Buffy: Innocent Blood Chapter 3

8/6/2019 Buffy: Innocent Blood Chapter 3

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Chapter Three

June 9th, 1998

Los Angeles

I shouldnt be doing this, Buffy told herself as she sat on the deck staring out at thewaves. In the darkness the moon glittered off the water, mesmerizing her as she gazed out overthe beach. Occasionally people would straggle by in ones or twos, embracing one another tightly.Buffy would watch them as they ambled along the beach until they disappeared around the curveof the shoreline; then she would resume her study of the water.

A chime inside sounded, and she glanced behind her. Two a.m. She shook her head.Why am I doing this? she asked no one, frowning as she listened to the waves crash on thebeach. I should be in bed, snug as a bug, sleeping. She sighed as the cool ocean breeze blewover her, pushing stray strands of hair away from her face. Yeah, like that would happen. Id

just lay there and think about Angel and cry. I cant believe Willow got that spell to work.I wonder if she has any idea how hard that made it for me? Buffy folded her arms around

her knees as she felt the tears start to come. If he had stayed evil, I could have run him through--no problem. I could have killed him and never looked back. But in that second, in that momentthat he was himself again... my Angel... A tear slid down Buffys cheek.I know I shouldnt, but Iloved you, I still love you. Ill always love you. Ill never forget you, Angel, I swear. Never.

She wiped her tear away, but more followed.If I could only talk to you. Just hold you onemore time...I guess I could forgive you for what you did. Maybe that wasnt you. It was that thinginside you, that damn demon. Not you. Not my Angel. She sighed. You I could forgive.

Buffy tried to stop crying, but it took her several minutes to regain control of herself. Shetook a deep breath and asked, Where the hell are they, anyway?

She had to give Pike credit; hed refused to get in an argument with her. Buffy felt sickand afraid at the thought of Pike and two women out hunting vampires every night. Doing her job. Risking their lives, putting themselves in danger, and for what? So you can get yourgoddamned heart broken and watch your best friends get beaten to a pulp? Is that what being aSlayer is all about? Because if it is, I dont want it. I dont want any of it.

So why do they do it? Pike of all people knows how dangerous this all is. Its not some game, some make-believe fairy tale stuff. These guys are real and they kill and why wouldanyone want to put themselves in that kind of danger if they didnt have to? I had to, and Ididnt always want to, Buffy said aloud.

Shelley and Rachel had been quiet after she had discovered Pike by the van. Buffy hadtried briefly to talk them out of it, telling them it was too dangerous. But Pike had simply said,Been doing this almost as long as you have, Buff. Well be careful. For a long moment Shelley

had held her eyes, her expression unreadable, before she had boarded the van. Rachel had passedby her, and stopped; the girl had come back and said, It might be a drag, but its a worse draglettin em run free. Then she had hopped on the van and they had taken off. That had been fivehours ago.

I should just go to bed, Buffy said, shaking her head. Not get involved and just crashhere until I can find someplace else to stay and--

At that moment she heard the van pull into the driveway, slowing down and then comingto a halt. Buffy tried to ignore them, fixing her hazel eyes on the dark waves, but her hearing was

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exceptional, and she couldnt block them out. She heard three people, muted voices, and doorsopening and closing. Someone carried something, she could hear the contents of the bag clunkagainst each other; then they entered through the front door. Buffy stayed in her chair, smellingthe salty air and listening to the crashing of the surf.

I am not going in to see how they are. I dont care and I am not going in to see. I dontwant to know how they did tonight, I dont want to know if they are okay, I am not going in to seeif anyone is hurt. I dont care. Im not going in and thats it.

Yeah, right, Buffy said under her breath as she stood up and went inside to check up oneveryone.

*Buffy padded into the kitchen to find Pike pouring two glasses of water. A Diet Pepsi sat

on the counter next to the water glasses; Shelley and Rachel were nowhere to be seen. Buffystood by the back door with her arms folded, her eyes watching Pike as he put the water back inthe fridge.

He jolted when he turned around and saw her.Buff, can I getcha somethin?She shook her head. Im cool. How are you guys?Pike rubbed his shoulder. Were okay. Rachel got a little banged up.Is she okay? Buffy asked.Pike nodded, taking a drink from his glass. Yeah. Just a scratch. Lotta blood, though.

She was pissed because it trashed her shirt.Buffy felt a cold sensation forming in her stomach and wondered briefly if this was what

it felt like to be a mother.This is not a game, Buffy said.Pike turned to stare at her. You think I dont know that? He put his glass down. You

think we do this for fun?Buffy blinked. I dont know why you do it. I just know that you shouldnt.Pike shook his head. Somebodys got to, he said.Why you? Buffy asked. Pike, do you realize what you have here? I would kill for a set

up like this. Buffy put her hand on his arm. You have a babe who loves you, you have moremoney than even I could spend in the old days. She shook her head. Why risk all that?

He gave her a long look. I cant believe this is you askin me this. You know why, Buff.Its gotta be done.

Buffy nodded curtly. That doesnt explain why it has to be you, Pike, she said.Are you volunteering? Shelley asked from the entrance to the kitchen.Buffy turned to glare at her, and Shelley took a step back. Pike absorbed that; Shelley

didnt back down from anyone.

If this is some pathetic attempt to ego-trick me into signing up for some kinda ScoobyDoo act, forget it. Buffy turned to face Shelley. I can dig the holy mission thing-- check it out,Im mission central-- but I cant dig losing all my friends to the bad teeth brigade. You donthave a clue what Ive been through, so lay off the guilt.

Weve all lost people, Buff, Pike murmured.Buffy turned to face him and hardened her jaw. Did you ever have to kill the one person

you love more than anyone else youve ever known to save the world? Buffys eyes narrowed.Dont talk to me about sacrifice. Been there, done that, skipping the repeats.



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Shelley moved a step toward Buffy. You dont want to go there, she said quietly.Buffy turned to face Shelley, her eyebrows raised. Come again? I must have

misunderstood you. You wanna play can you top this? with me? Buffy raised her chin. Goahead. I guarantee I can take you.

Buffy, Pike said, dont do this.Rachel appeared in the doorway, holding an icepack to one elbow. She watched the two

women confront one another.Shelleys voice lowered to a whisper. All right. She put her hands on the counter and

closed her eyes a moment, gathering herself.Shell, we dont have to get into this, Pike said. Its late, were all tired, come on you

two, its--Ever see a vampire kill your mother? Shelley hissed, cutting him off. Or your father?

