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Three years. It had been three long years since Spike had left Sunnydale. He grinned sardonically as his car sped by the familiar "Welcome to Sunnydale" sign. Time for a bleedin' reunion.

He'd helped the Scoobies defeat Glory and then fled from Sunnydale. Spike had run from his impossible love for the Slayer, his desire to help the gang and become a "good guy", and his attachment to the Slayer's sister, Dawn. To this day he didn't know how she'd been able to worm her way into his cold undead heart. He'd never been able to evict her from it either.

When he told Dawn that he was leaving Sunnydale she had begged him not to go. She'd been the only one who cared. Dawn had sat on the slab in his crypt and silently watched him pack up his meager possessions, tears streaking her beautiful face. When he was finished packing, he'd wrapped his arms around her and whispered in her ear. "Goodbye, platelet. Take care of yourself." Dawn had pleaded with him with those big blue eyes of hers and he'd nearly told her that he wouldn't go. Instead he'd brushed his mouth of hers lightly, and given her the first kiss she'd ever have. They'd stared at each other for a moment before he'd wrenched himself away from her. She'd scrubbed her tears from her cheeks with the backs of her hands and watched him go, her face expressionless. She just stood by the side of the road watching him, that young old face still haunted him

Spike's love for Dru, even his feelings for the Slayer ,were wrapped up in his own wants and desires. His affection for Dawn was different matter. She was his little sister, a friend, and something else that he couldn't define, all wrapped up into one package.

Dawn had often snuck over to his crypt to listen to him tell tales about his past. He could tell that he scared her but she seemed to delight in it as well. She liked being scared but still felt safe in his presence. Spike could be himself around her without any recriminations. He'd also shamelessly basked in her hero worship of him.

Spike had known about her crush on him. It had been obvious from the first time she'd been over to his place. The Slayer wanted him to protect her from Glory and he had, desperate to win Buffy's affection. Instead, he'd won the devotion of the youngest Summers' female. Spike had been absurdly pleased. His pride had taken so many hits since he'd become chipped, it felt good to be admired once more. Especially because her former crush was Xander. The Big Bad was just irresistible. Not that he had any intention of acting on it. She'd been far too young. But he'd flirted with her and teased her a bit, no harm in that.

Thrown back to the present, Spike pulled into the Summer's driveway. He surveyed the house as he made his way to the front door. It was if time had stood still, it appeared the same. He knocked. The door was pulled open by Buffy herself. "Spike." She smiled at him and made a sweeping motion with her hand. "Come in."

"Buffy." He acknowledged, forcing himself to walk inside. Spike winced at the involuntary pain in the vicinity of his chest at seeing the Slayer. She'd sent him an invitation to her wedding. She was marrying Riley, good 'ol Captain Cardboard. And in that instant -- simply seeing her standing there. Spike knew he still loved the Slayer. Once he started loving, it was hard for him to stop. Hell, he still loved Dru in his own way. He hoped that coming to Buffy's wedding, seeing her marry someone else would force him to move on. He looked around the room. "Looks the same." He strived to appear aloof.

"Yes, it still does." She studied the room. "I couldn't change anything after Mom died. It would have been wrong." Buffy said quietly. She was getting married in two days and it was hard for her to accept that her mother wouldn't be there to see it.

Spike took in a unnecessary but calming breath. "So, where's the bite -sized one?"

"Dawn? She's with Willow, they're running some errands for me right now. I wanted to be here when you arrived."

"Oh." He felt a stab of disappointment. Having Dawn here would stop him for saying something stupid. Like begging Buffy not to marry that lunkhead.

"To be honest, I'm amazed that you came. We didn't even know if we had the right place. We got your address from the Watcher's Council."

"Yeah, I've been living in Paris for two years now. Course you'd know where I was. Busy body Watchers. Would have been here sooner, but I had to take a bloody ship. Didn't want to get my handsome face singed by the sun on an airplane."

She smiled, studying him. "They said you still had the chip."

"Yeah, I'm still chipped." Spike didn't meet her eyes. In fact, he'd had the chip removed by a world-renowned neurosurgeon a year ago. The man had been intrigued by the technology and kept the bit of steel. Spike had been glad to be rid of it. But, he knew if he told Buffy, he might end up a dust pile on the carpet. He still hadn't been able to kill though. Too much time with the Scoobies and being chipped had stopped that desire. He only drained a non-lethal amount of blood from his victims now.

"Well, why don't you have a seat? I have some blood in the fridge."

"You normally keep blood around, Slayer?"

"No, but I thought you might be here and Angel is supposed to come."

"I'd like a mug of blood then. Thanks." Angel was going to be here? This was truly going to be the weekend from Hell.

The door swung open and Willow and a tall dark-haired woman entered. They were carrying bags from Bette's Bridal Boutique. "Buffy?" Willow called out. She saw Spike and grinned at him. "Hi there."

"Hello, pet. Where's your witch?"

"Tara? She's at home with our kitty, Samantha. She's got the sniffles." Willow set down her bag on the dining room table. The dark haired woman did the same. He still hadn't put two and two together. He noticed the young woman had nice legs and a trim waist, firm breasts, an enticing neck and. . .bleedin' Christ. . .it was Dawn.

Spike's mouth hung open. "Dawn, is that you?"

"Hello." She smiled at him, friendly but not with the same enthusiasm she used to show.

Spike went to her and took her hands in his own as looked at her."Bloody hell! What happened to you, nibblet?" Where did his mischievous woman child go?

She looked embarrassed as she studied her hands. "I grew up, Spike. I'll be 18 tomorrow." She pulled back from him and shook her head as she went into the kitchen. Dawn came back with cups of tea for the three women while Buffy carried a mug of blood for Spike.

Spike tried not to stare at Dawn as they sat down to talk in the living room. "Where'd you meet up with Cap. . .I mean, Riley again?" He asked Buffy, desperate for a topic of conversation even it was bleedin' G.I. Joe.

"He was stationed back on the Hellmouth two years ago when a group of very nasty demons moved to Sunnydale. We started dating again and. . .the rest is history."

"What about you, Red? What are you up to?" Spike still had a soft spot for the red haired witch. She'd had always been kind to him. He had a grudging respect for her formidable powers.

"I'm starting graduate school next year. Tara and I have an apartment now. We're pretty happy." She beamed at him, clearly happy with her life.

Dawn drank the last of her tea down and looked at her watch. "Gotta go, everyone. It's been nice seeing you, Spike." She smiled at him. "Be back later." She called to no one in particular as she flitted out the door.

"Where's she going?" Spike asked, he'd expected a warmer welcome from her.

"If I know Dawnie, she's probably got a date." Willow said.

"God only knows who the boy of the week is." Buffy groaned, shaking her head with parental tolerance.

"She's too young to be dating." Spike grumbled to himself. He sat back in his chair and listened half-heartedly to Buffy's wedding plans, his mind occasionally drifting to thoughts of the young dark haired woman his nibblet had grown up to be.

Later that evening, Dawn began climbing the trellis back up to her room. She was an hour past curfew and if Buffy found out she'd be furious. She had just reached her windowsill when a pale hand grasped her wrist and pulled her the rest of the way inside. "You're out late, aren't you?" A familiar British accent drawled.

"Yes." Her eyes dared Spike to say something about it.

"You should be more careful, nibblet." She still had the same big blue eyes and sweet face, though it wasn't childlike anymore. Spike looked down at her outfit. This was definitely no child. She wore black stockings, a black skirt that came to mid thigh, and a midnight blue satin shirt. "What are you wearing? You weren't wearing that when you left." His mouth suddenly went dry.

"No, I wasn't." Dawn said before she pushed past him into her room. She'd changed out of her jeans and t-shirt at her friend's place. "Now, it's my turn to ask questions. What are you doing in my room?"

