chapter 1
Spoilers for season 5.
feedback welcome....
***
Angel- Its Buffy.
Willow starts to cry.
Willow- She’s dead.
Cordy- What?
Gunn- (to Wesley) This is his Slayer she’s talking about, right?
Wes- (to Gunn) Yes.
Angel- (in shock, doesn’t move) How?
Willow breaks down crying. Can’t speak. Cordelia runs up to her and holds her.
Cordelia- (to them, dotingly) We need to do something.
Tara comes in from outside carrying a bag filled with food.
Tara- (seeing what is going on) Willow?
Gunn- Who are you?
Tara- (a bit frightened by him) Uh… (runs to Willow) Baby…
Cordy sees Tara wrap Willow in her arms. She realizes who this is.
Cordelia- (mouths to Wesley while pointing at the girls) Girlfriend.
Gunn- (to Wes) What?
Wesley- I don’t understand either.
They see Tara reach for Willow’s face and kiss her lips. She’s keeping her calm.
Gunn- Oh.
Wesley- (understanding) Yes. (sounds wrong) I mean, right. I get it.
Next scene.
Tara slowly and quietly walks out of a room. Fred is there.
Fred- How is she?
Tara- Sleeping. We’ve been up for days.
Fred- Aren’t you tired?
Tara- I have to take care of her.
With the rest. Angel is present but not talking.
Wes- I cant believe this.
Tara- None of us do. Dawn is destroyed. She’s with Giles but- Everybody’s a mess. No one knows what to do.
Cordy - There’s nothing to do.
Gunn- Will another Slayer be called? I mean- (he looks over to Angel, he’s not even flinched)
Wes- I’m not sure. Kendra was called, then Faith. Faith is still the Slayer. I think.
Angel- Get out.
Wes- What?
Angel- GET OUT!
Everyone scampers off.
Cordy- (pointing a finger at Wesley) If he goes insane-
Wes- He’s mourning.
Cordy- Remember what happened last time he mourned a loved one?
Gunn- We were fired.
Tara- What?
Cordy- (to T) Nothing.
Fred- Can I go get a taco now?
Cordy- Hello, Fred. A friend of ours just died. (suddenly it hits her) Oh my god. Buffy’s dead? Wes- She cant- We… (breaks down crying, Wesley comforts her)
Tara- (is starting to tear up) But everyone else is fine… Dawn is still alive and things are ok in Sunnydale. Xander and Anya are engaged.
Cordy- What? Xander? He’s getting married?
Tara- (oops) I mean-
Cordy- To Anya? That demon?! (cries more)
Fred- (to Tara) Honey, maybe you should stop talking.
Tara nods.
Next.
Willow slowly wakes up. The room is a bit dark but she knows someone is there.
Willow- Angel?
Angel- (he’s lurking by the window) Yeah... Did I ever tell you I was sorry for killing your fish?
Willow- What?
Angel- I’m sorry. About your fish.
Willow- (about to tear up again) I don’t remember. But thank you. I got new ones.
Angel- That’s how it goes doesn’t it? When something dies you just get a new one.
Willow- I didn’t mean-
Angel- Life is like that. You love, you lose, you love again. You die, you come back, you live again.
Willow- Angel.
Angel- But she’s not coming back, is she?
Willow- (starts to cry) No.
The rest are sitting about. Wes and Gunn are around Cordy. She’s a bit better from earlier. Tara and Fred are sitting off talking, the outsiders.
Tara- You were in this Pylea for five years?
Fred- Yeah.
Tara- That must have been horrible.
Fred- I felt like I had lost my mind.
Tara- I know the feeling.
Wes- How are you feeling?
Cordy- At least I’m not getting a vision.
At that, duh, she gets a vision.
Cordy- AHHHHH!!!
The gather around her. Tara and Fred run up.
Gunn- I got you.
Fred- (awed) Is the princess having a vision?
Tara- Princess?
Wes- Are you all right?
Cordy- Obvioulsy not. Eww!
Wes- What?
Cordy- Not another sewer demon.
Gunn- What’s it look like?
Cordy- Like- Alf?
Wes- What?
Gunn- I don’t know.
Tara- The alien? From TV?
Cordy- Jackpot for Willow’s girlfriend.
Tara- Um, Tara is just fine.
Cordy- (screams again) AHHHHH!
Wes- What?!
Angel and Willow run down.
Angel- What is going on?
Willow- Is Cordy all right?
Angel- She has visions.
Willow- Visions?
Angel- Long story. (to them) What?
Wes- Demon in the sewer.
Angel- What’s it look like?
Wes- Alf.
Angel- Alf?
Willow- The alien from TV?
Fred- (to Willow) Can you guys read each others mind? (she points back and forth from Willow and Tara)
Willow- (looks to Tara) What? (tara shakes her head and smirks)
Angel- What does this thing look like? You know what, it doesn’t matter. I’ll go look for it.
Wes- Angel, the sun will be up in a few. Let Gunn take it.
Angel- It’s in the sewer. No sunlight.
He takes off. The rest look at each other uncomfortable.
Gunn- I’d want to kill something too if I was him.
Later.
Willow and Tara in the room. Tara walks up to Willow who’s on her side staring off into nothing. Tara sits by her.
Tara- How are you? (willow sighs, keeps staring off) Oh, darling. (starts to stroke her hair) Is there anything I can do?
Willow- (sniffles and looks at her) Make love to me.
Tara- Willow…
Willow- I feel like a part of me is dead.
Tara- (kisses her) No, honey, no.
Fred and Cordy.
Fred- So, you grew up with these girls?
Cordy- (with an ice pack at her head) With the redhead. She was in love with *my* boyfriend, well until he cheated on me with *her*, and now he’s getting married to a vengeance demon *I* summoned. I can’t do anything right except have these blinding visions.
Fred- But, she and Tara seem-
Cordy- Yeah, well, you never know. My best friend Harmony turned into a vampire and tried to kill me. People from Sunnydale are weird.
Fred- You’re from Sunnydale.
Cordy- Yeah and I got visions, baby.
Wesley knocks on a door but doesn’t wait for an answer. He enters. Tara jumps off Willow, and falls to the floor with a loud thump.
Wes- AHH!!!
Willow- Wesley!
Tara- Ow…
Wes- (covers his eyes with his hand) Dreadfully sorry. Didn’t see a thing. Sorry. (backs out)
Wesley sighs after shutting the door. Gunn is outside smiling.
Gunn- Not even a little peek?
Wes rolls his eyes.
Willow reaches down to Tara.
Willow- Are you ok?
Tara- Rug burn. (Willow starts to laugh re: her smile and laughter) I love that. I love you.
Willow- (tearing up again) I love you, Tara. In this world and beyond.
Gunn and Wesley. Walking down the stairs.
Wes- I guess I’ll have to go talk to Faith alone.
Gunn- Faith? The other Slayer? Isn’t she in jail?
Wes- Yes.
Gunn- Then why talk to her?
