Chapter 47

She stood perfectly still, a ghostly smile lingering on her lips as she watched the myriad of emotions being played out on his face. The dominant one – awe. He stared wide-eyed at her; his stare glassy, his dilated pupils leaving little room for the shimmering blue in his iris. She felt her heartbeat double at the sight. It was amazing just how innocent and vulnerable he looked at that moment. It scared her to a certain extent to think that just those words could have such a strong effect on him.

Her smile faded and was replaced with a frown when she saw the change happen in his eyes just before he shut them tightly.

She inhaled deeply before breathing:

“I lov-“

“Don’t say it.” His voice was a mere whisper but enough to make the frown over her eyebrows grow deeper. “You don’t have to say it, Buffy.” He continued, opening his eyes to look at her.

“Spike, what are you…”

“You don’t have to say it just because I said it. If-“ He felt his voice faltering a bit and he swallowed hard once again before forcing the words out: “Don’t say it if you don’t feel it.”

Buffy remained frozen; her arms and legs still wrapped around him as he held her in his arms.

After a few seconds of silence he let his head bow and made a move to put her down but her legs pressed harder against his waist:

“I love you.” She said in a weak, a hint of fear pooling into her voice.

That seemed to capture his attention as he looked up at her. Was that hope in his eyes?

“I’m not saying it because I feel pressured. I-I’m saying it because that’s what I feel.” She paused, taking a moment before staring into his eyes. “I. Love. You.” She punctuated each word, holding onto him tighter.

There seemed to be no reaction coming from him. He just continued to stare at her with glassy eyes.

“D-didn’t you hear what I-“

She wasn’t able to finish the sentence as her mouth was suddenly covered with his in a desperate kiss. His grip on her waist became almost painful as he pressed her small form against his chest, trying frantically to bring her closer to him. His tongue hungrily pushed its way between her lips to explore her mouth. Buffy felt the wind being knocked out of her at the urgency of the kiss, but she matched his eagerness, letting her tongue passionately duel with his.

Her grip on the back of his neck grew tighter as she felt him start to move and stumble.

Spike moaned as he tripped over his boot’s laces. Thankfully, he managed to keep his balance long enough to reach the nearby isle. The moment he placed her safely on the white surface, his hands abandoned her waist and hips and tugged at the towel that was fastened tightly around her until it pooled down around her to reveal her naked form.

He tore his mouth from her with a moan and trailed hard kissed down her cheek and neck while one hand ran up her back to worm itself into her soaked hair.

Her mind raced, bringing back to her the memory of their first encounter on that same room, that same isle. It seemed so long ago, so much had changed since then. They had grown closer, found trust, found… love yet, so much remained the same - the passion, the heat between them still burning and all-consuming.

“Ah!” Buffy gasped her eyes shooting wide-open to meet the white ceiling of the kitchen as his mouth found its way to her one of her breasts; his lips roughly tugging at an already erect nipple.

His free arm encircled her, resting on her lower back for a second before abruptly tugging her closer to him, causing her spine to arch back, her breast being thrust against his hungry mouth while her legs were forced further apart, allowing his hips to nestle between them. Buffy shut her eyes, swallowing hard when she felt the harsh denim rub against her swollen clit.

Her heartbeat raced, her breath came in short, burning pants as he abandoned one breast to assault the other. She had never seen him like this… so hungry, so… desperate for her.

Her trembling hand moved over his abdomen, before diving between their bodies, blindly searching for some room to work on the fastening of his jeans. Thankfully, he hadn’t buttoned them all the way up and after a few gruelling seconds they were undone and her other hand came into play. She gripped the denim and tugged it down, having to occasionally to stop and gasp when Spike’s ministration made it impossible to continue. Eventually, when his jeans were halfway down his hips she gave up and her small hand found its way to his groin.

She felt his warm, sharp breath on her breast when her fingers encircled his cock and brought it to brush against her wet entrance. His forehead rested over her collarbone, his eyes tightly shut as she continued to tease him, holding him off when he tried to trust against her. Once, twice, thrice she denied, him until he gripped her wrist and forced her to let go of him.

With one hand around her back, the other holding her wrist, he looked up to meet her gaze before twisting his hips.

Buffy’s eyelids fell close and her mouth open when the tip of his cock brushed against her clit. He continued to move in slow circles around the sensitive nubbin.

“Spike… please…” She begged; her facial muscles contracting painfully, her wrist trying to twist itself free from his grip as the desire became almost impossible to bear. “P-“

She held her breath when she felt him slide down and position his cock at her opening. She opened her eyes to see him drop his mouth to her shoulder, kissing it lightly. His tongue was tracing small circles over her exposed flesh when suddenly he pushed forward, driving his cock all the way into her with one swift trust of his hips.

“Ah!” She cried out, throwing her head back at the feel of him stretching her inner walls.

When he released her hand to grasp her hips her nails dug deep into his back.

He never gave her time to recover as he started thrusting in and out of her, quickly building up to a fast, urgent rhythm. His mouth searched for her neck and when it found its goal his lips pulled and twisted the quickly reddening skin into ravenous open-mouth kisses.

Buffy’s nails trailed down his back, leaving flaming scarlet tracks behind that would certainly still be there in the morning. Her hands cupped two perfectly toned cheeks when they reached his ass, urging him to push harder and faster into her.

The sound of flesh slapping against flesh combined with their hungry groans and painful mewls filled the tiled room as Spike continued to pound into her.

Buffy was a little thrown when she felt his hands push her back. She resisted at first, not wanting to let go of him.

“Lay back.” He asked into her ear between harsh pants as he stopped moving.

Letting out a frustrated mewl she did as Spike asked while his hands remained on her hips. The moment her shoulder-blades came into contact with the cold surface of the isle he moved again.

Buffy eyes went wide at the feel of him inside of her in the new position. His cock was angled just the right way to hit the perfect spot inside her. He slowly slipped out of her and then back in, causing her to cross her eyes and open her mouth at the intense feeling that started building inside of her. He glided out one more time and paused. Buffy looked up at him to see the lust flooding his gaze for just a moment before he suddenly thrust hard into her.

“Oh, God!” She practically yelled as he started pounding into her with earnest once again; each stab causing the pressure to rapidly build inside her. Her hands blindly moved over the flat surface, desperate to cling to something.

“Buffy…” He groaned.

Spike was forced to close his eyes, clenching his jaw, his Adam’s apple bobbing up and down as he swallowed hard, trying to erase the image of Buffy screaming in front of him, sprawled on top of the isle, her small breasts bouncing erratically with each sharp, rapid trust of his hips.

“Oh, God, Spike!” She repeated over and over again as she came closer and closer to finding her release. “Spike, I-I…” She drew one last gasp, her back arching off the isle and as she felt her entire body start quivering the words tumbled breathlessly from her mouth: “I love you.”

The small sentence was enough to send him over the edge. His grip on her hips tightened; the energy that coursed through him making it almost impossible to breathe.

As the powerful effects of the orgasm drifted and were replaced by a perfect numbness Buffy looked up with hooded eyes to see Spike’s body jerk one last time, his mouth partially open, his eyes closed. She gathered all her strength to prop herself up on one elbow and sit up. Her trembling arms found his waist and wrapped themselves around it while she rested her flushed cheek on his sweaty chest; his hand instinctively coming up to worm itself into her dishevelled hair.

~+~

She let out a soft moan and a frown took over her perfectly shaped eyebrows as an annoying sunbeam insisted on shining over her face. She mumbled something unintelligible, bringing her hand to cover her sensitive eyes, but it was no use, consciousness was approaching at a galloping speed and soon she was awake. The first thing she became aware of was the hard body that was sculpted against her back; one long, marble arm draped across her waist – a very male, very familiar marble arm.

A ghost of a smile crept over her lips as she slowly turned in his embrace. When she was facing him, she squinted a bit and finally opened her eyes to be greeted by his sleeping form. The smile grew into a smirk as she watched him. His nose was slightly turned up as if he had dragged it over the pillow, his mouth partially open and untamed, bleached locks framed his pale face.

Her gaze dropped to his exposed chest and she couldn’t help nuzzling against it. She inhaled deeply, taking in his scent. It was perfect. This was perfect.

She lay in bed for a few more minutes, dwelling over the idea of waking him or not. She glanced at the alarm clock which read ten thirty in the morning. It was still early. Her mother wouldn’t be home until after lunch. It was only fair to let him sleep. God knew the energy he had spent the night before. The tenderness between her legs testified to it.

Reluctantly, she rolled away from him and got up, but not before placing a soft kiss on his elbow. She glanced at his sleeping shape one last time before heading for the bathroom.

~+~

The warm, crystal drops raced down her back as she leaned her forehead on the cold tile. God, it felt good! She remained perfectly still as water soaked her tired body. After a few minutes she turned off the shower and reached for the large bottle of body wash, popping open the cap. She placed a considerable amount of the blue gel onto the palm of her hand and put the bottle back in its place. She pressed her hands together, generating a bit of foam before moving to spread the gel over her chest. She gasped when she suddenly felt him pressing against her back; her skin being covered almost instantly by goose bumps. She hadn’t even heard him come in.

She remained perfectly still and silent as he stepped even closer, closing any remaining distance between them. But she wasn’t able to repress a gasp from escaping her parted lips when she felt something hard press against her ass. ‘Didn’t he have enough last night?’ She wondered. ‘Apparently, not!’

In complete silence, she watched as one hand came from behind her to find hers, borrowing a bit of body wash before resting on her lean stomach. He drew small circles over the taunt muscles, massaging them carefully as his other hand joined in.

She closed her eyes and savoured the feeling, swallowing hard when his fingers moved upwards to cup her breasts. A moan echoed in the room when his thumbs flickered over her nipples, causing them to grow even harder.

After a while, his left hand abandoned its respective globe to trail down, over her belly, and dip into the small nest of curls at the apex of her thighs. She found herself forced to press her hand against the tiles of the wall opposite her to find balance when his middle finger slipped between her folds to circle the small nubbin it found there. When he made a move to slide further into her sore centre she instinctively pressed her thighs together.

“Come on now, luv. Open up… Gotta make sure everything’s clean.” She heard his hoarse voice in her ear; his warm breath against her skin as he pinched her nipple.

She waited a few seconds, dwelling on her options, but when she felt him press against her clit once again her body made the choice for her as her thighs parted and gave him access.

She could feel him smirk as his hand was now free to explore. Soon, her other hand was joining its twin up against the wall as he continued to slowly massage her tender flesh, avoiding her opening as much as possible. Suddenly, all contact was lost. The hand on her breast, the one between her legs, both gone.

She opened her eyes to see his arm reaching for the showerhead, unhooking it while he turned on the water; his body pressing against her back as he reached for the faucet. After a few seconds, a warm spray of water was flowing against her breast, his free hand moving over her chest to help rinse the foam off. When her torso was completely clean his fingers drifter between her legs once again and proceeded with washing her.

She bit her lip, her eyes closing once again as the jet of water hit her clit while his fingers parted her folds, moving from the back to the front and back again. She held her breath, her eyes shooting open as his finger lingered over her back opening for a few seconds before returning to her clit. He moved expertly, rolling the small bud into a frenzy, feeling it grow harder with each stroke until he heard her gasp, her head dropping; her legs starting to buckle under her. Instinctively, he put the showerhead back in its place and wrapped his hands around her holding her securely against his body.

“You ok?” He asked from behind her.

She nodded meekly, mumbling something incomprehensible.

“Better get you all dry and warm.” He murmured, moving to turn off the water when she swirled around and attacked his mouth.

Her tiny fingers were suddenly wrapped around his cock and it was his turn to seek balance on the nearby wall as she started pumping him in earnest. He let his back press against the wall while her lips abandoned his to trail down to his neck.

“I want you.” She breathed.

As the shower sprinkled water against their bodies, her leg came up to hook itself around his hip.

“Buffy…” He swallowed hard when he looked down to meet her gaze and instead was greeted with the sight of her small hand working him hard. “Baby, you’re sore...” He managed to say after he closed his eyes.

“I don’t care.” She gasped as her hand abandoned him to meet its pair behind his neck. “I want you too much.” She said before bringing her mouth to his for a ravenous kiss.

