"Beyond Forever"
Author: Ashlee
Contact: ashlee_999@hotmail.com
Notes: Angel doesn't have a soul and never came to Sunnydale. This story takes place at the beginning of season two.
"Bye, Kim!" Buffy called, waving good-bye to her friend outside the movie theater. "I'll see you next time I'm in town."
"Bye, Buffy!"
Buffy turned as the car turned a corner, closing her eyes as the warm night air seemed to wrap around her, calming her oversensitive need to patrol. She was supposed to be leaving for Sunnydale in the morning, and she couldn't wait to get back to Willow and Xander. Seeing her friends in Los Angeles was always nice for a day or two, but Buffy was rapidly tiring of the city. She missed the warmth and the comforting environment that Sunnydale seemed to provide.
Buffy began the long walk to her father's. She had insisted that she was perfectly safe, declining the ride that Kimberly had offered. Even though she wasn't on the Hellmouth, Buffy still felt like she was neglecting her patrolling duties and wanted to make a quick pass of the area as she walked.
"Sacred duty, yada yada," Buffy murmured as she wandered through the streets of L.A. After twenty minutes and no vampires in sight, Buffy headed in a more direct path to her father's.
The streets were surprisingly empty for such a beautiful night, and although the stars couldn't be seen in the cloudy sky, the moon shown through, bathing the area in a soft silver-blue tint.
Buffy's head snapped around at the noise behind her. She let her eyes focus in the darkened alley as she slowly turned, approaching the entrance to the alley before coming to a stop when two figures advanced on her. Buffy felt as if she was being stalked by predators, which was exactly what was happening, as she subtly reached for the stake tucked in the pocket of her lightweight jacket.
"Look at the merry little sunshine."
Buffy's brow furrowed as the sound of the dreamlike voice drifted toward her.
"She doesn't know what's coming," the woman continued, slowly stepping out of the shadows. Buffy stared at the beautiful woman, feeling on edge as she waited for some sort of attack. "She thinks she's the strong one... she has no idea what she's about to face."
"Why don't we drop the cryptic," Buffy said impatiently with a raised eyebrow. "I'm ready to go home."
While Buffy's attention was focused on the woman, she kept an eye on the other vampire, even though it was apparent that he was a fledgling.
"You're covered in power," the brunette said in a low voice. "Just a little girl."
Buffy sighed, rolling her eyes as she brought the stake out of her pocket. "Okay, I've had enough, and frankly... you're really starting to bore me."
Although she'd been expecting it, Buffy was still mildly surprised when the woman struck out at her. She narrowly avoided getting her throat slit by one of the razor-sharp fingernails as she threw herself backwards.
"Sunshine doesn't want to play," she said, advancing on Buffy once more.
"Oh, I'll play," Buffy replied, landing a solid kick to her ribs. She was expecting a retaliating blow, but nothing prepared her for the pain that sliced through her stomach, making her feel vulnerable as she doubled over in agony.
Standing up straight and ignoring the pain for the briefest of moments, Buffy let out a yell as she hurled the stake through the air, landing with a solid crack in the chest of the vampiress. Buffy watched, clutching her stomach, as the woman exploded into dust before turning her hardened eyes on the other vampire.
She felt relief flood through her as he turned and ran away, his footfalls descending into the night. Under normal circumstances, Buffy could have dispatched him with ease, but that was before the pain that seemed to lance through her body. Raising her shredded shirt, she looked at the damage that had been inflicted on her abdomen. A deep gash started underneath the swell of her left breast to carve diagonally to her right hip. Buffy pressed her shirt to the wounded area, applying pressure as she tried to stop the blood flow that seemed to be pooling out of her.
Buffy closed her eyes as she bit her lip, trying to will the pain to go away. She was definitely no match for anyone else tonight.
Spike looked up with a bored expression as one of his underlings practically came flying through the door of the warehouse.
"Master," the young man gasped, keeping a safe distance from Spike.
Spike took a step closer to him, narrowing his eyes. "You're supposed to be hunting with Drusilla."
"Sire... she... "
"Where is she?" Spike growled, closing in on him.
"She's dead, Sire."
Spike felt his body go rigid. "What do you mean, she's dead?" Spike asked through clenched teeth. "You were supposed to keep her safe."
"I'm sorry, Master. It was the Slayer... she was too strong. They fought, and the Slayer won."
Spike roared as he grabbed each side of the vampire's head, pulling it off with a sharp twist and letting the dust settle on the floor before turning flashing eyes to the rest of his minions. "Find out everything you can about the Slayer. No one gets near her," he commanded. "I will be the one to make the kill."
Buffy walked slowly, a specific goal in mind. She had arrived in Sunnydale a couple of days ago, and school would be starting the next day. She was already late meeting Xander and Willow at the Bronze, but she couldn't seem to help herself.
Coming to a stop underneath a tree, Buffy stared down at the simple dirt grave, lined with crosses. The Master was buried under there, and despite the fact that she had been the one to send him there, she still felt a chill race down her spine. He had killed her. He had marked her, and she hated it.
She stared at the grave a moment longer. To the casual observer, she might have looked like a woman trying to pay her respects or mourning a loved one. In actuality, tears streamed down her face because of the weak feeling that seemed to overpower her. She still wasn't at full strength because of the slash that ran across her ribs, but for some reason, the powerlessness came from thinking about the night she died.
The inadequacy she felt for herself was almost uncontrollable. She had barely patrolled all summer, not to give herself a break, but because she wasn't sure about her strengths anymore. Everyone had tried to tell her that The Master had been different. He had been cunning enough to survive as long as he had, and he obviously knew things that a sixteen year old wouldn't know. Buffy wasn't buying it.
Straightening her black dress, Buffy wrapped her arms around her body, turning and walking slowly in the direction of the Bronze. The night air was cool for this time of year and did its part to calm Buffy's nerves. She could see the alley leading to the club ahead and quickly dried her eyes, not wanting to worry her friends.
Hearing a noise, Buffy turned to see two vampires behind her. Going into fighting stance, Buffy realized her 'spidey sense' hadn't been working lately.
Easily staking the first vampire, the other one landed a solid kick to her stomach, causing Buffy to double over in pain as her wound protested. Gasping for breath, she stood, holding her stomach with one hand and delivering a solid right hook with the other. Grabbing a crate, Buffy threw it against the wall, splintering the wood as she grabbed her makeshift stake and plunged it into the second unbeating heart.
Panting, she slid down the brick wall, clutching at her stomach and trying to will the fresh pain to go away. Pulling her hand away, she looked at her skin, now stained red as the blood seeped through her dress.
"Damn it," she cried, letting her head fall back to the wall. She knew she would have to go in the club and clean herself up. If she walked home in this condition, the Slayer part of her blood would call to every vampire in the area.
Painfully pulling herself to her feet, Buffy turned and entered the Bronze, making her way to the bathroom as quickly as she could.
Golden eyes watched with interest as the Slayer practically collapsed onto the ground, clutching her stomach. The scent of blood filled his nostrils, calling to him as she pulled her hand away from her body. He could see her shaking, even from this distance as she cried out, throwing her head against the bricks.
Spike watched as she pulled herself up and walked into the club, letting his human visage come over him before following.
"Hey, guys," Buffy said with false cheerfulness as she approached her friends. "Sorry I'm late."
"Vampire?" Willow asked softly.
"Times two," Buffy replied.
"Are you okay, Buff?" Xander asked in concern.
"I'll be fine," Buffy said with a playful flip of her hair. "Let's dance," she said with a bright smile, pulling her friends to their feet and dragging them onto the dance floor.
Buffy was grateful for the darkened club. She had cleaned her wound as best she could, drying her dress, but she knew that she shouldn't stay long. Moving with the music was already aggravating it again.
Buffy sighed when a slow song began to play. "You two dance," she called to Willow and Xander over the music. "I'll go get a drink."
She caught the subtle smile that Willow gave her and smiled back before turning away. She made it about three steps before crashing into what felt like a wall as two strong hands grabbed her arms. Looking up, she stared into the clearest blue eyes she'd ever seen. They seemed to penetrate through her own as her lips parted in appreciation.
Spike stared at the girl. 'So, this is the Slayer,' he thought with a smirk as he looked at her closely for the first time. Her blonde hair fell to her shoulders in soft waves. Her skin seemed to glow, and her eyes flashed from hazel to a deeper green as she stared at him. Spike could smell the dried blood on her clothes, though the black material did a good job of camouflaging it. It seemed to beckon to him as he held onto her.
"Care to dance, pet?"
Buffy nearly melted, hearing the British accent that rolled over her in waves. "O-okay," she said softly, hating herself for the nervous stutter in her voice.
She felt her breath catch as his arms wrapped around her small waist, pulling her securely to his body as her hands slid up the black leather sleeves of his duster and loosely held onto his shoulders.
Buffy felt slightly insecure as his eyes seemed to study her. She found herself looking everywhere but at him.
Spike could feel the nervousness that flowed from her. He had to smile at the fact that the Slayer could face any number of demons and monsters, but faced with a simple dance with someone she assumed was a regular guy, she tensed up.
The couple moved together fluidly, as if they were made for each other. Spike found himself briefly losing sight of the reason he was in this town as he wondered how they would move together in a different setting.