Wes- She’s the final Slayer.
********************************************
chapter 2
notes: waring! cliffhanger. as usal... hehe... i’m a weevil faerie otter princess and i do what i wish.
Dedicated to Ruth. I don’t know ya that well but I know you love Faith. so here ya go, just a taste of what's to come....
At the prison.
Faith enters the cubicle. Sees Wesley and Gunn standing stoically behind him.
Faith- (grabs phone) Way to go, Wes. Finally got a boyfriend, huh?
Wesley- Faith...
Faith- Sorry. Just a little nervous. Mid-night rondevouz. Must be important.
Wesley- I’m afraid it is.
Faith- So, spill. (worried) Is it Angel?
Wesley- No, its not.
Faith- So? Come man I’m growing old here.
Wesley- I don’t know how to say this-
Faith- (sternly) Just say it.
Wesley- Buffy... (he can’t finish, can’t look at her either)
Faith- (beat, takes this in) No. You’re lying.
Wesley- I wish I were.
Faith- (drops the phone and suddenly stands up, punches the bulletproof glass. it rips but doesn’t break) No! No! (keeps punching the glass as the guard tries to restrain her) Liar! (Faith starts to cry as she struggles with the guard. a second one tries to hold her back) No! Wesley!
Wesley places his hand on the glass, he’s reaching out to her. But they drag her off.
Gunn- So, that’s Faith huh? I thought Angel said she was doing better.
Wesley- This is better. She didn’t beat up the guards.
Gunn- (looking at the glass) One more punch and this thing is just about ready to shatter. (at that the window shatters) Or not.
Wesley- We need to speak to Angel at once.
Gunn- He’s with the tv alien demon thing.
Wesley- Let’s go find him.
At the hotel. Willow goes to Cordy. Cordy is by the front desk, at the computer station.
Willow- Cordelia?
Cordy- Willow.
W- How are you feeling?
Cordy- A little better. Thank you... How are you? (Willow shrugs her shoulders) I just want you to know that even though I hated all of you in high school, I really didn’t. (Willow nods and looks as if she’s about to cry) I didn’t take what you people were doing seriously and now that I fight the good fight- let’s just say I have a new respect for you Scoobies. And I’m really sorry for the hell I put you through. Let me just tell you all that bad karma is kicking me in the butt right now.
Willow- (smirks) How’d you get your visions?
C- Doyle. He was a half demon. Worked with us for a while and then... (gets lost in her memories)
W- Why are you dressed like Princess Leia?
C- Long, long story. Where’s Fred?
W- She and Tara went to get tacos. That Fred girl seems a bit obsessed with them.
C- I hope they don’t go to joint two blocks down.
W- Why not?
C- I didn’t see Gunn or Wesley for hours after they ate there once.
W- Oh.
Angel, Wesley and Gunn enter the hotel.
Wesley- That is impossible, Angel. Buffy was reinstated to the Watchers Council. Faith has not. She is not an official Slayer anymore.
Angel- She is the only Slayer they’ve got.
Wesley- Wrong. You know very well there are others in training right now. One is being called to her destiny as we speak.
Angel- The only way for a new Slayer to be called is if the last one dies. Faith is the last one.
C- Stop all the shouting! I haven’t fully recovered from my vision yet.
Wesley- Angel, I was a Watcher with the Council. I know the rules. Faith needs to be taken out.
Willow- (shocked) You cant kill her!
Wesley- (just as shocked) What?! (explaining) Out of prison, Willow.
W- Oh.
Angel- (concerned he doesn’t see Fred) Where’s Fred?
W- She’s with Tara.
Angel- Oh. Ok.
C- So, is anyone going to tell me what happened? What did she say?
Wesley- Well-
Gunn- Not much. Just punched out a bulletproof panel.
C- Wow. Guessing the Slayer strength still there.
W- But- What else?
Wesley- She didn’t believe me.
W- Maybe- I don’t know. Should I?
Angel- No. Definitely not. She’ll need a couple of days to digest.
Gunn- She’ll probably want to kill somethings too.
Wesley- She is ticking time bomb in there, Angel. You know that. We need to help her now.
Angel- Well, then maybe someone shouldn’t have told her just yet.
Wesley- Hey-
W- Stop! (separates them off like Xander and Spike)
C- (impressed) Go, Willow!
W- None of this is helping anyone.
Wesley- (a bit upset) Well what is it you suppose we do, Willow?
Gunn- Hey, man, don’t piss her off. She can probably turn you into a cockroach or something.
Willow- I think we all need to rest, Welsey. We’ll think of something in the morning.
Cordelia- (screams) No! (another vision grips her)
Gunn- (runs to her) Another one?
Angel- It’s too soon!
Cordy- (crying in pain) Willow!
Wesley- What? What is it?
Cordy- Tara and Fred.
Chapter 3
Sunnydale:
Xander and Anya arrive at their apt. Anya is wearing a cast and a bandage over her forehead. She sits on the couch as Xander settles the overnight bag by the kitchen.
Xander- Are you comfortable? Need anything?
Anya- Yes, and no.
Xander- Good.
Xander goes over and sits with her.
Anya- Tara. Where’s Tara.
Xander- Huh? She went to LA with Willow.
Anya- How is she doing?
Xander- (sighs) Will is Will. She’s a strong little toaster.
Anya- I meant Tara.
Xander- Oh. Fine, I guess. At least she’s back. I don’t know, Ahn. I didn’t really ask her at the funeral.
Anya- I’m thinking she should be my Maid of Honor. She’s kinda my only friend here. Or anywhere for that matter. When I was reading those books about children I read about the wedding traditions humans have. A Maid of Honor is one of them.
Xander- Wow. Um, yeah.
Anya- I figure Willow will be your Best Man.
Xander- Will’s a girl.
Anya- So what? We can break tradition. Giles can even perform the ceremony.
Xander- Ahn, I really don’t think this is the time to be-
Anya- Well if I don’t think about that I think of Buffy. And I don’t want to think of Buffy. I mean I do, but not- I’m sorry she died. Like Dawn said she saved the world a lot. And I like this world and I’m glad she saved it again cause now you and I can get married and grow old together and have lots of babies. Well, babies first and then grow old. But then I think I’m being selfish because-
Xander- She was the selfish one.
Anya- (eyes wide) How can you say that? She sacrificed herself for her sister. For all of us.
Xander- She didn’t have to.
Spike in his crypt. He’s got the Buffy bot and a bunch of books sprawled around his *living* room. He’s trying to re-attach her head.
Spike- And what bloody wire would that be? Frikkin’ book might as well be written in Chinese for all I understand. Wait, I know Chinese.
Dawn- (by the door) Chinese is not a language. It’s actually a bunch of different dialects.
Spike- (surprised, stands in front of the bot body) Nibblet.
Dawn- What are you doing?
Spike- What are *you* doing?
Dawn- I needed to get out of there... Why do you have the bot?
Spike- I’m trying to fix her up. For you.