His hands immediately grasped her hips and with one swift motion he turned them around. In a flash, Buffy found herself pressed between the wall and his wet chest, her legs wrapped tightly around his waist as his cock nudged at her entrance causing her to hiss into his mouth.

He immediately tore his lips away from hers.

“Buffy, we better…”

“I want to. Please.” She begged.

He kissed her again, sucking her lower lip into his mouth as he slowly moved his hips forward, his cock separating her labia to slip inside. Buffy’s facial muscles tensed, contracting to form a frown as she let out another hiss at the feel of him slowly pushing inside of her. Her nails dug into his shoulders as he moved.

“It’s almost there…” He coaxed her as he abandoned her mouth to whisper in her ear. ‘Christ, so fucking tight!’

It seemed to take forever to take him all the way in but eventually he was buried inside of her warmth and the pain cessed.

“Are you ok?” He breathed.

She nodded vehemently and kissed him. As their tongues battled, he started moving in and out of her and she moaned into his mouth. Soon, the feel of him stabbing that small spot on her inner wall made the pain almost disappear as her juices flowed freely, coating him, making it easier for him to slip inside her.

“God!” He growled as he broke the kiss. “You’re so…” gasp “wet.” Another sharp intake of air. “So tight.” His teeth clenched hard as he pushed inside again.

She clawed at his shoulder blades, her head arching back, her soaked locks clinging to the wall. With her throat completely exposed to his hungry mouth, he lapped at the small droplets that gathered at the hollow of her neck.

They moved in a slow but desperate pace, her cheek occasionally slapping against the tile when he pushed harder into her.

“Oh, god Spike! So good… it feels so…” She trailed off as his head dipped lower to capture one hard nipple into his mouth. “Ah!” She gasped when she felt his teeth scrap against it.

The combination of his mouth over her breast and his cock moving inside her was enough to unleash the pressure that had been building inside of her. She came with a loud scream.

It wasn’t long before Spike was quickly following behind her, his mouth abandoning her breast to mewl: “I love you, Buffy.” before thrusting into her one last time.

“I love you, too.” She murmured as she watched his face contort in pleasure.

After a few seconds, the energy seemed to have been completely sucked out of them and they found themselves slumping slowly to the floor. Buffy’s numb hand came up to turn off the water as it showered over them.

They remained silent for a while, eyes closed, mouths partially open.

Slowly, the strength returned to her weak limbs and she opened her eyelids to gaze at him. He sat with his back slouched against the tub.

“Tired yet?” She asked with a smile when he looked at her with a frown.

“Never.” He replied with a smirk of his own.

They gazed at each other for a moment before Spike finally spoke again:

“When’s your mom coming home?”

“After lunch.” Buffy replied as her fingers danced over his wet chest.

“I better get ready to go then…” He said in a weak voice. He really didn’t want to leave her.

“I guess so.” She uttered, her gaze dropping for a second before coming back up to stare at him mischievously. “But we still got a couple of hours.”

“God, you’re insatiable. I knew there was a reason why I love you.” He growled before capturing her lips for another kiss.

Author’s Note: And there you have it. All’s good in Spuffy land. Ah! Isn’t fanfic just a wonderful place? Wonderful, wonderful pink place. Love my pink place. Ah! I’m gonna miss this when it’s gone. It was such a great and light fic to write. Only three more chaps to go, make sure you enjoy them! ;)

Xander sat cross-legged on the stage, picking at his sneaker’s laces as he let out another long sigh.

“Where is she?” Cordy asked in an annoyed tone as she paced around in front of the teen.

“My guess is she’s not showing up… Again.” Angel supplied.

“Do you think something happened to her?” Buffy inquired from her spot in the front row.

Everyone shrugged at the question. Two whole weeks had gone by and nothing, not one rehearsal. Miss Addams had managed to miss every single one. The group was growing weary by now. Only in Sunnydale could a teacher be missing for two and a half weeks without anyone even noticing.

“I guess we better go then.” Xander offered, trying to mask a satisfied grin.

“Not yet. We’ve still got ten more minutes.” The cheerleader insisted plopping down on a seat next to Buffy’s.

“I don’t think she’s coming.” Buffy spoke up again, her eyebrows coming together for a sad frown.

“She *is* coming.” Cordy growled crossing her arms over her chest.

“Come on Cordy we’ve been coming here everyday for-“ Xander trailed off when he saw the small man walking briskly down the aisle to reach them. “Principal Snyder?”

“Harris.” The bald man practically spat.

“How nice of you to join us.” Xander started with mocking reverence. “We are so happy that our great-“

“Don’t push me Mr. Harris.” Snyder grumbled then, turning to the rest of the group announced: “There will be no play.” And without another word he turned on his heels and prepared to leave when an inhuman screech made him come to a halt. He turned around to see an extremely pissed Cordelia standing, her hands fisted at her sides.

“What do you mean – ‘there with be no play’?” She demanded as Buffy still stood up behind her.

“Miss Addams will not be able to come back to school until next week which means there will be no time to get the play ready, hence the logical conclusion – no play.” Snyder explained with arrogance and a hint of diabolical satisfaction.

“Well, we’ll postpone then.” Cordelia quickly offered.

“Yes, we can postpone.” Buffy agreed.

“Miss Chase, Miss Summers…” The way he said her name made Buffy’s stomach turn. “…there is no way in hell I will let that happen. There is no time, no money and *personally* I have absolutely no desire to see this charade see the light of day. It’s pathetic enough as it is. No need to drag it out in public.” With an aggravating smirk he prepared to leave once more when, in a flash, the angry cheerleader stalked up to him and towered over him, blocking his passage.

“Listen you aggravating, little, hairless shell of a man, my *father* practically owns this entire school and that includes *your* sorry ass, so don’t you talk to us about money, cause all I have to do is say one word to my father and he will cut his generous founding of this sorry excuse for a school in a blink of an eye.” She paused before adding. “This play *will* happen.” She assured him.

Everyone froze, including the small, bald man. After a few seconds he spoke:

“Well… Miss Chase… I-if you put it that way… But we still have the issue of time.”

“We can have the play after Spring break, right before prom.” Xander found himself saying.

“Yeah.” Angel supported as Buffy nodded.

Snyder glared at him for a second and then spat:

“Fine. We’ll schedule the play for the week before prom. Is that ok with you?” The man asked glaring up at the towering beauty in front of him.

“That would be great.” She replied haughtily.

~+~

Buffy let her tired body plop onto the front seat of the old car as the door closed behind her.

“Hey.” She greeted, giving Spike a quick peck on the lips as she pulled the seatbelt around her.

“Hey.” He replied with a smile as he watched her run her hands through her hair before letting out a sigh.

“No rehearsal again?” He asked.

“Nope.”

“Whatever happened to Miss Addams?” He questioned as he turned the keys in the ignition and backed away from the parking lot.

“Apparently, she got a really bad case of mono or something. That’s the latest rumour anyway.” Buffy supplied, gazing out the window as they drove home.

“Mono, huh?”

“Yeah, but she’s fine now, I think. She’ll be coming back on Monday.” She explained.

“Oh.” Spike mumbled trying to hide the disappointment in his voice.

“We waited for an hour before Mr. Snyder came bursting in to announce there would be no more play.”

“No more play? Really?” Before he could help it, the excitement over the news spilled into his voice. To mask it he added: “Too bad. Why?”

“Don’t pretend you’re not thrilled with that news.” She half-scolded, narrowing her eyes at him and swatting him on the arm.

“That obvious, huh?” He asked tilting his head, his eyes leaving the rode to look at her.

“Blatantly so.” She sighed. “But you can wipe that smirk off your face. The show will go on. When Snyder wanted to cancel the play Cordy got off her butt and decided to play super-hero. God, you should have seen her. She called him a little, hairless shell of a man.” She giggled as she remembered.

“That bird’s got stones, gotta hand it to her.” Spike smirked turning the wheel.

“Anyway, she threatened to ask her dad to cut all the funding of the school and obviously the little weasel backed down. The play has been postponed for the week before the prom.” She explained.

“What? You mean you’re going to have to smooch around with Angel till the end of the year?”

“Don’t worry, I’ll ask Miss Addams to keep the smooching to a minimal. Plus, I don’t think we have to rehearse those scenes anymore. There are other ones we have to get around. You do remember there is more to Romeo and Juliet than smooching, right?” She asked.

He grumbled something incomprehensible, frowning.

“Spike…”

“I know, I know…. He mumbled.

After a few seconds he added:

“I’m coming to your rehearsals from now on.”

“Spike!”

“Just to make sure.”

“Spike…”

“Oh, alright.” He gave in just as he pulled into her driveway.

They stepped out of the car and walked into the house.

“You’re mom home?” He asked seemingly uninterested in the reply.

“No.”

The smirk on his face grew twice as large and he added a mischievous glance as he moved closer to her. His arms came to wrap themselves around her waist but she suddenly swatted his hands away.

“But she’ll be home any minute.” She quickly added letting her backpack fall to the floor next to the couch.

Spike’s leer crumbled at that and he let out a pitiful sigh as he watched her walk about the room in search of something.

A few seconds passed as she continued to scan the room, looking under magazines and old clothes.

“Where is that remote? It’s amazing. I seem to have a natural gift for losing that thing.” She grumbled as she lifted one of the cushions that lay on the couch. “A-ha!” She said triumphantly letting herself plop down on the sofa.

Spike joined her and the two stared at the TV for a few minutes. Soon he was sitting right next to her, one arm flung over the back of the couch, to rest on her shoulder and the other… Buffy’s stare left the screen to find his right hand resting on her bare knee. Her eyes alternated between him and his straying limb, but his gaze remained fixed on the TV set as if nothing was happening.

She sighed and returned her attentions to the show. It didn’t last long, soon the infamous hand was making its way up her inner thigh, dipping under the hem of her summer dress and before she could protest his fingers brushed against the soft fabric of her underwear.

“Spike… what are you d-“ She stopped in mid sentence when his finger pressed against her cotton-covered clit.

His eyes finally left the screen to look at her as his hand wandered deeper between her legs and started rubbing harder against the apex of her thighs.

Letting out a hard breath, she was able to reach for him, grabbing his wrist in a pathetic attempt to stop his ministrations.

“Spike, my mom will be home any minute.” She breathed harshly when his lips dove to find the crook of her neck.

His reply made her gasp out loud when she felt his finger find the edge of her panties and bunch them up to one side. Her grip on his wrist became tighter.

“Spike, no.” She said without conviction as he traced the contours of her outer labia.

She swallowed hard while he continued to touch her; his low voice in her ear:

“Please, Buffy just for a little while…”

By now she was laying on her back on the couch, Spike’s hard body draped over hers, his mouth buried in the nape of her neck, his hand...

“Oh, God!” She mewled as his finger finally slipped into her and started moving in a slow, mind-blowing rhythm. “O-Ok, j-just for a little while…”

By then, the hand which had been grasping his wrist was far from trying to halt his movements and was actually helping him to pump in and out of her.

She arched her neck, letting her head fall over the edge of the couch as his mouth drifted lower over her chest. His free hand gripped one of the strings that held her dress and pulled it over her right shoulder, successfully exposing her breast to his tongue.

Buffy held her breath and trust her hips against his hand when he added a second finger. The pressure inside her grew quickly as his teeth scratched against her nipple, his hand cupping the underside of her breast to guide the small pebble into his mouth. She clenched her jaw when she felt him start to move faster, his thumb flickering over her clit while his two fingers thrust hungrily into her.

Her hand abandoned his wrist and dove between his curls, fisting itself into his hair, pushing his face against her breast.

“Spike, I’m almost… Oh, God I’m gonna-“ Her eyes shot open when she heard the doorbell ring.

Spike froze on top of her causing her to immediately gasp:

“No, please don’t stop, please!” She begged him, reaching for his wrist again and urging him to go on.

“But, Buffy, it could be your mom, she-“ He tried to warn her as he started moving his hand again.

“Please!” She whispered as the doorbell rang again.

Spike paused for a second and glanced at her flushed face. A leer appeared on his lips as his hand began to move faster and faster, his fingers incessantly stabbing the secret spot inside of her. His hand gripped her breast tighter and his teeth attacked her hardened nipple once again but, this time, his eyes never left her.

