See Part 1 for Ratings and Disclaimers
Chapter 6
Kennedy walks around the streets of the small town her anger still evident on her face. Tears fall as she struggles for some kind of control. Her thoughts race, too much time with the redhead-Willowbabble is contagious. Her mind rants-anger, fear, hurt-all transverse through it. Why had the witch tricked her? She couldn't have a baby-if they knew they'd understand-but they didn't, so the blame would be all hers. Maybe Amy had been right-Willow could do nothing they would not forgive. The young Slayer however, knew the brunt of their anger would be focused on her. How was that fair? How was any of this fair? She stops as she hears traffic through her muddled thoughts. Across from her she sees a clinic. She sits on a bench and stares at it-time seems to stop-finally she stands, wiping away the wetness from her face and walks to the door and inside. At the desk, an older woman looks up at her, "May I help you dear?"
"I ah-I need to make an appointment." She fights away tears.
"What type?" She asks, Kennedy takes a deep breath and the tears slip out-falling like leaves on an autumn day. The woman waits for her to compose herself though she is sure now that she knows the answer.
Through her thoughts she can hear a knock on the door but she ignores it. She hopes beyond hope that Buffy or Xander will just go away but whoever it is doesn't. She hears the door open and then a soft voice. "Willow-" says Buffy. "Are you okay-where's Kennedy? Did you tell her?" She gets close enough and sees the tears. "Didn't take it so well?"
"She left," the waterfall of tears begins.
Buffy pulls her into her arms and tries to reassure her, "She'll be back-she's just a little shocked." The Slayer pauses not sure of what to do. Again she chooses assurance, "She'll calm down and she'll beg you to forgive her."
Willow shakes her head, "She doesn't want-" she stops not able to say the words. "I think she's gonna get-" she sobs, her head buried against the blonde's shoulder. Buffy is surprised by the words and holds her, unable to respond.
"I will be-just gonna find the Brat and bring her home."
"You don't think she hurt-" she stops.
"She's just blowing off steam where ever she is D-" she presses a kiss to her girl's lips. "Won't be long."
"I'll be here-" she forces a smile.
"Maybe you should check in on Red-"
"Xander's with her-that's probably better. I'm not sure how I'd handle-it's all-" she shakes her head and rolls her eyes. "It doesn't make sense."
"Yeah-with you there," she kisses her again and goes toward the door.
"Maybe we missed her-she's smart. She might have figured we'd be looking for her ass-" says Faith.
"She could have doubled back-gone to the hotel. Let's call it quits and check with Willow."
"She's not with Red."
"Why not?"
"She's pissed-she's eighteen years old and just found out her girlfriend got her pregnant-that's a lot of shit to deal with."
"So where is she?"
"Don't know about her-but I know where I'd be."
"Curled up with a bottle of Jack D?" Asks the blonde Slayer with a smile.
The brunette nods. "At eighteen-you bet your ass-"
"Do you kiss my sister with that mouth?" After the words leave her mouth and Faith smirks, she pales. "Don't answer that."
"About D-we're still 5x5 right?"
"Never knew what that meant-"
"Good-even; not a hard thing to figure out-thought you were the smart one?" She smiles.
"The two of you aren't-" she stops again not sure she wants to know.
"No-but you know it's gonna happen right-sooner or later?"
"I pick later-" says Buffy.
"You don't get to pick."
"Didn't think so-" she pauses, "Faith-do you love her?"
"Love-" she hesitates, "Never loved anyone-or been loved by anyone, till now-" her eyes meet Buffy's, "I'm not gonna hurt her B.-I promise you that."
Buffy nods too and a slow smile covers her face, "5x5-"
Faith smiles, "Check on Red-I'll drag Junior's ass back to the hotel."
"Don't think you'll need help?"
"P-l-ease whatever," she shakes her head and walks away.
"Still got a half a bottle-" says Kennedy reaching for the Jack but Faith moves it as well. "Give it back."
"Sorry Junior-now let's go. Don't make me drag you out of here."
"Not leaving-" she states.
"Look-" Faith stands and her patience is about gone. "Stand and walk out or not-but you're leaving."
She stands, she faces the once dark Slayer and takes a fighting stance. A man walks to them, "Ladies-a problem?"
"Other than you serving minors-" asks Faith.
"She had an I.D." He says and Kennedy smirks.
"Right-we're just gonna go-so back off." The man moves back to the bar. "Let's go home."
"Don't have a home."
"Not at this rate-Red's worried all day."
"It's her fault-damn witch had to know."
"Watch your mouth Brat-that's Red you're talking about."
"I fixed her," she takes out an appointment card. "After tomorrow it'll be over."
"Better take some time and think about this. You can't go back once you-" her tone changes, becomes softer- "It's just gone-"
Kennedy stares at Faith, though drunk she can sense a change in the mood of the other Slayer. "That's the idea."
"Thanks-" she says softly. She starts to reach out to touch her girl but pulls her hand back. "I don't know what I would have done if-"
"You don't have to worry about what ifs." She pauses before deciding to tell the woman what she knows. "You should worry about the fact that she made an appointment for tomorrow at the clinic-maybe you can talk to her."
"I tried-she wouldn't listen."
"Try again Red-something's not right. I don't know her that good but-my spidery senses are all Grrrrrrrr-find out what's going on." Willow nods.
"Can we talk?" Asks the witch as she stands and walks toward her.
"Nothing to say-" she pauses and anger suddenly creeps into her words as she turns to face the redhead, "Unless you want to explain why you did it."
"I don't-the baby? I didn't know-" Willow says softly.
"You had to know. A witch as powerful as you-you had to know what the necklace would do."
"You think I planned this?" She struggles to keep tears away.
"Didn't you?"
"No-I would never use magic to-" she stops.
"You have-a memory spell here, a take me from heaven spell there. So save the innocent me act."
Willow's tears fall, "I didn't know." She pauses and composes herself, "And admittedly it's a big shock for you-a baby, but she's ours. Is that so bad?" Kennedy turns away. "We could do this-" she whispers as she touches the young Slayer's shoulder with her hand.
Kennedy pulls away and starts to the door with her clothes. "No we can't," she says simply. She closes the door behind her leaning against it as her tears finally fall too. "I wish-but I can't."
Later in Faith's room the Slayer and Dawn are talking as they sit together on the bed. Faith's arms are wrapped around the teenager who has been crying. She looks at the clock-3:30 and then her eyes meet her Slayer's. "You think she'll do it?"
"I tried to get her to think about it for a few days, but she wouldn't."
"Willow will be devastated." Her tears start to fall again, "They'll never be able to fix it."
"Hey, come here-" she kisses Dawn chastely and pulls her onto her lap.
Holding tightly to her Slayer she speaks, her voice a whisper, "I want it to be okay."
"So do I, but it might not happen." She turns Dawn so that the younger girl straddles her.
Dawn looks into her eyes again and sees the concern there, "I love you-you know?"
"I know," she forces a smile. Thinking but then deciding to stop, she speaks, "I love you too D-." She leans in and sees a smile start to cross the younger woman's face just before their lips meet.
A little dark haired girl of about five sits at a table with a man dressed in a suit. The girl looks at the man who is reading a paper, "Father-" the man continues to read. "Why don't I have a mama like the other kids at school?"
He speaks still not looking from his paper, "She died."
"Was she sick like Mrs. Lorenzen?"
"No-" is his only response.
The little girl continues to question, "Then how?"
He lowers the paper and what she sees in his eyes confuses her. Was he mad at her? "When you were born, she died." She looks at him still uncertain-there are many more things she wants to ask but she knows he won't answer them. That look always means to stop.
Kennedy shakes the thoughts from her mind as tears stream down her cheeks.
Tears pour from the young Slayer's eyes, "I can't be your mama," she whispers. "I'm sorry." She forces the image away and stands. She crosses to the clinic. Opening the door she steps inside.
Chapter 7
Willow runs into the clinic-she goes to the desk stopping momentarily to catch her breath. "Kennedy-" she starts. "I need to see Kennedy Sandez."
"I'm sorry-she's with the doctor."
