“You do realize this is very immature of you?” Spike asked Buffy as she peered through the windows of the restaurant.

“Yes, I do. That’s why you’re here. You’re older. You be the adult.”

Buffy looked around, finally spotting Dawn and Conner sitting at a bar booth.

“Perfect. They won’t see us until it’s too late.” Spike grinned at the evil gleam in Buffy’s eyes. This devilish side was very sexy, but then any side Buffy showed was sexy.

“Luv, we could be at your place or mine, having some wine, listening to some music, doing things they write about in Playboy.”

Buffy turned around, her eyes twinkling. “Are those illustrations or do they give you step-by-step instructions?” Buffy turned back around, watching Dawn laugh at something Connor said.

“Instructions, Pet. And I can go very slow with each one.” Buffy felt her stomach drop. The man could do the seduction number very, very well, but he wasn’t going to distract from her goal of Dawn embarrassment.

“Nope, not gonna happen. Not yet anyway.”

Buffy wiggled in his embrace, garnering a gasp from Spike. “Buffy.” He warned.

Spike gathered her in his arms. “So what’s your plan, GI Jane?”

“My plan is to let Dawn get comfortable and relaxed, then pounce on her.”

“Why exactly are we doing this, instead of this?” He said, leaning around to capture her lips in a kiss. Buffy closed her eyes, licking her lips as she did. Tempting. Very tempting.

“Do you remember our first date?” Spike’s eyes glazed over as images of Buffy’s tongue in his bellybutton, his hands kneading her breasts flashed rapidly through his mind.

“Ah, Romeo, rewind to Ipolito’s.” Buffy shook her head, knowing exactly what he was thinking about.

“Don’t want to. Like skipping to the dessert part better. You told her you forgave her for that little stunt. You told her if she hadn’t, we might not have got together. Did you lie?” Buffy heard the smile in his voice, but he wasn’t going to guilt-trip her on this.

“No, I didn’t lie. Who knows how long we might have danced around before we got together?” Buffy turned in his arms, rubbing his back slowly.

“You call what we were doing dancing?”

“It’s all we’ve ever done.” Facing him, he couldn’t resist bending down, kissing her lips softly, increasing the pressure till they were once again swept away in their passion for each other. He pulled away, smirking as he did. Buffy was breathing heavily, her heart thumping wildly in her chest.

“Come on.” He said, grasping her hand and dragging her inside. In his mind, the sooner they got this over with, the sooner they could get home and get on with the business of fooling around. Spike pushed through the crowd, apologizing for his haste. They finally came to a halt in front of Connor and Dawn’s table.

Buffy grinned when she heard the small yelp emit from Dawn’s throat. “Can we sit?”

Buffy pushed Dawn till she moved, rather reluctantly over. “So, how’s dinner?”

“Buffy, what are you doing here?” Dawn stammered incredulously.

“What ever do you mean? I came to see how my little sis’ second date was going. I mean after the Hooters’ incident, I was concerned.” Buffy said with all the sweetness of Scarlett O’Hara on crack.

“Please tell me Cordy isn’t with you?” Connor asked, looking around the room for his sister.

“No, but she could be. Do you want me to call her?” Spike said, getting into the swing of things.

“Dude, you’re my friend. What are you doing?” Connor said as Spike pulled out his cell phone.

“Please leave, Buffy. Now!” Buffy shook her head, raising her hand to get the waitress’ attention.

“I’m begging you, Buffy. Please” Buffy merely cuffed Dawn on the cheek.

“Did you want to order something?” The waitress asked, her eyes flittering to Spike. Buffy had to curb the urge to kick her under the table. That would be assault, and Buffy wasn’t keen on spending the night in jail.

“Yes. I think we would.”

“To what levels have I sunk?” Spike asked the night.

“Oh, put a sock in it. You had fun and you know it.” Buffy answered wrapping her arm around his.

“I like your sister. I really do, but the look she just gave me, has me fearing for my dangling bits.”

“Don’t worry. I’ll protect them.” Buffy’s fingers blazed a trail across his stomach to the top of his jeans. Spike turned to look at her, daring her to do in public that which she so willingly did in private. Buffy’s brow arched.

He doesn’t think I’m going to do it. It would be worth it just to see the look on his face. Who are you fooling, girl? His dangling bits are your favorite parts of his anatomy. You would not only be doing him a favor, but giving yourself a present. Sorta like at Christmas time when you tear the wrapper off a box or shake it to see what moves. It would be a preview of what was to come.

“Buffy?”

Buffy stopped cold in her tracks. The voice achingly familiar and strained. He wasn’t supposed to get back in town until Tuesday. Spike would be in New York by then.

Spike stared at the tall blonde man with a mixture of empathy and jealousy. For the better part of two years, Riley had been the one holding Buffy’s hand, kissing her lips, stroking and touching every part of her skin. What the hell was he thinking? He wanted to bash the bastard’s face in.

Spike felt the tension and anxiety coming off Buffy in waves, and he squeezed her hand in support. Buffy looked up, surprised. She had almost forgotten he was standing next to her. They gazed at each other briefly before Spike released his grip on her hand, and stepped back, giving her and Riley some privacy, but not too much.

He knew about the calls. Knew she hadn’t wanted to worry him or put a cloud over their relationship. He admired her ability to take on any situation with the stubbornness of all the bulls in Texas, but this was a tricky situation. To hear Dawn tell it, Riley had taken a ride on the Tower of Denial, and hadn’t come down yet. Well, he would be waiting to send that car back down to the Land of Reality.

“Hello, Riley.” Buffy said sheepishly. “What are you doing here? I thought you weren’t coming back till Thursday.”

“I got finished early. I wanted to surprise you.”

Buffy sighed hard. “Riley, I told you last time you called. I’m seeing someone else now.” Buffy could feel Spike’s eyes on her, and it comforted her to know he had her back in case the situation got ugly. She’d tried to let Riley down easily. She’d tried to be firm with him. She’d even admitted to cheating on him to get him to stop calling her, to stop expecting things to get back to the way they were.

Riley stared hard at Spike, slowly recognizing the blonde. “That him?” He asked, pointing a shaking finger past her to Spike.

“Yes. Please go, Riley. I’m sorry I hurt you. I want you to hate me. I want you to move on with your life. I’m not coming back.” Buffy could feel tears welling up behind her lids, but she blinked them away.

Riley continued to engage in a staring contest with Spike, who crossed his arms, and leaned lazily against Buffy’s Liberty. He may have looked relaxed, but he was tightly wound, and ready to pounce on Riley should he make a false move.

“That’s the guy from your pictures. The guy from the book signing.” He accused.

“Yes.” Buffy said weakly, fearing the direction he was heading in.

“That’s ironic.”

Riley knew what an irony was. What was the world coming to?

Spike’s brow quirked. “What’s that mate?” Obviously, Mr. Whitebread had something to say.

