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I'm frozen with my hand on the doorknob. I hardly know where I am or why. The moments pass but my brain is not functioning.

The music continues. Part of me realizes I've messed up the timing of what should be the simplest thing we planned. We were supposed to enter the room at the same time when Xander started the music.

In my mind, Buffy is emerging from her hallway, looking across the room, and seeing a closed door instead of me. I see her wearing an elaborate, lacy wedding gown, complete with veil, bouquet, and twelve-foot train. Her lip trembles. She stares at my closed door, about to cry. The vision in my mind is vividly painful.

I'm so sorry, Buffy. So sorry.

I turn away from the door to go hide in the bathroom. What do I do? How do I put a stop to all this? But I pause at the bathroom door. No hiding. That's not me. I've got to go out there right now and just tell everybody... somehow... that this is not happening. I owe that to everyone, especially Buffy. Poor Buffy. She's wondering what's going on, and it's cruel to leave her out there waiting.

I reach for the doorknob to the main room again. The music continues on the other side, but there's only a tense silence from the people. No voices. No questions. Not yet.

OK. Deep breath. Calm down. Get it over with, and don't hurt Buffy any worse than you have to. Not too many guests out there–that makes it easier. Some wasted time and money, but not all that much. I'll tell Buffy whatever I have to... I'm too young, or whatever. Don't want her to think it's her fault. I do love her, I just... can't do this.

I turn the knob. Just a fraction. Frozen again. Oh, hell. If only I could just hide forever. What do I say... and to who? Should I take Buffy aside and tell her privately, or just spill the beans to the whole group? Oh God, this is awful! What have I gotten myself into?

Oh, and then there's the name thing. Shit! That's signed and sealed. As of noon today... which has already passed.

You know what? Screw the name thing. Faith Summers. I like it. Has a nice ring. It may be a little weird if we aren't married, but I'll keep the name to show Buffy this isn't a total rejection. Plus I can't very well ask my lawyer to help me change it back for free.

I suppose I ought to go through with the wedding just for everyone else's sake. But I know, deep down, Buffy wouldn't want that. She wouldn't want me to do this for the wrong reasons. If I do this, and then she figures out I didn't want to... now that will be a fight!

It's too bad things got this far, but it's really best for both of us not to rush into this. I hope she'll understand! I wish I knew what to say to make her understand.

It's been so long by now, I may as well wait for the song to end.

No. She's out there wondering what the hell is going on. Someone might even come in after me. I have to face this right now.

It's as though I'm watching someone else's hand turn the knob the rest of the way. My legs feel weak, and once again I can hardly breathe.

I open the door. Across the back of the room, Buffy's door is just now opening, too. Maybe she got delayed herself. Perfect timing after all...

Not that it matters. Timing isn't an issue any more. At least she wasn't standing out there the whole time with people staring at her.

Willow told me last week that I'm self-destructive. I ruined my friendships in Sunnydale, ruined being a Slayer... even tried to get Angel to kill me. Red hinted that she's afraid I'll try to ruin things with Buffy all over again. I told her she's crazy... but could there be a little truth in it? Maybe? One more little way that Faith is messed in the head?

Buffy steps through her door as I step through mine.

For a moment my legs almost give out. Me, the Vampire Slayer! She's the loveliest thing anyone has ever seen! I half-expected that she might surprise me with a full wedding gown after all, but she's wearing a very simple white sleeveless dress, cut just above the knees and hugging every perfect curve. The only lace is the panel at her chest. One white rose in her hair, a coincidental match to the red one in mine. Lipstick in a subtle shade. Low heels, also white, and a simple flat belt with a silver buckle. And a wooden stake hanging at her hip. I recognize her sense of humor–the one Willow said Buffy left in the grave until she started seeing me... but somehow it looks right more than funny.

We sort of gape at each other, and nobody moves. Not us and not our friends, seated up by the front of the hall and turning to look back at us.

I ask myself... why did I get myself into this? Why did I think I should get married? Well... why shouldn't I? Why the hell shouldn't I?

I remember what she said to me when she proposed and I shot her down. You don't forget words like those. I love you more every day and I always will.

I can do this. I've waited my whole life to do this! I stop gaping at her and smile.

I am so gonna marry that Slayer!

She doesn't smile back. She's spending a little extra time in the gaping phase, her eyes exploring my outfit. I smile wider. That's right, B... take a good look!

My black dress reaches to my black high heels. Open almost to the waist in back and scooped low in front. A thin band of black velvet around my throat, and deep maroon lipstick. The cord belt is black–I came up with something much better than that to add the red accent I wanted. The dress is slit in front of my left leg. Slit all the way to the belt! A hint of my stomach peeks through the slit when I move, along with my red bikini–the perfect balance to the blossom in my hair.

I allow my leg to slip forward through the slit. Doesn't help the gaping any... she's just standing there. I hope the music is long enough for us to make it up the aisle!

I realize now that the room has been transformed. White streamers hang over all the walls, and white flower arrangements decorate the table and the podium. Not to mention the biggest cake I've ever seen in real life. We planned the flowers, but who thought of the streamers? So many... Somebody worked fast! And a couple of the most glaringly bright lights have been turned off. It doesn't look like we're in a prison at all anymore.

Dawn's standing by the door my lover just came through, dressed in pale green, ready to lead her "sister" down the aisle. Buffy and I were both hoping Buffy's father could stand with her for the service, but he couldn't make it. He sent his best wishes, but he's not even in the country. So the Brat will accompany Buffy instead. Look at her... she's got the harmless-innocent-girl look down pat. Not the look she gave me a half hour ago!