Willow's tears fall, "You don't understand-I have to stop her-" she starts toward a door marked No Admittance. A security guard stops her. "I have to get in-"
"Sorry ma'am." He continues to hold her. "I can't let you interfere."
"I have to see her-" she begins to sob. "Please-please let me in."
Later that evening Kennedy knocks on the door to Faith's room. The Slayer opens it and her eyes fall on the younger Slayer. She has been crying-her eyes swollen. Faith steps aside, "Come on in-"
"Can I stay here tonight?" She asks before moving.
"As long as you need," Faith says as she touches her arm. Kennedy pulls away.
The young Slayer walks in and sees Dawn, she stops. "Maybe I should just get a room."
"No-it's cool-right D?" Faith looks at her girl and the girl nods, though she's not sure why.
Kennedy moves to the bed and crawls in. She curls up with her back to them. Faith moves toward her and sits next to her on the bed. "Hey-Brat you okay?" Kennedy doesn't respond. "I'll be in D's room if you need anything-talk-food-just call." She lays the phone next to the young Slayer. "Rest." She sees Kennedy's body begin to shake as she cries. She puts a hand on her back, this time Kennedy allows it to stay. Dawn slips quietly out the door.
Later in Dawn's room Faith is listening to a mini Summers tirade. the Slayer stands by the window, facing the teenager. "How can you just-after what she did to Willow?" Dawn asks as she looks into the eyes of the woman she loves.
"Sometimes things aren't right or wrong D-they just are what they are."
"But she-" she fights tears, "A baby, Faith."
"Yeah-" nods the once dark Slayer, "And it was the hardest thing she'll ever have to do."
"You know this how?" Dawn moves closer to her. Faith turns to look out the window. "Faith?" Worry steals into her heart.
"Not doing this right now-can't."
"Okay-" she says softly as she puts her arms around her Slayer from behind and pulls her into a tight embrace. Tears slip from the Faith's eyes though she fights to stop them and to keep the memories away.
Late that night Faith sits in the chair across the room and watches Kennedy as she sleeps fitfully. She mumbles but usually her words can't be understood. "Willow-I'm-sor-sorry-" Faith hears and she stands, her pacing begins.
A few minutes later Dawn walks into the room and walks over to her Slayer. "You promised you'd sleep," she whispers.
"Tried."
Dawn takes her hand and leads her back to the chair. "Maybe if I hold you?" She forces a smile as she kisses Faith gently. Faith forces a smile as well. They curl up together, the teenager wrapping her Slayer in her arms. They sit that way for what seems like hours. Kennedy still cries out and mumbles.
Just as Dawn begins to nod off she hears Faith, "Dawnie-you awake?" she whispers.
"Yeah-"
"Before-when I was saying-" she stops and Dawn hears an intake of breath. "I know because I did-" She stops and tears fall. Faith feels lips on her cheek and she tries again to explain. "In prison-there was this guard-he-I could have stopped him but it would have taken me being a Slayer and I had this deal with Angel-"
"It's okay-you don't have to explain," assures Dawn. "What he did was wrong."
"Yeah-but I-wasn't I too?" She turns and her eyes meet Dawn's in the darkness. Dawn presses a kiss to her lips and holds her without words.
"What happen to no rights or wrongs?" Asks Dawn and Faith kisses her again as she cries.
The next day they are loading the bus getting ready to move again. Faith looks at Buffy, as Kennedy walks past them to board the bus. "She shouldn't be traveling," says the once rogue Slayer.
"She said she was good to go-" Buffy shrugs as she puts the last suitcase in the storage compartment. "We'll just keep an eye on her."
Dawn walks up to them and smiles as she puts her arm around her Slayer. "Hey-" she says as she kisses her chastely.
"Hey-to you," smiles the once dark Slayer. She pulls her into a tight hug and kisses her again.
Buffy clears her throat and smiles, "Don't I get a hey?" She looks to her sister who rolls her eyes.
"Hey-" she takes Faith's hand. "How's Will?"
Buffy shakes her head, "Not good-but not evil so that's a plus right?"
"Right," agrees Dawn.
She watches Willow and Xander walk onto the bus from the other direction. She can see she is still crying. Faith's hand tightens around hers. "Let's go D-maybe we can snag the back seat," she says with a smile and a wink trying to cheer up her girl. Dawn smiles a little and looks into her Slayer's eyes.
Buffy watches them walk to the bus as well. She takes a deep breath and lets it out slowly. Giles walks up to her, "Are we ready?"
"I some how doubt it-can't wait to see what's next. It's almost turned into a soap opera."
He says, "I miss Passions-and strangely enough-Spike."
Buffy says, "I miss Spike too." They get on the bus as she looks around she sees Willow and Kennedy in separate seats, on opposite sides of the bus a few seats from the back. Worry fills her but it is momentarily pushed away as she sees Faith and Dawn have indeed taken the backseat for themselves. She can't help but smile, but then it too turns to worry. "You so wouldn't be making out in the back if Spike was here," she mumbles.
She hears Faith's soft laugh, then her whispered words. "Yo-Slayer hearing-and you're wrong." Buffy smiles.
At the first stop Kennedy disappears into the bathroom. Willow looks her direction and worry covers her face but she doesn't move. After a few tense minutes when she hasn't returned, it is Dawn who gets up and goes that direction. She walks in in time to hear the heaving. "Kennedy-you okay?"
"Great," she says sarcastically.
"Want me to get Faith?"
"No-I'll be out in a minute."
"Sure you're okay?" The only answer is the sound of her throwing up again.
Back on the bus, night is starting to fall. Kennedy stares out her window and Willow does the same. From their seat in the back Faith can see both of them. "They need to talk," says Dawn.
"They will-it might take a while but they will."
"I hope you're right," she says as she leans in to kiss her girlfriend.
The next night Faith and Dawn are still occupying the backseat. They kiss and it intensifies as mouths open and close together and Dawn's hand begins to tease at the bottom of Faith's tank- "D-?"
"Un-huh?"
"You know your hand's under my shirt?"
"Really, where?" She asks as she slides it higher and teases bare skin.
Faith's breath hitches and she smiles, "You're gonna pay for that," she says as she feels Dawn's hand massage her breast.
"Can't wait," she says with a smile as she leans in for another more passionate kiss. Lips open and close together as the teenager's hand matches the rhythm and Faith moans.
A little later hands continue to explore bodies as Faith now sits on her girlfriend's lap, her legs locked around Dawn's waist. Both moan as they kiss again. When they break apart Faith lays her head on Dawn's shoulder-the teenager's lips begin to tease smooth flesh at the Slayer's neck. "D-we gotta take a break," says Faith.
"Not this time-" she says and Faith looks up. Their eyes meet and Dawn's are determined. "Make love to me," challenges the younger Summers.
"No way your first time is gonna be in the backseat of a bus," Faith says as she tries to move but Dawn holds her with arms around her waist.
"That doesn't matter-"
"It does to me," she says as she kisses her. "Soon-I promise."
Dawn presses her to the seat and rests between her legs, their centers touching as she allows more of her weight to land on the Slayer. She hears a moan, "You know you want to-" she says as she rocks slightly. They both gasp. "Please." Faith reaches up and cups the younger woman's beasts in her hands. "Gods-" she groans.
"Shit-" mumbles Faith as Dawn rocks again. Their lips meet as they move together. "Fuck-" says Faith as she feels her body start to hum. "Stop," she says as she drops her hands to her sides.
Dawn, shocked does, "What's wrong?" She struggles to slow her breathing.
She sits up and pulls away from the teenager, "We're not doing this."
Angry she stands, "Fine." She moves toward the middle of the bus and sits down. Faith runs her fingers through her hair and looks at the teenager.
As the sunrises Dawn opens her eyes surprised she is wrapped in her Slayer's arms. Faith opens her eyes too as she feels the teenager stir. "Morning," she says softly. Dawn just looks at her unsure. "I missed holding you-okay?"
"Okay-" she says as she kisses Faith softly. "And I'm sorry I was such a baby-forgive me?"
"Always," assures the Slayer. She stretches, "Let's go back to the big seat."
"I'm for that-" they stand together and walk to the back only to find Willow curled up at one end and Kennedy at the other. "Old habits." She smiles.
