Arizona
 Chapter 10-12


Written by: Jypzrose
Author's Website





Summary: Druscilla followed Angel into hell. Buffy did leave, but never went back to Sunnydale, due to an unforeseen circumstance of that day. Now known as Anne, she lives in a small town, outside of Tombstone, Arizona working as a stripper. Spike finds her. What secrets does she have to tell, and can they get beyond the pain of the past to start a future together?
Spoilers: Through the end of Season 2
Disclaimer: If I owned any of it, Buffy and Spike would be together, minus chip AND soul. All characters belong to Joss, except Mark, he is a creation of my own mind, and I intend to keep him! So there.
Distribution: Here and at Libidinous Desires, anywhere else, email me first, jypzrose@aol.com
Author's Notes: Special thanks- to my beta suzy, you are the best, and kumi, for without her, you would not be able to read this. Love you gals.
Feedback: jypzrose@aol.com




Chapter 10

"And, I've been here ever since." Anne finished, risking a look at his face. He had sat quietly while she talked, his eyes trained on her face, his hand drawing light circles on her arm. He was surprised that she had used his name, and it touched him. And, Xander had better pray that they didn't meet face to face any time soon. He wouldn't be held accountable for his actions.

"What were you afraid of?" He asked, twirling a strand of hair over his finger. She sighed heavily, sinking deeper into the curve of his arm.

"What wasn't I afraid of?" She replied. "I think the biggest thing I was afraid of was fucking up. Again. I was given this gift. . .I won't lie to you, when I first found out that I was pregnant, I was terrified. I spent the first month, crying. I was the Slayer, pregnant by a vampire. A soulless vampire to boot." She felt his arm tense around her, and she reached for his hand. He wanted to know, he was going to have to hear it without freaking. "But, after the first sonogram, and I saw the little blip in the screen, I was amazed. This little life, was ours. It was you and me, and for whatever reason, the Powers, God, the Fates, I dunno, gave it to us. I didn't want anything bad to touch it. Xander showing up and sprouting off his prejudice, no matter how grounded, just made it all real. If that was his reaction, then what would my mother's or Giles' be? I was even afraid of what Willow would say, and out of them all, she was the only one supportive of me and Angel." He frowned at the mention of his sire, and involuntary image of Dru popping into his head. "As much as I loved them, I didn't trust them with my son," she said, guilt and shame lacing though her words.

"Your mum's never seen him?" She shook her head, shifting so she looked at him fully.

"I've sent pictures. A month after Matt was born, Mark talked me into it." Again, Mark. Spike was having a hard time controlling the jealousy that threatened to choke him.

"How come you and Mark never. . .?" he trailed off, leaving it open.

"How come we never got together?" Her hazel eyes searched his face, a soft smile touching her lips. His expression was a cross between fear, jealousy, and a deep vulnerability that she had never known was there. "Maybe I was waiting for something," she whispered, shifting again until she was sitting on her knees, her torso pressed against his side. Their faces were close, her hand splayed against his chest. His arm slid around her waist, the implication of her words making his eyes darken to sapphire.

"What might that have been?" he whispered back. Their mouths hovered, inches from each other, their breathing quickened. He could hear her heart race, smell the blood speeding through her veins. His own reaction to her heat, her very essence, pressing tight against his jeans.

"You," she gasped, finally closing the distance between them. This time, the kiss was different. They played instead of plundered, teased instead of tempted. Even though they had kissed before, this was the first done out of feeling, not physical reaction. And that made it sweeter, more intense. When they pulled back, they were clinging tightly to each other, tears of lost time sliding down their cheeks.

"I'm not gong anywhere, Buffy," he told her quietly. "A stake through the heart is the only thing that will take me from you and Matt." He ran a thumb over her cheek, wiping the moisture away.

"Promise?" Her voice was small, her eyes hopeful.

"Promise." Their mouths touched again, gentle whispers and caresses, barely there touches. When they separated again, she snuggled next to him, her head resting on his chest.

"There's a carnival coming to town next week. Me and Mark take Matt every year." She started, rushing through the rest. "Would you want to take us this year?"

"A carnival. With rides and stuff?" He clarified. The last one he'd been to he'd taken a bite out of a teenager that had consumed so much junk it nearly rotted his fangs. He didn't figure she'd appreciate the memory.

"Yeah, and enough sugary goodness to keep the dentists in the area busy for the next six months," she chuckled. He snorted, thinking that what she had said almost mirrored his own thoughts.

"It would be my pleasure." He responded, his voice gaining a higher class accent than he normally used. She smiled, and stifled a yawn. Spike brushed his lips across her head, and nudged her a little.

"Think that's my cue, kitten," he said, and with a sigh, she sat up. "I'll come by tomorrow?"

"Yeah. That'd be great." She smiled shyly at him, biting her bottom lip.

"Til tomorrow, then." He said, rising to his feet, pulling her with him. She followed him to the door, leaning in for his kiss once more. "Goodnight, Buffy."

"Goodnight, Spike." She watched as he walked to his car, leaning her body against the door. With a final wave as he pulled away, she closed it, and locked it, then went to get ready for bed, her happiness putting a bounce in her step.

~*~*~

Spike pulled into the parking spot in front of his room, his mind replaying the entire evening over and over. His son was so beautiful, so smart. He pushed open the door, a love like he had never felt blooming in his chest. And Buffy. . . Her warmth and light touched him in ways that he never thought possible. Slamming the car door closed, he was too enraptured in his thoughts of his family to hear the person behind him. Suddenly, he found himself on his knees, stars dancing behind his eyes, and pain slicing through his skull. He growled as another blow landed across his kidneys, leaving him sprawled across the pavement.

Several more blows followed in quick succession, and through the roaring in his head, he was able to make out another roar. The roar of a car engine, and the screeching of tires. Footfalls and yelling penetrated his mind, and he realized that the attack had stopped. He growled at the hand that touched him on his back, blinking rapidly to clear the spots. When Willow's concerned face came into focus, he frowned.

"Wha. . .? " He gasped, pushing himself up to his knees. He turned his head, rage beginning to burn bright as he took in the scene before him. Mark had Xander jacked up on the hood of a black, '68 Camaro, his vampiric hearing picking out the words.

"What the hell did I tell you?" Mark growled. Willow looked on, fear evident in her eyes. Mark was bringing her home, (he had called out of work) and she had recognized Xander with a crowbar attacking the blonde from across the street. Mark had made the turn quickly, screeching to a halt behind the DeSoto, and jumped out before Willow had a chance to react. She had scrambled out and ran to Spike, relieved to see he had just been surprised and stunned. Now, he was already on his feet, in full game face, stalking towards the brunette men.

"Let him up, Tonto," he snarled. Mark turned to glare at him, not fazed by the demonic visage of the vampire. He'd known what he was before, no need to act all girly now. Seeing the look in the vampire's gold eyes, he let go, backing up to stand next to Spike.

"Don't kill him. Anne wouldn't like it. And don't call me Tonto" was all he said as he stepped further back.

"Oh, I won't kill him," Spike said, advancing on Xander. "You want a piece of me, boy? Care to take me on now that my back isn't turned?" he growled.

"Hello, vampire. Have to take any advantage I can get." Xander sneered, sliding off the hood to his feet. Spike let out a bitter laugh, and shook back into his human features.

