"We need to talk," Xander's low growl came from behind him. The Guardians around them shifted at the arrival of the Original Vamp and at least one called someone.
Jonny drew a breath. He'd been expecting this confrontation with Xander for quite some time. He turned and squared his shoulders, not about to let Xander see how weak he was. "No, we don't," he said firmly. "You have no right to tell me I can't see Ash or she can't see me. Yes, she ended up dragged into something horrific and yes, much of what happened to her and Brandon could've been prevented, had I thought it wise to come to you. But I didn't, because we're fucking adults capable of making our own decisions in life. You taught me this, Xander, and I'm not about to back off this time, out of fear of what you'll do since I'm in love with Ashley and have been for four years! You, cabron, will not scare me off again!"
Amusement crossed Xander's features. "What I planned on telling you is I'll respect her choice. I couldn't give a shit about what you want, Jonny. But if she wants to be with you, then I'm okay with it. Jessi isn't," he added. "But I'll talk to her."
It took Jonny a moment to digest what Xander said. "You're seriously okay with this?"
"You just said it doesn't matter if I am or not."
"It doesn't. But … you are her family."
"And apparently, so are you."
As usual, Jonny sensed there was always more to Xander's motivations than what he revealed publicly. Some relief unfurled inside him to know he wasn't about to make an enemy of the most powerful immortal around by pursuing Ashley.
"Although it probably doesn't need to be said," Xander continued, "if you fuck up, Jonny, if she comes home crying or if she ever ends up here being brought back to life again, you will deal with Jessi first and then me."
Jonny snorted, expecting the warning. "I understand. Nothing like this will ever happen again. I swear it."
"That's a relief." The White God's voice materialized before he did. "You're forgetting she made Dusty a deal."
"She made me one first," Jonny retorted.
"I could definitely use someone with her skill set," Damian said.
"Or you could let her make up her own mind, when her life and that of her brother aren't in danger," Xander interjected.
Jonny and Damian gazed at one another. Jonny wasn't about to bend; he already knew where Ashley was going to end up. His discussion with Darian, however, made him think Damian was going to need an incentive not to press the issue.