No? She turned to face Buffy. Ever had the pleasure of watching vampires sink their teeth intothe necks of your little sisters? And not be able to do a damned thing about it?

Buffy stared at her in horror.Have you seen that, Buffy? she asked, her voice soft. Never had the pleasure of

watching your nine year old sister torn open by some demon? Shelley shook her head. They

took everyone I ever knew and loved in the whole world, Buffy. And you know why?Buffy was barely able to shake her head no.Because some vampire king wanted to make me his wife. His goddamn mate. His

queen.Buffy shut her eyes.Shelley inched closer to her. But you wanna know the worst part? Worse than seeing

your parents die right in front of you?Buffy felt her eyes tearing up. Dimly she heard Pike whisper, Shelley, no...Shelley slammed her hands down on the counter, startling them all. The son of a bitch

turned them into vampires. He couldnt just kill them-- no, that would have been too easy. So heturns my parents and my sisters into goddamn vampires. Vampires! She flashed her teeth in anangry smile, a look of hate and rage. So then Pike and I had to go kill my family. Again. So Iget the bonus of not only seeing my parents die, but then watching them turn into these evilthings that are trying to kill me. And I have to kill them first before they can take lives. Take mylife.

Shelly shook her head; the tears finally welled up and slid down her cheeks. So donttell me you are the only one whos suffered because of them. They took my life and they shit allover it and hurt me in ways I didnt think it was possible to feel pain.

Tears slid down Buffys cheeks as well. Im sorry, she mumbled.Shelley shook her head. I dont care if you like me or not, Buffy. I dont care if you

respect me, or whatever. She took a ragged breath, trying to control her crying. But you damnwell better stop giving Pike grief. He saved my life and he saved my soul. I would have diedwithout him.

She paused to take another deep breath. So you can take your gift and piss it away if youwant to-- thats your choice-- but dont you dare question Pike, or tell him he doesnt know whathes doing. She exhaled. Theres a lot of people who owe their lives to him, and they donteven know it.

Shelley, Buffy started, I didnt--Shelley shook her head. Buffy, I dont want to hear it.Shelley, Buffy repeated firmly, and the taller woman stared at her.



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If I could give you what I have, if I could let you be the Slayer, trust me, I would.Buffy shook her head. I cant compare with what you went through. I havent exactly beenliving in candy-land the last two years myself. But you deserve major bonus points for even stillhaving a head to keep together.

Buffy touched her on the arm. But I cant make you the chosen one. The Slayer isnt ajob you can apply for. I wish it was. She looked up at Shelley, meeting her eyes. I wish I couldhand you the keys and the deed to the slayerhood. But I cant. Buffy shook her head. I cantgive you what I have.

Shelly closed her eyes. Yes you can.Buffy frowned. What?Yes you can, Buffy.Buffy continued to frown. How?Shelley put her hands on Buffys shoulders. You can be what you are supposed to be.

You can be the Slayer.Buffy backed away from her. You have no idea what youre asking, she managed to

get out.Trust me, Shelley said, if anyone besides you knows what it means to be the Slayer,

its me. I know what Im asking. I know it isnt easy. But youre the chosen one, Buffy. You arethe Slayer. Shelley took a step forward. Be what you know you can be.

Shelley, Rachel said from the archway to the living room. They all turned to face her.Let it go. Buffys got enough issues without trying to cope with yours. She turned her

attention to Buffy. Come on, lets head upstairs.Buffy nodded mutely and followed Rachel out of the kitchen. Shelley watched her leave

and turned to Pike. He shook his head at her, but gathered her up in his arms and held her for along while.

*Buffy stayed in her room late in an attempt to hide herself from Shelley. She slept only

intermittently, plagued by dreams of Angel and the deadly sword fight they had had, where hehad nearly killed her. She woke up twice in a sweat, both times panting as she became conscious,sitting up in the bed, breathing heavily and trying to calm down. Giles would point out that atleast Im getting some sleep, but thats a big zero in the comfort department.

Shed heard Rachel get up sometime around six to shower and get ready for school. Thehouse had stayed silent in the early morning, and Buffy had been tempted to go down and getsomething to eat. But then she thought about an early morning encounter with Shelley anddecided against it. Hunger she could deal with; Shelley, right now, she couldnt. Then at aboutnine oclock shed heard splashing in the pool; a brief glance out the window revealed Shelleyswimming laps, her thin body cutting through the water with impressive speed and force. Buffy

watched her for a moment, admiring Shelleys skill. Then she moved away from the window andtried to go back to sleep.

The van left a few minutes before eleven. Buffy showered and dressed and sat on her bed,letting her mind sift through what Shelleys story, and what had happened with Angel; how hermother had thrown her out of the house, and Snyder had expelled her from Sunnydale High.Cant really go back, Buffy mused.Pretty much stuck in forward at this point.



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Her stomach dragged her out of the room and downstairs. The kitchen was deserted, soshe made herself a sandwich and grabbed a peach and some water. She started to head backtoward the stairs when Pike appeared in the living room, looking like hed just woken up.

Sleeping in? Buffy asked him.He ran a hand through his messy hair. Tryin to. He looked at her.You think we could talk? he asked her.Buffy tilted her head. That didnt go real well last night, she said. Id rather not try for

another take on that scene.Pike nodded. Yeah, but Im not Shelley. He stuffed his hands in the pockets of his

shorts. I may love her, okay, but Im not her.So youre gonna play good cop? Buffy shot at him.Pike moved past her into the kitchen and opened a cabinet, pulling out some coffee. You

want? he asked, offering the can to her, but she nodded her head no. Pike shoveled somegrounds into a filter and poured some water into the coffee-maker. Once he was satisfied Mr.Coffee was doing his job, Pike turned to answer Buffy.

Im not gonna play any kind of cop, he said. But I am gonna live in a house whereeverybody gets along. I talked to Shelley already. Pike folded his arms. She got first crack

because we share a bed. And before you ask, yes, I sent her on some errands so the house wouldbe clear so you and I could chat. He raised his eyebrows. Whattaya say?

Buffy sighed and put her plate down on the table. I say youre trying really hard to playpeacemaker here. She pulled out a chair. So lets hear it.

Hear what? Pike said, checking on the progress of the coffee.Whatever it is you have to say to me.He tapped the coffeepot and turned to face Buffy. He swiveled a chair around and sat on

it backwards.The thing you have to understand about Shelley, he said, is that they really did screw

up her life. She was on the level about that. I mean I literally got to her just before they made hera vampire. She was this close, Pike said, holding his thumb and index finger together. Thatkinda thing can freak you out.