He watched as her face contorted in pleasure while he sucked at her small nubbin, the ringing in the background becoming more constant and repetitive as she came closer to the edge.

Finally, the ringing stopped and was replaced by the distant jingling of keys.

The fear of knowing that her mother was on the other side of the door and could catch them at any moment made the adrenaline rush through her veins and when she felt a third finger being shoved into her she was gone. Her mouth fell over second before she clenched her jaw for a silent scream, her thighs trapping his hand in a deadly grip as she came.

After a few seconds she felt her entire body go numb and all she wanted was to lay there forever but the sound of a metallic rattling coming from the other side of the door made her aware of her situation.

“You better go upstairs. If your mom sees you like that it’ll take her about two seconds to figure out what just happened.” Spike whispered with a soft smile as he helped her to her feet and directed her to the stairs.

Buffy nodded numbly:

“Tell my mother I went upstairs to take a shower?”

It was Spike’s turn to nod as he watched her climb the stairs on wobbly legs. God, he loved seeing her come.

The blonde teen adjusted the evident bulge in his pants, pulling his t-shirt out of his jeans to help cover it before he walked over to the door and opened it. As the wood slid back it revealed a confused Mrs. Summers struggling with a bundle of keys while trying to balance three large paper bags in her arms. She looked up to see Spike.

“Spike? You two are home?” She wondered as she stepped into the house.

“Sorry, Joyce. I was downstairs in the basement and Buffy’s upstairs taking a shower.” Spike explained.

“Oh.” The older woman said nodding slightly as she walked into the kitchen then she came to a halt. “Spike?”

“Yeah?”

“What were you doing in the basement?”

“Err…” His mind raced for an excuse. “Um… Buffy!” He started. “She thought she’d heard a mouse. She asked me to check it out.”

“Mice?” Joyce questioned worried.

“Don’t worry. I didn’t find anything.”

“Oh, good.” Mrs Summers replied relieved as she took the groceries out of the bags. “Spike, are you staying for dinner?”

“I don’t know, my father-“

“I talked to Rupert. He’s coming over later. I told him to call you at home to invite you, but since you’re here…”

“Ok, in that case I’m staying.” He smiled coming closer to the isle. “So is there anything I can help you with?”

“Could you chop up a few onions?”

“Sure.”

~+~

“So…” Spike started, throwing a quick glance at the kitchen to check on their parents before turning his attention to the plates he was setting on the table. “…How was the shower, luv?”

Buffy looked up at him with a content smile on her lips.

“Wonderful.” She replied snuggling against his chest when she finished placing the glasses.

Her hands encircled his waist to meet and rested on his lower back as she nuzzled her face against his t-shirt.

“I’m glad you liked it.” He said, taking in her scent as he buried his nose in her hair. “Have you figured out what you want for your birthday next week?”

At that he heard her groan against his chest.

“Don’t remind me…”

Spike frowned and pulled away to look at her for a second.

“My birthdays have a tendency to… how shall I put it… suck intensely?”

His eyebrows furrowed further. Buffy sighed once more and walked away to sit on the couch.

“There seems to be this tradition. Something always goes wrong. First it was the hamster-“

“Hamster?”

“Present. Died the same day.”

“Oh, sorry.” Spike replied sympathetically as he took a seat next to her.

“Then there was the fire.”

“Fire?”

“When I was thirteen I accidentally set my hair on fire when I went to blow out my candles.”

“Ouch.”

“Yeah, ouch.” Buffy grumbled. “Then the divorce. My father decided the best day to leave my mom was on my birthday. So you see, not many good memories there.”

“Oh, baby, I’m sorry.” Spike said apologetically as he leaned in to place a kiss on her temple.

“It’s ok. I’ve gotten used to it.”

“Well, I promise you this will be the best birthday ever.” Spike assured her.

“Yeah, with my luck we are probably going to have a major fight and break up.” Buffy pouted, crossing her arms over her chest like a spoiled child.

“Oh, I promise, no fights. No matter how much you try.”

“I try?” She asked seemingly outraged.

“You gotta admit all of our fights start because of you.”

“What?!” She questioned, turning to stare angrily at him

“See, exhibit A right here.” Spike pointed out.

“You started it.”

“No I didn’t.”

“Yes, you did.” She insisted.

“Buffy.” He murmured, tilting his head to the side and looking up at her with puppy dog eyes.

“Don’t look at me like that.” She pouted again.

“Why not?”

“I can’t stay angry at you when you look at me like that.” She replied.

“That’s the point.” He smirked as she swatted him across the arm.

“Dinner’s ready.” Joyce announced as she walked into the room.

~+~

The week raced by and soon her birthday came. Buffy nervously looked at the oven, tapping her nails on the counter as she waited.

“Is it ready yet?” She asked for the one-hundredth time.

“No, it takes time, Buffy.” Joyce replied as she chopped the salad.

“Are you sure? I think it’s burning. I’m gonna have a carbonized birthday cake again.” She pouted.

“It’s not going to burn. I promise.” Joyce assured her as the doorbell rang. “Now go open the door for your guests.”

“Just watch the cake, please.” Buffy begged, throwing one last glance at the oven before walking out of kitchen.

“Hey, Giles. Spike.” She greeted as she answered the door.

“Happy birthday.” Giles replied handing her a perfectly wrapped box before giving her a quick kiss on the forehead.

“Thanks.” She said letting the two men walk in.

The shopkeeper blushed and stuttered as the two teens exchanged a kiss:

“Well, I-I’ll go check on your mother.” And with that he quickly disappeared into the kitchen.

“Hey.” Buffy breathed, resting her forehead on his.

“Happy birthday, luv.” He whispered back, taking a small box from the pocket of his duster and handing it to her.

“Thank you.” She smiled widely as she stepped away from him to glance at her gifts.

She walked into the living room and left Giles’ present on the coffee table as she concentrated on Spike’s. She quickly unwrapped it to reveal white box. She glanced at him for a second before opening it. When she did, she found a thin metallic bracelet. Her fingers immediately when for the necklace she wore around her neck.

“They match.” She noted as she took the thin string from the box to place it around her wrist.

“Like it?” He asked. She could swear there was a hint of nervousness in his voice.

She looked up at him with a wide grin.

“I love it. It’s beautiful.” She breathed as she tried to put it on.

“Here, let me help.” He offered, taking the bracelet.

“Where did you find one exactly the same?” She wondered.

“They came together. I bought them at the same time.” He replied absentmindedly.

Her eyes went wide.

“You bought me my birthday present in November?” She questioned a bit surprised.

“Yeah.” He said when he finally finished putting on the bracelet.

“You bought me my birthday present in November?” She repeated.

“Yes. Why are you so shocked?” He asked with a frown.

“You brought me a present five months in advance?”

“Yes, Buffy.” He sighed.

She just stared at him wide-eyed.

A soft smile settled over his lips as his hand came to cup her cheek.

“When will you get it through that thick skull of yours that I’m not letting go? I’m not going anywhere.” He breathed before bringing her closer for a soft kiss.

The two were forced to pull apart when the doorbell rang again.

“This conversation isn’t over yet.” Buffy assured him with a smile as she stood up and walked over to answer the door.

“Happy birthday!” Willow and Xander shouted in unison and the two threw themselves on Buffy.

“Guys… huh… guys… choking here.” Buffy coughed.

“Oh, sorry, sorry.” Willow said overexcited as the two teens pulled way from her.

“Happy birthday.” Oz finally spoke as he walked in quickly followed by Cordelia.

“Hey, Buffy.” The cheerleader greeted unenthusiastically as she shoved a present in her direction. “From me and Xander.”

“Thanks, Cordy.” Buffy said leaning in to give her a kiss on the cheek, but the brunette quickly stepped away.

“Erg, no kissing.” She grumbled making a face.

Buffy shook her head and greeted Oz.

“It’s from me and Willow.” The short teen said when he handed her a gift.

“Thanks. Come in you guys. Spike’s in the living room.” Buffy invited them giddily as she floated after them. Maybe this birthday wasn’t going to be that bad.

Chapter 49

“Anyway…” Cordelia huffed. “I’m actually glad I got to play the Nurse. Juliet is just *so* dull and annoying. Such a spoiled brat, so not me. I just wouldn’t be able to bring realism to that character.” Cordy explained as she sipped from her glass.

“Thanks, Cordy.” Buffy replied sarcastically with a roll of her eyes.

“What?” The cheerleader questioned raising an eyebrow when everyone at the table seemed to be shaking their heads.

“So…” Giles, ever the diplomat, tried to change the subject: “The play seems to be back on track?”

“Yeah, Miss Addams was back last week and rehearsal started where we had left off.” Xander informed as he helped himself to another piece of cake when he suddenly received a sharp slap across his outstretched arm.

He frowned and glanced up at Cordy before quickly withdrawing his offending hand.

“Xander…” she scolded between clenched teeth. “You keep eating like that you’re not going to fit into your tuxedo for the prom.”

“Oh, come on Cordelia. Let the boy eat. He’s starving.” Joyce stepped in picking up the teen’s plate and serving him a large piece of the birthday cake.

The brunette didn’t reply simply gave her boyfriend a disgusted glance as she watched him shovelled the food into his mouth.

“It’s gonna be a bit complicated with Spring break in the middle but Miss Addams thinks it won’t be a problem as long as we come back refreshed and ready for some major practicing.” Buffy spoke up while she twirled the spoon in her hand.

She was leaning partially against Spike’s chest and she smiled inwardly when she felt him tighten his grip over her shoulder. A wave of peace washed over her. This was exactly how she wanted it - a perfect birthday with her friends and family and no impending disasters. She was just sorry to see it come to an end.

A comfortable silence filled the room; the only thing breaking it was the soft blues coming from the stereo until Joyce brought her hands together and stood up.

“I better get these dishes into the kitchen.” Turning to Giles she added: “Could you help me?”

“We’ll do it.” Willow quickly offered about to stand when Mrs. Summers’ hand on her shoulder halted her.

“No, don’t be silly. You kids stay here. The oldies are going to worry about the dish-washing.” The older woman assured her as she walked out of the room, hands filled with plates and glasses.

Giles quickly trailed after her taking with him the rest of the dishes.

“So…” Willow started: “What are you guys doing for the Spring break?” She asked overenthusiastically, her eyes sparkling.

“Oh, shut up already! We all know that you and shorty here are going on a road trip up to San Francisco.” Cordelia grumbled tilting her head towards Oz. She was tired of having to hear the redhead go on and on about the trip.

“I still can’t believe your mom let you.” Buffy said, a hint of envy slipping into her voice.

“Yeah, a whole week, just the two of you.” Spike joined in the melancholic tone.

“Arg!” Cordy exhaled sharply, letting her head drop in frustration. “The horror of being apart during one whole week.” She mocked and then added: “It’s just a stupid week, I’m sure you two aren’t going to die over it.

Buffy ignored the cheerleader’s mockery and nuzzled her face into Spike’s chest.

“Your father still set on having you visit the family in London, huh?” Oz spoke up.

Spike nodded with a painful look on his face.

“I don’t know why you guys can’t go during the summer.” Buffy grumbled. “My mom has some vacation time coming and we’d be able to go with you.” She ended her statement with a pout.

“It’s not my fault your mom has to work during Spring break. You could come.” He offered.

At that Buffy immediately pulled away shaking her head vehemently.

“Oh, no! I’m not going to face ‘the family’ alone.”

“You make us sound like the mafia.” Spike defended himself.

Willow giggled at that. The two blondes didn’t seem to be able to stop fighting… ever.

“Well, we better get going.” Cordelia suddenly said, but not before faking a long yawn.

Xander shook his head at his girlfriend’s lack of tact. ‘She’s definitely the world’s worst actress., he thought, glancing at his watch and realised that she was actually right.

“Yeah, we better go. It’s pretty late.”

“I think we’ll go too. You know, school and all tomorrow.” Willow said standing from the table.

Buffy pouted a bit but as she looked at the clock it read twelve thirty.

“Let’s just go say goodbye to your mom.” Xander offered.