Dawn- Isn’t that a little incestuous?
Spike- (smirks) Red deprogrammed that. I mean, no. I meant... I’m trying to bring her back.
Dawn- Buffy’s dead. There is no coming back. I learned that with mom.
Spike- Dawn...
Dawn- My father is coming to pick me up next week. Can you believe that? Someone actually got in touch with him. It only took two deaths. And not that he’s my father anyway.
Spike- (is speechless) Maybe it’s for the better. You should leave this Hellhole.
Dawn- Why haven’t you?
Spike- Maybe I will.
Back in LA.
Willow- What about Tara?! What’s going on?
C- Down the street. Fred’s puking. Ugh! I can smell it!
Gunn- Why would you get a vision about that?
C- Big, yucky demon behind them.
Angel- I’m on it.
Wesley- Me too.
Gunn- Three.
Willow- Four.
Wesley and Gunn go ahead. Angel turns to Willow.
Angel- Willow, stay here.
Willow- No! My life is out there.
C- (not hearing her properly) Your wife?!
Willow- Life! She’s my life! Angel!
Angel- No.
C- Trust him Willow and get me another ice pack. Please.
Willow relents and does as she is told.
Later.
Tara, Willow, Angel, Wesley are sitting around. Gunn is with Cordy and Fred upstairs.
Tara- A demon?
Wesley- It must have seen us and ran away.
Angel- It doesn’t make sense. What were you two doing?
Tara- Just talking. Fred ate a taco on the walk over and then it hit her.
Willow- A demon?
Tara- No, the food poisoning.
Willow- So where was the demon?
Tara- There was no demon.
Wesley- (feeling like he’s being ignored) Like I said, it must have seen us coming.
Willow- (to Angel) Could Cordy be wrong? Maybe it’s something in the future.
Angel- That is what the visions are.
Willow- Oh.
Wesley- She’s getting worse, Angel. We need to do something.
Willow- What do you mean?
Angel- Those visions are too powerful for a human body to endure. Cordy's been getting weaker and her hangovers are lasting longer.
Willow- Maybe we can help.
Wesley- How?
Willow- Magick.
Tara- Willow, no.
Willow- Why not? I’m sure I can find a spell that’ll help Cordelia.
Tara- No. No more magick.
Willow- What? Magick is what brought you back to me.
Tara- Magick is what almost killed you.
Angel- Ok. Obviously this is a private conversation that doesn’t require us. I’m going to go check up on the girls. (he gets up and begins to walk away)
Wes- (very interested) What level of magick are you at, Willow?
Angel- Wesley...
Wesley- (stands up) Right. Lets go.
Willow turns to Tara.
Willow- What was all that about?
Tara- (cant look at her) I-I dont want you doing any s-spells for a while.
Willow- What?! Why? Tara. (gently hold her face up to her)
Tara- (about to cry) When Dawn- When she mentioned what you did to Glory after- It broke my heart. I can’t lose you, Willow. I can’t.
Willow- How would you lose me, baby? Besides, I told you I’ll always find you.
Tara- No. You need to control yourself. The quickest way for you to fix things is through magick. Thats not right. You know the rules, Willow.
Willow- You would have rather I left you like that? You’re insane. (realizes what she’s said) I mean-
Tara- I know what you mean. And I’m not talking about me. I’m talking about what you did to Glory. In her apartment.
Willow- (small) I had to make her suffer.
Tara- I know. But I would rather live in a thousand black holes than- (starts to cry) Willow.
Willow- (holds her) Oh, baby. We’ll be ok. I promise.
Chapter 4.
Next day. Morning. Wesley and Gunn are out. Angel is sleeping and Tara and Cordy are making coffee downstairs.
Tara- H-how are you feeling?
Cordy- Like a Mac truck ran me over. No, actually, it just ran over my head.
Tara- I’m- I’m sorry. Did you take a Tylenol?
Cordy- If I take one more it may be considered attempted suicide. (typical Cordelia) How long have you and Willow been going out?
Fred knocks on Willow’s door. She’s wearing Cordelias Sunnydale High sweater and a skirt that doesn’t match.
Fred- Hi.
Willow- Hey. Good morning, Fred.
Fred- Morning. They’re going to make some breakfast. You coming? (Willow nods as she brushes her hair) You know, this reality for only having one sun it’s pretty bright in the morning. Or maybe it’s just ‘cause I’m used to waking up in my cave.
Willow- (confused) What?
Fred- (giggles uncontrollably) Your face is funny.
Willow- I do not have a funny face.
Willow and Fred go downstairs. Tara is giggling at a story Cordy is telling her.
Cordy- And then Willow had- (sees Willow) Uh. Hey! Good morning.
Willow- (knows something is up) Hi. (kisses Tara) What’s going on?
Tara- (giggling) She was just telling me about the time that time Xander put gum in your hair and Cordy said she’d cut it out for you except she- um, it was funny when you w-weren’t in the room.
Willow- (not too amused) Really?
Cordy- I’m showing her our yearbook pictures next. They are about the only thing no one bought at the auction.
Willow- Don’t you dare, Cordelia!
Fred- (looking at the stove) Can we make enchiladas for breakfast? But not with bark. Those don’t taste too good.
Cordelia- Oh my god! Haven’t you had enough Mexican for at least a year? Maybe two?
Tara- (to Will) I’d like to see you in elementary school.
Willow- I’ve shown you pictures.
Tara- Yeah but yearbooks are different. They catch you at your worst time.
Willow- Tare Bear, no. (whining) Please.
Cordy- Tare Bear?
Willow- Only I can call her that.
Cordy- Whatever. As if.
Fred- Care Bears! I remember Care Bears and cloud cars! I remember! And the lion bear and the sun bear and... Some other bears...
Cordy- Uh, ok? Did you puke your brain out last night?
Willow- Well, duh.
Cordy- I was literally speaking. (rolls her eyes) I mean, speaking literally. I need another Tylenol.
Willow- You haven’t changed a bit have you, Cordelia?
Cordy- Oh I so have missy! You’re not the only one that’s changed since high school.
Willow- Oh, you’re gay now too?
Cordy is about to say something but another voice interrupts.
Lorne- (walking in) Since when did this hotel become a brothel full of cackling chicks? Hot ones too I might add.
Cordy- (to Lorne) Oh, shut up!
Tara- (jumps behind Willow) Demon!
Fred- Oh, that’s no demon. That’s just Lorne. He’s from the Deathwok Clan.
Willow- Sounds friendly.
Lorne- (walks over to Willow and Tara) And who might you be beautiful?
Willow- Willow.
Lorne- I know who you are, Red. (reaches out for Tara) I meant this one.
Tara- T-Tara.
Lorne- Is that with one T or two? (kisses her hand) The pleasure is all mine.
Fred giggles.
Willow- Hey, this is my girlfriend you are flirting with. And how do you know who I am?
Lorne- I saw you when Angel sang once. You were Buffy’s best friend.
