A Place to Belong

Authors: Farah & Mera

Italics & *& capitals = emphasize
~ = thoughts
{ = author M -not many-untimely notes (I couldn't help my self lol)

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
 
 
 

~Part: 21~

"That was amazing!" An ecstatic Gunn said while opening the hotel door. Cordelia followed and instantly twined her arm with his. A grumbling Fred and Lorne entered after them, with an amused Wesley pulling up the rear.

"What are you talking about Charles? That was horrible!" Fred exclaimed.

Gunn stopped walking at that, and turned at her with an appalled look. "Horrible!" He  cried. "That ballet was amazing, absolutely perfect."

"That's coz they've been doing it for a hundred years!" Gunn brushed that off as if it didn't matter. "It was great." He counted, "Great seats, great food and one hell of a fight!" He nodded emphatically while Fred rolled her eyes.

"Oh!" He remembered dreamily, "not to mention." A coughing Cordy and an elbow to the rib interrupted him. Cordelia gave him a look that said 'later'.

"Not to mention what, Charles?" Wesley asked innocently.

"Well. uh."

"Nothing!" Cordelia said, she smiled sweetly and turned their attention to a still grumbling Lorne. "And what's up with you?"

"Well, princess. I happen to have spent the worst night a music loving demon can have." He started retelling his long filled night with terrible singers that absolutely desecrated the names of several dead artists.

Wesley smiled and shook his head. He then headed towards the office to inform Angel of their return, leaving behind him the still badgering Fred and Lorne who were convinced that their night was jinxed.

"Angel we've just." He stopped mid-sentence. "Oh dear!"

The crew turned as one when they heard the exclamation. They saw Wesley standing in the doorway gaping. They practically ran to see what was so wrong that could cause Wes to act that way. Surprisingly it was Cordelia who reached him first.

"Oh My God!" she said covering her mouth, "What happened?"

They all absorbed the room's state. Papers everywhere, the large desk tipped over, the leather chair on its side by the wall, and the wooden coat hanger on the floor, like a corpse lying there with its arms broken.

The sight caused the five friends to look at each other with fright. Something, an intruder, had entered their office and no doubt attacked Angel.

Lorne and Fred looked at each other and silently communicated, "Spike!" they yelled in unison and ran up the stairs. The three remaining friends stood there for a second before following.

They reached the floor in time to see their two friends enter Spike's apartment. Finally catching up to them, they only saw an empty room.

"He hasn't slept in his bed!" Fred said frantically. The bed hasn't been slept in. The room was the same it was when she and Lorne left Spike to reflect on himself.

******

Angel heard the racket from down stairs and realized that the others had come back. He knew he should head down and reassure his friends that he was OK, but he was reluctant to leave his boy alone. It wasn't until the noise reached Spike's room and became louder and more pronounced that he got out to intercept them before they came into his  room to find him and woke Spike.

******

Fred was feeling guilty leaving Spike on his own while they left and enjoyed the night. Even if their night ended with them fighting an obsessed wizard with happy and sad faces ~ what was that about anyway? ~

Cordy was having somewhat similar thoughts about Angel. She decided that they should check Angel's room as well; perhaps they'd find some clues.

Intending to do just that they were interrupted by a bare chested Angel blocking their way out of Spike's room. "Could you guys maybe lower your voices a little?" he asked.

"Angel!" The ex-cheerleader ran into his arms. "Are you OK? The office was."

"I'm fine Cordy. I just didn't have time to tidy it up before you came back." He said looking down at her. He distantly heard Gunn growl ~ huh he's been doing that a lot lately ~ suddenly Cordelia was out of his arms and slapping his face?

"Don't you dare scare me like that again, mister!" Angel rubbed his cheek ~ ow that hurt ~. Cordelia had been training really well with Gunn.

"If I might ask, Angel?" Wesley stepped forward, "What prevented you from cleaning the office?"

"Well I was kinda distracted by rescuing Spike." That far too casual sentence caused Fred to jump, "Spike!" She advanced Angel, "what happened to Spike?"

Angel looked around at his friends' worried faces in particular the scared look that was on both Lorne and Fred's. He wanted to slap himself. ~ What a way to break that news Angel! ~

Lorne interrupted Angel's thoughts, "Is he OK Angel? Where is he?" he asked anxiously.

Before the dark vampire could reply, the object of there discussion appeared at the doorway.

"Spike!" Fred yelled and ran pass Angel, closely followed by Lorne, to check on their friend. Spike stood there looking at them with sleep-filled eyes. He rubbed them to drive the sleep away. Cordelia couldn't believe that she was thinking that a century-old-vampire could look so cute with his hair sticking everywhere like that, the only thing that disturbed the sight were the several angry bites marring his torso.

Lorne seem to have noticed the same. "Not that I mind the bare chest look on you blue eyes, but what's the deal with the nibbleies?" he asked pointing at the bites. Spike looked down, raised an eyebrow. "Well, mate. It seems some vamps though I looked good enough to eat."

"God are you OK?" Fred asked clearly not seeing the funny in that.

 "Yah, pet. Angel put a right stop to that real fast." He said glancing at the older vampire.

"Uhm guys? Do you think you can leave Spike and I alone. We really need to talk." Angel said mostly addressing Spike's two worried friends. Lorne gazed at him with a too knowing look on his face. "Sure Angel Cakes. C'mon sugar lets leave them two vamps to do their talk." Fred looked between the three of them then sighed. She hugged Spike then turned towards Wesley, kissed him on the cheek and bid them all goodnight before heading off with Lorne up to their floor.

Cordelia shrugged, held on to Gunn's arm, and said their goodnight then left as well. That left only Angel, Spike and Wesley. The two vampires paid the ex-watcher no attention, as they were still engrossed in their staring match.

"See you tomorrow, Wes." Angel said hazily before he and Spike reentered his room.

Wesley shook his head and wondered while descending the stairs if his job as a watcher ever ended. He then grumbled remembering the ransacked office, which no doubt was up to him to clean up. He made a mental note to ask Angel tomorrow how *that* happened.

******

Angel closed the door behind them while Spike sat back down on the bed. The tall brunet hesitated before approaching his bed and sat the farthest there was from Spike, barely sitting on the bed.

"Angel?"

Angel fell down with a thump. Spike hid a snicker as his *sire* tried to compose himself. He stood and started brushing invisible dust off his silk pants?

 ~ Nice! ~

"Um, peaches?" Spike asked trying to bring back Angel's attention. "What's wrong?" He sounded concerned.

Angel looked up when he heard the worried tone. His guilt-filled eyes met Spike's questioning ones.

Spike tilted his head and indicated for Angel to sit beside him. He paused before doing that, sitting down next to his childe then looked up at him with unease.

"See, mate. That wasn't hard was it? No biting or anything!" Angel chuckled at Spike's attempt to ease him.

"No, no biting." He timidly touched the now fading bites on Spike's chest and then rested his finger on a specific one on his neck, softly caressing it. Spike gasped then moaned as Angel rubbed it more with his thumb.

"Sire please." Spike pleaded looking up at his master with such trust.

It took only a second for Angel to realize what he was being asked, then dove into the inviting open mouth his words swallowed by the intensity of their kiss. Angel bit both their tongues mixing their blood causing the rich nostalgic taste to fill his mouth. Spike, feeling stronger now, drew Angel closer down on him, tangling his fingers in the perfect brown hair. Hands were everywhere at once.

Angel was lost in the sensation that was his childe. Only groans and moans of pleasure could be heard from the two desperate men. He started kissing down Spike's chest electing even more moans. He slid further down continually kissing the pale flesh when a hand stopped him from reaching his destination. He raised his head and looked at Spike.

~ I wondered how long it would take him to remember he hates me ~ Angel thought miserably.

Spike looked at him sideways, "I don't hate you." He pointed at his head when Angel appeared shocked. "We just shared blood, mate. I can sense what you feel."

"But how could you not?" Angel asked desperately.

"Coz you're my sire." Spike replied plainly.

"That's more reason to hate me." he said full of self-loathing. "As your sire I should have known! You've said it more than once."

Spike raised Angel's head and caressed it gently. "No, that's more reason that you didn't."  He smiled softly when he saw the questioning gaze, "I didn't let you know." The younger vampire placed his finger on Angel's lips to silence him. "I know the link wasn't open then, but it wasn't closed completely. I couldn't let you sense it." He began massaging the lower lip. "Couldn't see the hate in your eyes." Looking up from the opening lips to sad eyes.

Angel removed the finger, "I would've never hated you because of that." "I know that now." Spike chuckled, "I guess it was the fledgling in me. I was scared. I mean all those years Angelus spent kicking the human out of me and here I am having a soul all that time."

Angel sat up. "I am not Angelus." He said firmly, "I would never hurt you that way." He smiled wistfully looking down at their now entwined hands. "You know, he loved you in his own demented way." Spike nodded his head.

"Do you know that *I* love you?" He asked hopefully not looking up.

"Ya!" Spike replied fervently. "How could I not. Your blood was screaming it." He laughed quietly. Then his demeanor turned serious. "What did mine tell you?"

Angel looked back at him sheepishly. "Well, the whole soul thing took me by surprise."

"And now?"

Angel closed his eyes and concentrated, opening them slowly as they shone with unshed tears. "All that time.?"

"Never could stop loving you, Angelus, Angel it didn't matter. You were still my sire then and you still are now." Spike's voice was hoarse with tears.

Angel quickly held him whispering reassurance of love and that no matter what, he was always proud of him. "And that's both of us speaking the demon *and* the soul." He then captured the soft lips. This kiss was different from the first. The first was about being accepted. This was about comfort, of love and trust. Hands resumed the paths they were taking before.

A muffled "no" was said before a flushed blond vampire pulled back.

"Wh.what's wrong?" Angel asked confused. "I thought you wanted this?"

"I do. But I'm not too thrilled with a revival of 'near world end', again."

Angel felt regret remembering what the crazed version of his ultra ego did in Sunnydale, especially to the ones he loved the most. Then a small laugh began to build.

"Hey." Spike inched away. "You're not *too* happy, are you?"

"Spike me boy, I've never been happier." Angel had a strong grip on Spike's arm that prevented the other vampire from leaving. He stooped laughing when he noticed the truly horrified look the now other souled vampire had. He loosened his grip a little but didn't let go. ~ Never again! ~

"Sorry that I scared you, Wil'" Spike calmed down when he heard that serene tone and was warmed by the mention of his old name. ~pfft this soul is turning me into a sentimental poof ~

"What was all the hooting about then?"

"I was laughing coz I remembered that Angelus can *NEVER* come back when we're together, that's all."

Hurt filled Spike's eyes again. "That's all! Let go of me ya pillock."

Angel sighed and held on. ~ What's with me and always saying the wrong thing? ~

"Spike listen, please." Spike looked up from his attempts to trying to free his arm when he heard the plea.

"I wasn't saying that I won't feel perfect happiness with you because that'd be a lie." He let go to run his hand through his tousled hair. "I felt perfect happiness when you gave yourself back to me and accepted me as your sire again. I'm not gonna lose my soul if we have sex because well." He mumbled the rest quickly in a low voice.

"Huh?" Spike's brows furrowed, he only caught a few words.

"OK don't freak. I had sex with Darla last year."

"What do you mean you.!?"

"Shouldn't the question start with how? How could I have had sex with her if she's dust?" Angel asked confused.

"Well I would if Dru hadn't came back to Sunnyhell and told me everything."

"Oh. So you know all about the lawyers bringing back Darla, Dru turning her, me going crazy and letting them kill a bunch of said lawyers."  Angel questioned him.

"Yep, not to mention other details filled in by Lorne and Cor. Now what no one mentioned was that you had sex with the blond bitchiness and how they restored your soul with Red being back in Sunnydale?"

"Simple, I didn't lose it." Angel raised his hand. "Let me explain. When Darla and I had sex, it wasn't anything like with Buffy. With Buffy, I forgot who I really was, a vampire. I saw myself *a human* when I was with her. There, at that moment I felt like she and I were the same -human. I lost my hold on reality and in turn my soul. With Darla I didn't forget, couldn't forget, what I was. I didn't lose my soul, if anything happened it got more secure. She didn't make me happy."

He traced Spike's angular face. "With you, I remember who I really am like with Darla. But I'm perfectly happy like with Buffy, if not more." He kissed him on his eyes, cheeks, lips while saying, "You're beautiful, brave, loyal, strong, and I love you more than anything."

Spike's eyes started tearing up; no one ever said such things about him before. He tilted his head and took hold of Angel's lips in one of the sweetest kisses. Leaning his head against his sire's he said whispered, "Thank you."

Angel stroked his back fondly, and laid his head on the soft blond one.

"Angel?"

"Ya?"

"Could we maybe take it slow from here?"

Angel hugged him close. "Whatever you want." He intended to let go against his better judgment to allow Spike to go back to his own room. Spike did something that surprised Angel. He held on tighter and borrowed his head into his sire's shoulder. "Can I stay here tonight?" an anxious Spike asked the mumbled question.

Angel smiled widely, raised the hiding head and captured the pink lips in a hungry kiss.

Spike looked back at Angel when the kiss ended, with glazed eyes, "You're gonna make me regret wanting to wait aren't you?"

Angel only chuckled. He lay down, clicked the light on the nightstand off. He then pulled Spike back into his arms, kissed him again, then covered them with one of the blankets.

"Good night, Wil'"

"Good night, Li. Angel."

"You can call me Liam if you want, Spike."

Spike smiled widely in the dark, Angel had practically said that they were equals.

"We are, Wil'" Angel whispered hearing Spike's unasked question.

 .. "Good night, Liam."

~Part: 22~

A loud screech was heard all over the hotel .

"What did you just say?!"

Cordelia Chase stared at the two vampires in disbelief. Their words still echoed in her mind and didn't make any sense.

"Cordy, don't panic ."

"What do you mean don't panic?" she interrupted Angel sharply. "You're here telling me that *Xander* is alive and expect me to not panic?"

"Well, technically he's not ."

"I don't care about 'technically'! I want to see my friend. Do you hear me? I want to see Xander!" Her eyes started to tear up and Angel went to hug her but pulled back when he heard Gunn growl.

Gunn walked towards his girlfriend and drew her into his strong arms. He looked directly at both vampires and demanded, "If you know how to bring this Xander fellow, do it now!"

Spike sighed. "The only way for Xander to show is to call 'im and make 'im feel welcome."

Angel waved a hand at Spike. "You do it. I don't think I have the ability to."

Spike rolled his eyes at the remark then looked straight ahead. "Xander! Come 'ere, mate." he called.

Cordelia pulled herself from her boyfriend's embrace. "Xander Harris, show your dead self here, right now!" she yelled.

"Hey guys."

All of them looked up at the dark-haired young man who was sitting Indian style in the middle of air smiling down at them.

Cordelia gasped and punched Spike on the arm. "Why didn't you tell me that he was a genie?"

"Oi!" Spike glared at her rubbing his arm, "he's not a genie you stupid bint. He's a GG."

Xander glared down at the smirking vamp. "Is that right, ex-BB?" He stressed on the last word.

Spike growled. "Come down 'ere and I'll show what the ex-B . the Big Bad can do!"

Xander smirked. "Why don't *you* come up here."

"Xander!" The blonde vampire barked.

"Spike!"

"Xander, Spike." Angel mimicked quietly.

"Children!" Wesley quieted everybody and looked around. Fred and Lorne were sitting silently on the couch. They hadn't said a peep since Angel and Spike broke the news about Xander. Gunn was still holding on to Cordy's arm and Xander was floating tauntingly over Angel. Spike was looking miffed at the two silently bickering dark-haired men.

Wesley turned all his attention to Xander. "Mr. Harris, I can't express enough how we are *all* happy to see you among us." He looked threateningly at Angel who tried to protest. "Perhaps you can enlighten us about your fascinating situation?"

Xander's brows rose in astonishment. ~ Wow I'm Mr. Harris now! ~ Then a goofy grin presented on his face. "Why it is my pleasure Mr. Wyndam-Pryce to tell you about my 'fascinating situation'." he said in a dreadfully fake British accent.

Wesley sighed. ~ Nearly three years, a death later, and the boy still hadn't changed one bit. ~

Cordelia, looking up at the floating figure asked, "Xander?"

As Xander smiled softly at her, he untangled his feet and lowered his gliding form until his feet were one inch above the floor. That's when Cordelia threw herself at him, sniffling softly with her face buried in his shoulder. He stroked her hair gently, muttering soft words to her.

Suddenly Cordelia pulled back and Xander was struck by the hard look in her eyes. She began waving her finger in front of his face, yelling. "How could you, Xander Harris? You chose to go to Spike first and told him you were alive and not me? Don't think I deserve to know. You didn't care about my feelings ... ?"

"Well, technically ..."

"Well, *technically* wood can kill you." she deadpanned interrupting Angel.

Spike snickered as he watched his sire cowered back.

Cordy turned to Xander. "I'm your ex-girlfriend. You owed me that at least, mister!" She raised her hand to pull at his ear, and watched fascinated as her hand went through his head. Her eyes widened in shock and she pulled it back not failing to notice the strange warmth that her hand passed through.

"Wow!" Gunn exclaimed. "What the hell happened?"

Spike grumbled. "At least she didn't hit the wall."

"Well I didn't mean that!" Xander defended. "That was an accident, this isn't."

Cordelia looked at him angrily. "What isn't?"

"Oh come on CC." Xander smiled when he heard Spike groan at the nickname. "Do you think I'd let you hurt me?"

Cordelia watched him with wide eyes that quickly filled with tears. She raised her hands, covered her face, and turned her back to Xander. "I thought you were dead. Do you know how long I cried every night thinking that I'll never ever see you again?" she said between sobs.

Xander gasped. "Oh Cordy." He said while he came over in front of her and hugged her. She hugged him back and laid her head on his shoulder. Spike heard Gunn's growl but stopped him from doing anything, laying his hand on the black young man's arm and indicated with his eyes at the brunette young woman. They both smiled evilly noticing her wide smirk.

Xander was oblivious to what is going on behind his back. He kept mumbling soothing words to Cordy.

Suddenly Cordelia had her hand firmly clasped on Xander's ear and pulled hard.

"Ow... ow!" Xander tried to wrench his ear from her grasp but the firm grip held on tight. "Cord, that hurts let go!" Xander whined.

Cordelia released her hold and quickly punched him on the arm. "That would show you that no one can escape the wrath of Queen C."

~ Great punch Cord! ~ Angel snickered lowly while silently he cheered on the secretary.

Away from the others, Fred and Lorne were setting on the gray sofa. "So, this is Xander, huh?" Fred said eyeing the young man being pushed around by the thriving actress.

"Apparently, yes." Lorne whispered back.

"He looks Ok, almost like Angel though. I mean he's all tall, large bodied and the dark hair that goes with the whole look, except for eyes. I mean they're bigger and round almost ... puppy like."

Lorne frowned thinking. "Hmm, puppy eyes, you think I can call our now-other-dark-hair-cutie that?"

Fred chuckled. "Don't think he'll like that, Lorne."

"Fred!"

She turned to see Spike waving at both of them to come over. She and Lorne walked towards the excited blonde who now held her close and turned to Xander. "This is Fred, mate. Fred, Xander." Xander shook her hand smiling sweetly at her. Fred smiled back and shook his hand excitedly.

"And this is Lorne." Xander shook the green demon's hand ~ I know them already but Spike looks so excited about this so.. ~ The young soul thought positively.

"Whoa . Wait a sec; I thought Xander couldn't touch demons, how come he's shaking hands with Lorne?" Angel gaped at the two.

Wesley looked at Xander an interested look in his eyes, while the soul corrected. "I can't touch creatures without souls. As for demons, not all of them are soulless." He smiled back at Lorne. "Lorne has a soul just like you and Spike."

"What?" Cordelia gasped.

"Spike has a soul?" Wesley asked in amazement, looking at the blonde-haired vampire.

Angel placed himself in front of his childe. Spike bit his lip, but smiled at Angel's attempt to protect him.

"You knew!" Cordelia pointed an accusing finger at Angel. "You didn't tell *me*!" She sounded indignant. Xander snickered at the squirming vampire. ~ Well he did laugh at *me* when I had Cordy hanging on my ear! ~

"When did this happen?" Gunn asked looking at Spike.

Xander glanced at Spike and answered. "I don't know." He looked at Gunn. "That doesn't matter anyway, right? The important thing is that he has a soul, knowing that doesn't change anything than..."

Wesley intercepted. "Yes, in normal account it would not matter, we have trusted Spike and considered him to be one of us before we knew there was a soul involved. What intrigues me is how, but since you haven't any information concerning Spike's soul, perhaps you can give us some concerning your situation now?"

Xander sighed ~ that is one knowledge hungry ex-watcher ~ "Well as I said to Spike before it all started ." Xander repeated what he had said to Spike yesterday, leaving out the personal parts, "and that's basically what my guide told me."

"Your guide?" Angel asked half knowing the answer.

Xander looked at him. "Yes, Doyle." Xander replied softly.

"Doyle!" Cordelia whispered sadly, remembering her dead friend. Xander noticed the tears that gathered in her eyes, he approached and held her. "Is he okay?" she asked.

"Yeah, he is."

Noticing everyone's attention on Wesley who was now talking, Xander whispered in Cordy's ear. "When you go to your apartment, call my name, okay?"

She looked at him puzzled, but nodded. Xander hid the amazed look from his face. Usually Cordelia would demand to know 'What's up, now', but she just nodded and actually agreed to wait. He smiled. ~ Cordelia changed a lot ~

"That sounds absolutely marvelous!" An excited Wesley turned to Xander, "Perhaps you can tell me more about your condition in my office Mr. Harris."

"Not now, mate. It's my turn to have him." Spike saved the life of his best friend from the knowledge wanting crazy ex-watcher, as he dragged him to his room. Angel grimaced at the sight of the running and *giggling* men ~ and what does he mean by 'have him'? ~

Wesley sighed with disappointment then he heard Angel's growl. His eyes lit up as he dragged a confused Angel to his office saying, "I suppose *you* can give me some information, wouldn't you Angel?" Angel's groan could be heard from outside the office.

Cordelia turned happy eyes to her boyfriend. "Okay, I think this deserves a celebration."

Gunn leered. "What kind of celebration do you have in mind?"

She gave him a sexy smile as they exited the hotel doors, leaving only Fred and Lorne, who rolled their eyes at them, in the main lobby.

"Well, that was interesting." Fred said as she turned to Lorne. "So, your room or mine?"

Lorne gave her a confused look. "What?" he asked.

"You know, it's Monday, the day when you, me and Spike hang out. Since Spike is with Xander now I assumed ...."

"Oh Sugar," Lorne sounded sorry, "I have to be at Caritas tonight. There is this new bartender so ..." He noticed the sad look that settled upon her face, "maybe I can ..."

"No, no, no" she interrupted. "You have an important job. You have to go."

"But you ."

"I'll be fine; really, I can spend the day reading."

"Are you sure?"

"Yes, go now." As she shooed him out, he laughed repeating, "Okay, okay I'm going."

She watched him leave as the smile on her face faded. She looked around the empty hotel lobby sadly from where she stood. Sighing, she took hold of the banister and went upstairs to her room alone.

~~~*~~~

Angel followed Wesley into the office and closed the door behind him. Wes paid the tall vampire no attention as he began to rummage through several books by the bookcase.

Angel felt awkward standing there doing nothing and started fidgeting. The shuffling of feet brought back the ex-watcher's attention.

"Oh! Angel, I beg your pardon, please sit."

He reluctantly sat on the chair and looked at Wesley who took a seat behind the desk. He gazed back at the door wishing he could be somewhere else ~ like with Spike, away from Xander ~ Angel frowned ~ and what *did* he mean by have him?! ~

Wesley hid a smile as he noticed Angel growling at the door, "I doubt that the door poses you any threat, Angel."

The vampire started out of his thoughts at his friend's voice.

"Huh?" he looked confused, "You said something, Wes?"

Wesley now let out an amused chuckle. "No Angel, nothing at all."

"Oh, okay. So you wanted information?"

"Yes, I assumed that you have some, giving that you and Spike talked about it, yes?"

"Amm info about .. ?"

"About Spike's soul and Xander's reappearance of course." Wesley said exasperated, where was Angel when they were all discussing it. Angel looked down at his hands and mumbled something. "You haven't talked about it yet! What did you two do all last night?"

Angel smiled warmly as he remembered the events of the night before. Wesley blushed when he noticed. "Perhaps it's wiser if you don't tell me."

Angel blinked then let out a small laugh. "It's not what you think, Wes." He leaned back in the chair. "We just talked for most of the night, kissed." Angel stopped when he saw Wesley fumbling with his glasses. "I'm your friend Angel; we've been through a lot together, but please refrain from telling me about your. sexual life."

Now Angel let out a full-blown laugh. "Nothing happened, Wes. We just talked and kissed, that's all. Not that I wouldn't have minded more..."

"Angel, please!"

~ **mental snicker** Wes is so easy sometimes ~ Angel smiled at the thought of having fun with his friend and frowned when he considered his last sentence. Wesley noticing this asked, "Something bothering you Angel?"

"Well." Angel knotted his hands, but knowing he could trust Wesley to help him, he asked, "He said he wanted to wait, should I be concerned?"

Wesley smiled tenderly at how Angel looked like a worried young boy asking him that question; he looked his human age wringing his hands like that in worry. "I wouldn't be troubled much about it. Spike had been through a lot these last few months and -no offence Angel- your history together."

"I know, I know." Angel sighed. "I left him more than once, broke his heart more times than I can count. But this time is different!" Angel insisted.

"I know that. Moreover, I think he does as well. but giving him time to make his own decision will insure his place in this. That is what you want, is it not?"

Angel nodded his head in affirmative. "I do." he said but something in his voice clearly showed that he was still bothered.

"Are you worried about his intentions to Mr. Harris?"

"Am I that easy to read?" he smiled.

"I'm afraid you are," Wes replied with his own smile. "But in regards to Xander's reappearance, what would you do if say. Doyle came back?"

"I would spend as much time as I could with him," the older man sighed understanding where his friend was heading with this but still not stopping him; he needed to hear this.

"And say that you felt responsible about his death, even if you venomously deny it, what would you do then?"

"What are you trying to say?"

"That Xander is not a threat to you, what else!"

Angel groaned, "I am that easy to read!" He then blinked, "Hey I just realized that you complained about talking about the sex that didn't actually happen and not about why *it* shouldn't happen."

"And why is that?"

"Um. *Angelus*."

"Oh Angel, do you see me so careless."

"Well no."

"After your little *fling*, and I use the term lightly, with Darla I did some research. And all of what I came up with proved that you can't lose your soul with a vampire."

"The 'remembering who and what I am' thing, right?"

"Yes, exactly. Not only that but when you and Darla. 'Did the deed' as Lorne referred to it, your history with her; the bloodshed, her recent humanity and loss of it actually helped bind your demon and soul together. In conclusion, Angelus is not a problem."

Angel visibly relaxed on the chair in relief. "Whoa, that's actually what I told Spike why I won't lose my soul, not in exact words but yah."

"You knew this?"

"Well, not really. I thought it was, you know a theory."

"You weren't sure! And if given the chance, you would've actually had sex!?" the Englishman asked irately.

"Hey you knew all this and didn't even tell me!" Angel retorted.

"Well I assumed that you would come to me first before..."

"I would've."

"Really?" He sounded unsure.

"Sure, I would've been really tense coz of the obvious reason of me not being. sated, but I would've."

"Thanks Angel, that means a lot." Wesley sounded sincere.

Angel leaned forward. "It shouldn't be a surprise, Wes. I think of you as my best friend."

Wesley smiled. "As you I, Angel."

Angel peered down at one of the books Wesley had placed on the desk. "Need any help?"

"Oh yes, please. Some of these are demonic languages that I think you are more familiar of then I."

"No problem." Angel picked the book and started reading. "Thanks, Wes." he said without looking up.

"No problem, Angel."

~~~*~~~

"Was it that horrible?"

Spike worriedly asked Xander who was sitting next to him- or altered himself to be sitting in Spike's level- about his funeral. Xander took a deep breath, saying. "Yeah, it was. I mean Anya was ..." He paused a bit. "She was so broken. She was hugging the gravestone and Giles had to pull her away from it when they had to leave. She .uh she was crying all the time, Willow too and Dawn wasn't even reacting. It was good that Tara was there. She was the dependable one."

Spike swallowed, wondering if he should ask this question or not, he decided to ask. "What about your folks?" he asked in a low voice.

"Giles talked to them. My father who was, by the way, in the highest level of *drunkenness* was all like 'good riddance' but my mother went. Uncle Rory was there, too. He was hitting on every girl at the funeral and poor Tara was trying to keep things under control. It was so embarrassing." Xander chuckled bitterly.

Spike ran a soothing hand over Xander's back. They sat in silence for a minute before Spike asked, "How's everybody now?"

Xander went rigid then stuffily turned to face Spike nervously. "I ."

Spike smiled. "It's alright, Xander. I know you were checking up on them."

Xander looked guilty. "I shouldn't have, they treated you like shit and deserted you."

"But you love them. We both still love them. Now tell me, is it bad?" Spike didn't know what his feeling were exactly towards the remaining Scoobies but for Xander's sake, he'd act like he does. All he knew was that he cared enough to know.

Xander sighed. "What can I say? Everything was so missed up. After the funeral, Anya locked herself in the apartment, away from everyone. She couldn't believe that I was dead; she didn't even take off the engagement ring. Tara was the one who made her leave the apartment. They were slowly coping except for Willow. She couldn't handle the lost of *both* best friends. She started to use too much magic, Tara and Giles were always advising her against practicing. She promised Tara to go a week with out magic, but she was feeling bad about both mine and Buffy's deaths and she saw that everyone was sad as well, so she cast a spell to make them forget their misery and the spell went wrong. Everyone lost their memories and ." He trailed off remembering that night events. Spike's eyes widened, "Oh God, what happened?"

"Willow and Tara thought they were only study buds from college. Little Dawnie was so scared and confused and alone. Giles and Anya woke next to each other, so they assumed they knew each other. Um . they thought they were engaged because of the ring and the fact that they both owned the shop. While the others went to find a hospital they stayed and," a little pause, "they had sex with each other." He said the last part in a very low voice.

Spike gathered the sad soul to his arms, with Xander's head on his shoulder. He had a pang in his chest. It was his fault. If he hadn't taken Xander with him to L.A. that night, he would've been with his fiancée right now and be with his friends and *he* would still have his family. Spike tightened his embrace, muttering softly, "I'm sorry, Xander. I wish. "

"No" Xander said staring emotionlessly at the wall. "It's not your fault. Don't you *ever* think that, okay?" He sighed heavily and raised his head from the vampire's shoulder. He looked at him, and said. "It hurt watching them like that, especially with no one up there to talk to. I felt so mad at Anya coz she had sex with another man and I was only dead for a month. I didn't realize that it wasn't her or Giles' fault until they had their memories back. The way she cried and ran to the apartment, the way she looked at the sky and chanted how sorry she was. The way she was holding the ring repeating that it was mine, not Giles'. I should've gone to comfort her, but between the hurt feelings and the anger I just couldn't."

He smiled bitterly at Spike. "I know. I was an ass. My job was to comfort the ones who needed me, but I didn't. I should've been there for her but . NO! there's no excuse for me. My feelings should have been put aside so I can do my job. I just couldn't be there." Xander whispered the last part.

Spike held Xander's hand to show him that he was there for him. "What about the others?"

"Tara broke up with Willow, she left the Summers' house and took Dawn with her thinking that Willow wasn't responsible enough to take care of her. Giles left and ."

"He what?" Spike exclaimed. That Watcher jerk! After he promised him to take care of her and be there for her and the others. That fucking git!

Xander cringed and raised his hands in yielding. "Don't freak on me, he came back. Willow turned Amy back into a girl again and I have to say that girl should have stayed a rat!"

"Wha.. who.. huh?" Spike asked.

"Amy should have stayed a rat." Xander repeated.

"You mean the rat that Red and Glenda was a chit."

"Oooh yah."

"How did she end up... wait, a buggered spell from Red, right."

"You got the spell right, but was Amy that 'buggered' the spell, she was a witch, and from what I saw her do with Wills she still is."

"And how did you guys meat her?"

"Oh the usual, her mother wanted to relive her teenager cheerleader career, took her kid's body, and Buff to the rescue. But we, or actually I, found out that not only was her mother wise of sorcery but her daughter was a witch too."

"So you went running to Rupes or the Slayer right?"

"Ooh noo!"

Spike looked interested, "I spell a story and embarrassment close behind, give!"

Xander retold the story of the Valentine's Day he and Cordy broke up, and how that ended up with every woman in Sunnydale madly in love with him.

Spike barely stopped laughing to start again. "Poor chits must've thought they 'ad a nightmare!"

"Hey!" Xander then got a evil glint in his eyes, "You know Drusilla was one of said 'poor chits'." That sobered Spike up, but only for a minute before he started roaring with laughter so hard that tears started streaming out of his eyes.

"What?" Xander asked, wanting to know what could cause his friend this much laughter. It took Spike several minutes to compose himself since every time he stopped he started off again.

"Okay. I'm waiting." Xander asked again when Spike finally stopped grinning.

"Well I just recalled what Angelus and Dru told me about that night. She was all protective of her 'Dark Kitten'. Angelus was so jealous much he actually planned on killing you."

Xander huffed, "Thanks for giving me another thing to hate Deadboy for."

Spike frowned. "It shouldn't, they're not the same. I told you that even before I got to really know Angel. Now that I do I'm even more sure. Angel would never treat me like that Angelus did."

"Yah I know, but give me my fun will ya."

Spike chuckled, "Sure, mate. Now clear this for me. You said the watcher left after. well the incident with the ex-demon chit, right?"

Xander cringed at the mention of Giles and Anya having sex even if Spike did say it. "Yes, but he came back."

"Fine my question is why?"

Xander sighed he wanted to avoid this. He like always Spike read him like an open book. He started telling him about Willow's increased of addiction to magic -no thanks to Amy- the car accident, that thankfully no one was hurt because of it, except Willow going to the hospital and that no one would have found out if Tara hadn't been listed in Willow's to call in case of accident file. The hospital treated Willow like a drug victim, to an unknown drug they couldn't detect. Tara reluctantly left Dawn alone at her place to go see Willow . She couldn't help it if she was in love with the redheaded witch. Xander told Spike that Dawn took that opportunity to call Giles and convinced him to come back; that they all needed him and that Willow was going crazy and that Anya had closed the shop and locked herself in their apartment. Giles was on the next trip to L.A.

Xander then stopped talking and rubbed his face. There was a moment of silence, that was only interrupted by Spike saying, "You need to talk to them," and Xander weakly nodding.

Now there was a comfortable silence they usually shared and that would be interrupted like always by Xander.

Xander turned with a smile at Spike. "Hey, I'm glad you worked things out with Angel."

Spike raised an eyebrow. "You were spying on us, mate."

Xander shrugged. "That's kinda my job actually."

"Sorry we didn't give you the perfect show."

"Eww, Angel naked!"

"Oh I don't know about you mate but he's a real looker if you get him out of his damn poofy clothes, and also a great lay.."

"Arghhh! My eyes, my ears, my delicate innocence!! The horror!" Xander mocked yelled and swooned. Spike caught him and they fell on the bed laughing.

"I dunno what to tell ya mate. But all I can say is that I'm really glad that my soul doesn't have a happiness clause right now."

Xander sat up and looked down at his friends happy sparkling eyes. "You would never hurt me."

~Part: 23~

"You sure you don't wanna stay at my place tonight?" Gunn asked for yet the third time that evening, "I mean last night you spent the night . and you know how great that ended up!" He leered as he circled Cordelia's waist with his arms.

Cordelia for the last five minutes, was trying to get her apartment key through the keyhole, but Gunn was really persistent. He hasn't stopped commenting on how the night should end.

~ well Duh he's a guy! ~

When she said 'let's celebrate', he got this idea that they'd have sex, while her idea of celebration was going to a posh restaurant that is strictly VIP. If not for Angel's connections, there was no way they could get in.

~ Finally! ~ The key slipped in the keyhole. Cordy gasped as she felt Gunn's lips graze her sensitive spot behind her ear. When he began sucking on it she pushed her back to his chest trying to get more contact. His hands wandered under her miniskirt and caused her to moan.

"So," Gunn whispered in her ear, "Can I crash at your place tonight?"

Cordelia began to nod when she remembered the reason to why she wanted to come home and not stay at Gunn's. She began weighing her options, and groaned because she knew which one she'd choose.

~ I *SO* got my priorities mixed ~

She reluctantly extracted herself from Gunn's grasp and turned to see him grinning, thinking that he won her over. Cordy smiled at her boyfriend, she got up to her toes and kissed him softly on his lips.

"Thanks for a great night, Gunn." Gunn's smile began to falter, "But ."

Gunn raised his hand in surrender, "I get it, no need to explain I'll be the understanding boyfriend." Cordelia smiled one of her brilliant smiles, kissed him again and said, "Thanks honey you're the best." They said their goodnights and she entered her apartment and closed the door.

"OK Xander, you'd better have something good!" she said with her hands on her hips.

"Nice hickey Cord." Cordelia shrieked and quickly turned around to see a wide grinning Xander. "You sure you don't wanna call Gunn back and finish."

Cordy just gaped at him for a while then gave him her world-renowned death look. "You were watching." It wasn't a question.

"Yep! What else do you think I do up there? I get easily bored you know."

"You don't watch when we..?"

Xander waved his hand. "Oh please! I got enough of that in high school."

Cordelia snorted, "Yah in your dreams maybe."

Xander chuckled, "I really missed you C!" He smiled warmly at her. She smiled back in return. It was becoming emotional. Cordelia began biting her nails, which Xander remembered her doing in high school when she was nervous.

"I never got to tell you." she stopped and looked into the eyes of her once boyfriend and willed him to understand. "Yah I know," He whispered, "Me too." They smiled at each other in mutual understanding.

Cordelia stood up straight and smoothed back her short hair, "So what did you want to talk about that was so important you wanted us to be alone?" she asked reverting to her confident self.

When a few seconds passed and there wasn't any answer, she looked up and noticed Xander staring at something to the left of her. She quickly looked in that direction but nothing was there. She frowned and looked back at the dark-haired boy who was now smiling and nodding?

"Oohh!" Realization sank in and Cordelia said, "You can see Dennis?"

Xander nodded and chuckled one last time then answered her, "Yah he's really funny, I like him."

"Really? That's SO great that you can hear and see him." Cordy's head snapped back at the direction where the phantom would be, "You two weren't talking about me were you?"

"Well now that you mention it ."

When her mouth opened to yell at him he retracted, "Nah, not to worry, you have a loyal ghost."

She nodded her head in assent, "So the thing you wanted to talk about?"

"Oh right. You're dieing." He said in a casual tone.

"What!" she took several steps back, "You didn't say anything about you being an Angel of Death!"

"Well, Duh! Maybe coz I'm not." Xander stepped towards her and said softly, "The visions are killing you, Cor. You should've told someone."

She snorted, "I don't know what you're talking about."

"Don't you?" he said as he headed towards her bedroom.

"Hey! A girl's room is sacred." She blocked his way but that didn't stop him as he went right through her. Once he was inside, he looked in the direction of the door where an angry Cordelia just came in. "Dennis, I know your mister loyal ghost and everything, but I know that you wouldn't want Cordy to get hurt ..."

" Don't tell him anything Dennis!" Cordelia interrupted with a snap and looked angrily at Xander. He heard her but kept his pleading eyes towards where, if Dennis were visible his eyes would be. Cordelia watched as Xander's eyes started to follow an invisible object across the room all the way to her bed. Her eyes widened. She understood what her invisible friend was about to do. She was about to say something when a large box was pulled from under the bed.

Cordelia took several steps forward and stood beside Xander who was gazing from her to the box in silence, his eyes willing her to look into the box. She inhaled a shaky breath and lowered her eyes. Dozens of pill bottles, from headache and sleeping pills to very strong pain relievers. She sighed and picked one up. The date was for two years ago. Two years, she spent more on these pills than her own clothes.

~ Well *almost* ~

She felt a warm hand placing itself on her shoulder, comforting and more importantly encouraging.

"You know Phantom Dennis' presence is kinda cold but he can't touch me like you can," she said absently.

Xander answered in a low voice, "Yah, that's coz he's a spirit that chose to stay because of a strong emotion. He can touch other stuff though, but not creatures with souls. Now me, I was sent back for a reason to guard; to aid in every way possible, even if it's only giving someone a hug."

Cordelia turned to look into her friends dark eyes, searching, "But I thought you were Spike's GG."

"Hey watch that!" He clipped her on the nose and she giggled. "I maybe his guide but I'm not just his guardian. Like I said, I'm there to help when someone wants me." He said solemnly, "I can be your guide too ... And me noticing that I'm still standing here means that you want it, right"

Cordelia turned and for a split second Xander was afraid, afraid that she'd let him go. He could still remember when Angel did that to him; it hurt. Xander didn't really like him,  ~ I wonder what Spike sees in him? ~ , but that hurt.

Xander had been OK alone for all that time, after he made his choice and left heaven, where he got to see Spike's past both human and vampire and then, afterwards, kept watch on his friends. He didn't even see Doyle again after he took him on a tour of 'Spike's Life and Unlife'. He said that for Xander to be the best guide he had to know the person he's guiding well. Xander had actually thought about reliving the strangely short experience of seeing his friend's pain all over again for a chance to have company, almost. But after actually talking to someone after all this time, he was really *scared* of being alone again.