The six teens walked over to the kitchen, Buffy and Spike leading the committee.

“Oh, God! Mom!”

“Da!”

The two blondes shouted in unison when they walked in to find the older couple in the middle of some major lip-locking action.

“That’s disgusting!” Buffy spat, twisting her facial muscles in revulsion.

“God, the image is burned in my retina. Great, I won’t be able to sleep tonight.” Spike grumbled as Joyce and Giles awkwardly pulled away from each other.

“Kids! What are you doing here?” Mrs. Summers blurted out before she had a chance to realise just how stupid the question was.

“We just came to say goodbye. We’re leaving.” Xander bravely spoke up.

“Oh, right, right.” Giles said nervously as he straightened his shirt. “We should be going too, William. After all it is a school night.”

A collective snicker came from the group of friends at the sound of Spike’s real name and Xander actually whispered mockingly:

“William…”

The Brit narrowed his eyes at his friend but ignored him as they walked into the hallway.

“Well, it was nice having you all here.” Joyce thanked, a flush still reddening her cheeks.

“Thanks, Mrs. Summers. Dinner was wonderful.” Turning to Buffy, Willow continued: “Happy birthday, Buffy.”

“Thanks, Wills.”

“Goodbye, Buffy. Hope you liked the present.” Oz uttered monotonically but with a small smile.

“It was great, thanks Oz.”

“Bye. See you tomorrow, Buffster.” Xander said giving her a bear-hug before crossing the threshold.

“Bye.” Cordy quickly waved and followed her boyfriend.

Buffy watched as the group disbanded. Out of the corner of her eyes she saw Giles giving Joyce a quick peck on the lips as they said goodbye.

“So, pet, was it everything you wanted?” Spike’s voice snapped her out of her daze.

“And more.” She smiled giving him a kiss.

“See you tomorrow.” He said as he turned to Joyce. “Thanks for dinner.”

“You’re welcome.” Mrs. Summers smiled.

Mother and daughter stood on the porch as they watched their guests leave. Joyce furrowed her brow when she heard Buffy sigh deeply.

“You ok, honey?”

“Yeah…” She whispered staring at the quickly disappearing pair as she hugged herself; a content smile on her lips. “I’m great.”

~+~

Buffy nervously tapped her fork on her tray as she scanned the room for the one-hundredth time. The cafeteria was packed, or maybe it just seemed that way. A week of Spring break makes a room filled with teenagers seem very crowded.

“What’s up with the Buffster?” Xander asked Willow when he failed to get an answer from the blonde girl.

“Looking for Spike.” The redhead replied shrugging.

His name seemed to snap her out of her search and she glanced back at her friends.

“Don’t you and Spike have English together on Mondays?” Xander asked raising a curious eyebrow.

“Spike’s plane only arrived about two hours ago.” Buffy replied glancing at her watch.

“So the Brit’s coming back from the Homeland, huh?”

Buffy was about to answer his question when a flash of white hair appeared from between the sea of teenagers blocking the entrance to the cafeteria. The petite blonde practically jumped in her seat as she strained to catch another glimpse of him. One week, one whole week without seeing him was just too much.

She held her breath when she saw him push through the crowd and scurry towards the familiar table.

Spike inhaled sharply when he finally saw her sitting there. She was more beautiful than ever. God, he’d missed her.

“Hey!” He gasped, a bit out of breath from the jog as he quickly took his seat next to Buffy.

He never gave her a chance to reply as his arm quickly wormed itself around her waist and pulled her in for a demanding kiss.

Buffy’s small fingers curled themselves into the lapels of his coat as they kissed.

The hard sound of people clearing their throats brought them back to reality and they were forced to break away.

“Two seconds in the same room and they’re already into the tonsil cleaning.” Cordy sighed as she dropped her tray next to Xander’s.

“Hey, guys.” Spike breathed, his eyes never leaving Buffy’s as his hand silently slipped under the hem of her shirt to caress her stomach.

“Spike. Man it’s nice to be acknowledged.” Xander said sarcastically as the two blondes continued to stare at each other.

There was an awkward silence as the tension between the two became evident.

“So…” Xander started. “How’s the Homeland? The Royal family? Prince Charles?”

“Still there and still snogging Camilla Parker-Bowles.” He replied uninterested. “You wanna…?” He asked Buffy as he tilted his head towards the door.

She immediately nodded and the two stood up, quickly making their way out of the cafeteria.

The remaining teens that sat around the table just looked at each other.

~+~

Buffy gasped for breath when she felt her back being slammed against the row of lockers. His mouth immediately assaulted hers; his eager hands quickly trailing down her lower back to cup her behind forcing her to press her pelvis against his.

“Mmm…” Buffy moaned into his mouth as she tried to speak while her fingers erratically gripped the back of his neck, worming themselves into his now dishevelled locks.

“Missed you…” moan “So… bloody much.” He growled abandoning her lips to nibble at the tender flesh of her neck, his hand hooking itself under her thigh and bringing it against his hip in a desperate attempt to feel her closer.

Buffy was about to jump up and wrap her legs around his waist when the sharp sound of high-heel footsteps broke their daze. Amazingly, they were able to pull apart just as Miss Addams turned the corner into the hall they were in.

“Ah, Mr. Giles! Just the person I was looking for.” The young counsellor said brightly, ignoring the evident flush that marred the two teenager’s faces.

Still a bit stunned from Buffy’s touch he blinked a couple of times and cleared his throat before speaking:

“Yeah?”

“I’d like to see you in my office, please.” She replied with her usual artificial grin.

“Now?” The desperation was evident as his glance alternated between his reddened girlfriend and the teacher.

“Yes, now.” She spoke briskly as she hocked her arm around Spike’s and dragged him away from Buffy. “I’ve been meaning to talk to you for some time now.” She stopped in mid-stride and turned to glance at Buffy over her shoulder. “Miss Summers I’ll be expecting you at the theatre after school for rehearsal.”

And with that she left, taking Spike with her and leaving a frowning Buffy in the deserted hall.

~+~

The front door swung open to let a hurried Buffy race up the stairs.

“Buffy? Is that you?” Mrs. Summers called from the kitchen.

“Yeah, mom. I’ll be in my room.” Buffy shouted back as she took the stairs two steps at a time.

She plopped down on her bed and immediately reached for the phone. Dialling the now familiar number, she waited.

“Hello?” A low voice answered from the other side of the line.

“Hey, it’s me.” She replied quickly.

“Hey, luv. You home from rehearsal?” Spike asked.

“Yeah.” Buffy paused a bit, catching her breath before asking: “What did Miss Addams want to talk to me about?”

“Hum… nothing.” He lied unconvincingly.

“Spike…” Buffy warned him.

“Let’s just say I’m the most recent victim of the ‘too little extra-curricular activities’ excuse to torture unsuspecting teenagers.” He grumbled.

He pressed his fingers against the bridge of his nose when he heard her suppress a giggle.

“What’d she have you do?” She finally enquired.

“Not saying.”

“Oh, come on. Can’t be that bad. Is it something to do with the play?” She asked eagerly as she pictured the various opportunities they’d have to spend time together if it were true.

“Wish. But no. It’s worse. A lot worse.” He mumbled.

It was clear that he didn’t want to talk about it but she pushed the subject.

“Come on, tell me.” She practically begged as she played with the cord of her phone.

There was a moment of pause before he blurted out:

“I’m on the bloody Prom Committee.”

“What?!” She asked chuckling a bit.

“Don’t laugh.”

“You’re on the Prom Committee. You’re going to organise the Prom?” She questioned surprised.

“Yeah.” He groaned almost imperceptibly.

“You’re joking, right?”

“Do I bloody well sound like I’m joking?” He growled.

“So you’re going to work on the decoration and the theme and all?”

“Yeah. Can we change the subject now?” He grumbled.

“No. This is just too funny.” She smiled into the phone.

“Funny, huh? Know what’s funny? Guess what weekdays the Committee gets together.”

“I dunno.” Buffy frowned, not know where he was going with it.

“Tuesdays and Thursdays aka the only weekdays you don’t have those stupid rehearsals.”

“Oh!” Buffy sighed. “Well, we still have weekends.”

“And that’s where the bonus comes in. We also meet on Saturdays.”

“What?!”

“And the only reason we’re not meeting on Sundays is cause I threatened to beat Jonathan to a bloody pulp if he even suggested that to Miss Addams.” Spike explained.

“Jonathan’s on the Committee again?”

“Yeah, guess who’s president.” He never gave her a chance to reply. “Andrew.”

Spike groaned again when he heard her giggle once again from the other side of the line.

~+~

The days raced by and contrary to what would have been expected with the quickly approaching summer they seemed to grow shorter and not longer. There was just too much work and too little time. Between school, rehearsal and Committee meetings Buffy and Spike barely saw each other, the only exceptions were when Mrs Summers would invite Giles and Spike over to dinner and even then they had little or no time alone.

Buffy pressed the tips of her fingers against her temples as she sat on the first row. She didn’t even bother to look up as Cordelia painfully delivered her lines to a struggling Xander, as he pulled and pushed at his clothes.

“I can’t do this. This dress is too tight.” Xander suddenly protested.

“That’s cause you’re eating like a pig.” Cordy shot.

“I’m not. These clothes shrunk.” The boy protested as he desperately tried to adjust the fabric around his stomach.

“You eat like a…“

The sharp sound of Cordelia’s voice seemed to drift into nothingness as Buffy slowly dozed off.

“Miss Summers!”

Buffy was snapped out of her haze as two fingers were snapped in front of her face.

“If you don’t mind, I would prefer it if you didn’t drift off into lala land during rehearsals.”

“Oh, sorry.” Buffy quickly sat up in her seat, pushing her hair behind her ears. “I was just-”

But she wasn’t able to finish her sentence as she was cut off by a loud clapping sound coming from Miss Addams, who had already made her way up on stage:

“People, people. At this rate we’ll never be ready on time. I mean, what do I have to do to get your full attention. Concentrate, concentrate.” She clapped her hands energetically once more. “I want stamina, stamina! Now! And you” She suddenly pointed at the boy who was working the lighting. “Those lights are too strong. Do you want my actors to faint from dehydration in the middle of their lines?” The boy shook his head vehemently. “No, I didn’t think so. Bring them down a notch.” She waited for the teen to oblige and then added: “That’s better. Good. Now, let’s start from the top.”

A collective groan echoed through the room.

“What?” Miss Addams asked angrily.

No one dared to speak up.

“Good. Oh and Xander. Lay off the chocolate. You get any chubbier we are going to get you into a corset.”

The brunette’s eye widened in fear.

“Now. Start over. Miss Summers, it’s your queue.”

Buffy groaned, pushing herself off the seat and hopped onto the stage.

~+~

He rested his elbows over his thighs and dropped his head to his hands. This was torture at its most painful. Why did they now have to meet on Fridays too?

Two hours had gone by and the group of nerds were still dwelling on what would be the official colour of banners that were to adorn the halls.

“Blue is so much better. Blue like the sea.” A shy, freckled girl offered as she adjusted her glasses.

“No, yellow is *so* much cooler.” Jonathan insisted. “Yellow, sun, summer. It’s perfect.”

Noting that Spike had been quiet all afternoon Andrew asked nervously:

“What do you think, Spike?”

The bleached teen pressed the heels of his hands against his closed eyelids before looking up and letting out a sigh.

“Wha’?”

“The colour for the banner.”

“I don’t know. Black?” He said shrugging.

His offer was met by a collective shaking of heads.

“Black? It’s not a funeral, it’s the prom.” Kathy spat arrogantly.

Spike glared at the girl. She was probably the most aggravating member of the Committee. Ever since she had made some snotty comment about Buffy he had instantly come to dislike her. And if that wasn’t enough, she seemed to be obsessed with cleanliness. She had this fixation with organising and labelling everything perfectly that just got on his nerves. She just tried too hard to be nice and pleasant. It was disconcerting. And plus, she was just *too* peppy.

“Ha, Spike is so funny.” Andrew said nervously as he tried to relieve the tension. “S-so we’ll just go for a vote between blue and yellow.”

“Oh, for fuck’s sake. You’ve voted on it already. It was tie remember?” Spike growled.