“You’re fucking Buffy right under my nose, and I did the same thing. Oh, it was only your picture, but yep, I fucked Buffy right under your nose in her studio. I guess we’ve got a connection now.”

Buffy was horrified and shamed. She couldn’t look at Spike. He would think her a whore. It wouldn’t take a genius to know when it could have happened.

Spike pushed off the car, setting the alarm off. He pulled the keys out of his pocket and clicked it off, noting with smug satisfaction the hurt look that passed across Riley’s face.

“Oh, she never let you drive, huh? Maybe that should have clued you in.” Spike finally reached Buffy, who was shaking.

Riley placed his hands over his ears, trying to block out Spike’s taunting words. “You think this has been easy for her. You loved her. You know what this has done to her. But let’s be realistic here, your relationship was dead in the water, long before I arrived. Don’t make this any worse than it has to be.”

“Let’s go, luv.” Spike grasped Buffy’s arm, pulling her away from Riley.

“Xander, we need to talk to you.” Willow said, crawling onto the sofa. Tara sat on the other side, her legs draped over Xander’s thighs. They’d discussed strategy all day, trying to decide how to approach him without getting his hackles up. Lorne had provided the best advice. Be honest, dolls.

“Okay, now that we’re in one of our favorite positions, what do you two lovely bitches want to talk about?” Xander ran his hand up Tara’s leg, pausing when she held his hand still.

“Tara overheard your conversation with Riley the other night, and we want to know how far are you willing to go in the name of friendship?”

“Are you spying on Buffy for Riley? Yes or No, Xander? Because if you are, we’re through. Buffy is like a little sister to us, and if you’re helping Riley to harass her.” Tara said, shaking her head to complete the implied threat.

Xander lowered his eyes. He knew talking to Riley was going to cause trouble for him and his ladies. Now, he sympathized with Riley. It was awful and unfair. Buffy was wrong to move on to someone else when technically she was still with Riley, but the realist in him saw this coming a mile away. The two of them had absolutely nothing in common. Nothing. They didn’t like the same music, the same foods, anything. He had to give credit to Buffy for staying in the relationship as long as she did. If it had been Tara or Willow, Riley would have been on the street faster than he could fart. They’d be gone like the wind, before the smell hit.

“No, I’m not spying on Buffy for Riley. He called. He asked how she was doing. I told him she seemed fine, which she did. I had no idea she was seeing someone else till he told me.” Xander looked at one, then the other. His eyes pleading with them to believe him, and they did.

“I don’t condone cheating, but is it really cheating when there’s only one person in the relationship. And it’s not any of my business what Buffy does in the privacy of her bedroom. She doesn’t ask what goes on between us, and I appreciate that.”

Tara glanced at Willow, who nodded slightly. They’d hoped that was the case. They liked Xander. He was great in bed, funny, and a somewhat decent bartender. He may not win Mr. Personality, but he worked for them and their relationship.

“We’re so glad to hear that, Xan.” Willow said, unbuttoning his shirt.

“Yeah, Xander. We’re very happy to know you didn’t betray our friend.” Tara kept her eyes on him, as she raised her legs, her toes grazing slowly over his crotch.

“I’m glad you’re glad.” Xander said, leaning his head back and closing his eyes as Willow sucked on his ear.

Spike held the door opened for Buffy. They hadn’t spoken a word to each other since leaving the restaurant parking lot.

Spike reached out to touch her shoulder, but pulled back. He doubted Buffy would be too receptive to his touch at the moment, and he was at a loss as to how to get back the easy intimacy they’d shared before Riley’s appearance. Spike guessed he should be mollified by the fact she hadn’t objected to coming back to his place. He felt more comfortable with her in his space, than in a place that held so many memories of times spent with Riley.

Buffy curled up on the sofa, wishing for simpler times. Why wasn’t she more concerned for the obvious pain Riley was going through? She didn’t care. She was so sick and tired of tiptoeing around everyone’s feelings. She’d tried so hard to be happy with Riley. It was her fault he’d thought they would have a future together. She knew it was never going to happen. They could have stayed together for another 5 years and Buffy wouldn’t feel a tenth of what she felt with Spike.

Spike. What had he thought of the whole messy scene? He had been so quiet in the car, and she wasn’t sure if that was in deference to her or because he couldn’t bring himself to talk to her. She had behaved like some slut, switching partners like porno star. Funny, she hadn’t felt this dirty that night. In fact, sleeping with Spike had seemed so right, so natural. It was the sex with Riley that had seemed foreign and out of place.

Buffy looked up as the sofa sagged. She opened her eyes to find Spike’s blue ones staring at her. Blue, cerulean, fathomless. They beckoned to her, and she found herself holding Spike tightly as if she were drowning.

“I’m sorry.” She sighed, hugging him, afraid he’d disappear if she let go.

“Yeah, I know. You have terrible taste in men, present company excluded.” Buffy laughed, and Spike closed his eyes as he felt her warm breath on his skin.

“Riley isn’t a terrible guy.” She said, leaning back, rubbing her thumbs over his cheeks. “He’s just not the guy for me. I should have told you about him… and me.. and that.” She said, her face flaming.

“We weren’t together. You didn’t owe me any explanations.”

“But..” Buffy began, gulping loudly. “It was the same day as our date.”

Spike smiled. “Okay. Don’t care.” He held her head in his hands, forcing her chin up.

“I wasn’t planning on sleeping with you that night.” Buffy said, a hint of smile on her face.

“I won’t lie. I was hoping we would, but fully prepared to spend the night in a cold shower if we didn’t”

Buffy leaned her head against his.

“I wish I had been honest with him. I should have told him about us. I knew it was over with Riley the minute I saw you in the Magic Box, but I was being stubborn.

“You stubborn? Nah, that’s some other girl.”

Spike caressed her arm, till their fingers laced together. “You know there’s been an us since that night?”

“I know.”

“If it makes you feel better about Riley, I would have hounded you till you broke up with him. You wouldn’t have gotten a moment’s rest. I would have pulled out all the stops because you’re worth it. You’re the one for me.” Buffy smiled, licking her lips as she lowered her mouth onto his.

“Ditto, Brit. Ditto.”

“Does your sister know you’re like this?” Connor asked incredulous. Dawn was stripping out of her clothes, slipping into the hot tub. “I’m not skinny dipping with your parents asleep above us.”

“Connor, they can’t see us. That’s why I do it. Now, strip!”

Connor shuffled his feet, toeing his shoes off. She was right. Her parent’s room faced the pool, but not the hot tub on the far side. But this bordered on the absurd. If they got caught, he hoped the police arrested him because facing his mother and sister was worse than jail.

“Connor, Connor. What am I going to do with you?” Dawn asked, a gleam in her eye. Connor’s shirt was thrown aside and his fingers were on the zipper.