As for me... there's no one to lead me up the aisle and stand at my side. That bothered both of us a little, but there isn't anyone that felt right to me. At least, not anyone willing to do it. Willow maybe, but she's Buffy's oldest friend, not mine. And she was the backup to perform the ceremony, anyway. So I'll do this alone, and Buffy will do it with... that creature.

The seconds tick by and Buffy remains wide-eyed and motionless. Finally, the Brat coughs and Buffy snaps out of it. A smile spreads over her face and I know I'm the luckiest person who ever lived. Dawn takes Buffy's arm and they approach as Tara snaps a few polaroids. I move forward to meet them at the center aisle–no carpet, just a space between the chairs–and the three of us walk down toward the podium. I'm so happy all of a sudden, I barely even remember to worry about the Key–but I'm glad Buffy is between her and me.

Buffy and I haven't touched each other for two months, and not at all since we've been engaged. I want to squeeze her to me right now and kiss her for about a week. And I sense the same tension from her. I swear I can feel her at my side even though we aren't actually touching. But somehow we manage to walk calmly side by side as the music starts to wind down. Everyone is staring at us. At me mainly, if I do say so myself! We reach the podium, where there's a little bit of carpeting.

It's not a Christian ceremony, just our own creation, but the assembled Wiccans, vengeance demon and vampire certainly don't mind. Buffy's family might care–but they're not here. Only Spike, Willow, Tara, Xander, Anya and Dawn are present. And of course someone has to conduct our ceremony.

I see Giles made it after all! Complete with tuxedo. Who but our former Watcher could marry two Vampire Slayers? If he hadn't made it, Willow was ready to step in... but I know it meant a lot to Buffy to have Giles here. And he's someone else who is owed a personal apology from me. But he wouldn't be here at all if he wasn't already convinced that I'm better. He eyes me with a hint of caution, but I can tell Buffy has sold him on me already. His look softens. He and I are both relieved I think. I wasn't expecting a bad scene... but I was a bit nervous about seeing him again.

"Thanks for doing this, Giles," Buffy whispers.

"I assure you, the pleasure is all mine," he answers quietly, looking at both of us with an oddly proud smile. "And I must apologize again for my initial reaction to your request. For some reason it just sounded like a joke... what can I say?" When Buffy called Giles to invite him to her wedding with her mortal enemy, I am told he laughed so hard he dropped the phone.

With only five people in the audience, they're all gathered close to the podium. An even smaller room would have been just fine. Xander has a camcorder running on a tripod to capture everything, and now that we're at the podium he can aim it and leave it alone. The music stops, right on cue.

Giles clears his throat and speaks louder. "We are gathered here to join two very important people in a marriage that will be remembered for a thousand generations. Nothing like this has ever happened before, and it will likely never happen again. I know the brides have some words for each other, but first, is there anything anyone else would like to say as we begin?

"Yes. I'd like to say a few words."

"Angel!" Buffy and I exclaim in unison.

"Sorry I'm late." He's smiling sheepishly... and smoking at the edges a bit... but he's here. He accepted my request after all! He will stand by my side as I marry my lover, just as Dawn stands beside Buffy. He must have slipped through the gate quietly as Giles was talking. The vampire who first made me realize that you can turn back from the path of evil. The vampire who sent my Buffy to me. He approaches and takes my arm.

This means a lot to me, but I can tell it means far more to Buffy. Her eyes are watering, even as she smiles.

Angel addresses the group, speaking softly. "I've known both of these women in some very difficult times, through pain that no one should ever have to face, and I know first hand what strong and good human beings they both are." He turns to us. "I was surprised to learn that you were together... and I guess it took me some time to come to terms with the situation. But I can truthfully say that I've never met two people more perfect to be joined in this way. It is a great honor to be here for this moment, and knowing the happiness you will bring each other makes me very happy, too." Then he hurriedly adds, "Not too happy, of course." Very reassuring.

A tear rolls down Buffy's cheek. Nothing could have done more to make this day perfect for her.

"Anyone else?" says Giles. He glances at Dawn and her eyes widen. I don't think he means she has to speak. But she must think it's expected since my attendant said something.

"Um... OK... I've known these sisters... I mean my sister and Faith... well, I guess not for very long, but it seems like it... and... Buffy really wants this bad." She's fidgeting and stumbling over her words, put on the spot unexpectedly. I could almost sympathize with her plight. "I've never seen Buffy like this, she's been driving us all crazy... she was all depressing after she... after she died... and then now she's kinda gone too far the other way. But that's cool, 'cause she's the best sister ever! So I think she should get what she wants. And, um... that's all." She's blushing with embarrassment. "Oh! And... congratulations. And... that's all."

Buffy gives her a kiss on the cheek. One good thing: I'm glad Dawn's not going to try to stop this. Or at least, not with mere words...

Tara snaps a few pictures of us with our attendants, and Giles takes over again. "That was beautiful, Dawn. Now it's time for Buffy and Faith to say what they have prepared for each other."

Neither of us knows what the other will say. We turn to face one another and clasp each other's hands. Not because we planned that, it just feels right. Buffy's eyes tell me Dawn is right. Buffy wants this bad! And so do I.

After a while we realize that we're each waiting for the other to speak. I guess we didn't think of every detail. I whisper, "You can–"

"I can... I'll go first?" I nod.

Her breasts are heaving under the lace. With a nervous glance at the camcorder, she clears her throat and begins. "I died almost a year ago. I found myself in a dimension in which everyone I cared about was safe and happy forever. I was, too. There was no pain, no fear, no doubt, no sadness, no loss. I was in Heaven and I knew I always would be. And then suddenly I was buried alive, and I dug my way out into Hell. My city was in flames, my friends were in terrible danger, and everything was pain and fear." Buffy can't see, but Willow has begun to cry. I try to catch the witch's eye, but she's looking down.