Willow- (both hurt by the mentioning of Buffy’s name and not understanding) What?
Cordy- He reads your soul and tells you your destiny when you sing kareoki at his bar. That’s his demonic power.
Willow- (not believing her) And Angel sang kareoki?
Cordy- (duh) Yeah. We all did.
Willow- Maybe, you have changed.
Lorne- I know this is a little early for his grumpyness but have him swing by the club tonight. I may have some information for him. (he’s about to leave but stops) And you my precious blonde goddess are certainly welcome to come. I’ll sing a medley just for you.
Tara is blushing so hard she just nods while biting her lower lip trying to hide her smile.
Willow- (bitter)We’re leaving today. Sorry.
Lorne- Sunnydale doesn’t need you right now, darling. Come by tonight and we’ll chat. Ta-ta.
Later that morning. Willow is sitting at Wesley’s desk a dialing a number.
W- Xander?
X- Hey, Will. How are you?
W- (doesn’t really want to talk about anything) Ok. How’s Anya?
X- Former ex demon keeps reminding me that she’s been injured twice this year.
W- Yeah, well, it comes with the territory of being a Scoob.
X- Yeah. (beat) How’s Queen C? Need we hold an emergency session of the long defunct “I Hate Cordelia Chase Club?” I’ll let you use the gavel this time.
W- (chuckles softly) Nah. She gets painful visions now.
X- Huh?
W- Long story... Have you seen Dawn?
X- Um, no. Not since- She’s staying at Giles’, ya know? (feeling a bit guilty) I should call her.
W- Yeah.
X- How’s Tara?
W- Ok. She and Fred went to Cordelia’s apartment a minute.
X- Cordy’s got a boyfriend?
W- Fred’s a girl.
X- Oh. Cordy’s got a girlfriend?
W- (chuckles) No.
X- Are you ok there?
W- (soberly) No. You?
X- No.
W- Yeah.
X- How did Angel- He didn’t go all evil did he?
W- No. Wesley told Faith though.
X- What?!
W- Yeah, he’s an idiot.
X- Well, yeah. She’s still in jail though, right?
W- Yes.
X- But- (Anya calls out to him) Hold on a sec... Ok, sweetie. I’ll be right there. (back to Willow) Hey, Will-
W- Go. I’ll talk to you soon.
X- See you tonight.
W- Oh, yeah. We’re staying a little bit longer.
X- What? How much longer? We need you here.
W- One more night I guess.
X- Ok.
W- Tell Anya I hope she feels better.
X-Ok, will do. Bye.
W- Bye.
X- Oh, hey,Will...
W- Yeah?
X- I love you.
W- I love you too, Xander.
X- Bye.
W- Bye.
Willow wipes her tears. She dials another number.
W- Giles.
G- Oh, Willow, thank god.
W- What’s wrong?
G- Dawn appears to be missing.
W- What?!
G- She must have slipped out last night while I was sleeping. I’ve looked everywhere for her.
W- Did you try Spikes?
G- Spike? Why on earth?
W- That’s where Buffy- That’s who she trusted.
G- Right.
W- I’m sure she’s there or, you know, at the graves.
G- Yes. I’ll try both. Thank you. See you tonight then.
W- Wait. We’re staying a bit longer
G- Why?
W- Um, I don’t know.
G- I understand. See you soon.
W- Call me when you find her.
G- I will. Take care, Willow. And give my best to Tara.
W- I will. Bye.
G- Bye.
Willow hangs up and starts to cry over the desk.
At Cordy’s flat.
Cordy- (entering the apt) Ok, Fred, please don’t touch anything.
Tara- (sensing Dennis) You have a ghost.
Cordy- Yeah. How’d you know?
T- I just- He’s nice.
Cordy- He’s very friendly. He even tried to-
Fred- Casper!
Cordy- No. Dennis.
Fred- But I’m pretty sure I remember Casper being the Friendly Ghost.
Cordy- Yeah but you don’t see Tara here named Wendy, the Good Little Witch. Do you? Argh! Date Xander Harris for a minute and useless information slips in your brain.
Tara- Who’s Wendy?
Cordy- Casper’s friend. Nevermind.
Fred- Your highness-
Cordy- Cordy is fine, hon.
Fred- What will we wear tonight? I’m very excited.
Cordy- I bet.
Back in Sunnydale.
Giles- (entering Spike’s crypt) Spike, have you seen- (sees her) Dawn.
Dawn- Hey.
Giles- Hey? That is what you say after I have been worried sick all-
Spike- Lay off, mate. The girl is safe.
Giles- (is upset but doesn’t want to start an argument) You could have left me a note.
Dawn- I didn’t know where I was going... I just ended up here. (beat) We’re watching Passions. Scootch over, Spike. (he gets ready to move)
Giles- Uh, no. Thank you. I, uh- Will you be... (doesn’t know how to ask) Will you be going home after this? Tonight?
Dawn- I don’t know. I might ask Willow to, you know.
Giles- She and Tara are still in LA.
Dawn- Oh... When does my father get here?
Giles- I believe in two days.
Dawn- Do I have to go with him?
Giles- I believe so.
Dawn- I don’t want to go.
Giles- You can discuss that later. With him.
Dawn- He’s not my father.
Giles- Dawn-
Dawn- You were more Buffy’s father than he was.
Giles- No, I was her Watcher.
Dawn- And you- You’re the only father figure I have.
Giles- Yes, but-
Dawn- Can you adopt me?
Spike- What?!
Back in LA.
The girls are back in the hotel. Everyone is getting ready to go to Karitas. Willow and Tara are in their room.
Tara- And you haven’t seen Wesley all day?
Willow- No. I haven’t seen Angel either. Well, him being a vampire and all kinda makes sense. It’s so weird to be in a hotel with no guests. It feels spooky.
Tara- Cordy has a ghost in her apartment.
Willow- Can you not call her Cordy please. It’s making me wanna hurl.
Tara- What?
Willow- Well I just have a lot of issues with Cordelia, you know?
Tara- Yes, but- Willow, I don’t. Am I not supposed to like her just because you formed the “I Hate Cordelia Chase Club” in middle school?
Willow- She tortured me all my life. She made it a living hell.
Tara- She’s changed. I think. Since I don’t really know her from before. But those experiences made you a stronger person. All of your experiences have made you who you are. People like that, whether they know it or not, help build your character. You can either let them crush you or you overcome it. And if I’ve got her to thank for the wonderful girlfriend I have then- (a Willowkiss stops her babbling) And just look at how wonderful you turned out.
Willow- Are we still talking about Cordelia and me?
Tara- Yes.
Willow- I could say the same for you.
Tara- Yes, but see I’ve let it go. I’m not holding on to my past. I’m thinking about my future. With you.
Willow- (tearing up) It’s so hard to let go.
Tara- I know, baby. I know. It takes time.
At Karitas....Lorne is singing.
Lorne- Love, I get so lost sometimes...