Everyone in the room froze.

“Fine. What was the choice?” He sighed.

After a moment of pause Jonathan piped up:

“Y-yellow or blue.”

“Fine. I vote blue. Done. Next.” Spike tried to speed up the process.

“Blue it is.” Andrew smiled anxiously as he scribbled something down on his pad. “Next order of business… the font colour on the banner. Any suggestions?” The blonde asked scanning the group.

Spike simply rolled his eyes and let his head drop once again. This was going to be one of the longer meetings.

~+~

Buffy dragged her feet as she arrived home.

“Hello, honey.” Mrs Summers greeted her from the kitchen. “How was rehearsal? You look tired.”

“Hey.” She mumbled back as she took a seat around the isle. “Miss Addams is intent on killing us. I’m sure. It’s all just an elaborate scheme.”

“Well, I left the gallery late and I didn’t have the chance to buy anything so you’ll be happy to know that we are going to have pizza for dinner.” Joyce smiled when she saw a small sparkle in her daughter’s eyes.

“That’s great mom.” Buffy replied weakly. “I’m gonna go take a shower.”

“Ok, sweetie.”

~+~

Hobbling her way into her room Buffy let her soaked, towel-wrapped body drop onto the soft mattress. She closed her eyes and sighed deeply when the phone rang. She refused to move and simply outstretched her arm, picking up the receiver and bringing it to her ear.

“Hello?” She mumbled.

“Hello, luv.”

A tired smile eased its way onto her lips at the sound of his voice. God, how she missed it. The only chances she got to see him were occasional encounters in the hall or during English class which left a lot to be desired.

“You’re home already?” Spike asked.

“Just got in and had a shower.” She replied.

“How was rehearsal?”

“Inhuman torture.” She said simply. “You?”

“Same. But there are good news. We have already decided on the colours for the banners. Background blue, letters yellow. We postponed the decision on which font to use for the next meeting.” He grumbled sarcastically.

“Poor baby.” Buffy offered sympathetically.

“You tired?”

“Dying.”

There was a moment of silence.

“I miss you.” He breathed.

‘God, his voice!’

“Miss you too.”

“I wish I was there. I wish I could touch you.” He paused and inhaled sharply. “I miss your scent, baby.”

Without noticing it, her hand secretly slipped under the towel, which was still wrapped around her, to caress her stomach.

“It’s just been too long since I’ve touched you.” Spike continued to speak, his breath starting to come in hard gasps.

“I want you so much.” Buffy breathed as her fingers slowly drifted lower and finally slipped between her legs.

Chapter 50

Buffy pressed her sweaty palms together. How had she ended up here? The days had flown by her and now she was standing there, sneaking a peek from behind the heavy red curtain that hung from the ceiling. She felt her stomach turn when she saw the first people entering the room and coming down the narrow corridors to find their seats.

‘Oh, god, oh, god. This was a bad idea. I don’t wanna do this. I don’t wanna do this.’ She thought to herself as she felt her heart practically beat in her throat, making it almost impossible to breathe.

She jumped up when she felt a strong hand resting on her shoulder. She jerked up straight and turned to meet a pair of brown eyes that stared down at her.

“Nervous?” Angel asked with a sympathetic smile.

“I don’t think I wanna do this anymore.” She murmured swallowing hard, her eyebrows coming together for a painful frown as her lower lip jutted out.

“Everything’s going to be fine. You’re going to be amazing. As always.” He assured her as she let out a long sigh. “Just relax.”

“Thanks.” She breathed a little calmer.

Her heartbeat skipped a beat once more when Miss Addams’ hysterical voice was heard.

“What are you two doing here? You have to get your hair fixed, Buffy. Now, now, now. Hurry.” She shushed her teen, waving both hands dismissively towards the backstage before turning around and shouting at a scrawny, blonde boy: “And you! Get those lights working tonight or I’ll make sure you never graduate from high school. Mr. Harris, why are you still fumbling around with that dress? Put it on and stop…” Her voice drifted away as she was engulfed by the crowd of amateur actors standing at the sides of the stage.

“I better get going.” Buffy said, lowering her gaze to the floor as she started walking away.

She was halted by Angel as he circled his fingers around her arm. She turned to face him with a quizzical look on her face.

“I’m sorry.” It was barely audible.

Buffy frowned, a bit confused.

“About what?”

“About Dru.” He swallowed hard as he continued: “I was a complete idiot. And I can’t even say I didn’t mean to hurt you cause…” He paused letting out a frustrated sigh. “I don’t even know why I did it, you know?”

She remained silent as he spoke.

“You’re an amazing person Buffy and if there is one thing I know I’m going to hate myself for for the rest of my life it’s the fact that I screwed up what we had.”

“Angel…” She tried to speak but he cut her off.

“I don’t know why I started that thing with Dru. I mean… She’s a complete nutcase!”

Buffy tried to repress a smile but it was impossible and soon the two were chuckling.

“I really am sorry.” He finally said after a moment of pause.

“It’s ok, Angel. I don’t hate you anymore.”

“Good.” He smiled back at her.

There was an awkward moment of silence until Buffy moved, pointing at the backstage:

“I better go now. You know. Hair and all!” She reminded him as she started to turn.

“Ok. See you in a few.” He replied, letting her go.

Buffy rushed towards the backstage. She gasped when she bumped into Spike. His eyes were fixed on Angel’s retreating form.

“Spike! What are you doing here?” She questioned as she followed his gaze.

“Just came to wish you luck.” He muttered with a distant stare.

A wave of worry washed over her as she saw the look on his face.

“Spike, that wasn’t what… I mean we were just-“

“Relax, Buffy. I heard what Peaches said.” He said calmly as a soft smile spread across his lips. “Just can’t believe he’d do that. Maybe he’s not that bad after all.”

“Thank God!” She sighed in relief. “I thought we were going to have another one of those fights.”

He continued to smile as his hand came to push a rebellious strand of her blonde hair behind her ear. His fingers lingered on the nape of her neck, his thumb brushing against her cheek.

“You ready?” He asked in a soft voice as he stared down on her.

“I am now.” She breathed leaning into his hand. God, she missed his touch.

Soon, her lips were brushing against his palm, placing light kisses on the hard skin there.

Spike was forced to close his eyes for a second as he searched for control. It had been too long… ‘Too bloody long!’

“I miss you.” She whispered.

His eyelids fluttered open to gaze at her.

“MISS SUMMERS! What are you still doing here?” Miss Addams’ screeching tone put an end to their peaceful moment. “You have to be in make up, and your hair.” The woman let out a frustrated sigh and rolled her eyes in disgust as she regarded the teenagers dishevelled mass of blonde locks. “And Mr. Giles, you’re place is not backstage. Go take your place in the audience, please.” She instructed as she pulled Buffy by her arm and practically dragged her away from Spike.

“I’ll see you after the play.” She shouted back at him.

“Break a leg, luv.” He yelled as he watched her being swallowed by the crowd.

~+~

“There you are. We were getting worried about you.” Mrs. Summers said smiling as she saw the approaching teen.

“I was backstage saying hi to Buffy.” Spike explained.

“Well, we better get to our seats.” Giles recommended as he lightly directed Joyce down the narrow corridor.

Spike trailed behind.

“Mrs Summers!” Willow called out waving happily.

The three quickly made their way through the rows and sat next to the redhead.

“How is she?” Willow immediately asked as Spike sat next to her.

“Kinda nervous.” He answered.

“Hello, Willow.” Joyce greeted as she sat next to Spike, Giles settling on her left.

“Hey, Joyce. Giles.” She greeted leaning forward to meet the couples’ gaze before turning back to Spike: “Did you see Oz?”

“No, I got kicked out before I could check on the others. I only saw the whelp, though. You’re going to pop when you see him. You know, he actually looks good as a woman.” The Brit mocked.

Willow giggled and was about to reply when a ringing sound announced that the play was about to start.

All four sat back and stared up at the stage as the curtain rose slowly.

~+~

Willow felt her heartbeat increase a little as she recognized the familiar passage.

“With love's light wings did I o'er-perch these walls; / For stony limits cannot hold love out, / And what love can do that dares love attempt; / Therefore thy kinsmen are no let to me.” Angel recited, with a surprising lack of melodrama. He had actually improved.

She looked sideways to catch a glance of Spike from the corner of her eyes. He had both hands firmly gripping his knees, the complete lack of colour in his knuckles testified to the strength he was using. Her gaze travelled upwards to find his jaws tightly clenched together. His muscles twitched as he watched Buffy and Angel exchange a quick kiss on stage, his nostrils flaring as he inhaled deeply.

Mrs. Summers nervously cleared her throat as she noticed Spike narrowing his eyes at the scene that played out in front of him. She tried to ignore the obvious discomfort that surrounded the four of them as her eyes returned to the stage.

‘Breathe in, breath out, breathe in, breathe out. It’s just a play, it’s not real. It’s just a play, it’s not real.’ He kept silently saying to himself but when their lips met for another kiss he felt like he was going to explode. He closed his eyes and tried to focus on something else. ‘Just a play, just a- I’m gonna kill him. I’m bloody well gonna kill him.’ He growled inwardly as he opened his eyes to see the romantic pair share one last kiss on stage.

Willow, Joyce and Giles let out a collective sigh of relief when the painful scene finally came to an end. Spike loosened his grip on his knees rubbing them gently against the denim as he tried to wipe the sweat from his palms.

“I-It wasn’t so bad.” Willow didn’t even know where she had gotten the courage as the words left her mouth.

Spike looked at her sideways and narrowed his eyes at her.

“Sorry.” She whispered weakly, her attention returning to the stage.

~+~

Buffy remained frozen on the hard stone, her eyes closed as the last lines of the play were delivered.

“A glooming peace this morning with it brings; / The sun, for sorrow, will not show his head: / Go hence, to have more talk of these sad things; / Some shall be pardon'd, and some punished: / For never was a story of more woe / Than this of Juliet and her Romeo.”

Silence filled the room for a few seconds as the curtain fell and then a roar of applause carried through the thick fabric. Buffy opened her eyes to find Angel standing over her.

“We did it.” He told her with a smile and an outstretched hand.

She gladly took it jumping off the sarcophagus to stand next to him. Then everything seemed to happen at double speed. Suddenly, she was centre stage again, facing a cheering crowd. She felt both her arms being lifted in the air, Angel on one side, Xander on the other.

Her eyes scanned the audience for the first time since the beginning of the play. She searched blindly as the lights burned her eyes a bit. Her smile grew when she finally found him. He was standing up, clapping wildly and whistling. Soon, Willow, Joyce and Giles joined in and finally the entire audience rose to give them a standing ovation, including a reluctant Principal Snyder.

She didn’t even notice when she was pulled closer to the edge of the stage by Xander and Angel and forced to bow for a second time. When she straightened up again, her gaze was locked with Spike’s and she felt her heat leap, her eyes welling up when she saw him mouth: ‘I love you.’

‘I love you too.’ She was about to whisper back when the curtain fell in front of her, forcing them to break eye contact.

Suddenly, pandemonium broke loose. Everyone was around her congratulating her, giving her annoying pecks of the cheek, suffocating hugs when all she wanted to do was jump off the stage and run to him.

“You were amazing!” A girl shouted hysterically, flinging herself into her arms and almost toppling Buffy over.

“Everything was perfect.”

“Oh, my God! I can’t believe we made it.” Another one yelled.

Buffy didn’t know what to do, she simply nodded; a plastic smile plastered on her lips as she tried to gently push people out of the way.

“Congratulations, Miss Summers. I guess you did it.” Miss Addams spoke up as she seemed to miraculously materialize in front of her.

“Thanks.” Buffy gasped a bit out of breath as she felt herself being pulled and pushed in every direction.

After a few minutes of excruciating agony she finally seemed to be able to push her way through the crowd, as the attentions now seemed to be focused on Angel. She scrambled away, lifting her dress as it got in the way. She blindly pulled and pushed at the curtain, trying to find the edge of it, but it didn’t seem to want to be found. Finally, when she had had enough of it and was about to duck under it, she was suddenly pulled up to her feet. In a flash, she found herself in a dark corner of the backstage. The hard ropes dropped from the ceiling to frame her, the clattering of the crowd fading in the distance as her back pressed against a wall and he stood breathless in front of her.