Buffy continues. "Then I started receiving letters from someone who reminded me of even more pain. A scared, lonely, girl who was only sixteen when we met, and who deserved better than she got from life. Someone I had once wanted to share friendship with, but found hate and mistrust instead. But she didn't hate me, she hated herself. And that's very sad, because I've come to know her better recently, and she is the most wonderful and gentle person you could ever know." She addresses me now. "Faith, you've brought so much happiness into this world of fear and sadness that I would give up ever seeing that Heaven again, just to have one lifetime with you. The world isn't Hell anymore, it's my new Heaven, and that's as true when you're far away as it is when we're in each other's arms." I'm crying silently and holding her hands tight. "Being brought back to life to find you is the best thing that ever happened to anyone. I love you, Faith. I can never show you how much... but I'll never stop trying." She's memorized the words, but they're from the heart, and her voice breaks at the end.

Everyone has started to tear up. Even Spike. And yeah... even Dawn. Willow's smiling a little through her tears, and I can tell Buffy's words made a difference for her. But somehow I seem to be flat-out blubbering, and it's my turn to speak! How embarrassing. Some warrior I am.

"Buh... Buffy... I... When..." I stop and take a breath. "When... when I first met you... I could tell that you were the kind of person... the kind of person..." I stop. My mind is blank. I memorized something that I worked on for days, and now it's gone. "I have no idea what I was going to say!" I give Buffy an embarrassed smile. "It was something nice... I guess I'll just say that I was never loved by anyone ever until you. And... knowing you is worth that. Nineteen years without love is a small price to pay to be with you. I just... I just.. love you... so much, Buffy... Thank you Buffy, thank you for loving me! Thank you for being in my life!" I'm crying again, but I've run out of words anyway.

Buffy's crying, too. So are Willow and Tara and Xander. The others look just about ready to. I notice that Willow and Tara have their hands clasped. I wonder if they notice.

Giles begins again, with a sniff, his eyes shining. "I think it's time now for Willow and Tara to perform a Wiccan ceremony." He steps back from the podium and the witches step up in his place, leaving Xander in charge of the polaroid camera. Buffy and I reluctantly let each other go and move to the sides, but our eyes stay locked.

As Buffy said to me when we were planning this, we may not be followers of the Wicca faith ourselves... but any religion that can raise the dead must have something going for it! Although that particular spell may have been on the dark side. Anyway, this means a lot to Willow and Tara.

Willow takes a moment to compose herself, as Tara holds her arm, and then she speaks. "You two guys... you're so great for each other! That was so..." she trails off. "OK... Wicca ceremony here, gotta focus! This isn't exactly magic. You guys have enough of that on your own, and I'm not really doing the magic thing anymore. And this isn't a marriage ceremony, either. It's basically a prayer of sorts... a prayer for love and family, a prayer for good luck, and a prayer for being together with loved ones. We know you two can't often be together for real, but we can all tell that in every way that matters most, you're never apart. So... we've kinda combined a few things here."

Tara begins to chant, and Willow joins in second. Only a few of the words are English, but all of them are beautiful. At the end, the witches raise their clasped hands and speak in unison. "Together today. Together tomorrow. Together always." I'd like to think they're speaking for each other and not just for us.

Suddenly the air overhead is full of gleaming white particles... white flower petals, sparkling with magical energy, swirling and hovering near the ceiling. There are thousands of them, and their fragrance fills the air. They spin and flow without falling. It's breathtaking! No cathedral was ever this beautiful.

Willow looks up in surprise. Tara gives a shy smile. "I... I still do the magic thing."

"Thanks... that was great," I whisper as the witches take their seats again. There was never a wedding as nice as this ever! I can tell Buffy agrees.

Giles steps up one last time. "It's time for you to take your wedding vows." We agreed that we didn't need the whole "death do us part" and all that. Death has tried to part us before and it just wasn't any use. But we are still making a promise here today.

Buffy and I step close again, in front of the podium, and Giles speaks as the petals dance overhead. "Do you, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, take this woman Faith to be your wife and walk by your side in love forever?"

She looks me in the eyes with a smile that melts my heart. "I do."

I feel like I'm in a daze. I keep thinking I can't get any happier, but every moment is better than the last. This is too wonderful to be real. And yet it is.

"Do you, Faith the Vampire Slayer, take this woman Buffy to be your wife and walk by your side in love forever?"

My brain fails me for the second time today. My mouth drops open but nothing comes out. A long silence draws out.

But Buffy isn't worried. The tiny smile on her lips and the love in her eyes stay there as the long seconds pass. I stare back stupidly until finally I find my voice.

"Hell, yeah!"

Buffy's smile widens, and I take her hands again.

Giles concludes, "I pronounce you united in marriage. You may now... ah–you've figure it out on your own."

Buffy's hands on my shoulders pull me into a kiss that has all the romance and feeling of today's events behind it–not to mention the added heat of two months' separation! The glowing petals are warm to the touch as they begin to fall like snow, filling the air. The music begins again.

I'm suddenly aware of everyone's eyes on us. Makes me a little self-conscious. I almost start to hold back in the middle of the kiss.

Screw it, B, let's show 'em how it's done!

Our bodies press together and our tongues explore hungrily. That might be the sound of Tara's camera clicking, but nothing beyond Buffy's mouth and body exist for me. Oh, God! I wouldn't think a mere kiss could bring an orgasm, but I almost feel myself headed that way. Our hips press together. An embarrassing scene is averted when we break the kiss to breathe, and the applause begins. I know it was just as powerful for her: I've seen that desperate look on her face before!

We hold our faces close for a long while, wanting–needing–to continue that kiss. Tara's petals linger, swirling high again at the slightest movement of the air. But we have a CV tonight. There will be time for kissing... and more. We both decide to let this kiss end while it's still legal in public!