For the guardian's relief he heard Cordelia sigh as she replaced the pill bottle and faintly whispering, "I was afraid."

"Of what?"

The ex-cheerleader sat on her bed and chewed on her nail. "Of them taking it away from me." She gazed at another ruined nail. "Wesley looked for a way to make the pain less, but there was no such luck. Then he started looking for a way to take away the visions. So I told him that there was no need that the pain was bearable, worth a nag or two and new clothes from time to time, but nothing to worry about."

"Why did you say that?"

"He was going to take them away from me!" she replied in fervor, "It changed me, Xander, made me a better person. I like my sight. I like to help people. I didn't have sex with Groo so I wouldn't loose it, for pete's sake!"

Xander began chuckling but sobered up when he saw the tears streaming out his friend's eyes. Faster than she could see, Cordelia found her herself in Xander's warm embrace.

"I don't want to be like I was before; nobody cared about me then." She sniffled.

"Oh, Cordy!" Xander pulled away a little but not enough to let go of his hold on her. "Everyone cared about you, sweetie. I even know this one guy who actually loved you enough to spend half his time hiding in closets!" he said in mock horror. She swatted at him but was softened by her thankful smile, "You loved it and you know it!"

"I did." he replied sincerely. Cordelia blinked and smiled even wider. "So mister intervention, how are you going to take them away?"

"I can't." he shrugged.

"Then what was all this about?" she questioned irritably.

"Let me explain." She waved her hand for him to do so. "No one, *no one*, can take them away unless you want them gone. I know that from fact and experience."

"You mean ."

"Yah Doyle. He trusted you to take care of the visions and you've lived up to that trust. Now I'm here to tell you that there is a chance to not only make the pain less but take it away completely." He made a dramatic stop.

"And .?" Cordelia asked tapping her foot.

~ heh still our Cordy ~

"There's a catch though." he warned.

Cordelia rolled her eyes. "Isn't there always. Now spill!"

"You have to become half demon." he said quickly as he and unconsciously made himself incorporeal.

Cordelia just blinked at him and nodded. "Ok," she said with a shrug.

~ okay maybe a little different than our Cordy ~

"Sure." She said when she noticed his surprised look. "I just have to tell the gang first, and then we're a go, 'k?"

~ wow grown up Cordy! I mean I knew she changed but. wow ~

"'K, great." They smiled at each other.

"So Xan?"

"Yah?"

"Dennis still here?"

"Yep."

"How about you work as our interpreter for a while?"

"Huh?"

"I'm out of cue cards."

It only took him a few seconds to decipher what she said. "Sure!"

******

"And you are sure this would not harm Cordelia in anyway?" Wesley asked Xander for the third time. Xander couldn't really blame the Fang Gang for worrying; they are Cordy's friends.

"Yes, Wes, everybody." Xander looked around at the people around the lobby. Gunn was right beside Cordelia holding her hand and hadn't said a word since they - him and Cordy - broke the news. Xander smiled seeing the way both Angel and Spike offered support to each other by just standing close together. Fred and Lorne were seated on the gray couch just like the first time. And Wesley was practically in his face. "Look I would never put Cordy in any danger. She refuses to part with the visions and it's this or convincing her."

They all turned their head as one to look at Cordelia only to get a shake from her head indicating that she refused to take that option.

Wesley nodded his head. "Then I see no problem; if you see this and the powers advise it." Cordelia looked at the others who nodded as well. She sighed and turned her eyes to look at her boyfriend who smiled at her and kissed her hand. "I wouldn't care if you become a half demon, sweetie. I love you for you." Cordelia smiled. "As long as there are no horns involved I'm A OK!" A "HEY!" was heard from an offended Lorne and several sets of eyes turned to Xander who shook his head.

"Ok Cord, you ready to go with your new guide?" Xander asked.

"Just a sec!" She got to her tiptoes and kissed Gunn soundly in the lips, "I love you too, honey." Then she took hold of Xander's hand and they disappeared.

The gang stood looking at the spot where the two had been, before one by one they left to do their thing awaiting Cordelia and Xander's return, leaving Spike and Angel standing together in the lobby.

Spike heard Angel sigh and saw him head into the office. He hesitated for a moment before following. Angel was standing in the middle of the office almost on the exact spot where he had the day before. He felt a couple of arms snake their way around his waist and a lean chest touch his back. He sighed again and leaned back on the strong chest.

"So what is all this soul retching sighing for?" asked the voice that Angel longed to never stop hearing again. When there was no answer, the long arms slipped a little so their owner could come to stand in front of him. The dark haired vampire looked into the clear blue eyes of his soon to be lover. He leaned down and kissed the sweet inviting lips. The kiss was long and sweet; thanks to them being of the undead and not needing to breath. It was Spike's turn to sigh as he let himself be drown into the kiss.

Angel reluctantly drew away, when he remembered his conversation with Wesley, and leaned his head down to rest against Spike's.

"I'm worried that I pushed Cordy to this." he said quietly.

"Why do you say that, luv'?"

"Well, it is my redemption and she is my seer."

"Oh, well the way *I* see it she wasn't pushed, I remember clearly you asking if she was sure, repeatedly. And from what Xan told me, not even the notorious PTB themselves can take it away from her against her will."

"I know but."

"No peaches, you don't." Spike pulled away to pace, ever the hyperactive one Angel's childe was. "You don't realize that there are people who are willing to help you. Or maybe you do but you're afraid that they'd get hurt and when they do you go all one-way on one of your guilt trips without realizing that all of them are bleedin' adults!" Spike stopped and came up to Angel. "They chose to do this gig for different reasons and helping you happens to just be one of them."

Angel lowered his head, "How come you have to be so perceptive?"

Spike's hand trailed over his face and whispered softly, "Let us help you Angel. You're not alone in this." He tilted his head and captured his sire's lips in a hungry kiss. "Let me help you, sire." he quietly begged. Angel willingly dove into the kiss and threaded his fingers into the gelled locks. He swiftly turned them around so that Spike was pressed against the desk. He started kissing his way around Spike's mouth, feeling the other vampire shiver and tilt his hips forward. A moan escaped from one of them but which one, Angel wasn't sure, and didn't really care except for the feel of his boy returning his affection. Angel's hand slipped down Spike's back before reaching the tempting curve of his buttocks. He groped and, as he heard Spike groaning, ground their pelvises together.

Spike's mouth left Angel's while he fumbled, trying to open the taller man's shirt. Once the fabric was parted, he started kissing the broad shoulders and nuzzled Angel's neck. He realized it was the exact spot where Darla marked Angel with the bite mark, claiming Angel as hers.

Breathing hard Angel begged, "Make me yours, Wil', as you let me make you mine again, please!"

Spike growled when he heard his sire plead and felt his game face slide into place. He began to lick over the spot, making Angel whimper and plead again. Angel gasped as he felt the pinpricks of Spike slipping his fangs gently into his neck. He held the back of the blonde's head and urged him to bite harder, making the mark permanent. The two vampires began to grind their erect cloth covered cocks harder together, nearing their peak. Angel could practically hear his childe urging him to taste his blood, and since Angel decided to never refuse his boy anything again, he happily complied. It was like an electric current flowing through them. They felt as though they were mentally connected as well as by their shared blood. Angel felt his orgasm crash over him like an unending wave, and it intensified tenfold at feel of Spike's pleasure in the blood as well. He probably would have fallen on him if the shorter vampire wasn't leaning on the desk support them.

They were breathing hard and smiled softly at each other, and soon they were kissing again but this time with less urgency. "How about we take this up to *our* room, hmm?" Angel said as he nuzzled the curling hairs on Spike's neck. "We can get out of these soggy pants and into. something more comfortable." Spike giggled when Angel licked his ear.

"Sure luv' we."

"Guys!! We're back! Spike?!" He was cut off by Xander's voice calling him from the hallway.

"Bloody hell! They're back, come on peaches!" Spike quickly secured his duster, left Angel's arms and was out the door to greet Xander before he could say a word. Angel slowly covered up with his own coat as well, and went to stand silently by the door of the office looking on at his friends greeting the returning two. Cordelia was in Gunn's arms in no time. Wesley, Lorne and Fred were asking them what happed, while Spike only stood there with his arm around Xander's shoulder.

~ Wes said that Xander was no threat to Spike and me. But why do I feel like he's pulling Spike away from me more each day? ~   Angel thought sadly standing there alone for a while more before joining the others, fear slowly overshadowing the joy he felt only moments before in the arms of the man who now was holding another.

~Part: 24~

“I'm sure that we're going to have a great time at Caritas. You see, I've always loved it but this time I just can't wait to get there, especially since it’s Xander's first time and I get to hear 'im sing. I've heard 'im sing before with the radio, you know, but this is different 'e's gonna sing live and do you think Lorne is going to make 'im choose from that magical cubical like me . . . ?”

Angel silently listened to his excited childe babbling non stop about going to Caritas so Lorne could read Xander's future. Both vampires were changing their clothes in Angel's room that Spike had moved into since the night he found out about his soul.

~ Heavens any minute now there's gonna be a naked Spike in my room and, again, I can't do anything about it! ~ Spike only approached Angel sexually that day Cordelia became half demon and the only time Angel could hold Spike now was when they slept ~ the nightmares have almost stopped now, if he'd only talk to me about it . . . but I’m not pushing him he has to choose ~

Lately, all the blonde was talking about was Xander. It seemed that nothing Angel ever did was making his childe happy as he was with the dark-haired soul.

He understood that Spike missed Xander like crazy especially with him dying and then coming back, but this was too much. He was not being selfish and he was absolutely ok about the friendship between the two. It was just that he felt like he was going to lose his boy; especially since that he just got him back. He knew Xander was not trying to steel his 'lover' but with Spike only talking about Xander he feels a little …… left out.

Spike held up a dark blue shirt. "Should I wear this? I mean, it was the one he pointed at in the store and he said it brings out my eyes and…."

"Wow, Spike. Take it easy, you're acting like a teenaged girl going out on her first date." Angel chuckled.

"Am not," Spike scoffed.

Angel raised an eyebrow before looking at the scattered clothes all over the bedroom floor. Spike rolled his eyes. "Well, maybe a little. But I'm just so happy, you know." Spike grinned at him holding the shirt to his chest.

Angel smiled softly, "I know."

"So, what do you think I should wear?"

Angel touched the shirt in Spike's hands. "This one."

Spike beamed at him. "The dark blue it is."

The brunette watched his childe happily changing his shirt, and a small smile played on his handsome face. ~ He's so happy, ~ he thought. ~ I've never seen him this happy since the days William and Angelus spent time together ~ why can't he let him have this moment of happiness, ~ I've always hurt him. ~ Angel changed his clothes mutely listening to the cheerful babble of the younger vampire.

******

Fred stood in front of her wardrobe staring at her clothes numbly. She wasn't that interested in going to Caritas like usual. Lately, she was feeling lonely because all that her boyfriend and best friend are interested in was Xander. Wesley couldn't get enough of asking the guardian guide about himself and Spike was spending all his time with him. Even Lorne wasn’t around much; he was always at Caritas teaching that new bartender what to do!

She didn't hate Xander; she didn't know him well enough to hate him. But the fact that he was taking all the attention from the people she loves and making them forget that she existed bothered her. He seemed like a nice guy- uh soul but…

"'Ello pet, are you finished?" Spike asked as he popped his head through the door.

"Spike!” She yelped turning to face him. "Don’t do that! What if I was still changing?"

"That's nothing that I haven't seen before, 'luv. "

Fred blushed. "Well, that's because some *pervert* sneaked in on me in the bathroom." she said glaring at the smirking vampire.

"And what a beautiful sight that was."

"Spike!" She giggled hitting him on his arm. He smiled at her, asking, "Aren't you finished yet?"

She shook her head and gave him a shrug. "I couldn't find a thing to wear." She looked at his clothes. "Oh you'll wear that? I love this blue shirt. You wore it that day you sang the boy band song."

Spike snorted at the reminder then grinned. "Yeah, this is the one Xan bought for me."

"So you've told me." she muttered then started going through her clothes. Spike stood next to her to help her. "So you- uh moved to Angel's room, right?" she asked him while going through her clothes.

Spike frowned and looked at her. "Yeah, been there a week. You didn't know?"

"No, I knew but you never told me." she said in a low voice.

Spike bit his lower lip guiltily. "Oh, Fred I ……"

"No, it . . . it's ok. I mean I understand you just got your friend back so you want to make up for all that time he wasn't here."

Spike regarded her narrowly. "Is this about Xander?"

She turned at him and shook her head. "N-no Spike, look I understand. You told me he was your first friend and I know that he meant a lot to you so when you lost him I-I wanted to be your best friend because I like you and I don't want you to be lonely again. I wanted to be a good best friend like Xander, but now that he's back I guess I'm not your Xander anymore." She lowered her head sadly.

Spike's eyes widened. "But you never were my Xander. You're my Fred. You've always been my Fred, did you think that you were a replacement for Xander?"

She shook her head. "I didn't ……." In a split second she was being held by Spike, who tightened his embrace. She tried to stem the gleaming tears in her eyes. "Oh pet I'm sorry. I didn't mean to ignore you like that or to make you feel this way. I love you so much. You’ve been there for me when I needed comfort; you held me while I cried." He looked down at her, "Which I would deny to have done if you tell anyone!" he warned and she giggled. "I'm sorry, pet, if I ever let ya feel left out. You know how much you mean to me don't ya?"

She nodded mutely and sank in his embrace. They stood like that for a while then parted looking at each other with sheepish grins. Spike was the one to break the silence. "You alright?”

"Yeah," she nodded.

“Decided what to wear yet?” At the shake of her head, he looked at her wardrobe again and picked a light purple top. He turned to her. "How about this one, you looked so pretty wearing it."

She smiled taking the clothes. "Thanks. I'll be down in a minute. Why don't you go and call Xander? "

"Tell you what? Why don’t you call 'im yourself?" Spike suggested.

"Me?" she exclaimed.

"Yes. Why not? He'll like that."

"Really?"

"Why wouldn't he? I'm sure he'll like to have you as a friend same as the rest of us."

"Well, I guess I’d like to be his friend too." She smiled before she called Xander's name. The dark-haired young soul appeared next to her with a sunshine smile on his face. "I’d like to be your friend too, Fred." He said.

Fred's smile couldn't be any bigger.

Spike and Xander left the young woman to change. They walked, or glided in Xander's case, down the stairs.

"I'm glad Lorne finally agreed about Caritas," Spike said.

"Well, you said he was making some changes in the club and wouldn’t let you in ‘til it's all done."

"Yeah, I know. Well Lorne’s has his moods but I’m sure I know you'll enjoy yourself."

"I hope so; I'm looking for a  pick-me-upper after my last visit to Sunnydale." Xander said still remembering the events of his visit to Sunnydale and the Scoobies.

*Flash Back*

~ OK Xander you were finally convinced – ordered – by your best vampire friend to look up your former best friend and her lover, father figure and once lover of *his* ex-demon ex-fiancé, not to forget your favorite little sister who single handedly broke a master vampire with a couple of well placed words. Yeah this is gonna be SO easy! ~ Xander grumbled from his look out up in the heavens. He closed his eyes and listened to the hearts of the Scoobies who were calling him, and chose which one he’d go to first. Suddenly he disappeared.

******

Xander looked around surprised ~ what is Dawn doing in a cemetery? ~ He then heard voices.

“Come back to us… come back to us Buffy. Come back to us Xander.” Several voices chanted while a lone person recited words in a strange language.

Xander approached the four women who surrounded his and Buffy’s grave. He froze as he saw Willows eyes turn black intending to complete the spell.

“STOP!”

As four pairs of eyes turned to him, a single word escaped their lips, “Xander.”

Willow’s eyes returned to normal as they began to fill with tears. “How? We didn’t finish the spell?”

“Xander.” Anya whispered, bewildered at the sight of her dead fiancé.

Xander began to vibrate with anger. “What do you think you were doing?!”

“Bringing you back… you and Buffy.” Dawn said cheerfully thinking that since Xander appeared Buffy would come soon after.

“Bringing us back? Where do you get off . . .?”

“We assumed that since you and Buffy were taken by mystical means that we…” Tara said before Xander cut her off.

“That you what? Instantly get the right to mess with life and death!” Xander shouted at Tara. “I though you knew better than that, Tara. Weren’t you against *resurrection* when Dawn wanted to bring back her mother? What changed now other than the reason of death?”

“W-Willow promised that…” she stuttered, shocked at Xander’s outburst and still not over the fact that he was standing in front of them even though they had just barely started the spell.

Xander shook his head reading between the lines. “She promised to stop with the magic didn’t she?” He didn’t need her to nod to know it was true; he watched what happened in those months he was away. How easily Willow manipulated them. “I bet she also said that the reason she was using too much magic was because she was taking up Buffy’s responsibilities and if she came back she wouldn’t do as much, right?”

“Xander, why are you being so mean? We brought you back. Now we can bring back Buffy too and…” Dawn’s happy musings were interrupted by Xander’s eruption.

“Brought me back! I chose to come back on my own a while ago to help a friend.” They looked back at him confused.

“Oh, you don’t know what friend I’m talking about… well let me give you a hint. He’s about this high, blond hair, saved your lives more times than I can count and you betrayed him without a second thought!”

“He let you die Xander!” Dawn yelled.

Xander looked directly into Dawns eyes before talking. “Why do you want to bring back Buffy so badly Dawn? Other than obvious one about her being your sister and you loved her.” He continued without letting her interrupt. “You know the neat thing about coming back to be Spike’s guardian guide?” he waved his hand stopping them from asking. “Long story… anyway the neat thing is that I got to see Spike’s past and his feelings during every experience he went through. And there was this particular one were Spike asked *you*, Dawnie, if you thought he was to blame for Buffy’s death. You didn’t answer then, not because you thought that, but because you always thought it was *your* fault. Except then, you found someone else to blame, didn’t you?”

Dawn tried to look naive but failed. “And so when I died, you finally let it out. You told him what you thought, practically broke his heart, and in turn found a way to take the weight off your own shoulders.” Dawn’s eyes were getting glassy. “But now since no one’s here to blame anymore, it’s back to being your fault and you wanted Buffy back to stop the pain, didn’t you? That’s the reason why you want her back!”

That was Dawn’s queue to begin crying and Xander’s eyes softened. “You know you didn’t need to blame anyone coz it wasn’t your fault. Buffy chose to jump to let you live. If you want someone to hold responsible for her death, you have Glory not you, not Buffy and certainly not Spike.” He said the last with a firm tone.

“Xander.” Xander looked to his left and saw Anya virtually gnawing her bottom lip away.

“Anya.” He whispered but didn’t move towards her. “I thought you of all people wouldn’t do this, especially to me.”

“But I couldn’t take it Xander, not being with you. Being SO alone.” she whimpered.

“Oh sweetie, I know you miss me. But you’re not alone, look around you. And I know for a fact that you have someone who likes you very much and I have a feeling that you return the sentiment.” The other three women looked at her in shock.

“But I can’t betray you Xan…”

“Ahn… you can’t betray me coz there’s nothing to betray, honey. I’m dead. Just coz I’m back doesn’t change that. I admit I was shocked and a bit jealous when I found out,” He smiled at her guilt filled face until Anya smiled back. “But, hey, if he makes you happy then it’s fine with me. I love you and I trust G-man to make you happy.”

Anya smiled widely at that. “Thank you Xander. I wouldn’t want to have my innards extracted because you called upon a male vengeance demon.” Xander smiled ~ I always wondered about that ~ he thought with wonder.

“G-man . . . Oh God, Giles and Anya!?” Willow cried out.

Xander turned his eyes towards his once best friend, “Why would you want to do that Will?” he repeated his earlier question.

“What? Bring you and Buffy back? Why would that be a bad thing?” Willow looked around. Anya shook her head, Tara’s eyes glossed over and she averted her face from her lover and Dawn was still crying.

“I think you know why. If everyone here had their minds clearer- Tara from pleasing you and Dawn and Anya from guilt they shouldn’t even have - before helping you they would’ve stopped you; you know that. That’s also the reason way you didn’t tell Giles about it.” Xander looked back at her sadly. “Willow if you did what you were about to do and it worked, you would’ve had to live with both me and Buffy hating you.”

Willow gasped at that. “Why?”

“Will, you’re the smart one. You’ve known me all of my life and you’ve been Buffy best friend since she got here. Where would you think we’d end up?” he asked he quietly.

Willow was quiet for a minute trying to understand what her friend was trying to say when it finally hit her. She looked up, her eyes widened as she grasped Tara’s hand, who was quickly by her side. “Oh God!” Willow whispered tightly holding on to Tara’s hand and staring at Xander. “Oh God, what did I almost do?”

“Willow, I think you should listen to Tara and Giles from now on and lay off the magic a bit.” Xander shook his head barely believing that his once best friend *actually* thought that he and Buffy would end up in hell. Willow nodded and sniffled before burying her face in her girlfriend’s shoulder, crying and begging her to forgive her for using her.

“Is she really happy? Is she with *her*?” Dawn’s soft voice reached Xander.

“Yes, Dawn.”

Dawn smiled sadly, “I’m glad . . .  I’m glad you stopped us before we did something wrong. You know we would never intend to hurt someone who we love and loves us back, right?” Willow raised her head and nodded, so did Anya and Tara.

“Oh, I guess that only means me and Buffy.”

“What are you talking about Xan?” Dawn asked.

“I’m talking about something I won’t forgive you all about,” he said angrily. “I’m talking about Spike who practically forced me to see you guys, ‘my friends’, that’s who.” He sighed shaking his head at their stunned looks. “Bye guys, don’t call me back.” With that last note he disappeared.

*End Flash Back*

"Are you ever going to tell me what happened?" Spike asked as they approached Angel's car; since Angel refused to let Spike walk there after what happened the last time ~ stupid poof ~

Xander’s only response was to shake his head.

******

Outside, Gunn and Cordelia took Gunn's truck, while the others settled in Angel's car. Wesley and Fred sat in the back, Angel took the driver seat and Spike was shotgun. The second Angel turned his head towards his lover, Xander just *popped* between them.

"Xander, you can fly, right?" Angel asked irritably.

"Yeah, so," Xander answered.

"Why aren’t you doing that?"

Xander pouted. “Don’t you like me anymore?”

“I never liked you before.” Angel muttered but everyone clearly heard him. Spike gave him a sharp look and started talking with Xander about which station they should listen to. They were arguing between listening to country music, Xander’s choice, or hard rock, Spike’s. Angel groaned.

“Angel, I can’t really see why you don’t want Xander to come with us?” Wesley asked.

Angel turned his head in shock to look at Wes ~ he knows why not! ~ His exclamation stopped when he saw his friend snickering next to Fred. Angel sighed turning back to the road ~ I miss the old Wes who *doesn’t* joke around. ~

In a few minutes, thankfully - to the other occupants of the car other than Xander or Spike, they reached their destination. Angel parked his car with Gunn’s truck doing the same right next to him. Together the group of seven entered the club.

“Wow,” Cordelia gasped. “Lorne really did some serious changes here.” They all nodded as they surveyed the place. Gone were the small tables outlining the stage, now there was an open area surrounding the stage clearly made up for dancing.

The stage itself was somewhat considerably larger, enough for a band to perform on it. The rest of the club was almost the same as it had always been. Though strangely it looked a bit bigger than it used to and for a good reason as the club was clearly filled.

The group found their way to the bar. From there, they could clearly see Lorne talking to a really short demon. Lorne waved at them indicating that they should get some drinks and he would be with them soon.

Spike shrugged and told the others to take their usual reserved table and that he and Angel would bring over their drinks. Xander, to Angel’s annoyance, decided to stick around with Spike. He turned to the bartender to give him their orders when there was a startled gasp from said bartender.

“Angel?”

“What are *you* doing here?” Angel asked the shock on his face matching the one on the bartender’s. Angel’s question brought the attention of both Spike and Xander.

“Oh my God!” “Bloody hell!” where said in unison.

“Oh God, Spike? And Xander? Hey kid I thought you died?”

Xander was still blinking in shock. It just occurred to him that he hadn’t seen this man in nearly two years. However, couldn’t help but say, “I’m not a kid!”

Angel rolled his eyes ~ I could argue with that. ~

“Willy? Is something wrong? These are my friends. Their drinks are on the house.” Lorne approached the four men.

“Amm, Lorne, do you know that you have Willy the Snitch as your bartender?” Xander asked the green empath.

“Ooh Willy has a nickname. How sweet!” Lorne smiled widely. “How did you get that one, Sugar?”

“Amm well…”

“He had demon bar in Sunnyhell and snitched on other demons.” Spike said bluntly. ~ This is all well and dandy but I want Xan to sing! ~ He mentally whined.

“Oh I knew that!” Lorne waved his hand, “I was SO lucky to find another bar owner who had experience with demons that would agree to work here. So did any of you rough him up for info?” Lorne looked excited.

“Well not exactly. Angel and Spike only threatened to *kill* me; the Slayer was the one who did the roughing up.” Willy rubbed his nose in remembrance, and then looked back at the three men especially at Xander. “Sorry to hear about . . . her being gone, by the way.” Xander nodded his head in thanks.

“Wait. Weren’t you dead too?” Willy asked.

Spike chuckled, putting his arm around Xander, clearly surprising Willy and really infuriating Angel. “Long story mate, I’m sure Red Eyes here will tell you about it. Now can we have our drinks?” Willy nodded still distracted by the two friends and by a growling Angel.

“Now you come on over here, Puppy, and chose yourself a song. Blue Eyes tells me you’ve got a lot of soul reaching to do.” Xander nodded apprehensively. Spike patted his back for reassurance and then followed Angel with the rest of the drinks.

Xander took a deep, unneeded breath and turned his attention to Lorne who had an understanding look on his face. “So where do I go to get those special magical lyrics?”

Lorne chuckled and slung his arm around Xander’s shoulders. “You don’t need ‘em, cutie. You’re pure soul. Just sing your heart’s desire.”

******

Xander stood nervously in front of Caritas' huge audience. He felt his lips shaking in an irritating way. He tried to stop them but they wouldn't. During his teenage years in high school, Xander hated performing on stage. He remembered Giles' advice to picture everyone naked, but it's a little difficult when most of your audience is strange looking demons!

He was aware of Lorne telling him to relax and hold the microphone. ~ Doesn't he know that I can't touch it?! ~ He turned his face to the green demon, who asked, "Should I play the music?"

Xander's answer was shaking teeth.

Fred whispered to Spike, "Is he alright? He looks like he's about to faint or something."

Spike sighed ~ boy will disappear if I don't do something. ~ He grimaced at Angel's snicker and got out of his seat.

Angel's snickers stopped the moment Spike stood. "Where are you going?" he called after the blond vampire.

"Going to help the boy out!" Spike answered as he went up to the stage.

"Why does he have to be the one helping him?" Angel grumbled.

"Oh c'mon Angel, they're close friends. They're like Antonio and Bassanio." Fred said wistfully.

"Who?" Gunn asked.

"Oh, those are characters from a Shakespeare play that Spike is reading to me."

"Uh, yes 'The Merchant of Venice'." Wesley said lovingly looking at his girlfriend. Fred smiled sweetly at him and kissed him softly on the lips.

Angel wasn't listening to any of this. He was too busy watching his lover claiming the stage. Spike smirked at Xander's wide eyes. "Having a bit of stage fright 'eh, mate?"

Xander grimaced. "S-spike, s-stop making f-fun of me!" He frowned, "What a-are you d-doing here?"

"Gonna sing with you, why else?" He answered like Xander was supposed to know that.

Suddenly all the shaking went away. "Thank God! What took you so long?"

Spike's chuckle stopped when he saw at the song lyrics in front of Xander. "Are you kiddin' me?"  He fanned the paper that had 'Show Me the Meaning of Being Lonely' lyrics written in it in front of Xander's face.

"Hey, it was good enough for you when you sang it!" Xander retorted.

"Xander, can't you see yourself? You're shaking like a scared deer; how the fuck can you sing a ballad? And I'm NOT singing this again!" He shoved the papers away. "You need a song that you don't need to be calm in. A song you can only shout in. Ya! Shouting doesn't need any talent."

"HEY! Wait . . . Oh no, you mean rock songs, right? You know I don't know any of the words to your Sex Pistols albums!" Xander objected.

"Then what are the lyrics on the screen for, idiot?" Spike asked in amazement. "Anyway don't worry, I have the right song for you."

At the table, Angel was watching the two discussing but couldn't hear everything over the voice of the patrons. ~ Now calm down. They're just friends. He's only going to sing with him. Nothing to be afraid of. ~ Angel thought trying to calm himself down.

The music started. Most of the people recognized it. It was the tune of Bon Jovi's song 'It's My Life'.

Spike started to sing,

//This ain’t a song for the broken-hearted//

While the music went, Spike turned to Xander. "Come on; give it your best shot."

Xander's shaking voice went,

//N-no silent prayer f-for the faith-departed//

Xander cursed at how weak and shaking his voice was. It was almost like a whisper. Spike said in a supportive tone, "Come on Xan, remember when we used to sing it in the car? It’s the same thing, come on."

Both of them got closer to the microphone, and sang but Xander's voice hid behind Spike's.

//I ain't gonna be just a face in the crowd
You're gonna hear my voice
When I shout it out loud//

Xander felt the enthusiasm filling him and confidence washed over him and he shouted so his voice would be heard along with Spike’s.

//It's my life
It's now or never
I ain't gonna live forever
I just want to live while I'm alive

It's my life

My heart is like an open highway
Like Frankie said
I did it my way
I just wanna live while I'm alive
It' my life//

“He thinks his voice is so good that he needs to shout?” Angel asked looking directly at Xander.

“Angel, stop with the jealousy ok! Xander can sing better than you can. Hell, even Lindsey could sing better than you and he was a bad guy!” Cordelia retorted.

“He doesn’t!” Angel protested which landed on silent ears as Cordelia dragged Gunn to dance with her and Fred and Wesley were standing up to the music.

//This is for the ones who stood their ground
For Tommy and Gina who never backed down
Tomorrow’s getting harder make no mistake
Luck ain’t even lucky
Got to make your own breaks//

No one was sitting on their seats; they were either singing along with the chorus or dancing. Well, everyone except for Angel.

//It's my life
It's now or never
I ain't gonna live forever
I just want to live while I'm alive

It's my life

My heart is like an open highway
Like Frankie said
I did it my way
I just wanna live while I'm alive
‘Cause It' my life//

Spike and Xander were singing into the microphone which Spike held. They were so into the song they were dancing and jumping all over the stage.

//Better stand tall when they're calling you out
Don't bend, don’t break, baby, don't back down//

They now had their arms around each other and were calling out to the crowd to sing louder with them. Angel had to admit they made a striking look up there. His boy looked like he was born on the stage to sing and that punk look was really helping. He also just noticed that Xander had a leather jacket on and dark blue jeans, the same clothes he had on the night he died and every time he appeared ~ huh? I guess he can’t change his clothes. Well his taste seemed to have improved with Spike’s influence. ~ He thought absent mindedly.

//It's my life
And it's now or never
‘Cause I ain't gonna live forever
I just want to live while I'm alive

It's my life
My heart is like an open highway
Like Frankie said
I did it my way
I just wanna live while I'm alive
It's my life//

When the song ended everyone started clapping and whistling, except for Angel who kept muttering, "People don't know the difference between talent and crap nowadays."

Spike was watching the crowd with a big smile on his face. As soon as he turned to face Xander, warm lips were brushed against his cool ones. The screams of the crowd were heard even more and he didn't miss the gasps of his friends, but he closed his eyes to feel those warm soft lips of the young soul.

Angel stood violently from his seat, causing it to fall down. His eyes flashing yellow and he growled, "Mine." He heard Cordelia's 'uh oh' but didn't give a damn. That fucking bastard was kissing what's his, touching him with his dirty lips, feeling him. How *dare* he?

Lorne groaned, “Give me something strong, Snitchy.”

Willy flinched at the new nickname. “Anything in particular, boss?”

“Just something strong and fast working. I can’t see my club getting trashed *again* while I’m sober.” he said as Willy gave him a glass which he downed right away cringing at the strong kick. Willy only paid his new boss little attention as he watched the  two men still kissing on stage ~ great! Get out of the business for a while and you lose all the great dish ~ shaking his head and wondering what other interesting news he missed.

When Xander ended the kiss, Spike opened his eyes and looked confused at the chocolate brown ones. "What did you do that for?" he whispered.

Xander smirked. "Oh Spike my old pal, you don't get kissed by your friend and never return it back."

"Kissed? What?"

Xander chuckled. "Don't tell me you don't remember? That night when you got stupidly drunk and mistook me for Angelus? You kissed me that night." he explained to Spike who seemed to remember. The vamp suddenly frowned. "But you were asleep when I kissed you? I'm sure you were."

"Yeah, I was. I didn't know about it then but remember what I said about seeing your life? I meant before and after my death . . .  all of it."

Spike looked at the crowd then turned to Xander with a smirk. "Well then, why don't we give those people what they want?"

As soon as he said it, he attached his lips to Xander's and kissed him deeply. Angel's yellow eyes changed into hurt brown. He stared at his childe kissing Xander with all he had. He watched the way Xander's hand moved to Spike's waist while the other cupped the back of the blond head, pulling him closer. He watched Spike's hands holding Xander tight as if he was afraid he'd disappear.

He knew it. Wesley was wrong, and this kiss was the proof. This wasn't just any kiss. It was passionate. That's why Spike wanted things slow, he wasn't sure of his feelings to his own sire. His feelings were for Xander, and once again he didn't sense it until it was too late. He should have known; from the moment Xander appeared, Spike spent every other second with him. Angel was aware of the others eyes fixed on him. Their stares were burning him and he wished he could scream or rip someone's throat.

The two ended the kiss, and Angel felt his heart drop when he saw the smile Spike gave Xander. This was too much for him to handle. He couldn't just stand there and watch. He needed to get away. He stormed outside Caritas.

Spike felt that something was wrong. It was the bond between him and Angel. His eyes started searching throughout the place, when he noticed Angel leaving. Xander saw the look on his friend's eyes and asked, "What's wrong?"

Spike muttered, "Shit!" He jumped out off the stage and followed his sire, leaving Xander watching him from behind, confused.

Outside Caritas, Angel was walking away furious when he heard his childe calling him. He didn't stop until Spike was right in front of him. "Angel, wait a minute . . ."

Spike stopped dead at Angel's grim face. The only time he got that look was on Angelus' face whenever he did something terribly wrong, and he knew how bad the consequences were. ~ Better choose my words carefully ~ he thought. "What's wrong with you? Why did you run off like your bleedin' coat tails were on fire?" ~ Great choice of words, Spike! ~ He sarcastically cursed himself.

Angel chuckled quietly and shook his head, "You're asking me?"

Spike didn't miss the bitter amusement in the taller vampire's tone. He knew Angel was holding his temper in check and that he had better concentrate on not making him lose it. He took a deep breath. "Angel, listen to me. Nothing that happened in there should cause you to be angry, ok?"

Angel didn't respond at all. His face didn't hold any expression, almost as if he wasn't listening to the words Spike was saying. Spike hated this; it would be much better if Angel were angry, better than that death look on his face. He knew how obsessive Angelus was of what was his. And there was no doubt that Angel shared that same quality.

He tried to explain. "Look, what I mean is . . . the thing that happened there between me and Xander wasn't in anyway…" He trailed off when Angel's features didn't change. "Bugger!" he cursed. "Look you poof, that kiss didn't mean anything, alright? It was just a friendly kiss, it didn't…"

"Shut up!"  Angel cut him off coolly. His eyes narrowed in a dangerous way.

Spike swallowed and looked apprehensively at Angel, who spoke grisly. "Don't explain it as a friendly kiss, because we both know that it wasn't."

Spike huffed. "Yes *it* was. What do you think it meant?"

"From what I saw it meant that you care about this *person* deeply." Angel answered quietly.

Spike looked annoyed. ~ Oh God, he's takin' it way too seriously. I really don't want to go through with this. ~ He gave a tired sigh. “Look you poofter, I won't lie. Yes, I care about the boy…"

"So what, Spike?" Angel cut him off. "Is that your choice? To be with a kid who's barely twenty-one and *not* your sire?" He said in disbelief. He couldn't believe Spike just confessed that he cared about Xander so easily. It's like he didn't give a damn about his feelings.

"Oh, he'll be twenty-one, in a week or two that is." Spike said in a sarcastic tone.

"Spike!" Angel roared, "This is not what…"

"I know it's not!" Spike roared back. "What do you want me to say? I'm not in the mood to play along with this sodden’ farce. How could you distrust me like this? It was *just* a friendly kiss."

"You wanna know about friendly kisses? I'll tell you about them. A friendly kiss is when you kiss your friend's cheek; a friendly kiss is when … oh for God's sake! Men don’t kiss each other with friendly kisses. They barely hug!"

Spike closed his eyes tiredly. How did things go so wrong? Why do they always go wrong when he finally gets what he wants? "Angel look, it wasn't suppose to go that way…"

"But it did, and it was a *hell* of a kiss, if you ask me. It was passionate and both of you clearly enjoyed it.”

"I enjoyed it, yes, but it meant nothing more to me than…"

"How can it mean nothing to you when you enjoyed it?" Angel questioned him, exasperated. "God Spike, how could you? You said you lo . . .  And the things we did … what did they mean to you? Did they mean nothing? Is that why you wanted things slow, to check your feelings towards Xander? I would be more understanding if we weren't lovers but we *are* and you dared to kiss him in front of me!"

Spike shuddered when Angel's eyes turned yellow. He could read them easier than the dark ones. There was fire, jealousy and hurt.

~ I am so dense! ~ Spike raised his guilty eyes to Angel, "Angel, I …." Angel waved him off. "Don't bother." He tried to walk away but Spike stood in front of him, "Angel let’s …" Angel tried the other way but Spike blocked it. He was about to shout in the younger vampire's face but settled with a growl and went back inside Caritas, leaving Spike to stand alone in the dark.

******

Xander was standing by the bar chatting with Willy. ~ Who would’ve thought? ~ Until Lorne came up to him and handed him a drink. Xander looked at him and crossed his arms waiting for the singing demon to get it. It seemed that he did. “Oops! Sorry Puppy doll, force of habit.” Xander shared a look with Willy who gave him an understanding look about the nickname.

“So you want to hear my revelations here or in my office?”

Xander looked around at the mass of demons and at Willy who pretended to be really engrossed in polishing a glass. “I’m not that keen on whatever you have to tell me being the talk of the underworld, so your office it is.” Xander snickered. He was sure he saw Willy pout at the lost opportunity.
 

“Take a seat.” Lorne said after he closed the door to his office, and then stopped as he was about to pore himself a drink. “You can sit down, right?”

Xander gave him a small smile, “Well I can fake it so well you won’t notice.” And he did just that.

Lorne took the seat in front of Xander who was on the couch and placed his drink on the table beside him.

“Ok. How does this go, without going through the shouting match you and Spike had, to get to the point?”

Lorne chuckled. “You saw that, did you?”

“Oh yeah and a lot more.” Xander joined in the laughter.

Lorne suddenly stopped laughing. “But it wasn’t all ‘fun and roses’ was it?”

Xander at that moment looked a lot more grown up than his age. “I knew what I was signing up to do, Lorne.”

The green demon nodded. “Okay I’ll give you that, Xander. But you don’t know everything, do you?”

“That’s what I’m here for isn’t it?” Xander said bluntly. He then frowned. “Spike was worried that I made the wrong choice about choosing him . . .”

“Do you think that?”

“God, Spike was right when he called you a shrink.” Xander replied exasperated. “And no, simple as that. I would never, ever regret the decision to help my friend.” He gave Lorne a pointed look. “Now can I get my reading please?”

Lorne nodded. “What I saw, what I read is what you sought. Immortality for you is what you chose.”

~ Oh . . . huh? ~ Xander’s frown deepened.

“Okay. Bear with me here, green boy. I was never good at charades.”

Lorne looked at him from his wine glass. “What do you want with Spike?”

“Whoa, what are you with the changing subjects. You already know I’m here to help Spike.”

“Oh well pardon me but all I saw out there is you building on another bridge for Angel and Spike to cross.”

“What are you talking about!?” Xander stood up.

Lorne finished his drink and placed the glass back on the table. “What I’m talking about *is* a couple of kisses that meant a lot for a lot of parties. I saw into your aura, babe. You can’t lie to me.” Lorne signaled that as the end of their ‘session’.

Xander exited Lorne’s office and flew numbly towards the audience tables. He cleared his mind of what Lorne said to him about kissing Spike and concentrated on the reading.

~ Yah coz in no way am I planning on destroying Spike’s relationship with Angel. He’s happy and that’s all that matters. I don’t know what Greenie the psychic demon was on about! Now to decipher what he said about reading my aura. Okay, so what he practically said is that I am immortal! ~

He was going to live forever or, in his case, stay in this form and never change forever. He had this feeling of something squeezing his heart painfully somewhat like he used have when he was alive. The feeling you got when you were scared or sad. Why did those PTB leave his human feelings? Why didn’t they take his sense of worth and just let him focus on others? Did they want him to suffer? Why? He wasn’t a bad guy when he was human, damn it.

He took a shaky breath and ran his hand through his hair. ~ Stop feeling sorry for yourself! ~ His brain yelled at him. This is right. What ever those PTB dudes did to him wasn’t important. What’s important was his job.