Buffy nodded silently.See now, most people, they block that. They tell themselves it was a gang, or a druggie,

or whatever. They rationalize. You know that, Buff. Im sure youve seen it.Yah, she agreed.But Shelley... Pike sighed. Shelley just sorta got angry. And mean, for a while. And

she came to me and wanted me to teach her how to kill vampires like me and... he trailed off.Go on, Buffy said.Pike was about to begin talking again when the coffee started dribbling into the pot.

Hold on, he said, getting up and fetching a mug. He dumped a liberal amount of sugar in thecup and sloshed some steaming coffee in; he put the carafe back on the heater and sat down.

Okay. You remember what happened at the dance, right? The Hemery dance?

How could I forget? Buffy replied. I slew Lothos.Right. Remember Andy?Buffy blinked. Andy?Pike nodded.My ex-boyfriend Jeffreys buddy Andy?Pike nodded again.Yeah, Buffy said. Nice guy. A little slow. Always nice to me. What about him?



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Well, Buff... Pike told her. He kinda took what happened at the dance real seriously.Seeing people with wrinkly faces explode into dust kinda captured his imagination.

Buffy stared blankly at Pike. This is Andy Nelson were talking about, right? Basketballteam, copied his homework from some nerdy guy named Mike, short dark hair...

Yep, Pike confirmed.Hmm, Buffy frowned slightly, I didnt know he had an imagination to capture.Pike tilted his head, scratching one ear. You coulda colored me surprised when he

showed up at my apartment a week after you left. He was raving about vampires and how youkicked their ass and how he understood it all now, and how he wanted to be like you.

Like me? Buffy asked.Pike pointed at her. You gave him a serious jones for vampire slayage. He wanted to

play Van Helsing really bad.Buffy closed her eyes, thinking of Owen, whom she had dated once, and to whom the

same thing had happened. What is it with these guys? Buy a Playstation. Theyre safer.So he shows up at my door with all this, You knew Buffy and you know what she did

and you helped her kill vampires blah blah blah. And I was like, Yeah, I know what she haddago through, sure, go home kid.

Did it work?Pike gave her a long look. Whadda you think?Buffy took a bite from her sandwich. I think Andy became a major pest to you.Bingo, Pike said, sipping on his coffee. He blew on it, causing tendrils of steam to rise

up.Buffy shook her head. Andy? Really?Really, Pike told her. So hes comin around every day, sayin, Come on, teach me

what Buffy knew, and I hadda tell him, Dude, you have me seriously confused with someoneelse. Do I look like a sensei to you? But hes one of these committed wont take no types.Pike tried to sip on the coffee, but it was too hot, so he settled for blowing on it some more.

Anyway, he keeps comin around, keeps naggin me, so I told him Id do him one favor,and then he was on his own.

Buffy looked interested. And that was?Pike looked away, out the window. I took him to Merricks.Pike! Buffy said. How could you?Pike threw his arms open. I hadda do something to get him off my back. He was callin,

comin over every day. I was just tryin to get on with my life, like you were, you know? And hewouldnt take the hint. So I figured Id take him over to Merricks, let him look at some mustyold books, you know... Pike tried the coffee; it had cooled enough to slurp a little off the top. Ifigured either that would get it out of his system once and for all, or reading about these otherSlayers would scare some sense into him. You know, wake him up to how grossly scary all ofthis was?

Buffy nodded. And?

And, it didnt work.Didnt work how? Buffy asked.It sorta just... backfired.Buffy furrowed her brows. Explain.Pike tilted his head to one side, looking out the window again. Istarted reading all of

those books. Okay, okay, I admit at first it was just kinda morbid curiosity, you know, lookin atforbidden stuff? But when I started readin all of these diaries and codexes and all that...

Lemme guess, Buffy interrupted. You got the Slayer jones too.



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Pike nodded. Thats the short version, but itll do. He sipped on his coffee. I figuredAndy could kinda do what you did, and I could sorta do what Merrick did-- you know, beknowledge guy and read stuff. That way I could do my part and not put my ass on the line everynight.

Buffy tore off a piece of the bread on the top of her sandwich. Thats not a bad plan.Pike frowned. Yeah, well, thats what I thought, yknow? So we boxed up all of his stuff

and took it over to my place. Pike took another sip. You know Merrick owned thatwarehouse?

Buffy nodded no as she tore off another little bit of her sandwich. Nope. We nevertalked real estate much.

Pike shrugged. Anyway, I started readin all this stuff. I kinda got to know my wayaround this whole vampire thing. I knew what to look for, what kinda patterns their behavior has,all this Watcher stuff. Pike glanced at her. I couldnt get enough of the stuff. I was just readinevery day, every night. Andy, he started reading some of the notes Merrick left about trainingyou.

Buffy spoke, Did Merrick have a handbook?A what?

You know, a Slayer Handbook. Handbook for Slayers. With the rules and all printed onthe inside.

Pike stared at her.Skip it, Buffy said.Pike told her, You must have one seriously dull Watcher, he said.Buffy raised an eyebrow. Stuffy, maybe. Not dull. Buffy frowned and added, Well,

maybe a little dull.Anyway, Pike said, continuing, Andy started getting really buff, learning all this

martial arts crap. And I just kept on reading, and studying. And learning. Pretty soon I was likethis major vampire expert. Pike sighed. We had time on our side. You did a nasty ass job onLothos and his band. They didnt show their pasty faces for months later.

Buffy took a bite out of her sandwich. And when they did? she asked, chewing.Andy kicked their ass. It was really somethin. First he took em out one at a time, and

then in twos and threes. He started gettin really good. And the vamps, they were like clueless, because they kept lookin for you. They saw two guys out and they thought free meal. Nobabes. No Slayer. No danger. Pike picked up his coffee mug. Then they attacked us, and thenthere was dust. End of story. Andy was like a major scourge.

Was? Buffy asked pointedly.We did okay for a while-- six months maybe. Maybe a little longer. But then we started

noticin that there was a lotta vampire type activity-- they were roaming in bigger packs, killingmore often. You know, braver, bolder, less careful and more strutting.

Buffy nodded. Vampire king came to town.Pike sipped his coffee. You called it.

Believe me, Ive seen the pattern. Its not pretty.No, it aint. Pike set the mug down. So here me and Andy start seeing vamps in

groups so big that we have to start skippin em-- maybe you can take seven or eight, but we sureas hell couldnt.