"Your sis invited me to stay for a few nights. I just happened to be walking by and I noticed that you weren't all safe and sound in your bed. Got concerned."

"Did you tell Buffy?" She asked, a hint of worry entering her voice.

"Not yet." Spike grinned, he had her where he wanted her now. He sat down on her bed and patted it. "Why don't you tell me what you've been up to for the past couple of years?"

"Why should I? It's not like you care." She said as she crossed her arms. "I know why you're here, Spike."

"Really? And why am I here?"

"You're here to stop Buffy from marrying Riley. You're still in love with her."

Spike flinched under her scrutiny. The thought had entered his mind. He had visions of draining Riley dry before running off with the Slayer. "I'm not going to stop this wedding. I got over my Slayer obsession ages ago."

"Oh, please!" She rolled her eyes. " You're so transparent, I know that you still love her, I can see it when you look at her."

Spike frowned at her, this wasn't how this little conversation was supposed to be going. He wasn't sure what to do with this new ,confident Dawn. He changed tactics. "Come here, nibblet. Tell me what you did tonight."

An impish grin lit her eyes. "Wouldn't you like to know?"

Spike was captivated by the look on her face. So, there was a bit of his little partner in crime left in her. It gave him hope. "Do you remember the night we broke into Giles' shop?"

"How could I forget? I found out I was the Key that night." She said this without any bitterness. She'd come to terms with her unusual heritage. Dawn sat down next to him and curved her body so she faced him.

"Did you miss me, platelet?" Spike asked hopefully.

She tilted her head, considering , as a genuine smile spread over her exquisite face. "Maybe just a little bit." She bit her lip and then and launched herself into his arms.

Spike sighed in relief as he held her, grateful for her display of affection. "I missed you too."

She pulled back from him. "I'm glad you came. I did miss you, you know. You're kind of like . . . an uncle to me. Like my favorite uncle."

Uncle? She thinks of me as a bleedin' uncle? An old, wrinkly, sexless uncle? "And here I thought you still had a crush on me." He tried to keep the hopefulness out of his voice.

"Gross!" She hit his arm playfully.

Having a crush on him was. . .gross? Summers women were certainly bad for the ego. "Of course you don't." He shrugged, trying to appear dismissive of the whole matter.

"You're too old for me anyway. Anyway, I got over that a long time ago!" She looked at the bedside clock. "Well, I'd better get to bed. I have a hair and nails appointment with Buffy tomorrow. Did she tell you that I'm the maid of honor?"

"No, she didn't." Spike was still reeling from her news that he wasn't a sexy vampire in her book anymore. "Goodnight, nibblet. See you in the morning."

"Night, Spike." Dawn watched him walk out of her room in a daze. As soon as he shut the door, she laughed into her pillow. This was going better than she expected! Dawn had pestered Buffy until she invited Spike and he'd actually come. She'd thrown him for a loop with her appearance and her casual attitude towards him. Then she'd topped it off by saying that he was like an uncle to her. Dawn had always know that Spike enjoyed a challenge, he wanted to win a woman. Well, he was going to get his chance! Phase two of her plan began tomorrow night. She couldn't wait!

The next night was the wedding rehearsal. Dawn and the other attendants stood in the back of the church as they got into position. The best man was Xander. Anya and Willow were bridesmaids. On Riley's side, were his two attendants were Graham and Seth, a lieutenant from his regiment. Spike sat in the church pews along with Angel, Wesley, and Cordelia, and Tara. The couple had opted not to have a flower girl or ring bearer.

Dawn held Xander's arm as they walked up the aisle. The dark haired man bent down and whispered something in her ear that made her laugh. Spike felt himself bristle. What was the idiot trying to do? He should know better, he was a married man. Married to an ex-vengeance demon no less. Xander should leave beautiful, sweet, innocent things like Dawn alone. Spike hunched down in his seat. Bloody Hell! He was starting to sound like his bloody poof of a sire.

Spike watched the rehearsal in dismay. Things just couldn't get worse. Here he was watching the woman he loved marry an Initiative soldier. . .in a church no less! He had expected the pain to be worse. He just felt a little pang of regret now and then. Maybe it was a good idea to come here after all. If the Slayer wanted to marry a complete bore like Riley, who was he to stop her? Finally, he could get over it and move on with his unlife.

His good mood recovered, Spike, who was sitting behind Angel, slapped the soulled vampire on the back of the head. "I think you're slipping up, poof. I can see a square inch of your hair that you forgot to gel. Quick! Toss me the your travel-sized and I'll fix it before anyone notices."

Angel turned to glare at the younger vampire. "Why the hell are you here, anyway?"

"I was invited, just like you. You might say I'm a friend of the family." Cordelia and Wesley noticed the conversation and scooted out the other end of the pew, anxious to be away from the fire works that were about to begin.

Dawn came up to them then, her part in the rehearsal had just ended. The bride and groom were practicing their vows. "Hi, Angel." She said quietly, looking at him from under her lashes.

The dark haired vampire smiled at her. "Hello there, young lady." Angel put her fingers to his mouth and kissed them in a courtly gesture. Spike didn't know it but they played this game every time they saw one another. Angel would never dream of trying anything with her but he enjoyed her company.

Since Angel had his "epiphany" he'd been a much happier vampire. He liked to joke with people and have fun in general. Angel had even started to flirt with Dawn when she'd turned 16, it was a bit of harmless fun that made them both feel good. Being a man who enjoyed beauty in all its forms. . .whether it was art or poetry or even women, Angel appreciated her in purely artistic terms. Though he also enjoyed her mind. She was brilliant young woman and she never stopped making him laugh.

Spike glared at his sire. "What the hell are you doing? She's a child." He hissed furiously, while his demon roared. She belonged to him!

Angel, sensing a chance to pay his childe back for the earlier comment, sought Dawn's permission with his eyes. She smiled in answer. Angel caught her around the waist and placed her on his lap, then he wrapped his arms around her. "I don't know, Spike, she seems all grown up to me. " Angel nuzzled her ear.

She twisted around in his arms to look at him. "I am all grown up." She shook a finger at him. " And you better watch out, Mr. Vampire. Maybe I'll decide to come after you one of these days."

Angel's grin was pure decadence. "Anytime, little one." His even white teeth closed on her slender finger and nipped. She giggled in delight and pulled her finger out of his mouth slowly. When it was free he tilted his face up. "How about a kiss for your favorite vampire?" Dawn was leaning down to kiss Angel on the cheek when Spike stood up and pulled her off his sire.

"Come with me, nibblet." He rushed her past her oblivious sister and the slayerettes to the parking lot outside. "What the hell was that?" He said as she leaned casually against the wall.

"What?"

"You and Angel? Are you dating the poof?"

"Angel is. . .special to me."

"Are you dating him?" He demanded.

"Uncle Spike, I am not going to answer your questions. That's none of you business."

He groaned. Uncle Spike? How much could one vampire take? "Listen to me, Dawn, he's bad news. He ruined Drusilla's life, he ruined your sister's life, and I won't sit by and watch him hurt you too."

"Get over it. I know that you have this competitive thing with him. Let me reassure you. Angel will never take your place in my life."

"He won't?" For a moment a bright smile spread across his handsome face.

"Of course not. You're like my uncle or an older brother. You will always be special to me. I feel. . .different about him." The look on her face while she though about the vampire was blatantly suggestive. Spike's hands balled into fists as he felt his demon rage once more. She noticed his change in demeanor. "Why are you so angry?"

"I-" He broke off. "I-I'm just concerned about you, platelet."

"Don't be. I can take care of myself." She smiled brightly. " Now, why don't we sneak away from the rest of them and get one of those flowering onions you like so much?"