Cordy- (to Tara) I cannot believe he dedicated this song to you! This is too funny.
Willow- (looking at her half empty cup, kinda tipsy) Are we really supposed to be drinking? We’re underage.
Tara- Oh loosen up, darling.
Cordy- (half hugs Tara) Have I told you how much I love this girl?! (giggles, but then off Willow’s look) Not like you, of course.
Fred- You know I remember a boy serenading me with this song. He was outside of my house with a radio over his head.
Cordy and Tara crack up. Willow feels bad for her.
Willow- That was a movie.
Fred- Oh.
Later.
Cordy- (chatting with Tara) And so they wanted me to mate with this hunk o-
Lorne- (stops by) How are you kittens doing? Enjoying your drinks?
Tara- Yes, thank you.
Lorne- My pleasure, precious. (Willow rolls her eyes, he turns to her) So will you be singing something tonight honey bunny?
Willow- Me? No. I don’t sing. At all. No way.
Cordy- Oh, come on. I did it.
Willow- No.
Tara- You took drama, Willow. I thought your stage fright was over.
Willow- You’re supposed to be supporting me not-
Something out of the corner of her eyes stops her. She sees Faith enter the bar. She’s got Wesley and Angel by her sides.
Willow- (shocked) Faith.
Cordy- Oh my god.
The three newcomers walk up to the table silently. It seems the whole bar has stopped talking, noticing a Slayer is in their midst.
Once they've approached no one says a word. Faith doesn't know where to look. Willow stands up and walks towards her, tears filling her eyes, hands clenched ready for war. Faith is ready for anything but not expecting what happens next.
Willow throws her arms around her and sobs uncontrollably. Faith does too.
Everyone just watches them.
**************************************
Everyone is back at the Hotel.
Angel and Faith in her room. There’s silence.
Angel- You ok?
Faith- (unpacking a bit) She still hates me. I could feel it... She’s different, Angel. There’s something. She’s...
Angel- She’s been through a lot, Faith.
Faith- I dont think it has to do with- I dont... It’s not about Buffy.
Angel- Well, Tara- You know.
Faith- (dismissing that explanation) I don’t know.
Angel- What?
Faith- (sighs) I wish I’d been there.
Angel- It wouldn’t have helped.
Faith looks at him like he’s insane. She’s about to say something else but stops.
Tara and Willow. Willow is staring out the window and Tara curls up behind her.
Tara- You ok?
Willow- No.
Tara- Wanna talk about it?
Willow- (quiet) I still hate her.
Tara- Willow.
Willow- (turns around into Tara’s embrace) I do. I can’t help it. (tearing up) Last time we saw her... She- she was Buffy. For a second I thought she was Buffy. And then it hit me... And in some insane way I know that Faith is probably hurting as much as I am.
Tara- You both loved her very much.
Willow- Yeah but see me and Buffy- We’re- were best friends. They- they were the Slayers. They had this bond. Something-
Tara- Magickal?
Willow- Right. (kisses her)
Tara- What you’re feeling is natural, Willow. All these emotions are unavoidable. (turns away and walks over to the bed) And here I go off sounding like big knowledge woman again. Sorry.
Willow- (sits by her) No. I understand. (hugs her) Thank you.
Tara- (nods and wipes a tear) I need to put some lotion over my hand.
Willow- I’ll do it.
Sunnydale...
Spike, Dawn and Giles at Giles flat. Looks like they all had a civilized dinner and are now in the after dinner chat mode.
Spike- (chuckling a bit) You cant be serious, Dawn. Giles is all old, and stuffy, and he’s British! You don’t want a British father. I had one. Trust me they are no fun.
Giles- (from the kitchen) I can hear you, Spike.
Dawn- (somber) I’m not looking for fun.
Spike- (caring) Look, going off with your pop for a while may not be so bad.
Dawn- You dont know. Giles, call the Council.
Giles- (knowing she’s getting serious) What for?
Dawn- If they can kick you out of the country in a heart beat then I’m sure they can find a way to make you my legal guardian.
Giles- Dawn.
Dawn- You dont want me?
Giles- It’s not that.
Dawn You dont consider me real, do you? I’m not Buffy. I’m not your Slayer. I’m nothing. I’m still just the key, right?
Giles- No!
Dawn- Can’t I make my energy dissapear? Can we open another portal-
Spike- (stans up) That’s enough! We’re still here and we- We love you, Dawn. You. Aw, bugger. (storms off) Thanks for dinner.
Later that night.
Tara is fixing a cup of tea for herself in the kitchen. Faith enters and coughs lightly to let her know she’s there.
Tara- Faith...
Faith- Tara. (she digs her hand deeper in her pockets) Well, um, now that we know we remember each others names- I- I don’t have a snappy repartee.
Tara- There’s no need for a smart reply with me. (softly grins)
Faith- (beat) How can you be like that?
Tara- Like what?
Faith- Good... You’re just good.
Tara- (chuckles) You don’t know anything about me.
Faith- I’m a Slayer. I sense things.
Tara- I’m a witch. What’s your point?
Faith- I don’t know. (is oddly happy to see Tara so retortive)
Tara- (finishes pouring her tea) But you’re right, I am good. (she smiles again) Tea?
Faith- No way. I mean, thanks but no... You- You’re good for, Red.
Tara- (sits down at the table) Really? How do you know that? (takes her antibiotic)
Faith- Because... She’s- You know her. You know what she is capable of, what’s inside her... You’re the ying to her yang, baby. (she tried to end on a light note)
Tara- (serious) How do you know about Willow?
Faith- So there is something, huh?
Tara- What?
Faith- It was just a hunch.
Tara- I see your Slayer senses are still- Five by five?
Faith- (grins) Yeah. (wonders how much Tara knows about her)
Tara- Are you coming back with us?
Faith- I don’t know. I don’t even know how they got me out. Or why. (doesn’t know why she’s telling her this but) I’m about to go patrolling. Just came down here for some water.
Tara- You know I’ve never staked a vamp?
Faith- Really? I could teach you. All you need is a stick and- Uh. I, uh... Shit. About that night-
Tara- Forget about it.
Faith- No, I had no right. You were a completely innocent stranger. I was horrible.
Tara- Trust me, that is the last thing I remember about that night. (she blushed) But thank you.
Faith- Yeah...
Suddenly the phone rings. They both look at each other.
Faith- Angel’s out with the boys and Cordy’s asleep.
Tara- Should I answer it?
Faith- I guess.
Tara- (grabs the kitchen phone) Um, Angel Inv- Dawn! No, it’s not too late... Yeah, everyone’s fine. How are you?... What? Um, yeah. Ok... We should really ask Willow about that... No, ok, alright Dawn he can stay... No... No. Because... You what? Oh my god... Tomorrow?! We’ll be there. I promise. Ok. I love you too. Goodnight.
Faith- She’s real?
Tara- Yeah.
Faith- What’d she say?