A little later Willow wakes to see Kennedy across from her, tears fall as she watches her Slayer sleep-her legs to her chest and her arms surrounding them. "Awe sweetie-" she moves toward the brunette but stops as Kennedy's eyes open. "Hey-" she says softly.
"Sorry," she starts to stand- "Didn't know you were here."
"It's okay-lots of room," concedes the redhead. Kennedy sits back down. She turns pale. "Kennedy?"
"Dizzy-" she says, "Gonna be-" and before she can get the words out she throws up. Willow makes a face as it barely misses her.
The bus is parked in a lot at a gas station. The young Slayer's are standing outside it complaining, "It smells-I'm so not getting back on," one says.
Buffy rolls her eyes but it is Xander who speaks, "You could walk from here. Way I got it figured it's about 300 miles."
Their grumbling stops. Buffy looks toward the building-Faith, Dawn, Willow and Kennedy have been inside for about ten minutes now.
Dawn and Faith stand outside the bathroom door while Kennedy and Willow are inside. They can still hear the young Slayer retching. "Faith-you think she changed her mind? I mean would she still be throwing up if she'd had the-" she stops. She pauses and starts again. "She's been sick at least twice since we left, so maybe?"
"Don't know D-" she too pauses. "Guess we'll find out when she's ready."
"Yeah-you think they need us in there?"
"What have you got in mind?" Smiles Faith.
"Kind of hungry" she smiles.
"You can eat after all the cookie tossing?"
"You can't?"
"I can-just surprised I'm not the only one." Hand-in-hand they start to scope out the shelves.
In the bathroom Willow holds Kennedy's hair back as she fights to catch her breath. She wipes her face with a wet handkerchief. "Any better?"
"Little-" she says. "You don't have to do this-after the things I said." She looks in the redhead's sad eyes.
"You don't want me here? I can get Faith or Dawnie."
"Not what I said-" says Kennedy as she takes her hand as she tries to leave. "I'm trying to make this right."
"Yeah-when you're feeling better we'll talk."
"Promise?" Asks the young Slayer.
"There's a lot to talk about-" says the redhead.
"Willow-I need you to know I didn't-" she stops as her stomach rumbles and she starts to throw up again. Willow wets the cloth in a small bowl and wipes her face. She wishes the young Slayer was able to finish her words-didn't what? Didn't mean the words, didn't get the abortion-could it be possible. Did she dare hope that it was. Kennedy's hand on her arm pulls her out of her wonderings. "Need some air-" she says.
Willow helps her to her feet and she leans on the redhead as they leave the bathroom. Willow sees Faith- "Ah-we're gonna get some air-maybe you can get her a clean shirt and her toothbrush."
"Got it Red." Faith nods as she watches them go out the door. She pays for their snacks and she and Dawn go toward the bus.
Dawn pulls a suitcase out as Faith hold up about five, "You can put them down." She lays Kennedy's on the ground and looks through it. She finds a tank top and her bathroom kit. She zips the bag up and as she does a packet falls out along with some pills. She looks sad. Faith walks to her. She sees the words on the brochure. "Guess now we know." She puts it back in the suitcase.
"They give those to you when you make the appointment. Doesn't mean she did it."
"And the pills?"
"I don't know D-" she puts an arm around her. "Let's just get this stuff to them." The teenager nods and they start to the side of the building where Willow and Kennedy are sitting. When they round the corner they see the young Slayer asleep with her head on Willow's shoulder. The redhead has her arms around her. "Here you go Red," she says softly.
"Thanks-" she answers back.
Dawn looks at the redhead, "Are the two of you-" she stops unsure or what to ask.
"Still a lot to work through-" she answers.
"We'll let you know when the bus is ready."
"Thanks," she says again as she watches them leave hand-in-hand.
Kennedy begins to mumble, "Why don't I have a Mama?" Willow looks unsure. Kennedy's eyes open and meet worried green.
"Just a bad dream Kennedy," she says.
"No-and guess that's where I should start."
"With your mom?" Kennedy nods. "Sure you're up to it?"
"Still a little spinny but you got me right?"
"I got you-but ah-let's get you cleaned up and then we can talk all night if you want."
"Okay-" she agrees. They stand slowly.
Chapter 8
The bus is on the road again. Willow sits in the back with Kennedy curled up against her. The redhead's arms encircle her young Slayer as she sleeps. Kennedy's sleep is restless-fitful, she mumbles and whines. Willow pulls her closer trying to comfort her. Finally, the young Slayer's eyes open, "Fell asleep-sorry."
"You needed to rest."
"I guess," the young Slayer moves out of the witch's arms and sits with her legs crossed facing her. "We need to talk now."
"Okay," says the redhead as she sits cross-legged as well looking at her lover.
Kennedy worries her bottom lip with her teeth and then starts, "First, I'm sorry for the things I said." She stops and takes a deep breath letting it out slowly. "I didn't mean-I was-I know you didn't do it on purpose."
"You were shocked-scared, it's not everyday you find out you're pregnant."
"Especially when you're not sleeping with a man." They sort of smile. "That's not why I was freaked."
"No?" Willow is unsure.
"No," tears form in the young Slayer's eyes but do not fall.
"We can do this later," tries the redhead concerned for her Slayer.
"No-now, I need you to know now." Willow nods and the girl continues. "My mom, I didn't know her. She-she died when I was born." Willow's eyes tear as the young Slayer finally loses her battle and they stream down her face.
"What happened?"
"Complications, they ah-she was bleeding and they couldn't get it to stop." Kennedy wipes her eyes and looks directly into the sad green of her redhead, "I'm scared-afraid that it'll happen to me." Willow presses a kiss to the young Slayer's lips. "That's why I did-" she stops.
"At least now I understand why the abor-" she stops still unable to say the word. "But I-" she stops again and her tears fall harder.
"I didn't," she shakes her head. "I couldn't-she's ours."
"You didn't," says Willow. Kennedy shakes her head. "So you're still-" she pulls her lover into her lap and presses a chaste kiss to her lips as both cry harder than before. Willow holds Kennedy tightly and Kennedy does the same. The redhead tries to speak, "We're still-" she can't finish as her emotions overtake her completely and the words won't come.
"Still," says Kennedy. They hold each other tight.
A few minutes later, a little more composed the young mother-to-be speaks, "But I'm scared Will-I don't want to die."
"Shhhh-" Willow kisses her lips. "No, it won't happen. We'll find a doctor, do everything right, tell him about the history."
"Okay-" says Kennedy as their lips meet again.
"We're gonna have a baby," she kisses her again.
The young Slayer actually smiles, "How about you have it?" Kennedy suggests.
The redhead smiles, "Brat-" she rolls her eyes. "A baby-" she says once more.
"A baby," confirms the young Slayer.
Those on the bus cheer. Willow and Kennedy blush. "Damn Slayer hearing," mumbles the witch.
A few seats forward, Dawn cries happy tears and Faith kisses her chastely. "A baby-" smiles the teenager, "That's so cool-ohh-maybe they'll let us watch her."
"Yeah," nods the once rogue Slayer. Her mood saddens.
"You okay?" Asks Dawn as she realizes where her girl has gone.
"Will be," says Faith and the former Key kisses her hoping it will help drive the memories away for a little while.
"We could borrow the necklace," she suggests.
"Don't say shit like that-" Faith looks ill at ease.
"Why?"
"Could happen."
Dawn takes her hand, "Be too scary?" Faith mock glares at her. "Big bad Slayer scared?" She teases with a smile.
"Me-not scared of anything-" she begins to tickle the teenager. After a few seconds of laughter and wrestling Dawn ends up wrapped in her Slayer's arms. "You'd be okay with that?" She pauses and their eyes meet. "Having my kid?"
"Yeah-not like right now but later after-" she stops and bites her bottom lip.
"After?" Asks Faith.
"After we spend a year traveling and having wild sex on at least three continents."
Faith laughs, "You're impossible." She kisses her softly. "Have I told you how much I love you?"
"Seem to remember it, but repeating it isn't a bad thing."
"I love you," she kisses her then glances to the back when she hears hushed voices. "You know what them making up means don't you?"