"Hey, I'll even let you take the first shot." He stood, arms held out at his sides, chin held at an angle to give the other man a good shot. Willow's eyes darted between the three, alarm all over her face. Xander was standing in front of the car, still clutching the crowbar. Spike was in front of him, every muscle coiled to strike. And Mark was next to her, the look on his face making him seem just as dangerous as Spike. He was prepared to jump in should it get out of hand, and she wasn't sure if she liked that idea. She tried to keep her eyes on all of them at once, waiting for the moment to send them in different directions if need be.

Xander looked at Spike, feeling some of his bravado slip now that he was actually faced with the pissed off vamp. He silently cursed Mark and Willow's timing. He had planned on strike and retreat. Get the hell out of Dodge before Spike recovered enough to kill him. Now, he had a choice. Fight, and deal with the possibility of death. Or run. He didn't care for the thought of running, so he fisted his hand around the crowbar and swung. The hit sent Spike's head snapping around, a cut opening on his jaw. But, as he slowly turned back towards Xander, the man felt an icy finger of fear trail down his spine at the evil grin that was on the blonde's face.

"Now, that wasn't so hard, was it?" He said, in the second before his fist plowed into Xander's stomach. The boy doubled over, his groan of pain filling the air. Spike grabbed a fistful of his hair, bringing his head up and slamming it back down onto his upraised knee. The satisfying crunch of Xander's nose did nothing to alleviate the rage flowing through him, so he reached down to pick him up by the scruff of his neck. "Wanker," he spat, cocking his arm back to send another punch flying. Before he connected, he felt himself flying through the air, the sound of Willow's voice fading as he landed against the side of the hotel.

"Separate," she cried, sending Xander careening across the hood of Mark's car to the pavement on the other side, and Spike to the wall of the hotel. "Freeze!" This effectively immobilized them both. Mark watched the display with a mixture of amusement and awe. Spike was letting out a stream of colorful curses and Xander was groaning in pain from the concrete.

"That's enough. Both of you," she said, looking pointedly at Spike. He scowled, but nodded. She had allowed Spike his hits, feeling that Xander deserved them. However, she would not let the vampire decimate her best friend, no matter what he had done. It wasn't physically fair.

"Let me down, Red. I'm done." The look she gave him told him just how much she believed that. "Oh, come on. S'not like you can't do the hocus pocus and freeze me again." He said, looking exasperated. With a nod, she did, and Spike hit the ground in a heap. Giving him a warning glare, she turned and walked over to Xander. He was laying on the ground, blood pouring from his nose, and two spectacular black eyes blooming.

"Xander?" All she got was a cough in response. Kneeling down next to him, she placed a hand on his chest. "Xander?" She called again. He managed to open his eyes, pain and fury swirling in their depths. "That was stupid," she told him, shaking her head.

"Yeah, well, I never was too bright," he said, his forced laugh causing him to cough again.

"What were you thinking? Are you crazy?" she asked him, absolutely furious with him.

"Had to try, Will, before he hurt Buffy."

"Why in the bloody hell would I hurt Buffy, you git? She's the mother of my child!" Spike growled, coming up behind Willow. Mark moved to the other side, looking down at the younger man.

"So, that makes you all good and not wanting to kill the Slayer? Right. Sorry, ain't buying it."

"Even if that were the case, Xander. Buffy can handle herself." Willow reminded him.

"Yeah, and she's always got Tonto, here," Spike said, jerking his thumb at Mark.

"Quit. Calling. Me. That." Mark said through clenched teeth. Spike snorted, and looked away.

"God, what is it with men?" Willow exclaimed, interrupting the fight starting behind her. "Is the testosterone clogging your brains, or something? Live or undead, you're all a bunch of morons." With a disgusted flip of her hair, she stalked away. Let them kill each other, she didn't much care at the moment. Shooting a glare at Spike, Mark took off after her, barely making it through her door before she slammed it.

"Going to kill me now?" Xander asked without humor. Spike could see that's what he expected.

"No. Not going to waste my time. But, I will tell you this, stay away from me and mine. Understand?" He shifted back into game face, pleased to see the fear penetrate the hate in the boy's eyes.

"What are you going to do? Try to play family man now?" Xander let out a bitter laugh, rolling to climb up to his knees. "You're a monster, Spike. A demon. How do you think that's going to help in the parent department, huh? What can you teach him about being a PRODUCTIVE member of society? How to dismember a body in thirty seconds or less?" Spike struggled to keep his hands at his sides, and not show Xander that he could do that last one in a LOT less than thirty seconds.

"I mean it, whelp. I don't want to see you around me, or Buffy, OR MY SON. Ever." His voice dipped dangerously low, his gold eyes blazing. Xander shrank back, his ire not dissipating despite the threat in the blonde's eyes. But, he didn't say anymore, just watched as Spike turned in a swirl of black leather, and strode away.

~*~*~

Mark leaned against the cheap wood dresser of the hotel, while getting his first taste of the redhead's anger. He had to admit, he was a bit unnerved by the flashing black of her eyes.

"It was bad enough that Xander goes and attacks Spike, then YOU have to go get all offended cause he calls you by a stupid nickname!" She cried, crossing her arms over her heaving breasts. "God, petty much?"

"It's offensive." He tried to defend himself.

"Spike is always offensive. He wears it with pride, like his duster." She shot back. "You'll just have to get used to it. Especially if you want to keep peace around Buffy." She paced the length of the room, her face flushed with anger. Why did guys have to be so stupid? She was upset about Xander, then Spike and Mark have to start a pissing contest. She could almost feel Spike's jealousy towards Mark, even through his rancor at Xander. And it so didn't help with the guitar player getting all sensitive about Spike's usual antics. Bad situation made worse in a matter of seconds, just add male ego.

Mark sighed and stepped in front of her, a brow quirking at the narrowing of her eyes.

"I'm sorry. I'll try not to let it get to me," he said. Willow looked doubtful, but she knew he really wasn't the one she was angry with. She wasn't even mad at Spike. Xander was the one in the wrong here, and she was having a hard time having any sympathy for her friend.

"No, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to go mental. It was just. . .too much. Ya know?" Mark nodded. "I don't know what to do about Xander. The longer we're here, the more he seems to lose control," she said, leaning her forehead against his chest. He ran his hands over her arms, soothing her.

"As my old Indian grandmother used to say, everybody has to find their own way. He'll either find a way to deal with it, or he'll alienate himself from the people he supposedly loves," he said. She tilted her head back and smiled up at him.

"Old Indian grandmother, huh? She got anymore insightful sayings? Like, what to do when you find yourself incredibly attracted to a man you just met?" She asked, uncrossing her arms and looping them around his waist. His eyes turned black, and he grinned, causing her heart to skip.

"Yeah. She'd say, go for it." Willow's giggle was cut off by the sudden possession of his mouth over hers. She moaned softly as he kissed her breathless, his expert mouth moving sensuously over hers. His hands ran over her arms and across her back, sliding under the hem of her shirt to skim over the smooth skin of her back. She shuddered at the feel of his warm hands on her back, fire starting to run through her veins.

When they broke away, he continued to draw circles on her back.

"I can't, not yet," she whispered, hiding her face in his chest.

"Willow, look at me." He waited until she did, then continued. "If all I wanted was an easy lay, I would have taken one of those girls up on their offer last night. I don't expect anything. I want you, not going to lie about that. Almost since the second I saw you. God, was it only yesterday?" He was amazed that it was happening so quick. But, then again, his grandmother always told him, when it's right, you just know. Maybe that was why he never really pursued Anne. He loved her, and he knew that he could FALL in love with her, if he let himself. However, something always held him back. Holding this woman in his arms, he thanked the inner voice that kept him from falling completely over the edge for his friend.