Tara- (sighs) Spike is staying at the house with her. She doesn’t want to stay at Giles’ anymore.
Faith- Neither would I.
Tara- (sits back down) Her dads coming tomorrow.
Faith- What? What for?
Tara- To take her away.
At Karitas, same time.
Gunn- What are we going to do about Fred?
Wesley- What do you mean?
Gunn- Well, shouldn’t we contact her family?
Angel- They’re dead. I checked. Father died three years ago and her mother last year.
Wesley- Any kin?
Angel- Not that I could find.
Gunn- That sucks.
Lorne- (walking up to them) You know Angelcakes I shouldn’t be telling you this but that little red riding hood of yours is in trouble. (all stand up) Down boys. I was speaking metaphorically. Geez, need some more cocktails to loosen you fellas up?
Angel- What are you talking about, Lorne?
Lorne- Simple baby. She tapped into the wrong mojo.
Wesley- The restoration spell?
Angel- How do you know about that?
Wesley- Giles told me.
Lorne- No, I’m talking about the kinda magick that turns your eyes black and give you enough power to hurt a *god*. Well you can throw in floating above the ground in there too.
Gunn- What?
Angel- No.
Lorne- Yes.
Gunn- That little thing can float?
Wesley- Apparently. She must be a level-
Angel- (quickly) Shut up.
Wesley- Angel, we need to help her.
Lorne- Oh her blindingly beautiful Boticelli has tried. But she’s different too.
Wesley- What do you mean?
Lorne- She has her own demons to conquer.
*******************
Willow- (wakes up, realizes Tara isn’t next to her) Tara. (looks around the dimly lit room) Tara?
********************
A sleepy Willow enters the kitchen. She sees Tara staring off into her cup.
Willow- Tara?
Tara- (snapped out of it) Hey. Hi. How are you?
Willow- Horrible. I woke up alone.
Tara- (grins) Never.
Willow- I know. Just being silly. (sits on her girlfriends lap and cuddles up to her) Am I hurting you?
Tara- Nope. You’re light as a feather.
Willow- Better to tickle you with... What are you doing here?
Tara- I couldn’t sleep.
Willow- You should have woken me up. I was having a weird dream anyway.
Tara- What were you dreaming of?
Willow- (sadly) Buffy... We were driving in her mother’s car and- uh... she was singing.
Tara- What was she singing?
Willow- I don’t know. I couldn’t understand what she was saying. It sounded like the phone ringing. Weird, huh?
Tara- Dawn called.
Willow- What? When?
Tara- A few minutes ago. Hank is coming to pick her up tomorrow. She wants us there.
Willow- (getting upset) No. Tara, he can’t take her from us.
Tara- Darling there is nothing we can do about it.
Willow- (distraught) No.
Faith enters. She didn’t notice Willow was there.
Faith- Hey, Tara- (sees Willow) Uh.
Willow- (stands up quickly and unconsciously grabs Tara’s hand for support) What?
Faith- Um, nothing. I was just going to give her this. (it’s a stake)
Willow- (clenches her fists again) What for?
Tara- (in pain) Willow, my hand.
Willow- (didn’t realize that it was the broken one) Oh my god! Tara, I’m sorry! I’m so sorry! Baby.
Tara- It’s ok. Don’t worry. It’s ok.
Willow- No. Nothing is ok.
Faith- (to Tara) You all right?
Willow- (to Faith) Shut up.
Tara- Hey! Willow, stop.
Faith- Look, I just- I’m out. (turns to leave)
Willow- Thicken! (Faith freezes)
Tara- Willow!
Faith- What the hell are you doing, Red?
Willow- I said shut up, Faith.
Faith- Let me go!
Willow- No.
Tara- Willow, what are you doing? Come back to me.
But Willow is far, far away.
Tara pleads with Willow as Faith is lifted off the ground.
Faith- What the hell are you doing, Willow?! Put me down!
Tara- (tearing up) Willow, please. Look at me.
Angel and the gang come in.
Lorne- (looks at Willow) Oh honey, no. Your aura’s all wrong.
Angel- (realizes the severity of the situation) Willow.
Gunn- (to Wesley) Slayers can fly?
Wesley- It’s Willow. She’s doing this.
Gunn- Damn, girl.
Wesley- (whispers) Quiet.
Tara is now sobbing. Willow is still holding Faith up in the air. She doesn’t seem fazed by the newcomers.
Willow- I wont let you hurt her again.
Angel- (inching closer to her) Willow. (he reaches out touch her) Hey, Willow.
Before he makes contact a flash of lighting bolts out of Willow and Angel is sent flying back towards the wall. Faith falls hard to the floor. Tara quickly reaches out to Willow and pulls her close. The redheads nose is bleeding, her tears spreading the blood down her pj’s.
Gunn- (doesn’t realize Willow is bleeding) Now that could solve California’s energy problems.
Wesley- (not meanly) Oh shut up, Gunn.
Wesley and Gunn help Faith as Lorne helps Angel up.
Lorne- You ok big boy?
Angel- Yeah.
Wesley- (to Faith) Are you hurt?
Faith- I think my elbow is broken.
Gunn- Your shoulder looks dislocated too.
Faith- How is she?
She sees Tara holding Willow and trying to stop her bleeding.
Cordelia- (entering in her bata de casa (don’t know how to say it in English *g*) What the hell is all that noise? Trying to sleep here. Oh my god. What happened?
Fred- (behind her) Y’all making breakfast?
************************
Wesley and Gunn take Faith to the hospital. Willow and Tara are in the office. Lorne and Angel walk in.
Angel- Um, Tara? Can I speak with you a second?
Tara- (looks to make sure Willow is ok) Sure.
They exit.
Willow- (not looking at Lorne) Stop staring at her butt.
Lorne- Shocked I tell you! I was doing no such thing. Please don’t turn me into a green, horny demon. I mean a horny, green demon. I mean- Why don’t you smile?
Willow- Maybe it’s because a demon keeps flirting with my girlfriend.
Lorne- Please, honey. We both play for the same team. (Willow grins a bit) But that’s not it.
Willow- What is it then?
Lorne- Your best friend just sacrificed herself for the world and your girlfriend was almost taken from you.
Willow- Duh.
Lorne- But see, she’s really your problem.
Willow- Who?
Lorne- Your blonde goddess.
Willow- Tara?
Lorne- Yeah. She’s your energizer bunny. Catch my drift?
Willow- No.
Lorne- Something about her keeps you going and going.
Willow- So?
Lorne- Maybe you should stop and think about what exactly it is you’re doing, going, and is it worth it.
Willow- Is this how you predict peoples future? No wonder you work at a kareoki bar.
Lorne- Hey, feisty, I own the joint! And this is exactly what I am talking about, Scarlet.
Willow- What?
Lorne- Your anger. You want to protect everyone and feel like you’ve let them down when it’s beyond your control.
Willow- I did let them down.
Lorne- No. You didn’t.
Willow- Like you know.
Lorne- I do.
