I am re-reading and just have to remark on the wondefulness of this particular chapter.  The changes in Buffy are profound.   She is really trying and her eyes are open to the damage that was her fault alone. 

I mean, we’re supposed to be good people. We should be helping him come out into the light.

I've been saying that all along!!!  And, oh god, the terrible hope in his eyes...You're trying to kill me here, aren't you?  I'm supposed to be getting ready for work right now, but I can't, because I have to read the next chapter.  Evil!  Evil, evil, evil!!  Someone needs to put a chip in your brain!  Except...then you probably wouldn't write and that would be a real shame.  So, I'll just shake my finger at you again.  *shakes finger at author*  Naughty, naughty author!!!