"Yeah, it's kinda scary isn't it? I have . . .limited experience with men. I was in love with Xander for most of my life. Then I met Oz. But, that didn't happen like this." She said, wonder filling her eyes. She missed the grimace at her admission of love for Xander. He was thankful her taste had improved. "I don't want to get hurt again," she admitted quietly.

"I don't want to hurt you." He replied, smiling down at her. "There's no rush, for anything. I can wait." She smiled up at him, wondering if she could. The more she learned about him, the more she was around him, the more she wanted to let this feeling take her over. She had never believed in love at first sight, and she wasn't sure if she did now. But, something was definitely between them.

"Thank you," she told him, standing on her tip toes to claim his mouth again.

"Better stop this, or I'm going to forget that I'm trying to be noble," he teased. Her face turned the color of her hair, and he found himself charmed by it. "Can I see you tomorrow?" He asked.

"I kinda want to get together with Buffy tomorrow, if you don't mind." Willow said, apologetically. "But, definitely call me tomorrow. Or, should I call you? Is that too forward?" She asked, her brows drawing together.

"I'll call you. In the morning. Okay?" He said with a smile. She nodded, ducking her head, feeling silly. Sometimes she just couldn't keep that nerdy girl she had been from popping out.

"Okay." She mumbled against his shirt. Tucking a finger under her chin. He dropped a light kiss on her mouth and stepped away.

"I'll talk to you in the morning." Mark said with his trademark grin, sending her a wink before turning and walking out the door. Willow found herself smiling like a school girl with her first crush, and couldn't find it in herself to mind. It had been too long since she had felt this way, and she liked it. Doing a quick spin, she turned to go into the bathroom, for a shower then sleep, with dreams hopefully filled by the tall, dark Indian that kissed like the devil.

~*~*~

Spike lay sprawled across his bed, his naked form still tense from the fight. The hand holding his cigarette tapped lightly against his chest, the other thrown over his bleached head. He had tried to get back his earlier good mood by replaying the evening at Buffy's in his head. But, each time he imagined Matt's face, Xander's words would slam into him.

What if the whelp was right? He wasn't Angel, he didn't have the benefit of a soul. He knew the difference between right and wrong, he just didn't care. Or he hadn't. One day in the arms of the Slayer had changed him. He hadn't killed in so long, he had practically forgotten the want for it. But what if it didn't last?

Doubt and anxiety coursed over him, making him feel useless and weak. This wasn't like him. There used to be a time where he would see what he wanted and take it. He wanted Buffy, and he wanted Matt. What was the problem?

"You're a monster, a demon." Xander's voice rang through his head once more, making him growl. He would prove him wrong. He would show him, Buffy, and himself that he could be a good father, and a good mate.

Crushing out his cigarette, he rolled over onto his stomach, and forced the image of Xander from his mind. Nothing would keep him from what was his. He'd made a promise to Buffy, and he would die again before breaking it.




Chapter 11
 


"Hey, Will." Anne said, throwing the magazine she was holding aside. She and Matt were spending a lazy Saturday morning on the couch, cartoons on the TV. Well, at least she was trying to. Matt had been chattering non-stop about Spike, and how he couldn't wait to tell Sam that he DID have a daddy. He hadn't actually required a response from her, so she had picked up the magazine, pretending to read it while her own thoughts were consumed with the blonde vampire. She had just replayed their kiss on the couch over for like, the thousandth time, when the phone rang.

"Hi, Buffy. I wanted to know. . .if it's alright with you. . .that is," Anne smiled as she listened to Willow stammer, feeling like they hadn't spent the last five years apart. "Would you mind if I come over? Only if you don't mind," she added quickly.

"I want to see you too, Willow," Anne replied. She could almost see the look of relief rush to her friend's face.

"Oh. Good. In about an hour?"

"That'll be great." Anne gave her the address, then hung up with a smile.

"Whossat, Mommy?" Matt asked, looking up from the TV.

"That was my good friend, Willow. She's coming over soon. Wanna clean up your toys for me?"

"A'right." He clamored down from the couch, and started to pick up his stuff. Stretching, she stood and went to throw on some clothes. After she changed into a pair of shorts and a t-shirt with 'The Glamour Factory' written graffiti style across it, she went back out into the kitchen to start a fresh pot of coffee. Her dark hair was twisted up and secured with a claw, her feet bare. By the time she was done with that, and the straightening of the living room, Willow's cab pulled up. Anne had a fleeting thought that her house had seen more visitors in the last twenty four hours than it had since she bought it.

"Hey, Willow. Welcome to casa de Williams." They embraced again when the redhead walked inside.

"Hi. Wow, I love your house." Willow gushed, looking around. She smiled wide when her eyes landed on Matt. "Hello there." His wide blue eyes studied her with an intensity that immediately reminded her of Spike.

"You're the lady in the pitcher by Mommy's bed." He said, feeling pleased with himself. Willow looked over at Anne.

"I have one of you, me and Giles in the library."

"Oh. Well, my name's Willow. And I'll bet that you're Matt." She said, kneeling down to his level. Matt gave her a beaming smile, and she felt her heart melt.

"Yep, Matthew Rupert Williams." He exclaimed proudly. Willow's eyes widened, and she grinned hugely at him.

"Well, Matthew Rupert Williams, I'm very pleased to meet you." She held out her hand, and the giggling boy took it. After they shook hands, Willow stood, still smiling goofily.

"Matt, could you go play in your room for a bit? Me and Willow have to talk about some things. Okay?" He looked a little disappointed at not being able to study this new person, but he nodded.

"Bye."

"Bye, Matt. I'll see you before I leave." Willow assured the crestfallen child. She turned to Anne when he disappeared down the hall.

"He is so sweet, Buffy. And the spitting image of Spike." She giggled a bit at that. Anne smiled ruefully.

"Yeah, I know. And after last night, I am even more convinced that there are absolutely no genes of mine floating around in him. Come on, I put on coffee."

"Last night?" Willow asked, following her into the kitchen.

"Yeah, last night was 'the meeting'." The redhead's eyes widened in understanding.

"How did it go?"

"Great. Just, great." An almost secret smile touched Anne's lips as she took two blue, stoneware mugs out of the cabinet.

"Good. Wish things had stayed that way." Willow took the mug of coffee from Anne, and moved to sit with her at the table.

"What do you mean?" she asked, confusion in her hazel eyes. The witch took a deep breath, not really wanting to tell, but knowing she should. Xander was already in enough hot water with the former Slayer, and this would make it worse.

"We caught Xander attacking Spike last night at the hotel."

"What?" Anne's voice had lost all of it's warmth, and her head turned, as if encouraging Willow to repeat it in her 'good' ear.

"Xander attacked Spike last night. With a crowbar." She repeated, feeling miserable. The storm clouds that drifted through Anne's eyes was enough to make her nervous.

"Why?"

"I don't know. Guess he thought he was being helpful. You know Xander. Believe me, he hasn't changed much in five years." She replied with a snort, taking a sip of her coffee. She watched as her friend's knuckles turned white on the hand she was clenching into a fist.

"And he wonders why I didn't go home," she said with a roll of her eyes.

"I'm sorry, Buffy. For what it's worth."

"It's not your fault, Will."

"Maybe it is. If I hadn't done that spell to get us here, then it wouldn't have happened." Willow felt guilt surge once more. She grasped the fingers that snaked out to cover hers.

"No, I'm glad you did. I didn't know how much I missed you until I saw you," Anne told her. Sighing, she pulled her hand away. "Xander is just going to have to get over himself," she said with a shrug. Feeling the need to change the subject, she met Willow's eyes again.