Shaking himself free of the disturbing thoughts, Spike bent his head, angling himself so his lips were lightly brushing against her hair. "Why don't we step outside, luv," he whispered softly.
Buffy closed her eyes, swallowing hard as she felt her breathing becoming labored. She didn't trust her voice as she nodded. Turning away, she could feel his hand on the small of her back as he led her toward the exit. Buffy smiled at Willow who gave her a curious look before she returned the smile, mouthing 'call me' to Buffy.
Spike led the Slayer into the darkened alley, advancing on her as she backed into the wall.
"Now, pet," he whispered, his lips coming closer to hers but never making contact. "You should know better than going outside with a strange man."
"I can handle myself," Buffy replied, her nerves setting her slightly on edge at the tone of his voice.
"I have no doubt," he said with a smirk.
Spike slowly bent forward, bypassing her mouth as his lips found her neck and left a soft kiss close to the jugular. He was only testing her, and she was failing miserably. He would have thought the Slayer that was able to kill the Master wouldn't be this susceptible, even if he was a master vampire in his own right.
Deciding to up the stakes, Spike let his demon flash across his face for the briefest of seconds, smiling when she gasped, shoving him away from her.
Spike chuckled as he stopped himself a few paces away, watching as she moved from the wall. "So, you're the Slayer," he commented with a smirk. "Tiny little thing, aren't you?" Spike stared at her as she seemed to tense up even more. "Don't worry, luv. If I wanted to kill you tonight, you'd already be dead. I plan on fighting to the death, not killing you before you knew what happened." Buffy shivered at the tone of his voice before he continued. "You should be more careful. I wouldn't want you to meet an untimely death... unless it's at my hands, of course."
"Who are you?" she asked softly.
Spike smiled, biting his bottom lip as he narrowed his eyes on her. "Why do you want to know? So you can go running to your Watcher and have him research everything about me? You're probably better off not knowing, luv. But," he added in a lighter tone as he tore his eyes away and began pacing in front of her. "If you must know... the name's Spike."
"So you have some sort of death wish?" she asked, feeling her Slayer side becoming more confident.
"Only for your death," he replied in a dangerous tone, turning his cold eyes on her. "Until then... good night, Slayer."
Buffy watched as he disappeared down the alley, her body shaking from the power that he exuded.
"Stay away from him, Buffy," Giles said. "He's the most dangerous monster you've ever come in contact with."
Buffy sat silently in the library, staring at her Watcher. She had edited some of the events of the previous night, filling Giles in on the new vampire in town. Giles had then discovered that Spike was William the Bloody, and he'd been on edge ever since.
"So, Buffy can't beat this guy?" Xander asked, sitting on one of the tables.
"I never said that," Giles replied, taking off his glasses as he slowly paced the area. "It would just be best to know more about him before jumping into something that she may or may not be able to handle. Just be careful, Buffy."
Five minutes later, Buffy, Willow, and Xander were all walking off the school campus, each with a worried expression.
"Did you know he was a vampire?" Willow asked as Buffy clutched a book more firmly to her chest.
"No," Buffy said softly. "I think having the summer off has seriously fried some of my Slayer senses. I didn't know he was a vamp until he got close to my neck."
"He got close to your neck!?" Xander cried.
"Geez, Xand, relax. I thought he was Mr. Joe Normal... plus an uncanny sexual magnetism," Buffy added with a secret smile to Willow.
"Whoa, whoa, whoa," Xander said, shaking his head. "Buff, he's a vampire. The thing you're supposed to fight. You shouldn't be checking this guy out."
Willow and Buffy both rolled their eyes. "Get a grip, Xander. I thought he was human," Buffy said with a shrug. "It's not like I get guys who are interested in me on a daily basis."
Buffy realized her mistake the moment the words were out of her mouth. She closed her eyes briefly, forgetting all about her rejection of Xander at the end of the previous school year.
"But the guy who is interested in you isn't good enough."
Buffy sighed, hanging her head slightly. "I never said you weren't good enough," Buffy replied quietly, trying to take into consideration that Willow still had a huge crush on him. She felt worse for the redhead than she did for Xander right now, considering he had a great girl in front of him that he just failed to notice.
"Yeah," Xander said with a disbelieving nod. "I'll see you later."
Buffy and Willow watched as he walked away.
"Don't feel bad, Buffy," Willow said, putting an arm around her friend's shoulders. "It's not your fault that you don't feel that way about him."
"I just wish he'd understand," Buffy said sadly.
Buffy hopped onto a tombstone, twirling a stake in her hand as she looked into the shadows that the trees and mausoleums were casting over the area. She was only making a symbolic effort to patrol, still trying to let her stomach heal, but she felt guilty if she didn't stay out for at least an hour. After all, even if she was injured, there was nobody else out to fight the undead tonight.
"Slacking off on the job, are you, Slayer?"
The voice permeated the air, causing Buffy's head to snap around to seek out the distinct British accent. She was immediately on her feet. Suddenly wishing she had taken Giles up on his offer to go with her tonight. He wouldn't have been able to help, of course, but it would have been nice having a little support thrown her way. Especially since the vampire in question suddenly seemed much more imposing now that she knew her Watcher didn't want her to face him.
"What do you want, Spike?" Buffy asked in a much stronger voice than she expected as he stepped out of the shadows and walked toward her.
Spike raised an eyebrow at her, smirking, as he tilted his head to one side. "Feeling a little more confident tonight, Slayer?"
"I was confident last night," she replied with her own raised eyebrow.
"Really?" Spike asked with a small smile as he took a few steps closer to her. "Even when you were doubled over in pain and bleeding in an alley?"
Buffy's eyes widened, her mouth dropping open slightly as she realized he'd been watching her the night before. "You set me up. You had those vamps attack me. What were you doing? Studying me?" she asked in disbelief.
"Looking for a weakness," he replied, taking the final step toward her and smiling again as she refused to back away. "And guess what, pet?"
Buffy stared at him through cold eyes as she waited for him to continue.
Spike leaned forward, hiding his shock that she would let him get this close to her neck as she stood completely still. His lips almost brushed over her hair as he whispered to her, "I found one."
Buffy gasped when she felt his fist hit her in the stomach. Just as she had the night before, her body folded over, trying to shield herself from the pain that was exploding in her body before quickly righting herself and throwing a strong left hook, feeling satisfied when she felt the solid connection with his face.
Spike reeled back, catching himself a few paces away as his hand went up to his jaw, chuckling as his eyes stayed trained on her. "What's the matter, luv?"
"For starters, don't call me 'luv'," Buffy said, gritting her teeth together.
"What should I call you then?" he asked with a smirk. "Sweetheart... Goldilocks... or do you just prefer 'Buffy'?"
Buffy's eyes widened as he said her name. "I... I never told you... "
"Your name?" he finished for her, walking around her like a predator. "I think you'll find that I know a lot more about you than you'd expect."
Buffy gulped as she suddenly felt short of breath. She hated herself for the fear that was racing through her veins, but this man seemed to exude power and strength. She wasn't sure if she'd met her equal or if he was more than that. And she was beginning to feel nervous if it was the latter of the two.
"What do you want?" Buffy asked with a tremor in her voice.
"I thought we covered this last night, Goldilocks... I came to town for one purpose."
"You want me dead," Buffy said softly, not knowing why there was a twinge of sadness that seemed to go through her as she remembered his words to her. "Is it just because I'm the Slayer?"
"I have my reasons."
This time, as Spike advanced on her, Buffy felt the smartest thing to do would be to get away from him. She knew she couldn't run. She was already sore from the cheap shot that he had surprised her with, and he would probably enjoy chasing her more than anything. She wasn't about to give him the satisfaction of seeing her run away.
Buffy gasped as she felt the cold stone against her back. Glancing to her left, while still keeping an eye on Spike, she saw that she had backed herself into the wall of a crypt. Her eyes briefly closed when his hands slammed against the hard surface, one on each side of her head, as he stared at her.
Buffy tensed, preparing to get away from him, as he slipped his hands further down the wall to trap her more effectively. "Don't even try it, Slayer," he whispered. "You'd be dead before you took a step."
"So, I'm supposed to just stand here and let you kill me?" she asked, sarcasm running through her words.
Spike leaned forward, staying where she could see his eyes but breathing out unneeded air so she knew just how far he was from her jugular.
Buffy tensed, tightening her jaw and feeling her body go rigid as she waited for the pain.
"Who said I was going to kill you tonight?" he whispered, taking another step and pressing his body against hers.
Buffy felt her heartbeat begin to race, her breathing becoming labored, as his head dipped down to her neck, running his lips over the tender skin he encountered.
"What are you doing?" she whispered, feeling her body react to having this man so close.
Spike smiled against her skin as the scent of her arousal filled the air. The smile slowly disappeared as he realized he shouldn't be having a similar reaction to the Slayer. Especially since this particular Slayer had killed the woman he loved.
Buffy sensed his hesitation and realized she could get out of this. But did she want to?
'Of course you do,' she inwardly scolded herself. 'Evil thing, remember? You're not supposed to have cuddly feelings for a soulless demon. Especially one that might drain you in less than a minute.'