Next morning. Willow and Tara are gathering their stuff in the lobby.
Willow- Are you sure you packed everything?
Tara- Yes.
Willow- Ok.
Tara- Cordy!
Coredlia- (running towards them) No! You can’t leave yet! My cookies aren’t ready!
Willow- But we have to be in Sunnydale by noon.
Cordy- Don’t make any pee stops. Please! I want to send them to her. 15 minutes.
Tara- Ok.
Willow- (not sure) Tara.
Tara- We’ll go staright to the house.
Willow- (sits on the couch we first saw her in) Fine.
Faith- (entering with Gunn)- Mad cute that nurse. She was totally hitting on you.
Gunn- Nah.
Faith- (to Tara) Hey. (looks at Willow) Will.
Tara- How’s your arm?
Faith- (she’s wearing a sling) Not broken, just bruised. Gunn here popped the shoulder right back in.
Cordy- (suddenly remembers) The cookies! (runs off)
Gunn- She bakin’? (runs after her)
Tara- (to Faith) It hurts doesn't it?
Faith- Other parts of me hurt.
Willow- I’m sorry about that whole thing, Faith.
Faith- Not a problem. You, uh- Misunderstanding. So, umm, you ladies off to Sunnydale?
Tara- Yes. That thing with Dawn.
Faith- Man that’s crazy. Girl’s been through enough.
Willow sits back a bit peeved about the whole situation and conversation.
Tara- It’s been quite a year.
Faith- Yeah... I’m going to go to the bathroom a second. Uh, I’ll be right back.
Faith leaves.
Willow- Why would we care where she goes?
Tara- It’s her way of saying to not leave without saying goodbye.
Willow- Why would she care about that?
Tara- Willow.
Willow- No. I mean it. I’m sick and tired of all of this, Tara. (tearing) I want to go to sleep and wake up and have- That is so childish of me. I need to deal with this.
Tara- Right.
Willow- (crying) I don’t know how. Buffy’s gone, Dawn’s going to be taken away and you-
Tara- Me what?
Willow- (quietly) You’re changing.
Tara- What?! How?
Willow- I don’t mean it like that, I mean...
Tara- What?
Willow- You’re becoming this extraordinary person. More than you were before. And I’m- I’m headed in the other direction. You’re so in control and I’m- I’m falling apart.
Tara- No. That is so not true. Willow, you brought me back, baby. You weakened Glory.
Willow- (not proud) I used the Darkest Magick book.
Tara- (realizes what she means) No.
Willow- Yes. Why do you think this is happening to me?
Tara- (hugs her close) We’ll deal with it.
Willow- There is no we. Look at what I did to Faith. I was so far gone, Tara. I’m scared.
Tara- (sighs) We’re going to go back to Sunnydale and see Dawn off. Then- I think you should come back here.
Willow- (looks up at her) What? Why?
Tara- They can help you.
Willow- (scoffs) Wesley?
Tara- Angel, and Faith.
Willow- No.
Tara- Willow.
Willow- Come back with me.
Tara- I-I can’t.
Willow- Why not?
Tara smiles and kisses her. Wesley enters the lobby.
Wesley- Cordy? (embarrassed) Oh, sorry. (bit peeved) Must you two be all over each other all the time?
Faith- (walking towards them) Chill out, Wesley. Whens the last time you were in love?
Wesley- Quite recently thank you. She broke up with me.
Willow and Tara laugh. Willow kisses Tara’s cheek.
Cordy runs in with a basket. Gunn is eating one of the cookies.
Cordy- Ok! Here ya go.
Faith- (to Gunn) Are they edible?
Gunn- They were frozen.
Faith- Figures.
Cordy- Hey! It was very hard to cut them.
Angel and Fred walk in.
Angel- What’s going on?
Fred- (childish glee) Cookies!
Cordy- Not for you.
Willow- (grinning) One wont hurt, Cordelia.
Cordelia- But I figured Xander will eat ten, then Giles would have about two. You two would have about two and then there’s only four left for Dawn.
Tara- I’ll give her one of mine.
Willow- (grabbing all the bags) We should go.
Everyone hugs goodbye.
Wesley- Cheers to Giles.
Cordy- Come back and visit! Hope they like the cookies.
Gunn- Nice to meet you.
Angel- You’re always welcome here.
Only Faith is left.
Faith- I’ll walk them out.
Once outside they load up the car.
Faith- (to Tara) I, uh, I still have your stake. It’s upstairs and I- I don’t want Red turning me into a rat or something. So...
Tara- (grins) You know, the Magic Shop has a training area. If you’re ever in Sunnydale--
Faith- Magic Shop?
Tara- Right. You dont know about that.
Willow- (softly) Tara? We need to go.
Faith- (itching to leave too) Well, see ya then.
Tara- Bye, Faith. Take care. (unexpectedly hugs her)
Faith turns around to walk away.
Willow- Faith?
Faith- Yeah?
Willow- I’m really sorry.
Faith- Me too. For everything.
Willow- I’ll see you soon, ok?
Faith- I guess.
Faith turns away again.
Willow- Oh, and Faith?
Faith- (trying to hold back her tears) Yeah, Red?
Willow- She loved you too.
Faith nods uncertainly and walks into the hotel. The witches head back to Sunnydale.
At the Summers house. Dawn opens the door.
Dawn- Dad.
Hank- Hello, Dawn. (they hug awkwardly. Wendy enters behind him) This is Wendy. (he notices Giles is standing aside) Are you the social worker?
Giles- No, I’m- A friend of the family. Rupert Giles. (shakes his hand)
Dawn- He’s been taking care of me since...
Hank- (nods) Thank you very much for helping Dawnie. I appreciate that.
Giles- Sure.
Dawn sees Tara and Willow pull up.
Dawn- They’re here! (she runs out to greet them. Giles follows)
Uncomfortable, Wendy and Hank stand about in the foyer. Wendy looks over to the family room and sees Spike sitting somberly on the couch. The room is a bit dark, has the blinds drawn due to the fact it’s daytime and there’s a vampire in the house (they dont know this of course). She grabs Hanks hand.
Hank – (follows her gaze) Hi. Who are you?
Spike- I’m Spike.
Wendy- Spike? What kind of a name is that?
Giles enters carrying the overnight bags. Dawn is being hugged on both sides by the witches. Willow’s holding Cordy’s basket.
Willow- (grinning as she finished a story) And so it was all her fault.
Dawn- Leave it to Cordelia to make others wait. Even if she isn’t even in the same town.
Hank- (to Willow) Hello.
Willow- Hi. I’m-
Hank- Willow Rosenberg. I remember your face. (hold his hand out to her, she shakes it a bit confused he knows who she is.) I like your hair shorter. (it was a bit painful for him to speak.) Buffy... She, uh, she showed me pictures of all of you last time I... Saw her.
Willow- (tearing up, with a sad smile) I’m sorry.