Buffy shook her head. I usually limit myself to five at a time. She smiled. Any moreand youre asking for trouble.

Pike grinned back. I started looking up the style of killing in the Watcher journals, and Icame across this guy named Ernst Eckhardt. He was some Watcher in Russia who moved to



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Germany to escape communism. Loved the Nazis. Pike shook his head. Takes all types, Iguess.

Buffy nodded. Bloodsucking fiends of a whole different sort.Pike continued, This guy had written something about a vampire king called Herzog,

some German bad-ass vampire who pulled the same kinda crap that was goin on here. SinceEckhardt never saw Herzog say hello to a stake, I guessed he was still alive, and come to settle inour beautiful city of angels.

And this newfound Watcher hunch was correct? Buffy queried.Very much so, thank you. We saw the guy once, around Christmas. He had white hair

and one eye was all white. Ugly son of a bitch. Big, though. Pike said, I started studyin himand I bumped into something that he did, a pattern he always followed. Made him predictable.

Which was?Pike smiled. He had a soft spot for the babes. He liked pretty women. He always took

one as a bride, or a queen, or whatever the hell vamp kings call their women. And we could tellby the type of attacks that that was his goal. Daddy wanted a little mommy vampire to not growold with.

And thats how you caught him? Buffy asked.

Mmm, sorta, Pike answered.Buffy gazed at him. Spill, come on. Dont go all secret squirrel on me now.Pike scratched his head. This is where it sorta gets tricky, he told Buffy. We know he

had his eyes on a coupla different girls. We knew the age and the type he likes, so we figuredwe--

Shelley, Buffy blurted. Oh my God, he went for Shelley, didnt he?Pike nodded.He killed her family? A vampire king? Hogshead?Herzog, Pike supplied. No, he had his boys do it. He sent the dirty dozen over to kick

some ass and take little Shelley home to him. Andy and I crashed their party and did some majorslaying action. Piles of dust all over the house. Pike shook his head at the memory. A realstain.

So her family...Pike winced. Heres where bein novices really hurt me and Andy. Yeah, we knew how

to kill the bastards, but we didnt know some of the finer points. We buried Shelleys parents andher sisters, figurin they were dead. We figured they just killed them. We werent hip to thatwhole vampire revenge thing. He closed his eyes. Shelley totally lost it when they attacked ustwo days later. She just kinda curled up in a little ball and wigged, completely. Pike frowned,sadness covering his face. We had to kill them. No choice.

Thats an ugly scene, Buffy told him.Way ugly, Pike agreed. I wanted to send her to live with her aunt in Ohio, but Shelley

wouldnt budge. Andy said we needed to give her some time. Pikes voice got thick withemotion. Three days later they ambushed Andy and killed him. Cut him apart. Just left his

ripped up body in the street where we could see it. He covered his face in his hands.You certainly havent had a jamboree here, have you?Not really, Pike admitted. Me, I was head for the hills time. No Slayer, no Andy,

nada. Forget it. Undead one, the living zero. Game over, man.Buffy took another bite of her sandwich. So what changed your mind?Shelley, Pike said. She spent her days reading my books-- well, theyre really

Merricks, I guess -- but shes like this amazingly fast reader. Anyway, she comes to me as Imstartin to pack my stuff, and she says, I dont wanna leave, I wanna be the Slayer.



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Buffy stared at Pike. I have no job security, she deadpanned.I told her there werent any openings, you know, kinda showed her the ropes and said,

This is a shitty life. Dont take it.Thanks for that stellar description of my career, Buffy said.With you its different, he said. Youre the real deal. With great responsibility comes

great power, Buff. You have the goods to put your money where your mouth is. But anybodynormal tryin to do your job is basically wearing a sign saying, Will work to be food. Pleaserip my neck open and drink my blood.

Buffy nodded in agreement. True.But, well, Pike sipped some coffee. Hell, you seen Shelley. No is not on her top ten

list of Answers I like. So she started workin on me, tellin me she could do it, tellin me shedbe dedicated, committed, yadda yadda.

And you bought it.Pike smiled. I always was a sucker for a pretty face.Buffy returned his smile. That you were.So, I started training Shelley like she was gonna be your understudy, Pike said. She

was always in good shape, but when we started, she was not ready for all the workout stuff. But

she stayed with it, and she got fast, and she got quick. Pike met Buffys eyes. You should seeher in action, Buff. She reminds me of you. Shes fast, shes deadly-- no hesitation.

Is that how you think of me? Buffy asked of him, brushing her bangs away from herface.

Lets keep it in focus, Buff. I didnt know you well outside of your Chosen One job.Most of the time we spent together was when you were fifteen, learning to be a Slayer, andtraining like crazy. You were pretty intense then.

That was me, Buffy said quietly. Intensity girl.Like I said, Shelley reminds me of you. In a good way. But shes not what you are.Buffy raised an eyebrow. And that kills her, doesnt it?Pike leaned his chair back on two legs. I think shed say it doesnt, but I think it does.

He sipped some coffee. She wants so badly to be what you are, and I guess somewhere it pissesher off that you just wanna give it up. He chuckled.

Why the laughter? Buffy asked him.Irony, Buff. You want what she could have-- a normal life-- and she wants what you

have-- the power to kick some major undead ass. He chuckled again. They wouldnt call it lifeif you could get everything you want, huh?

Thats for sure, Buffy agreed, polishing off her sandwich. So whered you guys get allthe money? Shelley rich or something?

Pike sighed. Shelleys folks werent bad off, and you shoulda seen the insurance policiesthey had. He shook his head. Like they knew they were gonna die. Mountains of money, Buff.I couldnt spend it all if I tried.

And you guys, what? Hang around all day and wait for it to get dark so you can kill

vampires?Pike looked out the window. Essentially.That is so sad, Buffy told him. Pikes head snapped around to look at her.I mean, you guys had a second chance just handed to you on this major silver platter,

and youre tossing it away on some revenge kick. Buffy crossed her arms. Actually, Shelleybought the ticket on the vengeance express. You just ride along for free and admire the view.

Pike frowned. Its gotta be done, Buff. He put the coffee down. I dont have to giveyou the rules to this game. You know how its played.



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Rachel met her eyes. Yeah.Shelley looked away. So, find anything good today?Rachel continued looking at Shelley for a moment, smiling inside.It kills you to say that

you care about me, doesnt it? You can feel it, you can think it, you can even show it, but Godforbid you say, Rachel, I care about you. Its a good thing I know you do.