"Besides the moaning?" Faith rolls her eyes. "Yeah, I know-we lost the backseat," the teenager pouts but a smiles forms slowly. "But it's worth it."
Faith smiles and holds her tight, "Plus we'll be in Cleveland in like two days."
"Then can we-" her words stop as she sees Faith's raised eyebrow.
"Damn D-do you think about anything else?" Dawn rolls her eyes and pretends to pout. "You're hornier than I me-glad you aren't a Slayer."
Dawn slaps at her playfully and Faith grabs her hand. She pulls her in for a kiss. "Mmmm-that's nice," says the teen. She moans as Faith's lips move to her neck. The Slayer smiles.
In the front of the bus Buffy and Xander smiles as they hold hands. "So," says the blonde Slayer, "is there room in the new place for a nursery?" She eyes the carpenter.
"We'll make room," he smiles broadly. "I'm gonna be an uncle." Buffy kisses his cheek. "And you're gonna be Aunt Buffy."
"I could get use to that-well unless it was Dawn and maybe then-well-not so use to it." They are quiet. "Think you could make them their own little place?"
"Faith and Dawnie?"
"No-" she slaps him for teasing when she sees his smile. "Will, Kennedy and the baby-babies cry."
"I'll see what I can do-" he reaches under his seat and gets his briefcase. He opens it and takes out floor plans for the house. Buff leans against him and watches over his shoulder as he reads. He touches her cheek and kisses the blonde softly. "Are you trying to distract me?"
"Is it working?" She smiles and kisses him, she runs her tongue along his bottom lip and he nips at it playfully.
"Yes-but I thought you wanted the baby to have a room?"
"I do-far enough away that crying won't interrupt-" she raises an eyebrow. "But she won't be here for nine months."
"But we have to start the renovations as soon as we get there."
"You're no fun," she pouts.
"Baby-" he teases, "Look at the pouty lip." He leans in and pulls the lip between his and sucks gently. She moans and he smiles.
The next afternoon the gang is at a restaurant. As they scarf down food and order more they talk about the new place in Cleveland. "Will we each have our own room?" Asks Rona.
"New Slayers will be two or three to a room," says Giles, "Much like a college dormitory."
They groan and the eyes of the older people stare at them. "We could leave it one big room, like summer camp," offers Xander.
"A roommate or two, that's fine," assures Vi.
"Thought so," smirks Xander.
"What about me?" Asks Dawn.
"Pick a roommate little sister," says Buffy. The teenager looks to Faith and smiles. "Don't think so," says the blonde and Dawn's smile fades into a pout.
"Don't sweat it D," says Faith with a smirk. Buffy and Dawn look at the Slayer unsure. "Tell you later." Dawn smiles.
Willow speaks next, "What about the scoobies?"
"We each get our own room," Xander answers.
"That's so not fair," whines another young Slayer.
"No, it's not-it's just the way it is," says the oldest Slayer.
Giles looks around the table at the ragtag group, "We should be going if we want to get to Cleveland by midday tomorrow."
They stand, picking up food as they do and start for the bus. Kennedy turns pale as she stands. "Sweetie?"
"Just a little queasy," says Kennedy fighting to keep her food down.
"Lets get some fresh air," Willow puts her arm around her young Slayer and they walk out together.
Faith and Dawn are behind them, "Anything we can do?" Asks the dark Slayer.
"Nah-just gonna hang out here a second," says Willow. She and Kennedy lean against the building.
"I'll be fine," adds Kennedy.
"That's cool," she smiles at Dawn. They start to walk away, "Backseat!" Smiles the Slayer and they start to run for the bus giggling.
A few minutes later the redhead and the young Slayer board. They look toward the back and see Dawn and Faith in their seat. The two are smiling and waving at them. "This could get ugly," smiles Rona to Vi and the other young Slayers. However, their potential fun ends when Willow and Kennedy sit in the front seat without a word. They decide that the closer to the door the better. Giles acknowledges it as well, "It's most certainly for the best."
Night has fallen and Giles continues to drive while the others on the bus sleep. Kennedy has her head in Willow's lap; her feet hang over to the seat across the aisle as she has stretch to get comfortable. The redhead has her arms wrapped around her and they both sleep.
As we go back a few seats young Slayers lie stretched across seats and even in the aisles. Most sleep but a couple talk quietly, anxious about Cleveland.
Farther back Buffy sleeps with her head resting on Xander's chest, he holds her close to him. He sleeps as well.
In the back of the bus in the comfy seat Faith lies spooned around her girlfriend. Dawn is sleeping but the once rogue Slayer can't. She presses a kiss to the side of the teenager's head and whispers, "D-you asleep?"
"A little," says the teenager her words tired. She turns to face her Slayer. She presses a kiss to her lips, "Why aren't you?"
"Excited," she says honestly. "Cleveland-the slaying, protecting the people yo-"
"Oh," says Dawn disappointed. "That kind of excited," she pouts. "I thought maybe-" she blushes a little.
"That too-getting use to it," she smirks. "Always happens when I'm this close to you."
"Want me to help with that?" Asks Dawn raising an eyebrow.
"Think you can?" Challenges Faith with a smirk.
"Pretty sure, did some research on Will's computer." She smiles at Faith's surprised look. She touches her Slayer's cheek with her hand and then moves it slowly down her body. She stops at Faith's stomach and works her hand under the material there. Dawn leans in and presses a chaste kiss to Faith's lips, but in seconds they open and close together. Dawn pulls back, her hand still teasing. "Better?"
"Mmmm- nice," says Faith, her eyes closing as the teenager's fingers keep playing.
"But not-you're still-"
She opens her eyes and smiles at her girl, "Sounding like Red, you want to finish one of those sentences?"
"No-just want to give you what you need," says Dawn, worry in her voice.
"I can handle it," she says as her body screams with need and desire.
"Let me," she moves her hand to Faith's belt and begins to unfasten it. Faith takes a sharp intake of breath as the teenager's fingers brush against her.
"Shit," she stares at the girl. "We shouldn't do this," she tries to calm herself. Her hand stops Dawn and their eyes meet. "Dawnie-"
"I love you-you love me," her words stop and she looks away.
Faith moves her hand as she shakes her head, "We shouldn't-but if-" Dawn tries to unzip her jeans. "No-your hands, keep them above the waist."
"Then how?" Dawn looks at her confused.
"Won't be a problem, just-" she stops as she turns Dawn to her back and moves over her. Faith carefully straddles her leg. Dawn looks unsure, suddenly nervous. "We don't have to do this."
"No-but I want," says the teenager, "Just a little nervous," she states.
Faith kisses her lips and puts her hands on Dawn's face before deepening the kiss. As she pulls away she says softly, "Relax, I'll do all the work, just don't stop touching me."
Dawn, "Don't stop touching," she repeats as Faith begins to gently rock on Dawn's leg as the teenager's hands roam the Slayer's body.
In the front of the bus Kennedy and Willow still sleep but the young Slayer is starting to toss and turn. She cries and then mumbles something, "Please-" is the only discernable word.
The redhead opens her eyes and she begins to stroke her Slayer's back, trying to sooth her. "It's okay Kennedy I got you," she says softly. "I won't let anything happen." She carefully stretches out beside her and pulls her into her body spooning her protectively. She presses a kiss to the back of her head as a hand touches her Slayer's stomach. She smiles as she thinks about the baby growing there.
Kennedy snuggles into her redhead, her sleeping body still aware somehow. She smiles and a different dream starts. She is in the hospital in labor, the doctor instructs her to push and as she does she sees her daughter. Tears fill her eyes as she is overjoyed. "Hi baby-it's Mama." She kisses her forehead.
In the back lips connect to stifle moans that grow increasingly louder as the rocking rhythm speeds slightly. Dawn's hands continue to tease. As Dawn's hand finds her smooth stomach and the teenager's lips move to the flesh of her neck the once dark Slayer gets lost. Her body drives her faster and she pants for air, her lungs burning. "Damn-" she starts as her body begins to tremble, "Fuck-" she holds tighter to her girl. "Shit-" she mumbles and then screams as her orgasm rips through her.
However, it's not the only scream.