He glanced up when he noticed Spike who was walking in to Caritas. He called his name immediately and rushed towards him. Spike looked up at him as he approached. The sorrowful look on the vamp’s face made his unbeaten heart crawl with guilt. He should have never kissed Spike. Lorne was right. It was stupid of him, then again he *is* stupid. And kissing Spike in front of his lover was an absolute stupidity. Kissing Spike in front of his lover on a stage in front of everyone was major *fucking* stupid and dumb; he had actually broke his own record. It was like he was declaring to everyone there ‘He’s  mine, folks. Got It.’ ~ Stupid, stupid, stupid. ~ He chanted to himself. ~ SO glad I’m dead or like Spike used to say, Angel would tear me a new one. ~

He opened his mouth to ask if he was ok but Spike asked him first. “What did Lorne say?”

Xander shook his head. “No, tell me about what happened with Angel first?”

“Answer me, Xander!” Spike growled.

It was obvious that Spike didn’t want to talk about Angel, he was clearly upset. But Xander knew the answer he had would upset Spike even more. He had to lie, make up a quick one and tell it to him now until everything between Spike and Angel calmed dawn. Then he would tell him the truth. ~ Or better yet, never tell him at all! ~

“Don’t you *dare* lie to me, Xan.”

Xander snapped from his thoughts at Spike’s warning tone. “Huh? What? Who said I’d lie to you?” He said nervously.

“Oh please mate. I can read you like an open book. I might  not be able to hear your heart beat any longer, but I still know when a nervous Xander is about to lie because he has something not so quite pleasant to tell me, so spill!”

Xander’s mouth quivered a little before he forced it shut. Spike noticed that and asked in the most gentle voice he had. “What did ‘e say, pet?”

The concerned look Spike gave him and the gentile tone was too much for Xander. He had to control his emotions.

“He …he said… I… uh…” What is wrong with him? Why can’t he just say it and just get it over with?

Spike knew the moment Xander said what he had to say he’ll end up crying, and Xander was trying so hard to control himself. “Will you stay like this forever?” He chose to ask him knowing that it would be a lot easier on the soul.

When Spike saw Xander’s slow nod he closed his eyes tightly and tried to control his emotions. First Angel is miserable because of him now his best friend was going to end up existing alone for all eternity all because they chose him. ~ Fuck I just have to mess up everybody’s life! ~

Xander snapped out of his misery when he sensed where Spike’s thoughts were leading him and started babbling fast. “Hey it’s not that big of deal really?” He put his hands on Spike’s shoulders. “Spike, please don’t do this to yourself. You will not feel bad because *I* chose this. I was the one who agreed, remember? I wanted this? Spike look at me, please!”

Spike raised his eyes to meet Xander’s face and they were full of tears. Xander smiled at him. “I’m happy. OK? I’m truly happy, because now I can see you, talk to you, help you. And I will never be alone, you know why, because I’ll do my best to keep you alive. And one day when our friends die, we’ll have their children to love and take care of. And when they die, we’ll also have their children and so on. You see? We’ll never be alone.”

Spike gave Xander a small smile too and drew him into his arms. Xander hugged Spike in return and was surprised that his urge to cry was almost all gone. It seemed that this talk let out some steam and comforted him a little, ~ Wow! I am good! ~

Spike pushed Xander gently and looked him in the eye. There was still some sadness there, but he knew better than to expect one talk to make everything better. Xander was done for now talking about him and now he had to find out how bad he missed up Spike and Angel’s relationship.

“How’s everything with Angel?”

Spike sighed. “He’s takin’ it too fuckin’ seriously.”

“Well, the guy just saw his lover making out with another guy.” Xander said. “I’d give him some slack.”

Spike snorted. “It was just a kiss! He’s takin’ it like a stupid bint would. I mean we’re vampires and *he* kissed lots of chits before and did I complain? No.”

Xander smiled sadly. “But did it hurt?”

Spike looked at Xander’s face for a moment remembering all the times he saw Angelus kissing Darla or Dru or leaving him for a new obsession of his, and every time it hurt a little more to think that Angelus would need someone else other then him. Then came visions of the time he stood over the roof and watched Angel kiss Buffy with a passion he never experienced before ~ ‘til now that is ~ then Angelus came back and he wasn’t interested in a crippled Spike. He had *his* Dru to fuck and the Slayer to obsess about.

Then a vision of Angel’s face outside Caritas was in front of him. The deep brown eyes that showed all the hurt and anger, Spike wondered if that was how his eyes looked in the past. ~ Bloody fukin’ poetic justice at its worse ~ the problem is, he didn’t want it.  He hurt Angel, *he* hurt his sire! Aside from the whole Gem of Amarra incident, this was a whole new ball game.

He sighed again. “I know I did the wrong thing…”

“No Spike, it’s my fault. I kissed you first and being the fool I am I did it in front of everyone.” Xander glanced at Angel who was seated at the bar alone, staring silently at his glass of whiskey. “Look, why don’t I go talk to him?”

Spike’s eyes widened. “You! Why?”

Xander did his duh-face with both eyebrows up. “Well duh! Isn’t that my job? Giving comfort and making things better!”

Spike looked uncertain. “I don’t think it’s such a good idea.”

“Let me just try, OK?” He gave his friend a reassuring pat. “Hey, it’s gonna be fine, alright?” Spike gave him a smile in return until Xander disappeared.

Spike stared at Angel waiting for Xander to pop up to talk to him ~ although I have no idea if Angel would want that ~ when a green hand rested on his shoulder.

Angel was holding the glass of whisky and staring at the liquid but his mind was somewhere else. He wasn’t aware of the head that appeared next to his, peering down at the drink as well.

“Is there a bug in there?”

Angel jerked his head whilst standing up quickly, ready to rip the throat out of whatever creature dared attack him while he was this angry. It took only a few seconds for him to recognize the person in front of him. Xander raised his hands in self-defense. “Hey, no need for the fangs Deadboy. It’s only me, Xander.”

Angel’s golden look changed from the 'who-the-hell-wants-to-interrupt-my-moment-of-brooding-by-attaking-me' into 'oh-it’s-the-bastard-who-kissed-my-lover' angry look. Xander wasn’t sure which one scared him the most. Watching Angel’s features changing into hatred, Xander said, “And I see that didn’t make you any happier.” He gestured to the chair Angel was setting in. “Have a seat.”

“What do you want?” Angel scowled returning to his human features.

“I wanna talk to you.” Xander said seriously.

“I don’t want to talk to anyone right now, especially you.” Angel said setting back in his chair and motioning to a cowering Willy to refill his glass.

Xander mouthed ‘Ooookay’ and crossed his legs setting in the air. It looked very stupid and not a little attention getting, so he lowered his form inches above the stool next to Angel’s and pretended to set in it. He regarded the older brunette sitting next to him with a pondering gaze. Angel looked depressed and utterly devastated at that moment, which strangely made Xander feel really awful.

He didn’t know where to start but he knew saying sorry was pointless. Sighing, Xander looked at his hands saying. “Look, I can see that you’re upset about the kiss, but you shouldn’t let it bother you this much. Spike wants you, he loves you.” He said the last part softly turning his face to Angel.

Angel spat in disgust. “Ha, he loves me but he spends most of his time with someone else and then he shoves his tongue in that person’s throat. Tell me why this isn’t making any sense to me?”

“It’s the truth.” Xander said defensively, “You’re the only one in his eyes Angel. The one he loves. Why would he choose me when he has you?”

“My thoughts exactly.” Angel said dryly.

“Hey!” Xander raised his hands in an offended gesture. “I can say trash about myself whenever I want, but you’re not allowed to!”

Not seeming to hear what Xander said, Angel turned an angry face to the younger brunette. “He kissed you right after you kissed him. He kissed you back!” Angel aimed a finger at Xander. “Now that kiss was passionate, loving, and don’t try to deny it!” he said, more than a little drunk.

“Maybe, but…”

“Maybe?” Angel growled. “There’s no ‘maybe’ about it, either it was or not.”

“Angel, it’s not a big deal …” Xander was trying to explain before getting cut off again.

“What do you mean not a big deal? Are you saying it meant nothing?”

“Yes, it meant nothing.” Xander said in a tired voice, just wanting Angel to shut up before he’d explode.

Angel seemed to take the answer in the wrong way and angrily stood up. “You little bastard, are you saying that Spike means nothing? Is that what you think of him? A big nothing?”

Now Xander couldn’t take the accusations anymore. “I never said that Spike meant nothing and I’ll never say it because I have *feelings* for him!” Xander spat out with out thinking.

Angel’s eyes widened as he stared at Xander with a stunned expression on his face. Xander bit his lip regretting his words, and looked away. “Stupid, stupid, stupid.” He muttered to himself. ~ Now the night gets even more interesting ~

Angel gaped at him and slowly sat back down. “Y-you … you have feelings for Spike?”

Xander took a shaky breath before looking at Angel and slowly nodding.

Angel’s mouth gaped like a fish. “How? When? How …?”

Xander gave a bitter laugh. “Like I know! All I know is after I returned from the dead, whenever I see him I have these feelings that I can barely control. I w-want to kiss him and hold him and not in a friendly way.” Xander looked at Angel's forgotten drink and wished if he could take a drink now because he sure needed something. “I know I shouldn’t and it’s wrong, not just because he’s with you. It’s because I know it would *never* work out.” He whispered the last part sadly.

Angel didn’t know what to say. He just couldn’t believe that Xander just said *that* to him. He finally spoke. “Why?”

“Because I’ll never make him happy. I could never satisfy him. I’m not even a person anymore, just Xander’s soul that wants desperately to share its twisted feelings with this wonderful person.” He sighed, “I can’t give him what he wants. I mean sure I can touch him and yah there’s the kissing but the rest? I can’t sit on a chair or . . . or lie on a bed I’ll just end up going through the floor if we try anything …. And *no one* wants that!”

Angel was torn between feeling angry because Xander was talking about having sex with his lover or sympathy for the lad. He shuddered at the thought of being in Xander’s place, having all these feelings about someone and never having him.

Xander went on. “I can’t get him a weapon if he was fighting someone. Hell, I couldn’t even rescue him when the vamps kidnapped him that night, and I’m supposed to help people! I guess my only worth is in talking. Ironic, huh? I mean that’s what I was best at when I was human.” Xander noticed he had been talking about his feelings about this situation and totally forgot what he was here for. He took a deep breath and gave Angel one of his goofy grins.

“Anyway, that’s what I chose and I can’t complain now. So change of subject?” He said desperately. Angel was still giving him the pity look, which Xander never ever wanted to see on the dark vampire’s face. “Oh, I love that you care so much about me, Deadboy!” Xander looked sarcastically touched.

Angel’s sorry look changed immediately into disgust. “Oh, like I give a fucking damn about your feelings!” Xander gave him a dopey grin ~ that’s the Deadboy we know and love! ~

“So,” Xander began. “All that what I wanted to say is, I do care about Spike a little more out of the friendship area. *But* I’ll try my best to control my feelings from now on coz Spike only wants me as a friend and I don’t want to lose him as that. If I really care about him then I want him to be with someone who he can love and be loved back in return.” He focused his gaze on Angel. “And most importantly, I repeat, he *is* not in love with me.”

Angel stared at Xander’s face for a moment before watching him turn his eyes towards the stage. He followed his gaze to see Spike and Lorne singing on the stage while Fred was standing near them and clapping happily. That was when he heard Xander’s soft voice, “Angel?”

“Yeah?”

“Spike never knows about this, okay?” He heard the firm spoken words and had one answer to it. “Of course!”

Now on the stage, Spike was pulling Fred to join him and Lorne. He totally ignored her protests when he dragged her to the stage. Angel smiled softly at the thin girl who stood in front of the microphone, blushing red. Lorne was encouraging her while the blond, he and Xander had feelings for, just stood smirking.

Suddenly, he started chuckling. Xander turned to look at him puzzled. Angel looked at him with a cheeky smile. “I just realized,” he said. “We always fight over blondes.” He continued chuckling.

Xander grinned, realizing he was talking about the whole Buffy thing. “*And* you’re the one who always gets them.”

“And you always end up their best friend.” Angel said seriously.

They gave each other small smiles before turning their eyes to the three friends singing on the stage.
 

******

Later that night, Spike was feeling a bit hungry so he headed into Lorne’s office where he knew his friend kept the freshest blood for him. He pulled out a blood bag out of the miniature fridge in the small kitchenette, poured the blood into a large mug and placed it in the microwave.

“You want some?” he asked Angel. He had sensed him coming in without turning around. Angel closed the door. He then pulled out another bag of blood, did to it the same as Spike did before and set the microwave for three minutes.

The two vampires watched their food turning in the machine. There was a minute left when Spike whispered, “Sorry.”

Angel turned Spike around and forced the younger vampire to meet his eyes. Spike stared back with false bravado. “I love you,” was all Angel said. Spike’s eyes instantly softened and he latched on to Angel’s lips, showing him what a truly passionate kiss meant. The microwave beeped and the two slowly separated, causing both of them to breathe hard.

Angel absently opened the microwave and the smell of blood filled the room. Spike’s eyes turned yellow for a split second. He pulled Angel back in for another kiss and pushed off both their coats.

“Wait!” Spike stopped kissing while Angel groaned. “So all is okay? How . . .?” Angel smiled as his finger lightly traced the blonde vampire’s sharp cheekbone. “Well, let’s only say that you’ve got one hell of a friend.” Spike’s smile was so blinding that Angel thought the only way to rescue his eyes was by kissing Spike. ~ Never will Spike find out about Xander! ~ He thought sternly.

Spike’s hands began opening Angel’s shirt while his lips kissed every newly bared section of flesh. Angel was panting hard but he needed to know what Spike wanted to say with this. His hands stopped Spike’s from completely undoing his pants and held them tight.

“What is this Spike?” Angel asked. “You don’t have to do this. I’m not Angelus. You don’t have to do this to get my approval.”

Spike looked at Angel quietly for a second. “Thanks for the heads up, ‘luv.” He smiled and softly kissed Angel on the lips. “But I want to do this coz I love ya, and I wanna show ya how much.” He looked down at the big bulge in Angel’s pants and then raised his eyes to look at him. “Now if you don’t mind, I had something I wanted to take care of.”

“Hey, by all means, please do,” Angel raised his hands. “I always say don’t start something if you don’t intend to finish it.”

Spike lift an eyebrow. “Huh, you said something funny.” He shook his head. “Knew I was ‘aving a good influence on ya.”

Angel pouted. “You’re losing track.”

“Ooh and the pouting too.” Spike smiled and roughly kissed Angel’s lips, electing a moan when he pulled back. “Now, where was I?” He leered looking down.

~~~*~~~

Two hours later as a very tired Lorne entered his office; he was instantly assaulted by the strong smell of sex. He groaned and looked at his sofa. “Not again!!” he sniffled pitifully. “It’s like people flaunt their sex life in front of me.”

He poked his head out of the office. “Willy! Would you tell Carl to call the cleaning service in the morning and tell then to clean my office . . . he’ll know what I mean.” He entered the office again. “I’m seriously reconsidering with the large couch.” He shook his head. He then noticed the now cold mugs of blood. That caused him to smirk then laugh. “Finally! I knew they were too happy when they left . . . well good for them. Maybe now I’ll stop getting frustrated sexual signals at the hotel…. If only Fred and Wesley would just do it already.”

~Part: 25~

Angel awoke to the sensation of someone kissing him. Spike was lying on top of him as the smaller vampire's lips softly teasing his open. A cool tongue snaked in and coaxed his into a well-memorized dance. The younger man's hand drifted over his legs and waist and their legs tangling together under the covers.

Angel's arms went around the narrow hips and held the other vampire even closer. He smiled against Spike's lips, "Thanks for the wonderful wake up, Wil."

The younger vampire raised his head from were it was hiding against Angel's neck. He pulled back a little and smiled. "I got bored watching you sleep. And you were there looking all 'Sleeping Beauty' like, and I thought about the best way to wake one, kisses! Many kisses all over. But you kinda stopped my quest." Spike pouted.

Angel chucked and raised his hands in mock surrender, "Be it from me to stop an expedition from reaching its goal."

Spike nodded his head firmly. "I'm really liking this version you." he stated and went back to kissing Angel's body.

Spike knelt, straddling his sire. He traced the muscles in Angel's chest with almost imperceptible touches, eliciting a prolonged shiver from his quiescent partner underneath. Angel's dark eyes finally focused, after glazing over with lust, on the blond.

Spike was wrapped up in the feel of bare skin on bare skin as he pressed himself against Angel, taking the dark haired vampire's mouth in a deep probing kiss. The blond stroked his tongue against Angel's still human teeth but was disappointed when his actions failed to bring out the vampire side.

Feeling Spike beginning to withdraw, Angel clutched the slighter vampire to him in a stern hug, returning the kiss with a fervor, cutting his lips on Spike's now visible fangs as his tongue sought entrance back into the blonde's mouth. Slowly he realized that the lithe body draped across him was shaking in what appeared to be laughter.

Angel frowned and slowly pulled back from the chuckling mouth. "Okay. Let's get this straight. You wake me up short of taking advantage of my sleeping state and get me all 'hot and bothered' as you say, then you laugh at me? Now tell me there isn't something wrong with that, Wil'?"

Spike bit his full bottom lip with his now human teeth, in an attempt to stop snickering but broke off in a full blown laugh when he heard Angel's words.

Angel pouted which set off Spike even more. The dark vampire got up with a huff and began putting on his clothes for the day. Spike was trying to get up from the bed but was losing the battle quickly.

Angel was attempting to put on his shirt but gave up turning to the cackling blond with a fierce glare. "If you don't tell me what is so funny I'll withhold sex for a week." he warned.

~Ok I'm lying. I barely had sex for years I'm not giving it up now that I've got it again! ~

That threat sobered Spike up immediately, "WehadsexinLorne'sofficelastnight." he said in a rush.

Angel, who was now fluent in the language of Spike and had survived three years with the Scoobies, namely Willow babble, only took a few seconds to decipher what his irate childe said.

"Oh God." he groaned, {not in a good way}, that caused Spike to smirk. "I hope that wasn't coz of my performance last night." Angel glared at him.

"But that wasn't the reason I was laughing." Spike smirked wider, as if that was possible.

Angel was afraid, truly afraid but he had to ask, "Then what is?"

"You're a cheapskate."

"And?" Angel realized what he said, "I *am* not! And what does money have to do with it?"

"Lorne's gonna make you pay for the cleaning bill!"

******

The woman stood in the middle of the large office fidgeting. She was about to leave when a hidden door in the left wall opened inwardly to reveal a dark haired woman. The suited woman paid her no attention as she took a seat behind her big ivory desk.

Finally she looked up from contemplating a file she held. "Now, you wanted to see me?" The still standing woman swallowed a lump in her throat. "Yes, Miss. Morgan. It's about my contract."

Lilah smiled a friendly smile, yet her eyes showed anything but. "Your contract is incomplete. You're still bound to our fine establishment."

"But I tried the best I can . . ."

"Well the best you can wasn't enough now was it." Lilah switched a monitor behind her. When the scene she wanted appeared, she pressed stop.

"Now will you look at that," she said pointing. "Angel is as happy as can be with his new boy toy." The screen showed the two vampires necking behind the reception desk.

"You were supposed to get me the vampire!" she snapped.

The woman cringed. "I summoned the demons and they tried to capture the vampire you requested but he was strong."

Lilah smirked. "Well at least the boy with him died, right?"

The young woman's eyes glistened. ~ It wasn't my intention to harm a human, much less kill him ~ she thought sadly.

Lilah continued as if she hadn't seen the sad look upon the other woman's face. "Well we didn't mind really." she chuckled causing the woman to look at her with revulsion. "But as you can see that didn't last long." she said pressing the play button.

On the screen Xander could be seen laughing with Spike about something, but since there was no sound they didn't know about what.

"How. . .?" the young woman sputtered.

Lilah shrugged. "Who knows . . . we both know it's possible . . . hell we at Wolfram and Hart have done it before ourselves."

"What matters is that he was the one who informed Angel about the second attempt to capture the vampire."

The woman tried to plead her case. "It wasn't my fault that the vampires I recruited wanted revenge for their own and didn't bring him to you as I commanded them!"

Lilah gave her a stern look. "You should've done your homework. Next time don't trust vampires."

She was about to say something but Lilah interrupted, "Enough. I've given you too much of my time as it is. I've got someone else to do the job you failed to complete. You will stay indebt to us, to Wolfram and Hart, until you fulfill the bonds of your contract."

"Someone else?"

"Oh yes. And I'm sure he will do a better job than you. He will surely deliver us William the Bloody."

"And what about me?" she asked frantically not wanting to lose the only chance she had to be free from the clutches of Wolfram and Hart.

A knock was heard on the door to Lilah's office. "Well if you can find a way to get him before our new 'employee' . . ." she left the sentence hanging, knowing her meaning was clear.

The woman nodded, looked at the door then back at Lilah before she suddenly disappeared. Lilah smiled evilly ~ what's more healthy than a small competition ~

She checked her make up in a little mirror she got our of her leather suitcase, making sure to powder her nose she then called out, "Come in!"

Two days later.

Wesley looked at his papers with interest. Yesterday he had a very important phone call that he didn't expected. He barely noticed Angel who came in acting cheerful. "Mission accomplished. No demon threatens young women in the alley." He frowned, "or was that young men?"

Wesley gestured his pen at Angel's direction, without raising his head. "That reminds me, Gunn is a bit upset that you went galloping off on your own."

"Why would he be?" Angel said as he dropped bodily in the chair across to Wesley's desk. "It wasn't a very hard mission. It's was something a child could do, um or not. Did you notice how Cordy's visions have been getting much easier these days? Do you think it has something to do with her being a half-demon?"

Wesley didn't pay much attention to what Angel was saying. He was more interested in his files. Angel looked at the papers the young Englishman was reading, when a thought struck him. "Hey, what happened to your research about the demons that attacked Spike and Xander? Found anything yet or did you just forget?" he asked with a mock-glare.

Wesley looked at Angel, distracted. "Huh? Oh, yes . I mean, no I didn't forget!" He sighed. "That was my concern for the last three months, but I couldn't find any demon with Spike and Xander's descriptions. So I'm giving it up for a while until I have more information."

Angel nodded at the papers in Wesley's hands, asking. "And what are those papers for?"

Wesley shifted uncomfortably in his seat. "Oh those are . well, I was working on this for while back but it only caught my attention again when I received a very significant phone call, yesterday." He was so nervous that he missed Angel looking skeptically at the ceiling.

"You may not like this Angel but . Angel, what's the matter?" he asked with worry as he finally noticed Angel's strange glare at the ceiling.

"Spike's with someone in our bedroom." Angel said quietly, standing up.

Wesley blinked. "So? He and Fred are always spending time together, you know that." Angel shook his head his eyes narrowing. "It's not Fred. Not her voice . . . it's *someone* I can't sense!" Suddenly, Angel disappeared, running up the stairs taking two steps at a time, leaving a very confused Wesley gaping behind his desk.

******

Spike jerked back when the door burst open, revealing a very aggravated Angel. The older vampire found his lover sitting on the bed with Xander. He gave the younger brunette a cold stare. Xander just blinked at him innocently. Spike smiled, relieved that it was just Angel. "Peaches, you scared the fuck out of me. Thought we were bein' attacked, I did."

Angel didn't take his icy look off Xander as he asked. "What is he doing here?"

Spike understood the tone Angel used and realized exactly what his sire was thinking. He felt his unbeating heart start to twist. "We were just talking, Angel," he said irritated.

Angel's cold look didn't leave Xander. The soul looked at him uncomfortably. He knew that Angel was still angry. Here he was with Spike spending time, alone, together after the whole Caritas incident. Not to mention him telling Angel about his fuzzy woozy feelings towards his lover. He turned to Spike, smiling. "I think I better go."

Spike nodded mutely, watching his friend disappear. Smiling with satisfaction, Angel approached his lover. Spike jerked away from the hand that rested on his cheek. "So that's it?" He spat angrily. "You're going to boot Xander whenever he's alone with me coz you're assuming we're going to snog?"

Angel didn't say a word.

"You don't trust me, do you?" Spike lashed out, hurt and anger flashing simultaneously in his eyes.

Angel remained silent.

Spike turned his back to Angel unable to look into his eyes; afraid to find accusation and mistrust in them. "If you can't trust me then we ." He gasped when he felt Angel sniffling his neck and kissing his way to his ear. "Wha .?" He breathed when Angel licked the spot behind his ear.

"S .stop!" Spike stepped away, looking angrily at Angel. "You're not gonna get you're way with me just because you wanna shag me!"

Angel raised an eyebrow and gave a sexy smirk as he walked slowly towards his fuming lover. "I mean it!" Spike warned, but he lost ground the moment Angel held him and kissed him deeply on the lips, calling on their blood bond. The older vampire threw the blond to bed and jumped on top of him.

******

After several long hours, Spike woke up to find his head on the broad chest of his lover. He looked up to see Angel smiling down at him. Spike couldn't help but smile back, which caused Angel to lean down and place a soft kiss on his lips. That didn't satisfy Spike, so he raised himself up to give his sire a deep kiss, Angel deepened the kiss even more and the two kept on kissing for several minutes.

That lasted until Spike remembered what happened hours ago. He pulled himself away from the kiss and Angel growled from the loss. He looked at Spike with frustration and the blond looked at him seriously. "Answer me honesty, do you trust me with Xander?" he asked in low voice.

Angel looked at him but didn't answer. Spike's face was filled with conflicting emotions. He put a hard look. "Well, that answers my question, ta." Heatedly, he got off the bed. He quickly put on his clothes and stormed out of the room, without even buttoning his shirt, leaving Angel lying nude in the bed staring at the ceiling.

He sighed.

~ I trust you, Will. It's Xander that I don't trust. ~

******

Cordelia entered the kitchen where Spike was sitting, drinking his blood absentmindedly. She went to the large fridge and opened it. She didn't even give a second glance to the bags of blood alongside the orange juice. When she heard the suffering sigh that escaped Spike's lips, she gave up her search for a snack. She looked at him, asking. "What is it, Blondie?"

"It's Angel." He scoffed. "He doesn't give me and Xan any time alone. We were just bloody talking. Why is 'e acting like this?"

"You're right. Why is he acting like this?" Cordelia put a finger on her chin and pretended to think. "Oh, oh, I know maybe because you were in a lock lip with XANDER!" She screeched at him.

Spike couldn't help but shout back. "Oh, 'e bloody should get over it by now!"

Cordelia nodded fast. "You're right, it's been *two whole* days, Angel should get over it during that *very* long time." She said in a sarcastic tone.

"I know! So stop bloody patronizing me." Spike groaned. "I just can't 'elp wanting 'im to get over it."

"And I know Angel can't help from wishing it never happened."

Spike snorted. "Why can't those two start to act like bloody adults and get along already?"

"Oh, the boyfriend/ best friend war is an institution thing. Trust me. I still remember how Harmony ditched *me* because Xander was my boyfriend." Cordelia shuddered at the remembrance of her awful high school years.

~ Okay not all of them were bad but I can name a few! ~

"Well, I don't think that Xan will 'ditch' me and I don't expect 'im and Angel to be chums. I just want them to get along a little, that's all." Spike said earnestly.

"I hear ya, bro." She said with a sigh and patted his shoulder.

******

Fred was sitting at the front desk, surfing the net on her computer. She heard footsteps indicating someone entering the hotel. She looked up to see a middle aged man walking in with a blonde woman holding his hand, followed by a brunette young girl and another blonde woman. She smiled at them. "Hi, welcome to Angel Investigations. How may we help you?"

Her eyes caught the redhead that came in last and immediately realized who these people were. Her friendly face changed into a scowl, "Why are you here?"

Giles frowned at the change in the young woman's attitude. Nevertheless he didn't allow himself to forget his manners. "Hello, I'm Rupert Giles and this is ."

"I know who you are," Fred interrupted.

"Oh," said Giles. "Then I suppose you know why we're here?"

Fred glared. "I will never let you near Spike. You're not hurting him again."

Willow jumped in. "You don't understand. We just ."

She stopped talking when she spotted Spike and Cordelia coming out of the kitchen. Spike was joking with Cordy until his eyes fell on the Scoobies. He stopped immediately, looking at them emotionlessly.

Cordelia glowered. "What do *you* want?"

Dawn ignored Cordelia and walked towards Spike. They looked at each other for a moment. Dawn hesitated before she raised her hand so she could touch his arm but he moved away before she could. He needed to get away, needed to smoke, to do something, anything away from here, from *them*.

He walked as fast as he could, avoiding even a glance at the Scoobies as he found his way outside the hotel. He ignored the Scoobies' shouts for him to stop.

Angel, who sensed his lover's panic, rose from their bed, put on his clothes as fast as he could and raced downstairs. "What is going on here?" He growled and his eyes flashed yellow at the sight of the Scoobies. "What are you doing here?!"

Giles looked at the vampire and before he could say anything, Wesley and Gunn, who heard the shouts, came out from Wes' office. "What the hell is happening here?" Gunn snarled as he hurried next to Cordelia, ready to take on anything threatening his girl and his friends.

On the other hand, Wesley looked at their visitors with astonishment. "Mr. Giles, what are you doing here? I don't recall you saying anything about coming over on the phone."

Angel turned angry eyes at Wesley. "You were talking to *him* on the phone behind our backs?"

Wesley sighed. "That's what I was trying to tell you this morning. I told you that you may not like it but in my defense Angel, it was very important."

"I don't care!" Angel yelled. "You were talking to one of *them*!"

"It was about Spike ." Giles tried to explain, before he was cut off by Angel's growl. "You are not allowed to speak his name!"

Wesley knew that touching Angel on the arm at this time was suicidal at best, but he had to stop Angel before he knocked Giles' head off his shoulders. "It was about Spike's soul. We were trying to find out how he got his soul or if it was always there. I think it is best that we know especially for Spike's welfare."

Angel seemed to relax at his friend's touch and words and he nodded understanding. "So, you only came here because you found out Spike had a soul, even then . . . you're such hypocrites."

Willow walked closer to Angel, looking very sad and insecure like the Willow Angel remembered in high school. "Angel, we came here to apologize to Spike. We treated him badly and he didn't deserve it. Can you tell us where he went?"

Cordelia jumped in. "Oh like we're gonna tell you where is Spike so you'll hurt him even more. As if! He was in really bad shape when you abounded him and it took us a long time to return him to his old self, except now he's a lot cooler."

Willow looked sadly at the ground. Fred on the other hand looked at Angel and said. "I think we better tell them where Spike is."

"What?" Cordelia exclaimed while Angel looked at her in disbelief.

Fred's eyes didn't leave Angel's. "It's for Spike. He needs to hear what they have to say since he still cares about them even after all they did to him."

The Scoobies lowered their heads with shame and a teary eyed Dawn murmured, "I wanna tell him how sorry I am. I want things to be better between us."

Fred didn't pay attention to her as she spoke to Angel. "If you care about Spike you have to let them talk to him."

Angel nodded agreeing. "I'd do anything for Spike."

Giles' eyes narrowed as he noticed the way Angel talked about Spike with such caring. Fred turned to the Scoobies. "When Spike is down he always talks to me or Xander in his or my room which obviously he isn't, so I bet he's with Lorne at Caritas."

"What's Caritas? And who's Lorne?" Giles asked curious.

"Caritas is a demon bar. It's also a sanctuary." Wesley explained.

"And Lorne is the one who runs Caritas, and he's also one of Spike's closest friends," Fred added.

Giles was taking back by Wes' explanation. "You allow demons to meet like that?" He missed the hurt in Anya's eyes.

"Not all demons are bad," Gunn stated.

Cordelia concurred. "Look at Angel and Spike not to mention moi!"

Willow's eyes got wide and she was about to say something like 'I knew it' but Cordy warned her. "Don't even think about it, Willow!"

"So, let's go to this club Spike's at," Dawn said, wanting so much to apologize to Spike, she wanted to see him as soon as possible.

"Let's go." Angel said.

******

"So these are all nice demons?" Dawn asked in a whisper as they entered Caritas, while the rest of the Scoobies gaped at a demon singing on stage. Cordelia gave her a hard look then got an evil gleam in her eyes, "Oh nooo ... They're pretty deadly." She smirked and Giles was frightened to note that it was quite identical to Spike's. "Well maybe not all." The ex-cheerleader said as Lorne approached them obviously having heard what she said if the look on his face meant anything.   "I can be quite deadly if I wish to, Princess." he said spreading a harsh look on the Scoobies, remembering what he read in Spike's aura.

Giles coughed and removed his glasses for their hourly ritual. "I assume you are Lorne, am I right?"

"You're right on the money, Watcher."

Giles flinched at the name that was spoken with such severity. He didn't expect this kind of treatment from the demon wearing flashy clothes; from what Wesley told him about Lorne he was rather peaceful. Before anyone could speak the red-eyed demon turned to look at Dawn.

"Well aren't you a pretty little sparkling ball!"

The Scoobies gasped while Dawn cringed and hid behind Tara and Giles who had a spell ready on their lips.

"That wouldn't do any good. Caritas is protected from both demon and human violence. What you're about to do is obviously violent to my well dressed well being." Lorne smirked. Angel wondered if Spike was giving free lessons on how they can perfect his smirk. He suddenly looked at Fred probingly. She returned his look with a blink and a smile.

"How...?" Dawn whispered.

Giles turned to Wesley and said accusingly, "You said he read auras, nothing about him being a seer!!"

Wesley raised his eyebrows and shrugged, "I don't see how..."

"Don't worry, Kido. *I* don't want to go back to my dimension... I'm *very* happy here." The Scoobies visibly relaxed.

"Lorne? Where's Spike?" Angel asked trying to get them back to the topic at hand. Lorne looked at the dark vampire and his eyes softened when they caught his worried gaze. He sighed, "Well, Angel cakes, funny thing is Blue eyes wasn't in the mood to release stress via pummeling nasties so he came here to let out his sorrows."   Cordelia placed her hand on Lorne's arm. "He's going to sing? Again?" she asked softly. "Are you sure you can handle it?" she inquired with a worried tone in her voice. She could still remember how painful Lorne's last reading of Spike was. She couldn't help but feel concern for the demon who practically took her under his wing, so to speak, and taught her how to handle the visions and contemplate the vital details of those visions.

The green seer smiled at the young women. "Don't worry your pretty little head, Princess. It's not a reading."

Fred let out a breath she hadn't realized she was holding since Cordelia asked that question. She apologetically let go of the death grip she had on Wesley's hand. Wes gave her a reassuring smile while he was secretly holding back a yelp of pain.

~ Heavens, Fred is strong! ~ he thought rubbing at his bruised hand.

The Scoobies, who didn't understand the exchange, passed curious looks between each other. Willow was silently chosen to ask the question they all were speculating about, "Um . . . Spike is going to sing?"

******

"A demon karaoke bar?" Anya said astonished. "That's amazing. Why didn't they have any in my time?" Anya pouted. Giles patted her on her back comfortingly and wished at the same time she wouldn't reminiscence about her past.

"You said something about Spike singing here before?" Giles asked Cordelia.

"Yeah, it gave Lorne one hell of a headache. Mind you his voice wasn't that bad, hell it was far from it. It's that Lorne felt what Spike felt and well he couldn't handle it."

"Hey!!" Lorne interjected. "I can handle it fine, Hon. Let's see you take a load of a hundred years of grief and guilt and see how you handle it. . . I got a glimpse of a world ending once and handled it just fine. See, the world's still here."

Cordelia raised her hands in mock respect. "I meant no disrespect, oh great Yoda."

Angel was scanning the crowd and concentrating on his blood link with his childe in order to find him when he caught that word Cordelia used.

"Hey what does that mean . . . Yoda?" Angel asked the people around him and they only gaped at him in surprise. "I would ask Spike but I'm afraid he'd laugh at me." That signaled a storm of laughter from the group. Gunn was laughing so hard he had to hold on to Angel's shoulder for support.

"Yo man. I seriously need to give you the Pop Culture 101. How you survived this long, bro, I will never know."

Before Angel could ask him what he meant, the lights dimmed and Lorne escorted them to their table. The song started and Angel immediately turned his eyes to the stage; he never missed a chance to hear William sing. He wondered what Spike was going to sing about this time. He was sure that it would concern his feelings about the Scoobies arrival but he was still curious what was his childe was going to reveal.

//Wish I was too dead to cry
My self-affliction fades
Stones to throw at my creator
Masochists to which I cater
You don't need to bother;
I don't need to be
I'll keep slipping farther
But once I hold on,
I won't let go 'til it bleeds//

Angel savored the feel of Spike's voice. He wished he had Lorne's ability to read Spike. He looked sideways at Lorne and was surprised that the green demon was watching him. Realization dawned on him. He did have a way to read Spike; their blood bond. He concentrated and easily flowed into the bond thanks to their recent blood exchange. He almost reached full connection when he suddenly gasped.

//Wish I was too dead to care
If indeed I cared at all
Never had a voice to protest
So you fed me shit to digest
I wish I had a reason;
my flaws are open season
For this, I gave up trying
One good turn deserves my dying

You don't need to bother;
I don't need to be
I'll keep slipping farther
But once I hold on,
I won't let go 'til it bleeds//

Slowly, Angel realized what the song was about. It wasn't just the Scoobies he was singing about. Spike was also singing about him, his sire. He now fully opened their blood bond; needing desperately to know what was troubling his lover. Angel felt his unbeating heart twist; not only at the sharp hitting words but at the feelings he's getting behind them. In that moment Angel realized if he went through this much anguish, experiencing what Spike was feeling, he didn't want to know how his friend could to do this all the time. Angel wondered how much Lorne would see if he switched on his reading abilities right then.

//Wish I'd died instead of lived
A zombie hides my face
Shell forgotten
with its memories
Diaries left
with cryptic entries//

Spike had his eyes closed. He let the words slip out of his mouth while his mind was troubled with questions that needed answers. ~ What are *they* doing here? ~ He'd had enough to worry about, but for them to come and make every feeling he tried to bury resurface was almost unbearable. ~ I don't need this now. not when this thing with Angel.~ Spike wondered if Angel would turn into the shadow of Angelus. Would he let his jealousy control him and never trust Spike again? Would he turn to be a madly possessive demon like his evil counterpart was? Spike still remembered, against his better judgment, how Angelus reacted each time he went hunting on his own. And the song continued.

//And you don't need to bother;
I don't need to be
I'll keep slipping farther
But once I hold on,
I won't let go 'til it bleeds//

Angel felt century's old guilt re-emerge. He remembered how he used to punish William for everything. Beating him each time he disobeyed him and slipped away from their hunting party for prey on his own. Angelus thought that by punishing young William, the boy would obey him. So he used any means possible from beating him to a blood pulp to draining him into unconsciousness. In his own warped up mind, he was protecting William and keeping him for himself. But that all only served to make William more rebellious and caused him to turn into Spike. He also avoided his sire and chose to find comfort in the arms of Drusilla.

Needless to say, Angelus was furious. He noticed how his childer were getting closer and closer each passing day. An idea popped into Angelus' twisted, jealous mind. No matter how infatuated Dru was with her Little Prince she would always come back to Daddy with a snap of his fingers. Thus he took Dru away from 'Spike', as he called himself, and used her against him and combined that with the beatings.

In Angelus' mind he was forcing his boy to stay by his side and perhaps make Wil love him and suffer as he was from the 'unaccustomed' feelings he had for his childe.

//You don't need to bother;
I don't need to be
I'll keep slipping farther
But once I hold on:
I'll never live down my deceit//

In Spike's mind, Angelus was only using him for his own sick pleasure, be it through pain absorbed lessons of discipline or even from raping him. He knew that Angel would never treat him that way. Angel loved him. And Spike loved him as well. But was trust from the man he loved too much to ask? He now regretted what he and Xander did even if it meant nothing. He only hoped that Angel would take him back and forgive him for what he had done.

Angel was shocked. He had always took it for granted that Spike loved him. He couldn't stand the thought that he had caused his lover this much anguish.

~ Well that will be rectified right now! ~

The song ended with a round of clapping from everyone. The Scoobies had tears in their eyes and clapped harder as if somehow this could make everything better. Spike descended the stage after the applause stopped. No one interrupted his path, a lot of people knew him at the bar, not only did they fear him but they respected him as well. Spike glanced at the Scoobies and he lowered his eyes as he turned towards the back door.

Giles never thought that he could feel such guilt as much as he did at that moment. He didn't envy Angel for his burden. He caught the girls' eyes and they stood as one to follow Spike. It was time to set things right.

Angel stepped in their way, holding them back with his large form and backed up with his friends.

"Angel ." Giles started, only to be interrupted by Angel's growl.

"I will not allow you to harm him again!" The Fang Gang nodded their heads, agreeing with their boss.

Giles was about to explain when Anya, who never left his side, whispered something in his ear. He frowned then nodded, stepping a side to reveal Dawn who was standing behind him.

"Angel. please let us talk with Spike. We aren't going to give excuses for what we did to him because we don't have any. We were mean and only wanted to put the blame on someone. but that is not an excuse! I know. we know that and we want to apologies, please. Even if he doesn't except it. the least we can do is try." Dawn whispered and turned her pleading eyes towards them.

Angel reluctantly let them through. "I'm doing this for Spike. After you say what you want, you leave *my*city and mine alone," he said in a low voice only meant for Giles' ears.

The large group reached the back door and exited to find themselves in the alley. They looked around but saw nothing but fog. Willow took a step towards it but drew back with a chill in her body. Tara frowned and approached the barely lingering smoke. She raised her hand and waved it from side to side in the air. A blue light shone then disappeared in a millisecond of time. Tara turned and looked at Giles who had his brows knit together in a deep thought. He nodded to her. She turned to look at the L.A. group who were just short of exploding wanting to know what was happening.

She looked at Angel. "Someone teleported from here," she said as calm as she could master.

"What are you saying?" Angel asked.

"Just that, Angel. *Someone* used magic and as far as I can tell and from W-Willow's reaction, it was dark magic."   "What about Spike?" Fred inquired frantically.

"I don't know. there isn't any way to determine that he was taken." Tara shook her head.

"Well. I hate to differ, actually I don't, but I think I have a way to make sure."

Lorne led them all into his office in the back of the bar. In the office on the far side corner from the door was a medium sized monitor with a bunch of equipment around it.

Angel looked at it in wonder. "I never saw this here before."

Lorne looked at him strangely and smirked. "Maybe coz you never looked beyond my couch?"

Angel's eyes widened. He looked around to see if anyone understood what Lorne meant. Beside Fred, who was giving him a very appreciative stare, no one seemed the wiser. They were all looking at the screen as Lorne rewound the tape.

"There!" Gunn pointed.   On the screen stood Spike in the alley blowing grey smoke out of his mouth. Suddenly he threw his cigarette on the ground and stomped it out. He slowly turned as if looking expectedly at someone. Out of the camera's blind side approached a man. Only his back was seen as he was facing Spike. He sported a long sleeved plain brown shirt with black trousers.

The Scoobies and The Fang Gang squinted their eyes as if they could get a better look at the strange man. Spike is talking to the man but they can't see the man's face; his back still to the camera. The man waved his hand in Spike's direction and Spike froze. The mysterious man placed his hand on Spike's shoulder. Spike looked alarmed and then in a flare the two disappeared in a cloud of smoke.

~Part: 26~

At the hotel.

"What are we doing here!? We should be out there looking for him!!" a distressed Fred yelled at the people assembling around her.

Wesley held his girlfriend in his arms. "Fred, where would we look? Lorne is out there right now with his contacts trying to find out what happened. The only thing we can do is wait," he whispered the last part softly, wishing that there was something he could research in one of his books.

Fred looked around with pleading eyes. "We have to do somethin'. . . he. . . he could be hurt and alone and." She didn't complete the sentence since she was too busy crying on the former Watcher's shoulder.

The Scoobies looked at the grief-stricken young woman with sadness in their eyes. At least Spike found someone who cared about him after what they.

"They care about him," Dawn whispered, voicing all their thoughts. She watched as Cordelia and Gunn were trying to comfort Fred while they were obviously worried themselves.

"He's not coming back with us, is he?" Anya stated the obvious as usual, yet the words felt bitter in her mouth as she uttered them. She knew she had no right to even consider that as she was one of the soul reasons why Spike left in the first place.

"He's loved here," Tara said softy holding Willow's hand and looking into her tear filled eyes.

"*We* loved him!" Dawn said exasperatedly. She caught Willow's eyes and she lowered her head. "So we made a mistake . . . a big one . . . but it's fixable, right? We can fix it . . . we can care about him . . . love him even more than they . . ." Dawn's pleading words were cut short by a crash from the closed office.

"Not more than them," Giles said in a steely tone as Angel exited the office, cursing loudly. Strangely, it was Cordelia who was by his side. "What did they say?!" she asked frantically.

Angel shook his head, suddenly feeling very tired, and sat down heavily on the couch. "They know nothing," he said rubbing his hands roughly over his face.

"Great!" Cordelia said annoyed. "Just like Bleach-boy to talk to strangers and get himself kidnapped without leaving a trace. Leaving us here worrying our heads off!"

Gunn hugged her from behind. "We'll get him back, Delia."

She raised her head to look into his eyes, her own eyes shining from unshed tears. "Really?"

"Sure! We're the Fang Gang, remember? He's our second fang." He smiled lovingly and kissed her softly before releasing her.

The lobby was eerily quiet with everyone lost in their own thoughts.

"Xander!!"

They all jumped at the sudden exclamation. As one, they turned to look at Fred who was practically jumping.

"Xander can find Spike. th-they're connected!"

"No!" Angel growled, "We don't need him," he muttered stubbornly remembering the kiss with a sulk.

Fred's excited look turned to anger. "You would endanger Spike jus' coz of some stupid jealousy of yours!"

Angel cringed and looked down. He felt two inches tall in front of his glaring friend. Feeling equally stupid risking his lover's life - or unlife as his childe's case might be- because of a matter he intended on handling later.

~ Way'ta go protégé of mine! ~ Cordelia smiled proudly.

Fred nodded sternly and looked back around for any more argument. When faced with none she called out, "Xander!"

"Finally!! It took you long enough!" The brunette soul said exasperatedly. All of a sudden, there was an arm attached to his neck holding him off the ground.

"Where is he!?" Angel growled out through razor sharp fangs.

Xander didn't look intimidated, "You can't hurt me Dead-boy," he sneered as he slipped out of Angel's grip, leaving the vampire with nothing but air.

"Would you two stop this show of dead male testosterone?" Cordelia looked angrily from one man to the other. Only Queen C had the power to put an end to the two over inflated egos. Accordingly, the still glaring men stepped away from each other.

Cordelia nodded, satisfied and turned to Xander. "Who took Spike?"

"I dunno." Xander shook his head. When he saw everyone open their mouths to ask he quickly explained, "I saw the whole thing but I don't know who that man was. there was this dark energy around him blocking me from seeing or even hearing his voice." His voice wavered. "Spike sensed something off about him. that I could tell. But from what I got he didn't know who he was."

Everyone stood in silence contemplating what Xander had said. It was obvious to all, from what he said, that who ever that man was he had power backing him up, strong dark power. Enough power for cloaking his face from the young guardian. But what does someone like that want with Spike? Several images appeared in their minds and they shuddered at the thought of something that bad happening to their friend, or ex-friend depending on the person.

Xander looked around at the gloomy faces. Even Anya was worried and she was venomously against Spike after his death. Instantly he remembered something important. However, before he had a chance to speak there was a sudden gasp.

He turned to see Fred extract herself from her boyfriend's arms and rushing to the lobby door.

"Lorne!"

Fred reached her green friend's side frantically looking him over with an expert eye. Lorne had a black bruise on his face, alarming her even more. Fred searched his body while Lorne stood there rolling his eyes as she continued to inspect him from front to back, looking for more injuries. She was afraid of losing another friend.

~ Optimism Fred . . . it's a nice word, use it! The cup is half full . . . we'll get him back~

"God Lorne, what happened!?" Cordelia asked as everyone, including the Scoobies, gathered around the Agonic demon.

Lorne sneered, "Well let's just say people weren't very cooperative."

"So they hit you?" Dawn asked with a frown. When Wesley told them that this demon was friendly, she remembered Clem - who hadn't talked to her after 'the incident'. Clem was always friendly, before, and wouldn't hit anyone. In contrast, Lorne had been aggressive towards them from the moment they the met. Not that he didn't have a valid reason of course. Now he went and got into a fight?

"They did that for a good reason, Munchkin."

Wesley was about to question him what he meant when he noticed Angel just standing there gawking. The ex-watcher followed his gaze and gaped himself.

"*You* hit them!" Wesley exclaimed.

Lorne raised an eyebrow and looked down at his bruised fist. "Yeah well, I had some frustration that needed to be let out." Obviously, that was a trait that had rubbed off from Spike. The only one who wasn't surprised at Lorne's blatant physical outburst was Fred. Even the Scoobies found it hard to imagine this singing-Armani clad-demon lashing out in cold anger.

"I know you're upset about Spike being . . . well not here. I know I am. But I don't go around busting heads coz I can't do anything about it!" Fred refrained from saying how much she would like to be busting some heads right now as well. But that desire was clear on her face for everyone to see.

"Here." Lorne blinked in surprise and took the cool washcloth that the little blonde witch gave him.

Tara blushed as everyone's gaze was directed to her now. She lowered her eyes bashfully. "It . . . um . . . for th-the bruising . . . um so it won't sw-swell," she stuttered under the scrutiny on her, retreating back to her shy persona.

Lorne smiled ~ well if she isn't the mother of us all ~

"Thanks, Glenda." Tara smiled in return and went back to her place next to Willow.

Xander stepped forward towards Lorne and asked. "Is there any information you got, Lorne?" The look he received from Lorne made him shudder. It was cold and full of disgust.

Angel, not hearing Xander's question, or perhaps just not caring, asked, "Any info, Lorne?"

Lorne turned towards Angel, noticing his concern towards his missing lover, and his expression changed from its coldness into composure. "I went to all the demons and humans that I know. Even though I wasn't positive some of them had the information I was looking for. I asked them questions but their answers were vague at most. So I told - asked- them to sing but everyone refused. They were afraid of something or someone. Um well, that's when I told them they should be afraid of me and then . . . I hit them."

Everyone's eyes widened with shock at that, even the Scoobies. From how Lorne held himself, they had assumed that he was diplomatic and not at all aggressive.

Xander, on the other hand, didn't pay any attention to the others' astonishment. He looked at Lorne with a frown. "You shouldn't have hit those people! Violence is not the answer to everything." Lorne gave the 'chilly' look again and Xander shrunk back. ~ God, I hate that look! ~

Angel growled irritated. "What do you mean by that? Spike is worth not only hitting but killing if it was the only way to save him!"

Xander glared at Angel, which was much easier to do than facing Lorne's cold eyes. "But it didn't! He didn't get any useful information by attacking those people!" He turned to Lorne with heated eyes. "Isn't that right, Green-fella?"

Lorne stared at Xander for a minute before lowering his eyes, looking a tad shameful. "He's right. I got nothing."

Fred stood next to him and began to pet his arm soothingly. "It's alright, Lorne. You needed that."

Xander's eyes softened and sighed. "I know you were scared for Spike, but maybe if you would've asked nicely we would've got something useful in our hands."

Angel hollered at Xander. "Like you did any better!"

Xander turned angrily towards Angel. "If you have any useful suggestion, tell me to do it and I'll do it!" he snapped at the older brunette challengingly.

"Go to where Spike is!"

Xander looked uncomfortable. "I told you I can't. They . . ."

"Then what any use are you if you can't do that!"

Cordelia, Wesley and Gunn noted that Angel had begun to lose it, more than normal when Xander was talking. Their former boss was not at his best to chart a great rescue if he wasn't focused. What was *not* making Angel focus? It was Xander. Therefore, the plan was to stop Xander from talking.

"In short, no luck," Gunn said interrupting the staring match, fearing it would result in more. "We have no way to find out where Bleach-boy was taken."

"Well I." Xander said only to be interrupted by Cordelia.

"Yes, and don't forget that clearly strong wizard or what ever he was could've taken him anywhere in this world."

"Yes, but."

"Or another," Wesley said averting Xander from interrupting the conversation, "I'm not big on magics but from the evidence of that residual energy. he could've taken him to another dimension for all we know."

Lorne and Fred shuddered at that thought. Angel dismissed that thought on the basis that he could still feel Spike in this world. If Spike had been taken to another dimension their blood link would be temporarily severed and that hadn't happened, yet.

Xander looked around at the L.A. crew feeling a bit out of place as they shut him out of the conversation each time he tried to say something. What he didn't know was that during the heated debate earlier, the four humans of Angel Investigations had made a decision to put an end to their annoying jabber. By knowing that Angel and Lorne still held Xander responsible for the whole 'kiss mess' they thought that it would be best if Xander would refrain form speaking his mind until the guys cooled down. Then they could focus on important matters like finding and rescuing Spike.

Xander felt hurt at being excluded from the discussion ~ déjà vu, Zeppo! ~ He remembered the many times when the Scoobies pushed him out of the big fights' way so 'he  wouldn't get hurt'. They never knew that it got him more hurt on the inside. ~ At least they did that with good intentions, what do these guys want? ~

He paced at the far side corner of the lobby not failing to notice the smirk Angel shot him at his retreat.

He suddenly felt a hand on his shoulder and turned to see Giles looking at him tenderly. "So you're back then, Xander." Giles said in a very soft voice that Xander never heard the ex-librarian direct towards him before.

Xander realized he hadn't met Giles when he visited the Scoobies. He forced a grin. "Yeah, the Xan-man is back again!" He cheered shaking Giles' hand off his shoulder. He still hadn't forgiven him for what he did to Spike.

Giles kept smiling warmly. He looked Xander over. It frightened him how the boy looked the same as the day he died. His hair was the same length; he was wearing the same leather jacket and the dark blue jeans. *Exactly* the same as Giles had last saw him for the last time.

"So you're the soul of Xander Harris and came here as a guardian guide for the now warrior Spike. In addition, you give comfort to the ones who feel down and despondent. You only appear when someone calls you and disappear when nobody wants you there. The only thing you can touch is souls and your job is to guide Spike on his missions. You're only a soul but you still have the human-Xander's feelings. You could be happy, sad, hurt, and angry and you can fall in love even though you pretty much can do nothing about it. Is that all correct or am I missing anything?"

Xander blinked several times before asking, "How did you know all that?"

"I did some research on guardian guides as soon as Willow told me about you," Giles sighed sadly, "Why did you choose to be something like this, Xander?"

Xander looked down and shrugged. "It's just . . . I couldn't stand seeing Spike in so much pain; I wanted to be there for him, to help him. Knowing that Spike was going to be a warrior for the light, I wanted to be the one who will stand beside him, his own sidekick. So . . . I went for it. I didn't think it through, I guess; I just did what my heart told me, no matter how stupid it sounded," he said the last part quietly, remembering how Spike yelled at him for doing such a foolish thing. He expected Giles to give him the same lecture.

Giles put his hand again on his shoulder and squeezed hard wanting Xander to meet his eyes. When Xander's eyes met Giles', he got a strange look he never saw the older man give him before. A look he actually never saw anyone give him before.

Giles' eyes were glassy and the warm smile didn't leave his lips. "I'm very proud of you."

'I'm very proud of you' were words he never heard before, words that his own parents had never uttered to him ever, not even Willow or Spike who were the closest people there was to him. Words that made his lips tremble in spite of himself and made burning tears gather in his eyes. He watched as Giles held him in a tight embrace. He became aware of his hands holding the man he considered a father closely. That was when he realized how lonely he was.

He took a deep breath and buried his face in Giles' shoulder. "I screwed up real bad, Giles," he said referring to the kiss incident with Spike, knowing that Giles was unaware about that, but not bothering to inform him. "I really didn't mean to hurt anyone, I swear!"

"Shh . . ." Giles whispered, his mouth brushed the dark waves, "I'm sure you hadn't meant to hurt anyone. You just made a mistake like every person who has feelings and emotions, is inclined to do. Even the greatest people make mistakes, no  one's perfect, Xander. The important thing is to learn from it. Don't agonize yourself over it."

Xander exhaled merrily, resting his head on the comforting shoulder for few seconds before pulling out of the hug gently. He gave Giles a dopey smile and spoke, changing the subject, "So . . . you with my ex?"

Giles looked uncomfortable. "I . . . I didn't mean to . . ."

Xander waved him off. "It's alright G-man! I'm, for all accounts and purposes, dead, remember, I can't be with her or anyone," he said lightly before his face became serious. "Do you really love her?"

Giles sighed. "Love is a very strong word, Xander. But I do care about her."

Xander nodded understandingly. There was a long silence in the lobby.

Then, Giles frowned unexpectedly. "Oh, Xander what were you going to say before to the others?"

Xander blinked. "Huh? OH! Oh. I know where the strange man took Spike.. It's somewhere called the wolves and hearts, I think!"

A loud growl  reverberated throughout the vast lobby causing everyone to shudder in fear and inch away from Angel.

"Wolfram and Hart!" The vampire growled as he heard Xander's words.

Xander blinked. "That's what I said," he said then looked at Giles inquiringly, "Wasn't it?"

"Lilah! It has to be her!" Angel snarled.

Gunn hugged Cordelia closer and mumbled, "And here we go again."

******
 
 

He stood in the middle of the posh office wondering what in God's name he was doing here. He never dreamed that he would be in this position, trapped. He had to get out of here, but he didn't want to go back *there*. If he had to pay a price in order not to return to that horrid place he would. He had to. He did.

A corner door opened and brought his thoughts to a stop. A smartly dressed attractive woman came out barely giving him a glance. She looked over some papers on her not so small mahogany desk before turning around to look at him. With a smile, she leaned back against the desk.

"Well done."

He looked at her, reading her expression before he answered. "I'm pleased you approve Ms. Morgan."

She checked over her perfectly manicured nails. When she looked up, she smiled a warm smile that sent chills down his back. "Please call me Lilah. After all you have done us a great service."

Lilah delicately moved with sure steps towards him. "I knew that if anyone could accomplish the task it would be you. Finally the vampire is in our custody," she said in a low voice looking him over. "You have some impressive files on you." She raised her hand to clean an imaginary speck of dust off his shoulder and left her hand there, caressing. "I envision us achieving grand dealing together Mr. Rayne, don't you?" She bit her lower lips and looked in his eyes. "Or can I call you Ethan?"

******

"Please don't." Ethan said tiredly. Lilah stepped away as if stung which caused the warlock to smirk.

"I gave you the vampire as you requested. I believe my job here is done. Now if you would give me my contract I would be leaving."

That caused Lilah to let out a small laugh. "But your contract cannot be nullified unless all demands have been completed."

Ethan's eyes narrowed. "What other demands? I brought you the vampire in record time?"

Lilah smiled. "That you did. But your contract said that the vampire had to be whole."

"As far as can see William the Bloody has all his parts intact."

Lilah tapped her head. "Uh, but you couldn't see that. He has a chip you see, right here. That keeps him from harming humans with nasty jolts of electricity. Not a whole vampire you see."

Ethan frowned. "A chip? How did that happen?"

That seemed to perk the lawyer up. "Oh it seems that you and 'Spike' have something in common. You were both captured by the Initiative. He was able to escape. You on the other hand. were rescued by us!"

~ Some kind of cavalry. but hey, what ever gets me from going back is fine and dandy with me! ~ He thought bitterly.

Our load, he said, "So Mr. the Bloody had a run in with soldier boys eh? And got himself neutered. So what does that gotta do with my contract?"

"You see, we have special plans for him, or better yet, his sire. Angel and his band of annoyers would do what ever they can to get him back. By this time, they would know that we have him. Not that it would do them any good. They wouldn't be able to enter the firm or even transport him out. All the same, caution is better. You never know what they're going to do."

During this talk, Ethan registered the name Angel and frowned at the memories that name conjured, memories of a little town where all his suffering started, and by whom.

"So your contract will remain pending until after the chip is removed. A precaution you see. After that, you are free to go." She tapped her finger against her cheek. "However, you can remain here as long as you like," she smiled meaningfully.

Ethan gave her a better smile. "Yes. Well much appreciated, really." He tightened his lips before asking, "Can I ask you for something?"   Lilah pursed her lips, "Ask away."

"Can I see the vampire?"

She waved that away. "No can do."

"Why is that?!" he asked exasperated. He had something important he needed to have answered.

"Well, William the Bloody is having a chip-ectomy!"