The promise of food and time spent alone with her swayed him. At least she wouldn't be with the poof. He sighed in defeat. "Lead the way."

At The Bronze they sat in a secluded table in the back. Dawn watched Spike wolf down the onion petals and spicy dip. She excused herself and made her way to the bar. "Two beers, please."

"You got I.D., missy?"

She held out her fake identification and the man handed her two light beers. She sauntered over to Spike and handed him one. The vampire stared at her. "How did you. . .?"

"I have my ways." She waggled her eyebrows at him. He grinned, despite himself at her audacity. She drank the beer easily, she'd done this before.

When he pulled out a cigarette and lit it, she asked him if she could try it. She took it from him and sucked in a lungful of smoke only to cough and choke it back out. "That's terrible."

"Well, I don't have living lungs so it isn't that bad for me." He was pleased to see that she didn't have this vice as well. He brought the smoke back to his own mouth, he could taste her on it.

When they had drank down their beers and finished off the onion, they walked home in companionable silence. At the front door, Spike noticed that the lights were off. "Buffy isn't going to be here tonight?"

"No, she'll probably spend the night with Riley." He didn't reply, just silently followed her inside. "Goodnight, Spike."

He pulled her to him as she started for the stairs. "I thought you and I would have a chat."

"What about?"

"About vampires and why you should never get involved with us." Spike was still angry about her behavior with Angel. He controlled it until they could be alone together.

She gulped. "I'm not involved with a vampire."

"Yet." He pushed her against the wall and pressed his body against hers. "But I have the distinct feeling that you will be soon." His lips settled on hers, feathering small kisses against her mouth. Then his tongue traced the seam of her lips. "I gave you your first kiss. Do you remember?" He whispered huskily.

"Yes." She opened her mouth to say more, but that was all the invitation he needed. His tongue invaded her mouth and entwined with her own. Spike moaned low in his throat. "Dawn."

She drew in a deep breath as he released her mouth. "Spike." she said softly.

"I want you." He said simply.

She looked up into his lust-glazed eyes, searching for something in them that she didn't see. "No, you don't. You just want to get back at Buffy. Or forget about her. Or something. It isn't about me at all." She roughly shoved him away and ran upstairs. Spike sunk to the carpet. Bloody hell! He was starting to fall for her. Spike closed his eyes, wondering if he could survive falling in love with another Summers' woman.

Spike stood at the bottom of the stairs. Buffy appeared to almost float down the staircase. She was swathed in white lace and pearls, she looked almost angelic. She was also radiant with joy. She took Giles arm who also stood at the bottom.

"Beautiful." Spike said. He meant it on purely aesthetic level.

"Isn't she?" Giles said, beaming. Proud as any father. He kissed Buffy's cheek.

"Thank you, guys." Her smile was genuine. The limousine pulled into the driveway. "That's our ride." She turned to Spike. "Sure you don't mind taking Dawn over to the church?"

"Of course not." Spike said calmly, trying to hide his delight. More willing than you know, Slayer!

"Good. She'll be down soon. The photographer is going to be there in twenty minutes to get some shots of the wedding party before the ceremony."

"I'll have her there in time, Buffy." Spike could see the Slayer was nervous all of sudden. He would be too if he were marrying that prat.

The Slayer and Watcher went outside while Spike jangled his car keys in his pocket. He hadn't been this anxious in years. He felt like a school boy on his first date. Spike was even wearing a suit bought especially for this occasion. He wondered if Dawn would like it. At the time he had hoped to impress the Slayer with it, but now. . .now he had other priorities. The suit was grey and he wore a white shirt underneath it with a blue tie. It was summer weight and accentuated his eyes and favored his light coloring -- or so the drooling saleswoman had told him when he'd bought it.

He wondered if he should go upstairs and look for Dawn. What was taking so long? Spike hoped she wasn't still angry with him for last night. She'd accused him of still being in love with the Slayer but he was certain that his love for her was waning. Dwindling away to nothing. "Spike." Dawn said in a neutral tone. She descended the stairs, regal as any queen before a loyal subject. She didn't appear angry at all about last night's debacle.

Spike let his eyes roam over her. He felt like he'd been sucker punched, she was ravishing. Dawn wore a pale blue, off the shoulder dress. It gave him an enticing view of her cleavage. Her lustrous dark hair was piled on top of her head with long curls laying around her face. She wore pearls in her ears and around her slender neck. "Stunning." Spike whispered, unable to take his eyes off her.

She smiled slightly. " You think so?" Spike could do no more than nod. "Good, I hope Angel likes it." Spike clenched his jaw. "What are you waiting for? Let's go." She made her way to the door purposefully. Dawn paused at the door and turned to him, squeezing his hand. His eyes shone with hope. Was she going to confess her feelings for him? "Spike, I'm sorry. I'm being really insensitive, aren't I?" She handed him a small packet of tissues from her tiny handbag. "Here. You might need these. This is going to be rough. After all -- the love of your unlife is getting married to someone else." She patted his hand. But I know you'll be alright, you're strong." This was said without rancor. Just a statement of fact.

Spike winced as he followed her out the door. Damn, he had a lot of work to do.

"I do." Buffy said, tears sparkled her eyes as she gazed lovingly at Riley. It was official. She was now Mrs. Buffy Finn. From his vantage point in the third pew, Spike felt relieved. A little sad. . . but mostly relieved. In his heart he had known it would never work out. Bloody ridiculous. He was musing about his 'attraction' to her. Maybe she had just been an attainable dream, something to worship from afar while he grieved the loss of his black goddess. Maybe it had happened because he couldn't kill her. If you can't beat 'em, shag em? He stifled a sardonic laugh. He had built her up in those years since he left, he'd been so damned afraid to come back here and face his love for her. But his love had dwindled away to almost nothing, dying embers. Whatever it was with the Slayer, it was sick and twisted. And a new fire had been sparked. Spike was free to move on.

The preacher turned to all the wedding guests. "May I present Mr. and Mrs. Riley Finn?"

His eyes settled on Dawn's lithe form at the front of the church. Yes, it was definitely time to move on.

They all filed into the aisles as the wedding party gathered into a receiving line. The sun had set and soon they would be at the Bronze which Buffy had rented for the reception. Spike found that he was behind Angel in the line. Great, he'd be hear for effin' forever while Peaches mouthed platitudes to everyone.

When they finally reached Buffy, Angel had tears in his eyes. "You look as beautiful as any angel." Buffy smiled at his play on words as he hauled her into a bone-cracking embrace. Spike heard him murmur. "Be happy, Buffy. You deserve it." Buffy was left with tears in her eyes. Tears of joy for the future and for the sadness of the past. Apparently, Spike wasn't the only one starting a new chapter in his life. Hmmm. . .was that what the poof was doing with Dawn? Trying to forget?

Angel shook Riley's hand and said in a menacing but airy tone. "You hurt her and I'll make you a late night snack. Soul or no soul. Understand?"

Riley gulped. "Heard you loud and clear."

Spike patted the bride's hand, anxious to get to Dawn. What would a human say? "It was a nice ceremony." Too many crosses and too much holy water for my taste but. . .nice. Buffy rolled her eyes, seeing the teasing banter for what it was. Spike was accepting her marriage. He smirked at her. "See you went ahead with that Wind Beneath my Wings song." Buffy blushed, reminded of their 'engagement' while under Willow's spell. "I hope you're very happy." He let that familiar smirk of his disappear into a real smile. Spike actually meant it.

"Thank you." She squeezed his arm.

Riley's greeting was less than friendly. "Guess the better man won, huh?" He said, puffing out his chest like a parading peacock.