Buffy let her hands slowly trail along the sleeves of his duster, smiling when she felt the uncertainty flood through his body at her actions. He slowly pulled back to stare into her eyes, seeing the vivid colors dancing through them as her hands slowly came to his chest, slipping beneath the duster and stroking the strong muscles that lay beneath the thin fabric of his shirt.
Spike felt himself begin to take more unneeded breaths as she maintained eye contact. His arms slowly relaxed, and Buffy saw her opportunity to get away, but she couldn't break free of him yet.
There was something about him that seemed to draw her in, and she couldn't bring herself to tear her gaze from the cerulean depths that seemed to hold her in place.
Taking a deep breath, Buffy tore her eyes away from his as she landed a solid kick to his legs, knocking him off his feet. Buffy broke away, distancing herself until she felt safe as Spike jumped up with a growl, turning yellow eyes to her.
"You shouldn't have done that, Slayer."
"You shouldn't have come here," she replied in a strong voice.
Spike's human features slipped back into place as he leveled her with a cold gaze. "You'll wish that soon enough," he said in a soft, menacing tone. "Until then."
He seemed to disappear in a split-second. Buffy waited until she couldn't feel his presence anymore before she let the trembling take over her body.
"So he just let you go?" Willow asked as she and Buffy left school the next day.
"I don't know what happened," Buffy replied in confusion. "It was like... something just came over both of us, and it was just a natural reaction being that close to each other. But that's wrong!" Buffy cried, spinning around to face her friend. "Xander was right. I'm supposed to kill him, not start developing feelings for him. It's scary, Wills," she finished in a soft voice, looking at the ground.
"Maybe it's supposed to be this way," Willow said softly.
"What do you mean?"
"Well... vampires are supposed to be drawn to you, right? Slayer blood or essence or something like that?"
"What are you getting at, Wills?"
"Maybe you're supposed to be drawn to them."
"I've always been drawn to them... just not sexually."
"Sexually?"
"I-I meant physically," Buffy rushed to cover her slip.
"But you said 'sexually,'" Willow replied with a bright smile. "Come on, Buffy, I saw the guy. Not very well, but from what I could tell, he was a supreme hottie."
"Willow!"
"What? I'm not allowed to look at other guys?" she asked with a fading smile. "It's not like the guy I want to be with ever notices me."
Buffy wrapped a comforting arm around her friend. "It'll happen, Willow."
"You're more sure of it than I am," Willow said sadly.
"Bye, Mom, I'll be home by midnight," Buffy called as she walked out of her house. The rest of the week had flown by with no further sightings of the bleached blonde menace, and Buffy was off for a fun-filled night with her friends. Buffy wasn't sure if she should be grateful for that or worried that he was plotting something. And although she hated to admit it, she was a little disappointed.
Buffy was so lost in thought she never even picked up on the feeling of being watched.
Spike stood in the shadows, lazily smoking a cigarette, as he watched the Slayer walk through the darkened streets, wearing a short skirt and an almost nonexistent top. So far, she hadn't picked up on his presence, and he was hoping to keep it that way for the time being. He'd spent several nights not seeking her out, hoping to dissuade the disturbing feelings that he seemed to be developing for the young girl.
He had convinced himself that she was just a worthy opponent. He was willing to live with that explanation as long as they didn't have another night of sexual tension running rampant.
Buffy happily made it into the Bronze, waving at Willow and Xander as she made her way through the crowd.
"Hi, guys!" Buffy yelled over the music.
"Hey, Buffster, what's up?" Xander replied. Buffy was relieved that he seemed to have gotten over their disagreement earlier in the week. He'd been distant to Buffy since that day, and she was hoping that things wouldn't stay so strained between the two of them.
"No vamps tonight?" Willow asked, taking a sip of her drink.
"Nope, but I'm looking forward to some wonderful post-Bronze slayage time," Buffy said with a smile.
"Hi."
Buffy turned around and smiled at the man behind her. "Hi, yourself," she replied, giving him a flirty smile.
"I'm Tom, I'm a senior at UCSunnydale," he said, holding out his hand.
Buffy shook his hand. "I'm Buffy, and I'm a junior at Sunnydale High," she said with a laugh as she shook his hand.
"High school, huh?" he replied, trying to make small talk. "That's a drag."
"It's not so bad," Buffy replied with a shrug.
"Would you... like to dance?" he asked with a shy quality that he knew girls found endearing.
Buffy glanced at her friends. Xander was busy shooting Tom death glares while Willow was nodding at Buffy encouragingly. "Sure," Buffy answered with a nod.
Spike watched from the balcony, feeling his demon flash to the surface as the Slayer openly flirted with some ponce. He didn't even want to think about the jealous feelings that were coursing through him. He simply focused on the sudden need to feel the man's life slip away from him... or the Slayer's.
Buffy laughed with Tom as they finished a second dance. She didn't feel the fire that she'd felt when Spike was dancing with her, but she attributed that to the fact that subconsciously his undead status was setting off her radar, giving her the tingly feelings she'd felt.
"Listen, there's a party at my house tomorrow night... would you care to go with me?" Tom asked.
"Your house?"
"Yeah, I'm in a fraternity. The Zeta Kappa's. It's our annual... well, it's our annual 'It's The Weekend, Let's Throw A Party' party."
Buffy laughed at the description before nodding her acceptance. "I'd love to go."
"Great, do you want me to pick you up or-"
"No, that's okay," Buffy replied, shaking her head. "I can walk."
"In this town? After dark? That's too dangerous, Buffy, I'll just pick you up."
"No, really, it's-"
"I insist."
Buffy finally relented, giving him her address and arranging a time to pick her up.
"I'll see you tomorrow," Tom said with a smile, giving her a kiss on the cheek before leaving the club.
Buffy was practically beaming as she walked back to the table. Not because of the man she'd made a date with, but because of the fact that she had actually made a date. She was doing something that a normal girl her age was supposed to do.
Spike paced restlessly through the alley next to the Bronze. He didn't know why seeing the Slayer so happy was bothering him so much. It didn't take him long to track down the Gap Ad and break his neck, but even that didn't satisfy his thirst for violence. Something was definitely wrong.
The next night, Buffy paced through her living room, wringing her hands nervously. Tom was over a half an hour late, and Buffy had nothing to do but stare at the clock and feel the rejection slowly settling in. She was too restless to focus on the TV, and her mom was working late.
With a sigh, Buffy walked out onto the front porch to wait outside. Wrapping her arms around her body as she tried to ward off the chill in the air, Buffy felt tears come to her eyes as she looked up and down the road. Wandering over to the porch swing, Buffy sat down, dropping her head into her hands.
"You should have known better, Summers," she said to herself. "He was just being nice, there was no way a high school guy wants you, much less a college senior. You're just a naïve little girl."
Buffy ran her hands through her hair, smoothing down the curls as she leaned back into the swing, swallowing the lump in her throat.
Spike watched from the shadows of the house as Buffy walked outside, hugging her body as she stared down the street. He got a little closer as she sat in the swing and couldn't help the frown that came over his features when he heard her comment to herself that she wasn't good enough.
He stared at her for a moment longer, letting himself enjoy the way the black silk dress clung to her curves, exposing her long legs and bare arms.
Spike took a few more steps toward her and felt a strange sense of pride when her head shot up, scanning the darkness. He was happy that she knew he was there, but he wasn't sure why, and he really didn't want to analyze his feelings about being proud of the Slayer.
Buffy stood up, slowly walking down the porch steps as her eyes adjusted to the night. Spike waited until her back was to him before coming to stand behind her. Buffy whirled around, swallowing a gasp at having him so close.
"What's the matter, luv? Not happy to see me?" he asked with a smile, biting his bottom lip as he looked her up and down.
"Something like that," Buffy replied, realizing how stupid she was for coming outside without a stake. But it wasn't like vampires followed her home on a regular basis. The normal ones tended to avoid her.
"How did you find me?"
"This wonderful thing called the telephone book. It seems your address is listed."
Buffy glared at the man, crossing her arms over her chest, causing Spike's eyes to drift to her exposed cleavage with a secretive smile.
"College boy stand you up?"
"That's none of your business, and how did you know I had a date tonight?"
"I told you, luv. I know more about you than you realize. And that dress is a dead giveaway."
"And you just assume he was in college?" Her eyes widened. "Did you do something to him?
Spike shrugged, reaching into the pocket of his duster for his cigarettes and lazily lighting one. Buffy stared at him in shock for a moment, surprised that he would do something with such relaxed ease in front of the Slayer.
'Relax, Summers,' she thought. 'He never said he killed Tom and... why are you suddenly doubting that you can kill him? Vampire... Slayer. It's supposed to be cut and dry.'
"That's not exactly fair, is it?" she asked with a raised eyebrow, trying to get her mind off her thoughts. "Shouldn't I know something about you?"
"Are you flirting with me, Summers?" he asked with a smirk, exhaling the smoke from his dead lungs.
Buffy's eyes widened at the implication. "Me?" she asked, gesturing to herself. "Flirt with you? I'm not that desperate."
Spike's eyes narrowed as he stared at her before taking a step closer and flicking the cigarette away. Buffy felt her breath catch as she took a step back, trying to keep her distance from the imposing vampire.
"You might not be that desperate, Slayer," Spike said in a menacing voice. "But it doesn't change what you want."