Buffy sits up looking around, Willow is trying to calm her Slayer, "Just a bad dream," she tries.
"I died Will-" she cries, "I died."
"No-see-you're here with me." She kisses her.
Buffy holds Xander's hand as she tries to look in the back of the bus but can't. A part of her knows that Kennedy's wasn't the only scream she heard.
"Love you," pants Faith as she tries to catch her breath, unaware of what happened at the front of the bus. Dawn kisses her lips and sparks still race through her. "Shit-" she says in a whisper. She drops her head to Dawn's chest too tired to hold it up. Dawn's hands still caress her.
"Sleep now," says Dawn with a smile. Faith's eyes close though she doesn't want them to. "Sleep," repeats the teenager.
Willow holds Kennedy as she cries, the young Slayer is wrapped around her like a small child with her head resting on the redhead's shoulder. "I promise I won't let anything happen." She kisses Kennedy's temple. "Sleep," she says, "I'll be right here, holding you-watching you. Just sleep." Kennedy's eyes slowly close.
During the night Faith sits up carefully and looks down at her girlfriend. "Fuck," she mumbles. "Shouldn't have let it happen." She runs her fingers through her hair and stands. She presses a kiss to Dawn's forehead and walks toward the front.
She is surprised to see Buffy walking her way. They stand face to face in the aisle. "Everything okay?" Asks the blonde.
"Why wouldn't it be?" Faith responds.
"You're here, she's there," Buffy looks toward Dawn and then back at the Slayer.
"Just-" she stops.
"Want to talk about it?"
"No-" she pauses. "Yeah-what the hell. What's the worst that could happen?"
"I could stake your ass-"
"Might let you-sometimes I wonder-" she stops and starts again. "We shouldn't have-"
"You had sex with my sister?"
"Not technically-no-but I let her," she stops again apparently Willow's enability to finish thoughts is contagious.
"I thought a heard another scream," Buffy glares at the Slayer.
"Another?"
"Don't try to change the subject." Buffy stands and Faith does too.
"Take your best shot, it's free." She drops her hands and stands waiting for the Slayer to hit her.
"Faith-you're beating yourself up enough. I don't need to." She pauses then speaks again. "I know Dawn-she didn't do anything she didn't want to."
"I guess but-" she shakes her head. "What did you mean by another scream?"
"Kennedy had a nightmare."
"She okay?"
"Will's taking care of her. Get some sleep."
"Doubt it," she turns and goes back to her seat. She sits next to Dawn, the teenager starts to wake. As her girlfriend's eyes open the Slayer smiles. "Hey," Dawn snuggles against her.
"Where'd you go-missed you."
Faith smiles, "Stretching my legs."
Dawn pulls the Slayer into her arms and they lie together in the backseat. "I love you," she says as she kisses her chastely.
"Back at you kid, but we need to talk."
"About what we did?" She smiles and touches Faith's cheek. "Still with the wow."
"Yeah-it was." She stops and touches Dawn's cheek moving her hair behind her ear. "Are you okay?"
"Yes-" she smiles sensing Faith's uncertainty. "Are you sorry-?"
"Sorry-no," she says honestly. "But it was a little soon-I knew that and I didn't stop it."
"I didn't want you too." She gets a resolve face that would make even the redhead herself shake. "I'm not a little girl that you have to protect all the time."
"I know that-"
"Do you-?" She starts again as their conversation continues into the night.
Up front later Kennedy has calmed, Willow still holds her. "Better?" Asks the redhead.
"Better-" confirms the young Slayer. She kisses her witch and they snuggle together in the seat.
"I want our seat back," pouts the young Slayer.
"We'll get it back when we stop for breakfast."
"Okay," she presses a kiss to Willow's lips.
"Sleep," smiles the redhead. Kennedy's eyes close.
When the bus stops later Kennedy bolts for the door and Willow follows. The others stand to go inside but stop in their tracks as they hear Kennedy retching from outside. The young Slayers make faces and sit back down, "I'm not so hungry now," says Rona. The others agree.
Buffy twists her face in disgust as well, "Maybe you could pull forward just a little bit?" Her eyes fall on Giles. He looks at her and she rolls her eyes. "Just kidding."
She starts off the bus, her hand in Xander's, "You so weren't," he smirks.
"Shut up," she pouts as they continue down the steps.
Chapter 9
Breakfast over, the gang has returned to the bus, and Willow and Kennedy have their seat back thanks to some trickery. They smile snuggled in each other's arms. "Pretty smart there Red."
"You think?"
"Definitely, a little underhanded-but smart."
"And I told an untruth and didn't giggle or look at the ground," she smiles victorious.
"So, now let's make use of the room," she says with a seductive glint in her eyes.
Willow bites her bottom lip and their eyes meet, "You think it's okay to-" she stops still not able to say the words. "You know-I mean, the baby."
Kennedy raises an eyebrow, "Will-pregnant people have sex," she stops and reconsiders, "I think-" she seems less sure. "I mean nine months without being with you-remember how hard it was when we were waiting for my birthday?"
"I remember," she leans in and kisses her softly. "But I don't want to take chances. We'll make an appointment tomorrow when we get settled."
"Don't want to wait Will-please?" She pouts and then plays dirty by leaning in and capturing the redhead's lips in a passionate kiss. She begins to open and close her lips and Willow soon follows suit. After a few minutes, lungs needing air they break apart.
"Kennedy-"her resolve face makes an appearance.
"Okay-" she agrees but isn't happy. "We'll wait."
"We can snuggle-" she says, "And touching is nice."
Kennedy smiles, "Touching leads to more touching-and bad touching, if sex is off the board."
"No touching?" The redhead pouts.
"Wasn't my idea," the young Slayer raises her eyebrows.
"We should just give Faith and Dawnie the seat back.
"No way-this seat is mine," says the young Slayer. "Ours," she amends.
"Yes it is, so let's snuggle." Without a word Kennedy moves from her redhead's arms and stretches out on the seat. She smiles as Willow does the same. They turn to their sides and soon they are spooned together, legs tangled. Willow's arms encircle her young Slayer and her hands rest on her stomach. "See this is nice."
"Mmmm," she says as she snuggles back against her witch. Willow presses a kiss to her girl's shoulder. "Nice," agrees the young Slayer.
They are quiet for a few minutes and then Kennedy speaks. "Will-?"
"What sweetie?" She questions.
"The baby-it's a girl right?"
"Pretty good chance-no guy so no Y-" smiles the redhead. "Why?"
"I was thinking-could we-" she hesitates. "Would it be okay if we named her after my mom?"
Willow fights the sudden arrival of tears that appear out of no where, "I think that would be-I like the idea."
"Yeah-" she laces her fingers with the redhead's on her stomach. "Thanks-" she says softly. "I love you."
"I love you," she replies. They are quiet again.
Towards the middle of the bus Faith and Dawn share a sit. Their fingers are interlocked on the leg of the Slayer, she however is staring out the window. She is still having trouble dealing with the night before. She blames herself fully and worries that she rushed the teenager. All of her old insecurities pour back and she berates herself. In her mind her words burn, 'Fucking bitch what where you thinking?-You haven't changed, still just take what you want. Want-Take-Have-that's all you're about. Leave her now before you hurt her and Buffy hurts you.'
Dawn watches her and the teenager is starting to get nervous. Her mind worries- "Faith?" She says softly.
The word filters through her mind and as it is repeated. The Slayer turns to look at her. "D-"
"What's wrong-you were quiet at breakfast too."
She shakes her head, "Don't sweat it D-it's nothing."
"Did I-last night-did I not do something-" tears start to form in her eyes.
"No-" Faith touches her cheek, "It's not you-okay?" Dawn's tears slip out though she tries to stop them. "Shit-" she states. "See-I-" she runs her fingers through her hair. "Don't cry-please." She watches Dawn try to calm the tears but the more she tries the more they fall and Faith kicks herself for each one. "I'm sorry-Dawnie-" she stands.
"Faith-" the teenager calls after her as she watches her walk toward the front of the bus.
