Not sure I'm liking Spike's attitude about the baby. It's her choice. It feels like a Riley-esque ultimatum. Leaves a bitter taste in my mouth.

That said, I understand where he's coming from, and I admire him for standing up for himself. Your Spike is not as much of a bitch to love as his vampire counterpart.

Brilliant use of The Wasteland through this story, by the way.

Author's Response: I think it would be different if he were her boyfriend giving her an ultimatum rather than what they are at this point. They're sort of ex-lovers, she's already rejected him and then is asking this favor above and beyond. I agree though, he's not selfless like the character in the show began. He's a man at the end of his rope, and he's done some awful things in this story. He also ran after her and was unable to break that connection between them when he tells her to get out of his sight, though. I don't know if I entirely believe him when he tells her he's done. Thank you for the wonderful compliments!