"Well, since I'll never be good and I'm not a man -- I guess you're right." Spike grinned, showing his blunt teeth in a feral smile. He moved on, leaving Riley with his mouth open.

Next to Riley was Dawn. Angel was holding her hand as she twirled around to give him a full view of her dress. "Don't you look gorgeous today?" He kissed the top of her head and then raised a teasing eyebrow. "Good enough to eat." She laughed, delighted. "Save me dance at the reception?" He said, brushing a hand over her soft cheek.

"Of course." Said cheek was rapidly becoming tinged with a faint blush.

Spike placed a hand on Angel's back and shoved him , urging him further down the line. "Go on, poof. Plenty of other people to bore with your annoying voice."Angel glared but released Dawn and moved on to the next person. Spike looked at the object of his desire with an expectant expression. "Nibblet, why don't I give you a ride to the reception?"

Her face was placid. "Oh, I'm sorry, I can't. Angel's taking me."

"He is?" Spike glowered at the imposing form of his sire.

"Yes. But I'll probably see you there." Her eyes filled with concern. "Are you okay?" Spike felt like hauling her into a corner and showing her how 'okay' he was. But before he could respond she offered her hand to the next person in line. That was it. He'd just been summarily dismissed.

The party was in full swing. A ten piece band played a large collection of love melodies. All the Slayer's friends and family were in attendance. People were eating, talking, and dancing. Everything seemed to be going so well. Except for one thing.

Dawn was dancing with the Poof. Really dancing! There was noting polite or formal about it. Angel had her in his arms and she rested her head against his chest. There hips were pressed against one another and his hand rested against the bare portion of her back. The song was slow and melodic, his sire closed his eyes, obviously enjoying every moment. Dawn was too, judging from her relaxed pose.

Spike was furious. What is it with Angel? Why didn't he ever get his own women? First Drusilla, then Buffy, and now Dawn. His feelings for Dawn were developing rapidly. Spike realized that it was sudden. Unexpected even. But Spike was a vampire who gave in to his passions. And he wanted Dawn, passionately.

He tossed back his whiskey and made his way to the dance floor. He tapped Angel on the shoulder. "May I cut in?"

Angel spared him the barest of glances. "No." He danced Dawn away. Undeterred, Spike followed them. "We can do this two ways, Peaches. I ask you again and you say yes or you say no and I wipe the bloody floor with you."

Dawn spoke up. "I'm not letting the two of you make a scene at Buffy's wedding. Of course you can cut in." Spike gave his sire a triumphant smile. Angel glowered at his childe. Dawn offered Angel's hand to Spike and walked away, trying to hide the huge grin on her face. They backed away from each other immediately, disgusted. Spike looked after with a longing expression. Angel was watching her with pride. That's my girl! Give him run for his money.

Later on that evening, Dawn was smiling to herself as she sipped a cup of punch. She had managed to avoid the tenacious vampire all evening. She still wanted him, but she wouldn't get him by default. Spike was probably feeling vulnerable tonight. She didn't want to take advantage of him. Dawn had no desire to be Spike's revenge on her sister. She shuddered when she though of Harmony, how cruel he had been to the vampiress.

Riley came up beside her. "Penny for your thoughts, little sister?"

Riley. Dawn gave him her best 'happy to see you' smile. She truly didn't know what her sister saw in him. Who would want soldier boy when you could have a sexy, dangerous, 'completely in love with only you' vampire? But Dawn did like him, he was always nice to her. "Just thinking about my love life. Wondering if I'll ever have a wedding like this."

Riley put his arm around her. "Of course you will, Dawnie. Pretty girl like you, you'll have 'em lined around the block. I'll have to beat them off of you with a stick. Don't you worry about that. "

Dawn couldn't help but laugh. His simple 'aw shucks, Iowa' way about things was almost endearing. Almost. "Well, thanks."

"Hey, why don't you dance with your brother-in-law since my beautiful bride is occupied." He pointed to the dance floor where Buffy was dancing with Xander.

"Okay." She took his arm and he led them to the dance floor.

An old swing song came on and Riley winked at her. "Follow my lead." She did. He took her hands and soon they looked as if they did this every day of the week. He even rolled her over his back and slid her through his legs. A crowd gathered around them, laughing and clapping in time to the music. Even Buffy was whistling and shouting encouragement to them.

When it was over, the band leader spoke into the microphone. "That was Riley Finn, the groom and the maid of honor, Dawn Summers. That was some fancy footwork out there guys!"

Riley and Dawn bowed and then went to Buffy. Her sister embraced her. "I'm so glad that you and Riley are getting along."

Dawn smiled. "Me too. He's quite a dancer."

Riley kissed his wife. "You want me to show you some moves?"

Dawn wisely left before the innuendo made her want to lose her dinner. She bumped into Spike. He wrapped his arms around her and drew her outside in the alleyway. "What's going on with you and Riley? And with Angel, for that matter?"

He thought that she. . .ewww! "I'm not sleeping with Riley. That's disgusting, Spike. And my feelings for Angel are none of your business." Dawn had hoped to provoke his jealousy with Angel but thinking that she had designs on Riley was going too far.

"You can forget all about soldier boy and the poof too! You're mine! Understand?" Before Dawn knew what was happening he crushed her mouth with his. It was violent at first, but then he gentled. Spike entreated her lips to open and then he slid his tongue inside to stroke her mouth.

When they parted, Spike put a finger to her mouth. "I'm not going to apologize, nibblet. I've wanted to do that all day. But I'm sorry for accusing you, you're innocent. You love Buffy and would never hurt her by dating Captain Cardboard." His expression hardened. " But what about the poof?"

Dawn was about to respond when a V'ilosh demon appeared behind Spike, it seized the vampire and threw him against the wall. Before he could get up, Dawn had punched the demon soundly in the nose. She kicked it in the chest, sending it the ground and then punched it again just for daring to hit Spike. She quickly slid off her high heel and embedded it deep in the demon's chest, killing it.

Spike's mouth opened. "You're a-"

"Slayer? Yes, I was called just after you left."

Spike stood up. She stood with baited breath, waiting for what he would say. "I need a drink."

Angel put his arm around Dawn as they watched Spike who sat at the bar, his back to them. He was getting lost in a bottle of tequila. After she defeated the demon, he had announced he wanted a drink and walked inside, unable or unwilling to listen to Dawn's explanations.

"You told him, didn't you?" Angel said.

"Yeah, didn't have a chance to explain, he just freaked out. I couldn't help it though, a demon attacked us when-"

"A demon? What kind of demon? Are you alright?" He took her by the shoulders, searching her face and arms for bruises and abrasions.

"I'm fine, Angel. I've got Slayer strength, remember?" She looked down at her shoe, some demon gunk was still visible even though she'd scrubbed it thoroughly. "Killed him with my high heel." She grinned at her mentor.

"With your shoe?" He smiled broadly. "Clever move. Very 'double- O- seven-ish' of you." He looked down at her high heels and the goo. He made a face, noting the revolting odor wafting up from it. An idea struck him. "Maybe we could fit some of your shoes with stakes, that way you could-"

"Angel." Dawn's voice held a warning.

"What?" He asked innocently. The vampire loved baiting her, she was so much fun to argue with.

"I'm not going to put stakes on my Prada shoes."

"Not even to protect mankind?"

Dawn saw the teasing glint in his eyes. She stepped forward, invading the vampire's personal space. "You wanna make something of it? " She pushed a finger into his chest. "Huh? You think you can take me?"

He'd taught her all she knew about fighting. Buffy sent Dawn to L.A. so she could learn with Angel. While Buffy had respected Dawn's right to learn battle techniques, she didn't want to be the one teaching her. Buffy was afraid that she wouldn't be objective, would go too easy on Dawn and, therefore, get her killed in a fight. She knew that Angel was more than capable of training her.