~~~*~~~

"What is Wolfram and Hart? And who's this Lilah?" Willow asked.

"Oh she's this uber evil bitch lawyer chick that has had it in for Angel for years now!" Cordelia answered excitedly, never one to miss a chance to bad mouth the lawyer.

"And who would Wolfram and Hart be?" Giles asked interested.

"Strangely Rupert, Wolfram and Hart is an evil law firm." Wesley answered his colleague.

"What so strange about that? Evil lawyers, that's normal!" Xander said cheerily, happy that he was being noticed again. He was afraid of fading away a while there.

Giles rolled his eyes at the youth's enthusiasm and addressed Wesley, "It is worrying that the Watcher's Council has no knowledge of this new development."

"It's not new," Anya chirped out causing everyone to look at her, "They've been around for . . .  well ever."

"I wouldn't even be surprised if I were you to find out that the Council knew about them . . . personally." Angel said darkly.

The Scoobies looked among themselves confused. Lorne noticed this and catching the Scoobies eyes explained, "Wolfram and Hart are evil, pure evil. They have their fingers, claws, tentacles you name it, into about everything and everywhere . . . even other dimensions. If they think it can profit them in the long run they would invest in it. Hell, they've been after Angel-cakes here for years trying to get him to turn in his white hat license."

"I don't get it. Why don't they just kill him?" Dawn asked throwing an apologizing glance towards the dark vampire.

"That's what I mean, Kid. They don't want him dead coz he might be helpful, evil wise, in the long run. Now *I* would worry about what they might do if they find out about your little secret." Lorne addressed the young girl referring to her real identity.

Giles' eyes widened at what that thought implied. Tara and Willow laid protective hands over Dawn as the girl shrunk back. Xander narrowed his eyes remembering a time not long ago and a petite blonde girl, a promise to a lady Spike had said, well that promise covered them all. The Scoobies exchanged a hard look. Dawn would be kept away from W&H at all costs.

The A.I. people looked around with confusion but the looks they got only promised silence. Only Lorne knew and he nodded his head approvingly.

Suddenly, Xander looked up gasping.

"Xan, what . . ." Willow's question was interrupted by a scream.

Angel fell to the ground howling, clutching his head. Cordelia was by his side in an instant. She placed his head on her lap and stroked his head soothingly. She looked up, frightened, to catch Xander's glassy eyes.

Two words escaped from his hoarse mouth, they explained everything and nothing at the same time. "It's Spike."

******

Ethan frowned, then realization sunk in at what the brunette woman was saying. "The chip is being taken out?"

"As we speak," Lilah said smoothing back her perfectly in place hair. "Soon Mr. Spike would de-neutered."

"I'm curious, what do you intend to accomplish by that?"

"Oh he's going to help us with a little problem we have formally known as Angel."

"The souled vampire?" Ethan asked, now truly interested, "What in bloody hell do you want with him!?"

Lilah looked intrigued, "You're familiar with our resident goody vampire?" She thought for a second then smiled wolfishly, "Oh of course, Sunnydale, the home town of your countless defeats!"

Ethan narrowed his eyes, "Yes. Well I've never met the vampire personally but from what I hear about his past it's. well quite bloody I think is the appropriate word."

"Now that would be Angelus, his evil alter ego," Lilah raised her finger, "And that's who we happen to be after bringing back!"

"And you think taking out the other vampire's restraint might bring it out? I'm wondering how that is?"

"All in good time," she traced his jaw, "All in good time."

Ethan flinched back from her touch, "When?"

Lilah bit her lip, "When we go see our little guest of course."

Ethan nodded his head, "When the operation is over then."

"When the recovery is over," Lilah corrected him.

"Huh?"

"Well Spike had been chipped for nearly three years, now he lost his edge. his blood lust if you will. We're helping to bringing it back."

Ethan felt sick but he had to ask, "How?"

Lilah smiled evilly, "Well as everyone knows, vampires equal blood and pain. Well, we're giving him two in one," she chuckled, "Do you know how painful it is to have your head cut open and probed without any anesthesia? I bet he does."

******

Gunn and Wesley carefully helped Angel sit down on the chair. The vampire just sat there looking at nothing. Only his lips moved soundlessly. Willow looked at him and her eyes began to glaze over with tears. His sightless eyes reminded her of someone, a blonde-haired woman someone, her best friend. This was how Buffy looked when Glory had taken Dawn away, helpless, lost.

A strange thought came to her. Why would Angel be this upset about Spike? She knew that they were all upset but he was taking it harder than all of them combined. Her eyes widened as she suddenly remembered how Angel was protective about Spike that day that she tried so hard to forget, for many obvious reasons. Pages of old books that were hidden in Giles' private book collection, that she went through in her magic obsessed time, passed before her eyes. She looked at her girlfriend, by her side, as if she were about to tell her a great secret, but only was faced with a warm smile and a knowing nod.

~ Leave it to Tara to grasp these things better than me ~

Wesley watched his friend hovering in the catatonic state and knew that there was only one person that could tell them what was happening. Xander was standing there, anger shining in his eyes, his fists clenched tightly at his sides. It was useless as well as unwise to ask the soul now about the events unfolding. He looked to his second option but he was way ahead of him. Lorne's red eyes were locked into Angel's dead ones. He was taking deep breaths. Whatever the seer was glimpsing, it didn't seem to be good. Wesley feared the worst. As to concur with that thought, Lorne fell to his knees breathless, with Fred by his side handing him a glass of water.

Wesley guessed that it was now or never so he asked the question that was on all their minds, "What's wrong with Spike?"

Surprisingly, it wasn't Lorne that answered but Xander. "The *bastards*," he spat out, "Are cutting his head open with him feeling every second of it!"

Gasps all around the hotel lobby were heard.

"Those fuckers!" Gunn snarled heatedly.

"God no," Dawn whispered, hiding her head in the nearest person's chest, who happened to be Anya. The ex-demon placed her arms around the weeping youth. She barely held back her opinion on how painful that experience would be. Xander bitterly smiled at that not failing to notice how Anya clamped her lips hard together. Giles didn't fail to notice that as well and he rewarded her by a kiss on the head.

Xander turned his eyes away from the couple. He looked at Angel who hadn't moved from his place.

"What's wrong with him?" Cordelia asked, still crowding around her friend wishing she could do something.

Xander sighed and looked away, "He's riding it out with him."

Three hours later at Wolfram and Hart's holding quarters.

The man stood in front of the door as the guards inspected him before letting him in. Ethan closed the door behind him and stepped further into the room. Blinking his eyes, he let them adjust to the harsh white light of the room. The room was nauseatingly white. Never will this color appeal to him again. He lowly snickered. Not that he was found of it before.

"Something funny, mate?"

His eyes roamed the room. He barely noticed him. He stepped closer. There he was flattened to the wall with restraints on both arms and legs holding him immobile. The man was as white as the room, porcelain white, even his hair was very fair. The only thing that differentiated him from the white walls was that his face was ashen; his cheeks seemed more sunk in than he last saw him, as if by hunger.

~ He must've lost a lot of blood to. ~

"Done gawking?!"

Ethan snapped and raised his eyes to the bight blue ones. "I believe I am, yes."

Spike raised an eyebrow. "Oi, you're from the home land too?! Bloody hell we're taking over." Ethan just noticed that the voice was hoarse, as if he endured a lot of screaming.

Ethan bitterly smiled, "I doubt there are many of us here."

Spike snorted, "Well there's me, Percy not to mention ol' Rupert and now you, I'd think that is too many English originated people to be in one American city."

Unnoticed to Spike Ethan took a deep breath. ~ Ripper is here? ~

"Oi mate! From one English man to another can I ask ya somethin'?"

Ethan nodded distractedly.

Spike leaned his head to one side he whispered low in his voice, "Come closer."

Ethan took careful steps remembering what he heard about William the Bloody's exploits. He narrowed his eyes when he was less than a foot close.

Spike kept whispering, "Now you won't lie to me, will ya mate? Tell me the truth." Ethan leaned forward caught by the enticing tone. "Now look at me closely and speak the truth coz I'll know if you don't."

He took a deep breath. ".Do I have a bald spot back there?"

******

Ethan shook his head confused, "Excuse me?"

"Oh bloody 'ell just spit it out will ya!"

"Uh," Ethan leaned in to get a closer look, he winched at what he saw. "Just a little.I'm sure it'll grow back," he stated lamely.

"Oh fuck! Great they are all SO dead!" Spike snarled trying to see the back of his head, which was an action that caused Ethan to crack a smile. "Oi! You better not be laughing at me ya ponce! Since you happen to be the reason I'm here in the first place. having my perm done! You should be worried about your own hide!"

That sobered the wizard up. He slowly stepped back. The vampire might be strapped in tight but if he had escaped from the Initiative he could escape from here. That reminded him.

However, before he had a chance to ask his question Lilah came flaunting in. "Oh I see our guest has woken up from his beauty sleep. Hello Spike."

Spike nodded his head. "Bitch," he said acknowledging her.

Lilah smiled. "You know me?"

"Cordy, she never wastes a chance to have a crack at you, so yeah I know ya."

That only got an eyebrow raised from her. "So I take it you know what I want?"

"Peaches bad," Spike answered simply.

She nodded, "Excellent, so you know you're here to help accomplish that."

"How pray tell might I do that, pet?"

"By making him happy, how else?" Lilah raised her head to meet his eyes challengingly. Spike only broke off laughing.

Until that, Ethan had stood still, but the last comment enticed him to ask, "I've heard how Angelus lost his soul the last time by the slayer . . . how is he able to give him perfect happiness?"   Lilah's eyes clouded. "Believe me, he can. And I have the tapes to prove it."

That caused Spike to stop laughing. He raked his eyes over her face trying to find out is she were telling the truth or not. In the end, he nodded. "Must remember to clean the hotel. . . we've got ourselves some nasty bugs."

"Too late for that now."

Spike sneered. "Well, bitch, at least I hope you enjoyed the show."

Ethan looked around the room uncomfortable. Lilah noticed this and smiled in high spirits, "Don't look like that Mr. Rayne. It isn't like something you haven't done before." That caused him to look at her sharply wondering what else this frightening woman might know about him. But by this time she had turned back to Spike.

"So how about it, William? You on board?"

"Don't call me that," Spike snarled. "And what makes you think I'll do business with scum like you!"

"Oh you will, *William*. Darla failed us but you had better make sure you don't. I gave you back your bite, vampire, you should be more grateful." '

Spike opened his eyes, surprised. "Oh, sorry crazy lady for taking out this nasty chip out by splitting my head open while I'm awake . . . to feel every second!"

"Well that's more like it. It's good to see fire in your eyes." She smiled wolfishly.

"Fire won't make me go against my sire and mate!"

Lilah's face became blank, no emotion showing. She turned to leave with Ethan on her tail before calling back to the hanging blond, "Maybe not but I will."

******

"I can't feel him anymore." Angel whispered catching everyone's attention.

Willow and Fred raised their heads from the computer screen where they were researching all they know about W&H to add to the information they got from Anya. They joined Giles and Wesley who were reading some book that Willow knew had something to do with revealing spells, not that she read it or anything, she just saw the cover, and rushed towards the lobby.

Cordelia, who had never left Angel's side, held his hand trying to calm the frantic vampire down.

"Oh God I can't feel him!!" Gunn helped Cordelia to hold down their hysterical boss down.

"God dammit Dead-boy focus! You still feel him but less concentrated."

Angel pushed Gunn and Cordelia away from him and had his hand through Xander's neck in a split second. Through his neck since Xander went incorporeal anticipating Angel's attack.

"How would you know!?"

The young guardian locked his eyes with the growling vampire.

". . .  You felt his pain and now the silence makes you think he's dead but he isn't. he's still there feel the bond for God's sake!"

Angel took a few deep, unnecessary breaths, slowly closing his eyes. His mouth started to twist up in a shadow of a smile. He opened his eyes to look around.

"He is alive."

Everyone breathed a sigh of relief, for both vampires. Wesley released the deep breath he was holding. Angel was acting SO childish towards the young soul; sometimes the ex-watcher wondered what the many years in Angel's life ever did for him; other than give him a too oversized ego. He knew that the dark vampire feared the boy, because somewhere deep down he believed that Xander had some intention to steal Spike away from him, Wesley didn't know where he got that from. Even the smallest smiles that the two friends shared drove Angel to a growl if nothing worse. Will Angel ever realize that the only thing those two shared was friendship?

Angel turned to Xander looking somewhat embarrassed; he lowered his eyes like a little boy and whispered. "Sorry," he paused, "for almost chocking you."

Xander smiled slightly. "It's okay. I know how hard it must've been. I felt Spike's pain, too."

Angel jolted. Xander felt Spike, too. How? Well, yes, the Powers bonded him to Spike but that didn't mean he would feel him like Angel could. What if it was something else?

Nobody noticed how troubled Angel was except for Lorne, who gave the vampire a sympathetic look. His eyes caught Dawn approaching Angel. She put a hand on the brunette vampire's arm.

Angel looked down at her. "I'm sorry," she spoke softly.

Angel looked at her sad filled eyes, knowing she was trying to comfort him. "It's going to be alright," he informed her. "Don't worry, we'll bring him back." He tried to sound confident as he placed his hand on her shoulder squeezing it reassuringly.

Dawn shook her head. "No, I meant sorry for what I said and the way I treated Spike." She bit her lip with guilt. "I blamed him for what happened to both Buffy and Xander, I . . ." She trailed off, not sure if she could tell Angel this.

Angel now placed both hands on her shoulders and was looking directly in her eyes. "It's okay, Dawn, You were just upset and . . ." He wanted to soothe the girl but didn't know what to say. Angelus was growling angrily ~ the little brat! Blaming it all on him, eh? How dare she? ~

Dawn tore herself from his grip, looking up at him. "No, it's not okay! Buffy's death was all my fault, but . . . I was just trying to put the blame on him." Tears started to form in her eyes. "It was never his fault but he always thought it was. It was entirely mine!" She sobbed shaking all over.

Angel held her in his arms, muttering soft words of comfort. He knew there was no point in trying to deny that it was her fault because it simply wouldn't convince her. The girl buried her face in his chest. "Do you think he'll ever forgive me?" she mumbled the question in a broken voice that caused Angel to hug more tightly.

"Sure, he will," he smiled, "He's Spike." Then a thought occurred to him.

"Why are you telling me all of this?"

Dawn, pressing herself tightly in the embrace, said. "Because I know how much you care about him."

Angel frowned looking down at her. He felt her smiling against his chest. "People might think I'm just a kid and forget that I have eyes too."

She looked up at him. "Do you love him?"

"Always," he said without hesitation.

She smiled and rested her head in his chest. "Good."

~~~*~~~

Xander was beyond concerned. He was watching the others trying to find a way to locate Spike. Willow and Fred were searching the net, Tara and Anya searching for some spell, Cordy was pacing the room and Gunn was feeling up his gun. ~ That sounded funny! ~ He giggled before mentally slapping himself, ~ focus Xander, think! ~

He looked around again; Angel and Dawn were having a mushy scene, Giles and Wesley were having a stiff-men discussion in the office. Xander frowned and flew over towards the office to see what was so important, before someone grabbed his arm and shoved him towards the kitchen.

Panicking, Xander turned around to see Lorne closing the kitchen door behind them before looking at him coldly. Xander looked him in the eye trying nervously to stay calm.

Before Spike had called him for the first time, Xander had observed the green demon and Fred, since they were Spike's close friends. His idea about Lorne was; a funny loveable demon who doesn't hate anyone and a devoted friend. He always thought if Spike would ever call him or speak to him, he and Lorne would become great friends. However, once the incident in Caritas happened, Lorne seemed to close off against him more than Angel himself did.

Sure Angel was giving him a hard time but that was always the deal between them. He would irritate the vamp and the vamp would explode, well, in theory. Even if he hadn't kissed Spike at the club, Angel would have never liked him. Lorne didn't seem to mind him before the infamous kiss, he was actually happy for Spike that he had his friend back. He knew the demon was angry because he ruined things between the two lovers; after all, they were both his friends.

"Greeny! I feel must warn you, I don't have sex in the kitchen on the first date."

Lorne ignored the sarcastic comment and said, "Why are you doing this to Angel?"

His voice was icy, reminding Xander of his home life, sadly still not forgotten. The soul looked confused, "Doing what?"

Lorne glared. "Making him feel like he's gonna lose Spike to you every minute!"

Xander closed his eyes tiredly, "That damned kiss, again." He grumbled.

"Well, you should have thought about that before you did it!" Lorne yelled.

"I said I was sorry, didn't I?" Xander yelled back. "What more do you what me to do?"

Lorne approached him, fury shining in his red eyes. "I want you to shut the hell up! I want you to disappear forever! I want you to leave my friends alone!"

A pang hit Xander's un-beating heart as he heard how strongly Lorne felt hatred towards him. He gave a shaky laugh, "Well, I can't. Not because I'm bonded to Spike but because I don't want to." He looked at Lorne's eyes, "Got it, green-boy?"

Lorne grabbed Xander by his collar. "Look, I know what this is all about! You want Spike, so you'll snatch him away from Angel!"

Xander looked fiercely at the demon. "You know nothing about me!"

"Oh, I know, I know how you feel about him, *Puppy-eyes*!"

Xander shoved away freeing himself from Lorne's grip. He fixed his collar, looking at Lorne angrily.

The Caritas owner went on, "This bond between you and Spike is what's making Angel feel threatened. When you told him that you can feel Spike, it hurt!"

Xander's eyes widened. "Is that what made Angel feel threatened?" he asked. "Look Lorne, tell him it's nothing, really. I did feel Spike but not as intense as him coz Angel is Spike's mate and sire. I could never compete with Angel on that."

 Lorne snarled. "I know you could never do that you stupid . . ."

"Hey, why are you getting on my back like this?" Xander was really getting annoyed with Lorne's actions.

"Because before you came here Angel was finally getting out of his broodiness façade. he and Spike were finally solving their problems. But since you came to the vampy picture, my two best friends are losing what made them happy. Angel doesn't trust Spike anymore and Spike is miserable again because of you!"

He pocked a finger to Xander's chest, hard. "I wish you just stayed in cloud nine," he spoke firmly before exiting of the kitchen, leaving Xander staring back at him feeling emotions collide. He exhaled heavily trying to make himself feel better, but Lorne's words were powerfully echoing in his head, and he didn't doubt that everyone at Angel Investigation feel the same thing about him. Sighing bitterly, Xander waited a while before following Lorne's tracks to the lobby.

******

Spike bit his lips with all his strength, causing blood to steadily drip out of them. He was fighting the scream that gathered in his throat, hours ago, refusing it the leave of his lips. That was happening as Lilah's men were submerging his feet in a holy water tank with no mercy, before lifting him up, leaving his feat and a part of his leg to frizzle in the damp air.

The pain was unbearable but Spike fought it. He didn't want to make Carl, one of Lilah's toughest men that she chose to torture him, happy. Carl was actually the organizer of this little party, which the opening was 'let's find out where a cross *won't* burn a vampire' which of course resulted in failure since apparently every smidgen of vampire flesh was susceptible to it. *Carl* thought that even though the experiment proved nothing new that it was very informative, since it seems that different parts react faster.  But he was disappointed though that Spike wasn't vocally cooperative. Nevertheless, the party was just starting. Spike vowed he wouldn't give the man the satisfaction of hearing him scream with agony.

Spike's efforts were paying off. Carl was filled with rage and wrath. He was pacing the room's length as his men were dripping over Spike's already scar covered chest holy water. "Is this enough or you want more?" Carl snapped at the bonded vamp. "Are you willing to cooperate with Ms. Morgan?"

Spike's face was bloated from the pain and exhaustion, but he gave him a smirk, "What wrong, mate? Is that all you've got?"

Carl scowled. His men had taken off the vamp's nails, but he didn't let out even a tiny whimper. "So you're trying to show me how tough you are, huh? It's not for your own good, fucker! What you've been through 'til now is just a start. My men extract nails as an appetizer!"

Spike tried his best to stay conscious. "Is that right? So what's their main feast then?"

"You fucker!" Carl yelled before turning to the men. "Light, now!" he ordered.

The other man obeyed with no hesitation and gave him a cigarette. Carl inhaled and let out the smoke in Spike's face. "You know," Carl started. "I quit smoking for a whole year because Ms. Morgan hated that awful habit." His eyes sparkled fervidly. "I guess you wonder why I'm back on such a nasty habit."

"Coz' you want to make everyone happy with your death?" Spike asked cockily.

Carl shook his head and took another drag, "No fucker, I light a cigarette so . . ."

Suddenly, he attacked Spike and fused the cigarette in his cheek yelling, ". . . I can put it out here!"

It was such a sudden move that Spike couldn't hold on to the scream of agony. Carl backed off smirking, "That was what I was looking for? Good boy."

"You fucking git!" Spike roared at him.

One of the men rushed, slapping Spike on the face in the same spot Carl used the cigarette him, shouting, "Shut up!"

Carl smirked as Spike shuddered with pain, his resolve broken with the torturer's sudden attack. He knew what the master vampire was doing, holding the pain. However, this had been his job for years; he knew how to break them. "Are you going to work with us now, vampire?"

"Never!" Spike snapped with blood pooling out of his mouth.

Carl shrugged. "Then you don't give me a choice." He turned to his men, "Take his fangs out!" he ordered.

Spike's screams were ringing like music in Lilah's ears as she and Ethan were watching the torment of William the Bloody. Lilah was smirking while Ethan closed his eyes not able to look anymore, feeling sorry for the vampire.

******

Angel was shaking from the pain but he refused to listen to what anybody said. He just rocked back and forward whimpering. The men's faces were hard and angry and the women are nearly crying. Or had been crying as Dawn was before she fell asleep and Giles and Anya took her to sleep in Fred's room.

Lorne pursed his lips. "That's it!"

Everyone looked at the green demon as he stalked out of the offices, where everyone was, dragging a confused Cordelia with him. He placed her in front of the crouching and rocking Angel.

"Now princess put your hands on both sides of his head and concentrate."

Xander stepped beside them. "Are you sure this is wise?"

Lorne glared at Xander but before the demon could make an accusation. "Look Green-boy, I'm not in for Angel to die, ok? I wouldn't mind it, don't forget, but I won't do that to Spike. I'm just worried about Cordy that's all."

Lorne sighed. "Look kid, how about a truce? Angel can't take this much strain. he won't be any good when the rough and tumble comes a'nocking. Princess here can help. You know that."

Xander nodded his head, "But is she ready?"

"Hello! Girl that your speaking of, standing right here! Spill you two," Cordelia said glaring at the two men.

Xander grinned, "Well, what my dear friend Lorne here suggests is that you put the whammy on Angel-cakes so he can get his vamp beauty sleep."

Cordelia raised an eyebrow at the selected words in that sentence and turned to look at Lorne who was glaring at the smirking guide.

"I can do that?" she asked, excited at being able to help her friend.

"Sure thing, sugar. You're not only a seer but a half demon, a sort of empath demon, if you will." Lorne nodded.

"Oh. cool! What should I do?"

Xander looked at Lorne then back at Cordelia, now aware of their audience. "Look CC, you have some great power in you. You can be able to feel what others feel and take away the badness."

Cordelia's eyes gaped but she nodded. She turned to Lorne to see if he had anything to add.

"Don't worry your pretty little head. I'll be here, talking you through it. You won't feel a thing but a sense of calm. If you do this correctly, Angel should fall into a relaxing dreamless sleep, okay?"

"Got it oh mighty sensei-s!"

Wesley and Giles inched closer, their Watcher blood calling to them, their girlfriends on their heals. Gunn came besides his girlfriend to give her moral support. Tara and Willow looked on in awe. Cordelia had placed her hands on Angel's head as Lorne instructed. Angel hadn't proved to have notice except that his rocking had stopped. With guidance from the two men behind her, Cordelia closed her eyes and concentrated. A bright light enveloped her and Angel for mere seconds, revealing later a sleeping Angel and a grinning ex-cheerleader.

"I did it!"

"That you did, Delia. I'm so proud of you." Gunn held her close and kissed her on the lips. Then he helped Lorne and Wesley with carrying the big vampire and laying him on the office couch.

That happened three times in the next three days. Angel would wake up, look around frantically then start howling and whimpering. Then Cordelia would come and put him back to sleep.

"So we're just going to keep making him sleep until when?" Cordelia asked. "Coz guys I'm getting really tired."

******

"What the hell do you want?" Spike tried to make that sound threatening but only was able to make himself sound pitiful.

Ethan grimaced at the way Spike looked. He was burned everywhere. There was a large burn on his cheek along with strange bite marks on his arms and neck. And he could barely keep his eyes open from the fatigue and hunger.

Ethan looked at the cameras on the wall discreetly waving his hand in front of them causing them to focus on an elusion room he had conjured.

"I want to help."

Spike laughed humorlessly ending up in a coughing fit. "You think I'm daft enough to trust you!"

"I don't need you to trust me, mate!" Ethan said angrily. "I'm giving you away out, you fool."

"Why would you do that?" Spike looked at him suspiciously.

"Let's say we were in the same boat once, also I can't stand that bint Lilah!"

"I can get the bint bit but what boat?"

Ethan narrowed his eyes, "One goes by the infamous name the Initiative."

Spike smiled. "So you *are* him."

Ethan frowned at that.

"Ethan Rayne," Spike explained, "The one that turned Rupert into a Fyarl demon and got sent with the army boys."

Ethan chuckled, "So you know."

"Know mate! Hell you should've seen Giles as that demon. now mate that was a good one!" Spike grinned at the remembrance.

"Well Ripper didn't think so." Ethan looked saddened, "Not that I blame him on that."

"What lawyer bitch said, she meant Rupert didn't she?"

"The past is dead."

"Yet it isn't." Spike caught his eyes in a cold look. "I learned that."

"With Angel?"

"Yes. But let me ask you mate, you've been under those bastards' captor for nearly three years right?" Ethan nodded at that a dark look passing his eyes. "And now you're going to help a friend, and I use the term lightly, of the man who sent you there in the first place. And you ask me to trust you?"

Ethan smirked, "I repeat. I am of no need of your trust. It just would only make things easier.  And yes, I've hated Ripper for two years, planned his death in many grisly ways . . . but I was over that months ago. I've realized that I've caused him all that anguish through the years in a childish way to get his attention, I know better now."

"Hate to break it to ya mate but he has a girlfriend."

The wizard smiled bitterly. "I've seen her. The tapes Lilah has are really clear but lacking audio I suggest you do that bug check as soon as you return home."

"You've seen him with someone else and you're going to back down like that?"

"Well good friend, it's better to know that he lives happy now after everything."

Spike chuckled. "You're a bloody romantic . . .  my type. Tell me what I can do."

Ethan nodded. "I've gone through the tapes carefully," Spike raised an eyebrow. Ethan frowned at him, "Not those tapes. And I've noticed some sort of ghost running around."

Spike's eyes twinkled. "Oh that be Xander!"

"Yes, can he travel out side of the hotel?"   "Xander can track me down anywhere, mate, if that's what you're leaning towards. But even I can feel the barriers around this place; he won't be able to get in."

"He will," Ethan leaned in, "Now listen to me carefully."

******

"Cordelia stay away from me!" Angel yelled. He looked at the doors for the hundredth time wishing that it wasn't light out.

"Promise me you won't go all loopy on us again and I won't do it!" Cordelia warned circling around the rounded couch in middle of the lobby.

The others were blinking tiredly at the two. They were at it for two and a half hours since Angel woke up, if Fred's count was accurate.

Xander popped in next to Willow sensing her need for him. "What's up Will?" he looked at the running brunets, "Well other than those two."

Willow sighed, "Sorry Xan, nothing. Fred and I have been through everything we have on the net and Anya's tips helped us in like nothing. Tara's tracking spell almost burned down the hotel. Giles and Wesley went through every book in the place, looking for what. I have no idea. Gunn and Lorne cleaned out their contact black books and got out with nil. Hell, even Willy got out some old favors but no one is willing to play against W&H!"

Xander fanned his hands in front of her face, "Breath Willow breath!!"

Willow giggled and pushed his hand away tiredly.

"Xander!"

"Oh God." Xander turned to look at an enraged Angel that was pointing at Cordelia, "I bet you were the reason for this!" the vampire growled.

Xander raised his hands in a calming gesture. "Whoa . . . it wasn't my idea . . .  it was . . .  Spike!"

"Wha . . ." Angel questioned but there was no one to question as Xander had disappeared.