"So, how's things on the Hellmouth."

"Now, they're good. Before, after you left. Not so good." Anne felt her own guilt surface at the thought of leaving her mother and friends at the mercy of every Big Bad in the state of California and beyond. She pushed it back, telling herself she had done her duty. She had already died once for the world, and she had killed Angel. That was enough.

"Why? What happened?" she heard herself asking. Silently, she cursed, not really wanting to hear.

"Well, right after you left, nothing too big happened. It wasn't until graduation that shit hit the fan."

"Huh?" Willow took another sip of coffee, before continuing.

"The Mayor tried to ascend."

"Again with the huh?"

"He wanted to become some higher demon thingy, and take over the world or something. You know the drill. And, of course, our graduation fell on the day that was just perfect for this. So, he gave his speech, then turned into this giant snake thing and tried to eat the entire graduating class."

"Lovely." Anne said, eyes stunned.

"It was intense. The new Slayer, Faith was there. She blew him and the school up."

"Whoa." Willow giggled at the expression on Anne's face.

"On the plus side, Snyder got eaten."

"Cool, score one for the snake demon."

"On the minus side, Harmony got turned by some vamp that worked for him."

"Oh, God. Tell me somebody staked her to put you guys out of your misery."

"Finally, Xander did. Using Cordy for bait." Both girls laughed at that.

"Again. Didn't she ever get tired of that?" The light in Willow's eyes faded a bit.

"Finally. They broke up senior year. She got tired of him always bitching about you being gone. Right after graduation, she left. I get a postcard every once in awhile."

"That's too bad. After I got over her somewhat grating personality, I thought they were kinda cute. Nobody could quite put Xander in his place like Cordy," Anne said, remembering the brunette fondly. Time softens a lot.

"Yeah." Willow thought about the times she had wanted to curse the prom queen for taking Xander away from her. But now, all she could do was wish that she had stayed. Despite all the bitching he did about her now, Xander still loved her.

"Speaking of exes. . ." Anne prompted, sipping her coffee, eyebrows raised in question.

"Oz." At the flash of hurt that crossed Willow's face, Anne back pedaled.

"Oh, you don't have to say if you don't want. I have no right to ask," she stammered. She didn't want to cause Willow pain. There had been enough of that going around before she left.

"No, it's not that. It's just. . .ho boy. He cheated on me." Anne's eyes nearly popped out of her head at that. She NEVER expected that from Oz.

"Oh, no. I'm so sorry. With who?" She was incredulous.

"Some she-wolf." Willow said bitterly. "She was the lead singer in some band that was playing at the Bronze. From the first time he saw her, he was like, entranced, or something. He started to break dates with me to go see them play. Then, one night, I dunno, he just gave in. She was always telling him to give into his wolf nature, don't cage the beast, and all that shit. And after that, it got worse."

"I don't see how," Anne told her. She got up to refresh their cooling cups, wishing she could take away the pain in her friend's face.

"Well, after their little. . .thing, he told her to get lost. He loved me and he couldn't hurt me like that."

"Good thing he waited until after they'd already done it," Anne sneered. Willow snorted.

"She took exception. Cornered me in the chemistry lab. God, Buffy, she had this way wicked control over it. Almost like she could turn it on and off. It was scary. Even more scary than the grr. Cause, she KNEW what she was doing."

"What happened?" Anne sat on the edge of her seat, her vivid imagination providing pictures to go with her friend's words.

"Oz came in right when she was about to make me her midnight snack. He killed her." Willow ran a finger around the rim of her mug, tears brimming in her eyes from the still fresh heartache.

"Oh, god, Will, I'm sorry." She repeated, knowing it wasn't enough, but what else could she say?

"Yeah. Me too. He left after that, saying he was afraid of the beasty side, and he didn't want to hurt me again. I haven't seen him since." She lifted one slender shoulder, her bright hair spilling over it.

"Well, maybe it was for the best," she offered lamely. How many times had she told herself that over the years? And how many times had it rung hollow?

"Maybe. But, the damage was done before she attacked me. I don't know if we could have ever gone back after that," Willow said quietly. They both sat quietly for a moment, each pondering the ways their lives had twisted and turned over the years. They broke out of their revery by a knock on the door.

"Who could that be?" Anne mumbled, rising to go answer it. She returned a moment later, a knowing smile in her face. Mark walked in behind her. A bright smile replaced the frown that had marred Willow's pretty face. He flashed her a grin in return, quirking a dark brow at the snickering Anne.

"What?"

"Nothing. Want some coffee?" She asked, reaching in to grab him a cup.

"Sure. Hey, Willow," he said, his deep voice softening. Anne bit back another snicker at her friend's smitten attitude. In all the years she had known him, he had NEVER acted like this around a girl. Not even her. *God, he must have it bad,* she thought, turning to hand him his mug. *Good for him* came next when she saw the sparkle in his eyes.

"Hi, Mark." Willow replied, her cheeks staining to a pretty red.

"MARK!" Mark reached down to steady the boy who had attached himself to his leg.

"Hey, there, grasshopper. What's up?"

"My daddy came home," Matt told him, excited.

"I know. Did you like him?" Mark asked in a conspiratory voice, smiling wide at the enthusiastic head bobbing of the child.

"Yeah, an' he's a vampire. Innit tha neat?"

"Isn't" Anne corrected. Matt scrunched up his nose, but never took his eyes off of Mark.

"Very neat." Mark saw no problem with the boy knowing, after all, he was going to find out some day, might as well be now. Willow, however, was shocked. Not appalled. Just shocked. It showed in the huge saucers of her green eyes, and the slight dropping of her jaw.

"Come on, Mark. Le's go play. They wanna talk." Matt told him, his tone very adult. Mark chuckled and allowed him to pull him into the back, casting one last look at the redhead.

"Willow? What's the matter?"

"I. . .I. . .uhm. I guess I just wasn't expecting you to tell him so soon. I mean, I know he has to know. . .it's just weird." Willow finished on a huff. She didn't want to piss Anne off. Anne just laughed.

"He asked."

"What?"

"He asked if Spike was sick because he was so cold, then came to the conclusion that he must be a vampire cause I told him that vampires were cold," she explained with a shrug. "I don't lie to him. There's too much danger in the world," she finished, waiting for the disapproval.

"Well, that's good. Wish somebody had mentioned to me that the nasties were real. Afterall, I grew up over the Hellmouth. Mighta been handy." She shot Anne a smile, happy to see it returned.

"Now, what did you do to that boy? He certainly is smitten." Anne leaned on the table, brow raised, eyes teasing.

"Nothing." Willow's face was the same shade as her hair.

"Did you carpe him?" Anne's tone was sly.

"Oh, God, no." Willow's eyes were saucer sized again, her appearance flustered.

"Why the hell not?" She demanded. "How long's it been since Oz left?"

"Three years. But, I'm not like that," she insisted.

"Neither's he. Wills, it wouldn't be a one night stand with him.. I don't think he knows how to do that." Anne told her, stressing the last sentence. Willow didn't care for the teasing to be directed just at her, so she turned the tables.

"What about you? Have you carpe'd Spike since. . .the last time you carpe'd him?" She snickered when Anne blushed.

"Well, no. But, that's kinda different."

"How? You two at least have a history, and a child. I just met Mark." One red eyebrow arched, as she bit back the smile threatening to expand at her friend's expense.

"Well, ah, it just is," she stammered. They stared at each other for a moment, before erupting into a spurt of giggles. "We have kissed though. A lot."