The applause dies away, and Tara poses us for a couple more photos. Giles has been hiding off to the side, his face red at our shameless display, but he takes his place at the podium for some snapshots.

"You're so beautiful, Buffy!" I whisper.

"Not as beautiful as you, my love! Where did you get that dress? I thought you weren't going to dress up! And is that the rose I planted? How...?"

"I'll never tell. You think I don't have my own life apart from you, B? But now you tell me... how did you get them to let you in here with that stake?"

Buffy pulls it out of its loop and fingers the tip. It's been carved completely blunt. "Poor Mr. Pointy! It killed me to do it!"

She hands me the stake, and the feel of it in my hands has an unexpected effect. A thrill runs through my veins. I grasp it properly and I notice Spike nonchalantly backing further away. Oh, God how I need to slay!

Reluctantly I hand the weapon back to Buffy. "It suits you! It's perfect. Everything... it's all so perfect!"

"Isn't it? I'm so glad you came out late, too, Faith... I'll confess I freaked out a little back there."

"Me, too. Right at the last minute! But one look at you got me back on track!"

Buffy opens her mouth, hesitates, and then goes ahead. "I guess I may as well tell you... it didn't just hit me at the end. I was freaking out all morning! My brain's been absolute mush! Willow found me in the bathroom, rolling around on the floor with my dress on backwards. I told her I gave up... I couldn't do it! But she got me through."

"Backwards? I would pay to see that! Sounds like you were having some real problems... But hey, we did it B! We did it!"

"We sure did, Ms. Summers!" I grin, realizing that from now on I'm going to be reminded of this day every time I hear my name. In fact, I know I'll get a little thrill out of correcting people when they use my maiden name.

Tara decides to give the posed photos a rest for a while. "Let's eat!" says Buffy–my wife–and I turn toward the table laden with food at the back of the room. But some subtle sign from Buffy puts me on alert. I turn to face her again, every muscle ready to respond. She's going to try something. I'm not sure what, but I'm not going without a fight!

Our eyes meet, and she knows that I know. No one but the two of us expects it when Buffy kicks me in the hip and lunges. Not so fast, B! I spin and grab her leg, trying to twist her onto the floor. She's ready for that, and levers against me leaving me off balance and forcing me to let go. Suddenly I'm lifted off the ground, laughing.

"Be still," she says, "we're scaring everyone!" Buffy walks down the aisle toward the goodies, smiling proudly and carrying me under my knees and shoulders. Accepting defeat, I let her. No more fighting–for now. "Next time, B!" I whisper, giving her a playful look of warning and rearranging my dress modestly. Note to self: a dress slit to the waist is all well and good for standing... but it tends to fall away completely in other positions!

I glance through the gates at the end of the room, but thankfully the guards are way beyond the outer gate and not paying attention to us. Everyone else is taken aback by our little fight, though. The Brat looks like she's about to wet her spooky self. She must have thought we were really after each other!

"Slayers at Play," quips Xander nervously, "Don't try this at home! And this is before they've had sugar!"

Tara snaps a picture of us. Great. Permanent proof that Buffy kicked my ass at our wedding.

At the table, Buffy waits for me to feed her since she won't put me down. So I feed us both some crackers and cheese, and everyone else gathers to help themselves. All formality is dropped. Hugs all around, and wiping of eyes brimming with tears. The wedding is over, but the party has just begun. Xander starts the music again for dancing, and most of the chairs are folded away.

Buffy finally stops showing off and puts me down, and I take a moment to thank everyone individually. Except for Dawn. She looks at me more with curiosity than dislike now, but we just avoid each other, which is fine by me. Her eyes are a bit red. Are fake tears one of her dark talents?

Anya touches my arm. "That was not a very traditional wedding, but I thought it was very nice."

Xander leans over to her. "I don't think anyone here is jealous of your family's traditions!"

Then he moves to the stereo at Buffy's urging, and our song starts–the one we danced to at the Bronze so long ago, and then later in a little prison trailer. Everyone steps back to watch the newlyweds dance. We put on quite a show, and the camcorder captures it all. I make a point of lifting Buffy into the air once or twice. You're not the only Slayer here, B!

Our stunts get a little out of control and we practically fall over laughing, but luckily the song is ending. I whisper in Buffy's ear, "We better not tire ourselves out too much, B... I don't think we'll be getting much sleep tonight!" There's no mistaking that look I'm getting. She wants me. Oh, Buffy... you're damn well gonna have me!

"Champagne?" Willow offers us each a glass as we catch our breath.

Buffy takes one, but I don't. "No, thanks. Underage drinking won't help my perfect conduct record any!"

Willow puts a hand to her mouth. "You're nineteen! I'm so sorry, we didn't even think of that! There's root beer... that's all we have for you I'm afraid."

"That's great–root beer's my favorite anyway."

"Really?" It's the Key, looking our way.

"Root beer was Dawn's choice," Willow explains. "We thought she would be the only kid. I mean... you know what I mean."

The Brat is opening a big three liter bottle. I can tell by the sound that it's been sealed–she hasn't tampered with it. I watch closely as she pours herself a glass. She looks at me, starts to move the bottle toward a second glass, and then thinks better of it. She puts the bottle down and slips away. I throw out the empty glass she was about to offer me–just to be safe–and get myself a fresh one.

Giles makes a toast. "To the Slayers! Long life and happiness." Not too original, but everyone drinks to that.

Buffy switches to Xander for the next dance, and Tara joins me. I've only met her twice–once during my dark days, when I had taken over Buffy's body, and once when she came with Buffy to visit me in prison. She seemed very nice, and happy for Buffy and I. "Thanks for the pictures, Tara–and your ceremony with Willow was wonderful!" The glowing petals just keep tumbling through the air as people dance and eat. I think I ate one, actually.

