the bars, a tinge of disappointment coloring his voice. "I'm afraid not."

Xander's voice resonated with determination as he stated the obvious, "Look, I hate to state the obvious, but this looks like a job for Rutherford."

"He has his... his beeping thing!" Giles interjected, his hopes flickering.

" Look, we'll get him," Xander assured, his voice filled with conviction. "Just hang in there."

Giles watched with a mix of apprehension and gratitude as Willow and Xander hurriedly departed, leaving him behind, their promise of assistance echoing in his mind. "Do hurry," he called after them, a touch of worry lacing his words, his faith in their resourcefulness bolstering his spirits.

Bronze

Owen and Buffy stood beside the stairs; their presence bathed in the dim light that spilled through the surrounding ambiance. As the words hung in the air, a sense of companionship lingered between them, drawing them closer.

"Do you want something to eat?" Owen's voice carried a hint of concern, his gaze fixed on Buffy.

A glimmer of appreciation sparkled in Buffy's eyes as she nodded, a silent acknowledgment of her hunger. "Sure," she replied softly, her voice carrying a gentle undertone.

Unbeknownst to them, Cordelia lurked in the shadows near the doorway, her eyes narrowing as she observed their interaction. Disdain etched across her features; she couldn't help but voice her disapproval. "What a disgusting display. Is that really appropriate behavior in a public forum? I mean, I've never seen a guy throwing himself at anyone, let alone another guy like that. Uhhh!" Cordelia's exasperation echoed through the air, only to be interrupted as the door swung open, revealing the brooding figure of Angel.

"Ooh! Hello, salty goodness!" Cordelia whispered to her friend; her gaze fixated on Angel's enigmatic presence. She leaned closer, her voice lowered, "Pick up the phone, call 911. That boy is going to need some serious oxygen after I'm through with him."

However, Cordelia's attention shifted abruptly as she observed Angel walking over to Buffy. Confusion creased her brow as she attempted to make sense of the unexpected interaction unfolding before her eyes. "Buffy," Angel greeted, his voice a mixture of warmth and concern.

"Angelus," Buffy responded, her tone holding a hint of caution.

The perplexed expression on Cordelia's face deepened. Angel had called Rutherford, Buffy? Confusion swirled within her, momentarily clouding her thoughts.

"I was hoping I'd find you here," Angel divulged, his words carrying a weight of urgency.

"You were?" Buffy's voice quivered slightly, a mixture of surprise and curiosity lacing her words.

Angel's eyes locked with Buffy's, conveying a sense of gravity as he continued, "Some serious stuff is happening tonight. You need to be out there."

Buffy stood there, her eyes glancing at the clock, the time ticking closer to the appointed hour. "I'm supposed to meet Giles at the school at 8 o'clock," she informed him, a slight sense of restlessness urging her to move.

But Angel stepped in her path, halting her in her tracks. His voice, a mixture of curiosity and concern, probed further, "What do you know?"

In response, Buffy nonchalantly shrugged, her tone holding a hint of weariness, "Prophecy, Anointed One, yada, yada, yada..."

Angel's piercing gaze met hers, unwavering and intense. He seemed intent on sharing some forewarning. "So, you know. Fine. I just thought I'd warn you," he said, his words leaving a trail of uncertainty.

However, Buffy was quick to redirect her attention toward Owen. "You see that guy over there at the bar?" she pointed out, emphasizing her point. "He came here to be with me."

The revelation seemed to surprise Angel as he inquired further, "You're here on a date?"

With her conviction unwavering, Buffy turned to face him squarely. "Yes!" she affirmed, her voice holding a touch of defiance.

Owen returned with drinks in hand, breaking the tension momentarily. "Here you go," he said, offering a drink to Buffy.

"Oh." Buffy looked between Angel and Owen, caught in a moment of awkwardness. Trying to keep the situation amicable, she introduced them, "Um, Owen, this is Angel. Angel, this is Owen." Her arm slid comfortably around Owen, claiming him as her date, "Who is my date."

Angel, his demeanor somewhat guarded, greeted Owen with a simple "Hey."

Owen reciprocated the greeting warmly, his curiosity piqued, "Hey! So. Where do you know Rutherford from?"

Angel's reaction was subtle but distinct; he raised an eyebrow, not missing the use of Buffy's last name. "Rutherford?" he questioned, prompting Buffy to respond.

"My name, or have you forgotten, Angelus?" Buffy retorted; a hint of her Slayer strength concealed beneath her calm exterior. She turned to Owen, gently offering an explanation, "We met at work."

Owen seemed taken aback, his disbelief evident. "You work?" he asked, clearly surprised by this revelation.

Before the conversation could delve further into awkward territories, familiar voices broke through the air. Willow and Xander rushed over to the group, their arrival diverting attention away from the unfolding encounter.

"Rutherford!" Willow called out excitedly, greeting her friend.

Xander's eyes narrowed as he noticed Angel's presence. "What's he doing here?" he questioned, pointing at the vampire.

Angel's response was simple and nonchalant, "I guess it's the same thing you're doing here."