"And what's that?" Buffy asked, wishing she was closer to the house and hating the breathless quality of her voice.
Spike reached out, grabbing her arms and roughly pulling her against his body, not allowing any space to come between them.
"Me," he whispered, letting his head descend to her neck.
Buffy tensed before breaking his hold and shoving him away, nearly losing her balance in the process. "Get a grip," she said angrily. "Like you're God's gift."
"Hardly," Spike replied with a chuckle. "But it wouldn't be nearly as interesting, would it?"
Buffy bravely turned her back on him, only serving to fuel Spike's rage. It was as if she was telling him that he was no threat to her, and that was the last thing she should be thinking. He took several long strides to stand behind her, and before she knew what was going on, she felt his hands on her shoulders, seconds before she was thrown into the railing on the porch.
Buffy spun around with a sharp kick, sending Spike flying several feet away. Her hand came up to her forehead, feeling the blood trickling down her face and through her fingers as she fought the dizzying sensations.
Spike's demon came forth as he advanced on her with a low rumbling in his chest. "Don't turn your back on me, Slayer," he whispered in a deadly tone. "I like a fair fight, but I'm not above taking some cheap shots every now and then. Especially when a foolish little girl like you, doesn't recognize a real threat when it hits her in the face."
"Fight?" Buffy asked with a sharp, forced laugh. "You fight? Because all you've managed to do is talk my ear off."
Spike left his demon in place as he advanced on her, watching as Buffy stood her ground. "Do you really want to fight me tonight, Slayer?" he said softly. "Because judging from that head wound, I'm guessing you wouldn't be of much use in that department." Spike took a step back, letting his eyes rake over her body. "Although, you could definitely have your uses in other areas."
Buffy never backed down from anything, but the danger of the situation was becoming very clear as she looked into his yellow eyes.
"Leave," she said softly, but the threat was evident.
Spike slipped back into his human face as he stared at her with a smirk. "I'll leave," he replied. "But I'll be seeing you soon."
Buffy took a deep breath as he began to walk away. "The next time we meet... you die."
Spike turned around with a raised eyebrow. "I'm guessing your Watcher didn't tell you."
"Tell me... what?" she asked nervously.
Spike chuckled as he shook his head. "You'd think he would want his Slayer prepared for what she was about to face. No matter, it's always fun bragging about my conquests."
"What are you talking about?"
"Many people have tried to kill me, luv," he said with a smirk. "Including two Slayers who lived long before you were called... and I'm still here."
Buffy's eyes widened at the implications of what he was saying.
"Not feeling as confident, Slayer?" Spike asked with a smirk before turning and walking away, calling over his shoulder as he left. "You shouldn't."
Buffy walked through the cemetery later that week, gritting her teeth when she felt his familiar presence.
"You know, this whole stalking thing really isn't that appealing," she said, knowing he was standing behind her. Turning around, Buffy glared at the blonde vampire. "If you want to fight, let's fight. If not... leave me alone."
"I find it interesting, Slayer, that you don't seem very eager to fight me. Aren't you supposed to attack my kind and ask questions later?" Spike asked with a smirk.
"Is that the way you want to do it?" she asked, raising an eyebrow.
Spike chuckled, his mind choosing a double meaning for her statement. "I'll do it anyway you want to, luv."
"So, do you stalk everyone like this, or am I the only special one?" Buffy asked, crossing her arms across her chest.
Spike's smile faded as he narrowed his eyes on her. "You're the only special one, Slayer," he replied in a low tone, reminding himself that this girl was the reason his dark princess was no longer with him.
"Lucky me," she said wryly. "What's the agenda for tonight?"
Spike wrapped his arms around his body as he sauntered over to her, looking her up and down as he walked. "Tonight... we fight."
Before the words were out of his mouth, Buffy doubled over in pain as Spike's fist hit her in the stomach. Luckily, the slash along her ribs had closed again, but it was still tender. She gasped for air as his knee connected with her face.
Buffy flew back, landing on the soft grass as stars seemed to dance in front of her eyes. She could see Spike drop to his knees in front of her, his fangs bared as he came toward her. Buffy gripped the stake until she could feel blood dripping from her hand as the wood bit into her skin. She gasped for breath as Spike came closer, but all she could see through the pain was a blurry figure.
Deciding she better do something before it was too late, Buffy thrust the stake toward Spike, rolling away as he roared in pain. She knew that she missed his heart, but she definitely got his shoulder, causing him enough pain that she could roll away from him. Scrambling to her feet, Buffy began to run, not caring what direction she was going in as long as she got away. She could hear him behind her as she suddenly spun around and was able to deliver a powerful backhand to his jaw.
Buffy's vision began to clear as the pain receded, but she felt the panic overwhelm her as Spike's strong arms gripped her, throwing her into the side of a mausoleum before spinning her around and brutally holding her against the cold stone.
Buffy felt tears come to her eyes.
'It's all come down to this,' she thought, refusing to let the tears fall. 'Sixteen years old, and my life is over... and I feel relief.'
Buffy felt Spike's movements slow down, but her eyes were squeezed shut, bracing herself against the inevitable pain that she was about to go through. Bracing herself for the release. She could feel him as he got closer to her, his fangs slowly grazing her neck. She prepared herself for her final moments, for the blow that would rip her life from her body. Buffy squirmed in his grasp, giving one last effort to get away but knowing it was useless. She was too weak from the powerful blows he had delivered only a moment ago.
"Don't turn me," she whispered, opening her eyes as he pulled back to look at her. "Just don't turn me."
"I thought you would have been a better fight than this, Slayer."
"You were the one who said you're not above taking cheap shots... you did. I wasn't ready. You win."
Spike's demon slipped away as he stared at the young girl with cold blue eyes. He couldn't figure it out. He had the Slayer in his arms, and he hadn't killed her yet. With the first two, he had taken the first opportunity to go in for the kill, not hesitating to drain one dry or break the other's neck. Now, here he was almost taking a step back as he looked at her. And he had more motivation for killing this one, yet he couldn't bring himself to do it.
"You have a death wish."
Buffy stared at him for a long moment before averting her eyes, not wanting to answer. Spike's grip loosened on her arms, bracing himself against the wall of the crypt as he looked at her.
"What are you doing?" she asked in a soft voice.
"Are you ready to die?"
The question was spoken in such a soft manner, Buffy couldn't decipher the meaning behind it. "Are you ready to kill me?" she asked.
"That's not what I was asking. Do you want to die?"
Buffy looked into his clear blue eyes, understanding the meaning behind his words. "If it's not you, it will be something else," she whispered with a slight shrug. "Why prolong the inevitable?"
This answer seemed to anger Spike as he stared at her. "I thought you were better than this," he replied in a low tone. "You're just giving up. A nice clean death, and then you're done, is that it?"
"What do you know!?" she yelled angrily. "You're going to live forever! The only threat to you and your kind is me. One of me versus thousands upon thousands of vampires. What's the point? I can never make a difference." Buffy looked down at the ground, not knowing why she was opening up to this stranger. This stranger who wanted her dead. "Four months ago, I didn't want to die," she whispered, raising her eyes to his and surprised to see the compassion in them. "The Master killed me, and I wanted nothing more than to be able to live. Now I'm alive, and I just want it to end... I want it over. I'm supposed to go on and graduate and fight and work and fight some more? I just want it over. I want peace."
Spike stared at her for a long moment. Not thinking about anything other than his own needs, his body pressed against her smaller one as his lips crushed hers. Buffy gasped into his mouth, allowing Spike's tongue to slip in and duel with hers.
She had never been kissed this way. She'd never felt powerless to something so simple as his lips touching hers, his hands wrapping around her waist. Wanting to forget who she was, even if it was for just this brief moment, Buffy's arms reached up to wrap around his neck, pulling him closer as the kiss deepened. She didn't want to think, she didn't want to worry, she just wanted to feel. She didn't want to stop and analyze the fact that this soulless creature was awakening more desire and passion in her than she had ever felt in her short life.
Breaking away after a moment, Spike's eyes snapped open as he realized what he had just done. With a low growl, he pushed her away before disappearing into the night. Buffy watched him go, more confused than she had ever been. She didn't know why she had allowed the kiss to continue. She didn't know where the feelings had come from. And she didn't know why she wanted to follow him. She just knew it could never happen again.
It had been a month since that fateful night that had changed her life. Buffy didn't know what happened that night, but she had regained the will to live... to fight. She didn't know if it was because she had come so close to actually dying or because she was able to tell someone how she felt. At any rate, she felt cured.
However, there was something that was still bothering her. Yes, it had been a month since that night, and she hadn't seen or heard from Spike in that time. She was beginning to think he had been a figment of her imagination. That she had simply conjured him up to help her deal with her death at the beginning of the summer, and then he'd just evaporated into thin air. Of course, she knew if she really believed that, she'd been living on the Hellmouth too long.
She was happily taking the night off and spending it with her friends at The Bronze.
"Um... Buffy," Willow said with a strange look as she looked over Buffy's shoulder at something in the distance. "There's some guy who keeps looking over here- it's like he knows you or something."
Buffy felt her stomach flip, though she wasn't sure if it was in fear or anticipation of it being him. She slowly turned in her seat, scanning the crowd for the somewhat familiar bleached hair but not seeing him.