Angel got closer, looming over his pupil. Using his vampiric speed, he caught her arm and pulled her back against his chest so fast she didn't even have time to react. He bent his mouth to her throat, but instead of biting he said. "You still have a lot to learn, young lady."

Dawn glared up at him. "If I hadn't been in high heels, or wasn't worrying about Spike-"

"You always have to be ready, Dawn." Angel said this as fact, a tinge of sadness too.

"I know." Dawn sighed and he released her. She looked back at him with a serene face. In a split second, she reached out, grabbed the arm that had been holding her against him and flipped him onto the floor. Before he had a chance to voice a sound of protest, she was sitting on his stomach with a stake pulled from his jacket pressed above his heart. "So do you."

Spike tossed down the last of his tequila and turned around. He walked over to them both, unable to see well in the darkened room filled with dancing humans. He parted the crowd. "Alright, Platelet. Explanation ti-What in the bloody hell are you doing, you bloody poofter!"

Dawn bit her lip to keep the laughter inside. From his angle, Spike couldn't see the stake gripped in her hand. She let it slide to the floor. Angel caught the movement and smiled. Looked like serious time was over. Playtime had just begun and mind games were his favorite pastime. He casually tucked the stake into his sleeve and slid his hand up to rest on Dawn's hip. She grinned at him.

"Um, Dawn. No matter what your sister might have told you, straddling Angel is not part and parcel of the whole Slayer gig."

"Oh this isn't the Slayer part of her, William. This is more of an after-hours activity. Especially after a good fight." Angel grinned and tickled her a little causing her to squirm. The blind rage that covered his favorite childe's face was priceless.

"Sorry, Angelus. She doesn't seem like your type. What with her being a brunette that still has her sanity and all. And I don't think she's ever even seen a convent."

Dawn's eyes grew wide. There were not words to describe the look on Angel's face. He caught her look, and a mischievous grin spread over his features. Suddenly he remembered that she was the reason he was getting his favorite coat all dirty on the floor. He gripped her waist with his other hand and smirked over her shoulder at Spike. "No, she's definitely not a nun." Then he tugged her sharply to him, her hands splaying over his shoulders for balanced and kissed her. It was a close-mouthed kiss, just for show. But it was very showy.

Spike growled and stalked forward. He took hold of her shoulders and pulled her off his sire. He tugged her behind him and turned in full game face to Angel. "If you ever touch her again . . ."

"Hey, guys. Is there a problem?" Riley stood feet spread apart, arms behind his back in his best Captain America pose. Both Angel and Spike growled at him. "I don't think it's appropriate for you to be lying on the floor."

"Oh, piss off." Spike looked disgusted. Angel hopped up from the floor, his ridges still in place as he dusted himself off.

"What do you think ,Spike, want a midnight snack?" Riley shuddered but refused to back down.

Dawn shoved them both aside, tired of lurking behind the undead at parties. Riley touched her cheek ignoring the menacing growls. "Are you alright?" She nodded. Are they bothering you?" She shook her head. "Would you like to come sit with your sister and me?"

"I'm fine. I can take care of myself." She said honestly.

"Look, I know you're a Slayer now and you think you can handle vampires, but maybe you should accept help every now and then, or you might get in over your head."

Dawn's eyes flashed, she was Slayer. She knew how to handle herself and she resented Riley's attempts to protect her. "Well, from what I heard you know exactly how to handle vamps. . .or is that the other way around?" Buffy had confessed Riley's need to be bitten to her a year ago. She'd been disgusted but her sister had explained that he had therapy to rid him of the predilection.

"That was rude." Riley said, a dour look on his face.

"But funny." Spike added. Riley continued to stand there. Angel looked confused, unsure of what they were referring to.

"I'm sorry." Dawn said to Riley. "But I'm fine. I don't need your help."

Riley took a deep breath and walked away. "And they called Buffy 'Bitchy.'"

"You know what hurt me the most, Spike?" Dawn said loudly, projecting toward Riley's retreating form. "When people mutter about me as they walk away."

Riley turned to look back at her, a hurt look on his face. Dawn looked chagrined for a moment, then walked over to him and gave him a hug. "I'm just playing." She kissed his cheek and he smiled. "If I really didn't like you, I would have let you be vamped and then staked you before I let you marry my sister." She grinned and patted his cheek before she returned to her companions.

Spike looked over at his sire. "What do y'say you go get Lil' Bit a piece of cake, Peaches. I'm sure she's starving." Angel was about to object when he caught the pleased look in Dawn's eye. He shrugged and headed for the cake platter. Spike grabbed Dawn's hand and headed for the exit.

Spike lit a cigarette and leaned against the wall. "No other vamps around here to straddle, platelet. No excuses not to explain what the hell is going on."

"That's not exactly true, Uncle Spike."

"What, you have more excuses?"

"No, there's still a vamp around here to straddle." Spike dropped his smoke.

"What-why, who . . .what?"

"Relax, I was just teasing you. Gross. Like I would straddle you, Uncle-"

He clapped a hand over her mouth. "Call me that one more time, and I'm going to show you exactly how un-Uncle like I really am." She made a small 'Eeep!' sound an he let go. "Now, explain."

Dawn sat down gingerly on a stack of crates. "Get comfortable. We might be here a while, Un--" Spike held up a finger. "Spike, I mean." She took a moment to order her thoughts. "Well, you remember how the monks made me from Buffy, right?"

"I thought they just made you human, squished The Key into a body."

"They did, but they needed a body to 'squish' it into. You just can't find one anywhere."

"So, you're really Buffy's daughter?" Spike bit his lip. Multi-generational attractions to Summers women? Well, it wasn't unheard of in vampire society. "So, who's the dad?" If she said, Riley, so help him. . .

"Faith."

"What? Isn't that bint another Slayer?"

"Yep."

Now, he was really confused."And female?"

"From what Giles discovered, I was made from the' Slayer'. Since there are two natural Slayers at this point in time -- which has never happened before, I was made from both of them." Spike took a drag from his cigarette, she could almost see his mind trying to wrap around the concept. "Apparently, all Slayers share DNA. The Watcher's Council studied Buffy, Faith, and I. They asked us to donate hair and skin samples. From what they found out, it must have been a magickal conception spell that they did.I 'm female, I have two X chromosomes so no Y chromosome was needed"

"This is just too much, Platelet." Spike frowned.

"You're telling me. Try finding an appropriate greeting card on Father's Day."

"Why were you made a teenager?"

"Giles believes that the monks assumed I would be too vulnerable. They wanted me to share Buffy's powers, be activated as another Slayer."

"Did he find out when you were. . .uh, born? How did he find all this out, by the way?"

"The Watcher's Council found a text in a old monastery in England, a monk unhappy with his order brought it to their attention. His groups was an offshoot of the same religious group who made me. They recorded as much information as possible on The Key. As for when, the book says that I was made two years before I showed up in Sunnydale. The book said I grew at 7 times the normal rate. But, they wiped my memories and gave me new ones of Buffy and Sunnydale. "

Spike inhaled deeply. "That's one hell of a story, Bit." She shrugged, having accepted her lot in life. " So, how did you find out you were able to slay?"

"I convinced Buffy to take me on patrol soon after you left. She was completely paranoid the whole time, reacting to every noise. We were attacked by a big groups of vamps, new gang in town I guess. Buffy screamed at me to run but there was no place to go, they surrounded us." She stared at him. "It was so strange, Spike. It was like my body just came alive. It knew what to do. Before I knew it, I had killed half of them and so had Buffy. By then, she was super freaked out though and dragged me to Giles' apartment for a huge analysis of the fight. Giles called the council and told them about the situation, we found out a year later where I really came from."