“Stop looking, imp. No peeking at the goods. You haven’t earned the right yet.” Dawn snickered, but did as he asked. She didn’t care. She was a patient girl. She wanted him, and she would have him. He was her match. There was no doubt in her mind. He hadn’t folded yet under the pressure of being with her. He laughed at her attempts to intimidate him. He gave as good as he got. He challenged her on every level, and for the first time in her short life, she felt hope for finding someone to marry.

“Are you finished?”

Connor stood quietly on the tub’s edge staring at his own personal water sprite. Her hair was loose, and fanned out in the water like a veil. Beads of sweat and water dripped off her fingers, off her shoulders. He was in serious trouble.

She was getting under his skin and it bothered him. She was only 18. A would-be freshman in college, no less. He was almost 22, and almost ready to go out in the world. He didn’t need to get saddled down with someone who couldn’t go where he wanted to go. He dated and slept with whomever he wanted to. Dawn was different. He could feel it in his bones. He needed advice.

Connor eliminated the usual suspects, knowing instinctively, Spike would take on the protective role, since he was dating Buffy. Cordy and Mama would badger him till he was ready to disown them. So, he went to Lindsey, who told him calmly to run like hell because Dawn sounded like the kind of woman who would make him rethink his bachelor status. He had totally disregarded Lindsey’s advice because well, he was pussy-whipped. If Cordy crooked her finger, even a fraction of an inch, Lindsey was rushing to do her bidding. Connor had to remember to listen to Lindsey more often.

“If you don’t want me to see what god gave you, I suggest you get in because in five, four, three..” Dawn grinned wildly when she heard a splash.

”Now was that so difficult?” Dawn leaned over, turning the music on. The strains of Cold Train’s latest CD floated through the stillness of the night.

“You’re an amazing woman, Dawn Summers.” Connor said, his foot grazing hers under the surface.

“Thanks. So, how long do you think you can hold out?” She said seriously.

“Hold out? For what?” Bad question, Connor. Dawn smiled, and dipped under the water. Connor’s eyes widened, thinking she was going to pay Master Chase a visit, but she bounced back up, water streaming down her face and hair.

“Me.”

Angel watched as Darla climbed in her car, and drove away from the house. Closing the curtains, he picked up the decanter and poured himself a liberal amount of gin. Dru’s drink. He was more of a Scotch man. But tonight, he needed the bitterness of the gin to jumpstart his brain. There was no way he would let Dru’s insanity bring him down. He had worked too hard to bury his past, only to have it come back and bite him in the ass now. He still couldn’t believe Dru had been stupid enough to get knocked up by Spike. She hated kids with a passion. She thought they were dirty and wild. No way would she get pregnant on purpose, so what had happened? Had the stupid twit forgotten to take her pill that day? Had they been so caught up in screwing each other blind that he’d not used a condom?

He still didn’t understand her feelings for Spike after all these years. She was relentless in her desire to see him on his knees before her. What had started out as an opportunity for him to get his rocks off with a beautiful, exotic woman had degenerated into a nightmarish marriage. Sometimes, he didn’t know whether he was coming or going with Dru. Now the whole kit and kaboodle could come crashing down around them.

He needed a few more months. After the primary, he’d be fine. Any scandal before August and he was done for. Pack up his bags, and move out of the state, because he’d be finished in California. Unless, he cut his losses. Darla had hinted at that before she left. Strike before anyone found out about the abortion. Use it as an excuse for divorcing Dru. If only the child had been his, then he would have a much better chance of that excuse carrying any weight.

“Dad? Anya? Are you home?” Spike brow furrowed. Both of their cars were outside. It wasn’t like them to leave the house unlocked.

Giles came around the corner, tears in his eyes. “Dad, what’s wrong? It is Anya? Grandmamma?”

Giles grabbed Spike by the arms, giving him a bear hug. “No, Mum is fine. Anya is terrific. She’s… she’s more than terrific.

Spike smiled, relief evident on his face. “Dad, what’s going on? You look like you’re about to burst.”

The door to the bathroom opened and a shell-shocked Anya walked out clutching her stomach. “Did you tell him?” She asked, her eyes shining with tears. Now, Spike was seriously starting to worry. They both looked as if they’d bawled their eyes out just minutes before he arrived. Something had obviously happened. What were they keeping from him?

“Dad?”

“Spike, we have something to tell you. It’s great news. It may be of a shock to you. Lord knows, it was to us. We just didn’t think. Well, we knew it was possible…” Giles rambled.

“Dad! Just tell me.”

Anya wrapped her arm around Giles’ waist and he hers. “Spike, we’re pregnant.”

Spike was speechless. A baby. A baby and his dad. Our dad. He was going to be some kid’s big brother.

“Spike, say something. We know this baby was unplanned, and it might be awkward for you.” Giles said, nervously. Anya’s lip trembled. She knew how close Spike and Giles were. She didn’t want her child to come between them.

Spike felt tears burning his eyes. “I can’t believe this. Who knew you still had it in you, Dad.” Giles’ eyes widened at that statement and he grunted as Spike embraced them both.

“I’m going to be a big brother. I can’t believe it.”

“You’re happy for us?” Anya asked, still concerned.

“Of course, why wouldn’t I be?”

“I wouldn’t want to come between you and your Dad. I know how much you love each other, and then he married me, and now a baby.” Spike pulled Anya into his arms, whispering softly to her.

“You make Dad happy, and that makes me happy. He loves you. You’re giving him what my mother wouldn’t, a wife, a baby, and a home. I’m eternally grateful for having you in our lives.”

“You should have seen Dawn’s face when I sat down, Will. If looks could kill, I’d be 6 feet under right now. She was absolutely livid. Connor looked green. He kept looking around the place expecting Cordelia and Lindsey to show up.”

“That’s too funny. I can’t believe you tracked them down. How did you know where they were going to be anyway?”

”Spike told me. Connor asked him where he should take Dawn that wouldn’t be too formal or too Hooterish.’

“Hooters bad. Houston’s good. Well, I bet you killed all thoughts of backseat snogging. They were probably too afraid you’d be standing outside the car watching. I would change the locks if I were you. We may have taught Dawn the art of revenge too well.” Willow looked up to see her assistant standing in the doorway, a file in her hands. “Hold on Buffy.”

“Sure thing.” Buffy perused the bouquets. She had to find the perfect one for dinner tonight. Spike was leaving tomorrow for New York and a series of morning show interviews. She was going to miss him, but that didn’t explain the belly grumblings she’d been having since she woke up. It wasn’t that she was feeling any sense of déjà vu. Spike wasn’t going to disappear again. They weren’t going to be separated for years. No, it was simply the fact he wouldn’t be within reach. She wouldn’t be able to put her hands on him, to see his face, to hear his voice without the assistance of a machine. She was going to be fucking miserable.

“Sorry, didn’t mean to be gone so long.” Willow said.

“No biggie. So, Tequila tomorrow night.”