Instead, her eyes focused on a familiar face that she hadn't seen in years. "Oh my God," she murmured as she made eye contact with him. Buffy stared in shock as the brunette made his way over to her, smiling when he came closer.
"Ford?" she asked softly when he reached the table.
"It's me, Summers," he said with a grin.
"I can't believe it," Buffy cried with a smile as she practically threw herself into his arms. "What are you doing here?"
"Looking for you, actually," Ford replied, casting a look over Buffy's shoulder at her two friends.
"Oh, I'm sorry," Buffy said, spinning around with a smile as she took Ford's hand in hers. "This is Billy Fordham, he was my best friend at Hemery. Ford, these are my friends, Willow and Xander."
The group exchanged pleasantries as Buffy felt her gaze being pulled to the balcony of the club. She swallowed hard at the sight of the ice blue eyes that seemed to be looking right through her.
'So, he wasn't a figment of my imagination,' Buffy thought, repressing a smile before she had to repress a shiver. Turning back to her friends and never letting go of Ford's hand, Buffy informed them that it was time to go. She wanted to talk to Ford, but she couldn't risk leaving two of her best friends alone with Spike in the nearby vicinity. He might want to send a message her way via dead body, and she didn't want to take that chance.
As Willow and Xander stood and began gathering their things, Buffy hazarded another look up at the balcony and frowned when she didn't see him anymore. That could only mean that he was around and watching her from a different location. She wasn't naïve enough to believe that he had simply walked away. His demon would practically get off on stalking her, hunting her without her knowledge.
The group walked out of the club, with Buffy keeping a close eye on the shadows.
"Ford, you said you were looking for me," Buffy said, trying to make conversation as her mind went elsewhere.
"Yeah," Ford replied. "It's actually more of a private thing," he said in a low voice as Buffy nodded.
"Okay," Buffy replied as they all continued to make small talk. Buffy took a more roundabout way of getting home, wanting to make sure Willow and Xander made it safely inside their houses before turning her full attention to her oldest friend.
"Where are you staying?" she asked, trying to make it sound like a form of small talk and not a way to get him back safely.
"The Sunnydale Inn," he replied.
"Great! That's on my way home," Buffy replied cheerfully. 'Or about two miles out of the way, but I patrol more than that every night.'
She, of course, didn't voice her thoughts. She didn't want him thinking that he should be the gentleman and make sure she got safely home, but she wasn't about to let that happen.
"So... you said you wanted to talk to me," she said with a soft smile, encouraging him to tell her what was on his mind.
Ford took a deep breath, knowing he could no longer prolong the inevitable. "I think it's best that I just come out and say it," he said, the melancholy evident in his voice. "I'm dying, Summers," he said softly.
Buffy froze at the admission, coming to a complete stop as her friend turned to face her. "What do you mean?" she asked quietly.
Ford looked down at the ground before raising his eyes to hers. "Nest of tumors," he said softly as he began walking.
Buffy gasped for air as she stared at him. "But... you're so young," she said softly, the disbelief evident in her voice as she fought back the tears in her eyes. "You're only sixteen."
Ford tightened his lips, trying his best to smile. "I don't think there's an age discrimination," he said in a quiet tone.
"And there's nothing... "
"No," he replied, shaking his head. "We've tried everything. There's nothing else."
Buffy let silent tears stream down her cheeks as they continued walking in silence. They stood outside the rundown Inn sooner than Buffy expected.
"Do you want me to walk you home?" Ford asked softly.
Buffy shook her head, hugging her arms around herself as she stared into space. "No... you should get inside, I'll be fine."
Ford nodded, turning toward the Inn before apparently coming to a decision and spinning around to face Buffy again.
Buffy gasped when she felt his lips slide across hers in a soft kiss. Ford pulled away, offering her a shy smile as he stepped back. "That was actually the reason I decided to come and find you," he said with a glint in his eyes. "I've been wanting to do that for years." Buffy blushed, grateful for the silvery moonlight that hid it from his view. "I'm not in town very long, Summers, but I just had to see you."
"I'm glad," Buffy said quietly, smiling at Ford as he turned and walked toward his room. "Ford!" she called, watching as he turned around. "I've been wanting you to do that for years," she said with a smile.
Ford chuckled, offering her a wave as he entered his room.
Neither noticed the yellow eyes that were watching the display.
Buffy decided to forego patrolling that night, opting to go home and get some rest. She walked into her house with tears still streaming down her face after hearing Ford's news of his impending death. He had seemed so calm about it. Buffy knew that feeling. The idea that you had to be strong because there was no option to be anything else but strong. She couldn't pity him. He would hate that.
It made her reflect on her own life as Buffy walked upstairs to her bedroom. She changed out of her Bronzing clothes and pulled on some jeans and a white tank top. It was still early- her mom wasn't even home from spending the evening out with her friends, but Buffy didn't feel like doing anything.
She stared into her mirror, looking at the girl she once was and the woman she had become. They seemed to be combined within her. Her face was still sixteen, but her eyes showed everything. All of the horrors that the world knew nothing about that she was supposed to protect it from. The knowledge of what it felt like to have your life pulled from your body, only to be revived and end up stronger in the long run.
"Sixteen years old, and you're already a jaded and cynical person," she murmured to herself, looking at her reflection as she ran her hands through her hair. "Unable to trust, unable to be optimistic about anything in this world. You could be out there patrolling right now and kill ten vampires, only to have twenty rise in their place."
Buffy let her face drop into her hands as the annoying little voice in her head reminded her that she should be out there patrolling for that very reason.
With a sigh, Buffy turned away from the mirror and nearly jumped out of her skin when she saw Spike sitting at her window. She momentarily looked back and forth from him to the mirror before remembering that a vampire casts no reflection.
Buffy slowly walked toward the window, flipping the lock and sliding it open as he watched her with interest.
"Gonna come out and play, Slayer?" he asked with a smirk as Buffy crossed her arms defiantly over her chest.
"With you?" Buffy asked, raising an eyebrow at him. "Not likely. What do you want?" Buffy asked, keeping a careful eye on him.
"Now, Slayer, if I didn't know any better, I'd say you weren't happy to see me," Spike said with a grin. His tone suddenly turned very serious as he looked at her. "Why not invite me in, pet?" he asked in a deadly tone.
Buffy actually laughed at the request. "You have got to be kidding me," she said, trying to control her giggles as Spike watched her through narrowed eyes. "You actually expect me to give you an all-access pass to my house? I don't think so."
"Then come outside," he replied in a challenging tone.
"No," Buffy said forcefully.
Spike stared at her long and hard for a moment before a slow smile crept onto his face. "Alright, if that's the way you want it."
Buffy raised an eyebrow as he seemed to back down so readily.
"Maybe," he continued in a slow drawl. "I'll just wait for your mum to get home."
Buffy's eyes widened, her breath catching at what he was saying. "No," she said, shaking her head. "I'll know when she gets here, and I'll be able to protect her."
Spike chuckled as he looked at her defiant face. "Well, pet, you won't know where I'll be."
"What are you talking about?" Buffy asked, a suspicious note creeping its way into her voice.
"You won't know if I'm here waiting on your mum or if I've gone off to kill your newfound best friend."
Buffy's heart caught in her throat as he watched her reaction. "Leave him alone," she said with fire in her eyes.
"Oooh, touched a nerve, did I? Well, I'll be off then," he said, turning away to jump off the roof.
"Wait," Buffy said softly, seconds before he jumped.
Spike turned halfway around, looking at her out of the corner of his eye.
"I'll come out there," Buffy murmured, grabbing a long sweater and pulling it around her before hesitantly stepping outside.
She refused to react when she found herself thrown against the side of the house, expecting nothing else from the temperamental demon.
Spike's human mask was still in place as he held her firmly by the arms, looking into her defiant face. "What's the matter, luv? Don't feel like playing tonight?" he asked with a smirk.
Buffy didn't answer as they each leveled the other with a strong gaze.
"You seem overly confident tonight," she remarked after a minute, suppressing a smile at the confusion that clouded his eyes.
"And why shouldn't I be?" he asked, never backing away from her.
"Because I'm the Slayer," Buffy replied in a soft but powerful voice. "And you seem to keep forgetting that."
Buffy knew her words would be misinterpreted as a precursor to a fight, so she had to smile slightly when she felt Spike's hands tighten on her since she had no intention of throwing the first punch.
Spike felt himself involuntarily breathe as his head angled opposite hers. Buffy couldn't figure out if he was studying her or preparing to kiss her. She hated herself for hoping it was the latter of the two.
"Are you scared of me, luv?" he asked quietly, his eyes burning into hers.
"Should I be?" she challenged, never breaking eye contact.
Spike's jaw tightened as he watched her. "I could kill you right now," he whispered menacingly.
"Then why don't you?" Buffy no longer had her death wish, but she seemed to subconsciously know that Spike wouldn't actually try to kill her... tonight, anyway.
"You still wanting to die, pet?" he asked, raising an eyebrow.
"What answer do you want to hear?"
Spike was getting sick of her answering a question with a question. His fingers itched to wrap around her neck and squeeze the life out of her, but something was holding him back. And that made him more frustrated than he had ever been in his life.