Right then, Angel poked his head out the door. He had a small dessert plate heaped with white wedding cake. "There you are."

"God damn it, poof. Can't you see we want to be alone?"

Angel rolled his eyes. "Huddled in an alley? You know how to treat a girl right, William."

"I didn't hear the lady complaining, Peaches." Spike said smugly.

Angel looked at Dawn, ready to leave if she wanted more alone time. In truth, he resented being ditched but it was coupled with a desire to run interference for her with Spike. The blond vampire could be hard to take. "Dawn?"

The brunette was distracted by the cake. "God, I am so hungry." She took it out of Angel's hand and took a forkful of it into her mouth. "Yum, loaded with sugar."

Angel laughed, she often craved sweets after she trained with him. He kept chocolate bars around for just that purpose. "Good, huh?"

"Can we have cake next time we train?"

"Absolutely." He enjoyed seeing his child seething.

"He trains you?"

"Yep." Dawn said, around a mouthful of cake. "Pretty good too."

Spike stepped closer to Dawn. "Yes, I'm sure the poof's all full of the ancient broody art of Tai Chi." He took the hand holding the fork, scooped up some cake and placed it in his mouth. After he swallowed, he regarded her out of one eye. "Does he make you chant?"

Angel rolled his eyes. "Dawn? After we get done with the patrol tonight-"

"What are you, her new Watcher? Should I buy you some tweed and glasses?"

Spike glared at him. "Nevermind. I'm patrolling with her tonight, so you can bugger off."

Angel glared right back. Then he remembered something and smiled. "In anycase, princess. I'll be over after patrol. We can get your stuff loaded in my car and make an early start for L.A."

"But we can't make it there before sunrise." She pointed out.

"I've got in handled. There's a beautiful hotel we're going to stop at. Indoor pool, room service, balcony . . . consider it a small vacation before the heavy training begins again." He pulled her into a brief, genuine hug, Spike forgotten. "I have a surprise for you."

"And we all know what it is." Spike grumbled. Dawn sent him a questioning look. "Well, what do you think he wants to take you to a hotel for? Hair gel lessons?"

Spike was just getting warmed up for a huge tirade. "And what's this about packing up your stuff? Aren't you a little too young to be shacking up? I mean, I know he's loaded, but an undead sugar daddy? He's trying to bribe you with cake, for christ's sake! And you know what's going to happen when you give in to his perverted geezer wishes? He'll turn into a raving psychotic! He'll be all, Let's find a demon to suck L.A. into Hell for the holidays and killing household pets all willy-nilly. Then, you'll find out he's into S and M-"

"Spike!"

"Well, it's true, Angelus. Can you explain how there just happened to be chains in an abandoned mansion?"

Dawn looked a little queasy. She pulled out of Angel's arms, quirking an eyebrow at him. He shrugged. "I fight demons."

"But first you chain them to your bed."

"Hey, the last person I chained up was Faith-"

"Oh, that's a declaration of innocence if I ever heard one." Spike tossed back.

Dawn's eyes sparkled with an ornery glint, she loved to razz Angel. Especially about sex, he just got so frazzled. "I thought you said that was just part of a training session . . .to think all that time, you just wanted to see me tied up. You sicko!"

"Hey, that was part of training. . .you needed to know how to get away if you were captured by someone." Angel sputtered.

Dawn smiled. "Well, I can buy that." She remembered something about his place. "But why are there two loops on your bed, big enough to thread chain-"

"Those came with the bed."

"But what about the-"

"I think we've found out enough about Angel's deviant sexual impulses. " Spike said as he took Dawn's arm and they walked off giggling, leaving Angel still attempting a denial, an empty cake plate in his hand.

"Come on, Spike. I have to say goodbye to my sister before I bail for patrol." Dawn tossed a look and a wave over her shoulder. "See you when I get back, Angel!"

Angel stared after them, slightly perplexed. A hand touched his shoulder and he jumped. He spun around and saw a flash of red hair. "Willow, if my heart still beat it would have stopped. You shouldn't sneak up on creatures of the night."

"Hi, Angel." Willow tucked an errant piece of hair behind her ear. "Was that Dawn I heard you talking to?"

"And Spike." He nodded.

"What's going on between the two of them?"

"I have no idea what you're talking about."

"Uh-huh. Then let's talk about something you do know. What's going on with you and her?"

"Absolutely nothing. Outside of training." He smiled. "I trained with Buffy, but there was always tension. And she always kicked my ass. Dawn is more mellow. She listens to me." Angel sat down on the curb. "I should see her and think 'Buffy'. But I don't. I'm comfortable around her."

Willow smiled sympathetically and sat down next to him. "Why do you think that is?"

Angel swallowed as a dark look came over his face. "I had a little sister. She was the only member of my family I could stand." He sighed. "Being around Dawn is like a chance to make up for . . ." He took a deep breath and shrugged. "And you thought you had gotten rid of the broody me."

"How's the wedding been for you?" Sure, it was another painful subject, but it didn't involve the eating of close relatives. At least not yet.

"Not nearly as painful as I thought. I've been keeping busy for one. And for two, I accepted the fact that Buffy and I can't be together a long time ago. And recently, I've come to the conclusion that I don't want to be with her. Not anymore."

Willow smiled and snuggled close to his side. "Yeah, I came to that conclusion about Oz, too. Of course, that was only after I realized I was gay." Her eyes grew wide. "Angel, is there anything you want to tell me?"

"Yes." His deep brown eyes swept downward, increasing the drama of the event. "I have a thing for Xander. When he calls me 'deadboy', I just-" He winked to convey his meaning. Their mutual laughter echoed throughout the alleyway.

"Goodnight, Buffy. I'm sorry I have to leave soon but-"

"We've been over that before, Dawnie. You don't have to apologize for Slayer duties." She hugged her younger sister. "Have fun with Angel." She smiled with nostalgia. "Make sure you kick his ass for me, okay?" Spike watched the exchange from a few feet away, fascinated by the interaction between the two of them.

"I'll wipe the floor with him." Dawn promised. She turned to Riley. "Hope you guys have a good time. Don't worry about anything, we'll keep things under control."

"You bet your ass we will." Dawn turned to see Faith strutting up to them. "Hey D." She embraced the younger girl tenderly. "How's my favorite girl?"

"Just fine, Faith. Sorry you couldn't make it to the ceremony."

"Damn demon uprising. You think they'd pick a better time. I made 'em pay for it though." She looked at Buffy. Tension was sill palpable between the two Slayers. "B."

"Faith."

"Congratulations." She offered. Then, she pulled a battered envelope from her leather jacket. "It's not much, but I hope you like it." She had gotten them a gift certificate to a chain store. Sensing the tension in the air, Faith looked around. "Well, I'll go mingle." She focused on Dawn again. "Catch you later, D. We'll do some bonding."

Dawn looked at Buffy again. "Wish you guys would get a long."

Buffy smiled wryly. "Being the child of 'divorced' parents is never easy."Dawn felt a tear slide down her face, in many ways she, Buffy, and Faith were a divorced family.

Today wasn't a day for sadness though. She took a deep breath."Have fun. I mean it. No worrying about this place. If the hellmouth mouths off to me, it'll be sorry."

"I love you, Dawnie. Be safe, okay? No heroics."

"No heroics. I promise."

Her sister brushed a hand over her face. "Happy birthday." Buffy whispered softly.

"You remembered!"

"Think I could forget your big 18^th birthday?"

"Of course not." Though, she actually had given the stress of the wedding.

"You have a surprise waiting for you in the living room."

"Oooh! Hints?"

"You'll have to wait and see." She embraced Dawn once more. "I love you, kiddo. See you soon."