Buffy, momentarily exasperated by the situation, intervened, seeking clarification from her friends, "Uh, excuse me, what are any of you doing here?" Her voice was tinged with a mix of curiosity and frustration, as she tried to make sense of this unexpected convergence of people in the midst of her date with Owen.

Xander, always ready with a quick response, tried to salvage the situation. "Look, we got to get to, uh..." he began, only to receive a discreet kick from Willow, a silent prompt to think on his feet. "Uh. We thought it'd be fun if, uh, we made this a double date!" His words stumbled out as he and Willow instinctively wrapped their arms around each other, pretending to be a couple.

Buffy's brows furrowed in surprise, her eyes widening. "I didn't know you guys were seeing each other," she remarked, genuinely taken aback. The thought of Xander and Willow as a romantic pair hadn't crossed her mind, oblivious to the supernatural events unfolding at the Sunnydale Funeral Home.

Willow played along; her voice laced with feigned enthusiasm. "Oh, yeah, well, we knew it would happen eventually, so we figured, hey! Why fight it?"

Owen, caught up in the moment, chimed in with genuine curiosity, "And you guys are thinking double?"

Xander, still trying to keep up the charade, chuckled nervously. "Because of… the fun!" He offered a flimsy explanation, hoping it would suffice.

"And you're here because of work?" Owen asked looking at Angel.

Xander, abandoning the pretense, decided to be more direct. "Hey, maybe we should all go somewhere together," he suggested, attempting to shift the focus away from the awkwardness of the situation.

Buffy, catching on to their thinly veiled intentions, responded with a mix of bemusement and resistance. "Gee, that's so nice of you to ask, but Owen and I were, well, sort of... Owen and I." She made it clear that she preferred to spend time alone with her date.

Xander, giving up on subtlety, decided to lay it all out. "You know what'd be cool? The Sunnydale Funeral Home!"

Willow chimed in eagerly, "I've always wanted to go there!"

Buffy, finally piecing it all together, let out a sigh of realization. "The funeral home?" She had finally grasped the unusual nature of their gathering, the supernatural calling that had brought them together.

Owen, surprisingly unfazed by the macabre suggestion, added his own curiosity to the mix. "Actually, that sounds kind of cool! Do you think we could all sneak in?"

Xander, seizing the opportunity, attempted another veiled hint. "We saw some guys in there before. They seemed to be… having fun!"

"Bite me!" Buffy muttered sarcastically to herself, a brief expression of frustration as she realized what Giles had done. Finally, she looked up at Angel, his presence a constant reminder of the supernatural world she inhabited. He wore an "I told you so" expression, wordlessly acknowledging the hidden dangers she faced. She mustered a response, her tone laced with urgency. "Um, Owen, I got to go."

Confusion etched Owen's face as he tried to comprehend the sudden change of plans. "I thought we were going to the funeral home," he replied, seeking an explanation.

"No, you can't. I'll tell you what. I'll be back in a little while."

"Rutherford…" Owen led her away. "What's the deal? Do you want to bail on me?"

Buffy shook her head, a mix of sincerity and reassurance in her voice. "No! No... no... uh... You remember when you said I was like two different people? Well, technically, I'm like three different people, and one of them has to go. But the other two are having a really, really good time, and will come back. I promise."

Owen, though puzzled, nodded in acceptance, watching her depart. As she briefly returned to bestow a kiss upon him, he couldn't help but utter his thoughts to Angel. "He's a strange guy!"

Angel simply smirked in response, knowing that the strangeness of their world far surpassed Owen's imagination.

Funeral Home

The trio cautiously entered the funeral home, their footsteps barely making a sound on the cold, tiled floor. Shadows danced along the dimly lit corridors as they moved deeper into the building. Buffy took the lead, her senses sharp, while Willow and Xander followed closely behind, their gazes darting around the eerie surroundings.

Buffy glanced over her shoulder; her voice hushed yet determined. "Which way?"

Willow, her fingers nervously twirling a lock of hair, responded with a hint of uncertainty. "The room's around back," she informed Buffy, her voice wavering slightly.

They turned left, their footsteps echoing softly in the stillness. But their progress was abruptly halted as they reached a dead end. Frustration welled up within Buffy, and she couldn't help but release a muttered curse, "Damn it!" The unexpected setback only added to the tension of their mission.

And then, much to their surprise, Owen materialized behind them, his presence unexpected and unwelcome. "This is so cool!" he uttered.

Buffy couldn't believe her eyes. "Owen! You can't be here!" She tried to convey the seriousness of the situation.

Owen, his curiosity piqued, questioned the group's purpose. "Oh, and I suppose you guys are allowed? What are we doin' here? Are we going to see a dead body?" His words carried a mix of fascination and naivety.

Buffy's response was cryptic yet laced with the weight of their mission. "Possibly several." She turned to Xander and Willow, her gaze shifting between them. "Guys, watch him." With that, she swiftly retraced her steps, determined to ensure their surroundings were clear of any potential threats.

Owen turned to Willow, seeking an explanation for the urgency. "Is he mad?" he asked, his confusion evident.

Willow, quick on her feet, conjured up a plausible excuse. "Oh, he just wants to make sure there're no guards so we don't get in trouble," she reassured Owen, her voice tinged with a touch of ingenuity.