Yeah, Rachel exhaled at last. You were right last night.Shelley accelerated as the line of cars in front of her started to move. I was afraid of

that.Rachel snorted. When the hell are you ever wrong? she asked. You know every

goddamn thing about vampires.Shelley replied, Thats because I dont skip the reading like you do.I do the reading! Rachel said. My middle name aint Evelyn Woods, like yours is, but

I do the reading. She pouted. Sometimes.Pike gives us this stuff for a reason, Rachel. The more we know, the better prepared we

are.I knew you were gonna rub that in, Rachel said. I thought an elbow to the teeth was a

good idea! she added.

Normally it is, Shelley said as she gunned it to beat the light. But not against avampire.

Rachel frowned. I know. Son of a bitch, that hurt. She looked at her elbow; a band aidcovered the two neat little holes shed gotten in return for her efforts. In her defense, the vampirehad been dazed and Rachel had been able to stake him. But her elbow had smarted the wholeday. Hope it doesnt leave a scar.

Shelley steered onto the freeway and merged into the heavy traffic. So, what exactly didyou find?

You know how you said they seemed to be attacking more on the north side of town?Shelley nodded, changing lanes.You were right. The three we axed last night were not the only members of the fang club

out for a meal. Rachel flipped open her laptop, which came to life at once. At least two morewere active in the Hills last night. They got a total of four coming out of some late night clubs.From what the reports say, one would lure the victim out and the other would feed, then theywould switch places. Rachel tapped a few keys as the screen came up. Bastards.

Theyre starting to organize. Shelley said. Got the names of the dead people?Rachel nodded. Yep. Ill monitor for the funeral announcements.Shelley spoke, The last thing we need is for someone to start building an army. We

dont want that.Because we know what that means, Rachel said.Shelley gripped the wheel a little tighter as she said, Another king is in town if thats the

case.Rachel tapped a few more buttons. And seeing as how the last one royally fucked up

both our lives--Rachel! Shelley scolded her. No F word, you know that.Rachel took off her sunglasses. Jesus, Shelley, bad enough I cant do it. I cant say it

either?Shelley continued watching the road. I didnt say you couldnt do it.Rachels mouth opened. You what?I never said sex was off-limits.Rachel gaped at her. In English? It sounded like you said sex was okay.



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It is, Shelley said. Id want you to be careful, but I never said I didnt want you doingit.

Rachel shook her head. I cant drink, but I can sleep with a guy?Shelley glanced at her and said, Rachel, I cant ask you to not to do something that I do

all the time. Thats hypocritical. She looked back at the road. I would suggest you find a saferegular partner, for your own sake. And be careful. And--

Gee mom, Rachel said. Can I bring him home?Shelley frowned at her. Im serious, Rachel. Vampires arent the only thing that can kill

you.Listen to public service announcement Shelley, Rachel sneered.I mean what I say, Rachel. Shelley changed lanes. And if bringing him home will

keep you safe, fine, bring him home. If he still wants to sleep with you after you after seeingyour room...

Rachel rolled her eyes. I bet that no bed thing would be kinda hard to explain, sheadmitted.

Once in a while its fun, Shelley said, and Rachel turned to gape at her.Gotcha, Shelley said.

Rachel threw back her head and laughed, and after a moment Shelley joined her.

*Buffy lay sunning herself on the back porch when Rachel and Shelley came home. Shed

been out there all afternoon, dozing intermittently. Right now she was awake, eyes closed,listening to the surf, the boats, and the people playing on the white sand. All afternoon she hadlet her mind drift, thinking about what Pike had said, and Shelley, and Rachel. She thought aboutXander and Willow, and Giles, and her mother. She even gave a brief thought to Cordelia. Butmostly she dwelled on Angel, how shed never see him again, and how tenderly he used to kissher. She wondered idly what he would think of her quitting her job as the Slayer; would he sidewith her for trying to lead her own life, or quietly remind her that she had a duty. She couldntdecide; but she wished he was around to ask. Somewhere in all that she heard Kendras words toher just before they parted near the end of her first visit to Sunnydale: You talk about slaying likeit's a job. It's not. It's who you are.

Buffy sighed. Maybe it is, maybe it isnt, Kendra. Look where it got you.She sat up, taking a sip from her soda. If I keep doing this, Ill end up like her-- lying on

some floor somewhere in a pool of blood. Ive already done death. Most people dont come backin the game after theyre tagged out. Im already cheating.

But mom, and Giles, and Willow... Xander... they depend on me. Who keeps them safewhile I sort my head out here on the beach? This isnt fair to them.

Its fair to me, though.

Isnt it?Buffy opened her eyes, looking through the dark sunglasses at the sun-drenched water.Hey, Rachel offered as she stepped onto the porch.Buffy turned to face her. Hey.Just another day in paradise? Rachel asked her.Buffy shrugged. This place is really motivational if your goal is to soak the rays, she

answered. How do you guys get anything done?



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The vampire king? The one who went after Shelley?Rachel nodded.Jesus, that guy was horny, Buffy said.Rachels voice dropped low. Tell me about it. He liked his honeys. He was still pissed

about losin Shelley-- and that had been months before. I know some guys have a hard timedealin with rejection, but... Rachel shrugged. Anyway, hed seen me one night and had one ahis boys follow me. They dragged my stoned ass back to his mansion, and he starts goin offabout once my blood is clean, hes gonna make me some sorta undead princess, how Ill beyoung and beautiful forever.

Rachel looked out at the ocean. Funny how they always leave out the fine print. Oh, bythe way, you have to suck blood for eternity. Forget sunsets. Youll never be tan. Your face isgonna get real ugly, and, oh yeah, a demon will live inside your body.

Buffy nodded. Quite a lovely package they have there.Rachel laughed. In a bizarro way that asshole saved my life. Whatever he gave me took

three days to get out of my system. I was like a zombie for like a day and a half. So, when I wasfinally ready, Herzog has one of his boys... she trailed off.

Buffy reached over and touched her arm. Its okay, you dont have to spill.

Told you this much already, Rachel said.Buffy nodded sympathetically.So, anyway, she took a deep breath. This vamp... he samples me. Makes sure my

blood isnt toxic for the man. She spat off the side of the deck. Herzog was anal about hisvictims being pure. But by this time, I was. And thoroughly and completely wigged shitless. Ithought I had snapped, that I was imagining all this shit. I was freakin.

Howd you get out? Buffy asked.Rachel smiled and drank the rest of her soda. Enter the Slayer wannabe.Buffy raised her eyebrows. Shelley?Rachel smiled. Yep. You shoulda seen her, Buffy-- she went completely medieval on

their asses. Never saw nothin like it. She was stabbin vamps right and left. They didnt knowwhat hit them.