"I wasn't sure if I should do that surprise or not–you and Buffy planned everything out so well!" She's shy, but she's a keeper. I can see why Willow is so crazy about her.

"It's really nice. And I know you helped with the food. It's great. Thanks so much."

We dance a little longer before I decide to just dive into the rest of what I have to say. "Tara, we don't know each other very well, but I do know Willow. I hope you don't take this the wrong way, but somebody needs to say something. Willow's been off magic for months now, and I saw you holding hands during the ceremony... you can't tell me you two aren't in love. You need to tell each other how you feel!"

She looks very self-conscious, but at least not offended. "Oh... I... don't know. We talked about... dating again sometime, but I just don't know... I don't know how serious she is. After I... dumped her and all."

"She loves you, Tara! I know Buffy's been saying the same thing, and it's true. Now... Willow just went into the hall. You are going to go after her right now and tell her that you love her!"

"I don't think..."

"Now!" She looks down at the floor and I'm afraid I've crossed a line. But without another word, she vanishes through the door after Willow. I hope to God that a little prodding from a near stranger will do what Willow and Tara's friends haven't been able to.

Time for more food. We couldn't afford catering, but Buffy's friends have laid out quite a spread.

"You really did a nice thing today," I tell Angel as we load up our paper plates. "For me and Buffy both. It means so much to us to have you here. So... how did you get here in the middle of the day?"

"I parked in a handicapped spot and ran like hell for the door!"

"Are you OK?" Sunlight is just not good for vampires. He's not smoking anymore, at least.

He shrugs. "It stings a little. I just sent Xander to move my car before it gets towed. I hope."

"Don't worry, it'll be dark when we're done here." I take his hand. "Thanks, Angel. For coming today... for sending Buffy to visit me... for everything. For showing me a way to go on living." No question, I'd have taken my life in L.A. if it wasn't for him. Stealing his soulmate isn't how I would have wanted to thank him.

He smiles slightly and nods. I think he's actually a little bit proud of getting Buffy and I together.

Giles approaches with Buffy, and pulls two pieces of parchment out of his tux, one for her and one for me. Some nonsense in archaic English. I can barely read the fancy writing. A spell? A poem?

"What's this?" asks Buffy, frowning.

"Just a little gesture from the Council. Old-school obedient Slayers like Kendra may have gone the way of the dinosaur thanks to you two, and I for one couldn't be happier. They have no illusions of having any control over you. But you may need to work with them from time to time, so–take this for what it's worth. They mean well, sometimes."

"And this is...?" I can make out Buffy's name and mine, and Giles' signature at the bottom beside the Council's seal.

"This is a little piece of history. Slayers are called at age fifteen, and a few centuries ago it was not uncommon to be married already by that age. This paperwork is what you'll find in the Council archives, recording each marriage of a Slayer. I've signed as the Council's witness, and so... if it means anything at all to you... your marriage is officially recognized by an organization far, far older that your American government."

"Now we know what the Council does with their time," I quip. "But thanks, it's kinda cool I guess."

"Did the Council freak when you told them about us?" Buffy asks.

"They did, as you so aptly put it, 'freak'."

"Good," we say in unison.

When Giles moves off to exchange news with the Scoobies, Spike approaches and shakes my hand. "To the victor go the spoils, Slayer!" Buffy flashes him a look of warning, but he keeps his voice low. Whatever went on with him and Buffy, he's willing to keep the secret. I'm the only one who knows. If she ever tells the others, it won't be for a long time.

"Thanks, I guess." But an awkward silence falls between the three of us.

"Look," he says, "I won't pretend I'm not a little jealous... but congratulations. Half the guests here had hopes for you at one time, Buffy. Angel, Xander... even Willow if you ask me... but I know we're all happy that you're happy."

"Thanks, Spike." Buffy kisses him on the cheek.

"It's probably for the best," says Spike, "I've been thinking of looking up Drusilla again. That girl needs a chip in her head in the worst way."

"She'll kill you, Spike! And then I'll kill her!"

"I can handle Dru. Can you handle another harmless vampire in Sunnydale?"

"I hope you're not serious. But be careful, Spike!"

More food, more dancing... more playing, more laughing. With all this space, I really want to take on Buffy in a real fight. Can't do that in a little trailer. Buffy almost takes me up on the challenge... but there are guards outside, and we don't want to get into trouble.

"Too bad, kicking you around a little would make this wedding perfect, B!"

"Guess we'll have to find some way to spend our energy later on... when we're alone." She winks slyly.

We talk about how far we've come, how glad we are to be together, and how great her friends have been. Our friends. She wonders how she should tell her relatives about us. Her dad is the only one who knows–he was surprised, but sent his best wishes. I get quiet and Buffy knows right away what's wrong.

"Thinking about your mom?"

"Thinking about all my relatives... You know, I don't even know the name of a single one of them. My mom never even told me my grandparents' names! They probably don't even know I exist. Hell, I don't even know if I have any living relatives. Other than my mom."

She hugs me silently. And I realize that I don't really need any family to care that I'm married. She cares. I care. Good enough.

"I wish..." she begins, then shakes her head.

"What, Buffy?"

"I wish my mom was alive. I wish she could see us together."

"So do I, Buffy. She was the best." I hug her tight for a while and the somber moment passes. Nothing can dampen our happiness for long.

"Where's Willow?" asks Buffy. "Haven't seen her in a while. Tara either."

"Don't know, Buffy, but I don't think we need to go looking for them. They can't get far." And if, by any chance, they've found some private things to talk about... well then I think they ought to be left alone.