Owen nodded in agreement, satisfied with the explanation. "Good thinking," he acknowledged, unaware of the true dangers that lurked within the somber walls of the funeral home.

Xander chimed in, echoing the sentiment. "Good thinking," he commended Willow.

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

Buffy moved silently down the dimly lit hallway, her senses attuned to every sound and movement. Her steps were measured and cautious as she scanned her surroundings, seeking any signs of danger or distress. As she continued her search, she came across an open door leading to the morgue. A sense of unease washed over her as she entered the room.

Inside, the scene was one of disarray and chaos. Buffy's eyes quickly gravitated to Giles' belongings strewn across the autopsy gurney, and her heart sank. "Giles?" she called out, her voice tinged with worry and urgency.

Her attention was drawn to the torn window bars, indicating a recent struggle. And then, to her relief and concern, one of the body storage drawers unexpectedly slid open, revealing Giles huddled inside. Startled, Buffy took a step back. "Giles!"

"It is you. Oh, good," Giles responded, his voice strained and filled with relief. He coughed; the effects of the encounter evident.

Buffy's concern deepened. "What happened?" she inquired, her voice laced with a mix of curiosity and apprehension.

Giles explained, his tone matter-of-fact. "Two more of the brethren came in here. They came after me. But I was more than a match for them."

"Meaning…?" Buffy questioned with a raised eyebrow.

"I hid," Giles admitted, his words carrying a hint of both pride and pragmatism. "This, uh, chap," he gestured toward the cadaver, "was kind enough to provide me with cover until they left."

Buffy absorbed the information, her mind racing to assess the situation. "So, were they after you specifically, or was it connected to the prophecy?" she probed, her desire for clarity evident.

Giles sighed; his expression fraught with uncertainty. "Ah, well, that's what we have to find out. I don't know what these brethren mean to do exactly. Find the Anointed, or, or, or, or give him something perhaps, uh, it's all, all very vague. And the Anointed may be long gone!"

"But he may not be," Buffy interjected firmly, her determination unwavering.

Giles nodded in agreement. "Indeed, we must find out," he affirmed, aligning his thoughts with Buffy's sense of duty and purpose.

Buffy, ever the protector, prioritized the safety of her companions. "Okay, but first I need to ensure Owen and the others are out of harm's way."

Giles, catching onto the mention of Owen, expressed his concerns. "Owen? You brought a date?" His tone held a mix of bemusement and caution.

Buffy sighed, a touch of resignation in her voice. "I didn't bring him; he came."

Giles, concerned for Buffy's well-being, began to voice his reservations. "Buffy, I understand your desire to explore and embrace everything it means to be a girl, but..."

"I know, Giles," Buffy interrupted, her tone tinged with a mix of understanding and determination. "I'll get rid of him."

Giles contemplated her words for a moment. "You can't make him go out there alone, we don't know where the brethren are. I-I'll just..."

"Giles, if he sees you, he's going to have more questions than he already does right now," Buffy stated. "I'll take care of it." With a sense of purpose, she swiftly left the morgue, making her way back into the hallway. She scanned her surroundings, soon spotting her friends approaching from around a corner. Relief washed over her as she greeted them.

"Is everything okay?" Willow questioned.

Buffy nodded. "It is."

Xander, eager to leave the unsettling environment, chimed in. "And we'll be leaving?"

However, Owen voiced his objection, his curiosity still piqued. "We're not done looking around yet!"

Realizing the need to maintain their cover, Buffy devised a plan. "No, he's right. Let's find a nice, safe, fun room to look around in," she suggested, taking Owen's hand and leading the group down the hallway until they reached the office door.

Owen provided a brief update. "We tried the office here, but it's locked."

Buffy, determined not to be hindered, took matters into her own hands. "No, it's not." With a swift and decisive motion, she broke the lock and pushed the door open, revealing a seemingly unremarkable office space.

Owen, skeptical of finding anything of interest, remarked, "Well, I don't think we'll find much in here."

Buffy's eyes scanned the room, her intent veiled behind a facade of indifference. "That's the plan."

Confusion etched across Owen's face as he tried to make sense of her statement. "Okay. What?"

Buffy hastily concluded her search, her voice tinged with nervousness. "I have to go now. Um, to the bathroom. If you hear anything, like a security guard or something, just be really quiet." She turned to Xander and Willow, assigning them a task. "And barricade the door."

With that, Buffy swiftly exited the office, disappearing back into the hallway as she made her way toward the morgue. Xander dutifully closed the office door, securing their temporary sanctuary within the funeral home's unsettling embrace.

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

With a sense of determination, Buffy and Giles ventured further into the eerie confines of the morgue. The dim lighting cast long shadows across the rows of body drawers, lending an air of foreboding to the scene. They knew that time was of the essence, and their mission to find the Anointed One relied on thorough exploration.

Buffy cautiously approached one of the body drawers, her hand trembling slightly as she grasped the cold handle. Bracing herself for whatever lay inside, she pulled the drawer open. A mixture of disgust and unease washed over her as she peered inside. "Eww, parts!" she exclaimed, recoiling at the sight before quickly closing the drawer.

