Ok, so, I haven't read the comics and the Dowling bit was a little confusing at first 'cos I didn't know who he was, but you explained it later. I think the story is perfectly enjoyable if you haven't read the comics, although now it makes me worry about reading them - Spike leaves with Bug-people! Oh, Spike! {{shakes head}} Why can't Joss just let Spuffy be happy? Never happen, will it?

Anyway, back to this - lovely little story. Their bickering was perfect, both of their insecurities perfect, and the ending was, of course, perfect. :P Merry Christmas!

Author's Response: Thanks. I'm glad you liked it. And, yes, Joss (or the writers - it's not always clear whose ideas are being used) is not going to let us have Spuffy. But as long as we get Spike in the series, we can just go "la, la, la, la" and write whatever we want. :)

Thank you for the best Christmas present ever! Love the interaction between them, so scared, so fearful, so in love and finally happy!

Author's Response: I'm glad you enjoyed it. Merry Christmas. :)