"Bye, Buffy. I love you too." She looked at Riley and embraced him briefly. "And you too, brother-in-law." She punched his arm playfully, Riley winced. She didn't know how strong she was sometimes. Damn Slayer strength.

Spike emerged from his viewing place. "Slayer, don't worry about Dawn. I'm going to take care of her."

Buffy looked at her sister speculatively, noting the flush on her cheeks. She embraced Spike in a hug that startled him. She sincerely hoped that Dawn's attraction to Spike would be short-lived. "Hurt her and your dust."

"Got the picture, Slayer."

"Thought you would." She thumped his back a little too hard as she released him. He turned to Riley. "Need any pointers for your honeymoon? A diagram maybe?"

Dawn wisely took Spike's arm. "Let's go." She waved to the newlyweds as she ushered Spike over to where Faith was eating. "Faith, this is-"

"I know who he is."

"You do?" Spike asked. "I never tried to kill you."

"No, you tried to-" She cut herself off, remembering Dawn. "We met while I was in Buffy's body. . .here as a matter of fact."

Spike thought back. "Bloody hell! That was you! Why didn't anyone ever give me a soddin' heads up about that?"

"You guys met before?" Dawn asked, incredulous. She was shocked that Spike wasn't dust. Faith was all for staking first and asking questions later.

"Uh, yeah, bit. We talked about. . .champagne. Yeah, that's it."

"Uh huh." Dawn said. Then she looked at the blond vampire with knowing eyes. "And the Buffy bot was only for. . . playing checkers? Isn't that what Tara said?" She looked at Faith, who seemed vaguely disgusted by Spike or her behavior. She wasn't sure which.

"It was no big, D. Water under the bridge." She noticed their hurry. " Where you two headed?"

"Patrolling. Are you up to it?" Dawn shifted. She really wanted Faith to come along, but she knew Faith would probably be a little tired. "I mean, after the demon uprising and public transportation. Are you good to go?

Faith smiled and Spike frowned. He was hoping for some one on one time with Dawn. The more 'one on one' it was, the better. Faith looked the vampire over. Then she turned to her 'daughter'. "Five by five."

Spike cursed as he followed the two out of the Bronze. "Too many bleedin' slayers in this town."

"Check this out!" Dawn yelled to Faith as she kicked a vampire savagely and it fell back over a tombstone. She pulled a stake from her weapons bag and vaulted over the marble structure to land on top of the vampire. "Angel taught me this move." She said as she straddled the vampire and pressed his arms down with her knees. She pushed the wood through his heart and he exploded in a cloud of dust. Another grabbed her from behind, his arms winding around her neck and starving off her air supply. She kicked her legs up and hit him in the head. He staggered back and she whirled to plunge a stake through his chest.

Dawn was in no danger right now. She was in her element, sure of herself and flawless in her technique. She made short work of every vampire that attacked her. The older Slayer looked on with a proud smile on her face. Her 'daughter' was a force to be reckoned with.

As another vampire approached the younger Slayer, Faith scrutinized Spike carefully. His eyes were glazed as he watched Dawn's fluid movements. He seemed awestruck, enraptured by her. Turning to her 'daughter', she watched her break the bloodsucker's arm as he grabbed for her and then cut his head off with her ax. Spike's eyes were smoky, his fists were clenched."You got it bad, don't you, blood boy?"

"What's that, ducks?" Spike said, distracted a glimpse of Dawn's trim stomach as she did a back flip and sprang upon another vampire.

"D. I'm talking about my girl." She waved a hand in front of his face.

Spike reluctantly faced the Slayer. "Shouldn't you be, uh. . . slaying something?" He really didn't want to talk about this with her. For all intents and purposes she was another Buffy, an obstacle to being with Dawn.

"My girl can handle herself. Now, wanna tell me what you're up to?"

"Nothing. Me and the nibblet, we're only old friends." Well, that was true from Dawn's perspective. He intended to change her way of thinking.

Friends, my ass. Faith thought. She looked the vampire over carefully. Hmmm. . . he was hot. No doubt about that. But she never would of thought that Dawn would be into a bad boy . She'd get the full story from her later on tonight before she made any judgements. Not that she was wild about her 'daughter' dating a vampire. Though she knew from personal experience what it was like to want to be with a vampire.

When Dawn was finished, she turned to Faith and dropped her ax to the ground. Her hair flew around her face in a dark cloud, her blue eyes were snapping with fire. She could feel the adrenaline coursing through her veins. "Well, what did you think? Have I gotten any better?"

"Much better, D. You were terrific." She pulled the younger Slayer into a big hug. " Can you show me how to do that flippy thing you did?"

"I have a better idea." She looked at Faith hopefully. She never got to see the dark haired Slayer enough, she always missed her. " Why don't you come to L.A. with me? Angel will teach you like he's teaching me."

Faith tried to not show her discomfort. Being with Angel again? Fighting with Angel again? Even for a training exercise. "I don't know, D. I'm supposed to guard the Hellmouth. "

"We're only going to L.A., not the moon. It's not that far away! If something comes up, we'll only be a couple of hours away." Faith still looked doubtful. " Besides, when did you start being Ms. Responsible?"

Faith grinned. Sure she had done her time in prison. In fact, Faith was in the process of atoning for her many sins. But she was still able to live in the moment. She made sure that she always had fun in life. Always appreciated every day she was given. "I'll think about it."

"Okay." Dawn smiled, that usually meant 'yes.' She turned to Spike. He was eyeing her, an odd light in his eyes. "What's wrong with you?"

Spike tried to speak, not a sound came out. He cleared his throat instead. "Nothin', nibblet." Spike shook his head, trying to refocus. "I guess Peaches has been doing a good job at training you." He said grudgingly.

Just then a vampire grabbed Dawn from behind, the younger Slayer immediately went into action. She bent over at the waist, throwing the vamp off balance as he struggled to maintain his hold on her. Faith retrieved the ax Dawn had dropped at their feet and chopped the thing's head off. She brushed the ash off of her leggings and t-shirt. She had changed into some patrolling clothes earlier in the night. "Ewww. God, I hate that." Then she flashed a smile."Thanks, Faith."

"No big, D. Just remember, I always got your back." She said, smiling fondly at the younger girl. Her eyes surveyed the graveyard. "I think we did enough damage for one night. Let's get out of this place. Hey, are you hungry?"

"Starving." Dawn said, putting an arm around her waist as they went to the Summers' home.

"You think there's any wedding cake left?'

Dawn groaned. " God, I hope so."

Spike pulled a packet of cigarettes from his coat with shaking hands as he watched the two brunettes walk away. He pulled one smoke out and managed to get his lighter working though his hands still twitched. He lit it and inhaled deeply, the familiar flavor soothed him. "Bloody. Sodding. Everlasting. Hell." He muttered as Spike, once again, walked behind the two Slayers.

Angel sat at the dining room table, a plateful of cake in front of him. He put one finger into the butter cream icing and put it into his mouth experimentally. He smiled. Food had gotten much better over the years. He put another finger in and lifted it into his mouth.

"Well, what do you know? Peaches and cream." Spike said. "I thought you didn't eat food. Part of the whole guilt thing, y'know. I killed too many people to eat some cake."

"Spike?"

"Yes, peaches?" Angel raised a forkful of cake and flung it, splattering it all over the front of Spike's duster. Spike's mouth dropped open and Angel laughed wickedly. His childe hadn't been around to witness Angel's transformation into a less guilt-ridden vamp, he didn't even know how to act around him.

Spike clenched his jaw. "You're gonna pay for that, peaches." After he got the stuff off his leather coat. He walked to the table and grabbed a napkin and began swiping at the white mess furiously.

Dawn snickered at the sight. "Have you been having a food fight again, Angel?"

"A one-sided food fight."