He had an underlying respect for this tiny scrap of a girl. She had survived around him longer than the other two Slayers combined. Although, they hadn't really had a fight to the death, either.
Buffy sighed. She really wasn't in the right mindset to fight right now, but if he was wanting one, she would give as good as she got. "I came out here... now will you leave my friends and family alone?"
Spike tilted his head thoughtfully. She could have easily had a stake hidden on her and tried to dust him from inside the house. She had shown guts by coming outside, facing a Master vampire, while she was unarmed. "You're willing to take the word of a vampire?" he asked with a smirk.
Her expression stayed serious as she watched him. "No," she said softly. "I'm willing to take your word."
Spike's eyes widened at the implications of the simple statement. He stayed quiet for a moment, dropping his gaze as he desperately wished for a cigarette. "Tonight," he murmured, still looking at the roof. "Only for tonight."
Spike raised his eyes to Buffy, trying to gauge her reaction. She didn't seem surprised, no matter which answer she was expecting. "Tonight is something," she said softly, looking into his eyes. "What do you want from me, Spike?"
The question seemed to take him off-guard as his eyes roamed her face before sliding down her body. He could see the soft curves where her sweater parted, revealing the thin fabric of her tank top to his gaze.
Spike's eyes strayed lower until his hands loosened their grip. He was prepared for the Slayer to rush him and try and knock him off the roof, but she merely stayed where she was.
His hands, of their own volition, traveled down her arms and came to rest on her waist. Buffy seemed to tense slightly but held his gaze as they slipped under the fabric to touch her warm skin. Buffy flinched slightly but stayed where she was, her curiosity obviously getting the best of her as his fingertips ghosted over her sensitive flesh.
Spike noticed her flinch when he touched an area that didn't feel like the rest of her skin. His left hand grazed lightly over her right hip, his brow furrowing at the different texture. Buffy pulled away slightly, more from embarrassment than anything else.
"As I thought," he said with a raised eyebrow. "Some nasty thing got a taste of you."
"Something like that," Buffy murmured, focusing her eyes on something over his shoulder as Spike studied her.
"What happened?" he asked, hating himself for caring.
Buffy raised her shirt slightly, showing him the thin scar that left a white line of scar tissue on the golden skin of her stomach. Spike reached out, letting his fingers run over what he could see of the scar as he raised an eyebrow. "You should have had that stitched up, luv."
"I don't like hospitals," Buffy replied before meeting his eyes with hers. "And why do you care?"
Spike didn't have an answer for that. "How did it happen?"
"I met a vamp in Los Angeles at the end of the summer," Buffy said quietly. "She was rambling on about sunshine and a bunch of other things, and I just... I wasn't ready for it."
Spike's body went rigid as he listened to her story. "What did she look like?"
"Pretty," Buffy murmured. "Long, dark hair. She seemed older... probably older than you."
"And you dusted her," he commented softly.
"Yeah," she said softly, avoiding his eyes. "It's... what I had to do."
Spike noticed that she didn't say, 'It's what I do.'
"It was either her or me," Buffy continued, looking up at him.
Spike backed away from the Slayer, avoiding her eyes as he came to the edge of the roof. "Is that it?" Buffy asked with a raised eyebrow. "You just wanted to stop by for a visit?"
Buffy noticed his distracted look before he turned around and jumped off the roof, landing with a soft thump on the grass below. She watched his duster swirling as he hurriedly made his way down the street.
Spike realized he was involuntarily breathing as he walked. He didn't know what was upsetting him more- the fact that Buffy had spoken so openly about killing Drusilla, even though she didn't know that's why Spike came to Sunnydale, or the fact that Dru had injured Buffy, to the point of scarring the young girl, and that had conjured up more feelings for the Slayer than the death of the woman he'd loved for a century.
Buffy and Willow laughed as they walked into the Bronze on Halloween, searching for Xander in the crowd. Finally spotting him, they waved as they crossed the club.
"Come on, Wills, just take off the sheet."
"It's not a sheet- I'm a ghost."
"And you looked awesome the way you were," Buffy said with a soft smile. "I think Xander would notice it, too."
"Whoa, Buffy!" Xander exclaimed, his eyes widening as the girls approached. "Looking good."
"Thanks, you do, too, Xand," Buffy replied with a smile, appraising his army-man costume while shooting obvious glances at Willow.
"And Wills... nice sheet."
"I'm a ghost," Willow said, stomping her foot.
"I think she looks good."
Everyone turned at the voice, and Buffy smiled and gave Ford a hug. "Zorro, huh?" she said with a smile as Ford drew the sword and swiped it through the air, striking a pose.
The girls laughed while Xander glared at the other man.
"I thought you would be leaving," Buffy said, looking at Ford.
"I actually came to say good-bye," Ford replied. "I thought I'd have some fun dressing up."
Buffy quickly enveloped him in another hug. "Make sure you call me," she said in a serious tone.
"I will, Summers," Ford replied, giving her a kiss on the cheek.
Buffy gave him a smile, trying to fight back tears as she pasted a smile on her face. "Well," she began, her voice filled with false enthusiasm. "I'm parched, I'll be back."
Spike stared at her from across the dance floor as she sauntered up to the bar, swaying her hips beneath the short skirt. He'd grown painfully hard when she'd walked into the club, and it hadn't diminished in the amount of time he'd been trying to make it go away. He stared at her lithe body, barely concealed beneath the tight shirt. Her black bra was clearly visible beneath the button-down shirt that remained unbuttoned and tied above her navel. The tiny sweater that was over her shirt was barely large enough to fit her, much less conceal anything from the numerous prying eyes that were roaming her body, Spike's included. The outfit was topped off with knee socks, Mary Janes, and braided pigtails, portraying what Spike considered to be the perfect Catholic school girl.
He had to smile at the advances she was receiving from the males of the club, only to brush them all off and order her drink, although he hadn't been happy to see her friend kiss her on the cheek.
Spike made his way across the floor, coming to stand directly behind her, biting his lip as he admired the view that was provided from being so close to her. He saw her shoulders tense when she realized he was behind her and found himself wondering if she thought it was a random vampire or if she was tuned into knowing when it was distinctly him.
Spike took a step forward, letting a finger trail along her exposed midriff as he leaned close to whisper in her ear. "Love the outfit, Slayer. You should wear it more often."
Buffy turned around, ready with a quick retort, but it just as quickly died as she stared at him. The duster and all black ensemble was gone. In its place was a pair of very tight blue jeans and a black leather vest covered in safety pins, leaving his muscular arms and chest open to her view.
Buffy felt her mouth go dry as she took in his spiked hair and the dark outlines around his eyes, making them appear an even deeper shade of blue than usual.
"I could say the same," she replied with a smirk, deciding she wouldn't mind playing this game as she leaned against the bar, giving him a good look at her body.
Spike smiled at her flirty behavior, enjoying the view he was giving her and witnessing the jealous stares that other men were sending their way.
"I thought creatures of the undead variety took the night off on Halloween."
"Most do," Spike replied with a raised eyebrow. "But most don't get to see you in this getup either."
Buffy gave him a coy smile, turning to accept her drink from the bartender before facing Spike again with a smirk. "Be good tonight. It's my night off, too, and I wouldn't want to have to come find you just because you get hungry."
"Maybe you could give me a little taste," Spike said with his own smirk. "Slayer's blood would fill me up for days."
Buffy gave him a patented look as she turned to walk away. "In your dreams, bleach boy," she called over her shoulder.
Spike admired her as she walked back to her friends, chuckling to himself. 'She should have nights off more often if that's the result,' he thought with a grin as he ordered a shot from the bartender.
Buffy tried to keep an eye on Spike, but he was frequently disappearing on her. Ford, Xander, and Willow were having fun discussing something. The topic of which, Buffy didn't have a clue. She excused herself, wanting to check on the vampire. It was her night off, but her duty was pretty clear, and if Spike was snacking tonight, she would have to do something about it.
Buffy was surprised when she looked out on the dance floor and saw him wrapped in the arms of a redheaded woman Buffy had never seen before. A streak of jealousy shot through her, surprising her at the feeling of seeing him dancing with someone was causing her. Albeit, dancing rather intimately.
"Care to dance?"
Buffy turned at the sound of the voice, smiling when she saw Cameron Walker beside her. "I'd love to," she said with more conviction than she felt.
Cameron immediately wrapped his arms around her, pulling Buffy much closer than she felt comfortable with. At least until she looked up and saw the jealousy flare in Spike's eyes as he watched her.
Buffy decided two could play at this game as she pressed herself against Cameron, moving seductively with him as the music played.
Spike clenched his jaw, restraining himself from walking over and breaking the boy's neck. He knew it would cause more attention than he was willing to bring to himself tonight. He also knew that the Slayer would never let him get away with it, but it was still enraging to him as she swayed her hips to the music, pressing her body against the other boy. Spike was completely ignoring the advances of the woman in his arms as he watched Buffy bite her lip in faux shyness as she batted her eyelashes.
Spike was far beyond the point where he'd had enough. He was outraged. As far as he was concerned, she was his Slayer. He didn't even stop to ponder that thought as he pushed the woman away, stalking across the dance floor and grabbing Buffy's arm. "You're leaving," he growled as Buffy smiled at him.