~~~*~~~

"Spike!" Xander yelled as he appeared right in front of his friend. His laugh of joy was replaced by a horror look at the horrible condition that Spike was in. His eyes zoomed in on a strange looking burn in his left cheek and he winched thinking of what might have caused it and worse. "God! What did those bastards do to you?" He flew up next to Spike to check on him.

"Listen mate, we don't have much time. He can only keep a bit of the barriers down for three minutes before you'd be trapped her with me." Spike explained wanting so much to have his friend in his arms but knowing there was no time. "Barriers? What?" "I told you, Xan. There's no much time. Hear me out!" "Okay," Xander nodded then frowned. "Wait, who's he?"

"Xan focus!"

"Ok!"

Spike heaved a sigh feeling exhausted from a whole three days of torment. "Tell Ripper to wait until midnight then feel it."

Xander looked confused he furrowed his brow. "Huh? Spike, this isn't the time for riddles!!"

"Mate, it's the only way to get me out!"

Xander stared at him for a bit, and then nodded, "Ok, ok . what else?"

Spike looked hesitant. ~ okay this gonna sound ridiculous coming from my mouth, but here goes nothing! ~ He thought before making his mind. "Ok can you tell . Angel .?"

"Yes?"

"That I love him." Spike said quickly.

Xander growled. "Spike he knows that!"

"But I want him to know it in case."

Xander held out his hands stopping him from continue. "Ok, ok but no 'in case'. Fate is bad enough without being tempted. Anything else, I've got less than thirty seconds!"

"No," Spike shook his, and then remembered, ". . . no wait!"

"What?!"

Spike bit his lip but it hurt him so he stopped. "Kiss him for me." "WHAT! Spike no!" Xander yelped not believing that Spike would suggest something like that.

Spike pouted, looking at Xander from under his lashes. "Please mate what if."

"God stop it!" Xander shut his eyes so he won't look at Spike. Even though the vampire was full of burns and burses, he looked damn adorable with that pout. "You are so evil," he muttered.

"Will you do it?" Xander heard the hopeful tone of Spike's voice.

He looked at his insane friend. "How can you joke at a time like this?"

Spike blinked confused. "Why do you think I'm joking?"

"Yes, I'm sure you're not." The soul said jaded.

"So?"

Xander gave a tired sigh. "Yes alright." He knew Lorne was going to make a big deal out of this too.

He looked sadly at Spike. "So I guess I'd better go, huh?"

Spike nodded miserably.

Xander hugged Spike but not tightly so it won't hurt him and said with his head buried in his older friend's shoulder. "We'll get you out, count on it."

Spike tried to wrap his arms around the boy but he forgot how the metal bonds were forcefully holding his hands to the wall, he ran his nose along Xander's hair and neck instead. "I'm sure you will, pet."

Xander drew back and looked at Spike's face for a minute before starting to fade.

Spike watched his friend disappearing slowly and his chest couldn't stop the strong cramp that went through it. Would this be the last time he would see his friend?

******

"W-where did he go?" Angel looked around. Xander was standing right there! Sometimes Angel couldn't help but forget what the young man was now.

"Did he say Spike?" Fred asked out loud looking up from her computer, her eyes bleary.

"He did," Cordelia said with a frown, "But what happened?"

"Perhaps he was called?" Wesley suggested reminding them of Xander's purpose as a guardian to all who call.

"By who?" Gunn asked. "We're all here," he said counting the heads to make sure.

"Not all of us," Giles corrected looking pointedly at them, "He mentioned Spike's name, didn't he."

"But the barrier.?" Tara started, but was cut off when the object of their discussion suddenly appeared.

"That was close!" Xander said wiping fake sweat of his forehead.

"Did you see him?" Angel growled couldn't help but feel some jealousy rise at the thought of Xander being able to see Spike while he could not. "Why you!?" he asked in a low voice refraining from saying 'why not me'.

"Can you teleport? Chill Dead-boy." Getting a glare in response he quickly replied, "Yeah I did."

"How was he?" Fred asked beating Angel to the question.

Xander's eyes darkened as he remembered how Spike looked. He looked starved. And the brunette knew he needed to lose a lot of blood in the span of three days for the vampire to look the way he did. Also he refused to acknowledge why Spike's voice was somewhat different like something was missing. He shuddered not wanting to think abut that now.

Several seconds past and Xander noticed that he hadn't answered the question. Everyone was gazing at him intently, holding their breaths, figuratively and literally, waiting for him to drop the bomb.

He knew that lying wouldn't work with these people of even hiding a little bit, he had to tell them everything, even if it was bad. His eyes landed on Dawn who was sitting on the small couch holding her knees to her chest. She glared at him knowing what was on his mind.

"Don't even think it Xander. I'm not a kid!"

Xander sighed and nodded his head. He turned to look at the vampire and found his heart contract. The look of despair that was on Angel's face settled Xander's mind.

"He looked bad," he said straight forward deciding to forgo the details. They would see them themselves soon enough. Catching Angel's eye he continued, "But he's strong and as soon as we get him out of there he'll tell you that himself. Then of course you can all pamper him as you like," he said the last part lightly addressing not only the teary women in the room but the men as well.

Angel coughed and nodded.

"Get him out? You found away?" Giles asked wiping his glasses, he was sure there was some dust there.

"Well. I think so," Xander said unsure.

"You think so? How can you think so? You just said that we'd get him out!" Gunn said finally feeling the stress of the situation. The only time he left the hotel was to track down some new lead. Even Cordelia was currently visionless. Trust the powers to choose to give them a break when he needed to pound on something.

Xander blinked. "Well it's Spike's fault for giving me a riddle!"

"A riddle!?" Willow practically jumped up at that word; the reawakened geek popping out.

"Sorry Wills, this one's for G-man."

Giles head snapped up at the mention of his name. "For me?"

"Yep. Bleach-boy said to give you a message."

"Oh. really? Very well then, what is it?"

Xander frowned as if concentrating trying to remember exactly what Spike had said. ~Coz you never know with these dastardly riddles! Every detail is important to finding the answer. not that I've solved any or anything but that's what Willow always said. ~

"He said and I quote 'tell Ripper to wait until midnight then feel it' end quote."

Giles's eyes widened at the name. Spike never called him that. Only one person did that. "You're sure?"

Xander nodded.

Giles pinched his nose. ~ I don't know what you're up to Ethan but this better not be a trick ~

"Very well, we wait until midnight then."

"What is this, Rupert?" Wesley asked intrigued.

"I'm not sure," Giles lied, "Except I assume it has to do with magic, so I am in need of some supplies."

Wesley looked at him wearily but nodded. "We'll leave to a magic store I know right away."

"Oooh I think I should come," Anya said enthusiastically, "I can help with the supplies *and* check out the competition."

Xander smiled at that. Anya and money, they were the lasting couple. He turned his head as someone poked him on the shoulder. Angel stood on his left, his static face in place.

"Yeah?"

"Um did he give you a message. to me?" Angel asked softly.

Xander nodded and was rewarded with a small twitch of anticipation on the broad face.

"Yep. it went something like this. tell Angel I love him."

A wide grin made its home on the vampire's face before it was replaced with a frown. "Don't people usually say that when things go bad?" he asked worriedly.

Xander chuckled. "Well Spike is ever the melodrama queen."

Angel smiled as well. Xander coughed remembering Spike's other request.

"Thank you Xander," Angel said earnestly.

"Oh I assure you. won't be thanking me after this."

"Huh?" He sounded in confusion before Xander forcefully grabbed his head with both hands and Angel suddenly found a pair of warm lips attached to him. He was being thoroughly kissed by Alexander LaVelle Harris! He stood there in complete shock as Xander stepped back wiping his mouth disgustedly.

"Angel lips. ugh. lips of Angel!"

"Jesus Christ!! Can't you keep your lips to yourself?!" Lorne screeched when he recovered as the others only gaped in shock or in interest in the case of the female masses of the hotel. "Gods of fashion, first Spike then Angel!" He looked at Anya's direction as he remembered her former self. He pointed at Xander. "You're a demon chaser. oooh you better not be after my sweet lips next!"

Xander glared at him still wiping his mouth. Whilst the two-century-old vampire stood there with an open mouth blinking idiotically still not sure what had gone there.   Dawn looked up at Cordelia unsurely then asked, "Am I wrong to think that was kinda hot?"

Strangely it was Willow who answered, "Hell no!" The six women looked at each other before giggling. The men only avoided looking at the two brunette-dead-men's direction.

Xander groaned ~ you are SO dead as soon as we save you Spike! ~

******

It was five minutes until midnight. Utter silence was the only thing to be heard in the vast lobby. The lights were dimmed. A group of eleven was strategically placed in an outline of a ring. In the middle, a figure stood completing a powder colored circle. When he was satisfied that it was closed he sat down.

Giles lit some herbs and started muttering a soft chant. Wesley recognized it. It was a method of meditating, easing the way of contact, to what or whom he did not know. That caused the ex-rogue-demon-hunter to frown. When he and Tara offered to help Giles in what spell he intended to do, the older man venomously refused causing everyone's suspicion to rise. Giles then countered calmly saying that Spike specified it was *he* that had to do this and anyone who might meddle could demolish the entire plan.

That caused Angel to interfere and put an end to the negotiation. Saying that Giles was an accomplished wizard and that he will let nothing, giving a glare to Wesley, get in the way of rescuing Spike. He then ordered everyone to stand away from Giles giving him room for the spell and at the same time staying close in case something went wrong. Angel had his doubts as well. A master vampire like him didn't survive on mere trust of others. He didn't like it when Giles refused to, at least, give them additional information on how he would be able to get Spike back. And when he growled in protest Giles only looked at him in a way that even caused Angelus inside of him to cringe in fear. The English man had looked the vampire in the eyes and told him that if he wanted his childe back, he, unfortunately, had to rely on a human. Thus they were standing as a ring, all prepared for anything.

The soft chant stopped. It was exactly midnight. Giles' eyes closed and occupants of the room gasped as they felt a rush of power pass through them. Willow swallowed and looked at Tara and found her looking towards her with an encouraging nod and a smile. Instantly the young red head felt her will return and instead of focusing on the energy flowing out of Giles, she focused on him.

~Hello Ripper!~

~Ethan. What are you up to?~

~I'm hurt really.~

~Stop the games. name your price~

~*mental chuckle* oh Ripper still not trusting I see~

~You? Always~

~Hmmm well to answer your question.~

~. . .~

~I need a favor~

~I knew it! Always searching for the new victim Ethan, you'll never change~

~Victim? Who.?~

~You know who. Spike. Now tell me what you want so I will be through with this troublesome thing. I'm not very fond of having you in my head you know!~

~*mental sigh*~

~Ethan? Is something.~

~Nothing! Very well if you are adamant to know I do require a little. loan~

~*exasperated mental sigh* I knew it. demand already!~

~Now demand is such a harsh word.~

~*mental growl* Ethan!~

~Fine, fine don't turn Ripper on me~

~Wasn't I always *he* to you?~

~*mental whisper* always~

~huh. what did.?~

~Nothing! You want your vampire back you help me~

~Help you. what do you mean?~

~You need to get me away from this law firm~

~Now I thought you helped them capture Spike in the first place and now you want to leave?~

~Don't ask questions you know you will never get an answer to!~

~Ethan what.?~

~Listen *Rupert* you ask me nothing! I get you the vampire back and you give me an energy boost, that's my proposition take it or leave it. However, if it was me in your position I would take it, I would not dare risk to anger Angelus any more than you did~

~How did you know about that?~

~*metal smirk* William and I talk, he's a fine bloke~

~That he is. What do you want?~

~Told you a little of that power you have been keeping for years. hmmm like fine wine~

~Why?~

~To get home~

~Okay~

~Why not!! Huh? What did you say?~

~*mental smirk* I said yes Ethan. You getting deaf old chap?

~W-why so easy? Coz of the vampire?~

~*mental chuckle* I'm not afraid of Angelus. But the prospect of getting you as far away from me is quite appealing!~

~Oh~

~Now how are you going to get Spike out of that law firm?~

~Huh? Oh sorry was lost there a minute. okay simple I hold on to him while you reach through my mind to transport him to your location~

~He's with you?~

~In the same room, yes~

~And that Ms. Morgan doesn't know? I suspect that they have security cameras.~

~Don't get paranoid on me, mate. I'm not dim they've been taken care of, who ever is watching just sees Spike still strapped to the wall in the room alone~

~He's tied, still?~

~*metal grumble* couldn't release him without them knowing, now could I? The plan, focus!~

~Oh yes, please proceed~

~Like I said, after I hold on to him it would be fairly easy for you to transport him~

~What about you. the alarms?~

~That's where the little credit you're going to give me will come in handy. I'll transport myself out of there~

~Why do you need my help? I saw how you transported Spike and yourself before, why can't you now?~

~I'm many things old mate but I'm no junky, they gave me some of their dark power. As addicting as it is I think I'll pass. As for yours. well you can't get addicted again, now can you?~

~*mental frown* you don't have much magic, why?~

~That's a story for another day. Deal?~

~Very well, where do you intend to transport to?~

~Told ya didn't I? Home~

~England but that's.~

~Far, yeah you're going to need several goodnights sleep after this. No time for your new gal~

~You know about.?~

~*mental snarl* deal?!!~

~. . . Yes, you have a deal, when?~

~Now, ready?~

~Got hold of Spike?~

~*mental smirk* In the knickers~

~WHAT! Fine let's do this already and get it over with~

Several gasped as they saw the circle begin to glow. A white mist suddenly began to form, only to disappear a couple minutes later. Eyes widened at what they saw.

"Spike!" Angel started to the circle to be stopped by Wesley. He turned his head with a snarl but only found calm eyes looking towards him.

"You open the enclosed circle before Rupert is finished and you might lose him again."

That calmed the enraged vampire. Angel settled for looking at his lover, assessing the visible wounds and wondering dreadfully of what lay beneath. Spike was right beside Giles who strangely still seemed to be in the same trance he was before. All at once, the old wizard opened his eyes with a gasp, and with that, opening the circle. Angel, counting his blessings, speedily rushed to his blond childe's side, not noticing that the others were doing the same.

"Spike!" Not surprisingly, it was Xander who reached the goal first. The young soul was quickly shoved aside by a hissing Angel. He stepped back as the brunet vampire rushed towards his lover.

"Mine!" The dark vampire held the now blinking Spike to him.

Xander stood away from the two lovers, a small smile gracing his lips. He looked to the left catching Fred's eye. He knew she wanted to make sure her friend was okay but was more afraid of Angel to try even getting near him. He smiled warmly to her, a smile that clearly said 'tomorrow Angel will be less hen-y'.

"Rupert, are you okay?!" A question sounded by a frightful Anya caught Xander's side attention.

"I'm fine honey, just a little worn out that's all. I need to rest for a couple of days and I would be as good as new." Giles said reassuring his girlfriend.

Anya gasped, "Does that mean no sex!" Eyes turned to look at her while she giggled, "Hey I had to keep to the image!" She kissed Giles' head. "I'll look after you."

Giles smiled tenderly albeit weakly whilst Xander gazed at the two intently, wondering why he only felt a little jealous of their life together but not about Giles being with Anya. He was distracted from his thoughts by a yelp.

"That bloody poof copped a feel!!"

As first words from someone who has just been rescued, that's a first. Fred blinked confused.

"Spike, I'm glad that you're okay and still non ash tray size an' all really but who did what?"

Angel narrowed his eyes and looked callously at Giles whose eyes widened. "Not me!"

Anya looked between Giles and Spike then smiled. "Don't be scared of telling me the truth, honey. Spike had a very nice body I wouldn't mind a threesome really ask Xander."

Now eyes were scattered all around but mostly on a blushing Giles and a reality blinking Xander.

"Really with who?" Young curious Dawn asked Xander.

"Dawn!!!" Willow yelped. "Xander and Anya's ex-sex life is none of your business. now um go upstairs." Dawn gaped as she saw Cordelia and Fred also nod grinning while Tara tried to hold a smile.

"You guys only want to hear the good stuff!" Dawn huffed.

"No we are not; it's purely for scientific." Fred stopped feeling herself how stupid the explanation was going to be so she shrugged smiled at her gaping boyfriend before kissing him on the lips. "Love you." Wesley returned the gesture as he was fully accepting that women were an unsolvable mystery destined to remain as such.

"Anya I don't have any interest towards Spike really." Giles was saying her name but in truth, he was looking at a growling dark headed vampire urging him to believe him.

Angel turned his eyes towards Xander who had finally gotten control over his shimmering form. The recently corporeal boy vehemently shook his head. "I never said yes to her!" That only got another growl out of Angel.

Spike who was watching the proceedings carefully, pouted. "You two don't want me?" He faked a sniffle. Giles and Xander whimpered and pretended that they hadn't heard what he said.

Angel narrowed his eyes. "You don't need them!" he rumbled. Spike only raised an eyebrow. "Is that so?"

Angel held him even closer. "Yes, you have me," he said before kissing him soundly in front of the others not caring who saw before picking up the lighter vampire and quickly climbing the stairs three steps at a time.

The lobby was quite for a while as Willow and Anya helped Giles to sit comfortably on the couch before the later taking place by his side holding his hand.

Cordelia cleared her throat. "Okay, how many of you want to go out and kick some lawyer ass for what they did to Spike?!" Cordelia, like the others, was shocked to see the dreadful condition Spike was in. Not surprisingly, everyone raised his or her hand.

Gunn nodded holding on to his girlfriend's shoulder. "Yeah, I really wanted to bring my big guns when I saw the state he was in, you didn't lie when you said he was in bad shape, man," he said addressing the guardian.

Xander nodded. "Hey Gunn, wanted to ask ya something. What's that gun for?" he pointed at the small gun in the tall man's hand.

Gunn raised it for all to see. "Oh, this? It has tranquilizer darts, precaution if Angel turns dark for being 'unhappy'." Xander smiled he knew he liked this man for a reason.

"Um survey. who thought that even though Spike was evilly beaten up that gay kiss with Angel was WAY hotter than the one with Xander?" Dawn raised her hand.

