The Mourners
Had this in my head a few days, though I can't say seeing The Hours this afternoon didn't affect it. Unspoiled, unless you've heard no casting news about the finale (which I don't necessarily believe til I see it anyway).
“I’m gonna go.” Xander headed towards the living room exit and paused, turning back towards the two men on the sofa. “It’s weird, you know? The last two days, back in my apartment...she moved out a year ago, and everywhere I turn, I see her. I guess it’s knowing I’ll never see her again.” His eyes swept the room, then started to mist again with tears, as he headed for the front door.
“Kid’s hurting,” Angel said.
“We’re all hurtin’.” Spike took a swig from his bottle and handed it back to Angel. “Member that time, Dru got pulled away by the mob, you’n me got her back just before they pulled her apart? Thought I’d lost her for good.” He reached out and took the bottle back. “Loved Dru more’n I thought I’d ever love anyone. Weren’t nothing compared to this.”
“Haven’t you had enough of that?” Angel reached for the bottle, and Spike reluctantly gave it to him. The older vampire downed a hearty swig, then handed it back. “Maybe not.”
“Drink to numb the pain. Doesn’t work.” He slumped forward, his forehead resting on his crossed arms. “Still don’t believe it. Can’t be true. She can’t be gone. Not again.”
Angel took another swallow. “I know.”
“Saw her when I had the ring. Sunlight shining off her hair. Glorious.”
“I remember.” When Spike looked up, his eyebrow raised, Angel added, “Long story.” He handed the bottle back again. “She was the first woman I ever loved.”
“I know.” Spike’s eyes clouded with pain. “And you were her first.”
“And you were her last.” Angel stood up from the couch. “I’d better get home, if I want to be back by sunrise.”
“You have someone to get back to.”
Angel nodded. “It’s been a hell of a year. Cordy and I have a lot to do to make things right. But she’s been through hell, and I owe her enough to try.”
Spike looked up at his former enemy. “If you love her, don’t waste time.”
The nod was almost imperceptible. “Say goodbye to the others.” In a moment he was gone. Spike sat alone in the empty room. He closed his eyes and saw her face. Heard her words. ‘I love you.’ Blinked back the tears.
He didn’t even notice the young woman sitting beside him, until she rested her head on his shoulder. “Xander gone?”
“Yeah. Angel too. Said goodbye.” He took her hand in his. “Nibblet?”
“Finally went to sleep. Oh, God, Spike. I can’t believe we buried her twice.”
“No coming back this time.” Their hands shook together, and they hung on tighter to each other. “Kennedy?”
“She said she couldn’t handle it. Figured Faith could take over now. Guess she went back to her parents.” Her voice broke, and she started to sob. “I want her back.”
“I’m sorry. Thought you two would make a go...”
“Not her.” The room was almost silent as they sat together, the clock on the mantelpiece tick, tick, ticking away the hours.