Undeterred by the grisly discovery, Giles remained resolute. "Keep looking," he urged, his voice filled with unwavering determination. "He must be here somewhere."

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

In the dimly lit office, the atmosphere was tense as Willow and Xander hurriedly piled furniture in front of the door, their movements fueled by a mix of urgency and anxiety. They knew that their safety depended on creating a makeshift barricade, a feeble attempt to fortify themselves against the unknown lurking outside.

Caught off guard by their actions, Owen couldn't help but voice his curiosity. "What are you guys doing?" he inquired, his eyes widening with a mixture of confusion and concern.

Willow's response was quick but evasive, her focus solely on the task at hand. "Uh, just in case!" she replied, not divulging any further details. Her voice carried a sense of guarded determination, a reflection of the perilous situation they found themselves in.

As Owen's gaze wandered around the room, his eyes fell upon a curtain, partially drawn. A flicker of curiosity ignited within him, compelling him to investigate further. With a gentle pull, he revealed a small window, its glass adorned with a thin layer of dust. Peering outside, he was met with an unexpected sight that caused a gasp to escape his lips.

"Oh my!" Owen exclaimed, his voice trembling with a mixture of shock and disbelief. His gaze fixed upon the lifeless form shrouded in a sheet, resting peacefully on a nearby table. The sight of death, even in this controlled environment, sent a chill down his spine.

Sensing Owen's astonishment, Willow and Xander turned their attention towards the window, their eyes widening as they took in the scene before them. A hushed silence settled over the room, broken only by the distant sounds of their racing hearts.

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

In the dimly lit morgue, the air hung heavy with a mix of anticipation and trepidation as Buffy and Giles meticulously searched through the rows of storage cells. Each drawer they opened held the potential for a breakthrough, a discovery that could shed light on the whereabouts of the elusive Anointed One.

With a sense of urgency, Giles swiftly approached the final storage cell, his weathered hands trembling slightly as he unlocked it. The metallic click reverberated in the otherwise quiet room, signaling their last hope for answers. Buffy stood beside him, her gaze fixed on the drawer, ready to spring into action at a moment's notice.

As Giles pulled open the drawer, a fleeting wave of hope surged through them both, only to be dashed as Buffy's hands closed around empty space. The drawer was void of any presence, leaving them with a disheartening realization.

"Nothing," Buffy's voice echoed with a touch of disappointment, her brows furrowing in frustration. The weight of their mission and the stakes at hand pressed upon her, reminding her of the gravity of the situation.

Giles, his features etched with a mix of resignation and concern, stepped back from the empty drawer. The realization sank in that their search had come up empty-handed. The Anointed One, their elusive quarry, had seemingly slipped through their fingers.

"The Anointed must be gone," Giles concluded, his voice laced with a tinge of defeat.

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

In the dimly lit office, an air of unease settled over Willow and Xander as Owen's fascination with the covered body grew apparent. His eyes were fixed on the lifeless figure, his curiosity mingled with a hint of trepidation.

"I read a lot about death, but... but I've never really seen a dead body before," Owen confessed, his voice betraying a mixture of curiosity and underlying fear. The anticipation in the room grew as they awaited Willow and Xander's response.

As if in response to Owen's words, a subtle movement ripples through the stillness. The hand of the seemingly lifeless body twitched, sending a shiver down their spines. "Do they... usually move?" Owen asked, frightened.

Eyes wide with a mix of curiosity and concern, Willow and Xander inched closer, unable to resist the pull of the inexplicable. Once again, the hand stirred, its deliberate movement captivating their attention. And then, with an unexpected surge of strength, the hand reached up, swiftly pulling back the concealing sheet. As if awakened from an eternal slumber, the figure sat upright, revealing its true nature.

Standing before them was no longer a lifeless corpse, but a creature of the night—a vampire. He towered above them, his eyes cold and piercing. A calculating smile curled upon his lips as he flexed his hands, savoring the sensation of regained power.

"I have been judged!" the vampire declared, his voice laced with a chilling blend of malice and satisfaction. The revelation sent shockwaves through the room, unsettling the trio who found themselves caught in a menacing presence they hadn't anticipated.

Confusion mingled with mounting fear as Owen, Xander, and Willow instinctively retreated, their backs pressed against the wall. "What's going on?" Owen stammered, his voice trembling with a combination of curiosity and fear. The sudden turn of events had thrust them into a dangerous and unknown situation, leaving them grasping for answers.

The vampire, devoid of mercy or restraint, stepped closer to the window, He reared back and brought his head forward in a headbutt and shattered the glass.

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

A rush of panic surged through Buffy as the sound of shattering glass pierced the air. Without a moment's hesitation, she sprang into action, her heart pounding in her chest. With determined steps, she sprinted through the hallways of the funeral home, her senses sharpened to the unfolding danger.

Every stride brought her closer to the office, her mind racing with a mix of concern and urgency. She couldn't shake off the gnawing fear that had taken hold of her, fearing what awaited her friends on the other side of that broken window.

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

In the dimly lit office, the vampire's maniacal laughter echoed, filling the air with an eerie chill. His eyes blazed with unholy fire as he proclaimed, "He is risen in me! He fills my head with song!"