This time everyone's hand but Xander's were up.

~~~*~~~

Angel carefully placed Spike on their bed before closing the door. He rushed to the bathroom and came out several minutes later carrying a bowl filled with warm water and two towels draped over his arm with a first aid kit in the other.

Spike observed silently as his sire supported him against the pillows. Cool fingers grazed over his face; over the slowly fading wound of the cigarette burn Spike was sure was still there, he could still feel it. He shuddered when Angel's hand ghosted over it before a warm cloth wiped away the grime and the ash. He wasn't surprised to feel a cool tongue lapping the few blood drops that escaped. This particular wound should've healed a while ago if it weren't for lack of blood and more to Carl using his face as an ash tray all the time. Another of his experiments; 'do vampires scar when you repeatedly burn them?' For Spike's sake, luckily they do not.  Especially if treated with vampire saliva like Angel was doing now.

Angel easily pricked his tongue - since he could taste the bastard who did this to Spike on his face - with his fangs that were itching for revenge. He lapped over the wound and let the blood clot over it. The other bruises covering the face would heal naturally. He then started to open Spike's duster.

"Hey! You still have your duster." Angel exclaimed. He was sure that after being captured, the beloved duster would be lost, but there it was. Could he hope that the bastards hadn't touched his boy's body? He could have if it weren't for his acute sense of smell that could whiff more than he wanted right now.

"Yeah!" Spike said excitedly. "He's a right bloke!"

Angel was intrigued even though he continued removing the duster and the worn clothes underneath.

"He who?"

"Eth. um no one." Spike tried the lame escape.

"Wil don't lie to me!" Angel growled although playfully.

Spike smiled tenderly. "Never could." That earned him a soft kiss on the lips.

"Who?"

"The bloke's name was Ethan." Spike felt a little guilty for letting his new friend's secret out.

"Ethan. Ethan Rayne?"

"Yep, in his human flesh."

"Huh well that explains Giles' reaction." Angel said washing grime off Spike's exposed chest winching when the blond did. "Bastards," he whispered, "they are as good as dead."

Spike's eyes shot open after he closed them tightly because of the pain. "You're going to kill them? But they're not worth it, just lowly minions to the gods of law," he said the last trying to ease the situation.

Angel granted him a small smile his hand wavering from touching the healing sore on his angular face. "Wil, it's Angelus you're talking with or someone with Angelus in him. I know how to torment someone, to tease, to scar mentally and physically the little fuck who did this does it not only for a living, it's his art, his hobby." He smirked a very Angelus smile, "And you know he will do it again, I must stop the evil man. It's the right thing to do."

Spike looked at him straight in the eye before cracking a smile. "Fine but I'm coming with."

"I don't want you to."

Spike cut his worried speech. "Whole vamp here, mate. One thing I got out of that bleedin' bitch is the chip."

Angel's eyes turned gold. "That pain!" he said remembering.

Spike frowned before gasping, "You let the connection open; you used the link!"

Angel started stroking the now clean flesh of Spike's chest, testing the marks and finding them healing nicely. He raised an eyebrow.

"Ethan is good at healing spells, though he couldn't do any on my face coz they'd know. Now tell me why you risked your life by keeping the bleeding blood link open?!"

Angel started sniffing at his neck feeling satisfied for cleaning most of the other men's scent off his childe, that action though caused Spike to feel uncomfortable, and not in a bad way.

"Angel."

"I needed to know. if I lost you. I would've surely died with you, if not I would've killed myself," he said simply licking a path from Spike's collarbone to his ear nibbling there and causing the younger vampire to moan in appreciation.

"I'm in his debt," Angel whispered in his ear.

Spike whimpered, "Huh who?"

"Rayne."

"Oh good," Spike said moaning Angel didn't know if it was do to what he was doing to Spike's nipples of because of what he had said, he guessed perhaps both. He raised one free hand and nicked a vain in his wrist before placing it in front of Spike's panting lips.

"Drink," he ordered. Spike complied without hesitation, sucking on the wound and at the same time letting his tongue skim over the open vein causing Angel to groan with pleasure. During this Spike never stopped drinking except when Angel withdrew to get himself some more blood from the small fridge. He quickly downed three mugs before jumping back into position behind Spike and opening the wrist again. Angel ran his fingers over Spike's lean, muscular stomach. Spike couldn't suppress the deep moan that came from the back of his throat even through feeding.

  During this, Angel did not miss that Spike hadn't bit into him not even once. Biting was a favorable game between them, they were still vampires after all. Ever since Angel had declared Spike as his equal everything was fare game, and that meant everything, even dominating his sire. It was not hard for Angel to guess the reason to why Spike didn't bite; for Angelus did this once to his favored childe once upon a request from his own sire, Darla. There wasn't much that Angelus regretted but that was one of them.

"He will die slowly," Angel or more likely this time Angelus promised his childe, Spike could only reply with a nod before sucking hard causing the older vampire's attention to focus on important things, like what was poking Spike in the back.

Spike ran his own fingers across the other vampire's naked chest, receiving a deep moan in reply. Now that was something Spike really liked. He hooked his fingers around his black jeans and began to pull them off. Angel stopped him. Spike pouted amazingly still suckling from his sire's arm. Angel took them off for him, along with his own pants as well.

Angel slipped his hand over Spike's aching member stroking along with his own gentle trusts against his back. He pulled hard once more, distracting the younger vampire as he bit him on the neck causing him to let go of the wrist gasping for unneeded air as his orgasm crashed over him. Angel knew that biting Spike at this point, especially when he was this weak, would cause him this quick release. Spike's contractions stopped as he fell onto Angel's chest and into deep sleep.

Angel smiled down at the peaceful sight. ~ I know you're going to get really pissed for me using the link and the bite to end it that quick. but you know as well as I do that you wouldn't have slept any other way ~ He gently kissed the bleached head. He then completely washed the lower parts of Spike's body, with a new warm wet cloth, wincing as he saw the residual burns from the holy water.

Angel knew that no matter what he will always be in debt to Ethan Rayne not only for saving his boy but easing his pain as well. Angel was not a fool; he knew by now that the one who originally took Spike from him was the wizard. However, he did rectify it by rescuing him. For some this might seem balanced but not for a man, a two-hundred-year old vampire, who knew evil, knew what it was capable of and of its sacrifices. This human not only rescued what was his but it seemed like he was taking care of him even in capture among the enemy and that is why Angel is thankful for that man.

He finished his cleaning and dried his childe off realizing that a bath is still needed but at least most of the dirt and the torturers scent were wiped away, but that would do for now. He emptied the bowl in the bathroom before relieving himself from his and Spike's earlier emissions in the shower. Finally warm and clean he turned off the lights and stepped into bed with his beloved again after too many days. Tears slip out of his eyes as Angel held him close, drinking in his scent and vowing never to let go.

******

Angel blinked awake, he was sure he heard something.

Knock. Knock. Knock.

Soft, it wasn't much of knocking as taping. Angel groaned looking at the night clock. The numbers 11:32 glowed in the darkness of the room. Who would dare wake him this early? His murderous thoughts were put to a hold when he felt something rub against his chest. He looked down. Spike was practically draped all over his large torso; head snuggled on his chest, still in deep sleep.

"The little bit is persistent. won't go 'til you let her in."

~ Well maybe not in deep sleep ~

Azure eyes opened looking up at his face shining with delight.

"'Mornin', luv."

Angel smiled down at the sleepy greeting; lowering his head, he kissed the soft lips with a loud smack. "Good morning, my love."

Spike's eyes softened and if possible it shined with even more love than before, this all was accompanied with heated lust. Angel's chest rumbled at the sight Spike made. Rumpled blond bed hair, a once more perfect face the scar on the left eyebrow only serving to add a sexy heat to the over all look and to complete its stormy blue eyes looking at nothing other than him.   With a yank, Angel had the smaller vampire straddling his chest, the slender legs on either side of his body.

Angel grinned mischievously ~ oh look Spike had a not so little gift for me ~ He lowered his head, mouth watering at the erotic sight anticipating the addicting taste, when . a stronger knock was heard.

Spike's eyes twinkled with mirth, "Told ya she was persistent."

Angel settled with a glare before getting out of the bed and roughly putting his sweats on. On an after thought, he turned back to the large bed, took hold of Spike's hair, rumpling it even more and crashed their lips together in a heated kiss. He drew back, glad to see the returned glazed over look in the blonde's eyes and the obvious reaction pointing north. Angel nodded in satisfaction then covered the overly tempting body of lean muscles and hard length. If Dawn wished to interrupt them, then by hell she should know what she interrupted.

The only set back was that his slacks had a very noticeable tent in them now. Therefore, he wore his dark silk robe over it. There was no need to traumatize the kid too much.

"You look good enough to eat, Peaches," the husky mumble came from the bed. Angel smiled widely at the complement. Spike instead frowned as if he remembered something. "Oh, but don't you go along thinking I would forget that you used sex and blood to get me to sleep. Now that was vampire sacrilege, mate!"

Angel lost some of the smile. He almost got out of that clear. "That was for your own good, you know that Spike," he said pleadingly, this was not the time for them to get into one of those arguments again, they just found each other again.

Spike was having fun rattling Angel's chain. He put on his angry face and just waved at him, "Door."

Angel pursed his lips, not wanting Spike to see the smile that showed he was on to this little gag, and opened the door roughly. Dawn was startled as she was raising her hand to knock again.

"Yes?" he asked a little annoyed.

Dawn who was reluctant in the beginning found herself wishing she never came up here in the first place. Angel looked mad about something.

~ I wonder about what? ~ The teenager thought while her eyes drifted pass the massive figure and landed on Spike ~ Ooh ~

She lowered her eyes. "Um I wanted to speak to Spike."

"Isn't it too early to be speaking with a vampire?"

Dawn looked at him strangely. "It's nearly midnight, Angel."

"Huh?"

"You guys were asleep for two days straight. If Xander and Lorne hadn't told us you guys needed that much rest, Cordelia would've broken your door open yesterday."

Angel blinked. "Oh." He hadn't realized that he was that tired. Now that he thought about it, he hadn't slept since Spike was abducted and what ever Spike went through he was there for the ride.

"So can I talk to him?"

~ NO! ~ An angry growl sounded in Angel's head. He frowned wondering why not. ~ Coz she would only hurt our childe again, like she did the first time. ~ That was true but Dawn was here to apologize.

~ You do that and he might not talk to you like he did when he first came here! I won't allow you to let that mini-slayer bitch to enter my room! ~ Angel's eyes turned cold. He was not going to let the demon talk to him that way. He smiled down at Dawn who was watching him for an answer.

He moved out of the way. "Come in Dawn."

Dawn didn't hesitate a second she quickly entered. She got view of Spike clearly from the inside when Angel turned on the lights. She felt herself let go of a breath she didn't know she was holding when she took notice of his healed body.

Angel noticed the girl's reaction and nodded to himself. He then turned to look at Spike and was surprised that he had a shocked look on his face as if Spike wasn't expecting his sire to let the girl in. The pain in Spike's eyes when he looked at Dawn caused Angel to grimace.

~ See! She's causing him pain, again! Told you so! ~

Was his demon right? Did he make a mistake of allowing the girl to enter? Angel was about to ask Dawn to leave when she threw herself at Spike.

She had her arms around his neck and her head in the crock of his throat. She was crying a few hiccupped words escaped her. "S-so sorry . afraid for you . afraid I couldn't say h-how s-s-sorry I was ." Spike had his arm away from his sides when she jumped on him; they were barely hovering over her back. When he registered what she said, he allowed himself to hold her. That action only served her weeping to increase. He let his head rest on top of hers taking in the smell of her that he was denied for months.

Angel somehow felt out of the loop so he quietly let himself out to give the two some privacy.

~ But not too much! ~

He relaxed against the wall out side and let his super hearing eavesdrop on the two inside. He didn't fool himself into thinking Spike hadn't known he was there. Nonetheless, he had promised, at least himself, that he was not letting his childe go ever again.

Angel could hear the muffled 'sorry' and 'can you ever forgive me?' and a one 'I was such a JD!' but he wasn't sure he heard that one right, it didn't make any sense to him at least. He strained his ears when Spike started talking. Even though Angel was on the other side of the door and Spike was talking in a hushed tone, the older vampire could discern the raw sound of his voice, indicating either that he was crying as well, or holding the tears at bay with little success.

Spike told her that it did hurt, he won't lie about that, but what they said and did to him had stung deeply. It was worse because he had seen them, the Scoobies, as his own, especially Dawn. She was like the little sister he never had.

She went on about how she always thought of Spike that way too, well almost always, she saw him as her cool big brother whilst Xander was the cute one.

"Oi! I'm cute!"

That exclamation hadn't needed highly sensitive vampire ears to pick it up, it was loud enough to pass the not so thick walls.

Dawn giggled which was an impressive thing to do while sniffling.

"I'm sorry," she repeated for like the thousands time.

"I know," he replied to her an equal amount.

"Will you ever be able to forgive me?" she asked in an equally pitiful and hopeful tone.

Angel pressed his ear to the door even though he was using his vampire hearing, not wanting to miss Spike's answer.

"No."

"What?" The young girl sounded teary.

~ What?! ~ Angel couldn't believe what he had heard. He actually thought that Spike never blamed Dawn for what happened.

"I never blamed you for what happened," Spike said.

Angel breathed a sigh of relief, glad he knew his lover so well. From then on, he stood with his back to the wall. He heard them talk about Buffy's death. He noticed that no one corrected the other when he or she took blame for Buffy's death. For he believed that deep down the two knew they will always have mixed feelings towards that, he knew he had.

Then they transgressed to Xander's death and this time Dawn full on told Spike it was not his fault, she told him that her and the others reaction to Xander's death was just a left over feeling when Buffy died. They all needed to let out on some else. Unfortunately, that someone happened to be him.

Dawn told Spike that the others had elected her to ask him for forgiveness. Spike told her indeed he was angry but more hurt about what they said and did. He will forgive them.

"Could you tell them that? I don't think they'd believe me if I did."

Spike smiled then nodded. He said he didn't know what he would've done in their place, actually he did. But that wasn't for young Nibblets to hear. He will see them and soon, hopefully, all will be settled.   Angel smiled proudly. That was his childe in there being so wise. His. His lover, his mate. He stepped away from the door when he heard Spike asking Dawn to leave so he could take a quick shower and dress since he couldn't go down in his birthsuit, though he knew some ladies wouldn't mind, clearly indicating that Dawn was one of the ladies, which not to Angel's surprise she didn't deny.   The dark vampire quickly snuck into Spike's old room when Dawn reluctantly stepped out of the door, but only until Spike was done. Then the blonde and the young girl headed to the stairs.   Angel waited several seconds before following. He knew he couldn't fool Spike but the others didn't need to know. He mused in his head what anyone would think when they saw him - Spike's lovesick puppy. Upon that thought instead of anger rising in case of Angelus, he felt a flutter in his undead heart. He actually belonged to someone! Not that he hadn't before, but that was a whole different story.  He wondered if Spike knew that. He shrugged descending the stairs. Well that would be rectified as soon as the Sunnydale people left.

******

At first Spike was as nervous as hell, especially when he reached the lobby with Dawn by his side. The hall went silence with everyone's attention focused on him. He looked at the faces of the people he lived along side for two years, the people he considered his family and couldn't help but shudder a little. He knew Angel was right behind him, which gave him comfort and strength.   Angel, for his part, was throwing glares at Anya and Giles identifying them as the people who caused Spike the most pain, other than Dawn of course, but she and Spike already made up so he couldn't do that with her.   Anya and Willow ran towards him with guilty looks in their eyes and Willow babbled like usual with Anya trying to find the best words human wise to present their apologies. It was strange that after three years of being a human, Anya was still learning how to be one.

Tara approached him all shy and face downcast. She apologized to him sincerely even though she didn't need to. She didn't say a single hurtful word to him that day. He smiled at the women. He looked at the assembling Scoobies and just like that, he told them all is well, as long as they don't do that ever again that is! He gave all of them hearty hugs and a firm handshake to a flustered Giles.   At that moment, his eyes locked with the glassy eyes of his favorite girl. He smiled warmly as he grabbed the thin girl into a tight embrace. "How are you?" Fred murmured softly.

"I'm alright, pet."

Afterwards, he immediately scanned the room and noted that everyone were here except for Lorne and Xander. He guessed that Lorne must be at Caritas, but why wasn't Xander here?

He looked down at Fred and asked. "Why isn't Xander here, Fred?"

She smiled noticing the angry tone in his voice. "Its okay, Spike, Xander didn't show, not because no one wants him to, but because everyone needed to talk without pressure of the reason of 'the talk' standing there." Spike nodded and his features eased. He knew that Xander was observing the proceedings intently wherever he was.

Fred smiled knowing how Spike felt about who would ever mistreat Xander. She also got to like the young guardian and considered him one of her close friends. She hoped that Lorne would too, one day.

Suddenly she heard Spike say, "Princess?" The bleached vampire looked towards Cordelia who was avoiding him but strangely glaring death rays at Angel. "Is something wrong?"

"Delia." Gunn warned but Cordelia was already loose.

"I can't let you go through that Spike!"

Spike blinked. "Huh?"

She approached him determinedly but suddenly got into Angel's face who was right behind him, she pushed a finger to the dark vampire's face. "*He* cheated on you!"

Spike's eyes widened. "What? What are you talking about?" He turned to look at a flustered Angel. Everyone else was just watching waiting to see what happened.

Angel spluttered, "I did not!" He looked Spike in the eyes. "Really!"

"Oh if that's true then why didn't you tell him?! You must've secretly liked it or you would've told him what happened!"

"I did NOT like it!"

"Then why didn't you say anything about it, huh?" she asked him suspiciously.

"Coz I didn't want to be reminded of it, that's why! I want to forget he ever." Angel only grimaced at the thought.

"Stop right there! What the bleedin 'ell are you two yammerin' about? What did you do?" Spike asked looking his lover in the eye pleading that he tells him that he was faithful to him.

Angel ignoring the spectators held Spike's hands. "Believe me Spike, I swear to you upon our blood, that he kissed me and the only reason I didn't push him away was coz I was surprised, I would never cheat on you, I hate him, and I didn't tell you coz I was guilty and I didn't want to bother you after what happened." Angel went on rambling, a treat that surprised everyone seeing it was coming out of the usually terse vampire.

Spike only watched him as he begged for forgiveness with suspicion marring his features while inside he was grinning realizing what must've happened.

~ Bloody glad Peaches is too distracted to read the bond or this wouldn't be as much fun! ~

Fred felt pity for the vampire so she stepped in. "Really Spike, Xander just surprised us all when he suddenly jumped Angel and kissed him on the lips, not that it wasn't a pretty sight not prettier than you to of course but close, and Angel was shocked and just stood there his mouth wide open he was frozen for a while there and couldn't yell at Xander for kissing him but I knew he wanted to but was too shocked to, but he didn't need to coz Lorne gave Xander an ear full. Oh also, Xander seemed angry about something but I don't know why since he was the one that kissed Angel not the other way 'round!"

Everyone just gaped at the thin brunette who only pushed back her hair like nothing happened. Wesley patted her hand, wanting to make sure she was still conscious after talking all that long without a breath of air. Willow on the other hand preened and looked at her girlfriend with a wide grin; she and Xander weren't the only ones in the insane babble club! Spike just raised an eyebrow and asked, "So Lorne went barmy on poor Xan? Where is Red-eyes anyway?"

Fred nodded, "Yeah, he was like you're kissing demons don't come after me! But he had to leave coz Willy called and said there was a little trouble at the club that needed looking at. He did come when he found out you came back but . um . well you and Angel were locked up in your room and . well he said it was wise to let sleeping vampire lovers lie or somethin'"

Spike nodded understanding. Lorne must've put all efforts in looking for him and forgotten about his club and Spike knew well enough that Willy had to attract trouble especially with the demon, kind the Snitch just begged to be beaten up! Lorne couldn't leave him alone to man the place for long. On the other hand, it could've been that someone needed a reading and Spike knew that his friend would never send anyone that needed help away. It was just that the vampire missed his friend; he just told himself if Lorne couldn't tear himself out of the bar he could pay him a visit.

Then the leather-clad vampire remembered what was being discussed and that caused him to crack a smile. That later turned into a full-blown laugh.

"Didn't.. think.. that he.. would actually.. do it," he let out between chuckles.

"Who do what?" Angel asked inquiring.

Spike just looked at him and cracked up again but was able to let a few words out that explain everything, "Xan. I said. then he did. Christ! What would've I give to see the look on both your faces!!"

Understanding began to form in Angel's eyes but not before everyone in the room was chuckling along with the young vampire, the whole situation proved very amusing.

"Oi Xander!"

Xander popped out glaring at Spike. He obviously had been watching the proceedings from his look out up there wherever it was.

"I hope you're enjoying yourself, Blondie!"

"Immensely, though I wouldn't mind an encore since I seemed to have missed the show." Spike asked leering.

Xander and Angel both had an opinion about that idea as they said in union, "NO!"

Spike pouted, "You two are no fun!"

"Spike you made me kiss Angel for you! ON THE LIPS! That wasn't a stroll in the park you know!" Xander thought about that for a moment, "Well maybe for you if it was a sunny park."

Spike only stuck his tongue out at that. Angel's eyes turned cold, he wasn't very happy with Spike pointing his tongue at Xander. Xander didn't deserve Spike tongue. Angel wanted Spike tongue.

~ Okay. why is everybody looking at me? ~ Angel noticed several amused looks being cast his way. He shifted on his feet. He was glad his shirt was not tucked. Thoughts of Spike's talented tongue and mouth had a very evident affect on him reminding him what he and Spike were initiating when Dawn interrupted. He groaned and Spike caught his eye and smiled. His boy obviously smelled how much he wanted him right now.

Angel looked back at Spike something shining in his eye. Spike was a bad boy. He made him endure three seconds of Xander kissing him on the lips. Not that the warm feel wasn't nice but..

Spike raised an eyebrow; he obviously caught that thought! Now Spike was making fun of him! Another mistaken that needs to be rectified. Not to mention tempting Angel by sticking out his tongue knowing how much that affected him and then leaving him here standing with no way of relieving himself. His childe needed to be disciplined. Spike's eyes darkened with lust. Oh yes, William was always an eager student ready to please his master. Angel frowned but he wasn't Angelus. They might play Sire/Childe but that was to reestablish their bond, but they were mates now, equal. He would never hurt Spike. He loved him more than that sadistic vampire ever could.

~ especially after what Wil' went through. ~ Angel's eyes now darkened for a different reason. Who ever had laid a hand on Spike in pain was going to be killed, slowly. Spike smiled and nodded. Soon all would be rectified. Angel couldn't express how much he loved their bond, this mind/feeling link is so freeing! He and Spike needed to re-feed from each other soon. It had gotten weaker in the last few days until he could barely read Spike anymore.

Angel couldn't wait until the Scoobies left! Come to think of it, he had heard Giles and Wesley talking in the distance a second ago while he and Spike fazed out about them leaving so Wesley and he needed to finish quickly.

"What are you two Watcher types whispering on about!?" Xander asked exasperated. He had been watching those two for a while now and wanted it out in the open already.

"Oh yes, very well," Giles coughed and he and Wesley did a duet as they cleaned their glasses at the same time.

"Jeez it has to be important if the two of you are doing that!" Cordelia said bored the whole 'funny' that happened minutes ago wearing off.

"Well as you all must know Rupert and I have been researching something a while now. and it seems that we have finally found what we were looking for." Wesley said nodding to his colleague.

"What is it Giles? Is this what you have been researching a few months ago but wouldn't let any of us help you?" Willow asked eagerly for months Giles had been pouring over books never letting them in on what he was looking for.

"Yes Willow it is," Giles nodded. "Wesley would you like to explain?"

His fellow English man shook his head. "It's yours Rupert."

Giles sighed and replaced his glasses. "Since we would be leaving tonight I thought that the best time to explain was now."

He turned to Spike. "Do you remember a few months back in S-Sunnydale. um with the sect of Thalog?"

Spike narrowed his eyes. "Yeah those three anti-evil-kill-all-that-is-soulless-wizards who tried to open the Hellmouth," he said rolling his eyes; everybody wanted to open the Hellmouth!

"Yes, and yet you touched one and survived!" Giles said raising his finger.

"But Giles? Wasn't that because the kill-all-that-is-soulless spell ended when the two other wizards died?" Willow asked remembering what Giles and Spike told them after they returned from the old high school.

"Yes, well I'm afraid we lied. The spell had been individually cast so it was still working when Spike pushed the third into the Hellmouth. We didn't tell you for it didn't seem of importance to worry you."

"Spike could've died!!" Dawn gasped then punched the vampire in the shoulder. Xander smiled that was exactly how he felt when he found out.

"Oi that hurt!" Spike said pouting. Angel just rolled his eyes but held the other vampire close to his chest. He almost lost him even before he got him back. He listened carefully to Giles.

"And I have been researching ever since . well on the uhem exception of when Xander." Giles felt himself blush and looked at Spike wanting to say sorry again but the vampire was busy nipping at Angel's ear and causing Giles to blush even more. Spike noticed but waved him off telling him to continue. "Yes, well then Wesley contacted me on some affair and we started talking about it and he told me about Spike's soul. well that gets us here."

Spike flinched when he heard the word 'soul'. He could feel the sickness gnaw at him. He wasn't soulless when he killed thousands upon thousands. His soul meant nothing.

Angel noticed the reaction and held tighter. He wouldn't let Spike beat himself over it. They had to listen to the watcher there was something important he knew it.

"Wesley told me about how Spike, or William at the time, was turned. And we figured as such that that was the reason his soul remained intact. But after further research it was proven otherwise. The soul of William indeed remained but not in control. Since there wasn't a circular blood exchange in the turning from Drusilla as she only drained William and Angelus finished the job, the soul was not cast out. In fact, it lingered in the body being possessed by the demon but held in its confines. However, some of the soul's aspects seeped out as it would explain Spike passion and ability to love.

"When Spike touched the wizard his demon unconsciously made a choice to survive and the only way the counter the spell is by having a soul so it released the soul completely. You remember the pain you felt Spike after you came in contact with the wizard?"

Spike still dazed from the revelation nodded.

"Well that happened because your soul was bound to you, it over lapped the demon and took its place in control." Wesley interjected laying out the information, he deducted, proudly.

Spike blinked. "But I didn't feel any different, well other than the nightmare recollections that is."

"That was because your soul and your demon had come to an unsounded truce after the chip." Giles said excitedly. He wanted to make up, even a little, to Spike after what happened and he hoped this would do the trick.

Everyone's attention was centered on Spike wondering how the blond would take it. Spike locked eyes with Xander. "You knew about this?"

Xander shrugged. "Told you before I didn't know about the soul, but I did find out later hearing Giles and Wes talking."

Spike nodded satisfied. He then turned to Angel and kissed him soundly on the mouth. The kiss lasted for nearly a minute. Only then did Spike pull away. "Gonna smoke out side," he said suddenly then was out the door.

Several mouths opened to ask but Angel only shook his head with a smile. "He's happy guys, really. Just needs some time to process it is all."

Everyone sighed in relief. Giles turned as Anya came up to him and kissed him on the cheek. He told his charges to get ready; they'd be leaving in half an hour. As everyone was detracted in talking and preparing he slipped out unnoticed.

******

Spike stood out side gazing at the garden in the night. He couldn't believe how much weight had been lift off. He felt now more alive then ever. He took another deep drag of his cigarette.

~ Well not really alive or this fag would've killed me already ~   "Mind if I join you?" A cultured voice asked reminding him of his own more than a century ago.   Spike waved his hand in welcome. Giles sat down beside him and accepted the cigarette that the vampire offered him. He allowed Spike to light it for him before taking a deep breath of smoke filled air.

Giles sighed in contentment as he let it out. He gazed at the red tip in deep concentration. "How is he?"

Spike leaned his head to the side as if gazing at Giles' face the right way would explain that question. "Shouldn't you be asking him that? Seems you should know where to find 'em." Apparently it did.

Giles turned his grey eyes to Spike's blue ones reminding him of another. He took another hesitant drag. "There wasn't enough time for idle chit chat Spike," he replied puffing out smoke with each word.

"It seemed, at least to my end, you talked quite a bit." Spike looked at him in a way that dared to be told other wise.

Giles sighed letting go of the act, "Fine, you are right. Now could you please tell me?"

"He was fine, considering."

"Considering what?!"

Spike said in a blunt tone, "Considering his once *lover* gave him to a loony organization that tortured him for three years, that's what."

"What!!?" Giles was shocked. "He was there for three years! I predicted he'd escape with in less than three days!"

Spike gave him a hard look, "Not everyone is as bloody lucky as me, mate. They knew what they were doing."

Giles looked twenty years older, suddenly very tired. He rested his head in his hands. "What did they do to him?" he said not really wanting to know but knowing he had to.

Spike shrugged. "Didn't tell me, didn't ask. But it seemed bad enough to have 'rehabilitated' him."

That caused the old man to raise his head. "Huh?"

"Well from what I got from him he'd given up on his evil ways, seemed too much trouble. He intends to spend the rest of his better years in merry ol' England and do magic as a pastime not for stirring up trouble."

"Is that why."

"He 'elped me? Do' know, maybe. Something of we've both been in the same hell and something of owing it up to dear ol' Ripper for all the anguish he caused 'im."

"He said that?"

"More or less."

"But then why did he leave why not tell me.?" Giles was desperate for an answer.

"It seemed he saw you with your new bird and thinks she's good for ya," Spike smiled tenderly, "He was a gentle man don't think I would do the same in his place."

Giles gave out a small sad smile. He took another drag of his cigarette before putting it off as he stood up. "Well better head back in before Anya begins to think I'm having my wicked way with you and gets angry with me that I didn't ask her to join."

Spike chuckled at that as the old human entered back into the lit hotel. He leaned back against the hard chest and sighed contently. He gave Angel a drag of his cigarette.

Angel let out the grey smoke then took a deep breath relishing Spike's sent before asking amused, "So you won't be a gentleman if I find someone else?"

Spike gave out a possessive growl before turning to look in Angels' mirth filled eyes, "You bet I won't. I'd kill your new fancy before seducing you back to me," he said with a seductive tone.

"No need for all that though, coz you're my only fancy," Angel said before capturing Spike's lips with his own and bucking against him with a deep moan. He pulled back reluctantly and looked into lust-filled eyes, "Let's say our good byes then I have something I want to discuss with you in our room, preferably our bed." His eyes flashed yellow for a brief second. "You're mine and you're not going anywhere."

Spike's eyes flashed in return his fears cleared. "Yours. and your mine?" he asked a bit hesitant.

Angel's eyes darkened even more if possible. "Yours. *Never* doubt that!"

Spike closed his eyes trying to regain control. He jumped up, hauling Angel with him. "C'mon then, the faster they leave the faster you tell me how much you *didn't* like Xander kissing you."

Angel groaned at the memory letting his laughing lover dragging him inside.

******

Three hours gone after the Scoobies left. Spike still remembered when Dawn asked him if he wanted to come with them even though she knew his answer. Angel had let out a low growl that caused him to chuckle but inside, he was very happy. It warmed his heart that Dawn had asked. He told her she could visit whenever she likes.

The Scoobies were on a rush because the Hellmouth needed someone there and they had been gone for nearly a weak but thankfully nothing happened or Clem would have called. He thought about calling Clem and seeing if he won any kittens after he left. He sighed dreamily remembering the old days when a thought occurred to him.

Consequently, Cordelia, Gunn, Fred, Wesley and Spike stood gathered around the reception desk playing cards. However, not for kittens against Spike's bitter judgment. Angel stood back, hands crossed over his chest and an angry scowl on his face. He wanted to go upstairs for unfinished business but his *partner* was busy playing cards.

~ Could anyone feel some sympathy for the vampire that spent a hundred years without getting any? N-O! Now my lover had chose to play a card game over hot naked vampire sex! And, and.. HE's here! ~

Xander was suspended cross-legged in genie style as Cordelia called it. He was circling around the players looking at their cards then standing behind Spike whispering in his ear for Spike's cheating delight. Cordelia glared at the two, "I'm not blind you know."

They raised their innocent eyes, "What?" Even Angel rolled his eyes at that. The other players didn't really care about the cheating they were glad that Spike and Xander were loosening up after the earlier events.   "Don't you point those eyes at me, misters. Stop helping Spike cheat GG!"

"Don't call me that!"

Cordelia smirked. "Well, if you don't stop. I'm gonna call Willow and tell her about that name."

Xander gasped. "You wouldn't dare!"

"Try me."

"But I'm helping a friend."

"Oh helping a friend? Helping a friend is when I tell Spike to get the hell upstairs with Angel right now!"

Angel grinned widely. "Oh, thanks Cordy."

"Hey, what are friends for."

"If you ask me, they're for knocking you up and leaving you high and dry."

Eyes turned towards the entrance. The people who were standing around the desk turned around quickly.

There she stood..

..A very pregnant Darla.

~Part: 27~

Darla stood at the top of the landing that lead down into the hotel lobby. She smirked looking at Angel. "Hello, lover, long time no see," she said idly.

"Darla," Angel uttered.

"Darla!" Wesley exclaimed.

"Darla?" Cordelia muttered.

"Who's Darla?" Fred whispered the question to Xander who was standing next to her.

"Angel's old flame from way back," Xander whispered back.

"Ooh, so that's Buffy?" Fred exclaimed excitedly.

Xander frowned looking down at her wondering if she missed the whole Darla name being calling thing. "What?! No, Buffy's dead."

"But isn't she the one that died and you brought back?"

"Yeah, but this one is not that one. This one is the other one that died and came back to life then got turned by Drusilla into a vampire again as you can see. She's Angel's sire not his ex-girlfriend who happened to be a slayer," he explained.

Fred shook her head, feeling woozy from all the blurred information. She turned to Gunn and asked, "Y'all have a chart or somethin' right?"

"In the files, I'll get it for you later," he whispered to her. She nodded grateful and turned back to the conflict.

The only one who hadn't spoke since the appearance of Darla was Spike. He growled at Darla already in game face swiftly the growl turned to whimper. Spike glared at her thinking this had to be her fault somehow. Spike shook his face and returned to his human face though still scrunched in some pain. Darla saw him and caught the look.

“Ooh William's here! And had been clipped, again?! And why wasn’t I invited?” she sounded hurt.

Spike only hissed at her.

Darla raised an eyebrow. “Hmm? They seem to have grown quite fast… I bet you’ve been tasting some very strong blood,” she said eyeing Angel displeased.

Angel glared looking back at Darla with defiance. “He’s my mate Darla. He can do as he pleases. You on the other hand cannot!”

Darla scrunched her face in anger. “Don’t dare disrespect me Childe!”

Wesley coughed. “I hate to interrupt but I must disagree on that account. Angel is no longer ‘your Childe’ given that you have been re-turned by Drusilla and she is Angel’s Childe. That means you are his grand-childe and you should offer him respect not the other way round.”

Gunn shook his head and looked at Cordelia. “As I said before the granddaughter turning the grandmother making Angel the grandfather… Jeez such a weird family!”

Fred pushed her glasses up her nose. “I wonder how Spike fits in the chart.” That got them all scratching their heads in thought while the three vampires faced off.

Angel looked Darla over. ~ What the hell happened to her? ~ He thought frantically while trying to keep looking cool. "Well, when did this happen?" he asked eyeing her round stomach then looking up to her face.

Darla came down the steps. "You know *exactly* when it happened." She heard the young brunette woman addressing her Angelus shocked, "Angel … did … you and Darla...?"

"Uh..." Angel didn't know what to say. He had sex with Darla last year but vampires couldn't conceive. It couldn't be his, he was a vampire. For that matter, so was Darla, therefore she couldn't be pregnant. Nodding to himself he looked at Cordelia who was glaring at him waiting for an explanation. "This is impossible," he said confidently waving at the pregnant vampire.

Darla smirked. "Tell me about it … daddy!" Her nose scrunched as she smelled a familiar scent. She turned around and her eyes widened with amusement.

"Oh, isn't that a sweet smell on you, William?" she said walking towards a silent Spike, who didn't make any reaction as the blond-pregnant-vampire approached him. Out of the blue, a dark haired young man stood between the two blonds.

"Stay away from him!" Xander warned the pregnant vampire.

Darla raised an amused eyebrow. "And he's got himself a guardian angel!"

Xander aimed a finger at her face. "That's a GG for you, missy!" Then quickly he grimaced. "What the hell am I saying?!"

"You slept with her?" Darla heard the quiet question Cordelia asked Angel.

Angel felt the chill rushing through him as he looked into Cordelia's raging eyes. "Vampires can't have children. Wesley?" He turned to his best friend looking for help.

"Uh, no, he's right. It's not possible," Wesley answered, looking at Darla's stomach with disbelief.

"That's not what I asked," Cordelia said aggravated.

Darla walked over to Angelus, her hands on her large belly. "You know we can't. I know we can't. But … we did," she said pointing at her large lump.

Fred whispered to her boyfriend, "I wonder if this might not be that bad thing we were expecting." She was referring to the Nyazian Prophecies that he and Gunn had retrieved earlier that day. The same prophecy that she and Willow had been helping translate before Spike and Angel came down and the Scoobies returned to Sunnydale. Wesley frowned thinking it over.

Darla looked into her childe's eyes, shaking her head in anger. "What did you do to me?!" she hissed, before hitting Angel across the face. He stumbled back against the weapons cabinet behind him that rattled from the force of the blow.

Spike growled angrily and quickly stood between his lover and the pregnant vampire attempting to protect his lover. Darla chuckled evilly. "You think you can take me, William?"

Spike stood his ground and looked at her with pure hatred.

Angel got up slowly eyeing Darla with bloodshot brown eyes that were threatened by gold. He stepped forward, eyes focusing on his sire.

~ Or is that ex-sire… now grand-childe? God I hate my unlife ~

Spike looked at Angel with worry. "Angel, let me …"

Angel didn't even seem to acknowledge him. "So you wanna fight, is that it?" he roared addressing Darla. Spike looked hurt when Angel ignored him and realized that his lover's entire focus was on the other blonde vampire. He stepped back leaving the elder vampires for their battle.

"Stop that!" Cordelia stepped between Angel and Darla, trying to stop any attempt of a fight. Angel spoke to her while his eyes are still glued to Darla, "It's alright, Cordy. I'm okay. She can't hurt me."

Cordelia shot him with angry eyes. "You'll hurt her! Haven't you done enough?" Angel stared at her perplexed.

She turned to Darla. "Here, sit down. You should get off your feet." She led the pregnant vampire over to the round gray settee then looked back at the others. "Can we get her some water?" she asked exasperated.

Fred hurried to get some. Xander whispered into Spike's ear, "Whoa, what's up with Cordy?" Spike didn't reply. The brunette guardian noticed Spike's attention was locked on Angel who was arguing with Cordelia.

"Cordy that's *Darla*. Maybe you don't want to..."

Cordelia cut him off and threw back, "Did you or did you not? Look me in the eye and say that you would *never* do a thing like this with her?"

Darla leaned her head to look over Cordelia at Angel. "Oh, he lied? What a surprise," she spoke with irony lacing her voice.

Spike's hand tightened into a fist. He whispered to Xander, "C'mon, let's go upstairs." Xander followed his friend to his room with out a word but throwing a disapproving glance at Angel who didn't even notice his childe's displeasure.

Fred came to the lobby, carrying a glass of water. She grinned at Darla and said cheerily, "Hi. I'm Fred. Is water okay, or did you want some blood?"

Darla gave her an amused look before taking the water. Wesley gently pulled his girlfriend back away from Darla. Fred noticed Spike and Xander going up the stairs. She gave a hesitated look to the situation in front of her before following her friends.

Angel approached the two women in the couch. "Cordy. I'm sorry… I lied. It was just … it was a very dark time," he said trying to justify himself.

"Oh! You used her to make *you* feel better during *your* dark time. Well, that makes it *all* heroic." Cordelia snapped back at him.

"It wasn't like that. It just… happened. It wasn't like I went *evil* or anything, I just..."

"You just went male." Cordelia muttered. She brushed hair out of Darla's face. "Have you been to a doctor?"

Darla gave her a look. "No. But I have been to every shaman and seer in the Western Hemisphere."

"And what did they say?" Wesley asked curiously.

"They don't know what it is. They don't know what it means. Nothing like this has ever happened."

"Maybe it's a hysterical pregnancy," Angel suggested desperately trying to amend his image in front of Cordelia.

Darla looked at him with wildness. "You wanna feel it kick?"

"Does it kick a lot?" Cordelia asked gently.

"Like crazy," Darla said tiredly.

Angel shrugged. "Well, now wouldn't that be the first sign of..." he paused at the look Cordelia gave him."...hysteria?"

"What can we do for you?" The young woman asked Darla gently.

"Well, you can get you little gang of supernatural detectives to find out what the hell is happening to me and how to stop it."

Cordelia said looking at Darla. "Are you gonna take some responsibility here?" When she got no answer she looked at her former boss. "Angel?"

Angel looked at her. "Oh, me? … Of course I am." He turned to Wesley. "Wes, lets get on this right now."

"What do you suggest?" The ex-watcher asked.

"I suggest you use your books and find out what's going on." Wesley gave him a glare. "What, do I have to think of everything?" Angel said defensively.

Wesley picked up a book from the counter and opened it. His eyebrows rose with fake enthusiasm. "Oh, here it is."

Darla straightened up in her seat and Angel walked eagerly over to his best friend. Wesley said with his eyes on the book. "It says 'I have absolutely no idea what's going on.'"

Angel glared at him and Darla threw her head back at the couch with disappointment.

Cordelia heaved a sigh. "Well, 'til you find a clue lets get her to one of the bedrooms. Gunn, could you please?" She nodded at Darla and Gunn went straight towards his girlfriend to help her take the pregnant woman up the stairs.

******

Fred had a strange feeling as she entered Spike's old room following Spike and Xander. Her vampire friend sat on the edge of his old bed in silence. Xander sat Indian style in the air next to Spike. That was the second time she saw him do that since she met him. Xander always told her that he was the most relaxed he could be this way, but he pretended to sit in the way that people could relate to for their sake. She supposed he didn't notice his way of sitting at this moment or just felt comfortable doing it in front of Spike and herself.

She went to sit next to Spike and the quiet atmosphere the two men created bothered her. She knew that there was something going on with Spike and she could guess some of it. The way this Darla talked to Spike told her there was some unpleasant history between the two. Wesley told her some about The Scourge of Europe that was coming back to her after she left the tension behind her downstairs.

The ex-watcher spoke of how the four members of The Scourge caused terror in the hearts of many and left wastelands in their wake. The leader was Angelus, on his side was Darla even though she was his sire, but no one, not even the Master himself could tame the vampire. Then there was Drusilla, Angelus's insane childe seer whose gift helped them out of more than one predicament. And last came Drusilla's own childe William the Bloody, later known as Spike in relation to his favorite killing instrument. But later they discovered that not only was Drusilla responsible for William's turning but that Angelus was more or less his real sire more than the crazy brunet vampire could ever be.

Fred could vaguely remember the mention of Penn. Angelus's eldest, that left shortly after his turning, arrogantly believing that he was Angelus's prodigy. She recalled what her friends said about how Angel was there for his demise a couple of years ago.

However, the matter at hand was Darla herself. After Angel and Spike sort of got together, she asked Wesley about their history. Not surprisingly there were a lot written about the two vampires' 'relationship'. Angelus' favored childe was William not his replica Penn nor the gifted Drusilla but young William. Even the Watcher's Diaries, who still thought of Angelus as William's grand-sire, were full of how the older vampire pampered the newly reborn vampire. Not only did he take full hand in training him but lavished attention and something else that displeased Darla on the young vampire.

Darla became exceedingly jealous of the young one, which was known even to the watchers. She took every opportunity to humiliate and torture the boy when Angelus wasn't around. Fred shuddered as she remembered a certain part she had read when she wanted to know more about her friends. Darla was so angered upon finding the two males in a passionate embrace that she dragged them out to the courtyard where she knew the cowardly hiding watchers resided taking in every detail they could obtain. She then forced Angelus with her sire bond to torture William and take his means of being a vampire. By that she meant his fangs. She then vocally stated that, "Until your little whore learns that being a vampire has nothing to do with passion and love, he will have to thrive without his means of life". Soon after that the reign of William the Bloody AKA Spike began.

Fred snapped out of her thoughts and glanced up at Xander, who had his arms crossed over his chest silently staring at Spike. She could tell he wanted to know what was going on as much as she did. Alas, the soul wasn't as patient as she was.

"Okay, tell us what's wrong, buddy?" Xander voiced the question briskly.

Fred sighed at his 'gentle' way of asking ~ Men! ~ She thought wryly. She turned to Spike with a soft smile, "What is it, Spike?"

Spike looked at his favorite girl and up at his best friend trusting that he could tell them anything. It was just that he didn't know how to explain it to them.

"Is it because of Darla?" Fred asked him kindly shaking away the bad memory.

Spike sighed. "I think I'm losing Angel."

Xander snorted at that. "Oh please, because of Darla?! That's garbage!"

Spike looked at him angrily. "Why is it bloody garbage?"

"Because Angel loves *you*!" Xander retorted.

Spike looked away shaking his head. "You don't know how it is."

Xander lowered his form so his eyes would meet Spike's. "Look at me." When Spike did, he went on, "You are a beautiful, wonderful and amazing person. There is nothing in Darla that would make Angel choose her over you."

Spike shook his head. "It's not like that."

Xander continued as if he didn't hear Spike. "Besides she's really FAT, you on the other hand are lean and … well muscled …incredibly sexy!" Xander lost track with reality for a second before catching Spike's smirk and Fred's shocked look.

Xander, realizing what he just said, laughed nervously. "Well, you *are*!" And throwing lusty eyes at his distraught friend was supposed to help?! He bit his lips fretfully, his mind cursing, ~ stupid, stupid, stupid! ~

"Why mate, didn't know you thought about me that way." Spike was still smirking.

~ Oh God! ~ Xander was trying to find an excuse and desperately trying as well not to fall in his world renowned nervous babble mood. "Well, a person should speak honesty, I mean a guy could admit that his bud is sexy but it's not that he's interested, right Fred?"

~ Sexy? You could have said handsome or good-looking but nooo you're so screwed up that you had to say SEXY?! ~ He shut his mind quickly looking at Fred for help.

The girl still couldn't bring herself from the shock that enveloped her upon hearing Xander's words.

"Oh, c'mon, you think he is too!" At her blush, Xander sighed with relief.

Spike, noticing Xander's jumpiness, went back to the main subject. "You two don't get it." Both his friends looked at him confused.

Spike sighed. "Angelus and I were close before as both of you must know." The two brunets nodded.

"Yeah well, no matter how Angelus 'liked' me he always put Darla before me. When she beckons he runs no matter what he was or *who* he was… attending to at that time!"

Xander did his equivalent of a blush in his fading in and out thing while Fred merely did the normal thing and turned a pretty pink color.

"What annoyed me the most was that she never called when he was, let's say, with Dru! Nooo, it was only, let's ruin William's fun!" Spike grumbled not noticing that he said his human name.

"But if I ask him for something he would always refuse saying that Darla would disapprove. Bloody 'ell! That bitch just spoiled everything! She would tell him she's bored and would like to play… oh look there's young Wil let's take out his fangs and see him starve! Bloody fucking bitch if it weren't for Dru I would have!"