"Is this guy bothering you?" Cameron asked her.
Spike raised an eyebrow at Buffy, letting her know what would happen to the boy. "No," Buffy replied, maintaining eye contact with Spike as she shook her head. "I'm fine. Thanks for the dance, Cameron."
Buffy motioned to her friends that she was alright as she was practically dragged out of the club. Spike angrily pulled her into the alley, rounding the corner into a secluded alley and pushing her against the bricks.
"What the hell is wrong with you?" Buffy asked, narrowing her eyes.
Spike didn't answer, his lips crashing down on hers in a vicious kiss, each battling for dominance as his body pushed her into the side of the building. Spike's tongue slipped into her mouth, battling with hers as his hands wandered down her body, settling on her hips before boosting her up and wrapping her legs around his waist.
Buffy moaned into his mouth as the kiss grew more passionate, the brutality turning to need as Spike pushed against her. Buffy pushed back with equal strength, gasping at the feel of his body against hers.
It was all Spike could do to keep his demon in check. Now wasn't the time for it to come out and play. Buffy's hands slid up his body to fist in his hair as her mouth broke away from his, her body arching against him.
Spike's lips kissed along her jaw-line before sliding down her throat. Buffy tensed when she realized how dangerous this was. He could easily kill her at any moment, and she was practically begging for him to bite her.
Straightening her legs, Spike gave her a confused look as he dropped her to the ground, watching her chest heaving as their eyes clashed.
Spike raised an eyebrow at her as Buffy began to back away before grabbing her arm and throwing her into the brick wall, pinning her in on either side. Buffy felt a brief sense of fear but quickly squashed it down as she looked into his stormy eyes. "I know you felt it," Spike said in a low tone. "You can't deny there's something between us."
"There is," Buffy agreed before pushing him away. "I'm just not sure if I want to know what it is."
Buffy decided to skip patrolling the next night, wanting to stay in and have a night to herself. More importantly- a night away from Spike. She was terrified she would run into him again. But she wasn't scared of the demon... she was scared of the man. He made her feel things she didn't know she could feel, and Buffy was coming dangerously close to giving him anything he wanted. That feeling of helplessness was the scariest thing she'd ever experienced- and she'd faced a lot of scary things.
Buffy was just settling down on the couch for a long night of "Gone with the Wind" when she heard a soft knock on the door. With a sigh, Buffy tossed the chenille blanket away from her and slowly walked over to the door.
Her eyes adjusted to the dark porch before widening slightly when she saw him bathed in the shadows before she crossed her arms over her chest. "What the hell do you want now?"
"Language," Spike said, shaking his head and clucking his tongue as his hands braced the doorframe. "You should work on that, Slayer."
Buffy narrowed her eyes as he looked her up and down, taking in the white satin pajamas.
"I've gotta admit, luv," he said with a smirk. "I liked the Catholic schoolgirl look, but this is sexy enough in its own right."
Buffy glared at him as he tilted his head, giving her a soft, almost endearing smile. "Why don't you invite me in, pet?" he asked in a husky voice.
"Do I even need to dignify that with a response?"
"Come on, baby," he murmured, pouring his charm into those three little words. "We could have some fun."
Buffy felt her breathing accelerate and knew from the look in his eye that he knew how much his presence was affecting her. "But we're not going to," Buffy said in a voice that didn't sound like her own.
"Come outside then," Spike said with a tilt of his head.
"So you can try and kill me?"
"I promise to be a good boy," he replied with a smile before arching one eyebrow. "That is... unless you want me to be bad."
Buffy felt her thighs involuntarily clench together at the unfamiliar tingling she felt. His body was practically calling to hers as she took a step forward, making sure to stay inside the barrier.
"Where's your mum?"
Buffy snapped out of her trance. "Why do you want to know?"
"Relax, I just wanted to see if we were alone," Spike said, suddenly turning serious, keeping the malice out of his voice. "Come outside."
Buffy looked around the comfort of her home before looking at the barrier. "Don't come near me," she said in a strong voice. "This porch is made of wood- I'll find something to use if I need to."
"I didn't come here to fight, Slayer."
Buffy took a deep breath before stepping outside, making sure to leave the door open. "What do you want?" she asked, staying on alert but keeping her arms wrapped protectively around her.
"That's what I was going to ask you," Spike replied in a husky voice.
Buffy felt her heart speed up, and seeing the smile that crossed Spike's face, he noticed it, too.
"What if I said I want you dead?"
"Don't lie to yourself," Spike said with a smile. "You and I both know what you want."
"Leave town, Spike," Buffy said in a more forceful tone than she expected.
Spike took a casual step toward her, seeing her body tense, seconds before he grabbed her around the waist and pinned her to the side of the house. His grip loosened as soon as he got her to the destination of his choice. Buffy relaxed slightly, seeing that he was still in his human guise.
"Is that really what you want?" he whispered as Buffy nervously licked her lips.
Spike watched her tongue sweep across her lips, fighting the urge to taste her... in any way that he could.
"Why are you here?" Buffy whispered. "Why are you doing this?"
"I'm here for you," Spike said softly, brushing the hair off her shoulders, and Buffy tensed, fearing that he was brushing it away from her neck.
"You're here to kill me?"
"I don't know," he said honestly as Buffy's eyes shot up to his.
"What do you mean?"
Spike didn't answer as his lips tenderly brushed against hers, seeking out their softness and warmth.
Buffy wrapped her arms around his neck, pulling him closer to her as his hands wrapped around her waist, grinding his hardening erection against her. She moaned, her tongue slipping into his mouth as Spike lifted her up. Buffy gasped when she felt him sit down on the porch swing, surprised that he would voluntarily give her this much control.
Her hands eagerly ran across his body, tightening on his biceps, feeling the hard muscles beneath the leather. Spike slowly began skimming along her body before tenderly sliding underneath the satin fabric of her top, feeling a thrill run through him when he encountered the smooth skin. He felt himself grow painfully hard when he realized she wasn't wearing anything beneath the flimsy top. Breaking away from her lips, Spike looked at her through lust-filled eyes, gasping for air that he didn't need.
Buffy breathed heavily, staring down at him as his hands continued exploring her body. She tensed when they slid around to her stomach, feeling the flat muscles before traveling upward. Buffy felt her heartbeat skyrocket as Spike's lips met hers in a soft kiss, seconds before his cool hands brushed across the tender skin of her breasts. She gasped into his mouth when he gently pinched her nipples, rolling them slightly and letting them go. Her hands clutched at his strong shoulders as her hips grinded into his, eliciting a growl from him.
Spike pushed against her, pulling her closer to him. When they finally separated, Buffy gasped for air as they stared at each other. Buffy could barely see him in the darkness, but Spike let his eyes flash yellow as he looked at her. He took in her flushed face and heaving chest, feeling a sense of pride wash over him.
"Don't start anything you don't plan on finishing, luv," he whispered.
Buffy gulped, climbing out of his lap and began pacing the porch. Spike leaned forward, propping his elbows on his knees as he watched her.
"What's wrong?"
"I shouldn't be doing this," Buffy murmured, practically talking to herself as she ran her hands through her hair. "You're a vampire."
"You got that memo a long time ago," Spike replied, standing up and grabbing her arms to stop her and face him. "This isn't exactly normal conduct for me either. If it gets out that I'm getting this close to the Slayer... "
Spike trailed off when he saw the hurt look in her eyes, and it was really starting to piss him off that he cared if he was hurting her feelings.
"How do you feel about me?" Buffy asked, biting her lip in anticipation.
Spike stared into her eyes for a moment before coming to a decision. "Meet me tomorrow night," he said softly.
Buffy's eyes widened. "For what?"
Spike raised an eyebrow before leaving a gentle kiss on her lips.
Buffy took a deep shaky breath as they pulled away from each other. "Where do I meet you?"
Buffy nervously fidgeted with her coat as she approached the warehouse. Her stomach was tied in knots and had been since the night before.
It had taken more than four hours for her to get the nerve to approach this side of town. Now that she was here, Buffy was having serious doubts.
"What am I doing here?" she mumbled to herself, staring at the imposing building. "You know what he's expecting- you should be going the other way."
Strange how her feet were carrying her even closer to the destination. Buffy nervously slipped into the building, letting her eyes adjust to the darkened interior. Taking a deep breath, she slowly began walking further into the building.
Spike watched her from the shadows. The anger he was feeling with her for being so late had dissipated when he'd seen her. He took in the jeans, turtleneck, and long, cream-colored coat that fell to her knees. Spike smiled, realizing she was trying to overcompensate by covering nearly every inch of her body. Little did she know that it just made him want her even more.
Buffy tensed when she felt his presence, turning in a full circle, trying to catch a glimpse of him.
"Where are you?" she asked in a shaky voice.
"Scared, Slayer?" Buffy's head snapped to the direction of his voice, but he was already gone.
"So this is just a game to you?" she asked.
"Maybe," Spike replied.
Buffy felt the anger start to bubble in her chest as she turned and headed for the door.
"I don't feel like playing," she called over her shoulder.
Before she reached the door, Buffy swallowed a gasp as she felt her shoulders seized in a strong grip. She tensed but stayed where she was when she felt his hands brush the hair away from her shoulders.