Rachel shook her head. They couldnt get away-- when they tried, Pike and Marcusnailed them with the holy squirt guns.

Excuse me? Buffy coughed.Super-soakers filled with holy water. Rachel tilted her head. Dont you use them?Never thought of that, Buffy replied.You should try it. Vamps go gonzo when they get doused with that stuff.Buffy shook her head. You guys certainly are creative.Hey, were the wannabes, yknow? We gotta be. She smiled.So Shelley saved your life, huh?Rachel nodded. I know this is gonna sound real Hallmark, but in more ways than one. I

was a major veggie when I realized all that crap was real. She took me in and took care of me

until, well, until I got better.Rachel stood up. Come on inside. I wanna show you something.Okay, Buffy said, standing up and following her.They went in the house and upstairs, passing Pike and Shelleys room and heading into

Rachels. Buffy followed her in gingerly, but Rachel knew exactly where to step amidst themess. Buffy was a little taken aback; she could be a little messy herself, but Rachel apparentlynever cleaned at all. Clothes lay strewn all over the bare box springs, the mattress, and herdresser and desk. CDs sat abandoned by their cases, scattered all over the room. Books and



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magazines littered the wreckage, as well as a small fortune in computer equipment. Rachelpushed some stuff off of one corner of the box springs and said, Have a seat.

Buffy sat, looking up at her.I know, its a pigsty, she said. But thats not an accident. She smiled at Buffys

tentative expression. I know what youre thinkin. Youre thinkin, bullshit.In not so many words, Buffy admitted.Rachel nodded. I dont sleep in a bed anymore. Thats where they got me, yknow? She

grabbed a book from a small pile of them on the dresser and sat down in the small cleared spacenext to Buffy. Ive been sleeping on the mattress on the floor for four months, Buffy. Im nevergettin in a bed again, period. No way.

These people have really been terrorized, Buffy thought as Rachel brushed her hair backbehind her ear and handed Buffy the book.

And this would be? Buffy asked. It had a red leather cover and an embossed M ingold in the center.

Yours, Rachel supplied.Buffy raised an eyebrow. Is this twenty questions or do you just like really dig being

mysterious?

Rachel smiled. Open it. Youll see.Buffy opened the book; the smell of paper rose up to greet her. She flipped the first page

over and saw, unmistakably, a Polaroid of herself wedged in between the next two pages.Whats this? she asked, looking at the picture. It was a few years old; she hardly even

looked the same, to her own eyes.Keep goin.Buffy turned a page, and she saw the small, square handwriting, neatly straight even

though the pages had no lines on them. She closed her eyes. No, she whispered.Rachel looked away. I think he woulda wanted you to have this.Buffy opened her eyes, tears welling up in them. She started to read the neat little words

on the page.In all the years I have trained as a Watcher I have never either seen or heard of agirl quite as remarkable as Buffy Summers. Constance carried a certain fire, and Doris was asdedicated a student as they come. But neither of my former Slayers possessed the raw skill andquick thinking of this young woman. I find it the height of irony that as my twilight years areclosing in I should have finally found the one girl who can at last bring Lothos to his knees.

This is Merricks, Buffy said, a single tear rolling down her cheek.Rachel watched her in silence. He never told me... I knew he liked me and all, but he

never spilled this.Rachel sat in silence nervously, playing with the ring on her collar. You want I should

give you some space? she asked after a minute.No, Buffy said hollowly. She frowned, her eyes unable to focus on the page. I think

Ill... Im gonna... She shook her head and stood up. Im gonna go give this the once over,okay?

Rachel nodded. Ill call you when dinners on.Buffy nodded and wandered out of Rachels room and into her own. She put the book

down on the bed and sat and looked at it for along time, thinking of Merrick and all that he hadtried to teach her. After many minutes of thinking about him, and remembering him, shetentatively reached out and opened the cover again and started to read.



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*Pike studied the large map hanging in the upstairs den. They had marked it with pins

where they had fought vampires, and there were little colored round balls all over the greaterL.A. area map. A few were scattered along the shoreline, stretching from Santa Monica, wherethey were, all the way down to Huntington Beach; but they also stretched inland as far asAnaheim in the south and San Dimas in the north. Here and there were little clusters of pins,where they had encountered several vampires. Most of the pins were red, meaning that thevampire had been killed; but there were a few blue ones, for escaped vampires, a half dozenyellow pins, where they suspected attacks had taken place but couldnt prove it, and one whiteone, at the dump Rachel used to stay in, where they had slain Herzog.

You say Rachel dug up something about vamps in the Hills? Pike asked.Shelley glanced away from the computer. Yes. Three attacks, maybe four.Pike frowned. Theres never been much action in that area. They usually stick to the

poorer areas of the city, with higher population density. He scratched his head. What are theyafter?

Maybe theyre setting up shop in the valley? Shelley wondered.Thats a long way to go hunting, Pike offered. Why not just feed in the valley?Shelley shrugged, tapping on the keyboard. You got me. Why stay in L.A. at all? Weve

killed nearly fifty of them. Youd think someone would get the hint that we dont roll out thewelcome wagon for the undead.

Pike nodded. They are stubborn bastards, arent they?Shelley smiled evilly. So are we.He reached out and played with her hair. That we are.She slid a hand to the small of his back, rubbing him there.Nothing in the files? he asked.Nada, she confirmed. We have zero records on attacks in Beverly Hills until last

night. She smirked. Apparently they dont let vampires in, either.Pike grinned. Okay, so we have what, either someone new in town who doesnt play by

the rules, someone careless and hungry and greedy who got lost...Shelley picked up where he trailed off. Or a smart vampire who realized we hit

downtown a lot and is moving away from our normal patrol area.Pike whistled. Thatd be one perceptive vampire. I didnt know they kept maps.They must talk, Shelley said. They must pass it on, you know, Stay away from the

beach, and all that.I guess, Pike agreed. You got a point there. They have stopped hitting the beach

lately.Good, Shelley said, at least weve won backsome real estate.So what do you think last night was? Pike asked.

Id go with greedy and a little lost. I really cant imagine that any lone vamp-- or even asmall group-- knows enough about the way we work to predict us. She turned to face him andslid her arms around his waist. But well know soon enough, wont we?

Pike nodded, tousling her hair. Keep Rachel on top of those obits. If they all startpoppin up out of the ground, Id say we have somebody trying to build an army, and fast, too.