“Yep, the cheer up party will be at your house at 6, so we can sober up by midnight. You bring the chips. We’ll bring the liquor.”

“Now, where have I heard that before? I’m heading into the store. I’ll call you when I get home. Love you.”

“Love you, too. Bye.”

Buffy clicked off the phone, sighing as she searched her bag for her list. She wasn’t watching where she was going and bumped into a dark-haired lady.

“Oh, I’m so sorry. I wasn’t looking. Are you all right?”

“Yes, I am.” Buffy didn’t miss the cold, dismissive tone in her voice, and immediately took a step back to allow the woman to walk past her.

“Do I know you?” Buffy inquired.

The woman turned slowly, her black, black hair shimmering in the sun. “Do you work for someone I know, because that’s the only way you would know me?” The woman turned on her heel, leaving Buffy stunned and itching for a carton of eggs.

“I wish you were going with me.” Spike said, holding Buffy tightly as they waited in the ticket line.

“Me too, but I‘m all work no play Buffy this week. I‘ll actually get some work done with you gone.” She joked, hoping to hide the loneliness she felt settling in to her bones.

“I‘m flattered, Luv. Didn‘t realize I was that big of a distraction.”

“Liar.” Buffy breathed in deeply, inhaling his scent, putting it to memory.

“Would it make you feel better if I said I was going to be absolutely miserable without you?”

Buffy beamed. “Yes, it really would.”

“Then feel better.” Spike pressed his lips to her temple.

Get a grip, Spike. It’s only for 4 days. 4 days without his sun-kissed goddess, his friend, his lover. He was going to miss her like crazy. Had he always had it this bad for her? The last 3 years were hazy, replaced by the heady happiness he’d felt since she stood in front of him at the Magic Box.

What was this he was feeling? It was only for a few days, then he‘d be back and they could resume their hormone fest. Stop that. He could hear Cordy shouting in his ear. This wasn‘t merely some fling, but he knew that after that night, but was it that everlasting love stuff he used to dream about? Buffy made him believe anything was possible, but she’d been doing that for him for years.

He hoped Katie and Diane liked the strong, silent type because he wasn’t much in the mood for cheery morning talk.

“Buffy, we’re here!” Willow shouted through as she, Lorne, and Tara entered the house.

“Hey, guys. Thanks for coming over.” Buffy hugged each of them, hoping her eyes were clear and not so puffy.

“Doll face, he’ll be back in a few days. It’s not as if he’s leaving for another country. It’s just New York. Oh, wait, that is another planet.” Lorne said, rubbing Buffy’s back.

“It’s not Spike. Not that I’m not going to miss him. It’s Riley.” Three sets of eyes rolled in sync, no less, and not for the first time, Buffy was highly impressed with their ability to convey displeasure and disgust in one facial expression.

“Buffy, we weren’t sure if we should tell you this, with Spike leaving and all, but..” Lorne left off, turning to Tara and Willow. “You tell her. It’s your love muffin that’s the spy.”

Willow and Tara shared a moment of panic and derision at Lorne’s statement. While Xander was a great many things, love muffin wasn’t one of them. Walking, talking dildo might be better, but no love amongst the three of them.

“Xander’s working for the CIA?” Buffy asked confused.

“Did you use too much hair color, sweetie, because your brain just isn’t working properly? We’re talking about Xander.” He said, patronizingly slow.

“I know full well who we’re talking about, Lorne. Thank you.” Buffy stuck her tongue, and giggled when Lorne half-heartedly tried to bite it off.

“Excuse us. If you two are finished, we’ll tell you.” Tara said, taking Buffy’s hands and guiding her to the sofa.

“Is something wrong with Xander?” Buffy asked, though that question begged so many answers. He was a nice enough guy, but she seriously hoped Willow and Tara weren’t getting maternal feelings. The thought of either one of them or both of them carrying Xander’s child made her want to pluck her eyes out and replace them with grapes. Same consistency. Same color.

“No, Xander is fine. He.. well, last night he was on the phone with Riley.” Willow waited for the big explosion, but Buffy had her “No big deal” sign on.

“Riley’s been pumping him for information.”

“I think you’ve ruined me for the rest of the night. Now, I’ve got the image of Riley pumping Xander running amok in my mind. Get out you heathen! Get out!” Lorne said, slapping the side of his head, lightly.

“I think I’m going to be sick.” Buffy ran from the room. They winced when they heard her throwing up in the bathroom.

Tara stood outside the door, worry etched on her face. “You don’t think she’s pregnant, do you?”

Lorne looked stunned, but he recovered quickly. “Darling, Riley’s sperm wouldn’t know which direction to take to find Buffy’s eggs. They’d be lost and asking each other for directions.”

Willow giggled, making hand gestures of the imaginary chase for Buffy’s ovum. “Buffy wouldn’t sleep with Riley without taking the necessary precautions.”

“She slept with Spike.”

“Honey, I’d sleep with Spike, condom or no condom. Have you seen the man’s abs?” Lorne turned to Willow. “I want abs like that.” He whimpered.

Buffy returned from the bathroom and plopped down on the sofa. "Sushi for lunch. Not good."

"Buffy, you're not pregnant, are you?"

Buffy lifted her head. "Are you out of your mind? No, I'm not pregnant. Got my period shortly after Spike left. Perfect timing."

Tara, Lorne and Willow all nodded, thankful that mini-crisis had been diverted.

Buffy laughed, humorlessly. “This is so ridiculous. I break up with him. He finds out I’m sleeping with someone else, and he’s still interested. Well, I guess I’m better than I thought.”

“Must be rimmed in gold.” Tara quipped, smiling appreciatively when Buffy grinned.

“What am I going to do?”

“Kill him. Bury him in the hills. Move-in with Spike and get on with the rest of your life.” Willow said, getting up to get another bottle of Tequila.

“Don’t mention Spike. I think I’m going through withdrawals.”

“He’s only been gone a few hours, Buffy. His penis must be dipped in gold.”

“What’s with the gold references, Tara? Not that I confirming or denying anything, but what gives?” Buffy slurred, feeling the effects of her 4th shot of the evil stuff.

“Blame it on Cuervo Gold.” She said, hiccupping.

“I’m trying to be the bigger person. I’m trying to keep my head on straight.”

Willow looked at Tara. Tara looked at Willow. Both were bewildered by Buffy’s statements.

“Uh, sweetie. What the fuck are you talking about?” Lorne asked around the lime in his mouth.

“Spike, Lorne. Spike. I miss him. I MISS HIM. He was gone from my life for 3, count them 3 years.” She said, holding up 4 fingers, but counting two of them as one. “He’s back for 2 weeks, 14 days, and I’m a mess. What is wrong with me?”

Willow sat down, handing the limes to Tara. “Honey, it’s called being in love.”