Owen, Willow, and Xander frantically scrambled to remove the furniture barricading the door, desperate to escape the approaching malevolence. With each passing second, the sense of urgency intensified.

The vampire's menacing figure loomed at the broken window, his eerie words sending shivers down their spines. "Pork and beans. Pork and beans!" he chanted, a haunting refrain that only added to the growing dread.

As the trio finally cleared the way, Willow opened the door, and they hurriedly fled the cursed room. The vampire wasted no time and swiftly pursued, his relentless pursuit fueled by the promise of blood and darkness. "I can smell you," he taunted, his sinister intent palpable. "You're the chaff, unblessed. I'll suck the blood from your hearts, he says I may!"

In the hallway, Buffy reunited with her friends, her heart pounding in her chest. Giles was still missing, but there was no time for hesitation. "He's in there!" Xander urgently informed her, his voice filled with concern.

Without a moment's pause, Buffy ordered her friends to safety. "Go! Get out!" she urged them, her eyes resolute and determined.

Xander reassured Owen, "He'll be okay," before leading Willow and Owen away from the impending danger.

As Buffy prepared to confront the malevolent force, she could hear the vampire's haunting song growing nearer, the melody dripping with malevolence. Unwilling to face him directly, she made a split-second decision and decided to intercept him through an alternate path.

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

As Xander, Willow, and Owen frantically dashed towards the exit, a glimmer of hope flickered within them. Freedom was within their grasp. But their relief was short-lived as they came face to face with the sinister brethren, their path blocked by the very forces they sought to escape. Willow's scream pierced the air, a desperate cry for help, as Xander instinctively shielded her, positioning himself as a barrier between her and the menacing figures.

In a surprising turn of events, instead of launching a direct attack, the brethren swiftly closed the gates, effectively trapping the trio within the haunted confines. The metallic clang of the gates reverberated through the air, sealing their fate and intensifying their sense of entrapment.

Terror coursing through their veins, Willow's voice trembled with fear. "I think he's coming this way!" Her words hung heavy in the air, blending with the haunting melody of the vampire's song that drew nearer with each passing second. A renewed surge of panic fueled their movements as they sprinted, desperate to find an alternate path to safety.

Yet, their attempts to evade the encroaching darkness led them back to the same dead end they had encountered earlier, a cruel twist of fate that amplified their despair. The walls closed in around them, a suffocating reminder of the dire situation they found themselves in.

Overwhelmed by the nightmarish reality they were thrust into, Owen's voice quivered with a mixture of fear and disbelief. "Oh, God, this is too much!" He struggled to comprehend the horrifying ordeal that unfolded before his eyes, feeling like a hapless victim caught in the clutches of a relentless horror movie come to life. The weight of the unknown and the palpable danger threatened to overwhelm his senses.

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

In the dimly lit morgue, Giles remained focused on his task, unaware of the imminent danger approaching. Buffy burst into the room, her eyes searching for a solution amidst the chaos. She urgently questioned Giles, her voice filled with determination and a hint of desperation.

"What've you got?" Buffy asked, her breath catching as she awaited his response. Time was of the essence, and her survival relied on the weapons at hand.

Giles, momentarily caught off guard, blinked in confusion. What?"

"What'd you bring?" Buffy questioned. "Do you have a stake?"

"Oh, uh..." He quickly rummaged through his bag, retrieving a stake with practiced efficiency. With a sense of urgency, he handed it to Buffy, their hands briefly touching in a moment of shared purpose. "Here," he replied, his voice filled with a mixture of concern and determination.

Grateful for his contribution, Buffy wasted no time. She grasped the stake firmly, her fingers finding comfort in its familiar weight. Her gaze locked with Giles', a silent acknowledgement passing between them. "Thank you!" she uttered; her gratitude evident in her tone. With renewed resolve, she turned, ready to face the looming threat that awaited her beyond the morgue's door.

"What should I do?" Giles asked.

"Go outside and make sure the others are okay," Buffy informed him.

But before she could make her escape, fate intervened with a cruel twist. The vampire, a shadowy presence that had silently crept closer, seized the opportunity. With a sudden burst of strength, he lunged at Buffy, his grip tightening as he effortlessly hurled her into a nearby cabinet. The force of impact reverberated through the room, causing her limp form to crumple onto the cold floor.

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

The atmosphere in the dimly lit hall was heavy with trepidation as the trio faced an overwhelming dilemma. Owen's voice broke through the tension, his words filled with a mix of concern and urgency.

"Somebody's gotta help Rutherford!" Owen exclaimed, his voice quivering with a sense of responsibility. Fueled by his concern for their friend, he wasted no time, his determination propelling him forward in a desperate sprint toward the morgue.

"Owen!" Willow's voice reverberated with worry, pleading for him to reconsider. Yet, her plea fell on deaf ears as Owen continued his determined dash.

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

The morgue exuded an eerie ambiance, intensified by the flickering lights and the suffocating presence of the menacing vampire. Buffy's eyes fluttered open, the haze of unconsciousness slowly dissipating, just in time for her to witness the impending danger closing in on Giles.