Dawn- (wanting to change the subject) This is Tara. She and Willow-
Tara- Baby-sit. (nods hello to Hank) Sir.
Hank sadly smiles at her. Willow’s glaring a bit not understanding why Tara would do that.
Wendy- Could I trouble someone for some water?
Tara- I-I’ll get it.
Willow- I’ll go leave the cookies in the kitchen.
Spike- (Perks up from the couch) Cookies? (jumps and follows them to the kitchen)
Giles motions for them all to go sit in the family room.
In the kitchen.
Willow- Ok. What was that about?
Tara- He doesn’t need to know about us.
Willow- Why?
Tara- Willow, if we want Dawn to even be able to at least visit, he can’t know.
Spike- (agreed as he ate one of the cookies as he sat on the kitchen counter) Wiccies got a point. He could be a total ‘phobe. Never let you near the girl again.
Willow- What?! No.
Tara- You don’t know him, Willow.
Willow- Yeah, but... (thinks back to Tara’s father and where she’s coming from) Right.
Awkward silence.
Spike- Are we actually letting the nibblet go with him?
Willow- We?
Tara- There’s nothing we can do, Spike. We’re not kin. He’s her father.
Spike- Dejavu much, loverwicca?
Willow- Shut up!
Spike- Hey, if it wasn’t for me she’d be at home milking cows right now.
Tara- We don’t have cows.
Dawn- (entering) What’s going on?
Willow- Spike is being his annoying self as usual. How are you? (hold up the basket to her) Cookie?
Dawn- No thanks. (sit’s next to Spike) The so called adults are having a conversation in the living room. If they are going to pretend I’m not in the room I may as well not be in it.
Tara- Oh, Dawnie.
Dawn- Wendy’s pregnant.
Willow- Who’s Wendy?
Dawn- Dad’s new wife.
Tara- Wife? I thought she was the social worker.
Dawn- No, they were on their honeymoon. Too busy boinking to return calls. (no one says a word) They’re talking about the house and stuff.
Tara- What happened with the Council?
Dawn- They’re pulling a Hank Summers. They’re not returning Giles’ calls. I don’t think Giles wants me anyhow.
Willow- Dawn! That is not true! We all want you to stay. I mean, I’d even apply to be your legal guardian if I could.
Dawn- Why can’t you?
Willow- (looks to Tara, back at Dawn) I don’t know if I can.
Dawn- Cause you’re gay? If that’s what’s scaring you Spike can pretend to be your boyfriend.
Spike- I did think you looked kinda sexy in that outfit once.
Tara- Hey!
Willow- Spike!
Tara- What outfit?
Willow- Doesn’t matter... Dawn, we’ll figure out a way. A legal way. I promise.
Wendy- (entering) Water?
Tara- Oh! I’m so s-s-sorry about that.
Willow- Here, let me get it.
Wendy- Are you bags all packed, Dawnie?
Dawn- It’s Dawn, and yes. Well, no. I still have some stuff to- Spike? Come with me?
Spike- Sure thing.
They exit. Willow hands Wendy a glass of water.
Willow- Here you go.
Wendy- Thank you. (drinks it all in one sip) This is so odd.
Willow- Yeah.
Wendy- the way Hank spoke of Buffy- I would have never thought she’d kill herself.
Willow- She did not kill herself!
Wendy- Well, then why was she up on that tower?
Willow- you don’t know anything about Buffy Summers.
Wendy- No. I guess I don’t. (walks out of the kitchen)
Tara- Willow...
Willow- (runs into her arms, crying) She did not kill herself.
Tara- I know, baby. We all know.
Upstairs. Hallway is littered with boxes. Dawn and giles had been packing up things. they enter Buffy’s room. also full of boxes.
Spike- What do you need help with, little bit?
Dawn- This.
She walks over to a chest. Takes out some weapons and spreads them on the bed.
Dawn- Buffy would have wanted you to have them. You know, to protect yourself.
Spike- (amazed as he handles the weapons) No. These were her pampered darlings. I can’t do that.
Dawn- Well, it’s either you or the next Slayer who will be using them. I’d rather it be you.
(Spike nods appreciatively) You’ll protect them, right? Willow and Tara and Xander? Anya? (tearing up) Giles?
Spike- I’ll do my best, love.
In the kitchen.
Tara- (stroking her hair) Are you ok?
Willow- Just keep holding me and I will be.
Tara- Always, baby... Doesn’t Hank live in LA?
Willow- I don’t know. I think so. Why?
Tara- Well, if you- you know. You’ll be near her. You can check up on her.
Willow- I still don’t understand why you won’t go back with me.
Tara- If I’m there- You, you need to concentrate. I can't help you with that. I’ll just be in your way.
Willow- No. But I can’t do it without you. You help me concentrate. You know together my magick is stronger.
Tara- It’s not about magick, Willow. It’s about you. You didn’t need me there when you- (sighs) This is something you need to do for yourself.
Willow- Tara, I can’t be away from you. Ever. Again. I won’t go without you.
Dawn- (entering with Spike) Go where?
Willow- (bouncing off Tara) Jesus, Dawn! You scared me!
Dawn- Sorry. Where you going?
Willow- LA.
Dawn- What? Why?
Willow- Um, Angel and them... And, you.
Dawn- (eyes wide) You mean it?! You’re going to be in LA?!
Willow- Yeah. (Dawn runs and hugs her)
Dawn- (to Tara, hopeful) You too?
Tara- (looks to Willow and back to Dawn, nods) Yes.
Dawn- For how long?
Willow- A couple of weeks, I guess.
Spike- (eating another cookie) Am I not invited?
Giles- (enters) Dawn... They’re about ready to leave.
Dawn- No. (starts to tear up,) No! I don’t wanna go. (runs to Tara, hugging her) Tara...
Hank- (enters) Dawn, We- uh... We should go. We’ll be waiting outside. Thank you all for your generous support. I’ll- Bye. (exits)
Dawn- (lets go of Tara, to Giles) I don’t want to go, Giles.
He’s speechless and hurt. It’s painfully obvious.
Willow- Dawn, listen to me. Pretend you’re going on a vacation. We’ll see you real soon. I promise.
Dawn- (nods and hugs her) I love you, Willow.
Willow- I love you too.
Dawn- (turns back to Tara. hugs her again) Tara, I never told you-
Tara- You don’t have to say anything, Dawnie.
Dawn- But-
Tara- Dawn, knowing what I went through... I’d do it again. To protect you. Always.
Dawn- (crying) Thank you.
Dawn sniffles and wipes her tears as she turns to Spike. They have no words for each other. Willow’s crying now and holding Tara close. Spike just opens his arms wide. Dawn embraces him.
Dawn- Thank you for everything, Spike.
Spike- Not a problem. Be good.
Dawn- (chuckles) You too.
She turns to Giles and they walk out together. He’s got his arm over her shoulder and she’s hugging his waist.
Willow- (crying) Dawn...
The three just stay in the kitchen. Silent.
The end... for now. *weevil laughter*