She buried her face in his stomach and sighed. I hope not.I hope not too, he said. But if thats what it is... hey, maybe Buffy will help us.Shelley closed her eyes.I doubt it. Well see, she mumbled.



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Hey, shes good people, Shell. Give her some time to heal. She just lost that guy Angel.he shook his head.

Come on, Pike, the Slayer in love with a vampire? How much more bizarro can youget?

He nodded. Ill admit its more than a little out of the way, but... He ran a hand throughher hair. I told you, Buffy is unusual. Witness the proof of that. She fell in love with one of theworst vampire kings in history.

Shelley looked up at him. But Angelus is such a bastard.Was, Pike corrected. Look, I dont know from gypsy curses, but it obviously worked

on him. Buffy wouldnt make kissy-face with a megalomaniac vampire warlord.She did kill him, Shelley reminded him.Yeah, and look what it did to her. He leaned over and kissed Shelley on the top of the

head. Give her time, Shell. Shes already talkin about them. Thats an improvement overMonday.

You really think if this is another vampire king that shell help us?Pike nodded.I hope so. Oh, yeah. She may be in a rough place right now, but shes the

Slayer.

Shelley snorted.Ill admit it would be better for the home team if the vamps took their time building this

army. I dont think Buffys gonna be ready for active duty anytime soon. But I definitely thinkshes on the disabled list. She aint retired.

Shelley closed her eyes. I hope not. We need her.Pike disengaged himself as he heard the doorbell ring. Me personally, Im hopin we

dont need her for a while. Im hopin we catch these greedy bastards and cut this off before itgoes nuts. Give her more time to get it together.

The doorbell rang again. Dinner, hon. Cmon, lets eat.

*Pizza Hut catered dinner. Rachel talked a little bit about her classes, and the computer labshe hung out in after school. Pike and Shelley spoke less, talking about the surf, the weather, anda possible fall vacation. The meal passed in such a wonderfully normal way that Buffy stayedsilent the whole time, savoring how much this differed from her usual routine.

What if this was your usual routine? she wondered. What if, instead of going out to themall, you went and hunted vampires-- like a hobby or something. She smiled as she watchedPike and Shelley tease one another.No need to hide what you were at home, no need to sneak inthe window. No need to lie to mom about...well, not anything. Id still have to lie about boys. ButI wouldnt have to lie so much...

As they cleared the table, Buffy asked Pike, So, where will you be patrolling tonight?

Shelley stopped and stared at Buffy; Rachel kept moving into the kitchen.I thought you didnt want to talk shop, Pike answered her softly.Buffy shrugged. I didnt say I was coming, she told him. But even someone retired

can still talk about the game.Pike smiled. And offer advice.Buffy frowned slightly. Lets try just talking first. No backseat coaching for now.Pike nodded. Fair enough.Were going club hopping, Shelley told her.



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Buffy turned to face her. You guys definitely have the right attitude with this.Shelley continued. We think there might be a small team of vamps that are working

some of the clubs in Beverly Hills. Pike and Marcus and I will--Marcus? Buffy asked. Just how many Scoobys are there in this gang?Were a gang of four, Rachel responded, coming back into the dining area.Buffy nodded. Sorta like mine-- well, five if you count Cordelia. Four and a half.

Cool.Anyway, the three of us will hit the clubs. Rachel will stay with the van.Rachel frowned. Just because I was point girl last night--Pike shook his head. Its not that, Rache. You cant pass for legal. Me and Shelley can.And Marcus? Buffy asked.Rachel pouted Marcus is legal.Ah, Buffy said.The three of us will flush them out at the clubs, Pike said as Shelley moved into the

kitchen. If it ends up they have more friends waiting out back, or theres more than we canhandle... He gestured at Rachel. Wheels here will bail us out.

Sounds like a plan, Buffy said.

Im gonna head upstairs and get changed, Pike said. He turned to Shelley. CallMarcus. Tell him well pick him up at 9:30. Kay?

Gotcha, Shelley said.Pike left and went upstairs.So, Buffy said to Rachel, whats up until then?Rachel frowned. My turn to load the van. Major drag.Buffy put her hands in her pockets. Want some help?Rachel raised an eyebrow.Really, Buffy said. Seriously.Rachel tilted her head, still wearing a skeptical expression. Okay, she said. Cmon.

Rachel led her into the kitchen and near the sink. First, we gotta fill the soakers with holy water.Normally wed go light on that because nobody takes a water gun into a club. But Im expectina little mambo with the undead outside. Best to go in with a lotta wetness.

Buffy nodded.Rachel opened the cabinet and pulled out two-gallon jugs of water with the blue crosses

on them. She handed them to Buffy and grabbed two more of her own.You guys are really into that Boy Scout thing, arentcha? Buffy asked. You know, Be

prepared?Rachel grinned. Like I toldya, were the wannabes. What we lack in muscle we make up

for with sly cunning. She chuckled as Buffy raised an eyebrow. Okay, so we cheat. Long as weleave little piles of ashes behind us, Im not complainin.

Thats the idea, Buffy said.Rachel grabbed the jugs and headed for the cellar. After we fill the guns, we check to

make sure we have all the other crap-- stakes, crosses, you know. I cant believe how we gothrough stakes.

Yah, Buffy agreed.Rachel descended the stairs and turned to face Buffy. Lissen to me, tellin you how to

get ready for a hunt. Sorry.No biggie, Buffy said. Its not like I ever got to compare notes much.I bet, Rachel said. Okay, she said, moving into the garage and setting the jugs down

so that she could open the doors of the van. She flipped open the two chests that sat by the rear



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doors and pulled out the two super soakers that lay in each one. One was full; the other three hadbeen used to various extents. Rachel handed Buffy a funnel. Careful with that stuff, she said,indicating the holy water. We cant see the Rev more than once a week. Its a little tough toreplace.

You guys actually have a reverend who blesses this stuff for you? Buffy asked,incredulous.

Hell yeah, Rachel said. Shelley goes to see him. I have not a clue what she tells him.He probably thinks she drinks it or something, the way we go through it. He probably thinksshes nuts.

Buffy shrugged.Arent we all a little nuts?Okay, while you fill those, Im gonna check... she rummaged through the chest. We

need stakes. She turned to face Buffy. Hold on, I gotta tell Shelley. Be right back. At Buffysblank look, she stopped and said, Marcus usually makes the stakes for us. He works some placemaking furniture. Gets em nice and sharp, too.

Buffy stared at Rachel. Has it occurred to you guys that you are way too into this? sheasked.