"They told me about you while I was sleeping," the vampire hissed, his voice dripping with malice, as Giles valiantly raised his cross in a desperate attempt to fend off the encroaching evil. "Uh! Why does he hurt me?" His touch sent a searing pain through Giles, causing him to recoil in agony. The cross slipped from his grasp, soaring through the air before landing helplessly on the ground. Defenseless, Giles became the vampire's next target.

With a surge of strength, the vampire seized Giles, his grip tightening around his vulnerable form. The ominous atmosphere was punctuated by the clattering sound of Giles colliding with the crematory controls, triggering a fiery blaze that engulfed the chamber. Giles lay motionless on the floor, his unconscious body a testament to the brutality he had endured.

As the vampire turned his attention toward Buffy, his eyes narrowed with sadistic pleasure. His vice-like grip tightened around her delicate throat, depriving her of breath as he effortlessly lifted her above his head. The scene seemed dire, with Buffy's life hanging in the balance, when suddenly, Owen burst into the morgue, his voice ringing out in desperation.

"Rutherford!" Owen's cry pierced the air, his bravery propelling him forward. "No!" With a swift and instinctive motion, he seized a nearby tray, wielding it as a makeshift weapon. The tray connected with the vampire's back, delivering a stunning blow that momentarily staggered him.

A shudder rippled through the vampire's body, his knees buckling under the unexpected assault. In his weakened state, he released his grip on Buffy, allowing her to stumble backward, her body colliding with the open door of a body drawer. She slumped to the ground, unconsciousness seizing her once more, the battle taking its toll on her resilient spirit.

The vampire, now enraged by Owen's audacity, redirected his wrath toward the courageous intruder. His fangs glistened in the dim light as he snarled, moving closer to Owen's vulnerable neck.

Owen's desperate act of defiance reverberated through the morgue as he grabbed hold of an urn from a nearby rack, shattering it against the vampire's skull. The impact stunned the creature, forcing him to release his grip on Owen. The young man wasted no time and rushed to Buffy's aid, extending a helping hand as she gradually regained consciousness. With his support, she struggled to rise to her feet, her determination unwavering.

"Did you see that?" Owen exclaimed, his voice laced with a mix of disbelief and defiance. "He tried to bite me! What a sissy!" The audacity of the vampire's feeble attempt at intimidation fueled Owen's bravado, but his triumphant moment was short-lived.

In an instant, the vampire retaliated, seizing Owen and using a nearby body drawer as an impromptu weapon. The harsh impact struck Owen's head with unforgiving force, rendering him unconscious and causing him to slump lifelessly to the floor. Buffy's anguished cry filled the air, her heart sinking at the sight of her fallen date.

"He's dead!" the vampire declared callously, reveling in his cruel victory. "He was found wanting!" The coldness in his words reflected the sheer disregard he held for human life.

Buffy's grief transformed into a burning determination as she launched into action. With a swift and well-executed front snap kick, she struck the vampire squarely in the abdomen, temporarily staggering him. Seizing the opportunity, she swiftly maneuvered around an autopsy gurney, pushing it forcefully into the vampire's midsection. The gurney pivoted upwards, delivering a powerful blow to his chin, causing him to stagger backward and collapse onto the floor.

Maintaining her momentum, Buffy agilely leapt onto the gurney and executed a flawless roundoff, gracefully landing on the ground just as the vampire regained his footing. His assault continued, swinging wildly at Buffy, who skillfully blocked his strikes. However, his second blow found its mark, connecting solidly with her face and momentarily knocking her to the ground. Determined not to be defeated, she swiftly rose to her feet, her resilience unwavering.

"You killed my date!" Buffy's voice resonated with unmistakable anger, her words laced with a potent mix of sorrow and fury. As the fight raged on, Willow and Xander emerged at the door, their eyes widening in shock and concern as they witnessed the relentless battle.

Willow's voice trembled with urgency. "Rutherford! Owen's..." she began seeing that Owen beginning to regain consciousness.

"Just give him a sec!" Xander interjected, swiftly pulling Willow back.

Buffy skillfully parried another punch from the vampire, retaliating with a powerful open-hand strike to his face. Blocking yet another blow, she swiftly delivered another open-hand strike to his abdomen, causing him to double over in pain. Seizing the moment, she followed up with a forceful knee strike to his gut, sending him staggering backward and colliding with a nearby counter.

"You killed my date!" Buffy's voice reverberated through the room, a potent expression of her righteous anger, fueled by her unwavering determination to avenge Owen's fall.

The vampire, undeterred by Buffy's defiance, lunged at her with a menacing growl, "Your turn." Swiftly evading his attack, Buffy expertly sidestepped, utilizing his own momentum against him. With a calculated move, she skillfully redirected his trajectory, propelling him airborne. He crashed onto the gurney, which began to roll uncontrollably towards the adjacent crematory chamber.

As the gurney collided with the entrance, the force of impact halted its movement, but the vampire, now, continued sliding through the open door. Acting swiftly, Giles sprinted over, forcefully kicking the gurney away, and slammed the heavy crematory door shut, sealing the vampire inside. A chilling scream echoed from the chamber as the vampire writhed and burned in the searing flames. Buffy's gaze remained fixed on the harrowing scene through the small window, witnessing the end of the vampire's reign of terror.