Buffy’s eyes fluttered open, and she grimaced at the sight of the sunlight poking through the curtains, casting shadows on the carpet. No, she thought, I need more time. I need more time to soak up everything about him. So when he’s gone from my life, I’ll be able to remember how he felt and tasted. How his eyes can make me feel like I’m drowning and waving at the same time.

Buffy felt his arm around her waist, and she snuggled deeper into his grasp. Why did the night have to end, and the day begin? It seemed so unfair to make this decision. It’d be better if he was the one to leave her, then she wouldn’t have to be strong.

Spike knew she was awake, and that it would only be a matter of time till she got dressed and walked out of his life. His arms tightened involuntarily, not wanting to let this beautiful creature out of his sight. He already felt a little less than himself, just imagining the day without her. She was an enigma to him, but he also felt as if he’d known her forever.

When she left here, what would she take with her? His heart. His soul. It seemed a bit extraordinary to be thinking in those terms, but she had touched him in a place he’d thought was long dead after Dru. She had renewed his spirit. She had given him strength, and he didn’t know if he would ever be the same man again.

“It’s morning, Pet.” He drawled, his breath warm on her skin. He kissed her shoulder lightly, almost reverently. She turned, grasping his head in her hands, kissing him. She rained open-mouthed kisses on his mouth, trying to stave off the words she had to say.

“I have to go.” She said, and he could hear the tears in her voice.

Why? He wanted to scream. Why do you have to leave, when I can tell you don’t want to?

Why won’t you ask me to stay? She wondered. Why aren’t you trying to convince me to stay?

“I know. Our time is up.” He said gruffly.

“Seems like time flew by.” Buffy said, laying her head against his chest. It wasn’t supposed to be this hard to walk away. It was supposed to be this great escape, one night when she could forget the rules in which she lived her life by. She could forget about being the perfect daughter, the perfect sister, the perfect friend, and just be a woman with a man, who treated her like God’s greatest gift.

She stared at him, searching his face for a sign that he wouldn’t let her leave this bed, his life for good.

Spike stroked her back, pulling her closer till their lips just barely touched. He bent his head to kiss her again, hoping to convince her to stay and not go. Buffy felt his cock warm and throbbing against her leg, and she knew she couldn’t leave without feeling him inside her again.

Spike rolled till he lay draped across her legs. He made no move to part her thighs or to touch her. He stared into her hazel depths, trying to memorize the look on her face in the early morning sun. A look he hoped to see again, in the future, when both of them were ready to accept the gift they’d been given.

Buffy closed her eyes to the intensity of his gaze. She licked her lips, which were hot and dry. Too many kisses. She mused. Too much time spent licking the salty sweat off his brow, his chest. Too much time spent pleasuring his hot shaft in my mouth.

“I need you.” She said, stroking his face.

“I need you too.” He said, kissing her lips softly. Buffy opened her legs, inviting him in. Spike rubbed his hand over her chest, down the sides of her breast, cupping the flesh gently as he pulled the nipple to his lips. Buffy arched off the bed, her fingers sliding into his hair, feeling her anxiety slip away.

She knew in her heart that she would take him with her, no matter where she went. He would be there, if only in a memory or a thought. He would be her talisman when things got too difficult to bear. He would be her sounding board when she couldn’t talk to others. He would always be in her mind, her soul, her heart.

Buffy gasped as she felt the head of his shaft push past her nether lips. She stared, her eyes darkening to the color of emeralds. He pushed slowly, making her feel every inch of him. Her fingers dug into his arms, her body shuddering and rolling as she came. She smiled almost sheepishly.

“Never hold back, luv. Not with me.” He said, breathlessly, his face scrunched up in pain. She willed her body to relax, to allow him deeper inside. She knew he was branding her as his own.

His arms shook from the effort to stay in control. Finally, he bottomed out, going as far as he could. They both sighed with relief, then groaned as he pulled out of her completely. Buffy’s hips rose up to catch him, but he was gone, only to thrust back in harder, faster. Buffy cried out, her head thrashing on the pillow. Spike grunted as he laid his head on her chest, gathering her hips in his hands as he plunged repeatedly, over and over into her, pounding her body into the mattress.

“Don’t stop. Please don’t stop.” She begged. Her legs wrapped around Spike’s waist, her heels pressed into his buttocks, pushing in time with his thrusts.

Her arms held his head to her chest, nearly smothering him, but he didn’t care. She was here and he was inside her, trying to bore a hole into her back, anything to make this feeling last.

“Oh, god. Oh, god.” Spike grunted, praying this exquisite torture wouldn’t end.

Buffy could hear the bed squeaking its protest, heard her own voice crying out for more. She couldn’t think, could only feel, and her heart ached with sadness that this would be the last time she would feel his flesh against hers, in hers. She cried out as her body locked up, trembling with the force of her orgasm. Spike grabbed the mattress thrusting into her as his orgasm hit him at the same time. Buffy’s hand rose to her face as she cried, tears of joy at the pleasure she felt, tears of anguish because this was truly the end, tears of affection for this man, and what they would never have.

“Ssh, luv. I’m here.” She heard him say. She opened her eyes, seeing tears in his as well. It was just too much to take. If she didn’t leave now, she never would.

Buffy kissed him slowly, fully, enjoying his taste one more time. Spike could feel it in her, the gentle distancing of herself. He sighed in defeat.

You could ask her to stay? And if she resents that, what do I do then? He asked. This was what she’d wanted from the very beginning. He had agreed, and he knew at the time it was a risky venture. Spend more time with her, become attach to her, only to watch her walk away. It had been a risk, he’d willing took, just to have a little more taste of sunshine.

He rolled off of her, allowing her to get up. She wouldn’t look at him as she gathered her clothes, and took them into the bathroom. Spike rolled onto his stomach, staring disdainfully at the window. The door opened, and he felt her standing next to him.

“Thank you.” She said, bending down, kissing him hard and fast. She grabbed her purse and was gone.

Spike clutched at the pillow he was resting on, resisting the overwhelming urge to jump up and run stark naked after her.

“Thank you, Golden Girl.” He said, rolling over onto his back. She was gone, and he had to take several deep breaths to keep from screaming at the injustice of it. To bring her into his life, to make him feel for her so suddenly and so completely, was a cruel joke.

Wednesday

A hand shot out from under the covers, searching for the offending piece of machinery ringing incessantly. Buffy pushed the sheets back, her hair a riotous mess, and looked bleary-eyed at the clock. 5:41.

“Hello.” She grumbled.

“Hello, luv.”

Buffy grinned. “Spike. Hi.” She gushed, feeling extremely giddy for someone awaken before dawn.

“Sorry to wake you. Just wanted to talk to you before I got too swamped today.”

“That’s okay. I was dreaming about you.” Buffy pulled the covers back over her head, and snuggled into them.

“Was it a good dream?” He asked, leaning his head back against the headrest.

“Any dream with you in it, is going to be good.”

“I miss you.” Spike told her. “New York is no fun without you.”