“Found you.” Spike gasped gazing blindly at her. “I thought you were-“

He was cut off as Buffy flung her arms around him and smashed her mouth against his for a demanding kiss. She slipped her tongue between his parted lips and found his. Her fingers quickly weaved themselves into his hair, fisting her hand into the bleached mass of curls as she desperately tried to deepen the kiss but he pulled away and stared down at her. An almost predatory spark lit his eyes as he breathed, his left hand cupping her flushed cheek:

“You were amazing, luv. Bloody amazing.”

It was only then that she realised he was holding something. A soft smile lit her face when as she glanced down at the now completely crumpled flowers he held in his right hand. She had been so happy to see him that she hadn’t even noticed them.

“I love you.” She exhaled sharply, still breathless and with glassy eyes.

“I love you too.” He whispered, handing her the flowers before leaning in to kiss her.

It started off slow, but it soon built into a frenzy as the weeks of physical separation finally took their toll on them. Soon the floor around their feet was paved with petals and scrunched up stems as they kissed passionately.

She moaned and mewled against his lips as her arms wrapped tightly around his neck, her right leg hooking itself around his hip as his hand slipped under the thick dress to cup her outer thigh and bring their bodies closer together.

“I missed you…” Spike gasped, tearing his mouth away from her to trail rough kissed down the side of her neck. “…so much.” It was almost a growl as the desire made is voice dry and hoarse. “So bloody much.” He emphasized the last word by trusting his hips against hers, causing the hard bulge in his pants to rub against her swollen clit.

“Oh, God.” She exhaled sharply, her mouth falling open, her eyes rolling back in their sockets as she let her head drop back, exposing her neck to his ravenous mouth.

He moved his hips in small circular motions while his hand wandered further up her thigh to reach the edge of her panties. Without warning two intruding fingers slipped inside to brush against her swollen and wet labia.

“Spike, I want you.” She was able to breathe out.

Her grip on his hair becoming tighter as his fingers expertly explored her.

“I want you so much.” He grunted back while his free hand moved up her body to cup her breast.

She was completely lost in the feeling, oblivious to the chatting and partying happening just a little over ten feet away from them. In that dark corner of the backstage all there seemed to exist was Spike and her. She opened her eyes to see the crowd of teenagers celebrating and cheering their success. She didn’t care. All she wanted at that moment was him.

“Spike…” She was cut off when his fingers gripped the edged of her dress and yanked it down exposing her left breast to the rough touch of his hand. “We need to…” She tried to focus on what she wanted to say, but it seemed impossible as she felt him finger her clit and twist her nipple. She swallowed hard and pulled at his hair, forcing him to look up at her. “Utility closet.” Was all she could say while tilting her head to her left.

With glassy eyes, Spike turned to see a small door just a few feet from them. Without a word he cupped her thighs and propped her up until her legs were wrapped around his waist. Between passionate kisses and grunts he was able to carry her over to the door. He struggled a bit with the handle, trying to keep his balance and not drop her at the same time. Within a few seconds it opened and the two teens practically stumbled inside as Spike kicked the door closed behind him.

The two scrambled their way into the confined space. Spike’s mouth quickly returning to hers, his body pressing against her, causing her to tumble backwards until her calves hit something behind her – a large cardboard. His hands were suddenly on her legs again, lifting her and placing her on top of the box. Their lips never parted as he pushed his hips between her spread thighs, his fingers gripping her dress and hiking it upwards, exposing her perfectly shaped legs.

In the meantime, Buffy’s own hands were occupied as she pulled at his duster until it pooled to the floor and her attention was then fixed on the buttons of his shirt. She struggled with them, letting out a frustrated mewl when she failed in her task. Realising her predicament, Spike stepped away from her just long enough to get his shirt off, exposing his pale chest to her wandering fingers.

Hungrily, his mouth attacked her neck, slipping downwards until his lips met her uncovered nipple. Buffy arched into his mouth, gasping when his teeth nipped at the sensitive skin and while his hand gruffly cupped her other breast. Much like he had done with its twin, he tugged at the fabric that covered it until the pale flesh was bare. He pulled away for a second and looked at her. She was absolutely beautiful. Her cheeks flushed, her long, dishevelled, blonde locks framed her face, her mouth was partially open, her heaving breasts lifted high, popped out from the constraining dress as she pulled ragged breaths from her lungs. He couldn’t take it anymore. He needed to have her now.

His trembling hand quickly found its way between her legs, gripping her panties. As he tugged at the delicate fabric, Buffy was busy working on the fastening of his jeans. After a few excruciating seconds, they managed to free themselves of those obnoxious clothing barriers. Her knickers were abandoned on the floor next to his duster and shirt, while his jeans were bunched around his knees.

“I want you so much.” He gasped as he gripped her hips and positioned himself between her thighs again.

He cupped her ass lifting her slightly, just enough to angle her entrance for his hard cock. Their gazes met again as she felt the head brush against her soaked slit. She swallowed hard as she waited for him to make a move. An eternity seemed to filter by before he finally pushed his hips forward.

She moaned, as his eyes rolled back and his jaws clenched together.

“Jesus, so bloody tight.” He grunted as he dared to look down at the spot where their bodies were connected.

He had only managed to slip the head in and already he could feel her heat engulf him, her muscled clamping down around him. The weeks of forced celibacy had definitely had their effect on her.

She took a deep breathe as she waited for him once again. She saw him close his eyes for a second, his nostrils flaring a bit before he pushed inside of her, forcing her muscles to part and accommodate his girth.

“Fuck.” She swore, her nails digging into the tender flesh of his shoulders as she bit her lower lip.

It was too much. She was so…

“So tight…” He whispered again as he leaned his head in her chest.

“Spike, please…” She begged; anxious to feel him moving inside of her. “Oh, God.” She growled when he started moving in and out of her in a slow and steady pace, his hands still gripping her cheeks.

Spike’s mouth fell open, his lips trailing across her breasts as he pushed in and out of her. She used her grip on his shoulders for leverage and met every thrust.

Soon they were moving at a rapid, hungry rhythm, his hips smacking against the inside of her thighs as he shoved into her.

‘It’s not gonna last.’ Spike knew it. He wouldn’t last. It had been too long since he had been inside of her warmth. “Fuck.”

His thumb hastily slipped between her legs to find the small bundle of nerve at the apex of her sex. He rubbed it in fast circular motions causing her to let out a strangled cry of pleasure. Not content with this, his mouth attacked her left nipple, sucking it roughly between his lips, rolling his tongue over it while his free hand worked the right, tugging at it.

“Oh, God Spike. Don’t stop, don’t stop. So… Ah!” She cried out as he thrust harder into her.

“Buffy…” He moaned between nibbles.

“I missed you so much. Needed you. Spike, I’m…” She was forced to stop in mid sentence as the orgasm that had been building inside of her suddenly exploded.

He tore his mouth away from her breast, clenching his teeth together when he felt her inner walls start to spasm around him. That was it. He thrust one more time into her before he was finally coming with a hard growl.

“I love you.” He mumbled, letting his forehead drop to her heaving chest when his orgasm subsided.

“I love you.” She murmured breathless as she rested her chin on top of his head.

They remained that way for a few moments, wrapped in each other’s arms as their uneven pants subsided.

Buffy’s eyelids fluttered open when she felt him lick the sweat from her chest. The sweep of his tongue was almost imperceptible at first, but it soon became clear that he wasn’t satisfied yet.

‘Thank God!’ she thought as her fingers lazily traced small circles on his back.

She held her breath when she felt him start to move his hips. He was hard again already.

He let his mouth travel up the slender curve of her neck until he found her mouth. He heard her moan against him before her hands pushed him slightly away. He frowned and immediately moved back to look at her.

“You don’t want to…?”

She smiled at him coyly.

“Don’t you want…” she started, looking up at him from under mischievous eyelids.

He was confused.

“Don’t I want what?”

She never answered, simply pushed him further until he slipped out of her and she heard him partially repress a groan when she slipped off the box. She ran her finger over the sharp edges of his jaw before reaching for his left hand and placed it over her right thigh. She pulled at her dress until his palm was brushing her bare skin.

He was forced to close his eyes when she lead his hand up and back over the round contours of her ass. He couldn’t help but cup the supple flesh. He felt her move and opened his eyes to find her with her back turned to him.

“Jesus, Buffy!” He grunted when she stepped back and rubbed herself against his straining cock.

Her hand abandoned his and reached back for his cock. She tugged at it a few times, eliciting a guttural moan from him. He watched helpless as she bent over the box and consequentially opened herself up to him as she brought him closer and placed the head of his cock against her opening to her vagina.

“Spike… Please.” She mewled as she rubbed herself against him.

She didn’t have to lead him anymore. His hand automatically went for her hips, gripping them and propping her up so her upper body was resting completely on the box while her feet dangled a few inches off the floor.

His left hand cupped one shapely cheek, his thumb brushing against the sensitive skin as he waited for her consent. It came in the form of a desperate plea:

“Spike, I need you inside… now.”

He rubbed the head of his cock along her slit, making sure she was perfectly soaked before driving all the way inside her with one long, hard thrust.

“God!” Buffy choked out.

“Are you ok?” He questioned.

“Yes, yes.” She quickly answered, nodding vehemently.

This was so different, he felt… bigger, harder. She had fantasized about it all those weeks.

“Please, don’t stop.” She asked him in a weak voice.

He nodded, even though she couldn’t see him from her position and started moving slowly in and out of her.

She moaned in satisfaction as she felt him stabbing that wonderful spot inside her. But she needed more.

“Harder.” She begged.

Spike rolled his eyes back, closing them as he heard the urgency in her voice. He complied and shoved into her with more force.

“Harder. Faster.” She encouraged him and soon he was ramming into her in earnest.

Buffy’s hand scrambled over the box, searching for support until she found the edges. She gripped them and used her new found leverage to meet his thrusts.

Spike’s fingers dug into the flesh of her hips when he felt her growing tighter and wetter with each hard stroke.

“Bloody hell!” He growled.

“Oh, God Spike, oh, god, oh god…” She chanted between moans. “Spike, I’m coming…” She finally groaned as her release washed over her for the second time that day.

It wasn’t long before Spike was following her, letting out a feral grunt as he slammed into her one last time.

Buffy gasped as she felt him collapse on top of her, his face nuzzling against the back of her neck.

Chapter 51

Ring! Ring!

“I’ve got it.” Buffy called out to her mother downstairs as she threw herself on the mattress and reached for the phone. “Hello? Hey, Spike.” She greeted enthusiastically, a large grin over her lips. “No, you can’t come over earlier. I’m not going to be ready yet.” She paused letting out a long sigh. “I do not take forever to get dressed.” She glanced at her nails as she heard the reply from the other side of the line. “Well, it’s my senior prom. I’m allowed to take my time.” She mumbled. “Ok, see you at six. Bye.” She grinned as she hung up and jumped off the bed.

She walked over to her wardrobe and took out her dress, splaying it over the mattress.

She had been daring this time and had gone for a flaming red number. Her mother hadn’t been too happy about it but she didn’t care. It was her prom; she was entitled to be a little bolder. Her trembling fingers traced soft fabric as her mind wandered for a few moments.

She was snapped out of her thoughts by a knock on the door.

“Yeah?”

The door opened to reveal her mother standing in the hall.

“Hey, mom.”

“So, are you ready to get dressed?” Joyce asked with a weak voice.

“Mom, you’re not going to start crying again, are you?” Buffy asked a bit concerned.

“No, no.” Mrs. Summers quickly assured her, wiping her eyes as she inhaled sharply.

“It’s just the prom.”

“I know, it’s just… My little girl is all grown up now.” Joyce choked a bit as her daughter came to embrace her. When they parted, the older woman traced the edges of Buffy’s jaw. “You’ve grown into a beautiful, intelligent and amazing young woman. And I couldn’t be more proud of you.” At that point it was impossible to hold back any longer and the tears started rolling down Joyce’s cheeks.

“Mom…” Buffy pouted, bringing her in for another tight hug, as she realised that pretty soon she would be crying too.