Her attention shifted as she noticed Owen attempting to sit up, his head clearly aching from the ordeal. Concern etched across her face, Buffy hurried over to him, crouching by his side. "Are you okay?" she asked, her voice filled with genuine care.

Owen's voice was laced with a hint of humor and pain as he responded, "Does anyone have an aspirin? Or sixty?"

Buffy's eyes softened with compassion. "Owen..." she called out to him, her voice filled with relief and tenderness.

Curious about the fate of their assailant, Owen questioned Buffy, "What happened to that guy?"

A slight smile played at the corners of Buffy's lips as she replied, "Oh... we scared him away."

Relieved, Owen expressed his gratitude, "Oh, good. 'Cause, y'know, I would've..."

Understanding his unspoken concern, Buffy interrupted gently, offering reassurance, "I know. Here..." Extending her hand, she helped Owen up from the floor. "I'm sure this isn't exactly what you had in mind for our first date."

Rubbing his aching head, Owen nodded in agreement. "Yeah! I was hoping maybe we'd finish at Ben & Jerry's."

The possibility still hung in the air. "We still could..." Buffy began.

Owen responded, "No, I think I'll just walk home." Confusion briefly flickered across his face. "Uh, which way's home?" he asked, feeling disoriented amidst the chaos.

A warm smile graced Buffy's features as she reassured him, "I'll get you there."

Owen hesitated once more before making his final decision. "No, I'll, I'll go it alone," he said, determined to assert his independence. Willow and Xander approached, standing beside Owen.

Willow spoke up, her voice filled with sincerity. "We'll make sure he gets home safely," she promised, offering support to their friend. With gentle determination, she and Xander led Owen out of the room.

As Buffy watched them depart, Giles approached her, sensing her inner turmoil. "Buffy, if I might, uh..." he began, hoping to provide comfort or guidance.

Cutting him off, Buffy shook her head, her expression resolute. "Don't," she whispered, her voice heavy with emotions. Slowly, she walked away, carrying the weight of her life, leaving Giles behind to contemplate the strength and burdens that rested upon her shoulders.

April 3, 1997 – Thursday

Sunnydale High School

As they strolled along the balcony, Buffy couldn't help but wonder about Owen's impression of her during his walk home with Willow and Xander. Breaking the silence, she turned to her friends. "Well, did Owen say anything about me on the way home?" she inquired, her tone hopeful.

Willow paused, considering her response. "Oh, you mean specifically about you?" she clarified, seeking to offer a truthful yet gentle answer.

Buffy nodded, anticipating any hint of Owen's thoughts. "Or generally... in the area, in the ballpark, any sort of indication?" she elaborated as they reached the corner and descended the stairs.

Xander chimed in, his reply somewhat teasing in nature. "Well, in that case, no," he admitted, not wanting to give false hope.

Attempting to soften the blow, Willow interjected, "But he was pretty incoherent, so we might've missed it," hoping to protect Buffy's feelings.

Buffy's expression fell, disappointment creeping in. "You think?" she questioned; her voice tinged with a hint of insecurity.

Xander's response was swift and straightforward. "No," he replied, dispelling any notion of misinterpretation.

Buffy's disappointment deepened, convinced that she had indeed botched their interaction. "I knew it. I totally blew it last night!" she lamented, feeling disheartened.

Xander, ever the optimist, tried to offer encouragement. "No, see, what you need is a guy or a girl who already knows your deepest, darkest secrets and still says, 'Hey! I like that guy!' Someone like..." he trailed off, contemplating the possibilities.

Just as Xander was about to suggest a potential candidate, Buffy's attention was diverted, and she interrupted him excitedly. "Owen!" she exclaimed, spotting him nearby.

Willow swiftly seized the opportunity to extricate herself and Xander from the situation. "Well, heh... This is our stop," she declared, guiding Xander away with her.

As the two friends departed, Buffy and Owen were left to face the awkwardness between them. "Hi," he greeted, breaking the silence.

Buffy reciprocated the greeting with a brief "Hi," the tension palpable. A moment of uncomfortable silence hung in the air before she spoke up. "This is going well," she remarked, the words laced with irony.

Owen, feeling the need to address the previous night's events, hesitated before speaking. "I don't really know how to say this, but... about last night..." he began, unsure of how to broach the subject.

Buffy, anticipating his thoughts, interrupted him with a touch of vulnerability. "You don't even have to," she interjected softly. "I'm sure you were pretty freaked out."

Owen's response confirmed her assumption. "Totally," he admitted, acknowledging the intensity of the experience. Buffy's gaze dropped to the ground, her heart sinking at the confirmation of her fears. "And... I was wondering when I could see you again," he continued, surprising Buffy with his genuine interest.

Her eyes flickered back up, hope rekindling within her. "Um, that was my hopeful ear. Could you repeat that?" she asked, needing reassurance.

"I think you're the coolest!" Owen expressed sincerely; his admiration evident.

A smile graced Buffy's face, genuine happiness shining through. "Really?" she questioned, needing confirmation.

"I mean, last night was incredible! I never thought nearly getting killed would make me feel so... alive!" Owen shared, reflecting on the unusual circumstances of their first encounter.