Buffy looks unsure as she watches her walk past, the dark Slayer stops by Giles. "I need off-" he looks at her unsure. "I said stop the fuckin' bus." She is fighting to keep tears at bay as she refuses to let anyone see that side of her. He sees a rest stop ahead and pulls to a stop. She runs off the bus while the others look toward Dawn.
The teenager stands and starts off as well but Buffy stops her, "Buffy I need to talk to her-" she looks at her sister.
"I know, but give her a minute," Buffy looks into her younger sister's eyes for understanding and see it. "Sit with me." Xander stands and Dawn sits next to her. The man slips off the bus unnoticed. The teenager finally gets the tears to stop. "What happened?"
"I'm not sure-she was all quiet and I ask if I had done something-"
"You haven't-" assures Buffy.
"That's what she said but Buffy-I don't understand-if it's not something I did why won't she talk to me?" The tears start again.
Buffy hugs her sister, "She's-" unsure of how to explain, she stops. "She's not use to talking about how she feels and right now she's a little confused about last night."
"You know what we did?" Buffy nods. "So it's because I-we-she-" Dawn stops. "If I didn't do it wrong why is she-I thought she-" she gets frustrated because the words won't come. "Damn channeling Willow-" Buffy smiles.
"From what I heard-you did okay?" Buffy rolls her eyes in disbelief that the conversation was even taking place. The teenager blushes. It not because she didn't enjoy herself, it's because she let you."
"That doesn't make sense," says Dawn.
"Welcome to Faith's world-you do remember she was crazy once right?" She teases trying the ease the worry. "She doesn't want to hurt you."
"So not hurt-" assures Dawn.
"Tell her that-" she says.
Dawn stands and starts off the bus but stops as she sees Xander sitting on a picnic table with the Slayer. She can see they are talking. She stops and looks at her sister. "Xander's talking to her."
"Let him finish."
The others on the bus stand and start off, "Where do you think you're going?" She asks the young Slayers.
"Bathroom," supplies Rona.
"Stay away from Faith-or if you get your asses kicked don't come whining to me." They girls roll their eyes and leave. Giles, Buffy, and Dawn follow.
Willow and Kennedy stay on the bus wrapped in each other, in their own little world. "Need to stretch?" Asks Willow.
"No-but do you think I should talk to Faith?"
"Xander's talking to her, she'll be okay."
"So, what do you think they did last night?" Asks the young Slayer. "You think they had sex?"
Willow smiles, then it fades as she realizes where the activity would have taken place- "In our back seat? I hope not." Kennedy makes a face.
At the picnic table Faith stares at her feet. Xander speaks again, "Faith-"
"Go away-" her anger raging at the surface.
"Talk to me." He pauses, "When I get back on that bus Buffy's gonna want answers, but more importantly so will Dawnie."
"I fucked that up." She states but doesn't expound.
"How?"
"Like always-only thinking about myself." She still stares down as a tear falls unnoticed by the man. "I knew I shouldn't and I still let her get me off."
Xander smiles a knowing smile, "It happens."
"It shouldn't have-if was any different-it wouldn't have."
"Faith you're not perfect."
"That's for damn sure, won't argue that."
"But you are different-I see that-" he adds.
"See that-huh-with your one eye?" She looks up at him and another tear slips out.
"See more than anyone knows," he's more serious. "If I thought you didn't love Dawn-" he stops. "But you do-"
"But I used her-" she says and tears freely fall.
Taking a breath and jumping in the man pulls her into his arms, "Maybe-but she'll forgive you-forgive yourself." He pulls back and sees Dawn standing a few steps away. He stands and Faith looks at him unsure. She follows his eye and sees the teenager.
"Hey-" says Dawn as she sits down next to her. Xander walks away. "Listen to me-I love you and I want to be with you. Got that?" Faith nods. "Good so quit with the blaming and kiss me."
"You heard?"
"Enough-you didn't use me-well," she smiles, "guess you used a part of me," she smirks and blushes at the same time. Faith smiles. "Love that smile." Dawn leans in and kisses her. "I'm okay with what we did. In fact-kinda mad I didn't get a turn."
Faith glares at her, "And you're not-" she pauses, "Not yet anyway."
"Fine," she pouts playfully, "I can wait."
"Me too," she leans in and kisses her girlfriend.
"Ready to go?" Asks the teenager.
"Let's sit here awhile."
"Giles might leave us."
"He'd leave me-but not you, so we're safe." Faith smiles and puts her arm around Dawn.
"I am with you," she kisses her Slayer again chastely.
"I'm sorry-" she whispers after a few silent minutes.
"Nothing to be sorry for-thought we settled that?"
"We did-settled-forgiven right?"
"Nothing to forgive, but if it'll help-yes-forgiven." She kisses her Slayer again. This time after pressing her lips to Faith's she begins to move them against the Slayer's.
As they begin to open and close together they hear voices from the bus. "Let's go-" yells Buffy. "You know how Giles gets when he's off schedule."
The two roll their eyes as they pull apart. "Better go," says Faith.
"Guess so," she stands and holds her hand out to Faith, the Slayer takes it and they walk to the bus hand-in-hand.
The bus is back on the road and all seems right again. Willow and Kennedy cuddle in the back seat. The young Slayer again naps. A few seats forward Faith holds Dawn in her arms the teenager rests her head on the Slayer's shoulder. Their fingers are laced together on Faith's leg. They are talking quietly. The other Slayers are two to a seat chatting excitedly about Cleveland. They just past a road sign that said Cleveland 132 miles.
Near the front Xander and Buffy are talking. "So think they're okay?" Asks the blonde.
"Mostly-. It's gonna be bumpy-you know that right?"
"Don't want it to be-" pouts the oldest Slayer. "I want Dawnie happy."
"And she is-" he says.
"What did she say?"
"Faith?"
"Yes Faith-" she rolls her eyes.
"She still thinks of herself as bad-"
"She's not-" admits Buffy.
"I know that, you know that and sometimes even she knows that-but when she messes up she'll forget."
"When did you get so smart?" She kisses him softly.
""Just happened," he smiles. "Probably hanging with Willow all those years."
"What about me?" She whines.
"And you," he gives in. She kisses him again.
Later as they pass the sign that reads Cleveland 37 miles those on the bus are awake and getting excited. The young Slayers are talking nonstop. Xander is now driving as Giles looks through his briefcase at some papers.
Buffy watches her Watcher-the man has become so much more over the years. She can't help but smile at him, she moves to his side and asks, "Whatcha doing?"
"Making sure the paperwork is in order," he looks up at her.
"Need some help?"
"Certainly," he smiles and she slides into the seat next to him.
Faith again stares out the window but this time she smiles, Dawn touches her shoulder and the Slayer turns to her, "Excited?" Smiles the teenager.
"Yeah-can't wait."
"Think it'll be all crowded like the house?"
"Nah-sounds bigger." She takes Dawn's hand, "Decided who you're gonna room with?"
"Well actually-there's an odd number so I don't have to." She smiles. "Makes the sneaking out easier."
"Sneaking where?"
"Anywhere-out dancing-to your room-" she kisses Faith softly as she raises her eyebrows up then down playfully. Faith smiles.
In the back Kennedy is staring out the window as well. She turns to Willow, "Do you think it'll be like Sunnydale?"
"In some ways I'm sure-it's Hellmouth too." She pauses, "Why?"
"Just wondering-" she turns back to the window.
Willow suddenly understands and puts her hand on Kennedy's shoulder. All the teenager knew of Sunnydale was death and violence. She hadn't seen any of the good. "Sweetie, don't worry-"
"How can I not-" she turns back-her eyes meeting Willow's.
"I lived my whole life there-it was pretty normal most of the time."
Kennedy looks unsure, "I don't remember anything normal."
"I remember a certain potential flirting-that's pretty normal," smiles the redhead. Kennedy nods and smiles. "We'll keep her safe, I promise."
"Okay-" she cuddles into her lover's arms. They sit quietly as Willow wraps her in her arms.
Finally just as dusk is starting to settle on the city Giles, who is again driving, brings the bus to a halt at a gated road. He inserts a card into a small box and the gates swing open.
"Wow-cool," says a couple young Slayers. Everyone moves to look out the windows as they move onto the driveway and soon the house is in sight.