“Well, neither is San Marino. Everyone’s sick of me. They say I’m moping.”

Spike laughed. “Moping? Hmm. One of the production assistants at GMA asked if I needed a shot of espresso. I told her no thanks. What I needed was back in California.”

“Really?” She said, brightly.

“Yep, and she told Diane Sawyer, who asked if I had finally found somebody.”

Buffy sat up, sleep all but forgotten. “What did you tell her?” She asked hesitantly.

“I told her the truth, luv. I told her I had found you.”

Liam placed his hand over the receiver, hearing screaming coming from their bedroom. He asked the man on the other line to hold on, and went to check on Dru. He found her yelling obscentities at the TV, at Spike actually, who was giving an interview on Good Morning America. Liam closed the door, not wanting to get into an altercation with her so early in the morning. He knew he’d hear about William’s latest indiscretion later. For now, he had a campaign to win, despite his wife’s attempts to lose it for him.

“Yes, I’m here. Oh, that was nothing. My wife broke a nail.” He said, flippantly. “Yes, Mr. Summers, we are planning on attending the benefit Saturday night. As your representative and a patron of the arts, I am looking forward to it.”

Dru watched as the maid poured her a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice. She waved her hand, dismissing her as Darla walked in, all cool and confident in her business attire.

“Good morning, Mrs. Cavanaugh.” Darla set her briefcase down by her side. Lola placed a cup of coffee and a croissant in front of her.

“Thank you, Lola.”

“Why are you here?” Dru sneered. Darla sipped her coffee, letting her gaze travel up Dru’s body from the tips of her fuzzy high-heeled slippers to her flowing robe. Who dresses this woman? She thought, shaking her head at the ruffles and folds. I thought those shoes went out with Imelda Marcos and Tammy Faye Bakker.

“Liam asked me to stop by for a strategy meeting. Saturday is the museum benefit. There will be a lot of potential backers there, and he needs to know who to glad hand first.”

“I’m Liam’s wife. I could have told him who the money people are in this town. He doesn’t need you for that. Your job is to make sure he has the proper press coverage and that people are hearing his message.” Dru bounced out of her seat, her long robe twirling in the air, like a dress train.

“I know you want my husband, but I’ll be damned if I’m going to let you have him.”

Darla crossed her leg, leaning back in her chair. “If I wanted him, I could have him, Dru. I want him in the Governor’s mansion. I’ll do what is necessary to get him there. Are you willing to do everything in your power to help him, because from what I’ve heard you aren’t doing him any favors.”

Dru spun around, the juice spilling over the edge of the glass, and splashing to the floor. “You bitch! I am behind my husband one hundred percent.”

“Really, because I would think continuing with this asinine lawsuit against William Giles, against your husband’s specific wishes would count as not giving the team a hundred percent.”

Dru’s ire was lessened a bit by that information. How in the hell did the witch know that?

“What exactly do you hope to accomplish? Wasn’t it enough to flaunt your affair with Angel in his face? Do you have to go after him now, when everything you’ve worked so hard to get is on the line?”

Dru pulled herself up to her full height, staring daggers at the campaign manager, who seemed unfazed by the cold look in Dru’s eyes. “If you’re thinking of telling Liam, don’t. You don’t want me as an enemy.” Darla watched as Dru picked up a knife off the table, twirling it in her hand as she circled behind Darla.

“Dru, you are a lot of things, but stupid isn’t one of them. Threatening me accomplishes nothing. If Liam finds out about your extracurricular activities, you can kiss Sacramento goodbye. He’ll dump you faster than you dropped your panties for him.”

“Dru, is Darla here.” Dru turned around, hiding the knife behind her back. She smiled warmly at her husband as he kissed her on the cheek. “Ah, Darla’s here. I’ve got a call in to Matt Henderson. I want you to sit in on it with me.”

“Of course, Liam. See you later, Mrs. Cavanaugh.” Darla picked up her briefcase and followed Liam inside the house. Dru stabbed the croissant with the knife and stormed off to make a phone call.

The bell above the door jingled. Buffy walked into the main room, smiling when she saw who her visitor was.

“Cordy, what are you doing here?” She said, embracing the taller woman.

“I thought I might take you to lunch.”

“Again. You were just here yesterday.” Buffy said, grinning.

“I know, but two of the 3 men I love are involved with Summers women. I gotta make sure I’m on your good side.”

“Ah, Dawn and Connor. What date are they on? Is this the third or the fifth? I’ve lost count.”

“Well, Connor would like it if he didn’t see her quite so much, but he’s hooked.” She said, leaning over the counter. She thumbed through the photo album Buffy kept out for customers to view.

“Your brother is toast. Dawn is on a mission, and its name is Connor Chase.” Buffy giggled.

“I know. This is the first time he’s had a woman who’s just as beautiful, just as desirable as him, and it’s driving him crazy. He doesn’t know how to handle her. He can’t use her. He can’t dismiss her. I haven’t enjoyed him being this uncomfortable since he got chickenpox before his senior prom.”

Buffy shook her head, laughing at the picture of the super-cool Connor that she knew, and the itchy, scratch mess that he probably was back then.

“So,” Cordy began. “I saw Spike’s interview this morning.” Buffy avoided her steady gaze, turning away to get a drink out of the fridge.

“You and everybody else. Thank god, I was sleeping at Spike’s. My answering machine had 8 messages by 6:30. It seems everyone got up to see it.” Buffy said, rubbing her hands over her face.

“It was very sweet. I bet people are going to be hounding him to find out who you are.”

“I told him to give me a head’s up, so I could tell my Dad before he found out.”

“Oh, I didn’t think about that. Well, he didn’t get graphic about the sex, so maybe you can skirt the truth.”

Buffy rolled her eyes. “Ok, I’ll let you figure out how to skirt around an one-night stand.”

“Obviously, Spike hasn’t told you how I snared Lindsey.” Cordy said, her face red. “Let’s just say, you and Spike weren’t the only ones to start a relationship in the back room at 14Below.”

Buffy‘s eyes widened and she started giggling uncontrollably. “What would your mother think?” Buffy joked.

“She’d probably send me to Confession.”

Riley peered inside, seeing Buffy and another woman laughing at the counter. He wasn’t stalking her. He just wanted to talk to her without that man around. When he saw him on the TV this morning, he knew this was his chance. Her new boyfriend was in New York, far, far away from California, and Buffy. He straightened his tie, smoothing the wrinkles out of his shirt. He had to make Buffy see him as the man he could be. That was why he’d gotten a 9 to 5 job. It was full-time, and he could get benefits, and set up a 401K. He could be a responsible, hard-working man. He’d do anything to make Buffy accept him, to take him back.

He took a deep breath, and pushed the door opened. Cordy noticed the pained expression on Buffy’s face, and turned to see what had her so concerned.

“Riley, what are you doing here?”