Xander flinched and his eyes darkened he remembered that night perfectly as he had seen Spike's whole life in becoming his guardian guide. Darla was furious because she found Angelus with William. At that time it was a recurring theme much to Darla's dismay however she let the two have their fun assuming that after her boy had his fun with the new vampire he would return to her. What actually happened was that Angelus preferred William's bed to hers and that night she found Angelus not in his usual way dominantly fucking his new boy but making love to him while William declared his love to his sire. That fueled Darla's anger and that led to William spending three weeks with no fangs on the brink of starvation.

Fred shut her eyes as tears threatened to fall. She had hoped, wished, with everything she had that what she had read were not true, that her close friend had not endured this before and worse at the hand of his beloved.

Spike was so lost in his reverie that he didn't notice how what he had said affected his friends. He continued, "That I handled, I kept telling myself that she's his sire and he had to follow her orders. He kept coming to me in secret, I felt like I was really a whore like Darla always clamed I was but I could never refuse him. Angelus promised me that on his death-day he would make some excuse and then he would take me with him somewhere so we would celebrate."

Spike's tone became wistful, "I had planned everything… it was going to be perfect." He let out a twitchy laugh, "Fuck I should've bloody known better! The bleedin bitch told him that she had the perfect present, said he needed it before we left, I begged him not to go but would he listen? No! He followed her like the demented love sick puppy he was and that was the last I saw of him." Spike's voice cracked at the end.

Fred held Spike's hand and squeezed. "This is all in the past, now Angel loves you."

"But …"

"You know, all the time you were complaining about Angel not trusting you, now you're doing the same thing."

Spike looked at Fred confused. She went on, "Angel had always been jealous of how close you and Xander were but he never doubted you. He always trusted you until you kissed Xander at Caritas."

Xander shifted uncomfortably raising his figure up in the air, trying to stay away from their sight. He hated any mention of that night! It always reminded him that *he* was the reason for the smashing of Spike and Angel's relationship. He was the reason for his friend's misery. When will everyone forget that night?

Fred, not noticing Xander's discomfort, carried on to Spike. "Is it natural for Angel to lose that trust while you doubt him for no reason? You can't suspect Angel because of his history with Darla; you should give him the same trust he had given you before you gave him a reason to do other wise." She smiled openly at him, "It is natural, however, for him to overlook you in circumstances like this… I mean he's going to have a child! This is so huge for him especially that it's his only chance to be a father!"

She nudged Spike on the arm playfully. "You gotta give him some slack, Blue Eyes. With all those blows, he can't think straight."

Spike raised an eyebrow at the nickname. "Starting to snatch words from Red Eyes, I see!" She giggled.

Spike smiled sadly looking at the ground. "You're right, pet. I ignored 'im completely the moment Xander showed up and 'e never complained. Now I'm all broody, heavens help me, because 'is sire made an entrance with a huge tummy that has 'is tot, of course he's gonna give 'er all 'is attention." Spike's mouth twisted with disgust, "Bloody 'ell, I was acting like a selfish school girl!"

They both laughed and Xander watched them with a forced smile. He tried to ignore his dislike of how they were speaking about him as if he weren't in the room.

That when Wesley burst into the room. "You're here?" he exclaimed breathlessly addressing the three figures.

Fred got up concerned. "What is it, Wes?"

"It's Cordelia! Darla attacked her!"

******

Angel laid Darla carefully on the bed. Darla just turned her head to the other side not paying him any attention as if he wasn't even there. Angel sighed and sat on the bed.

"Darla… I know you didn't mean to hurt Cordy it's just that…"

She interrupted him, "It's just that she was infuriating me with her annoying pity!"

Angel shook his head. "It wasn't pity. She understands what you're going through. She'd been through it twice."

Darla actually turned to look at him questioning. Angel fluttered, "Actually it was only the first time that she could relate to your condition the second demon pregnancy was in her head but Wes took care of that."

"So what you're saying is not only is she an ex-cheerleader and a washed out actress but a prefect target for conceiving evil spawn?"

"Darla…" Angel started in a warning tone but stopped when he heard a moan obviously sounding from pain. He watched as Darla held on to her stomach and caressed the mound still releasing a pitiful whimper. Angel could physically feel the guilt start to build. He let it wash over him knowing now that there was no reason what so ever for Darla to pretend or even lie about how this happened. He was responsible and the least he could do was drown in his usual guilt.

However, the over baring guilt hit him harder than he was used to. And suddenly he realized something. He hadn't been that remorseful or saddened for that matter about anything for quite a while now. And he knew who was responsible. A blond blue eyed vampire. Not the one who was lying on the bed with him looking over her, but another vampire, a male vampire, who not only brought light and hope in his life but love as well. The love that he shared with a mate as well as the love he had been getting from his friends, his family, which had intensified tenfold since he had arrived in their lives broken and hurt, needing help. And somehow he was the one that helped them the most.

Angel realized that he could not return to the life he lived before his boy came into his life. He made a promise with himself that he would do whatever he could, no matter how questionable it was, to keep Spike with him. And if that mean that he was being selfish, then so be it!

His intense thoughts were cut by another heart rendering moan. He frowned looking at Darla.

"Does it hurt? Is the baby kicking hard?"

Darla turned her head to glare at him. "Yes it hurts… and yes the baby is almost cracking my ribs from the inside. However, I'm more into the pain of hunger right now!"

Angel winched but held his glare. "Well you didn't need to bite Cordy!"

Darla smirked. "Yeah well, that was mostly to shut her up."

Angel almost rolled his eyes at that, but held strong.

~ Well I can't fault her for acting on impulses that I've had countless times, now can I? ~

Angel looked at the phone on the bedside table. "Maybe I should call Wes. I think he's downstairs researching that prophecy. I'll tell him to send up some blood."

Darla turned to him with a snarl, "What do I look like? You or for that matter your slut William! I don't drink pigs' blood!" She looked at him up and down before continuing, "I would assume what you're giving him to compensate for that… and even though I know how well you can… 'convince' I'd rather *starve* than drink bottled blood. I maybe an anomaly but I'm still an evil vampire!" she spat out.

Angel sighed. "Well, you've gotta feed. I will not be having you snacking on my friends." With that he took off his shirt, raised his arm to his mouth and morphed then bit into his wrist. He then offered Darla the appendage with a tilt of his head.

The blond looked at him with doubt, but the tempting blood that started to seep out of the wound caught her in a trance. A single drop threatened to drop if it weren't for the swift move that Darla took latching onto Angel's arm. She started drinking and lapping the excess blood as if every drop meant life, and perhaps for her it did.

Darla changed into her game face the second the powerful blood touched her tongue. She sunk her fangs into the soft tissue and both vampires suppressed muffled moans. Darla's was muffled due to the fact that she had her fangs buried deep within her former lover’s wrist while Angel was biting his lower lip so hard he was sure it would begin to bleed.

For the dark vampire it had been a while since anyone bit him and given that Darla was the first vampire ever to bite him and had done so for over a century, becoming a pro at manipulating Angel. Angel lost focus and lost himself in the past. Darla ran her tongue over the two puncher holes and forcefully sucked. This time, Angel couldn't stop the moan from escaping.

Suddenly he found himself lying on his back with a heavy weight on his torso. Darla ran her fangs over his neck barely scratching. Angel bucked wanting the contact.

"Sire…" Angel moaned out.

"Mmmm yes, that's my boy…" Darla whispered running her hand over Angel's body down his neck over his chest softly caressing his hard member that begged to be let out. "Ohh there it is… knows me well… you know it's me you've always wanted not that pathetic excuse for a vampire whore."

All of a sudden, Darla found herself nearly off the bed from the hard push that Angel gave her. She looked at his golden eyes gleaming with anger.

"You *never* speak of my mate like that!"

Darla let out a sickening laugh. "Your mate?! Where is your mate right now? Hanging with that pretty brunet boy I bet." Darla smirked as a look of jealousy passed over Angel's face. "Don't forget Angelus, I know you well. I could see how you looked at that boy as if you were about to rip those lively brown eyes of his out of their sockets. Now if you truly cared about William, you would've but no. You completely forgot about your 'mate'…" she spat the word out. "The second I entered!"

Angel stood up, put his shirt back on and dusted his clothes looking at the blond with disgust as if he didn't one hundred percent believe every single word she said. "I will leave you to rest. You've fed so you better not leave this room. Gunn will keep watch over you after he sees Cordy. And you better not make any sudden moves. You've hurt his girl and he'd love it if you gave him a reason to kill you," he said coldly before leaving to hide in his room.

******

Cordelia opened her eyes to see Xander's concerned face looking down at her. She smiled up at him feeling his hand on her bandage covered neck. She looked over and saw Spike sitting by the end of the bed. Fred was standing next to him and had dried tears on her cheeks next to her stood Wesley wrapping his arms around her not only comforting her but himself as well.

She looked at Xander and asked hoarsely, "Where's Gunn?"

"He went to bring you some water, thought you'd be needing it," he answered quietly, looking worriedly at her neck.

She smiled soothingly. "It's alright, Xander. I'm fine."

"She bit you, pet," Spike stated gesturing at her bandaged neck.

"Yeah I noticed!" she said sarcastically. "It was my own fault though, Spike," she said softly. "I felt sorry for her. She looked so helpless … like a mother… I forgot what she really was."

"I don't understand, Cordy," Xander spoke. "She's Darla, she's evil. You've always hated her!"

Cordelia looked at the wall. "I was pregnant once," she explained quietly.

Fred gasped. Spike's eyes widened. Xander gaped like a fish before asking hoarsely, "How … Why has nobody told us about it?!" he asked referring to the Scooby Gang. Willow and Cordelia had developed a good friendship once Cordelia moved to L.A. They told each over everything that happened over the phone. He doubted, though, that they were still gossiping after what happened to Spike.

Wesley was the one to answer Xander.  "It was an overnight thing. It was mystical."

Cordelia laughed softly. "I didn't go to term, but while it lasted, hooh! Talk about uncomfortable! Your back and legs hurt all the time and first you're sick to your stomach and you can't eat anything and then you're ravenous! I actually drank Angel's blood!"

She laughed at the looks she got. Wesley face was creased in the disgusting remembrance, Fred looked horrified and Spike was very curious. As for Xander he rasped, "Okay too much information, Cordy." Xander's face was priceless.

Wesley peered to look at his girlfriend's face. "I think we better let her rest."

Spike got up, "You're right, mate."

He walked with Wesley and Fred to the door then glanced back at Xander. "Aren't you coming, Xan?"

Xander answered without taking his eyes from Cordelia. "I'll stay here."

The young woman smiled looking up at him. "You don't have to, Gunn is gonna be here any minute and keep me company."

Xander ran his fingers through her short brown hair, "I don't have to, but I want to."

Cordelia's smile got bigger while her eyes drifted closed at the gentle caress of Xander's fingers. Spike smiled at the scene and let himself out.

Fred and Wesley headed down to the ex-watcher's office. Spike was about to follow but smelled Angel in their room. He frowned at the smell of Darla attached to his lover. Perhaps they had gotten into a fight his hopeful mine supplied. He walked towards his and Angel's room at the same time Gunn came passed him with the glass of water in a hand and a crossbow in the other.

~ Gotta protect ma girl! ~ The tall man thought firmly.

The sight that greeted Gunn in the room was controversial. His girlfriend was in bed. Eyes closed and moaning blithely, besides her was Xander stroking her hair softly. The memory of Xander kissing Spike in Caritas while Angel watched all hurt, flashed in his eyes. He held the glass of water tight so it wouldn't fall. Controlling his rage, he walked towards the bed. "Thanks man, now I'll take care of it," he said in forced calmness.

Xander smiled at him and moved away from bed. Gunn sat next to Cordelia and helped her up. "Want some water, baby?" he asked tenderly.

Cordelia took the glass and whispered, "Thanks." She drank happily gulping it all down.

Xander chuckled. "Easy Cor, it won't go away."

"You can go now, Xander. I'll handle it." Gunn insisted.

"No, it's alright with me …"

"I *said* you can go!" Gunn turned looking at the soul heatedly.

Xander stared at Gunn's eyes stunned before nodding. "Yeah sorry," he spoke inaudibly then disappeared in a second.

Cordelia slapped her boyfriend's arm angrily. "That was rude, Gunn!"

Gunn didn't response; he laid her down and started stroking her hair. Cordelia sighed. She knew Gunn didn't trust Xander with her after the whole Caritas thing, especially that she and Xander used date in high school. ~ It's gonna take some time before everybody trusts Xander again ~ she thought sullenly.

******

"Angel?" Spike asked concerned looking at his lover seated on the edge of the bed, head downcast in the dark. As he was closing the door he noticed that Angel was pinching the bridge of his nose; an action Spike had become familiar with once the older vampire was upset about something.

Angel slowly raised his head and suppressed a groan. He had been trying to whiter the erection he developed in cause of Darla's actions and he was getting there, if difficultly, if it weren't for Spike entering. The sight of his beloved's concern blue eyes, and the obvious love that shone from them helped bring back his member's hardness tenfold. Besides, the beauty of the creature in front of him assisted somewhat.

Spike gasped at the lust that stared back at him through brown hooded eyes. He felt himself grow hard at the sight of that yearning directed towards him. In all of his existence on this plane, he had wished that his god like sire would look at him even within a smidgen of the look he was getting now. He felt his feet move without his consent, not that if he were not caught in this intense gaze he would have stopped them but perhaps moved them along a little faster.

The silence in the room was alluring to both vampires. The quiet presence of darkness allowed them to forget everything that was happening outside of this room. If both vampires could breathe, they would have realized that they were holding their breaths fearing that any sudden action would result in this quiet time of them two alone to be interrupted. It was best not to work their minds on matters other than the present, on each other.

Spike found himself in front Angel caressing his face not believing how blessed he was to deserve the love of the man he had desired for an existence. Angel, on his side, found himself leaning into the loving touch with familiar thoughts running through his mind. He ran his hands over the other man's sides dislodging the caressing hand and silently instructing him to remove the long leather coat. The blond silently complied. The leather falling to the ground made a deafening sound in the silent room. It was like a sounding bell to both vampires.

The older man encircled the creature now residing on his lap with strong arms and with large hands he began to run them all over his back and ass, grouping what he had yet to see. The blond latched on to his lips and he retuned the kiss with equal passion if surprisingly more. In between the tangled mess of arms they both successfully removed the concealing shirts, revealing white inviting skin that gleamed in the darkness.

Spike licked his lips at the sight of Angel's nipples before latching on to one licking over it before giving the other an equal attention. Angel's eyes shot open at the action. He had forgotten how limber his boy was. He would have to keep that in mind for the next time. Angel bucked as Spike punished him for brooding by biting his right nipple hard enough that it bled. Spike growled before latching on and suckling on it like a baby. At the same time he was bucking into Angel causing their erections to brush. Angel moaned at the intense feelings he was getting. Spike looked up at him for a while before a grin presented itself on his face. He leaned into Angel's ear causing their lower parts to tauntingly touch.

"Seems a part of you is craving attention luv," he whispered in his ear before licking the ear lobe. "Maybe I should take care of that, no need of sibling rivalry, hmm?"

Angel was not able to speak. He felt that if he opened his mouth he would release a sound that would seriously endanger his reputation, so he settled for nodding, furiously. Spike pushed his tongue into his upper teeth, an action he knew infuriated his sire in a good way before quickly scrambling off the dark vampire’s lap.

The older vampire blinked at the missing presence on him. He had to move his head to look for him and luckily found him quite fast. As he was now leaning down in front of him in a submissive way that made Angel glad he was sitting down. Angel knew that since they were now equal mates that Spike didn't need to do that, but the brunet was not one to look a gift horse in the mouth.

His eyes were quickly zoned into the kiss bruised pink lips that were open in such an inviting way. Two hands with elegantly long fingers found there place over his zipper. They caressed the hard cock under the material with the same love that Angel felt when Spike touched his cheek.

Spike closed his eyes relishing the feel of his love's desire for him as he fondled the length through the trousers. He heard the whispered "Wil'."

He was the reason for this, not Buffy, not Dru, not some off the street floozy, and especially not Darla but him! He took a deep breath wanting to smell the intoxicating smell of his mate's arousal…

When Angel saw Spike close his eyes he did the same. He vaguely realized that he whimpered when his balls and length were squeezed. He waited with restraint coming from nearly a hundred years of celibacy for the feel of the metal zipper being lowered. Several seconds passed and nothing happened, even the moving hands stopped. To be precise, they were actually removed. His eyes fluttered open when he heard a shuffling in the room.

His eyes widened in surprise and shock for he saw Spike putting on his shirt and picking up his discarded coat. He jumped up angry that their ministrations had stopped but mostly confused.

"Spike… Spike… Spike! What the hell are you doing?!" Angel followed Spike's pacing with his eyes as he asked but got no response; still he did not dare approach the noticeably irate vampire.

Suddenly Spike stopped with his face partly away from Angel. "It wasn't me, was it?" he whispered the question.

Angel frowned he opened his mouth to ask but Spike was quick to elaborate. "Your bleedin' hard on wasn't for me, was it?!" he said turning to glare at Angel. Angel was struck by the tear filled eyes, tears that threatened to fall but were strongly held in place.

"What are you…?"

"Bollocks! Don't play the 'I don't know what you're talking about' card, Peaches! I can smell the bitch all over you!"

Angel wanted to say something, anything but his shoulders slumped down in defeat. Spike's eyes looked ever more hurt at that action if possible.

"Why?"

Angel shook his head. "She's my sire… or was… I don't know. She holds something over me I guess. But, well, it didn't go farther than that I swear! I just want you to…"

"What?! You want me to be all forgiving coz she got you all hot and bothered and you only wanted a hole to poke through?!" Spike stepped back.

Angel advanced in anger. "You know that's not true! I love you not her! I came in here to get away from her because she wants to break us up and I wouldn't have any part in that."

Spike looked down and asked pitifully, "And her smell all over you… her smell *there*. How could she get you to…"

Angel ran his hand over his hair and looked guilty. "That's partly my fault really. I let her drink from me because she refused to drink bottled blood and threatened to hurt the humans. I thought since she wasn’t my sire now she wouldn't affect me… I guess I was wrong… I'm sorry."

Spike's blue eyes widened. Angel apologized, his sire apologized for something. He had never done that before.

"I'm not only your sire now Wil, I'm you mate and I love you," he said the words forcefully knowing of his childe insecurities. "You come first, always. The only reason I broke Darla's spell over me was because of our link together, our love."

Spike shook his head with a smile. "You always had a way with words."

Angel returned the smile knowing that they were out of the fire. "They're the truth." He reached the blonde's side and touched his face similarly to how he was touched earlier. "I also apologize for neglecting you since Darla's arrival, it was wrong of me to loose focus…"

Spike nodded defeated. "I understand it was important…"

Angel roughly shook him. "No! You don't understand! You. You are important, never question that, never!"

Spike looked at him in the eyes before sighing. He placed his hand on Angel's for a second before moving away towards the door. He stopped in the doorway to reflect on something.

When Angel felt Spike withdraw, he felt his non-beating plummet. Was he loosing his reason to live? Hadn't he promised himself to do whatever it takes to prevent that? Then what is he doing standing there relishing the last time he felt Spike's touch on his hand.

"I'm not leaving."

The soft words made Angel regain focus and look at the blond in front of him who was gazing at him with a small smile. He frowned and that caused the smiled to widen a bit.

"I've sampled your precious blood a short while back remember?" Angel nodded and wished he didn’t as he remembered the reason why the 'sampling' happened in the first place. "Well, I can feel you. And yes I do believe what you've said."

Angel opened his mouth but Spike raised his hand to stop him. "I just need time to sort some things out, and calm down. Let’s just say I don’t want to get all broody over the fact that I staked Darla not knowing if what she carries is innocent or not, and leave it at that, what you say huh?" With that he left.

Angel stood in the room alone. He felt like he was the childe in this. At the same time he felt so proud that Spike had grown up to be like that. He spotted his shirt on the floor and picked, it up narrowing his eyes. He had been so close to losing his boy, and he might just lose him yet if Spike sorts things out and Angel finds himself one of the things out. He had promised himself that he would keep them together no matter what the cost ended up being. Even of it meant what he was about to do. With that he stormed out of the room.

******

Wesley sat on his chair holding a book and sighed tiredly. The ex-watcher rubbed his forehead while looking at the words in the book and comparing them with the scroll but couldn't make any more sense out of them than he already had figured out, which was not much. He felt Fred's fingers on his shoulders massaging them and leaned back in the chair sighing contently.

Fred smiled down at him and kept rubbing down his shoulders. "You know, we could use some help on this. You shouldn't research alone."

"Yeah well, I would like to see everyone present, but Angel is busy calming Darla after what happened with Cordy, whose with Gunn and Xander …"

"Is here," Xander finished the sentence cheerfully as he appeared in front of them.

Fred looked at him shocked. "How did you do that? I mean, we didn't call your name …"

Xander cut her off grinning. "Wesley wanted me to be here. Calling me isn't just the only way, if you want me to be here I'd show." He turned to Wesley, "How can I be of service, sir?" he asked as he bowed.

Wesley smiled and aimed at the book in his hands. "How do you feel about research?"

"Oh, I'm an expert at the R. G-man used my help a lot in that area. I could read most of the languages …"

"Amazing! Can you decipher Nyazian? We are trying to find out about the arrival of the Tro-clan concerning…"

"Whoa! Now when I said I could read, I meant reading with the understanding quota of nil."

Fred giggled while her boyfriend sighed. "Very well, let me update you on what
I have found so far. For the past few weeks I've been reading a prophecy that could either lead to good or evil, Gunn and I earlier today retrieving some missing pieces from the Nyazian Scroll which hold said prophecy. It predicts the arrival or arising of the Tro-clan, the person or being that brings about the ruination of mankind at the same time it may mean purification… also from what I could get out of it the prophecies say that it will be born *and* will arise in different translations."

Xander shrugged. "Well, we do know that Darla is pregnant with something so there is your born thing with the baby she's carrying!"

Wesley nodded. "Which is biologically impossible with vampires."

"And mystically unfair," Fred stated. "Angel has fought long and hard for good."

Wesley sighed. "If his destiny is to spawn something evil..."

Xander shook his head. "I don't see how anything spawned by Darla and Angel could be good."

Wesley looked at Fred. "Do you remember when I told you about the first prophecy that said that the vampire with a soul would be pivotal in the battle between good and evil?"

Fred raised her eyebrow, "That Shanshu one?"

Wesley nodded. "Maybe it's not Angel. Maybe his child is a pivotal figure. Maybe Angel's destiny is simply to help *bring* it to the world."

"Or to stop it," Xander muttered.

Fred huffed getting tired of the conversation. "Can I say something about destiny? Screw destiny!" she said looking at the two in front of her. "If this evil thing comes we'll fight it, and we'll keep fighting it until we whoop it. Coz destiny is just another word for inevitable and nothing's inevitable as long as you stand up, look it in the eye, and say 'your evitable!'" she paused, "Well, uh, you …you catch my drift."

She blushed as she saw them blinking at her. Wesley smiled warmly. Xander grinned remembering his childhood best friend Willow, he then looked at Wesley. "Wow. I like her so much!" he exclaimed before realizing what he had just said.

He raised his arms in a defensive gesture. "No, I don't like her. I mean I like her but not in the sense of liking that is … um I like her in a friendly kind of way, that's all, yeah, just as a friend!" With all he can, he stopped babbling and looked at Wesley with uncertainty while laughing nervously.

Wesley blinked at the young soul not knowing what was wrong with him. Fred just smiled sadly and for Xander's sake tried to change the subject. "So do you think the baby is the one in the first prophecy?"

Taking his eyes from a nervous Xander, Wesley looked at his girlfriend. "Well, that's a possibility. Though there are others," he said in a low voice.

Fred blinked before gasping, "Oooh you mean Spike."

Xander toned in when he heard the name. "What's with Spike?"

Wesley looked worriedly at Xander, he knew even though he had told Angel he had nothing to fear of the boy that Xander cared deeply about Spike, he sighed wishing that things could become simpler but in their line of work that was only a dream. "The first prophecy concerns a vampire with a soul that fights for good, now unless it means the child Darla carries...."

"Both Spike or Angel are candidates," Xander said understanding.

"Exactly," he nodded.

"But what does this prophecy do to either of them if it does come true?" Xander asked worried for his friend.

"Well, the demon inside of him dies and the human lives, meaning he will truly be alive." Xander's eyes widened thinking of Spike as human.

"However, in light of new development it could most likely be the child that the vampire with a soul brings to this world. But what worries me is what will the child be."

"You mean if it's going to be human or a vampire?" Fred asked.

"Yes, will it has a soul or not?"

Fred's eyes gleamed. "Why don't we let Darla sing to Lorne?"

Wesley beamed, "Excellent idea, Fred! I'll call him right away!" He went straight to the counter and dialed Lorne's office number, unfortunately, the green demon wasn't in his office at the time and didn't hear the phone.

******

A dark haired young woman sat by the bar looking miserable. Her sorrowful sighs wrapped around Lorne's big heart and pulled him towards her. With a gentle smile on his face he sat next to her, "Would the lady like a drink?"

She looked at Lorne whose heart started to pound at sight of the biggest blue gray eyes he had ever seen marred with such sorrow. "Yes, please," she muttered almost faintly.

Lorne called for Willy asking for two drinks. He turned to the brunet who locked her eyes on the bar table again seemingly lost in her own troubles.

"Care for a kind ear? I've been told I'm a professional listener that gives fabulous advice!" Lorne grinned at her confidently while actually he nerves were jumpy waiting for her response.

The woman somewhat grinned as she pushed her long hair away from her face where it fell when she looked down. She turned towards Lorne and locked her eyes with him.

"My mom told me to never talk with strangers."

Lorne nodded. "A wise mom, mine never really cared. Fair enough, let's rectify that. I'm Lorne," he said presenting her with a green hand.

She smiled as she took it. "Like Lorne green?" That caused Lorne to groan and roll his eyes. The women seated herself better so she could face Lorne completely.

Still holding on to his hand she said, "I'm Laura." She smiled. "Laura Gray."

Lorne grinned gazing into her blue grey eyes. “Yeah I can see that.” He lost himself in the depth of those eyes. Eyes that have seen a lot and could tell him plenty. He knew that the only way for him to know what they hid was for her to sing to him. He sometimes was able to read people without them singing but Laura was too cryptic her aura shun in a gray haze around her but it was still too obscure for a valid reading.

"How about a song?"

Laura blinked at him. "What?"

Lorne waved at the club. "This is a Karaoke bar hon… you sing… I help."

She swerved her glass around. "What if I don't want help," she said. Looking up at him with lost eyes she continued, "Maybe I just came here to hear other people sing badly and drink myself silly."

"Are you?" Lorne asked leaning into the bar.

She shook her head and looked back down. "I don't know," she whispered.

"So… sing and maybe I could help you. I promise it will only sting at the beginning," he said jokingly.

She smiled at that, bit her lip in thought then nodded. "Okay, where do I choose my song?"

A wide grin took place on Lorne's green face and he pointed towards a cubicle at the back of the stage.

A few seconds passed. The lights dimmed a little and a vision stood on the stage, her dark hair glowing in the dark. The first notes to the song started and with the first word she uttered she locked eyes with Lorne's.

The empath found himself loosing all sense of things around him and only concentrated on the beautiful gray eyes bearing into his. He saw her life with clarity he had never had before. He experienced all her pain and loose as if where his. He knew that there was only one thing he could do, had to do. And he would gladly do it.

******

Spike entered the dim club. He had come to Caritas because he had been missing his friend. Since he had been back from his horrific experience he hadn't seen the green demon. Not only was he missing him but he needed to talk with him about what happened. He knew he could have spoke with Xander about it, but the brunet was too involved in the matter. Moreover, Spike doubted he could talk about what happened between Angel and himself with Fred for more than one season. That left his first choice, Lorne.

The blond vampire scanned the club in search for his friend. He had been told by Fred that before his miraculous rescue by Giles no less, Lorne had been neglecting his job. Many people, apart from the three friends, didn’t know or never comprehended the good Lorne did with his readings. It was not only his job to maintain the club but to assist any way he could help the people that came to the club in need, be them human or demon. Thus, when Lorne was sure of his friend's safety he returned full time to the club, actually sleeping there for three nights, trying to make up for the lost time.

Spike smiled when he spotted his friend lounging by the far side of bar close to the stage clearly reading the singer. He vaguely noticed that the woman on the stage was singing with a lovely lulling singing voice and smiled realizing that Lorne is at least enjoying himself this time.

He reached Lorne's side not wishing to disturb the reading, and waited for the dark haired woman to finish singing. He signaled to Willy and without any more direction the bartender placed his usual JD in front of him with a nod. Spike sipped his drink and turned his attention to the singer. He was struck instantly with her stunning beauty. What caught his attention most was her gray eyes. He frowned noticing that she was only looking at one person, Lorne, and with a gaze of such intensity one would think that she was the one reading him. Spike turned his head and saw that Lorne was actually so in tune with this woman that he hadn't realized that Spike was next to him, something that never happened before.

A small smiled began on Spike's face.

~ Could our Lorney-boy be growing up? ~

Spike leaned into the bar and caught Willy's amused look. He whispered, "Is she reeling him in?"

Willy shook his head whispering back, "Oh no, he's already in the basket." The two snickered lowly as they looked back to the club owner and found him gaping.

The song finally ended and the lights returned to normal. Applause and whistling erupted through the club with Lorne leading them on. Spike found that it was his chance.

"'ello mate!"

Lorne shook his head as trying to shake something out of him mind. He didn’t know what it was but whatever was there it was gone now. He faced his friend with a wide smile, and with no hesitation at all hugged him tightly.

"Spike! You’re ok!" He pulled away to look at him checking that he was indeed fine then pulled him back for even a tighter hug. "Heaven's you gave me a heart attack! And that's not a good this to have when you're heart in your butt you know!"

Spike chuckled and pulled away straightening his duster not caring if anyone saw that pitiful show of affection just now, since it was a frequent event to anyone who came to the club regularly. "Sorry, Pet. Have no idea about that."

"So all is well in Vampy Land?" Lorne asked at the same time he waved to Willy to refill his drink.

"Too many vamps in the land I'd say," Spike mumbled.

Lorne frowned over his drink. "Huh?"

"That's what I want to talk to you about… Da…"

"Um Lorne?" A quite voice interrupted them.

Lorne's frown turned upside-down. "Hey!" He excitedly faced the young woman. "Now that was a performance! Congrats!"

"Laura, this is my good friend Spike, Spike this gray eyed beauty is Laura Gray!" The green demon introduced.

Spike made an effort for his friend and smiled warmly at the woman friendly. He presented his hand but at the same time she turned her attention to Lorne. "Um, Lorne could I speak with you?" she said, ignoring Spike. The blond vampire returned his hand.

Lorne fluttered between them two. "But I…" he said indicating to Spike.

"I thought you wanted to help me?" she asked in a pitiful voice.

"I do!" Lorne insisted. He looked at Spike and shrugged before taking Laura's by the arm and directing her towards his office.

Spike stood there stunned.

"Well if it's any consolation, I don't like her either," Willy said refilling his drink. Spike nodded. There was something unsettling about that woman. Spike sighed and mentally slapped himself.

~ I'm bloody getting paranoid about every woman that I cross paths with. She's just someone Red Eye's read, he'll help her and we'd be through with her ~

Problem was Lorne always placed his friends before all others. And Spike needed his advice about this trust thing going on between him and Angel. He downed the rest of his drink in one gulp and stood up before nodding to Willy and exiting the club. He had to settle things alone. It was his choice. He owed that to Angel as well as himself. Who knew perhaps a night's walk would do his troubled mind some good.

******

The door swung so hard it slammed into the wall. That didn't do a thing for Darla who already knew who was coming. Angel stood by the door, eyes golden with fury.

Darla chuckled. "What? Sweet William couldn't clean the mess I made for you?" she asked sarcastically.

Angel approached her, his entire posture screaming rage. "You know, things were starting to get just fine but then *you* have to show up with that round stomach of yours and ruin everything!"

"Do you think I wanted things to go this way?" she yelled with frenzy, touching her abdomen.

"Well, it's not my fault!"

"Not your fault? Not your *fault*?! You put this *thing* in me!"

"How was I suppose to know that vampires can actually can have children?" He was so fed up. Why was everybody blaming him for this? He didn't know things could end up this way when he slept with her last year! Although he knew that maybe he was going to lose his soul, or secure it but that was another story in a very dark time of his life.

"They can't! But it was you all along, you with your warrior crap and destiny!" she screamed rushing forward to escape. Angel stood in front of her trying to block her path. Astoundingly, she pushed him out of her way without any sort of difficulty and he felt his body flying to hit the wall and sliding down it with the force of the blow. He stood quickly following her. "Don't let her get away!" he yelled to whoever was in the lobby that could help.

Once he got down there he found Wesley on the ground and Xander in Fred's lap groaning. He went straight to Wesley and helped him up. "What happened?" the ex-watcher asked woozily.

"She got angry and decided to take off, you alright?" The dark vampire asked concerned. Wesley nodded feeling his jaw making sure it was still in one peace after the worldwide that was a very pregnant female vampire crossed his path.

"I'm not!" They turned to Xander who was held by Fred, whining, "It really hurts! I've never felt pain like this in the last four months!" he moaned pitifully before turning his head to look at Fred, "Thanks for catching me, Fred. If it wasn't for you I might have flown to the next room or um … forever."

Fred giggled. "You're welcome."

"Guys!"

A panting Gunn ran into the lobby and stood with hands on his knees, catching his breath. Worried, Angel asked, "What is it, Gunn? Is it Cordy?"

Gunn looked up at him. "Cordy had a vision. She said that Darla is close to giving birth."

Angel paced while Gunn went on, "Cordy said that Darla's hungry with the birth being almost here and all and that she's after younger victims for some reason. She went to an arcade, to the kids' games section."

Beat, Angel asked, "She didn't say which one?"

"I asked her, she said she couldn't remember." Gunn nodded up at the room Cordelia's occupying, "I should …"

Angel nodded. "Yeah, go to your girlfriend."

As Gunn left, Angel was arming himself from the weapons cabinet. He looked at Wesley, "I'm going after her. You guys stay here and look through the books."

Wesley stepped next to him and glared. "You will not go by yourself!" he said defensively.

Angel gave him a side-glance and muttered, "Watch me."

"I'm not speaking to you as the boss, because I know you wouldn't listen, but you shouldn't do this alone," he insisted.

"I *have* to do this alone."

"Angel, a normal vampire is strong, and Darla wasn't normal before this. She took down you, Xander, and me without even breaking stride. She's stronger than all of us right now because of what's in her."

"I know. I put it there," The dark vampire stated firmly before he turned away and hurried out.

Wesley watched him leave and muttered. "Why does he think he has to do everything alone?"

"I think he just can't bear to have us see him do it," Fred answered.

"Kill Darla?" Wesley asked while Fred nodded. "She did try to kill Cordy … and she's a vampire."

"Who is carrying his child," Fred reasoned. "The one thing he can never have, even if he lives forever." She looked down at Xander who was clutching her blouse, "Are you still hurt?"

"No."

Fred raised an eyebrow at the simple way of answering. "Then why are you still sitting on my lap, letting me hold you."

Xander grinned. "You're comfy and it's been a long time since someone held me like this."

The young woman smiled down at him and held him tighter.

Wesley tightened his fists. "Oh dear lord! How could I let that slip from my mind?!"

Xander looked at him, "What is it, Wes-man?"

Wesley looked at Xander explaining, "Darla hit you, Xander. She touched you and she doesn't have a soul so …"

Xander's eyes widened. "That means …"

Fred exclaimed happily, "The baby has a soul!"

******

On the roof of a high building, Spike stood lost in his own thoughts. His eyes were on the kids who were happily jumping out of or towards the mall their obvious port was the open games arcade at the front of the building. His brooding, though he would deny that even if he was dunked in holy water, again, was interrupted by a scent he recognized with vehemence.

~ The bitch! ~ He thought, eyes searching for his grand-sire. His eyes widened when he saw her crouched in front of a little boy in a deserted corner in the arcade clearly heading towards a dark alley.

He listened carefully and heard the boy tell her innocently, "Ma'am, I don't think my mom is back here."

Darla knelt in front of him. "Are you sure? Did you look?" she asked sweetly.

The boy started looking around. "I don't see anybody."

He turned back to see that Darla had morphed. The young boy let out a horrified scream. Spike's eyes flashed yellow and was about to jump but stopped when he saw Angel running over some of the arcade games. He tackled Darla against the wall and slammed the stake in his hand towards her heart. Darla put up a hand to ward it off. The stake pierced her hand so hard it came out on the other side.

The boy ran away screaming, straight into his mother's arms out in the crowd.

Away from them, Darla tossed Angel out from the deserted section. The boy's mother's eyes widen as Angel landed on top of some tables, overturning them. When the people in the room saw Darla follow him out, still wearing her vamp-face, they turned ran out the doors screaming.

Darla pulled the stake out of her right palm and let it drop as she walked towards Angel. "You *so* want to play the good guy, don't you? Yeah. You're the good guy who did *this* to me."

She hauled back and knocked Angel across the face, slamming him against one of the games. "You may have the face, but you don't know the hunger! It pounds! You can't make it go away! You can't stop it!"

"I'll stop it!"

He pulled his arm back and hit her. The two of them fought like they never did before. Angel steered their fight towards the deserted section and out into the dark alley, causing them both to stumble over old wooden crates breaking them. In the end, after much difficulty, Angel managed to grab Darla by the throat and pushed her up against the wall.

"How could you put this in me? I *hate* you!" Darla screamed as she hit him again, but Angel refused to let go of her throat.

"They breathe. They breathe and pound. I don't breathe, you idiot! You can't strangle me!" Darla laughs.

"I'm not gonna strangle you." Angel pulled her away and slammed her back up against the alley wall, their fight bringing them out there, pulling out another stake.

"Come on! Do it!" Darla yelled. She spotted his hesitation and yelled louder. "Do it!"

Angel slowly lowered the stake and looked down at Darla's belly. His eyes widened as he heard the heartbeat again. He slowly stepped back from Darla, who lunged grabbing a hold of his jacket and shook him hard.

"Do it! Do it! Make it stop!"

Angel gently restrained her, wrapping her tightly in his arms and pulling her up against his chest. "No it won't, Darla. Darla, listen to me."

"Make it stop! Make it stop!"

"The child. The child has a heartbeat. It has a soul."

She flailed wildly, "No! Not my child! No!"

"Our child, our child, our child," he repeated. "That's why you've been craving purer and purer blood. That's why it's been driving you out of your mind. It has a soul."

Darla collapsed against Angel's chest, sobbing, "No, it doesn't."

He held her tighter. "It does."

"It can't!"

"Yes, it does. It does," he answered quietly.

Darla gave out a scream of agony. "God, it hurts!" She fell down holding her stomach and shaking. Angel dropped next to her, running a hand through her hair and holding her with the other. "You're about to give birth. Cordy saw it in her vision."

"No!" Darla sobbed in pain.

A deafening thunder cracked followed by a shower of rain, Angel looked down at his sire, who started to get wet, not sure what to do. A gentle hand rested on his shoulder. He looked up to meet a pair of calm blue eyes. "Spike," he whispered helplessly.

"Shh, it's alright. I'm here." A rain-socked-curly-haired Spike gave a reassuring smile and sat next to his sires. He had come to his conclusion alone and that was where he had to be. He looked at the blonde female lying on the ground groaning with exhaustion. He touched her arm lightly until she looked at him. Spike gave her a tiny smile that held both caring and encouragement. Surprisingly, she smiled back leaning into the light stroke.

Angel ran a hand through her wet locks. "You're gonna be okay," he whispered softly.

"No. No, I don't think so," she confessed looking at him, "Once he's gone, I won't be okay. I won't be okay at all..."

"You called him a he!" Angel said surprised.

She gave the brunet vampire a pained look and continued not hearing what he had said, "…I don't know what I'll be…Angel... Our baby is gonna die right here in this alley," Her scared look turned into a sad smile, "You died in an alley, remember?"

Angel nodded and whispered, "I remember."

Darla looked down at her tummy, the sad smile still there with a slightly fond gaze. "I wanna say I'm sorry. I wanna say it and mean it, but … I can't. Aren't you gonna tell me its okay?"

"No," he said sadly.

She chuckled bitterly. "No? It's really not, is it? We did so many terrible things together. So much destruction, so much …pain. We can't make up for any of it. You know that, don't you?"

Overwhelmed, Angel answered, "Yeah."

"This child … Angel, it's the one good thing we ever did together."

Angel lifted Darla's hand between both of his and pressed it against his lips. "The only good thing," she spoke softly while her childe buried his face in his hands, still holding onto Darla's, taking a sobbing breath.

Spike watched sadly with astonishingly no jealousy inside him. His eyes focused on Darla who for the first time in all those years smiled kindly at him. "You make sure to tell my child that, William?"

Spike nodded squeezing his fingers on her arm tightly, "I promise."

"This child gave me a soul for a short time, and I feel guilty, I feel guilty for all the things I did to you… Sorry William… for everything, I don't have an eternity to ask forgiveness for them all… all I have to say is that mostly other than the evil vampire bitchiness…" The two blonds shared a smile at that. "… I was jealous, envious of you of your passion and heart. Please care for my boy William, both of them." Spike nodded still amazed that anyone could be jealous of him.

His grand-sire held a wood splinter from the soaking ground and quickly buried it in her chest. She gasped, eyes widened. Angel lifted his head and stared as Darla turned to dust and dust partials trickled though his fingers. In his sire's place there was a naked human infant lying in the rain, wailing.

Angel stared down wide-eyed at the crying baby. He turned to look at his lover. Spike smiled lovingly at him. Angel turned to the child and carefully gathered him up, and cradled 'his son' to his chest.

Spike reached his fingers to the little head, running them lightly over the soft skin. He gave Angel a big smile, "Here 'e is, your son."

Angle gave him a hard stare, "No." Spike looked confused. "Our son," His brunet lover stated firmly.

A small smile curled up on Spike's lips as he went forward pressing them against Angel's. Angel responded passionately and the kiss turned into a bruising one. Both vamps kissed hard under the rain with the small child cradled between their chests.

Spike drew back a bit, breaking the kiss. "Can I hold 'im?" he whispered into Angel's lips.

Angel hesitated and looked down at his crying child. He had strong feelings of protection directed towards the little mortal in his hands. He wanted to hold him forever, wanted him to be close to him, never being parted from him.

"You can trust me with him," The soft whispered words that escaped his lover's lips drew Angel back to reality. He looked up at the ocean blue eyes and gave a faint smile.

"No one else more," he murmured giving his child to his childe. Spike held the weeping baby in his arms, rocking and shushing him. The picture his lover with his baby made under the rain was breathtakingly beautiful. Angel wished for a pad and some charcoal so he could preserve that moment for ever, his family. But he thought positively, they would have many, hopefully, happy years together with a lot of prospect for his sketching perhaps he would add the new ones to his collection. Spike raised his head and smiled at his lover beatifically happy with himself as he calmed the child. Angel held his hand and helped him up as they left the dark alley into the lightened street heading home. He couldn't wait.

******

At the Hyperion, everyone was on the edge waiting for Angel to come back with Darla. Cordelia couldn't sleep and sat in the lobby with Gunn. Also there were Wesley, Fred and Xander who were still discussing the prophesy as all of their questions where answered when Cordelia informed them of her vision. Everyone was well aware of the heavy rain outside and hoped that Angel and Darla were alright. The only reason they actually pretended that they cared about the blond pregnant vampire was because of the apparently soul-ed human child she carried. Hence, Wesley was right, and the two prophecies indeed were about the vampire with a soul or in fact his child, Angel's child.

Xander wanted to wait outside in hope of seeing his friend not caring about the rain since it couldn't touch him. But he couldn't dare ask one of the Fang Gang to stand in the rain with him and get wet for him. For that reason, he was standing inside. It bugged him that he couldn’t leave the lobby by himself and wait alone in the rain. He was more worried about Spike than the other two vampires. Even though he knew his friend was safe he wanted to see him with his two eyes not with his senses. He could still remember the anguish he felt when he was discussing the prophecy with Wesley and Fred before Darla stormed out and Angel followed her. He knew something happened between the vampire lovers and he wanted to help. But he vaguely sensed Spike not wanting to talk to him about it, it hurt but he understood way. All he had to do now was wait and hope for the best.

Suddenly, Angel entered the hotel with Spike by his side. Xander and Fred hurried towards them while Cordelia thanked God and sank in the embrace of her boyfriend completely exhausted. Wesley frowned at the small bundle in Angel's arms and figured out that Darla must have given birth, but where was she? He waited for the blond vampire to enter behind the other two but she was no where in sight.

"Oh God! He is SO cute!" Wesley was shaken from his thoughts by the loud exclamation of his girlfriend. He walked towards the entrance along with Cordelia who was supported by Gunn to where the two vampires stood cornered by an enthusiastic Xander and Fred, who were fighting over who was going to hold the baby.

"No one is going to hold him, now quit fighting!" Angel shouted at the two youths who looked at him pleadingly brown eyes widening pitifully. "We'll be good, Angel. Please! Just let me hold him first!" Fred begged trying to use the puppy eyes technique she learned from Spike.

Xander, who had perfected the puppy eyes look, looked at Angel's weakest link, Spike. "Spike, let him give me the baby, please."

Spike laughed at his young friends’ antics and waved off, "Sorry mate. Peaches here won't give the whelp up to anyone; it's the protective bugger in 'im."

"Where's Darla, Angel?" Wesley asked the brunet vampire apprehensively.

Angel stared at his new born baby sadly and didn't answer. Spike patted his lover and looked at the brunet young watcher. "She dusted herself to let the kid out," he explained.

Cordelia gave Angel a sympathetic look and hugged him. Spike took the baby from Angel so he could hug her back.

"Why did she have to dust herself?" Gunn asked.

"I think that explains the confusion in the Scroll. It needed both, birth which is the arrival of a child into this world and rising and it happened when Darla sacrificed herself for her unborn child thus the boy rose from ashes, somehow I believe she knew. Loving her child needed some sacrifices and she gladly gave it to him," Wesley explained solemnly.

A melancholic silence surrounded everybody for a minute until Xander tried to change the subject. "Hey, why can Spike hold the baby?" he complained looking at the blond holding the child.

Spike smirked. "That's coz I'm the lover…"

"What does that mean?! Do I have to be Angel’s lover to hold the kid?" Xander asked simply. Angel’s eyes widened remembering the kiss and actually took a couple of steps back.

Spike raised an eyebrow at Xander and Angel and continued, “Nooo, but 'e trusts me not to let the little guy fall."

“What’s that supposed to mean?!” Xander asked indignant crossing his arms.

Spike shrugged. "Well, mate you gotta admit you're a bit on the clumsy side."

"I'm not clumsy! Let me prove it!" The soul approached the blond holding his hands out for the child.