"Holy shit," echoes through the bus as Faith speaks for all there.
Buffy murmurs, "Right there with you."
Excited talk filters through the bus as Xander just smiles.
Kennedy looks at Willow as she feels suddenly at home, "It has wings."
Faith and Dawn have moved to the front of the bus, "Look at the size of this place D-" the teen is speechless. She simply nods.
"There's a complex in the back for training," says the Watcher.
Faith smiles, "This is kick ass-" she can't get over the place. The bus stops and they all start for the doors at once jamming the aisles.
"Could we have some sort of order?" Tries the man. The Slayers push their way out the door. "Guess not." He looks to see the bus now empty except for Kennedy and Willow who still sit in the back.
"You did good Giles," smiles the redhead as she and Kennedy start forward.
He smiles, "After you," he says as they reach him. They exit and he follows. When they enter the already open door they see the others standing in the entrance hall their mouths agape.
"Wow-" says the redhead as she looks around. Her word causes the others to regain their own voices and a soft rumble begins to fill the room.
Chapter 10
They are all still standing in the entrance hall. Looking around the ground floor. Giles speaks, "If I could have your attention please." The voices stop and they all look to the man. "Up the stairs are the bedrooms that the new Slayers will be using."
Xander finishes, "Remember two to a room-"
Before they can leave Buffy adds, "And play nice." They run in both directions and take the stairs two at a time.
"Think that was wise?" Asks Giles. "Don't you think a little chaperoning is in order?"
"Nah-G-don't sweat it-there are plenty of Slayers now. What's a few less if someone gets a little rage-y?"
"So true," agrees Buffy and the Slayers smile.
"So," starts Dawn, "They've got rooms. Do we?" She looks to Xander.
"Big apartment-y type rooms," smiles the man. "Wanna see?"
Willow smiles, "Can't wait."
"Don't have to," says her friend.
A little later Willow and Kennedy stand in the doorway to their new home. They step inside hand-in-hand as Xander smiles and closes the door. The wall by the door side has an entertainment system that holds a large television, a DVD player with stereo sound and a music system. From there they see the couch and love seat. "Can you believe this?" Says Kennedy who then spots her favorite arcade game against the wall to her left. "You knew?" Her eyes meet Willow's"
The redhead shakes her head, "No-I mean, Xander asked what game was your favorite but I didn't know-" she stops and squeals as she sees the state of the art computer not five feet from the game. "Gods-" she says words gone. She takes a step towards a large, book filled shelf in front of her. "Giles, it had to be."
"Pretty much think they all three should get the credit." They join hands and continue toward the back of their place. They look in the bathroom and smile.
"Bubble baths," she looks to her girl and bites her bottom lip.
"Like the sound of that," she pulls her into a hug and then kisses her softly.
They turn and see the bed and smile. "Tired?" Asks the redhead.
"Couldn't sleep," admits the teenager.
"Too excited?" Asks Willow.
"Yeah-" she nods. Her eyes settle on a door across from them. "Wonder what this is?"
"A closet maybe," says the witch. She opens it and they see a rocking chair and then a crib- they both tear up. "How did he-" she leans in and kisses her love.
"A room for the baby-" Kennedy can't stop the tears as she steps forward.
Willow wraps her arms around her from behind. "Yeah-" smiles the redhead as she rests her hand on her young Slayer's stomach. "What do you think-Emilee-you like it?"
"She loves it," Kennedy turns just enough to press a kiss to Willow's lips. Turning back around she tries to hide a yawn.
"Saw that," says her redhead pressing her lips to the young Slayer's temple. "Why don't you take a nap and I'll get us some dinner?"
"No-want to snuggle," whines the young Slayer with a smile. "Please?" Kennedy gives the puppy dog eyes and the witch crumbles.
"Okay-but you no funny stuff missy-eyes closed."
"Got it," she smiles and they walk to the bed. They crawl in from opposite sides and meet in the middle. "One kiss?" Asks the young Slayer, her chocolate brown eyes meeting Willow's green.
"One," says the redhead as she leans in and their lips meet and then begin to move together. The gentle pace of the opening and closing continues until Kennedy pulls back and yawns again.
"Sorry," she smiles.
"S'okay, sleep." Willow pulls her girl to her and then spoons around her, hands again settling on her Slayer's stomach. She presses her lips to Kennedy shoulder and listens for the even breathing that means sleep has taken her girl.
While down the hallway Faith opens the door to the room next door. She and Dawn step inside and her eyes light up. "Shit-" she says as she stares at the things around her.
"Look the shooting game you like," smiles Dawn.
Faith smiles too, "And a whole game system," she says as she moves toward the television. "This is rock'em sock'em D-" she walks toward the heavy bag that hangs from the ceiling. "It's got everything."
"Looks like-" she glances to the bed.
Faith follows her girl's eyes and smiles, "You're bad-D-" she steps to her and kisses her softly.
"What do you want to do now?" Asks the teen.
"Well, first we're not going near the bed-second-we're not going near the bed," she smiles and Dawn swats at her playfully. She wraps her in a tight hug from behind. "What do you say we check out your place and then find food?" Just to put and exclamation point on her words her stomach growls loudly.
"Sure you don't want food first?" Smiles the teenager.
"I'll live," she takes Dawn by the hand and they walk back to the hallway. They go to the room and teenager smiles as she opens the door.
It's much like Faith's but a bit smaller. She smiles at the large stereo DVD system and television. Then it fades when she sees the desk- "School-ewe" she whines.
"School's important," says Faith.
"I know-but I don't have to like it." Dawn smiles but it again leaves quickly as she sees the sadness in Faith's eyes before she can hide it. "What?"
"Nothing, D." She kisses her trying to distract the teenager.
"Nice try, start talking." She gives the Slayer her best Summers' glare.
"It's just-something else I screwed up at."
"You could get your GED," says Dawn.
"Could try-don't think I could pass it."
"I could help you," offers her girl. Faith considers the words but before she can answer her stomach growls again. "Let's get you some food- can't finish school if you starve first."
Faith smiles and kisses her softly. "Food-then we'll talk about-" she rolls her eyes and Dawn smiles. They leave hand-in-hand as they do Faith notices the door at the end of the hall. "Where's that go?"
"Let's find out," they start that direction.
Willow presses her lips to Kennedy's check as she carefully gets out of bed. She walks back down the hallway and into the entranceway. She starts down the hallway and on her right she sees a door, she stops to look inside and sees a computer lab and then shelves and shelves of books. She smiles and wanders inside her hand touching everything she passes. She stops as she sees Giles in the corner at his desk-and other across from him is empty. "So-books and computers," she smiles. "Who dragged you into the twenty first century?"
"Xander insisted, I could live with it," the man smiles. "Does it meet with you approval?" He looks to the other desk.
"You mean?"
"If you like-" he says.
"I like," she moves to the desk and sits down. "Wow-" she can't seem to wipe the smile from her face. She bites her lip and then stands. "Have you seen Xander?"
"Not for a while-" says the watcher. "Try the kitchen. It's at the end of the hall.
"Thanks-" she smiles and leaves, looking back one last time at what she is sure will be her second favorite room.
Back in the hallway she hears noise coming from the room to her left, again looking inside she smiles. The room has a massive television and entertainment package-CD's and DVD's line the racks to either side. There are couches and chairs all around the room and young Slayers fill most of them as they laugh and talk while the noise continues around them. There are two pool tables in the middle of the room and then some tables at the far side. She smiles and thinks about the fun that will be had in this room in the years to come.
She wanders on the end of the long hall to stares at the kitchen area and the dining room. "Wow-" she says again and hears a voice respond.
"Thought you'd be past the Wow stage by now Will-" says Xander as he stands and walks toward her.
Before he can say anything else she launches at him and hugs him tightly. "I love you-" she starts and then full babble takes over as he tries to decipher her words. "The baby's room and how-when," she stops as tears start.
"So you liked it?" She nods and he smiles. "I know a guy who knows a guy and I called them. Thought I 'd surprise you."
"It worked and Emilee liked it too-she said to thank Uncle Xander."
"Emilee huh?"