Buffy looked down briefly, contemplating the complexity of their connection. "So that's why you want to be with me," she mused, her voice filled with a mix of understanding and uncertainty.

Owen followed her, earnestly attempting to convey his feelings. "Oh, absolutely! When can we do something like that again?" he inquired, seeking to replicate the exhilaration of their previous encounter.

Buffy hesitated, realizing the impracticality of his proposition. "Tonight would..." Her words trailed off as they abruptly halted their steps. "Be... not a workable thing. Did I just say that?" she asked, surprised by her own response.

Undeterred, Owen proposed an alternative. "Tomorrow, then. I'm free any night this week," he suggested, eager to spend more time with Buffy.

Summoning her courage, Buffy gently expressed her position. "I'm not. Please don't take this personally. It's not you, it's me," she explained, trying to let him down gently.

Comprehension dawned on Owen's face; disappointment evident. "Right. It's you," he murmured, realizing that their connection might not be as he had hoped.

Buffy sought to salvage their connection, hoping to remain friends. "And I was kind of hoping that... maybe you and I could still be..." she trailed off, her voice tinged with uncertainty.

Owen's disappointment was palpable. "I get it. You just want to be friends," he acknowledged, his disappointment evident.

Buffy's response was filled with sincerity. "That'd be nice," she affirmed, genuinely appreciating his understanding.

Owen nodded, his disappointment evident, and started to walk away. "Friends. Yeah. Great," he responded, his disappointment weighing heavy on his shoulders as he left Buffy behind.

Summers Home

Perched on her bed, Buffy leaned heavily, her weariness evident in her posture. Dawn entered the room, concern etched on her face as she settled beside her sister, their bond offering solace in this vulnerable moment.

Dawn's voice was gentle as she addressed Buffy's distress. "Is everything alright, Buffy?" she inquired, her voice filled with genuine concern as she rested her head on Buffy's shoulder, seeking to offer comfort.

Buffy released a heavy sigh, her fatigue evident in every word she spoke. "No," she admitted, her voice tinged with exhaustion. "I'm exhausted, Dawn. Exhausted from pretending to be a boy when I'm truly a girl. Exhausted from concealing my true self. Not only because I'm transgender, but also because I'm the Slayer," she confessed, the weight of her secret palpable.

Empathy flickered in Dawn's eyes as she absorbed Buffy's words. "I suppose your date didn't go well," she surmised, her understanding of Buffy's struggles extending beyond their shared sibling connection.

Buffy nodded; her weariness reflected in her gaze. "Yeah. He wanted to be danger man," she explained, her voice tinged with disappointment. "You might not know the score like Giles, Xander, and Willow do, but you've heard me talk about it enough to know to be cautious. If I didn't shatter Owen's heart by revealing I'm transgender, he would have either gotten himself killed or I would have gotten him killed," she revealed, the weight of the potential consequences bearing down on her.

Dawn's voice softened as she offered words of reassurance and support. "Buffy," she spoke gently, her voice filled with love. "You will discover someone, someone who will love you for every aspect of who you are. For you being trans, for you being the Slayer—everything. Someone who comprehends the challenges you face. I genuinely believe that," she affirmed, her unwavering belief in Buffy's ability to find love shining through.

Buffy's gaze softened as she absorbed Dawn's words, her sister's unwavering acceptance providing a moment of respite. The weight of her secret and the burden of living a dual life had taken its toll on her. Yet, in that moment, she found solace in Dawn's unwavering support.

"I hope you're right, Dawn," Buffy whispered, her voice filled with vulnerability and a glimmer of hope. "It's just... it's hard to imagine finding someone who sees past the layers, someone who embraces all of me without judgment or fear," she confessed, her yearning for acceptance palpable.

Dawn gently squeezed Buffy's hand, her eyes radiating empathy and understanding. "I know it feels daunting now, but love has a way of surprising us, Buffy. There are people out there who will see your strength and resilience, who will appreciate every part of your journey," she assured, her words carrying the weight of her unwavering support.

A small smile tugged at the corners of Buffy's lips, a flicker of hope rekindling within her. "I want to believe that. I want to believe that love exists for me, just as I am," she expressed, her voice filled with a mix of vulnerability and newfound hope.

Dawn's voice grew firmer, her words laced with conviction. "You deserve love, Buffy. You deserve happiness and acceptance. And anyone who can't see that, who can't appreciate the incredible person you are, doesn't deserve a place in your life," she affirmed, her unwavering support shining through.

Buffy's eyes shimmered with gratitude, a deeper understanding of her sister's unwavering support washing over her. "Thank you, Dawn. I don't know what I would do without you," she whispered, her voice filled with profound appreciation.

Dawn leaned in, wrapping her arms around Buffy in a comforting embrace. "I've said it time and again and I am sure I will say it again. You'll never have to find out. I'll always be here for you, no matter what. Together, we'll face whatever challenges come our way, and we'll find the love and acceptance you deserve," she vowed, her words carrying a sense of unwavering commitment.

As they sat there, two sisters entwined in a moment of shared strength, Buffy felt a renewed sense of hope blooming within her. With Dawn by her side, offering unwavering love and support, she knew she could face the challenges ahead and find the love and acceptance she truly deserved.