Oh, shit. He’s here. Spike’s not. Cordy reached for her taser.

“Buffy, I didn’t come here to bother you. I know Joyce’s birthday is on Saturday. I just wanted to bring her a gift, and let you know about my new job.”

Buffy came from around the counter, her arms crossed over her chest. Riley held the wrapped box out to her, and she took it from him, her eyes narrowing suspiciously. “I’ll give it to her.”

Riley smiled, surprised Buffy didn’t stomp on the gift with both feet. “I’m working in the mailroom at GE. It’s a good job for someone who doesn’t have a college degree. I can get benefits and everything.”

“That’s great, Riley. I’m really happy for you.” I hope this means I’ll see and hear less from you.

Cordy gave him the once over. Cute. Sounds a bit stupid, but I could be biased. Oh, that’s right. I am. She ran through her list of girlfriends, trying to see which one she could sic on him. The no brains thing was going to be a hard sell. If she had someone who needed a walking, talking vibrator, that’d be another issue all together.

“Still having the surprise party for her?” Riley asked, shifting back and forth. Buffy wondered if his shoes were pressing too tightly or whether the tie was choking him.

“Yes, we are.” She told him, not willing to offer any more information. She hated being so hard and distant with him. They used to share a bed for goodness’ sake. They used to kiss and whisper to each other, but all that seemed so one-dimensional in view of what she was experiencing with Spike. Life with Spike was four-dimensional and in Technicolor.

“I’m sorry for what I said outside of Houston’s the other night.” He looked so sweet. Just like a puppy dog. Buffy felt like the worst kind of bitch for dumping him.

“I know you are, Riley. I didn’t hold it against you. This isn’t easy for any of us.”

“Seems like it to me.” He mumbled under his breath. “Well, I’d better be going. I’m on my lunch break.” He said for them to hear.

“Goodbye Riley.” Buffy said, hoping this would be the final time she said that. She didn’t hate him, but she didn’t want him popping up in her life anymore. She was with Spike, totally and completely.

Marilyn Hayes wrapped her arm around her daughter’s waist as they walked the gardens. “Druscilla, you know I hate William as much as you. I have reasons. What are yours? I agreed to go along with your little lie because I love you, and I want you to be a Governor’s wife. But I want to understand why you hate William so much. He loved you, as best he could with no money.” She said derisively.

They sat on a bench, overlooking a bluff. “He thought he could change me into some silly, pathetic housewife. He had no ambitions. I wanted the world. He only wanted me, his books, and his father. Pathetic, little weakling.” She spat.

Dru shook her head, letting her hair fall in waves on her back. “I hate that he survived our relationship. He’s happy Mother. I saw it written all over his face. That woman, she fixed him, and I hate her for doing it. It simply makes me feel better to know he’s broken and beaten down.” She smiled tightly.

“Have you thought about what will happen when Liam finds out? Dru, are you sure you want to open this can of worms?” Marilyn said, gripping her hands tightly.

“I know what I’m doing, Mother. Do you know what he wrote about me? The things he said. He called me a neurotic bitch. He said I was emotionally empty. He said he was happy to be rid of me. Me, Mother. I was the best thing he ever had, and he has the nerve to dismiss me. No, no one does that to me.”

“Dru, listen to yourself. You willing to risk your abortion coming out to get revenge on William for what? Getting over you.”

Dru pulled away from her mother. “I want it all, Mother. I want Spike on his knees and my husband as Governor. It will happen. I’ve worked too hard to get where I am. I promise you. Everything will be alright.”

Friday

“Dawn, I will be there.” Even if I have to hitchhike cross country to get back to Buffy, I will.

“You didn’t tell Buffy you were coming home, did you?”

Spike rolled his eyes. “No, Bit, I didn’t. As far as your sister knows, I have a interview scheduled for tomorrow afternoon with a writer from the Boston Herald, then I‘m going out with friends. She has no idea I’m coming to the party.”

“Perfect. Mom is totally clueless. She signed off on the menu yesterday for the party, and had no idea she was doing it. Buffy’s been all mopey girl, I’m ready to throw her in the pool and drown her.”

Spike snickered. “Please don’t. I like her alive and kicking.”

“I bet you do, Mr. British man.”

“Impudent, little chit.” He snapped back. Dawn laughed.

“So what’s going on with you? Have you been behaving yourself with Connor, or are you still trying to drive the man to drink?” Spike teased. He knew what was going on with Connor from Cordy and Buffy, but he wanted to hear Dawn’s version. It was always better and more x-rated.

“He’s still trying to pretend that he’s in control. He stood me up the other night, and then got made because I didn’t. I told him I went to the movies with my ex, when he didn’t show.”

Spike chuckled. Connor was getting beat at his own game, and there wasn’t a damn thing anybody could do to help him.

“Bit, just remember, he is a man. He has to have some control in the relationship. You can’t de-ball him completely.”

Dawn twirled her hair around her finger. “I know, but it’s cute to see him pretend he doesn’t like me as much as he does. Hey, did you get Mom something for her birthday.”

“I did, and no, I’m not telling you what it is. You’ll just have to find out when your mom does.”

“Fine, be that way. Hey, I need to go. Big sis at 2 o’clock.” Dawn pulled at her bikini bottom. “Want me to tell Buffy you said hello?”

“No, I’ll talk to her later. Keep an eye on my girl, okay.”

“I will. See ya tomorrow.”

“Who was that Dawn?” Joyce asked when she joined them.

“Oh, nobody important.”

Saturday

“If you keep frowning like that Buffy, your face is going to sag.” Dawn commented from her spot on the bed.

Buffy rolled her eyes, screaming in frustration at what her hair wasn’t doing. “I just don’t understand why he hasn’t called me back.” She said, pulling the brush through her hair.

“Are you trying to pull your hair out?” Tara asked, plucking the brush out of Buffy’s hands.

“He told you he was going out tonight with friends. Really, Buffy, you can’t expect him to be at your beck and call.” Tara kidded her. She winked at Willow, who was sitting on the bed sucking on a lollipop.

Dawn couldn’t keep a secret if her life depended on it, so she’d spilled the beans to them about Spike’s return yesterday. And being Buffy’s best friends, they had proceeded to mention or comment on Spike every chance they got. By Saturday morning, she was whipped up into a nice, little frenzy.

Buffy sulked. “I don‘t. I just wanted to talk to him before we left. I don’t even know when he’s coming in tomorrow.”

“Buffy, whatever time the man comes in, you’ll be waiting with your knickers down at your feet.” Tara quipped, piling Buffy’s hair on top of her head.

“Knickers? You’ve been spending too much time watching public television.” Buffy told her.

“Knickers, underwear. I wouldn’t be surprised if you showed up at the airport in a trench coat and nothing else.”

Buffy lowered her face, trying to hide the blush creeping up her cheeks. “Oh, good lord. You were not planning on meeting him at the airport like that?” Willow asked flabbergasted.