Rachel stopped and looked at Buffy, her dark eyes staring into those of the Slayer.

Silently she reached up and removed her collar. See this? she asked, pointing to the side of herneck.

Buffy followed the paler strip of skin around Rachels throat -- she mustnever take thatthing off-- to the right side of her neck. There were two small red scars, a few inches apart, inroughly circular shape. Oh my god, Buffy thought. She carries this with her all the time, thisreminder.

If I can keep some other chick-- or guy-- from having this nightmare, then I will.Nobody deserves this, Buffy. Nobody. So if I get banged up on the arm, or I get blood on me--tough shit for me. Some other kid out there is gonna grow up and live his life happy because ofme. Because I stopped some vamp from gettin to him.

Rachel put her collar back on. So if I am too into it, sue me.I didnt say it was a bad thing, Buffy said defensively.The anger that had flared in Rachel dissipated at once. I know. Its just...Buffy gave her an inquisitive look.You know, I feel that way, once in a while too, like, why the hell am I doin this?

Rachel shook her head. Then I look in the mirror after a shower and I remember why.Buffy said, Rachel, look, Im sorry. I have no right to knock what you guys do or how

you do it. She pouted. Its not like Im perfect girl myself.Buffy was caught completely off guard as Rachel reached out and embraced her. Hey,

Rachel told her. Join the club.Buffy returned the hug and said, Thanks for understanding. I know it must bug you guys

that here sits the Slayer while youre out there risking your necks. They parted. So to speak.It doesnt have to bug us, Rachel said, raising an eyebrow and grinning.

I really think you better go tell Shelly about those stakes, Buffy said.Rachel kept grinning. If you change your mind, she shrugged. Van seats six.Go! Buffy said, shaking her head as Rachel went upstairs.

*



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Pike slid the jacket on, looking at himself in the mirror. A year ago I woulda thoughtArmani was a tennis player, or an Italian car, he realized. Shelley certainly knows her threads.And God knows she even knows what suits me. Look at me-- I almost look good in this.

He opened, then closed the collar of his silk mandarin shirt. Hon, collar; open orclosed?

How rich do you wanna look? Shelleys reply wafted out of the bathroom.Rich enough, he answered.Never parked your own car or own the place? she asked back.Pike raised an eyebrow. Lets go with valet boy. I dont wanna look too stacked.Open, Shelley advised.Pike opened the collar. Thats better anyway, he muttered.Almost ready? she asked.Im not the one in the bathroom, he replied in a singsong voice.Neither am I, anymore, Shelley said, and Pike turned to look at her as she came into the

bedroom.Woah, he said, his eyes widening as he took her in. Shelley wore a sleeveless yellow

satin dress that fit her very snugly and accentuated every inch of her slim frame. Her long mane

had been gathered up in a bun at the back of her head, and she carried a tiny little matching purse. Pike shook his head; she wore more make-up than usual, but it was applied artfully,enhancing her cheekbones and eyes and bringing them out. Red, red lips smiled at his inability tospeak.

You like? she asked, pirouetting for him.Likes an understatement, he managed to wheeze out. Id go with awestruck.Shelley smiled and Pike felt his heart do a funny flip-flop. Youve seen me dressed up

before, she told him.He shook his head. Not like this.Play your cards right, she whispered, moving close to him, and you can help me get

out of this costume when we get home. She brushed her lips against his and pulled away,smiling widely.

Pike cleared his throat, trying to speak, but nothing came out.Shelley bit her bottom lip softly as she stepped back. Not that you dont look good

enough to eat, she said, giving him a devilish grin.Pike looked behind him, turning around. Are you addressing I? he asked her.Shelley nodded very deliberately. I almost wish the vamps would hit the Hills more

often, if thats what it takes to get you dressed up, she said.I can think of other incentives, he managed.Shelley arched a dark eyebrow. I bet you can. She smiled. Come on, we should get

going.He offered her his arm, and she took it. He smiled at her, but suddenly he stopped.What?

Youre wearing heels? he asked her.Have to. This doesnt work with flats.Pike frowned. But if things get ugly...Quicker than he would have imagined, Shelley slid out of her shoes and adopted a

defensive stance.I shoulda known better than to doubt you, he said.Yes, you should, Shelley agreed, stepping into her shoes and leading him out of the

bedroom.



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They made their way downstairs, but no one was in the living room. Must be loadin the

van, still, Pike said, and Shelley nodded.He stopped her. What are you wearing?Hmmm?That scent... thats gotta be you. He smiled. Nothing else could smell that good.Guilty as charged, Shelley said, extending a wrist. He inhaled and closed his eyes.You remembered, he said.Dear, a woman does not forget these things, she murmured to him.Pike took her hands. You know, Shell... he trailed off, looking into her eyes.He shook his head. I just wish... you know... I wish this was just you and me going out

tonight, you know? Just two kids having a night on the town? No killing, no death, no spikes inyour inside pocket.

Shelley nodded. I know how you feel. I feel that way too, once in a while. But if we doour jobs right, then the vamps will go away, and we can do that the rest of our lives.

He sighed. I know. I know. But dont you ever worry that therell just be another, andanother, and another. Like well never get this job done?

I dont give it much thought. Theyll eventually catch on, and then we can retire. She

smiled. Lets just worry about tonight, okay?He kissed her forehead. Okay, he agreed, and they went down into the cellar.No one was there, either, so Pike and Shelley went out into the garage. Rachel was just

climbing into the drivers side, and she turned to look at them.Holy shit! she blurted. Prom night!Shelley chuckled; Pike flushed. Is this the limousine service? Shelley asked Rachel.Rachel stepped over and opened the side door. Here ya go, watch your step. Rachel

eyed them as they got into the van. Shit, Shell, that thing is tight. You are workin it, though.Shelley winked at her. Told you I could, she sassed, and Rachel laughed. She hopped

in the drivers seat and started the van.As Rachel was pulling out, Buffy turned around from the passengers seat, her eyes

widening as she saw Pike and Shelley dressed like they just stepped out of GQ. No way! Youtwo are totally Mr. and Mrs. Killer! I am so jealous.

Rachel pulled out onto the street. Shelley and Pike looked at one another for a longmoment, and then back at Buffy.

No offense, Buff, and happy to have you, but you do understand the purpose of this littlesoiree, no? Pike asked.

Buffys only response was to give them a wide, knowing smile. Hey, even MichaelJordan came out of retirement...

* * *

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Buffy: Innocent Blood Chapter 3

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