We head to the table to pick a new CD to play, and get more root beer. I can't help but notice a small wrapped present beside the cake. I'm always such a sucker for presents–just ask the late Mayor of Sunnydale. Maybe I never outgrew that excitement 'cause I never got any growing up. But I don't say anything. Don't want to seem greedy!

 

---

 

Buffy and I are dancing yet again and it turns into another kiss–we've been keeping them under control pretty well. When we pull apart at last, someone's emerging from the hall. None other than the Key to Hell herself, wearing a mischievous grin and glancing back at the hall door every few moments with a gleam in her eye. The grin fades when I make eye contact, but she approaches us.

"Hey, Faith... uh... want to dance? If you're done sucking my sister's face."

Brief moment of panic. "Well, I'm not sure I'm done." The Brat seems to have softened since the warning she gave me earlier, but I do not trust her. An unknown danger is one of the few things that can still scare me.

"Come on... I won't bite."

Buffy steps away, giving me a look. I do want things to be OK between Dawn and Buffy and me... on the off chance that such a thing is possible. I have to at least make an effort for Buffy's sake.

So I nervously take Dawn's hand. Feels almost human. She's not a bad dancer. Not great either. We don't make eye contact.

"You know, Faith, I used to think you were the coolest. Way cooler than Buffy. You and me used to pick on her all the time!"

"Well, I wasn't cool at all."

"No kidding. I stuck up for you and all you did was start calling me 'the Brat.'" My heart skips a beat. I only ever thought that in my head! Not even Buffy knows! What the hell is going on? She can read my thoughts!

But after a moment I realize she's just talking about the past, when I was in Sunnydale. She remembers being there and knowing me, even though I don't remember her. Apparently I called her "the Brat" to her face. Those magic fake memories cut pretty close to the truth!

At least this is turning out more awkward than scary. She seems so much like a normal fifteen-year-old girl... It's getting harder to hang on to my healthy fear. "Dawn, I wasn't the same person then. I've apologized to everyone but you."

"I know."

"I didn't apologize to you because I never met you. You weren't around. I never did anything to you, except in your head."

She shrugs.

"But I did do some terrible things to your friends. And I'm sure I would have been a jerk to you if you were there. So I'm sorry, Dawn. I'm really sorry for who I was."

No answer. I look at her, but she continues to avoid my eyes. I think about the 'older brother' talk she gave me, and the bright side that Willow saw in it: Dawn was worried about Buffy getting hurt. That sort of puts her and me on the same side, in a way.

"You kind of worry me, Dawn. I don't really understand what kind of creature you are."

That got a reaction. "I am not a 'creature'!"

"OK, well, you know what I mean. And also... well... trusting people has never been my strong point. I've been a little afraid of you myself, but mostly I've worried a lot about you hurting Buffy."

Rolling eyes.

"I know you've really been after Buffy to be careful of me, too, Dawn."

"Do you blame me?"

"No, Dawn. I don't blame you for that. In fact, I think that's why I'm feeling like... I don't know... maybe I can trust you after all. I'm starting to catch on that you care about Buffy a lot." I'm really not ready to trust her about that just yet–but maybe I'll think about it. Try it on for size.

"She's my sister!"

Um, no... she's not. Not really. Right?

I let out a sigh. "Yeah, I guess she is. I guess she's lucky to have someone there to look out for her. I guess I'm lucky to have you there to look out for her."

"Well, mostly she looks out for me, I guess."

"Dawn, if you or Buffy ever need anything, or if Buffy's in trouble and you don't know what to do... you should call my lawyer and she'll get me on the phone. Buffy has the number, and I'll give it to you."

"I already have it. Buffy made me promise to call you if... if something happened to her."

Her sudden silence at this thought mirrors mine, and I swear she just squeezed my hand a little tighter. And all at once I know... She really does care about Buffy. Go figure. I think about Buffy at home alone with her and I find I'm not afraid anymore. I'm not particularly afraid she'll try something against me, either.

"You wanna know a secret?" she whispers, looking me in the eyes for the first time.

Twinge of fear. Deciding to try trusting the Key and actually letting go of my doubts completely are two different things! I've had nightmares about her revealing her true self only to me, and nobody will believe me. "Sure, what?"

The mischievous grin is back. "I caught Willow and Tara making out in the hall! Willow was totally feeling inside the front of Tara's dress!"

I smile too. "That's great... I think those two are made for each other."

"They totally are! I think they should get married. They could have a cool Wicca ceremony!"

We dance in silence some more, but it's easier now. I guess I knew Dawn wanted the witches to get back together, but I always assumed she was interested in their power more than anything else. And yet here she is, just as excited as I am about their reunion!

She looks at me again. "Willow told me what you said. You made her get off her butt and go after Tara. And I saw you talking to Tara, too."

"Maybe I helped a little."

Buffy's dancing with Angel and watching us from across the room with a smile. She may not know we're actually getting along, but at the very least she knows we've managed to dance for several minutes without anyone running away screaming.

"Do you wanna know a secret?" I say. She nods. "I've always been kinda jealous of Buffy. She had everything, and I had nothing. She had a home, and an awesome mom, and friends, and a Watcher, and a boyfriend who loved her... everything."

"That's not a secret."

"But I have something new to be jealous of."

"What?"

"She has a sister. I always wanted a sister." I give her a smile and I get one back. Buffy notices. I catch her eye across the room. I thought today was already perfect, but now I know there was one little flaw, for Buffy and me both. It's healing now. The day is perfect.

"I guess you got one now."

"A wife and a sister in one day... I'm a lucky girl!" The Key and I–Dawn and I–have known each other for a while now, but we've been distant to say the least. I think it will be nice to get to know her better. She really is a sweet girl. Or... whatever the hell she is. "Hey," I smirk, "thanks for saying I have a cute butt!"