“I-I want you to…” Joyce pulled back, to look her daughter in the eye as she spoke, occasionally sniffling and hiccupping: “…to know t-that I love you very much.”

“I know, mom. I love you too.” Buffy nodded as her eyes began to water.

The two women looked at each other for a few seconds; a soft smile on both their faces. Suddenly, Mrs. Summers pulled away and straightened her clothes with one hand whilst wiping away the tears with the other.

“Well, I better let you get ready.” Her smile grew. “If you need anything let me know, ok? I’ll be downstairs.”

“Ok.”

As she watched her mother walk away and closed the door Buffy felt a strange feeling of achievement, of complete fulfilment. She was getting ready for her prom, she had a wonderful mother who loved her, great friends and…

Ring! Ring!

… a very sweet and nervous boyfriend that kept calling to check on her.

“Hello? Spike… No, I told you. You can’t come sooner. I miss you too.” Sigh. “I know. I can’t wait to see you too. You look very yummy in a tuxedo.” She smiled as she heard him whisper sweet nothings in her hear. “Spike… I gotta go. I’ll be late. Ok. I’ll see you later. It’s at seven, not at six.” She insisted. “Ok, bye.”

She hung up and once more turned her attentions to the gown laid out on the bed.

“Time to get sexy.” She said out loud as she reached for the dress.

~+~

“Mom?” She called out as she came down the stairs and into the kitchen.

Mrs. Summers turned around to find her daughter standing at the door. She looked astounding. Her long blonde locks cascaded freely over her bare shoulders, her face fresh and alive as a smile danced over her lips. She twirled around once and the long dress flowed freely around her, the ghostly fabric brushing softly against her legs as she moved. It was a simple gown, which fitted her chest tightly before spreading out just below her breasts. Below, it floated down to form an uneven hem that hung longer on the right side and above, it travelled over her left collarbone leaving her right one exposed.

“Honey… You look…” Joyce was speechless, her trembling hand coming to cover her open mouth. “… Amazing.” She was finally able to finish her sentence after a few seconds of staring.

“You don’t think it’s too much?”

“No, no. You’re beautiful, honey.” She quickly assured her, coming to stand next to her.

With a glassy stare she looked down at her daughter. She was truly breathtaking. Suddenly, Mrs. Summers was snapped out of her thoughts, shaking her head and brushing away the tears that had again started to thread down her cheeks as she rushed into the living room.

“Oh, I better get some pictures of you.”

She searched the room and sighed in relief when she found the camera. Without warning, she started taking snapshots; the intense flash temporarily blinding Buffy. Just then, the doorbell rang.

“Oh, that must be Spike.” Buffy said, suddenly a bit nervous.

“I’ll get it.” Mrs. Summers replied as she reached for the doorknob.

“No, wait. I need my entrance.” The blonde cried out, stumbling her way up the stairs, her eyes still partially blinded by the flash.

Mrs. Summers smiled as she watched her daughter stagger up the stairs in a rush.

“Ok, you can open the door now.” Buffy shouted from the top floor.

“Hey, Joyce.” A tuxedo-clad Spike greeted when the door was opened.

“Hello, Spike. Please come in. Buffy’s upstairs, she’ll be down in a minute.” Joyce explained, trying to hide her smile as she let the young man in.

“Thanks, I’ll just-“ He was cut off by the vision of Buffy slowly appearing at the top of the stairs. “-wait.” He gasped the rest of the phrase as he gawked wide-eyed at the girl that was now coming towards him.

Joyce smiled inwardly as she watched the couple come together. They were engulfed in complete silence until she reached the bottom of the stairs.

“Hey.” She said in a weak voice.

Her heart was racing wildly in her chest. God, the way he looked at her; like she was the only thing in the world that mattered.

“H-“ He tried to speak but the word got stuck in the lump that had formed at the base of his throat. He coughed a bit and tried once again. “Hey.” It came out raspy and low. “You look… God, Buffy!” He finally gasped.

She couldn’t help but smile. She felt so beautiful under his intense stare.

“Well, you guys better get going. Or you’ll be late.” Mrs. Summers was forced to cut in when the two teenagers simply remained frozen, gazing at each other.

“Oh, right.” Spike shook his head, but his eyes quickly returned to the girl standing in front of him. “I brought you this.” He said a bit shy as he handed her the corsage he had been holding.

“It’s beautiful.” Buffy smiled taking it out of the box and giving it back to him so he could pin it on her.

With trembling hands he was able to do it after a few desperate minutes.

“Let’s just get a few pictures before you two leave.” Mrs. Summers proposed giddily.

After a series of snapshots the two teenagers were finally released and allowed to leave for the prom.

“Have fun.” Joyce shouted from the doorstep as she watched the two walk into the car.

Spike blinked a couple times more as he entered the vehicle.

“I think you’re mom has blinded me, luv.” He mumbled pressing the heels of his hands against his eyelids.

He held his breath when he turned to look at the girl sitting on the passenger seat, the smirk on his lips disappearing.

“You look amazing, luv.” He breathed; that glassy stare back in his eyes.

“Thank you.” She smiled as he leaned in and kissed her.

His lips lingered over hers for a few seconds, before he pulled away. He let out the breath he had been holding and opened his eyes to look at her one more time before turning the key in the ignition.

~+~

too alarming now to talk about
take your pictures down
and shake it out
truth or consequence, say it aloud
use that evidence race it around
The lyrics soared to fill the teen-packed gymnasium. Buffy felt butterflies fluttering in her stomach as she stepped on the linoleum floor, her arm tightly locked around Spike’s.

“Nervous, pet?” he asked, when he felt her grip grow tighter.

“A bit.” She answered smiling as she scanned the room before entering.

there goes my hero
watch him as he goes
there goes my hero
he's ordinary
“Oh, there’s Willow and Oz.” She said, pointing at the couple and the two blondes crossed the floor to meet them.

“Hey.” Willow greeted excitedly. “Wow, Buffy, you look great.” She exclaimed when she took in the dress her best friend was wearing.

“Thanks. You look great too.”

“I told you the red one would look better. Remember, you only get to go to your senior prom once. Time to be bold.” Willow explained as she twisted her hands together.

“Hey, Oz.”

“Spike.”

The two males greeted each other while the girls started chatting about the simple decor of the gymnasium.

“I can’t believe there are no Star Wars icons in the entire gym.” Willow supplied. “I actually looked. No Star Wars, no Star Trek, no Stargate. No stars at all. We’re star free for the evening.”

“They actually made a good job at it.” Buffy agreed.

“That’s cause yours truly intervened.” Spike said proudly. “They wanted to decorate the gym with giant blow up dolls of Marvel heroes.”

At the confused look of the two teens he added: “You know, to go with the whole music theme.”

The two girls exchanged a look.

“Music theme?”

Spike simply outstretched his hand, pointing at no spot in particular.

I want to be your hero of love
is it getting better
is it getting brighter
I want to be your hero
your hero of love
“Note the subtle presence of the word ‘hero’ in every single song that is played tonight. They decided that the theme of the prom would be ‘Heroes’. So any song with the word ‘hero’ in the lyrics goes on tonight’s soundtrack.” Spike explained with a smirk. “It was actually a unanimous decision.”

“You agreed?” Buffy asked with a frown. “Why?”

The smile on Spike’s face grew as he started counting off his fingers:

“Highest Trails Above by The Ramones, Up In Heaven (Not Only Here) by The Clash, Shooting Stars and Paradise West by Billy Idol and of course, can’t forget, New York by the great Sex Pistols.”

“Oh, God I’m going to have a Punk filled prom.” Buffy lamented.

“Oh, baby.” Spike mewled with fake sympathy, putting a strong arm around her. “You’ll get around to liking the Punk movement; it’s inevitable after a while.”

Buffy twisted her nose in disgust as she leaned into his embrace.

“Nice trick, Spike. Gotta say I’m impressed.” Oz spoke up. “Just one problem.”

“What?” Spike questioned with a frown.

“You forgot, Holding out for a hero by Bonnie Tyler, Hero by Mariah Carey, almost fifty percent of Country music and of course…”

As if on queue, the first notes of the song started playing.

Would you dance
if I asked you to dance?
“Can’t forget that classic.” Oz made his point, tilting his head sideways.

“Oh, bloody hell.” Spike growled as Enrique Iglesias’ voice came loudly from the speakers and series of couples flooded the dance floor.

Would you run
and never look back?
Would you cry
if you saw me cry?
And would you save my soul, tonight?
“I’m in hell.” He grumbled too disillusioned to notice Xander and Cordelia approaching.

“Hey.” The brown-haired teen greeted with a wide grin.

“Hello, Xander. Cordy, love the dress.” Willow complimented.

“Hey, guys.” Spike mumbled as Buffy tugged at his sleeve.

“Come on sour puss. Let’s dance.”

Reluctantly, the bleached teen shuffled his way after her. When they reached the middle of the dance floor he put his arms around her small form and brought her closer to him while she rested her head on his shoulder. They moved slowly as the painful lyrics were heard.

She looked up to see a pout on his lips.

“Oh, come on. It’s not that bad.”

“No, it’s not bad.” He paused. “It’s horrible. It sounds like the guy wants to go to the loo and is being forced to hold it in.”

“Nice imagery, Spike.”

“Ok, it’s not that bad.” he conceded.

“I promise I’ll dance one of your horrible Punk songs with you.”

He smiled. And with that she returned her cheek to rest over his tuxedo-clad chest.

~+~

Buffy tapped her foot on the floor along with the beat as she sat around the table between Willow and Cordy.

“I can’t believe we’re at our senior prom.” Willow exclaimed as she watched Xander, Spike and Oz talking from afar.

“I can’t believe we’re going to graduate from high school next week.” Buffy replied.

“I can’t believe that girl’s wearing the same corsage as me.” Cordy pipe up. “Excuse me while I go and kill Xander.”

She was half way up, when she felt Buffy’s hand pulling her back down to her seat.

“Oh, will you relax Cordy. It’s our senior prom.”

“Exactly! She can’t be wearing the same corsage as I am.” Cordelia pointed out.

“If it makes you feel any better it looks better on you. I think it clashes with her dress.” Willow offered.

“Of course it looks better on me.” Cordy immediately replied.

There was a moment of silence as the three girls continued to observe the dance floor.

“Xander looks so cute when he laughs like that.” Cordy spoke up as she watched her boyfriend holding his stomach and chuckling at something that Spike had said.

Willow and Buffy froze. It wasn’t usual for Cordelia to be complimenting anyone, much less Xander. She was constantly pointing out what he was doing wrong, but right now she was just gazing lovingly at her other half.

“He even makes the white sock no-no look cute.”

The three girls smiled as they noticed the white sock peeking out from under his tuxedo’s trousers.

“He’ll never learn.” Willow noted.

“He did the same thing at homecoming.” Cordy sighed loudly.

“God that seems like it was eons ago!” Buffy said as she continued to observe the three boys just as Spike looked back and their gazes met.

They smiled at one another while the people around them continued to speak.

“Remember Spike won for homecoming King?” Willow asked with a grin. “Think it’s gonna happen again this time?”

“Oh, God no!” Cordy exclaimed. “If I have to dance with anyone besides Xander, let it be Angel. At least he’s taller than me.”

“Hey, Spike is not that short!” Buffy protested, breaking away from Spike’s gaze.

The redhead and brunette gave her a look.

“Ok, fine. So he’s not tall. But he makes up for it in other areas.” Buffy noted mischievously as her eyes returned to Spike.

“I bet.” Cordy said rolling her eyes. “I think we all know that by now.”

At Buffy’s questioning look she continued:

“Well, except for those few who didn’t go to the play last week.”

“Or were there but had serious hearing problems.” Willow added.

A bright flush crept up Buffy’s neck and flooded her cheeks.

“It was really funny seeing Giles’ face trying to pretend he had gone deaf.” Willow giggled.

“Oh, my God. I’m gonna die.” Buffy muttered embarrassed as she rested her face in her hands.

“Hey, ladies. Whatcha talking about?” Xander asked as he approached the table, followed by Oz and Spike.

“Nothing!” Buffy immediately piped up as Spike came to stand next to her.