"So have Mark and I." Willow leaned closer, so they could compare without the threat of being overheard.

"Oh, god. What was it like?"

"Tingles right down to the toes."

"And flip flops of the stomach."

"Oh, yeah. Heart speeding up."

"Blood singing."

"Trying to get so close you're almost inside of him."

"And still, that's not close enough." Anne sat back with a sigh. "And that's just with your clothes ON."

"Yeah." They both sighed this time, lost in thought again. Suddenly, Willow turned serious once more. "I'm sorry about Angel."

"I've been over him a long time now, Will. But thank you. It was hard, for a while. But, once I found out I was pregnant, wallowing wasn't an option." She traced a finger in circles on the table, a sad look haunting her eyes.

"I guess not. Were you sorry that it wasn't Angel's?" Willow asked quietly. Anne thought for a long moment, trying to find the words.

"I think at first I was. But, that day with Spike was so special. So different from anything I had ever experienced before. Plus Angel was gone, and I wouldn't have had even the thin hope that he would know his child. At least with Spike, I knew he was still out there somewhere."

"And now, he's here," Willow finished for her.

"Yeah, now he's here. He's all I think about Willow. You should have seen him with Matt, so sweet. It almost broke my heart. I never should have left L.A. It was my fault they lost all that time." She reached up and wiped a stray tear away. The witch reached across the table and took her hand, offering comfort she hadn't been allowed to give before.

"Why did you?" Anne sighed, and recounted the tale once more, almost laughing at the expressions that crossed Willow's face.

"He said that?" Green eyes flashed black for a second, startling Anne. "Why. . .I'll turn him into a toad. How could he? God, he's just so stupid." Willow cried, her mind conjuring up all sorts of nasty things to do to Xander.

"Willow, it's alright. . ."

"No, it's not. He practically called you a whore, then told you to," she dropped her voice to a whisper, "have an abortion just so you wouldn't have to bear the shame of carrying a vampire's baby. Humph. I can't believe how insensitive he can be." She sat back and crossed her arms over her chest, eyes snapping with indignation. She really didn't understand how he could have grown up with a girl for a best friend and be such a neanderthal.

"It was my own fear that sent me out of L.A., Will. I figured if Xander reacted like that, how would the rest of you? Especially since the baby WAS Spike's. I was wrong. It wasted four years of precious time that could have been spent with Matt knowing his father."

"And what about you? Is that all you want Spike for? A father for Matt?" Willow asked, quietly.

"No, that's not all. I want him." She finally admitted out loud to someone other than herself. Willow smiled at the look of awe on her friend's face. "When we're together, it's like everything falls into place."

"Are you in love with him?" That was the million dollar question, wasn't it?

"I don't know. I'll tell you, when I saw him in the Glamour Factory, it was like this magnet pulled me to him. And, it's been like that every time we see each other. He's all I think about. All I dream about." Anne snickered and shook her head. "I just don't know." The redhead smiled at her friend's confusion, already knowing the truth herself. It was the same way she felt about Mark, and that comparison scared the crap out of her. Deciding a change of subject was in order, she took a deep breath.

"What's the Glamour Factory?"

"The strip club where I worked." Anne fell out in a mass of giggles at the look on Willow's face.

"Strip. . .club? Guess Xander's lead wasn't wrong after all." She stammered, taking a long swallow of her cold coffee.

"What lead?" She asked, giggling again, imaging the look on Xander's face.

"Some girl in the drug store said that a girl that looked like you worked there. I guess she wasn't wrong."

"Must've been Leslie. That cow," Anne sniffed. "She comes in on Mondays trying to get a piece of Mark. She won't take the hint that he's not interested."

"Maybe I'll turn HER into a toad," Willow mumbled.

"Ooh. The little green monster rears its head." They both snorted, grins still on their faces when Mark walked back in.

"And what could possibly be so funny as to have the two most beautiful women in the world smiling like that?" Anne rolled her eyes, liking the way her friend flushed prettily at the compliment.

"You silver-tongued devil. Your grandmother been teaching you how to butter up pretty girls again?"

"Nah, she gave up on me years ago," he said, putting his cup in the sink. "I gotta head out. Missed work last night, so Ralph wants me to come in at one." The black look that crossed his face let them know just what he thought of that. But, silly little things like rent demanded to be paid. Anne watched the pair steal glances at each other before heaving an exaggerated sigh and getting up.

"I'm going to go check on Matt," she said, leaving the kitchen, her chuckle ringing out behind her. The two left in the kitchen stared at each other. Willow felt a nervous flush stain her face as he pushed away from the counter. She briefly wondered if he was ever nervous as he gently cupped her cheek and tilted her face up. She sighed as his lips brushed over hers.

"Not very subtle, am I?"

"No. But that's okay. I'm glad you came by." She said, lightly dragging her teeth over her lip.

"Good," he said, straightening. "There's a Carnival in town next week, want to go?" She nodded, her smile blooming wide. "Great. I'll call you tomorrow?"

"Yeah. I'd like that." Willow was finally used to the heart trip that occurred every time he smiled, but she hoped she never got used to the flare of desire that happened when he looked at her in just the way he was now. Head tilted to the side, lips slightly curved, brown eyes nearly black. She felt dizzy every time he did it, and she so didn't want to lose that feeling.

"Goodbye, Willow," he said, kissing her again. God, she loved a guy who liked kissing, she decided.

"Bye." She watched him leave the kitchen, that silly smile returning.

"Annie, I'll call you tomorrow," he called on his way out.

"Alright. Bye Mark," she called back, her farewell followed by Matt's.

"Bye, Matt. Be good." Then, he was gone.

Anne returned to the kitchen a few seconds later, Matt in tow. She felt happiness bloom in her chest at the look on Willow's face. Awww, sprang to mind again, and she decided to leave Mark alone the next time she saw him, and not tease him mercilessly the way he deserved.

"Hey, want some lunch? The little monster behind me claims he's starving." Matt frowned at the description.

"I'm not a li'l monsta, Mommy. I'm a BIG monsta. GRRR!" He curled his hands and scrunched up his face. Anne shivered in mock terror, squealing as he lunged at her.

"Oh, no. Help me, Willow, help me." Willow got up to join the game, and laughter filled the house.

~*~*~

About a half hour after sunset, Spike knocked once more on Anne's door. He still had some lingering doubts about himself and this family thing, but when Anne opened the door, her smile huge, he pushed them away. Then, Matt got up from his place on the floor with Willow, and ran to his father.  Willow covertly inspected his face, glad to see that no evidence of the fight the night before was evident.

"DADDY!" He squeaked, laughing when he was scooped up and spun around.

"Hello, poppet. Miss me?"

"Yeah, Daddy. We're gonna watch movies." He looked over at Anne, giving in and leaning over to kiss her. She returned it happily, giggling at the look of eww that crossed their son's face.

"Movies, huh. Got room for one more?"

"Sure do. I was just getting ready to order dinner. I have something special for you," she said. "A little liquid nourishment," she prompted at his confused look. Realization dawned across his face, making her smile at the astonishment she saw there.

"Thanks, kitten." Clearing his throat, he shifted Matt until he was holding him more comfortably. "Where you ordering from?"

"Pizza," she answered, moving towards the kitchen.

"No anchovies," he called behind her, dropping Matt on the couch so he could take off his duster. "Hey, Red."

"Hi, Spike. You do realize it's like, a hundred degrees out there?" She asked, eyeing the duster. He chuckled at her.