"Buffy told you that? I can't believe her!" She's turning to aim her glare at Buffy. The glare that I've had more than one nightmare about.

"No, Willow told me. But she stuck up for you, too. She likes you, and she wants me to like you. Everybody likes you. I can tell. Buffy especially."

"Do you know how crazy my sister is about you? She drives me nuts... Faith this, Faith that..."

Dawn risked approaching me, so I risk a small hug. Hesitating just a moment, she hugs me back. "I guess you did turn out pretty cool, Faith."

"Oh, yes. Way cooler than Buffy!"

"Like that's saying much!"

 

---

 

"OK," I call out, "who thinks it's cake time?"

The cake is four tiers–just stacked, not up on pillars like a "real" wedding cake, but it looks yummy. Tara and Xander's creation. Under the white icing, two of the tiers are chocolate cake and two are traditional white.

"We got two little plastic brides for the top," says Willow, "and Xander glued little stakes in their hands and everything. But Anya said they were just too cutesy... and we decided she was right!" Instead, white icing roses support a bouquet of miniature weaponry. Clubs, axes, knives... all those good things! Even a longbow... that takes me back! Nothing says love like edged weapons.

Buffy joins me to help cut the first slice and whispers, "Just so you know, Dawn helped make the cake. To avoid a scene, I asked her not to help with the chocolate layers. So if it wigs you out eating something from Dawn, just stick with chocolate." I'm a little embarrassed that Buffy felt she had to plan around my feud with her sister.

Xander zooms in with the camcorder and we cut a slice from the bottom layer. White cake. Buffy moves up to cut into the next layer, chocolate, but I stop her and put the slice of white on a plate. I take a forkful and feed it to her, then hand her the fork. "You saw Dawn and I dancing..." I say in a low voice. "Well I think we worked a few things out." She smiles and feeds me a bite of cake. Applause.

"Isn't she cute?" says Buffy. I give her a look. She's allowed to call me cute... I lost that argument months ago... but jeez, not in front of everyone! She laughs. "Faith hates being called cute! I think that's kinda cute." I stuff some more cake into her to shut her up.

We cut enough pieces for everyone. It's pretty good cake! I accept a root beer refill from Dawn and compliment her on the dessert.

Angel comes over to Buffy and I. "Faith has been eyeing that present all day. I think you should let her open it." The small, flat package with the white bow is still sitting on the table.

"I thought we all agreed, no gifts!" scolds Buffy.

"I don't remember that," says Willow thoughtfully. "Does anyone else remember that? No gifts?"

Everyone shakes their head, smiling. Buffy rolls her eyes helplessly and hands me our only wedding present. No gift tag. Guess it's from everyone.

I tear into it eagerly. For me, wrapping paper is one life's simple joys. The box contains only a card. I'm guessing that the finely wrought glitter and glue is the Key's handiwork. Dawn's handiwork. I wonder how Willow persuaded her to do it.

I open the card to find a check. Buffy and I stare, speechless.

"We can't take this!" I protest. "This is crazy! So much money..." Buffy and I are both shaking our heads, embarrassed. It's completely extravagant, and yet at the same time it's just money. What gift could be more meaningless and unnecessary?

"Well before you tear it up," Willow says, "you should note that the check isn't actually to either one of you."

I look closer. "My lawyer..."

Buffy lifts the check so we can read the inside of the homemade card: "Congratulations, Slayers! We hear you have a chance at getting transferred to minimum security, Faith, and we hope this helps you get there quicker."

Minimum security. That could mean a conjugal visit every month! And who knows what else would change in my life! I've planned on working for months to pay for each stage of the legal process. But with this check, I might almost have enough to cover everything! My lawyer could start working on this right now!

There are many signatures under the note. "Everyone pitched in," Buffy murmurs, astonished, "even Cordelia!"

"To be fair," says Willow, "Angel and Giles made the biggest contributions. By far."

Buffy looks up at Angel. I know what she's thinking. Even before he decided he could face coming today, he obviously already supported the two of us getting together. That's quite the soul he got cursed with.

"And to be fair," says Angel, "this was Willow's idea."

My eyes water. "Wow, I... I don't know what to say... thanks, you guys!" More hugs and tears. I have friends. Good friends. Prison or not, I am so much luckier than I deserve.

 

---

 

My new wife and I are dancing slowly now, and half the lights are off. The glowing petals are even more spectacular in the dim light. Willow and Tara are the only other dancers. Everyone else is seated, recovering from eating too much.

I whisper in Buffy's sweet little ear. "I'm so happy, darling... I never knew getting married could be so much fun! It's like a day-long orgasm!"

She touches her forehead to mine, runs her hand down my cheek and neck so lightly it makes me shiver, and whispers seductively. "No, Faith. It's not at all like that. Tell you what... I'll demonstrate tonight!"

We drift near where Anya's sitting with her arm around Xander's shoulder. "I wonder what it would be like to be a lesbian vengeance demon?" Anya says with a thoughtful expression.

"Just what a man likes to hear," notes Xander.

"Do lesbians need a lot of vengeance?" Anya asks.

I glance over at Willow and Tara, dancing close with eyes for nothing in the world but each other. The smiles and nods tell me they are talking by telepathy, and Willow has lipstick on her cheek. "No... not much I don't think."

A slide and a clang. The far gate opening. Who else could be coming to the party? Looks like just a couple of guards.... Oh, no–not yet! A glance at the clock confirms it. Five minutes left until our CV. Will they take us away early? I'm not ready! I need to say goodbye!