“Damn, Buffy. What is it with you and Spike? You haven‘t been acting yourself since he left. Is the sex that good?” Dawn asked her slyly.

“Yes, it’s that good. And sleeping in his bed, rolling around on his sheets hasn’t helped my sanity either. Also, I’m trying to come to terms with the fact, I’m head over heels in love with him.”

Three sets of mouths dropped open, and closed. For a moment, Buffy thought she was at an open-mouthed bass convention. After Willow made her comment about being in love with Spike, Buffy had gone home, packed a bag and headed to Spike’s. She thought about denying it, but knew it was wasted energy. She’d been in love with him since that night in the hotel, and time and distance weren’t going to change that. The man could go to Africa, and she’d sit patiently at home, waiting for him to return. Who was she kidding? She’d be on the first plane dragging his ass back.

“So, do you guys like the dress?” Buffy asked, ignoring the knowing looks from the three of them. She stood up and turned in a circle. The dress was heather grey in color with soft muted fuchsia flowers emblazoned across the torso and back. There was a slit which stopped just below her thigh. The material was ruffled, so her leg didn’t show unless she moved.

“Very nice. Accessible.” Dawn remarked. Tara and Willow shook their heads in amazement at her brazenness.

“What? Accessible. Oh, yeah, Dawn. It makes going to the bathroom, just that much easier.” Buffy remarked, putting her earrings on.

“You know Dawnie, Buffy. Always the kidder.” Tara squeezed Dawn’s shoulder, glaring at her. Dawn, being Dawn, shrugged, and went to get her purse out of her room.

Buffy stuck her head out the door, yelling down the hall. “Dawn, did you make sure Mom’s gift was covered when you left the museum?”

“Yes, stop being such a worry-wort. Everything is fine, Buffy. You planned a terrific surprise party, and Mom planned a terrific benefit. Now, let’s go. We don’t want to be late for the surprise.”

Hank hugged his daughters as they arrived. Standing back and beaming with pride at the three women in his life. “May I say, I’m the luckiest man in the world to be blessed with such beauty.”

Buffy grinned. “Daddy, stop it. You’re going to make us blush.”

“Don’t stop, Daddy. Pile it on. I don’t mind.”

“Mom, the place looks great.” Buffy told her mother as Joyce walked up to them.

“It does, doesn’t it? Francesca and her crew were working right up till we opened the doors. And the brochure for tonight came out beautifully. Thank you so much for preparing it, Buffy.” Joyce bent down to kiss Buffy, smiling when she saw Willow and Tara.

“I must admit your father is right. You girls all look so beautiful.”

“You do too, Mom.” Dawn commented, admiring the way the salmon colored sheath hugged Joyce’s body. “You’ve really kept your body up.”

“Thank you, Dawn.” Joyce said, smiling.

“Ah, here comes Liam and Druscilla Cavanaugh. You met him the other night, didn’t you Buffy?”

“Yes, I did.” She stated dryly. The man had given her the creeps. He kept leering at her, and not in the good Spikey way, but in the dirty, icky way pimps looked at prostitutes.

“Liam, Druscilla, I’d like for you to meet my family. I believe you’ve already met my daughter, Elizabeth.” Buffy saw Liam’s eyes widened with recognition. She gamely stuck her hand out and shook his and his wife’s.

“This is my youngest daughter, Dawn. My surrogate daughters, Willow and Tara.”

“It’s so good to meet you.” Druscilla drawled.

“Do you shop at Harry’s in San Marino?” Buffy asked. Dru’s brow quirked.

“Ah, no. Sorry. I don’t.” She stammered.

“My mistake.” Buffy smiled when she saw the dark look that passed over Liam’s face. Take that bitch. Thought I didn’t remember you.

“I want to thank each and every one of you for coming out to our little benefit tonight. The Jackman Museum thanks you for your interest and your contributions. Without your support, we wouldn’t be able to bring the world’s masterpieces to our fair city.” Joyce bowed at the applause that greeted her speech.

“Joyce, there was a mix-up at the airport, and that piece you ordered from Japan just arrived.” Hank announced as a pedestal was rolled from the back by Francesca Durante, Joyce’s assistant.

“Oh, that’s just great. Now, it comes after I’ve gotten you to spend all your money.” Those who remained were here for the private birthday bash, and knew the piece was a gift from her husband and her kids.

Buffy and Dawn stood to one side, and Hank was on the other. Willow and Tara pulled out their camera, waiting for the right moment to snap the picture.

“Here, let me help you Mom.” Buffy offered. They managed to pull the cover off without Joyce seeing the placard on the other side.

“Turn it around. This doesn’t look Japanese. Oh, my.” Joyce cried when she saw the message scrawled in red ink. “Happy Birthday!”

The guest yelled surprise, and the lights dimmed, as a huge cake was rolled out, candles burning brightly.

“Hank, I can’t believe you did this.” Joyce said, hugging her husband tightly.

“Make a wish! Make a wish!” Dawn shouted.

“I already have everything I wanted.” Joyce closed hers eyes before blowing the candles out, with the assistance of her daughters.

“Yay. Happy Birthday, Mom.” Buffy said, kissing Joyce on the cheek. “Surprise.”

Joyce wiped at the tears at the corners of her eyes. “I can’t believe you tricked me.” Her hand traced the cold, black marble of the sculpture.

“Is this Udele?” Joyce asked, blown away by the efforts of her family to surprise her.

“Yes. Dawn found it at the Magic Box.” Buffy answered, wistfully. The Magic Box, another place imbued with Spike’s essence.

“Did Spike know about this too?” Joyce said, looking over Buffy’s head to the blonde man standing behind her.

“Yeah, he did. He wanted to be here, but his trip was planned before he knew us.”

Spike grinned, wanting to pick the perfect time to surprise her. He was also trying to decide if Joyce would take offense if he threw Buffy over his shoulder and marched out the door. He tapped on Buffy’s shoulder, and waited as she turned. Her face crumbled as she threw herself into his arms.

“What are you doing here?” She gasped, reaching up to kiss him. “You lied to me. You said you weren’t coming back till tomorrow.”

Spike kissed her cheek, breathing in her scent. “I can leave and come back.”

Buffy’s hand snaked around his neck. “Oh, no, you don’t. There will be no leaving without me. I am so happy you’re home.”

“I know the feeling, Pet.” Joyce yanked on Hank’s arm, drawing his attention away from the man trying to shove his tongue down his daughter’s throat.

“We used to do the same thing, Hank.”

“Used to.” He said, grasping her around the waist. “Still do.”

“Eww! I’m scarred.” Dawn said.

Buffy looked deeply into Spike’s eyes. “I missed you so much. There wasn’t a day when you were gone, I didn’t think about you.”

“I know. I realized something while I was gone, Pet.”

“Me, too.”

“I..” He never got to finish.

“Hello, William.”