"Yeah. Temperature changes don't bother me."

"I know that, but shouldn't you at least TRY to blend in?" she asked. She grinned when Matt scrambled back into Spike's arms. He was so good with him, she thought. In just these few short minutes she had seen them together, she could tell. Adoration flowed between them.

"Hey, I dare to be different." Willow rolled her eyes and continued with the card trick she had been showing Matt. The little boy's eyes widened when she pulled the card he had picked out of the middle of the deck.

"Wow. How'd ya do that?"

"It's magic," she whispered mysteriously. He giggled at her tone, liking the pretty redhaired lady.

"Well, pizza's on the way, no anchovies," Anne said, walking back into the living room and sitting next to Spike, drawing her legs up onto the couch.

"So, what're we watching this fine evening?"

"Oh, we're having a triple showing. Scooby Doo and the Alien Invaders, Scooby Doo's Greatest Mysteries, and Pokemon the Movie." To Spike's credit, he kept the groan from escaping.

"What is it with you lot and Scooby?" He muttered, easing his body down further until his shoulder was brushing Anne's.

"I like Scooby, Daddy." Matt looked a little hurt at Spike's question.

"Yeah? I never would have guessed," he replied, eyeing the pj's he was wearing. "Well then, let's get this cinematic adventure started, shall we?" He said, grinning. Willow stood and moved to the chair, kicking her legs over the side. Anne picked up the remote and hit play, then rested her head against Spike's shoulder. Matt squirmed until he was sprawled half on Spike's lap and half on his mother's, leaning his cheek on his father's thigh. Spike settled back, draping an arm around Anne and running a hand over his son's dark head. Sighing contentedly, he thought that unlife didn't get much better than this.




Chapter 12
 


Xander sat alone in his dark hotel room, a bottle of whiskey held loosely in his hand. His face hurt, his abdomen was sore. He could only open one eye without pain, and he hadn't eaten anything since before his ill planned attack on Spike. He was miserable, hurt, and well on his way to being drunk. Jealousy was working its will through him, making him crazy. He ran a hand through his dark hair, countering the pain that caused by taking another swig from the bottle. Grimacing as the bitter liquid poured down his throat, he fought back the tears that stung his eyes.

He had been so sure that finding Buffy had been the right thing to do. He wanted to apologize for the things he had said to her. She'd had enough to deal with, without him being such a jerk. But, whenever it came to the vampires that she had let into her life, he got a chronic case of foot in mouth disease. Angel, well, at least he'd had a soul. Didn't make him any less undead, but it gave him a conscience. Then, there was Spike. One of the most vicious vampires of the last century, who didn't have the benefit of a soul. Who she also had a child with. And now, she wouldn't see Xander, but she was playing family with the evil undead.

Willow. . .Willow was pissed at him. He begrudgingly allowed that she had a reason. She had been his friend forever, and now he was doing a good job of fucking it up. He hadn't meant to make her attraction to Mark seem sordid, but he was upset. No excuse, but true. She had tried to talk to him this morning, but he had refused to open the door, still angry with her for her defense of the vampire, and her lack of defense of him with Mark and Spike.

The more Xander thought about it, the more he got pissed. When exactly had he become the bad guy? When did the tables turn between him and Spike?

Sighing, Xander knew when. The second he had lied about the spell. Nobody had forgiven him for that little stunt. Not Joyce, not Willow, not Giles. He had betrayed her trust, all because of how much he hated Angel. And he did hate the souled flip-side of Angelus, as much as Angelus himself. For tempting Buffy, making her forget her calling as far as he was concerned. Now that forgetfulness extended to his childe.

Tilting the bottle back once more, he thought he should do something to make her see that Spike was still as evil as ever. He'd never believe the vampire could change. He didn't have a soul, a conscience. As far as Xander was concerned, there was nothing redeemable about him. Why should HE get the girl, and the kid?

No, something had to be done. And soon.

~*~*~

Anne smiled as she opened the door, seeing Spike on the other side. But, even through her smile, he could see a bit of annoyance.

"What's the matter?" he asked, coming in and closing the door.

"Me and Willow were going to go out for a girl's night out, but Molly can't come over. Almost as soon as you got me fired," she said with a glare. He had the decency to look sheepish. "She got another job."

"I'll stay with him," he said, a flash of hurt crossing his face that she hadn't thought to ask him. Especially after the night before. Somewhere in the middle of the second movie, Matt had fallen asleep across his parent's laps. Spike had gathered him up, tucking him into bed, and just staring at him for a few minutes. When Anne had come looking for him, she had stood watching him watch his son, a look of pure happiness on her face. Then, after Willow had left, they had spent quite a bit of time snogging on the couch like teenagers. He had thought that she trusted him.

"Are you sure?" As soon as the words fell from her mouth, she wished she could pull them back. A scowl twisted his features, and his eyes turned icy.

"Don't be daft," was all he would allow himself to say. Anything more would result in a fight of apocalyptic proportions.

"I'm sorry," she said, stepping closer to him. He jerked a little when she touched his arm. Sighing, she raised her hand to cup his cheek. "I'm still getting used to this whole other parent around thing. I'm sorry I didn't think of you first." His face softened as he looked down at her, her eyes pleading with him to understand.

"Alright, luv." Her mouth bloomed into a smile, and he leaned down to kiss it. Her thumb stroked his cheek as his lips sipped on hers. Delicious tremors raced down her spine and she struggled to remember WHY they were waiting.

"Daddy!" a tiny voice squealed, causing them to groan with still unfulfilled desire.

"Hello, bit. Feeling up to a night with your dad?" Spike asked, running a hand over Matt's head.

"Really?"

"Yeah. Mum's going out for a while, so it's just us boys."

"Okay. Can we make pawcorn?" Matt asked, blue eyes hopeful. Spike glanced at Anne before answering. She gave a slight nod.

"Sure."

"Yay!" Matt threw his arms around Spike's leg in a quick hug then tore off down the hall. "Be back!" he cried. Anne and Spike watched him go with amused smiles.

"Don't let him try to get anything over on you. He always does with Mark." She was still looking down the hall, and missed his body go ridged at the mention of Mark's involvement in his son's life. By the time she turned to him, he had relaxed.

"We'll be fine," he assured, reaching out to pull her to him. "Hurry back," he whispered, leaning in to feast from her mouth again. "We have unfinished business."

"Spike," she breathed between sweeps of his mouth.

"Sh, kitten. Don't think. Just feel," Spike drawled. "You can feel how right this is." He closed his mouth fully over hers, his tongue sliding in to posses hers. She clutched desperately at his leather clad shoulders, her senses on overload. When he pulled back, he dropped a kiss on the tip of her nose, releasing her when Matt barrelled back into the room. The smell of her arousal wafted to him, and a sensual smile curled his lip. "Have a good time, pet."

"Yeah, bye Mommy," Matt said, smiling up at her. Anne stared blankly at them for a minute. Then, she mentally shook herself back to reality.

"Geez, here's your hat, what's your hurry, huh?" she said with a laugh. "Alright, I shouldn't be late. Bedtime's nine tonight, young man," she said firmly. He scowled in perfect imitation of Spike. She bit back a laugh and leaned down to kiss him. "Be good for Daddy," she whispered. "He's new at this." He giggled, and hugged her, placing a wet kiss on her cheek.

"Okay, Mommy." She stood and looked at Spike, kissing him goodbye as well.

"You be good, too."

"Oh, I'll be very good," he purred, his meaning not lost on her. She felt her skin heat up, and the fresh wave of desire washed over her.