The guards stop and wait at the inner gate. I guess I'll still have my five minutes. The last moments I will spend with my friends for many years. Everyone sees the guards arrive and realizes the same thing. Xander turns the music down, and all of a sudden the day is ending. I hug everyone in turn, and some more tears are shed.

I stop to talk to Willow and Tara. "Red, while we're all here... do you have anything you'd like to announce?"

She shrugs and Tara smiles nervously.

"Come on, you two, if there's something to tell, your friends ought to know!"

Everyone's eyes are on the three of us. Willow shrugs again. "Yeah, we have a little news... Tara and me... we're..." Tara kisses her full on the lips and then backs away blushing. "We're that!" finishes Willow with a silly smile. Buffy rushes over to hug the witches, joined soon after by Dawn, and I propose a toast to the reunited couple.

"Thank you!" Tara whispers in my ear.

Tara quickly poses us for pictures of a few groupings she's not sure she got before. One of just Buffy and Willow. Some couples: one of Buffy and I with Xander and Anya, then one of Buffy and I with Willow and Tara–Anya at the camera. One of the Slayers and the Watcher. One of the Slayers and the vampires–with Buffy brandishing her stake and laughing. One of the old Scooby gang: Giles, Buffy, Willow, Xander, Angel... and me–although I'm not sure I really qualify. And lastly, a shot of the "normal humans with no powers." Just Giles and Xander, badly outnumbered by all of us supernatural freaks.

"Aren't we going to get to see one more big kiss?" Willow suggests, "With the inappropriate humping?"

Buffy looks offended. "There was no humping!"

She shrugs with raised eyebrows. "I call it like I see it, Buffy!"

I whisper in Red's ear. "I think you can start talking about 'inappropriate' when you learn not to go grabbing after people's boobs in public!"

Willow blushes and glances at Tara. If she thinks Dawn has told everyone about that by now, she's right! I personally overheard her tell Giles. And saw the frown as he tried to decide on a response.

Still, the kiss idea is not a bad one. I take Buffy's face in my hands and give her just a little taste of what lies in store for her tonight. We press close, but there is no humping. Well, hardly any.

We bow to the applause.

"Buffy is going to get so lucky tonight," muses Xander.

"Your luck is running out fast," replies Anya, "if you don't stop staring at Faith's dress. If you can even call it that."

Jangling of keys as the guards unlock the inner gate. This is it. The best party ever thrown was held in a jail for about fifty bucks. And it's over.

"Thanks again, everyone," I say, hurriedly, "this was the best wedding anyone ever had! I never thought when I went to prison... that the best day of my life would happen here! I love all you guys! Thanks, and–goodbye! Sort of."

"Yeah... thanks," says Buffy to her friends, "this was not how I pictured my wedding day. I imagined organs and bridesmaids and a white veil... and, well, a groom. But this has been so much better than I ever dreamed." She turns to the gate that's being opened, and takes my hand.

"Wait, one last photo!" Willow takes the camera from Tara. "One group we never got! Summers family, line up!" Buffy and Dawn stand together arm-in-arm.

"Faith! Hurry up!" Willow tugs me into place at Buffy's other arm.

"OK–I thought you said Summers family..." We smile as the flash goes off.

"Faith," says Buffy, "we got married today. I know it's a lot to remember!"

I return her smile, confused. Not sure what she means by that.

Willow holds up the picture, which is just starting to develop. Me and Buffy and Dawn. "The Summers family."

The guards lead Buffy and I away, and I return everyone's waves automatically, but I'm not really paying attention. I've just had a revelation that I can't quite wrap my brain around.

I, Faith Summers, am part of a family.

I never had one of those before.

 

Continued with "CV-9"

 

 

Notes: Buffy and Faith can't have a civil marriage with the full protection of state and federal laws. A very vocal minority in the U.S. feel that our two girls can't fall in love and make a lifetime commitment... and that minority is fighting to keep the law on their side. But the majority feels differently, and change is inevitable, however slowly it may be coming. Knowing the issues will help you know what to fight for and who to vote for. What is "religious marriage" vs. "civil marriage" vs. "civil union" vs. "domestic partnership?" What about "separate but equal" laws for homosexual couples? (Nice start, Vermont... but we all know where "separate but equal" got us last time!) MECA has lots of info on homosexual marriage, not only in California but in other areas as well.

 

I would be grateful if you would give me your comments and rate my stories in my Guestbook, or email me. Reader responses will determine whether I publish more stories, and will help improve them! Thanks for reading! (If you'd like to be notified when I post new stories, let me know.

FAQ: The details of the conjugal visit thing are completely imaginary, not from experience, and may be quite inaccurate. I have never actually had a conjugal visit with a Vampire Slayer. I would, however, certainly consider it. Incarcerated Slayers may inquire here.

If you enjoyed this story, try Witch's Faith. Feeling rejected by Tara and Buffy, Willow finds herself helping Faith get out of prison–and falling in love. When the dark Slayer's plots turn deadly, Willow must betray someone she loves. But who will she choose?

Faith walked out to Willow's car in a daze. She didn't truly believe this was happening until the prison gate closed behind them and they were on the open road. The afternoon sun turned to rain and it was the sweetest sound Faith had ever heard. She wished Willow would drive faster. A hundred miles an hour... two hundred! She was ready to slay–vampire after vampire turning to dust before her. And then she wanted sex... real sex, not a stranger's head between her legs in the bathroom, forcing orgasm quickly because privacy might end at any moment. Faith glanced curiously at Willow, wondering if the girl had ever had thoughts of homosexuality.

In the back seat, Faith found a bundle of lovely, wood stakes. The real thing! The Slayer took a stake in her hands. She caressed it, felt its perfect weight. Its solidity made the future suddenly solid as well. "Hey, Red... thanks."

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