Wrapping his arms around her waist, Spike pulled her toward him until his growing arousal was firmly pressed against her lower back.
"Scared, Slayer?" he asked again, the difference in his tone sending a shiver racing down her spine.
"Should I be?" she asked in a breathy voice.
Spike slowly turned her around in his arms, unbuttoning the coat and letting it fall to the floor. It was then that Buffy noticed he was standing in front of her in nothing but a pair of tight black jeans. Her mouth practically watered as she took in the chiseled muscles of his chest and abs. Biting her lip, Buffy tentatively reached out, tracing her fingernails along his torso.
"You're late," Spike murmured, his eyes riveted to her. Buffy turned her eyes to his, feeling a charge run through her body as they looked at each other.
"I'm here now," she replied, her voice taking on a soft quality.
Buffy could barely make out his features as the sky turned a blue-gray, waiting for sunrise. The faint light spilled through the high windows, never putting the vampire in danger, but enough for her to see her surroundings. Her breathing escalated when she saw the mattress on the floor behind him, covered in red satin sheets.
Spike heard the change in her heartbeat and turned around to see what she was looking at. A smirk overtook his features when he realized what she had seen the bed.
Knowing he would have to be careful around the skittish young girl, Spike loosely grasped her hand in his and led her over to it.
"Spike... I don't know if I can do this," she whispered when his other hand slipped under her shirt and caressed the soft skin. Buffy slowly began to relax, biting her lip when he pushed it over her stomach, his eyes meeting hers as they almost asked for permission. Buffy swallowed hard before raising her arms above her head, feeling self-conscious when he removed the turtleneck, leaving her in a white lace bra.
A low growl rumbled in his chest as his hands went to the button of her jeans. He paused when he felt her tense.
'Right,' Spike thought to himself. 'She's a virgin... have to go slower than usual.'
He let his hands wander in soothing motions over her stomach and around to her back, pulling the young girl close to his body before leaving a passionate kiss on her lips. Buffy broke away after a moment, gasping for air and feeling overwhelmed by the intensity of her feelings as Spike turned them, with Buffy's back to the bed.
Pushing her jeans over her hips, Spike let them slide down her legs, kissing along her jaw to keep her relaxed.
"Sit down on the bed, luv," he murmured, pulling back to look into her eyes. Buffy bit her lip but did as he said. Spike knelt in front of her, pulling off her boots and socks before letting her pants fall to the floor. He stared at her for a long moment, taking in the sexy yet innocent scrap of white lace that covered her.
Taking a deep unneeded breath, he noticed her flushed skin as she watched him watching her. After a moment, Buffy's hand went to the sheet, attempting to cover herself before Spike stopped her.
"You're beautiful," he whispered, pushing her back on the bed and following her, covering her body with his own.
"Spike?" she whispered, her voice filled with uncertainty.
"Shh, pet," Spike murmured, letting his lips brush along her shoulder, down to her chest. "I'll make you feel good... I promise."
Buffy's breath caught in her throat as he slowly removed her bra, letting it fall to the floor. She tensed when he caught her hands before they could cover her breasts, holding them in a strong grip as his lips caressed the tender skin. She trembled when he slid down her body, quickly removing her panties before she had a chance to protest.
"What are you doing?" she asked, clenching her strong thighs together when he started to settle in between them.
"I'm about to make you feel good," Spike whispered, running his hands along her legs until she started to relax.
Buffy took a deep breath, allowing him to part her legs seconds before she felt his tongue slide along her opening. Her body nearly arched off of the bed, her hands fisting in the sheets.
"Easy, kitten," he murmured. "We're just getting started."
Spike's tongue lightly teased her, smiling at the rush of moisture that pooled out from his actions. He eagerly lapped it up, craving more as Buffy's head thrashed around on the pillows. Her breathy moans were getting him even more worked up as he let his tongue take on a swirling motion, causing her to writhe beneath him. Buffy thought she would pass out from the pleasure he was giving her. He gently swiped at her before speeding up and practically attacking her mound.
Buffy nearly cried out when he broke away to trail light kisses along her thighs as he slipped out of his jeans.
"You taste incredible," he said in a low, rumbling voice that sent shivers through her body. Her body unconsciously arched toward him, craving the friction as he slowly swiped at her clit, narrowly avoiding it with each movement of his tongue.
"Spike," she said in a pleading voice, her hands fisting in his hair.
"God, I could do this all night," he said, his hands gripping her butt to pull her closer to his face. Buffy gasped, her muscles tensing when his wet tongue traced over her again. She could feel her orgasm building, a knot making itself known in the pit of her stomach as he lavished attention on her aching flesh.
Spike let his tongue bathe over her before plunging inside. Buffy felt her body begin to hum with pleasure and practically exploded when his mouth latched onto her clit, nipping and sucking on it until he felt the wetness gushing between her legs. She screamed out in ecstasy, holding his face to her as he continued the suction, throwing her into a second orgasm, more powerful than the first.
Not giving her time to recover, Spike moved up her body and swiftly plunged into her in one thrust, tearing through her virginity and imbedding himself inside her, trying to ignore the scent of blood that seemed to fill the room.
Buffy's body tensed at the pain, automatically trying to withdraw from the source, but Spike easily pushed her into the mattress, rocking his hips against hers. She gasped when pain subsided and pleasure took over. His mouth met hers, and she moaned at the taste of herself on his tongue.
Pulling away, Spike looked into her eyes, seeing them clouded with lust and pain. "I'll make it better, luv," he whispered as his hips moved against hers. "You'll see... you'll feel so good... and I... oh shit," he moaned, burying his face against her shoulder as he tried to hold off his orgasm.
"What is it?" Buffy asked nervously. "Did I do something wrong?"
"You're so bloody tight, Slayer," he gasped, pulling halfway out to slide back in with ease.
"Buffy," she whispered, causing his eyes to raise to hers.
"What?"
"Call me Buffy tonight," she said softly, her hips lifting slightly to let him penetrate even deeper.
"Buffy," he whispered sending thrills shooting through her when his lips met hers in a tender kiss, sucking her bottom lip into his mouth and pushing into her with more force. "Do you trust me, Buffy?" he asked a moment later.
"You know I do," she said without thinking, her back arching her against him. Spike's hand slid up, putting gentle pressure on her breast and giving it a light squeeze as Buffy braced her feet against the bed, changing their angle and letting him get even deeper as she sought more contact.
"Fuck," Spike groaned, losing control as he pounded into her welcoming body, his hand snaking around to hold onto her, keeping her as close as possible.
Buffy gasped as the thrusts became more forceful. She could feel the fire inside of her, reaching to inferno levels as he kept ramming into her. Uncaring that she would be bruised in the morning, Buffy eagerly met his thrusts.
"Love being inside of you," Spike rasped. "Could stay here forever." Buffy felt her eyes roll shut at his words, her fingernails clawing at his back, seeking her release, unknowingly leaving deep scratches along his skin. Spike could smell the scent of his blood mixing with hers and closed his eyes as he lost all coherent thought.
"Oh God, Spike... yes... like that... " Buffy trailed off with a scream, her inner muscles clenching him in a tight hold as he lost control, spilling himself inside of her. Before Buffy could come down from the pleasure she was feeling, her eyes snapped open when she felt his fangs plunge into her neck. She tried to scream, but it came out a choked sob as he viciously tore at her skin, taking deep pulls of her blood. "No," she said in a soft voice, using what little strength she had to try and push him away. Tears spilled down her cheeks as she found her voice. "Spike... please, don't do this!" she sobbed, using all of her strength and pushing him away.
Spike landed on the floor as Buffy frantically tried to fight the dizzy feelings, shakily getting to her feet as tears continued to fall. Her hand went up to her neck before she pulled it back and gasped when she saw that it was entirely covered in blood. She began backing toward the door as Spike shook his head, trying to clear it.
"How could you?" she asked in a choked whisper.
The brutality of the moment came back to him as the demon receded. Spike's eyes widened when he took in her small, naked form backing away from him. The scent of her fear seemed to flood the room, and Spike had to fight his demon for control.
His mouth dropped open when he noticed the deathly pale tint of her skin, marred by the crimson flow of blood, seeping from the ragged bite mark on her neck.
"Buffy," he whispered, getting to his feet, swallowing as he looked at the damage he'd inflicted on her without realizing it. He made his way toward her as she grabbed her coat off the floor, pulling it around her body and clutching at the front of it.
"Don't come near me," she said as her tears continued.
Spike could feel the power flowing through his veins from the intoxicating Slayer's blood as he quickly approached. Buffy fearfully jumped away, throwing the door open and standing in the first rays of sunlight as he growled low in his throat, frustrated that she was so close and he couldn't reach her.
"Buffy, listen-"
"No!" she said, shaking her head as she braced herself against the doorframe. "I trusted you and... I trusted you," she repeated in a different tone. "That was my first mistake. Don't come near me again."
Spike was about to respond when she stepped outside, trying to get as far away from him as possible. Spike gritted his teeth together before turning to stare at the bed. The same bed they had occupied moments before. The building still reeked of lust and blood and fear.
'Her fear,' Spike thought to himself, closing his eyes for a brief moment before yelling out in frustration and breaking anything he could get his hands on.