"Jerk," she muttered when he grinned. "Be back in awhile," she said, turning to leave, cursing the sexy vampire.

"So, what first?" Spike asked when the door closed behind her.

"Pawcorn, pawcorn!" Matt cried, jumping up and down.

"Right, then, popcorn it is. Why don't you come show your dad where everything is." Matt's eyes brightened at the opportunity to help.

"Okay, C'mon." He dashed into the kitchen, a chuckling Spike following him after he shook off his duster.

~*~*~

Mark's boots echoed in the quiet night as he climbed the steps to Anne's house. He knew she wasn't home, he had called Willow earlier, and learned that the two women were going out for a night on the town. He decided to use the opportunity to have a little chit chat with Spike. He didn't feel any jealousy over the re-emergence of the vampire. Quite, the contrary, he was happy that Anne was getting her family like she had always wanted. And, Willow was enough to distract him from any romantic feelings he had still been harboring for the tiny woman.

The thought of the redhead brought a smile to his face, and he wished again that they could have seen each other tonight. She was amazing. Smart and funny, with the cutest habit of blushing when she got flustered. She was powerful, yet still shy. He wanted her like he had never wanted another woman, even Anne.

Shaking off the thoughts of the tiny witch, he raised his hand to knock, only to drop it in surprise when the door swung open, revealing a very suspicious Spike.

"What're you doing here?" he asked without preamble.

"Just stopped by," Mark answered, tilting his head to the side. The two men sized each other up, until Matt took notice of his Uncle's presence. Looking freshly bathed and happy, he looked up at the Indian with wide, blue eyes.

"Unca Mark. Mommy went out. Daddy stayin' wif me," Matt exclaimed, proudly. Mark smiled down at the boy, holding his arms out. Matt immediately launched into them. Out of the corner of his eye, the brunette saw Spike stiffen at the way his son acted towards him. "I know Mommy went out. I came to talk to your father." Spike's eyes narrowed into slits, and he stepped away from the door to let Mark and his son back into the house. Mark set Matt back onto his feet, and ran a hand over his damp curls.

"Daddy says it's time for bed," Matt said with a pout, slipping his eyes between his father and uncle, thinking that now he had an ally.

"Well, then, you should listen." Despite himself, Spike's lips quirked. Matt had obviously been expecting Mark to help him out, and by his crestfallen expression, had been foiled.

"Come on, poppet. Your Mum said nine, it's already nine thirty. I'm risking being dusted as we speak," Spike said, scooping Matt off his feet.

"She won't dus' you, Daddy."

"And why not?"

"Cause she likes you too much." Spike grinned at the basic logic of his child.

"Well, that's good. Say goodnight to Mark."

"G'night, Unca Mark." Matt said with a wave as Spike started carrying him down the hall.

"Make yourself at home." You already have for the last four years, he added bitterly to himself. Mark took a deep breath and went into the kitchen to look for the beer Anne usually kept for him. When Spike returned a few minutes later, Mark was sitting on the couch, cigarette smoldering in the hand tapping against his knee, beer sitting on the coffee table in front of him. His long legs were stretched out in front of him, and he looked thoroughly at ease in Anne's home. Ignoring him for the moment, Spike went into he kitchen and got his own beer, then went back and flopped into the easy chair, reaching into the pocket of his red shirt for his own cigarettes. They both sat, silently smoking, contemplating the other man in the room.

"You hurt her," Mark finally said, leaning forward to stab out his smoke. Spike studied the tip of his, then turned his blue eyed gaze to the almost black one of Mark.

"I know," he replied, not feeling the need to go further into it.

"She didn't think you were going to come back, no matter what she told Matt. I could see it, in her eyes. You left her," Mark persisted, his tone accusatory.

"Didn't think I had a choice. Me vampire, her Slayer. S'not exactly destined for happiness. Not to mention we had both just watched the one's we loved get sucked into Hell. Not a good thing to base a relationship on," Spike shot back, taking a long swallow of his beer. "Didn't know I was missin' her until I found myself back in Sunnydale," he said, almost to himself. "Then, it was too late. She was already gone."

"Don't hurt her again." Mark's voice wasn't threatening, it wasn't pitched anyway that could have been assumed as such. It just held a thread of promise of what might happen if Spike did just that. The scarred eyebrow shot up, the crystal blue eyes flashed yellow with a brief shot of anger. Mark just returned his stare, calmly, elbows resting against his knees.

"I don't plan to. But that's between Buffy and me," Spike growled, leaning forward himself to put out the forgotten cigarette.

"She's been my business for a little over four years now. I won't see her hurt. Or Matt." Spike surged to his feet, game face forward. The low warning growl sounding in his chest reverberated around the room.

"They are mine!," he snarled, somehow remembering to keep his voice low so as not to disturb Matt. Mark also rose to his feet, towering over the blonde vamp. They were similar in build, their height the only difference.

"I'm not trying to take your claim on them. I'm just letting you know, that I don't care WHO you are, I don't care WHAT you are. You hurt them, in ANY way, and you will have to deal with me." His voice was low and dangerous, his eyes blazing. Spike almost smirked, ready to remind him that no matter how Mark made his living, he wasn't some redneck cowpoke that couldn't handle his liquor. But, something about the younger man's character made him pause. These weren't words spoken out of prejudice or hate. They were spoken out of love for the woman and the child. Spike suddenly found himself very glad that Buffy and Matt had this man beside them for so long. Sighing heavily, he shook off the demon visage, as well as the jealousy he had been carrying around.

"Fair enough," he acquiesced, settling back down in the chair. Mark blinked, surprised that he had backed down so quickly, knowing that something had just changed between them, but not sure what. He sat down himself, grabbing the bottle he had placed on the coffee table and taking a drink. "Wanna watch some telly?" Spike asked, grabbing the remote.

"Sure." And with that, they settled back to watch some movie full of car chases and explosions, waiting for their women to come home.

~*~*~

About an hour later, Anne stumbled through the door, giggling at like a mad woman. It only got worse when she looked up to see the slightly shocked eyes of the men. She sat down hard in the still open doorway, her laughter raising in volume.

"Sh, pet, You'll wake up bit," Spike admonished. She clamped a hand over her mouth, her giggles reduced to huffs.

"You had better have taken a cab home," Mark warned lightly, getting up to leave. "I assume Willow's not much better." Tears of mirth ran down Anne's cheeks as she shook her head. He shook his head and made a mental note to call the redhead bright and early tomorrow. With a wicked grin, and a half salute to Spike he stepped over Anne and left.

"Bye Mark," she said in a loud whisper, nearly falling over as she leaned out the door. Spike walked over to her, an amused smirk on his face.

"Alright, pet. I think it's time for beddy bye," he crooned, pulling her to her unsteady feet and closing the door.

"Ooh, what a good idea. You naughty vampire you," she slurred, wrapping her arms sloppily around his neck. In search of a quieter way to get her to her room, he swung her up in his arms, cradling her against his chest. The scent of her arousal hit him, and he had to bite back a groan. "I've been thinking about you aaaallll night," she mumbled, as her drunk, yet nimble fingers went to work on the shirt.

"Pet, let's not do this now," he said, trying to hurry down the short hall to the other bedroom. He nearly stumbled when he felt her hot, wet mouth latch onto his nipple. "Jesus," he hissed, the feel of her rough tongue on his skin having the reaction she was seeking. Her nails trailed lightly over the other one, causing him, the Big Bad, to whimper. He pushed the door to her room open, and kicked it closed, thankful it didn't slam when it shut. "Buffy, stop," he ground out.