"Yeah-" before they can continue Faith, Dawn, Buffy and a room full of Slayers enter all asking about food.
Xander says, "Why don't we find out who delivers and order pizza-we'll shop for groceries tomorrow."
"A man with a plan," smiles Buffy as she puts an arm around him. Faith picks up the phone from the counter as Dawn searches through some drawers for a phone book.
"What's everyone want?" Asks Faith and the young Slayers all start talking at once. After a couple of pointless minutes the once dark Slayer whistles loudly. "Enough-I'm ordering a little of everything-so deal."
Willow smiles, "Something sorta healthy for Kennedy okay?"
"You got it Red-and how about a salad?"
"That's good," smiles the redhead and Faith smiles too.
Later Willow walks into the apartment she shares with her Slayer with food in her hands. She moves toward the bed but sees it is empty. She sets the food there and looks up to see the door to the baby's room is open and she smiles. She walks inside to find Kennedy sitting in the rocking chair. She looks up and smiles at her redhead, "Happy?" Asks Willow and the young Slayer nods. "Got dinner," she holds out her hand and Kennedy takes it. They go to the bed and sit down.
She sees pasta, a salad, and an apple in front of her and then Willow's pizza, "Where's my pizza?" Asks the young Slayer.
"I thought this would be healthier for Emilee," she waits for the argument but it doesn't come. Kennedy simply begins to eat. The redhead smiles.
The next morning the gang is in the kitchen, Buffy and Willow are cleaning up the trash from another fast-food run. Kennedy, Faith, Dawn, Xander and Giles are there as well. "So what's the plan for today?" Asks Faith.
Giles looks at the group, "I need to meet with a gentleman on Council business. In fact, I should be going." He stands and takes a set of keys from the rack. He looks to Xander, "You have the envelopes?" Xander pats his pocket and the man leaves.
"What was that all about?" Asks Buffy as she sits next to him.
He looks at the Slayer, "He wants you to take the girls to the mall-shop for clothes." He smiles as he sees her face. She can't decide if that's a good or bad thing and her face reflects it. "It's money," he hands them to her.
"How am I supposed to get there?" Asks the blonde.
"The green tag is the van key," she walks to the rack.
Willow looks unsure, "Giles bought Buffy a car?"
"Hey-" says the blonde to her friend not liking the tone.
"What," says the redhead. "I love you Buffy my friend, but you can't drive."
"I can," protests the Slayer. She looks to Xander for support but gets none.
"You can't ," he admits. "There are five cars, for us to share."
"Cool," says Dawn
"You don't have a license," says the blonde and her sister glares at her.
"Maybe not but I drive better than you," Dawn counters.
Faith stands, "We told Giles we'd do the grocery shopping so, which car for us?"
"Red tag-should give you plenty of room," Faith gets money from him and then gets the key. She and Dawn leave before the arguing can continue.
Buffy looks to those still in the room, "What are the three of you going to do while I'm with teenagers at the mall?"
"I'm meeting about that project we talked about on the bus."
She smiles and nods, "Will-Kennedy wanna come with?"
"Sorry, we've got an appointment with the doctor." She looks to her young Slayer who is suddenly nervous. Willow takes her hand.
"I hate doctors," says the girl softly.
"I know." She presses a kiss to her lips.
"How did you get in so fast?" Asks the blonde.
"Giles knows people too." She smiles at Xander, "What color for us?"
"Yellow." They both smile.
At the grocery store people are staring as Faith drives one shopping cart and Dawn drives another, both are nearly full. "Gonna need another cart," says Faith.
"I'll take this one to the front and get a new one. Meet me in the cereal aisle."
"I'll grab some fruit and see you there," they move in two directions after a soft kiss.
At the mall Buffy has the fifteen girls in front of her blocking their way to the door. "Listen," she starts as she looks from one to another, "Don't be loud, don't run, and most important if you don't want to walk home-be right here at 4:00- they nod and she moves the horde enters the mall. She shakes her head and smiles, then follows them through the doors.
Xander is at a construction site, he and two men are talking. "I'll have the measurements and the specs to you in a couple of days."
"Sounds good-but why are we working at night?"
"It's a surprise for a friend."
"Won't they hear the pounding?" Asks the younger of the men.
"That's taken care of," he smiles.
Kennedy and Willow sit in the waiting room of the office. The paper work has been filled out and handed in to the receptionist. Kennedy stands and begins to pace. "Relax baby," says Willow as she stands as well and wraps the woman in her arms from behind. She whispers in her ear. "It's gonna be okay."
"K-" says Kennedy as she takes a deep breath and lets it out slowly.
"Kennedy Sandez-" says the nurse. They both look her way. Willow takes her hand and Kennedy nods at the woman. "Follow me please." They do.
Later they are sitting in the office with the doctor, she smiles as she leans against her desk in front of them. "You're not very far along-what made you even think-" she stops.
"Been really nauseous-so-" she stops looking at Willow.
"So we did a home test-it was positive."
"Mr. Giles explained about the charm-"
Willow and Kennedy look shocked, "He did-but-" she stops.
"My mother was a Watcher-" says the woman and Willow smiles. "I have some vitamin supplements," she hands them to Kennedy. "Take them every day."
"Right-okay-" she nods.
"Rest-let your body get use to the changes. Are you still nauseous?"
"Most days," admits Kennedy and Willow looks at her unsure. "I didn't want you to worry." She answers the question the redhead was thinking.
She hands them both some brochures, "Read them, talk about them." They nod. "Do you have any questions?"
"Lots of questions," says the young Slayer. "Ah-but one that's more important than the others."
The woman smiles, "Yes, you can still have sex-"
Willow blushes, "That was the second question."
"My mom she died when I was born-is that, the complications she had-" Kennedy stops unable to finish as tears slide down her face. She looks to her redhead Willow tightens the hold on her hand.
"Does that increase the chances that Kennedy will have problems too?"
"I'd have to know the back ground-"
"She hemorrhaged-they couldn't stop the bleeding," Willow adds.
"She-they had to do a C-section-something about her pelvis," Kennedy tries to stay calm.
The doctor looks at the scared young women in front of her, "We'll just have to keep an eye on her size and we'll do some tests on you, as the pregnancy progress, but it doesn't sound like it's an inherited problem."
"No?" Ask the young mother-to-be.
"No-" says the doctor.
Kennedy cries again and Willow looks to her girl, "Shhhh-" she puts a hand on her shoulder. "It's okay-" she assures her girl.
"You take care of yourself-eat right, exercise, and listen to your body and you should have a healthy little girl that you can watch grow up."
"The exercising-" Willow starts.
"I'm a Slayer-" says the young woman.
"I'm aware-" she smiles. "Welcome to the Hellmouth. But as I understand you're not the only one."
"No-" she smiles at her redhead.
"So take some time off-" says the doctor.
"Okay-" agrees the young Slayer.
"I'll see you again in about four weeks.-Call if you need anything."
"We will," says the young Slayer.
Xander comes from a side door into the kitchen to find Dawn and Faith kissing. He clears his throat and they break apart. "Need help bringing the groceries in?"
"Wouldn't complain," smiles the once rogue Slayer. The three turn and go back out the door. "How'd you get in?" She asks.
"My secret," smiles the man.
At the mall the young Slayers scramble to get back on time the last two reach the door of the van with bags in hand just as the blonde Slayer is pulling away. They yell- "Buffy wait!" She smiles and stops. They load into the vehicle.
Kennedy and Willow are snuggled together on the bed each reading a brochure. "Says here that long, really hot bathes are a bad thing," says the redhead. "Guess bubbles will have to wait."
Kennedy turns in her arms and kisses her softly, "Better news here-" she takes Willow's hand a puts it on her breast. "Mmmm-" she moans at her redhead's touch. She tries to refocus as the witch massages her gently. "That my breast will grow at least a cup size in the month."
"I'll trade bubbles for that," smirks the redhead as she begins to kiss and lick at Kennedy's neck. She moves up and sucks her earlobe into her mouth before letting it go to return to the soft skin of her neck. Kennedy is already lost-her body humming as Willow's hands and mouth caress her everywhere at once. She moans the redhead's name as she feels a leg work its way between hers.
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