With the ease of familiarity she hopped up on the table next to Angel and intercepted the bite of cake that was on the way to his mouth. He smiled indulgently. She looked around at the various stacks of wedding gifts and platters of food. "Good, there's more food."

Faith walked in the doorway and Angel's smile wavered. "Hello, Faith." He said quietly.

"Hi, Angel." She said uncomfortably. Seeing him again was harder than she thought. He had 'sponsored' her and had been a support while she was in prison. In fact, she'd become quite dependent on his visits, looked forward to them. In her eyes, he really was an angel. And then she'd fallen in love with him.

True, she'd always wanted Angel. But she was never sure whether that stemmed from her desire to beat Buffy at something or if it was because he was physically attractive. Faith had always learned early on to not get involved. The only exception to that rule was Dawn, but she almost didn't count because she was a part of Faith. The best part. Feeling anything but gratitude or desire for Angel was unthinkable and scared the hell out of her. That's why, when she'd gotten out of prison she got far away from him.

She'd gone back to Boston, in fact, and had been given a new Watcher by the council. It had been hard at first. They made her pass tests on her agility , strength, and knowledge of weapons. Then they completed a psychological profile on her. Evidently, they liked what they saw. She'd redeemed herself in their eyes. And she forgave them for trying to kill her.

"How have you been, Faith?" Angel said, his face was cool mask of polite concern. Inside, he was a mess. The dark haired Slayer haunted him. She was never out of his thoughts. She fascinated him. It wasn't the same as his feeling for Buffy. This young woman appealed to both his best and beast like natures. But he wouldn't. . .couldn't. . .act on his desires. It was best to remain remote from her.

Spike watched this with amusement. Something was going on with the Slayer and his sire. But what? Hmmm. . .he'd have to watch them closely. "I smell a chicken." He looked straight at Angel.

"What do you mean by that?" Angel growled.

Spike grinned and sniffed the air. "Chicken wings, peaches. Spicy, buffalo ones to be exact. Why? Did you think I meant something else?" He raised an eyebrow and looked down his nose at Angel. "But. . .if the wings fit, Angel. . ."

"Why don't we just get some food?" Dawn interrupted quickly, before a fight could break out. The two vampires nodded reluctantly. She picked up some platters of food and headed to the kitchen to heat up meat. Faith followed her into the room.

"What was all that about, Faith?"

"What? Those guys? They've been fighting for a century."

"No, I'm talking about you and Angel. Why the stare-fest?"

Was it obvious? "Oh, we just. . .uh. . .don't get along that well."

Dawn's eyes twinkled but she'd go along with the program. "I see."

"Speaking of vampires. What's up with Spike?"

"Angel's helping me get him."

"For what?"

Dawn blushed. "I've got a crush on him, always have. I wanted to make him jealous so he'd go after me. So far, it's working."

"Angel's helping you with this?" She laughed. "I didn't think he had it in him."

"He's pretending to have a thing for me. But, he and I are just friends." She wanted Faith to be clear on that.

Faith grinned. "Maybe I will go along. This might be too good to miss. So, how long do you think it'll take blondie to realize what's going on?"

"Did I tell you that Faith and I met before?"

"Really? I'm surprised your still alive."

"I'm not. She wanted me, but not dead."

"What are you talking about?" Angel said, managing to keep his voice down.

"Ask her." Spike smiled slowly as he popped a cheese cube in his mouth.

Faith and Dawn came out, baring trays of food and the group ate. Even Angel. He'd come to like food, though he didn't indulge himself everyday. When they were through, and rubbing their overstuffed stomachs, Dawn jumped up. "Buffy!"

"Where?" Spike shouted, looking over his shoulder.

"No, she left me a gift in the living room." She raced down the hall and stopped when she saw a small velvet box and card on the coffee table. The rest of the group filed in behind her. She read the card, at the bottom of it Buffy wrote "Just remember, we're with you always." She opened it to reveal a heart-shaped silver locket. Inside the locket, were two tiny pictures of Buffy and Faith. It left tears in her eyes. She gave it to Faith to see. The Slayer had tears in her eyes, too. She pulled Dawn close and kissed the top of her head. "Love you, D."

"I love you, too." She kissed her cheek. Then, Dawn took the locket over to Angel and he smiled when he saw what Buffy had done. She was about to sit down when Spike cleared his throat. She took the hint and showed him as well.

"Let me put that on for you, sweet bit." She turned around and swept her hair off her neck. It left her neck bare and exposed to his gaze. It took all of Spike's will power not to vamp out and taste her right then. He bet her blood would be delicious. Not that he wanted to harm her, sometimes a vampire's bite could be quite pleasurable. He managed to put it around her neck and fasten it swiftly. "There you go."

"Thanks." She felt herself blushing a little. She turned to Angel and saw that his jaw was clenched. He knew what Spike was thinking about doing. He pulled Dawn into his embrace, stroking her neck. It was a not-so-subtle message to Spike of his ownership of the girl.

Faith cleared her throat. "Well, I have a gift for you too, D." She reached into her jacket and pulled out a newspaper wrapped object. Dawn moved out of Angel's arms and took it eagerly.

She opened it and found a large knife. The handle was ornate, marked with many symbols. The blade held a sapphire in the center. Dawn lifted it to her nose, inhaling the scent of steel, it was raw power. "I love it."

Faith smiled, seeing that she was pleased. "Took it off of a wicked-nasty demon. The color of the stone reminded me of your eyes." She ducked her head. "Anyway, I just thought you'd like it."

"I do!" She bounded over and hugged Faith tightly.

"I have a gift for you too, bit." Spike said.

"You didn't have to, Spike." But she was thrilled. He'd remembered her birthday.

He walked upstairs to the room he'd been staying in and retrieved a big box. He came down again and offered it to her. The box was wrapped in a red foil paper and she tore through it eagerly. She popped the lid off the box to find a leather jacket. "Oh, Spike." She pulled it out, it was longer than Faith's waist length one and shorter than Spike's duster. She tried it on, it came to just below her hips. Without thought, she threw herself into Spike's arms. "Thank you!" He hugged her back, eager to feel the warm weight of her body against his. He smiled triumphantly at Angel.

She pulled back, embarrassed by her display. Angel walked up behind her and placed his hands on her shoulders. "My present is the hotel tonight. So, why don't you get packed up, princess? Then we can be on our way."

Faith walked to the staircase and retrieved her battered black bag. "I'm all ready."

Angel's brow furrowed. "I thought you were supposed to guard the Hellmouth."

"She's coming with us. I haven't seen her in so long and nothing's really going right now anyway. Can she go? Please, Angel?" Dawn tugged at his coat, doing her best little-girl expression. Angel never could resist that.

Faith held up her hands. "It's alright, D. I never go where I'm not invited."

"No, Dawn wants you to go. . .and I think it would be nice to." At this news, Dawn pulled the vampire down and kissed him on his closed mouth quickly. The older vampire chuckled, pleased that he had made her happy. Spike growled menacingly and Faith stifled a grin. This would be too funny to miss.

She had to admit that part of her wanted to punch him in the mouth. He made it sound like he could barely tolerate her. The other part of her wanted to be with Dawn, two whole weeks with her without Buffy. As usual, Dawn won out. "Great. Come on, D. Let's go get you packed." She pulled her up the stairs behind her.

Spike started to ascend the stairs behind them. "What do you think you're doing?" Angel asked.

"Packing, peaches."

"You weren't invited."

"Since when has that ever stopped me? Nothing better than a bleedin' family road trip, eh Sire?" With an evil smile, Spike continued up the stairs, singing "L.A. Woman" in low voice.

If you liked this fanfic why not tell the author your thoughts and comments, cyndyr298@yahoo.com

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