"Why? Don't you want me?," she asked, petulantly. Her bottom lip stuck out in a pout, and she scowled at him.

"That's not the point, kitten. You're drunk." He dumped her on the bed, not prepared for how quick she could move in her inebriated state. Before he knew it, he was pinned on the bed, a very warm, very willing Slayer straddling his hips and nibbling along his jawline. He groaned, deep in his throat at her actions, and the feel of her heat pressed against his erection.

"I might be drunk, but I know what I want," she told him in a sing-song voice. The vibrations of her lips against his skin nearly had him popping right then. She looked up at him, pout firmly in place. "I'm tired of waiting," she sounded so much like Matt then, he nearly laughed out loud. But, when her hand shimmied between their bodies, and cupped him through the denim, all thoughts of laughing were erased. His hands gripped her hips, nearly bruising them.

"Oh, God, Buffy," he moaned. She gave him a feral smile, and ground her hips against her hand, caressing them both at the same time. Her jean skirt had ridden up, exposing the soft expanse of her thighs. Her heat was pressed tight against her hand, her clit throbbing with the contact.

"Mmmm," she purred, sliding that hand over them both. "I want you to fuck me Spike." His eyes widened at the bluntness of her words, and the feel of what she was doing to both of them with her tiny hand. "I want to feel you, so deep inside of me." She practically came just saying it, the dazed look of drunkenness quickly replaced by the haze of desire. "I want your hands on me, your mouth, your tongue. Every part of you." Her mouth had wandered back to his jaw, nipping and licking her way to his throat. Spike lay helpless beneath her, his body humming with want. All thought of putting her off fled when she bit hard on his throat. His growl made her shiver with anticipation, knowing she had him.

Suddenly, she found herself flipped and pinned beneath him, the swift action causing her vision to swim. She giggled at the sensation, only to have it change to a gasp when his mouth crashed over hers. His tongue pushed in to claim her, as his hips surged forward to grind his hard shaft into her hot center. Teeth, lips and tongue battled, vying for dominance in a battle neither wanted to win. She wrapped her legs around his lean waist, pressing him closer, her hands sliding over his back and shoulders, finally settling to fist in his hair. Spike's hands pulled her white, button down tank top out of the band of her skirt, his cool fingers gliding beneath to tease her skin. He pulled his mouth away from hers, to return the favor of grazing her jaw with his teeth. She writhed beneath him, wanting to feel him, not the clothes. Her fingers plucked uselessly against the smooth material of his shirt, urging him to take it off. He pulled away long enough to do just that, then reached down to unbutton hers. His mouth began to water when he saw her unbound breasts, and he lowered his head to capture one pert tip in his cool mouth.

"Oh, yeessss," she breathed, hooking her fingers through the belt loops of his jeans, forcing him harder against her. She arched her back, begging him to feast. He sucked hard on her nipple, and she squealed in delight. His hands slid under her skirt, ripping her excuse for underwear away. The only thing between them now was his jeans, and she reached between them once more to fumble with the button fly.

He trailed his tongue across the valley of her breasts, to give equal attention to the other soft mound, brushing her probing fingers away from his jeans, so he could do it himself. When she felt the tip brush against her opening, she whimpered, hips pushing up to invite him in. She felt like she would explode any moment, if he didn't quit playing around and get inside of her. When he still hesitated, his thoughts seemingly fixated on her breasts, she whispered hoarsely in his ear.

"Spike, please, now. It's been so long. I need you." He pulled up to look at her, the midnight of his eyes burning her. She felt his body trembling under her hands, realizing how close to losing control he was. Then, inch by agonizing inch, he pushed into her, pausing so they could both adjust. She was practically panting with how good it felt to have his icy shaft stretching her, filling her. Her eyes rolled back and mewling noises mixed with the sound of her breathing.

Spike watched her writhe and pant beneath him, the feel of her heat enveloping him, burning him, making him shake even harder. He'd dreamed of her for so long, had wanted her for so long. And here she was, every ounce of his passion being returned. When he was fully buried, he paused, trying desperately to control himself. But, Anne wouldn't have it. Almost violently, she thrust up, and squeezed he inner muscles, starting to milk him whether he was ready or not. Giving in to her urging, he pulled back until he was almost out of her, then thrust back in hard. Her groan of pleasure spurred him on, and he gripped her butt, holding her up so he could push deeper, harder. Each thrust brought his pelvic bone in contact with her clit, sending electric shocks coursing over her and making her throb. "So fucking hot," he hissed, speeding his already frenzied movements to match hers. She returned every thrust with abandon, wanting the release that hovered just out of reach. Spike buried his face in her throat, knowing he was close, but she wasn't. With a sound between a curse and a roar, he came, shuddering at the intensity. Her hips continued to pump, still seeking her own oblivion. As the last tremor passed through his body, he lifted his head.

"Sorry, pet. It's just been too long," he whispered, claiming her mouth once more. Wanting to give her pleasure, he pulled out of her, and pulled his mouth away from hers, skimming it down her sweat slicked body with his mouth, until he reached her dripping sex. She surged off the bed at the first swipe of his tongue across her sizzling heat, their combined tastes causing his cock to surge back to life. Her fingers dove into his hair, pressing him closer as he sipped from her, and she ground her hips against his face. He greedily drank all she had to offer, wanting more. Sliding his tongue up her slit, he curled it around her clit, using stiff strokes to make her cry out. Harder and faster he did this, holding her to him as she exploded in his mouth. She was practically sobbing when her orgasm crashed over her, and she pressed his face tightly against her, her body shaking with aftershocks.

Pulling her hands away from his head, he moved over her again, sliding into her effortlessly. They rocked together in unison, hands fisting together as their mouths attacked each other once more. Harder, faster they moved, their cries of ecstasy lost in the kiss. Anne arched against him as she came again, every muscle stretched and tense, her core tightening around him. Once, twice, three times he slammed into her, the final time he pushed as far as could, his seed splashing through her inner walls to her womb. Pulling away from her mouth, he buried his face in her hair, and panted heavily against her throat. Her fingers skimmed lightly over his back. A contented sigh slipping from her lips.

"I'm glad you're not hard to convince," she said, giggling. He nipped lightly at her throat, causing her to giggle louder.

"Yeah, well, you practically raped me," he teased. She snorted in response.

"Can't rape the willing," she told him. He chuckled at that, stopping when he noticed the evil gleam in her eye.

"What are you about, kitten?" With a snicker, she switched their positions, his once against hard shaft buried deep. He gripped her hips to steady her, and he looked up at the goddess rising above him.

"I wanna play cowgirl," she said with a silly grin, rocking her hips experimentally, causing them both to moan. This new position thrust him even deeper and she loved it. Running her hands over her own breasts, she did it again, delighting in the growl he let loose.

"Cor, Buffy. Are you trying to kill me?" He gasped, surging up to meet her.

"You're already dead," she said saucily. Then, she began to ride him in earnest. As they flew over the edge again, they fastened their mouths together, instinctively remembering the small child sleeping just across the hall. When the tremors subsided, Spike grabbed the edge of the quilt, and threw it over their still joined forms, and ran his hands lovingly over her back, smiling when he heard her breathing deepen.

"Goodnight, kitten," he purred, brushing a kiss across her temple. A part of him knew he should get up and close the curtains, so she didn't wake up next to a pile of dust, but he couldn't seem to convince himself to move. Praying to whatever deity looked out for creatures like him, he clutched his precious bundle closer, and followed her into sleep.



CONTINUED...

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