Xander frowned.

I need a hero
I'm holding out for a hero 'til the morning light
He's gotta be sure
And it's gotta be soon
And he's gotta be larger than life

“Wanna dance?” Buffy quickly asked when she sensed that Xander wasn’t going to let the subject go.

“It’s in the middle of the song, but sure.” Spike shrugged as he helped her out of her seat and led her out to the dance floor.

Racing on the thunder

And rising with the heat.

It’s gonna take a superman

To swing me off my feet.

Just as the lyrics were sung Buffy felt his grip around her waist grow tighter and suddenly she found herself being swept off her feet and lost in his embrace, his mouth coming to press against hers for a passionate kiss.

She chuckled giddily against his lips until they broke apart and her feet finally met the ground.

“So…” Spike started a bit breathless as they started to slowly graze across the dance floor, completely off beat with the song. As the other couples around them moved frantically to the rhythm, they remained locked in an embrace. “…what was that about?”

The flush on her cheeks turned brighter, causing Spike to grin.

“Do you have any idea how cute you look when you’re flustered like that? Just makes me want to…” He finished his sentence by pulling her closer to him and pressing his hips against hers.

Her eyes widened and she immediately pushed him away, but kept her arms around his neck.

“No! That’s what got us in this mess in the first place.” She breathed under a frown as she scanned the couples around them. She had this horrible feeling that everyone was commenting on them. “Apparently, the entire school heard our little encounter in the janitor’s closet last week.” She explained.

“Oh.” He raised his eyebrows as realisation hit him, but seconds later he shrugged. “Big deal.”

“What do you mean big deal?” She questioned, her eyebrows furrowing further.

“So they heard us, then what?”

“Well, it’s…” Buffy started, but trailed off when she realised she had no argument.

“We are going to graduate next week and we’ll probably never see these people again.”

Buffy pondered over the issue for a few seconds and then shrugged.

“I guess…” And she leaned into his embrace once again.

“To think that eight months ago you freaked out over being caught making out on the teacher’s desk.” He chuckled.

“Don’t remind me.” She grumbled.

“Oh, come on. You have to admit that looking back it was pretty funny.” He continued.

“Spike!” She scolded looking up at him.

“What?” He asked defensively.

The smirk on his face made her frown crumble away and suddenly she was smiling too.

“Did you see the look on Harmony’s face?” She asked giggling.

“Priceless.” He answered.

They laughed out loud for a while as they looked at each other.

“Feels like an eternity ago…” She finally spoke, her gaze turning distant once again. “How did we end up here? You and me… together at our senior prom. We hated each other so much!”

“I eventually won you over with my incredibly sexy boyish charms. It was just a matter of time.” He said haughtily.

“Shut up!” She swatted him across the chest, but a smile remained over her lips.

“I’m irresistible Summers, and you know it.” He continued.

“Pig.” She muttered.

“A very sexy and hot pig.” He added raising one scarred eyebrow at her.

She simply shook her head before resting it back on his shoulder.

Just as they were about to continue dancing, the music was cut short and Jonathan’s nervous voice was heard from the speakers:

“E-excuse me. C-can I have your attention please?” He stuttered tapping the microphone twice and causing a painful feedback shriek to fill the gymnasium. “S-sorry.” He apologized when the entire room cringed. He cleared his throat and continued: “Well, it’s our senior prom, finally, and in a week we will all have graduated from high school.”

“It’s about time.” Someone shouted from the crowd and a general laugh followed.

“Ha.” Jonathan forced out a chuckled and continued reading from his queue card. “Anyway, we are gathered here to celebrate our journey into-“

“Oh, get on with it already.” Someone yelled.

“We’ll have to go through this during the graduation ceremony.” Another was heard.

“Cut to Chase.” Larry’s recognisable voice echoed through the gym.

Everyone giggled at the joke. It was just too obvious that Cordelia Chase would be Prom Queen.

“Ha, funny.” Jonathan smiled meekly. “Ok, then. The Prom Queen for this year is…” He opened the envelope and read out loud: “Cordelia Chase.”

“Finally.” Cordy grumbled between clenched teeth as she smiled and made her way up to the stage.

Spike looked at Buffy sideways and noticed she was twisting her hands together.

“Don’t worry, luv. I’m not gonna win this time.” He assured her.

At her frown he added:

“Had a talk with Andrew about fixing the polls.”

“And the Prom King is… Angel O’Neill.” Jonathan announced.

“See?” Spike asked wrapping his arms around her small waist and bringing her to the sidelines so that Angel and Cordy could share the King and Queen’s dance.

They joined the rest of the group as the two popular brunettes came together. Spike glanced to see Xander biting the inside of his cheek and grumbling something incomprehensible.

“Don’t worry whelp, she likes you.” Spike tried to assure his friend but Xander wouldn’t stand still until the final notes of the song were heard.

“Finally.” He gasped when Cordy and Angel parted ways. “I thought that song would never end.” He grumbled as he put one protective arm around his girlfriend and glared daggers at Angel from across the room. The quarterback ignored him, putting his arm around his date, a blonde blue-eyed girl, apparently a freshman in college named Darla.

Buffy couldn’t help but smile at that. It was just so cute how one single dance could make Xander jealousy, but then again she had thrown a fit for much less in the past. The corner of her mouth twisted for a peaceful smirk as she leaned back into Spike’s embrace and let the memories of the last year flood her mind.

Epilogue

Buffy wiggled her bare toes once again as she spread out on the comfortable blanket; the balls of her feet coming into contact with the fresh grass while her head rested on a strong t-shirt-clad chest. She closed her eyes and let her fingers trace the contours of the white fabric against which she rested her cheek. It felt good to just stand still for a while after the madness of the last few days.

“What are you thinking about, luv?” Spike’s deep, raspy voice caused his chest to rumble a bit.

“Nothing… Everything.” She answered snuggling closer to him.

“Oh, we’re in ‘deep thought’ mode today.” He joked, earning him a swat across his arm.

She looked up and rested her chin on his chest as she gazed into his eyes; his head propped up on both hands which were folded behind his neck.

“I was just thinking about this last year…” She spoke with a soft smile. “Everything seemed to happen so quickly and so slowly at the same time.”

He frowned and she tried to explain:

“It’s just that I remember everything so clearly, still it seems like it happened so long ago. You know what I mean?”

“Sure.”

She paused for a second; her index finger trailing over his t-shirt, drawing secret patterns.

“I can’t believe we graduated from high school. It seemed like this year would never end.”

“You’re not getting nostalgic already, are you? We only graduated two days ago.” He noted.

“I don’t know. It’s just that I get this sinking feeling that nothing’s going to be the same. Everything’s gonna change. I’m just gonna miss everything so much.”

“Change is good. A lot of things changed this year, most of them were good.” He countered.

“Maybe, but…” She let out a long sigh. “High school’s over.”

“Kind of inevitable, luv.”

“I know. I’m just gonna miss everyone.”

“What do you mean? You’re gonna see everyone next year. You, me, Willow, Oz and Cordy are going off to Sunnydale College. Xander’s gonna take a year of to ‘find himself’, which means he’ll just gonna sit around in his parents’ basement all year until he decides to get off his lazy ass and go to college.” Spike rationalized.

“Yeah, you’re probably right.” She smiled once again.

“Of course I am!” He said haughtily. “Now, stop moping around and let us enjoy the free time before the others arrive.”

“When did they say they were coming?” Buffy asked.

“At six. They’re coming in Oz’s van so they have to wait till he wraps up band practice. Which means…” He propped himself up on his elbow and reached for Buffy’s wrist turning it so he could read the time. “…we have exactly two and a half hours to enjoy this amazing scenery.” He said outstretching his arm and pointing at the lake that spread out before them.

“Enjoy the scenery… Right. I like the euphemism.” Buffy joked as she crawled up his body and brushed her smiling lips against his.

“What? I’m serious. You gotta admit that my father’s cabin has the greatest view ever.” Spike tried to sound innocent.

“I wouldn’t know. Last time I was here I was too… distracted with other things to notice the view.” Buffy mumbled mischievously as her hand trailed down his chest and boldly brushed against his crotch.

“Oh, really…?” Spike questioned with a leer as he put his hand on the back of her neck and forced her down for a hungry kiss.

“Mmmm…” She tried to reply but it was impossible, so she simply nodded as they rolled over and she found herself laying on her back with Spike’s body hovering over hers.

Suddenly, he was off her. It took a few seconds for Buffy to focus her eyes and realise what had happened. When she looked up he was sitting next to her; an impish grin on his lips.

“Better not distract you from the view.” He said.

“Why you little…” She scolded sitting up straight and swinging her hand toward him but he was on his feet in a flash.

She stumbled upward and chased him around for a few minutes before she gave up.

“What? Can’t keep up?” Spike asked a bit breathless.

“Not really.” She replied, shrugging.

“Oh, poor little Buffy is too tired to chase after me.” He mocked with a babyish tone.

“No. I don’t need to chase you.” She said as she kicked off her shoes.

“I’m just too fast for you, baby.” He continued, daring her to come after him as he stuck out his tongue and ran it over his teeth.

“I told you Spike.” She started, as her hands hid behind her back for a few seconds before the sound of a zipper was heard. “I don’t…” She let the strings that held her sundress in place fall off her shoulders and soon the fabric pooled around her ankles.

Spike closed his mouth, swallowing hard when he saw her standing there, bathed in sunlight, wearing nothing but a flimsy thong.

“… need to chance you...” And the thong was gone too. “…if I can get you…” She stepped away from him as he walked closer to her. “… to chase me.”

And they were off, giggling and chuckling. Buffy ran as fast as she could, but running barefoot, even if it was on the grass, wasn’t very comfortable and pretty soon she realised that the only way to avoid being caught was racing into the lake. And that’s what she did.

Spike grumbled frustrated when he saw her diving into the cool water. After a few seconds she came up, her hair wet and slicked back. Without thinking, Spike quickly disposed himself of his clothes. Jeans, t-shirt, boots and socks flew in every direction as he took them off. Soon he was diving into the lake after her.

Buffy couldn’t escape for too long and eventually she found herself trapped between two very strong, very pale arms.

“Gotcha!” He said triumphantly.

“We really gotta work on your tan, you know that?” She asked breathless.

“Later. Maybe.” He gasped before he smashed his lips against hers, her legs instinctively coming to wrap themselves around his waist.

Buffy mewled into the kiss when she felt something long and hard stab the inside of her thigh. She quickly moved her hips to position him when:

“Oh, my God! They’re going at it again!” Cordy’s voice was heard loudly.

The two blondes froze. When they turned around they were met by four pairs of shocked eyes. Well, more like two pairs of shocked eyes, because Cordy’s were more of an angry/frustrated kind and Oz’s were just… Oz’s.

“You guys are like rabbits, you know that?” Cordy grumbled from the shore.

Nervously, the other three teens started retreating. When Cordelia failed to follow them, Xander grabbed her arms and stuttered as he dragged her away:

“O-Oz’s band practice was cancelled.” Noting how ridiculous explaining was at that moment, Xander simply added: “W-We’ll just be at the cabin, unloading our stuff.”

And with that they were out of sight. Without a second to lose, Spike’s lips returned to Buffy’s neck, while her eyes were still locked on the spot where her friends had just stood two seconds before.

“Spike, what are you doing?”

“What does it feel like?” He moaned with a hoarse voice as his tongue trance up the column of her neck.

“Not now. The others are here.” She scolded him, trying to free herself.

“They’re not anymore.” He continued his ministrations but was stopped when Buffy finally managed to push him away.

“But, Buffy…” He mewled after her as he watched her swim to shore.

“No, buts, we can do that later.” She said as she started picking up her clothes.

“Bloody hell…” He grumbled as he reluctantly exited the water and started to get dressed. “Whose idea was it to invite them to spend the week here at the cabin with us anyway?”

“Yours.” Buffy answered promptly as she threw his t-shirt at him while he was zipping up his jeans.

“Oh, right.”

“Don’t worry. I’ll make it up to you later.” She said with a smile, folding the blanket as she waited for him.

When he caught up with her, she wrapped her arms around his waist and the blonde duo made their way up to the cabin.