Angel's eyes widened with horror. "No! No one holds him except me and Spike!"

Spike smiled reassuringly at the older vampire. "Relax luv, I'm not letting the lil’ sprout out of me hands. I'll just let Xan feel his weight, that's all. He won't leave my arms."

"I claim dibs after Xander!" Fred exclaimed excitedly.

Spike stepped forward and Xander held the gasp that almost escaped his mouth. Spike was too close. Their shoulders touched lightly as the blonde knelt to make him hold the baby. "Here," Spike's voice was a bit husky and Xander just noticed that he was wet from the rain. The wet blond curls were touching his forehead in soft butterfly touches.

The young soul felt his cock harden as his cheek touched Spike's wet one. He didn’t know he could still do that! His groin was itching painfully against his tight jeans. His mouth was close to Spike's earlobe and, with no control of his actions; he reached up to lick the inviting earlobe, which was when his eyes caught Angel's death glare.

He backed rapidly backwards, looking alarmed at his actions. He had never let his lust over take him that much ever before, and didn't hear Spike's yell, "You idiot! You was about to make ‘im fall!" Xander didn't hear and his eyes and soul were focused were on Angel's angry gaze.

No one noticed what happened in that split second as Fred hurried next to Spike crying out, "My turn!" Everybody's eyes were on the thin girl and Spike, missing the exchange between the tall brunets.

Xander looked at Angel who gave him one last warning look before turning to walk towards the stairs. The young soul knew it was his cue to leave since now everyone was fine. Still worried about the look he got from Angel, he vanished slowly.

******

The dark figure stood alone in the empty room on the last floor of the hotel. The sounds of his family downstairs couldn’t reach this room even with his sensitive hearing. His mind was clear and his thoughts were focused on one thing.

He turned to his right to notice the distress youth who looked at him with eyes full of guilt and plead.

"Angel I'm sorry!"

"Save it, Xander," The older brunet spoke firmly startling the young soul. Xander looked at the ground with sorrow knowing he deserved that. Angel sighed and started leisurely walking around the room, hands behind his back, and seemed to be thinking. He stopped suddenly and looked directly at Xander. "Look, this is not working out."

Xander's eyes shot up, a fearful look on his face. "No it will! Don't worry Angel, I'll control myself, I swear!"

Angel sighed again. "Xander, you have strong feelings towards my lover, you're his best friend, you know more about him than I do. I was his sire who lived with him more than your existence and yet I don’t know half of what you do. You're a threat to our relationship, Xander. I would say it's nothing personal," Angel shrugged, "But hey! It is!"

The young soul shook his head quickly. "No, I'm not a threat. I promise I won't cause any trouble, really!"

Angel's eyes turned cold, his mouth twisted understatedly. "Oh, like you did with me and Buffy?" The question was asked dryly.

Xander took a deep breath. "Angel, back then I was sixteen, a teenager. Now I'm older and know better than to estrange my friends like that!"

Angel chuckled shaking his head. "Don't make me laugh! What? You just reached twenty-one and died so you think you're a mature man with great self-control? You were just about to snatch my lover's ear with your teeth or tongue or whatever the hell you were about to do! How can you not be a threat?"

"How can I *be*, Angel? I'm nothing! I'm dead, and not just any dead, I'm dead with no body! I'm just a soul!" Xander tried so hard to reason.

"A soul with emotions!" Angel spat, feeling his body tremble with anger. "I saw your hard on, Harris, for God’s sake! You have strong feelings towards Spike, my Spike! I won’t be surprised if you were deeply in love with him!"

"No!" Xander yelled trying to deny. "I'm not, Angel, those are just stupid emotions I have from spending a lot of time with Spike, that's all!"

"Yes, that's the cause and we should rectify it."

Xander blinked looking at Angel with hesitation, "What do you mean?"

Angel stood up straight and looked at him and said firmly, "Stay away from Spike."

Xander's eyes narrowed and whispered, "What?"

"Spending time with Spike is what causing you to feel like this. So stay away from him, don't show when he calls you except for work or when you *need* to tell him that someone needs his help like the strange seer that you are, which oddly hasn’t happened yet. To put it simply so you can understand it, don't talk with him except for work matters. Until you lose all those feelings you have, do .not .see .Spike!" Angel explained.

Xander gave out a revolted look and shook his head rejecting, "No, I won’t do that!"

Angel growled furiously and grabbed Xander's arms powerfully in attempt to shake him hard. But his hold loosened as his hands went through the youth's body. He stared angrily at Xander's cool eyes. "Do you have any idea what Spike would feel if he knew about your little feelings, he'd be hurt coz the person he considered his best friend only wants him for his ass!"

Angel's outburst slapped something inside of Xander. The older brunet thought he wanted to use Spike and lose him, but he did not want that, he wanted something more than that. "No, I …" He tried to defend himself before Angel cut him off.

"People had been using Spike for God knows how long; I was on the top of the lest. He’s tired of people using him and for him to think that *you* of all people are doing it, it will break his heart and he wouldn’t trust anyone for a long time. You saw how he got after what ‘your friends’ did."

Looking at the ground, Xander whispered brokenly, "But I …"

Angel sighed. "I know you don't mean that, but Spike is going to be too wounded to think about it. Instead of helping him, you're hurting him Xander."

Xander looked up at him angry, "But if I don't show a lot, it will hurt him too, he said so!"

"Don't worry, I’ll help you there," Angel spoke honestly; he had no intention of ruining Spike and Xander's friendship, he just didn't want to lose his lover, simple as that. "You just keep your distance from him."

Xander looked down miserably still thinking about it. He didn't want to use Spike, he was not like that. But what if Spike found out about his feelings and thought he was using him? His best friend would be hurt; Xander knew that Spike would never survive another blow especially from someone he trusted wholly.

Angel moved toward him putting a hand on the young man's shoulder. "If you care about him, Xander, you'll do this."

Xander bit his lip. "I care."

Angel nodded. "I know."

Thinking about it, Xander knew it was the right thing to do. He shook Angel's hand off his shoulder and looked directly into the older man's eyes. "Alright, you're right. It would hurt him."

"That's what I was saying." Angel gave him a smile.

The soul heaved a big sigh. "I'll do it. I'll get rid of those feelings and Spike will never know a thing then everything will go back to normal." He nodded his head trying to convince himself that he could do it.

Angel tried to reach the younger man's arm but knew that any comfort would be rejected, again, especially from him. "It's for the best," he muttered faintly hoping upon everything that Spike would never find out about what he was doing.

Not meeting the other brunet's eyes, Xander nodded, "Yeah," he sighed again and started disappearing. "See ya, Angel."

With Xander vanishing, Angel stood alone in the room feeling slightly guilty, the sad look on Xander's face, particularly while thinking that he would hurt his best friend, broke Angel's heart not to mention added a few hours in his brooding schedule. He knew he was harsh on the boy but he couldn't help his insecurities being afraid of losing Spike any minute with Xander around. He had promised that he would keep them together what ever the cost. He wished that Xander understood the way he felt. Loving someone needed some sacrifices, Darla taught them that today. And Angel knew Spike deserved any sacrifice he could make, because he was worth it.

~Part: 28~

Spike was going in and out of gameface, causing the baby in his arms to giggle and raise his hands for the fangs before they disappeared.

Fred then started cooing and making funny vampire faces to attract the baby's attention while the newly born child just looked at her with confusion.

"I think that's enough baffling the child, my dear." Wesley pulled away his girlfriend. Fred pouted, she wanted to play some more.

"Yeah Fred and you also don't want those weird faces you were making to freeze, do you?" Cordelia asked with her hands on her hips as she and Gunn came through the main entrance.

Fred gaped before touching her face. "It won't… right?" she asked Wesley worried.

Cordelia hid her smirk. Spike rolled his eyes at her and tried to reassure Fred, "Not to worry, pet, it won't. And even if they do they were absolutely adorable, right Percy?!" He gave the Watcher a significant look.

Wesley nodded distracted. "Yes, of course Spike." He glanced longingly at the office, getting a dreamy look on his face about the time he would spend with his books researching Angel's son. He was so distracted he missed to correct Spike about his name, again.

"Don't blame Fred for likin' the little tyke, he's damn cute!" Gunn peek-a-booed behind a bag he held.

"Oi, don't bleadin swear in front of the munchkin!" Spike said indignant.

Cordelia frowned. "And what you just said wasn't swearing, how?"

Spike fluttered and tried to change the subject. "Err, did you bring the little one his formula? His little tummy has been growling."

Cordelia took the bag Gunn had and waved it before heading off with Fred to the kitchen to mix some milk for the baby.

"You know, Blondie. The growlin' could be coz he has vampire in 'im don't ya think?" Gunn tried to attract the baby's attention but the little one was busy yawning.

Spike raised an eyebrow and tilted his head looking down closely at the child. "No… completely human as far as I can sense."

"Interesting, and how to you know that for sure, Spike?" Wesley asked curious. He would make sure to write everything Angel and Spike said afterwards.

Spike looked at him complementing the question. "Well you know, many things tell me that. For one thing, he looks like a human kid, and 'e smells like one also. His heartbeat tells he's human; too coz human beings' hearts beat differently than any other creature. So, yeah, all that tells me 'e's human. Though 'is grip is kind of strong…" the vampire trailed off looking at where the newly born was gripping his finger.

Wesley took all of that in. "That is really fascinating, Spike. Perhaps you and Angel might tell me more later on?"

Spike nodded. "Sure, hey, where is Angel anyway?"

"Right here," Angel answered coming down from top of the stairs. He smiled as he saw his son safely in the arms of his lover. When Spike smiled back warmly, Angel's doubts of what he had done vanished. He looked around for someone. "Hey, Gunn; thanks for cleaning the hotel from those bugs and cameras." Gunn nodded in return. "Do I need to ask how you knew how to do that by the way?" The dark skinned man smiled significantly which caused the vampire to nod and smile in thanks.

Angel walked until he was behind Spike and placed his arms around his two boys. Spike let out a relieved sigh before leaning back.

"Aww, don't y'all look adorable!" Fred squealed when she and Cordelia came back. Cordelia was holding a baby bottle and shaking it.

Spike looked offended. "Oi, I'm not fu… uh adorable! I'm bad and sexy!"

Angel licked Spike's ear. "Yes, you are," he whispered, but not low enough that they all hadn't heard him.

"Damn man, get a room," Gunn said in good humor. It was good to see Angel in good spirits and not trying to kill everyone at the same time.

Angel tickled his son's belly to keep him awake enough to drink the bottle Cordelia gave them. He frowned. "He needs something to wear other than my coat."

Cordelia gave him a shinning smile. "That's why you're always glad you have me around!" And produced a tiny baby outfit and a fresh diaper and said, "That way you won't get baby poop on your precious coat."

Angel let go of Spike and hugged his friend hard. "Did I tell you how much I love you, Cord?!"

Gunn stood next to Spike crossing his arms. If it were a couple of months ago he would make a fuss, but since Angel had a new 'boyfriend' he let it slide. He didn't want to be labeled as the jealous type. He looked at the blond beside him and said, "Left for a coat, man. Now that's low."

Spike sighed. "Yeah, now I have to raise this kid all alone. What ya think we make the best of things and hook up? I've always been found of the tall, dark handsome type."

Gunn quickly caught on while Fred and Wesley watched amused. "You know, man, I'm always open for new things in life. And you're not hard on the eyes with those cheekbones and blue eyes, but I gotta say if we were to hook up you gotta loose the bleach it makes my nose itch."

Spike nodded. "I'm willing to compromise…"

"That's enough you two! You have made your point!" Angel growled and pulled Spike to his side.

"And you, Blond-boy. You better keep your fangs where they belong!" Cordelia glared while putting Gunn's arms around her waist.

"Oh believe me, I know where they belong, Princess," Spike said leering at Angel.

"Eww!" Cordelia scrunched her face.

"Oh, Cordy you weren't saying that when we talked about them..." Fred stopped when she found several eyes on her. Cordelia was giving her the 'shut up' look. Spike looked smug and Angel, Wesley and Gunn looked shocked.

Luckily for Fred, she was saved with someone entering the hotel. "Hey, Lorne didja know Angel has a son?!"

Lorne looked wide-eyed at Angel and over at Spike beside him and then down at the baby in his arms sucking on a bottle of milk. He grinned. "Way to keep the figure, Blue-eyes!"

"Not me, Pillock!"

Angel placed his hand on his lover's shoulder and squeezed gently, calming him down like Angelus used to do to William in the old days. "Long story, Lorne. Fred will fill you up later, I'm sure. Now who's your friend?" He indicated towards the woman standing next to the green demon.

Fred looked the girl up and down while Lorne explained her situation, noticing her hand on her friend's arm; she glanced at Spike who gave her the 'later' signal.

"… so Laura's reading proved to me that she was indeed in danger, hunted sort of speak, by someone or something, whoever they were I couldn't see. And I was thinkin' since she's endangered I should take her to the safest place I know," Lorne finished smiling at the dark haired woman by his side.

Angel, who was leaning against the desk, looked intrigued. "Do you know who these people are and why they're after you? That would make our job easer."

Spike looked up from where he and Fred were cooing over a now fully clothed baby intrigued at her answer.

Laura bit her lip worried and glanced at Lorne. He covered the hand still on his arm with his other hand and squeezed it encouragingly. "It's okay, Sugar." Fred's eyes widened when she heard Lorne use the nickname he usually used for her for the new woman. "You need to tell them everything you know. These are my friends and they're gonna do everything they can to help a damsel in distress such as yourself."

Laura sighed in relief and nodded looking back at Angel. "Well, I have no idea who is after me, you see, but I think I know why they're after me…"

Wesley looked up from taking his notes. "Yes?"

"Well, you see, my family has always been gifted… in spiritual aspects so to speak. Our blood flows with ancient powers that allow us to easily trek into many practices; seeing the future, the past, reading minds and handling magic is easer to us than normal people." Laura took in a deep breath.

"It maybe vulgar to ask, but do you have ancestral roots connected to the gypsy folk?" Wesley asked.

Laura nodded. "Yes, I do, but the power comes way before them."

Spike looked at Angel when the gypsy thing was mentioned. For the passer's eye it looked like the older vampire hadn't been affected by that mention, but Spike wasn't a normal passer-by and he noticed his lover flinch. Even after a hundred years that issue was still a tender subject in Angel's memories.

"So do ya like have special powers?" Fred attracted the gray-eyed woman's attention.

Laura smiled. "No, and that's the strange thing. I don't practice it… any of it, magic, tricks or the simple mind melding. I never delved in that sort of thing, I never had the knack for it, you know. My family never accepted that I didn't want to be like them, that I turned my back on their ways," she said sadly. Lorne looked at her compassionately, remembering how his own family shunned him when he refused to follow their ways. He held her close wanting to protect her and not knowing from where those feelings had emerged.

"I'm interested in something else. Are your people using their powers for good or evil?" Wesley interrupted Lorne's comfort session.

Laura shrugged. "The lines of good and evil when it comes to the powers are fine and foggy for many; it's easy to pass over it when one is careless."

Spike nodded agreeing. He still shuddered whenever he thought about what Willow had almost accomplished with the resurrecting spell she was performing to bring back Xander and Buffy. He whished he hadn't convinced Xander to tell him what happened in Sunnydale since now he couldn't look at Willow without thinking it. He had seen it before. An act of the power done in the conception of good resulting in a series of dangerous chain reactions almost always ending with the follower lost in the darkness or dead, sometimes both. He was never as thankful for The Powers That Be as when Xander was lucky enough to stop her. He did not dare conceive of what would have happened if the redhead had completed her spell in success. Spike jerked his head up and looked around.

~ Where *is* Xander? ~ He concentrated on calling his friend but nothing happened. He sighed and reserved to do it later.

"I really don't know what they want with me since I have no experience in magic and the mind whatsoever," Laura said tearfully. Lorne held her sportingly.

"So Book-guy, why do you think they're after sweetness here?" Lorne asked the ex-Watcher.

Wesley rubbed his eyes. They haven't had much sleep since the incident with Darla and here comes a new case. He sighed. "I assume they want to use her dormant power. Raw energy that hasn't been used is the most powerful kind especially if it came from an ancient bloodline. I believe you did the wise thing of bringing her here, Lorne. We can keep her safe as well as find who are after her… Uh, that is if that's fine with you Angel?"

Angel dragged his eyes to Wesley. "Sure, it's what we do, right? But tell me Wes, who do you think is after her… or can I have a *wild* guess?"

Gunn shook his head. "Oh, no, man! Not them again! Hey, it's not nice to pass judgment so quickly you know."

Cordelia tapped her boyfriend's back. "There, there, honey. But you have to admit they're always behind it one way or another."

"Who are *they*?" Laura asked looking around confused at the grave expression on everybody's faces.

"Wolfram & Hart," Spike supplied venomously.

"Isn't that a law firm?"

"Yeah, Sugar, they are, but a tad more on the dark side than your run-of-the-mill evil lawyers." Lorne looked as serious about this as the others. He still hadn't forgotten the last time they came across the W&H, Spike was tortured, brutally. He looked at the lovely gray-eyed woman by his side and promised himself that he will not see her go through that.

"I say we meet here tomorrow? We cannot accomplish anything as tired as we are," Wesley suggested. Everyone nodded agreeing.

"If my lady with come with moi I'll escort her to her quarters." Lorne gave Laura his arm and she took it giggling.

Cordelia took hold of Gunn's the same way and before they headed out she said, "Oh and Angel, by the stairs is a bag with some baby clothes and bag filled with diapers and formula."

Angel looked up from where he was helping Spike who was holding the sleeping baby in his arm grateful. "Cord, did I tell you…"

Spike cut him off, "Are we gonna go through that again?" he asked pointedly looking at Gunn.

Angel noticed and furiously shook his head. "Nope, nothing to go through, thanks Cordy, g'night Cordy!"

Wesley smiled, picked up some books and kissed Fred on her forehead. "Sleep well." Fred gave him a grin. "And you mister better not be reading those musty things, you sleep!" She however kissed him smack on the lips in front of everyone causing the poor ex-Watcher to blush deeply.

"Um, yes, of course, shall we go?" he addressed Cordelia and Gunn before exiting with them.

Spike, Angel, Fred, Lorne and Laura went up the stairs together. Angel not forgetting to pick up the bags that Cordelia had left. Laura glanced at the baby in Spike's arms and smiled. She noticed Angel looking at her so she pointed at the sleeping boy. "He's absolutely adorable."

Angel smiled back. "Isn't he?!" The others rolled their eyes as Angel emitted 'proud parent' all over the hotel.

"Well this is our floor." Spike pulled Angel away from the woman and towards their room slamming the door shut behind them.

******

"I don't like her," Spike blurted out the minute he shut the door.

Angel rolled his eyes, took his slumbering son out of his Childe's arms and gently placed him on top of the bedcovers. "She's just a client, Spike. Someone that needs our help, I really don't see why you have to like or not like her." He turned around to look at his lover.

Spike huffed. "There's a vibe about her."

"Oh, so you're sensing vibes now?" Angel asked amused.

Spike glared. "No need to be witty, Peaches!" he growled angrily.

Angel raised a finger to his mouth but it was too late. A soft sound started before intensifying into a loud wail. The tall vampire looked sharply at his companion. "Now look what you've done." Angel bent down to the baby's level and tried to calm the flaying child with no avail.

"He's still bawling," Spike pointed out.

"Oh gee, you think! He's in tears because of you, now you make him stop." Angel pointed a finger at the little noise maker.

"Coz of me?!" Spike's eyes widened.

"Yeah! Coz you got all riled up jealous that Laura was simply talking to me."

"Gawd! You bloody prick… do you think of yourself that much?" Spike growled stepping up to face Angel.

Angel opened up his arms in mockery. "I was only pointing out the obvious."

Spike donned his gameface out of anger. He couldn't believe Angel's audacity. "Was it obvious? Coz I frankly didn’t notice it? So she bloody well talked to you, big whoop! I was worried coz she's clearly taken up interest in a dear close friend of mine and everything in me screams bad news… that's what I'm bloody well riled at! Not you!"

Angel blinked and opened his mouth to say something but nothing came out result of the shock that Spike's words had affected him. That was good because then he was able to hear… nothing. He looked at Spike who was holding the same expression on his face as he imagined he was, then as one they turned their eyes downwards towards the bed.

There lay a bright blue eyed baby blinking up at them. He giggled and began waving his tiny chubby arms towards Spike. Spike looked at Angel questionably who only nodded to him encouragingly. The blond shrugged and drew closer to the child so close his head almost leveled the baby's.

It took a few seconds, for the toddler only gaped up at the vampire before squealing happily and ran its hands over his bumps and fangs playfully. Spike picked him so he could easily reach his face and stood up grinning at Angel.

"Hehe, it seems we know what to do when this thing goes off again."

Angel fixed his eyes on the two wanting to brand that picture into his mind. He figured with as much bad pictures that are in there, if he had enough good ones they could overlap them. He walked slowly towards them circling, his long arms around the two and kissed Spike fully on the lips, letting go to the temptation and licking over his fangs.

"Don't blame the kid. Just looking at you leads a person into silent appreciation." He ran a hand over his face lovingly.

The look on Spike's face could only be described as shocked shyness, a truly rare thing to see on a vampire's real face. True to character Spike could not leave it at that.

"See there kiddo, now you should learn Daddy's knack with sayin' the right words at the perfect time."

Angel growled and whispered in Spike's ear, "Was it so wrong of me to get turned on when you called me daddy?"

Spike raised his scarred eyebrow. "It never was wrong before," he said leering.

Angel breathed hard and leaned in… to end up face first in the tiny palm of his newly born baby boy's hand. Angel groaned and sat on the edge of his bed, his face in his hands.

"We're so screwed."

"Not from where I'm standing." Spike held back a laugh looking down at Angel's miserable form.

The two and a half century old vampire peaked up from his hands. "Are you gonna leave me coz I can't…" He waved his arm. "Satisfy you?"

Then at that moment, he lost all sense of control and the blond vampire exploded into a fit of laughter with the child in his arms joining in squealing at the cackling vampire.

Spike straddled Angel's lap with the baby still in his arms. Angel reflexes kicked in and his arms twined around him, securing him in his hold. However, his eyes jumped from the still giggling baby to Spike's and back warningly. Spike smiled at him dotingly and dipped down for a soft kiss. "Liam, I love you… but you are a git," he said returning back into his handsome human features.

Angel smiled and rested his head against Spike's. Closing his eyes he whispered, "I never thought I could love anyone as much as I love you, Wil." He caressed his lover's face with his fingers, feeling a sense of calmness he had never experienced before. With his beloved in his arms and his son's warmth nestled between them, Angel prayed with his soul to whoever was listening to spare him once in his eternity and allow him to keep this, to keep them.

Spike quietly pulled back and gazed into Angel's face until two dark soulful eyes opened.

"I can't speak for the dozin' Munchkin, but I ain't goin' nowhere." He smirked knowingly then slowly got up and gently, so not to wake the sleeping child, placed the resting bundle in the middle of the bed. Spike lay beside him and looked down at him adoringly.

~ I'm a da now! ~

Somehow that thought excited him and frightened him in equal extents. "Doesn't he look a bit big for his age?" Spike asked Angel absentmindedly, trying to remember something important but getting nothing.

Angel moved up the bed so he was resting against the headboard. "I think Wes said something about him growing faster in Darla then usual." Angel distinctly remembered the ex-Watcher mentioning that though he was too distracted watching Xander watching his lover to catch every word. "We're going to take him tomorrow night to this special hospital we know and check him up."

Spike's brows knotted and looked up from the tiny form. "You trust 'em?" he asked suspiciously worrying about the boy's welfare.

Angel smiled noting Spike's worry with glee. "Yeah… We went there a few times before. It's demon and human friendly facilities. The physician in charge is a friend of Lorne who we helped out once… so now he gives us discounts whenever one of us needs a suspicious stitching, he's really good!"

Spike snorted. "You're still an old cheapskate."

Angel looked indignant. "Hey, I told you before; I was born in different times. It's really hard to adjust to the expensive prices now."

"Oh and I wasn't?" Spike smirked. "Just admit it, luv. You're just a little too protective about your wallet."

Angel pouted which caused Spike to emit a low laugh. "You're not going to get it, Pet." He leaned over making sure not to disturb the baby between them and kissed him softly on the lips. "But even with your faults, I still love ya."

Angel smiled widely. Spike halted in silence; then traced his fingertips over the parted lips. "Gods you don't know how gorgeous you look with one of those rare smiles lightening up your face."

Angel kissed the fingers his eyes locked with Spike's. "You're going to see more of it from now on… that you're with me forever."

"Yeah…" Spike's eyes suddenly widened. "Forever! Now I remember," he said sitting back against the headboard with a thoughtful look on his face. That one word always reminded him of something, no someone, connected to it.

"What?" Angel asked worriedly.

"Xander," Spike whispered still lost in thoughts about his eternal friend.

Angel was glad Spike didn't notice him quiver as that mention reminded of what he had done and acted as if he was holding back a groan, which was always his reaction whenever Spike mentioned Xander. "Oh, what about him now?" He amazingly kept a straight face and tone.

"He disappeared… and when I called for 'im 'e didn't show." Spike sighed. "I hope he didn't get his knickers in a twist when I scolded for almost dropping the kid."

Angel waved away that thought. "Nah, Xander wouldn't get upset over that… he's used to someone yelling at him from time to time."

"Well, 'e bloody shouldn't be!" Spike barely held back his roar but couldn't help the swearing. Thankfully, only a faint movement came from the bundle in the middle. Angel gave a relived sigh and thanked all the Gods he knew for their mercy. He then heard the low whispered words.  "I don't want to be one of 'em."

Angel turned towards his lover to watch him miserably looking at his hands resting on his lap. His eyes softened and he looked away guiltily. He was still amazed to think that his Childe, his William, had a soul. He had always been emotional when he became attached to something, the most evident verification of that was his leather duster that hung by the door. And that wouldn't cover how strongly he got attached to a real person. The only thing that Angel had noticed that demonstrated the soul's existence was Spike's declined bloodlust and a few nightmares and bouts of guilt. For some, it would seem many, but not for Angel. It was exceedingly less than what he had experienced upon receiving his soul. He did not know if it had something to do with Spike having people to support him or that he understood now that he was fully soulless and that the demon was in control. That he had been a whole vampire following its nature when he committed his crimes. Perhaps, it was for both those reasons or as far as Angel knew it was something altogether else.

That, however, didn't help but intensify the guilty feeling Angel was experiencing. He had never liked Xander Harris much, but had never truly hated him either. It would surprise many if they knew that he had respected the young man when he had been in Sunnydale, and more now for the sacrifice he had made to be with Spike, doing so with a selfless decision that would cause him an eternity alone, someday.

Angel also had feared him to an extent. He had feared him and that fear must have translated into hate sometimes, because for Angel, Xander was more worthy to be with Buffy at that time. And now he feared him even more so since he found his true and eternal love, his mate, his soul mate, his Wil. Again, Xander was there as the best friend, the trusted companion more than he was when he had accompanied the Slayer. Nevertheless, since the stakes were higher this time than ever before Angel dared to do something he was not nor ever will be proud of.

He had used Xander's genuine feelings towards Spike and asked him, or in truth if one sought it, he told him, to stay away form the blond vampire and made Xander feel that it would be his fault if Spike got hurt. That act added more weight to his guilt ridden shoulders but the prize in the end was worth it.

However, now his reason, his lover, Spike, was saddened with guilt in fear that he had caused his friend pain and by that drove him away from his company. Angel held a growl when he heard Spike compare himself to them; Xander's parents. Angel's wasn't blind nor deaf, he knew about how Xander's father treated him and how his mother looked the other way and that had added more to his admiration of the boy… no, man! His thoughts were cut short by Spike's painful whispering.

"Never wanna harm 'im again." Angel's eyes snapped up and ran over Spike's face while the younger vampire continued, "It was my fault he died in the first place, and now I'm driving him away again."

Angel frowned then carefully got up and around the bed, sat on the other side of it where Spike was and held him. Spike sighed and hid his face in his lover's chest inhaling the comforting scent of his mate.

The brunet vampire ran his fingers through the soft blond locks giving his boy the comfort he needed. A small smile graced his lips knowing that the only reason Spike stopped slicking his hair completely because Angel loved to run his hand through his washed hair whispering how sexy he was before making love resulting in needing to use the shower again where Angel would often join him. However, that moment the only thing Spike put out was not his usual buoyant self, something that used to always annoy Angel before but not now, and sex appeal but anguish. He knew it was up to him now to make things better since in away he was responsible to Spike feeling that way.

"Wil, I thought you were over that. It wasn't your fault that these demons, whom strangely we still couldn't find a track of, attacked you two."

Spike raised his head and Angel's heart contracted as the tear filled eyes looking into his. He could still remember how Spike was those first weeks after Xander's death and how Spike was acting. He feared they would return yet again as he remembered with wretchedness how Spike had avoided him.

"But that's where we were all wrong." Spike's eyes glazed over as he explicated to Angel an event not long ago.

*Flashback*

The tapping of heeled shoes slowly brought him out of a dreamless oblivion. Spike raised his head painfully. With notable pain he pried his eyes open. Approaching from the far side of the room where he remembered seeing a door there, before he had been given graciously a dose of holey water in the eyes, was a smartly dressed woman. She scrunched her nose and carefully stepped over several blood puddles along the way. She stopped about a meter away from Spike, and frowned when she found no place to put her case down on with out getting blood stains on it.

"I really have to tell Carl to be tidy next time," she mumbled.

Spike snorted which was a hard thing to do with a broken nose. "I'll try to make sure not to bleed next time if that would help," he said with a scratchy voice.

Lilah raised an eyebrow looking at him as if she hadn't noticed him until just then.

"Oh, Spike how's it hangin'?"

Spike tried to move his chained dangling arms, but failed from over exhaustion that usually came with being tortured non stop.

"Funny, Bitch, very funny! Ha bloody ha."

"I try." Lilah smirked surveying the room. "At least you got the bloody part right."

"Oh, I see you swerved around the bitch thing." Spike licked his lips winching when he passed over a cut.

The lawyer flung back her hair. "I try not to listen to negative words… Now if you were cooperative then you wouldn't have gone through these displeasures and things could run a lot more smoothly around here," she said evenly.

"Oh, then it's my bad that I got tortured… bollocks and here I thought it's coz you sicced your goons on me!" Spike retorted sarcastically.

Lilah tsk-ed shaking her head. "I really don't know why you're so against what I'm proposing, Spike. We have it in record that you cared deeply for Angelus. And yet here you are not willing to bring him back."

Spike barely refrained from asking why the in hell does the law firm have records of his feelings concerning Angelus and said instead, "Yeah, well I was always love's bitch."

"Don't you want it back? With the chip removed you two can make history again and literally paint the town red," she said enticingly.

Spike thoughts whorled in his head. How could Lilah ask him that? Didn't she know that he wasn't like that anymore? That in fact he had a soul now? He reached the conclusion within a beat.

~ Bloody bitch doesn't know I joined the soul parade. And something tells me it's better if she never finds out ~ Spike knew he had to distract Lilah with something.

"Nah; got me a taste of the real thing. Same face and body, but without the over excuse torture, which virtues are overrated with that bloke, and if I may say so the shagging is twice as better… so no. No way will I be giving up all of it for that crazy loon!"

"You talk a lot, vampire. But I'm not hearing what I want!" She smirked. "You always were hard to get aren't you. You cost the law firm a lot of money, which I had to pay from my own account coz it failed, the second you set foot in this town."

Spike glared at her. "What are you babbling about you fucking bint?! Get to the bleedin' point!"

Lilah looked at him from under extended lashes. "Well let's just say if you had come along like a good little vampire your pretty brown eyed friend wouldn't be playing hide and seek with Casper."

Spike gave her a confused look. "What …"

"We hired a lot of people to get you, from a bunch of vampires to a rare species of demons, but *damn* you always get away," Lilah explained shaking her head.

Spike's lips trembled as he looked down wide eyed. "You mean those …"

Lilah nodded. "Yep, the girl who needed help, she didn't need your help at all. It was all an act to lead you to the trap where you'll meet our magic-controlled demons. We controlled them to capture you alive and that didn't include the boy so they didn't hesitate to kill him. The bad news for us was that our magic controller forgot to defuse their survival instinct those demons had the need to stay alive just like the rest of us and so they skedaddled when you began chopping them up."

She waved her hand. "But don't you worry; we made them pay for their cowardice." Lilah stopped talking and smirked at the shocked look Spike had. She didn't lose the smirk as she turned around and exited the room. Spike faintly heard her talking with Carl but his mind had gone astray with his thoughts.

In fact it was actually more like a one painful thought. ~ Xander died coz of me! ~

*End Flashback*

Angel was struck into silence by his Childe's revelation. A low keening voice rose from the vampire now borrowing into his chest as if trying to hide there. Angel held him tightly and laid his head atop his.

"Hush, Little One. That insignificant human's words mean nothing." Angel sensed that Spike was going to interrupt so he quickly continued, "Mean nothing to change the fact that you weren't responsible. But she was, IS, responsible. It wasn't your fault Spike."

Spike raised his head and Angel's eyes filled up with tears at the sight of his mate's face wet showing his pain. "How can you say…?"

Angel placed his finger against the pouty lips to silence him. "Remember what you told me about what you and Xander talked about when he first came back?" Spike nodded remembering how Xander insisted telling him that it wasn't his fault which eventually he had believed, but did that change now? "That doesn't change now, Spike," Angel whispered licking the tears away. "The only thing that changes is that we have someone to put the blame on." He smiled at the slowly calming blond in his arms.

"But we're gonna make the bitch pay right?" Spike asked in a somewhat childlike voice.

Angel nodded getting a smirk on his face much like Angelus'. "Oh you bet she's gonna pay not to mention her fucking handyman Carl!"

Spike purred rubbing his nose with Angel's. "You know how I love it when you're all vengeful like, luv."

Angel's arms rose to bold the blond head still so he would kiss those tempting pink lips but grabbed into nothing. Angel looked up to see Spike by the bathroom door leering.

"What are you doing there Spike?"

Spike cocked his head. "Waiting for you to get a hint and follow me before the little Munch wakes up, unless you have a problem with that?" The blond blinked as he ran his tongue over his lip.

Angel was shaking his head hard as he moved towards the tempting blond who fluttered his eyelashes and pouted his lips alluringly. The older vampire knew that was how Spike usually dealt with his problems, and he was a willing helper! Angel growled and grabbed at him quickly before he slipped away and gave him a long passionate kiss that ended with a smack. He pulled the younger vampire behind him into the bathroom roughly, although he took extra care in closing the bathroom door.

The bathroom was quite larger than it seemed from the outside. It seemed like it had been built for the use of two people. Spike quickly unbuttoned the far too numerous fastenings on Angel’s black silk shirt, pushing the soft material back from the older vampire's chest and shoulders. He shed his black tee-shirt with a quick, casual movement. At the same time, being they practiced that a lot, they unbuckled each other's pants and let them fall to the ceramic floor. Spike bent down to take off his docs and the pants in sequence. Angel mimicked his movement while his eyes hungrily devoured his lover's exposed body.

They stood facing each other and Spike looked at Angel's who was still boxer covered. "You know, luv. Going commando could…"

Angel cut him off, "I've told you more than once, Wil, no! It isn't like I haven't tried it… I just don't feel comfortable wearing nothing under my pants."

Spike stuck his lower lip out. "Well I don't think this is a good time for silk boxers, do you? As faltering as they are on you… they *will* cramp my style."

Angel's eyes flashed, he wanted that lip. Spike took a step back and pouted more at the evil shorts. Faster than a mortal eye could follow Angel had them off, thrown in a corner and had pulled Spike by the hand to him biting down at the protruded lip, electing a moan from the smaller vampire when his tongue found access to his.

The taller vampire's other hand found its way to the blond's lower back and he held a firm butt cheek in his palm and slowly massaged it. Spike's arms had woven themselves around the brunet's waist, and he had his hands run up and down over his Sire's sides engorging his actions. Angel still holding Spike's hand slowly had them moving towards the walk-in shower; together they stepped in facing each other.

“Turn around Wil.”

Spike did just that and rested his hands against the wall for support knowing what was going to happen. Angel soaped up his hands, ran his slicked hands over the blond's back and slowly cleaned him as well as enjoyed the feel of his mate's silky skin and rippling muscles under his them.

“Have I told you how beautiful you are, Wil?” the tall vampire whispered in Spike's ear.

Spike nodded distracted when Angel's skilled hands twisted around his waist spreading the foam over his taut stomach and up to his chest. Angel, even in his evil days as Angelus, had loved to take his time in washing his boy. For Angelus it was a way for him to personally acquaint himself with his masterpiece of property but for Angel it was that and more. For the soul-ed vampire it was a time, other than when they were making love, where he felt most connected with his mate. In soothing circular movements white foamy soup was covering his lover's chest. Spike closed his eyes loosing himself in the gentle relaxing touch and the soft words whispered in his ear. He remembered this time with his lover's ultra evil ego, where his sire had cherished his body in other ways than painting it red, as the most peaceful times of his unlife. When his Sire had left him it had been one of the few things he had missed about their time together.

His eyes snapped open as he yelped a moan. Behind him he could feel Angel smirk against his shoulder. His Sire's fingers gently tweaked the nipples he had just pinched hard.

"Back to the land of the non-living my love?" a question whispered over his claiming mark caused a jolt to start on the top of his spine to quickly spread into his painfully lengthening member. That wasn't a bad thing since he wasn't the only one 'suffering' if the thing poking him in the back meant anything.

Spike leaned his head back to rest on Angel's shoulder when a slick finger ran along his crack unnecessary breaths coming in gasps.

Angel rubbed himself against his lover's body. Angel writhed sinuously against him. "Oh God," Spike mumbled as the older vampire's lips began to nibble along his collar bone. "Don't stop."

Angel with no intention of stopping in his mind had his hands glided over the lithe soup slippery skin. He cupped the blond's buttocks and pulled Spike hard against him. "Want you," he hissed. "Want you now."

"You have me," Spike responded with unnecessary breathless gasps.

Hearing that Angel pushed in with one hard thrust Spike arched his back to accommodate him. The shorter vampire gasped as he relished the burning sensation when Angel hit that sweet spot just right and he felt himself swell even more. He pushed back and rocked quickly with his lover's even thrusts.

Angel sensed his mate's need for a quick release and as he felt the body in front of him tighten around him he knew Spike wouldn't last much longer. The blond was arching so hard his head was nestled in Angel neck while his hands against the wall still supported him. Making sure that they were well propped up Angel resumed thrusting more urgently and had his soaped hand wrapped firmly around Spike's erection pumping it with equal urgency. Twin growls filled the sultry air of the room.

Feeling himself nearing his peek as well Angel slipped into his game face as they continued moving together in tune. An inch over his bite mark he whispered in a growl, "If anyone lays a hand on you in other than a friendly way they're going to loose it."

Spike nodded too close to be able to respond.

With a last growled, "MINE!" Angel bit down and thrust hard.

Reflexively Spike arched his back and growled back, "Yours!" as he donned his vampire face as well. In front of him a wrist was presented which he took with no second though biting hard into it to muffle his screamed release. Angel followed him not a second late the stimulation of the tightening of silken walls around him and the bite pushing him over the edge.

Panting Spike rested his forehead against the cold wall. Angel had his hands wrapped loosely around Spike's waist while his head remained nuzzling his mate's neck, also breathing hard. With a grunt Spike pushed himself off the wall and Angel pulled back. The blond turned to see the tall vampire exit the shower a few seconds later he heard water running in the bathtub. Angel returned and Spike greeted him with as smile and a lingering kiss.

Spike let out a giggle when he felt a washcloth rubbing over his lower back. He reached to his back and took the item from Angel's hand. Angel frowned.

Spike waved the soupy item at him. "My turn, luv."

Angel nodded with a warm smile. "Okay, but don't linger too long around my impressive abs, I don't want the tub to over flow."

Spike rolled his eyes at the abs comment, but for the unlife of him he couldn't deny it, they were quite impressive and flawless. Remembering Angel's warning about the tub filling up he didn't take as much pleasure as he wanted in cleaning his lover. After a couple of minutes with his hands lovingly mapping as well as cleaning his love's striking body. They both pulled back, shampooed their hair not trusting the other to quickly do it, and rinsed themselves under the shower. Not wanting to be a second late Angel pulled grinning Spike after him to the nearly filled tub where the young vampire gave him an innocent look that had nothing with prolonging the cleaning process. Angel rolled his eyes as he quickly shut the water before the bathroom flooded, again.

Angel slipped into the filled tub and reached for Spike to come in. The blond carefully stepped in and laid his back against the expanse of his Sire's chest. Nearly hot water was surrounding them, soothing them. Spike rested his head against Angel and glided a hundred and some years before where an unusually kind Angelus had always invited into his bath. An uncommonly nice reverie he was having if one considered the agitation he was feeling towards a certain subject.

"Ahh … this is nice." Angel sighed closing his eyes and leaning his head backwards. He didn't feel Spike react to his words and knew that his lover was thinking of something else.

~ One guess what… or who ~

"Xander will be fine, Spike," Angel whispered soothing the younger vampire calmly stroking his arm.

"I just hope he's not upset."

"Oh c'mon, Xander is rock-hard. He never gets hurt easily." Which was true, emotionally not physically, because God knew how many times that boy had gotten hurt while fighting beside the Slayer, not even mentioning the event of his death. But emotionally, the only time Angel saw the damaged look on the young man's face was… well just some hours ago.

"Well, he tends to hide his feelings behind those stupid jokes. Sometimes he flashes you one of 'is idiot grins and inside there's just too much pain."

"Is that right?" The older vampire couldn't help the guilt that spurted in him.

"Yeah, boy's not much of a talker when it comes to 'is feelings."

~ Well, the boy forgot about this rule when he *told* me about his true feelings! ~ Angel mentally scoffed. "Funny, since he tends to let loose him mouth a lot."

The brunet smiled when he heard Spike chuckle at his joke. "I know," the younger vampire replied before he laid his head back on his Sire's shoulder where it nestled perfectly. "'Just do' want 'im to get hurt, not after what I told you."

Angel hugged his love to him tightly. "Everything will be alright, Wil, don't worry." And he silently hoped so. That everything will be alright and for Xander to forgive him. "Everything will turn out fine in the end," he whispered.

~ It has to… ~

******

"You were right they were really nice considering they were vampires."

"Two of them are at least and yep, my friends rarely suck on human blood these days." Lorne refrained from telling her about them having souls. That was because Angel had told everyone including the Sunnydale people that no one must find out about the new development concerning Spike. "And here we are my sweet, your humble abode." Lorne directed her to the door.

It had taken them a while to get here as they had dropped Fred off in her room then went back there again when they remembered that Laura hadn't any spare clothes and hadn't brought with her anything to sleep in. Another ten minutes where wasted while they tried to find the best sleeping gown, the fault mostly on Lorne who was quite picky. But finally they all settled on one which was a good fit since Laura was about Fred's height. They bid her their goodnight, again, and here they were out side her room finally.

Laura turned to the green demon with a shinning smile. "I really don't know how to thank you Lorne for all your help."

Lorne turned a shade greener which from where he came from translated into a blush. "I didn't do anything, my friends…"

She laid her hand on his cheek. "They underestimate you. But you’re the one who truly helped me, Lorne, by choosing to believe me. Thank you." With that said she leaned in and softly kissed his cheek. Her gray eyes sparkled in the dim lights of the lobby. "G'night," she said before entering her room and closing the door.

Lorne's hand slowly rose to touch his cheek. It took him a while before he realized that he wasn't breathing or blinking. He took in ragged breathes until his uncommon placed heart started beating regularly. He looked at the wooden door one last time whispering, "Goodnight," before leisurely heading towards his room.

******

"…and he's just the most adorable thing you'd ever see! I'm trying to make his first words Cordy, but Angel and Spike give me death glares every time I do that," Cordelia babbled into the phone. Gunn was polishing some weapons smiling tenderly at his yapping girlfriend.

~ Hope I won't have to buy a new phone after she melts this one by talking it to death ~

"… and now Gunn's looking at me thinking I'm gonna bust the phone, but I'm gonna pretend I didn't read his expression coz I'm in a good mood today."

Gunn held a whimper at being caught and turned his attention to the mace he almost sliced his hand open on.

"So, Cordy, you didn't tell me if this new addition to the fam has a name," came a rare reply from the other end.

"Oh God, Willow, I didn't tell you? Strange, I never get sidetracked!" A couple of eye rolls could be heard on both sides. "It's Connor… something both Angel and Spike agreed on, a good name as it is, I've given them better choices, but they're not listening. Anyways that's the name Angel wrote in his medical record when we went to see that demon doctor a week ago who is just a hotty by the way!"

Gunn raised his head to look at her indignantly. "Hey!"

Cordelia looked back at him. "You have no right for a 'hey' mister after giving the phone the sympathetic look! And besides no one can deny a truth, the guy is really cute," Cordelia said daring Gunn to disagree.

Gunn raised his hands. "I ain't gonna say anything… I'm taking the fifth!"

The actress snorted. "Gunn's afraid for his sexuality… hey Wills you appreciate a good looking guy even though you’re all gay now, right?"

"Oh yeah!" Willow replied with a giggle.

Cordelia smiled. "You sure you're not bi?"

"Cordy! Is that why you're called me? I mean I don't mind talking to you and catching up and stuff, but you kinda said somewhere an hour ago that indicated Angel was the one to tell you to call me. And as much as I don't want to dis Angel, he really doesn't like to spend a lot and this doesn't qualify as a short convo in his book you know."

Cordelia shook her head exasperated even though Willow couldn't see her. "Tell me about it, he's such a cheapskate!"

"Hey, I told you…!"

Cordelia in an uncommon show of courtesy pulled the phone away so she can yell without blowing up the witch's ear. "Angel, do *you* wanna ask Willow for legal records, huh?!"

Angel winched and closed the office door so he and Wesley could talk in peace without listening to Cordelia slandering them then yell at them for trying to defend themselves. They have all learned by now that there was no way to win against Queen C, though Spike still tries a few punches from time to time.

"So you need me to make baby Connor legal?" Willow asked in a cheery voice. She always loved to hanker on her computer. More so now than ever after she cut down on the magic, not using it unless a new Bad came into town and only when necessary. So a good distraction, especially one she liked to do, was always welcome.

"Yeah, Angel gave me all these details he wants you to include in his records and stuff. Ooh, oh, wait a sec." Cordelia stopped talking looking at the stairs where two people where descending lost in their conversation and laughs to notice her gawking at them.

Laura was apparently saying something funny since the wide smile never left Lorne's face.

"We're off to the club peeps see ya later!" Lorne announced not even knowing if there were anyone in the front lobby to hear his statement or not. He left through the front entrance with Laura's hand locked in the crock of his arm.

Gunn smiled and looked knowingly at Cordelia who snorted. "Sorry for the cut, Will. It was Lorne and his new 'ho," she said sneeringly.

On the other end a few miles away in Sunnydale Willow pulled the phone back to look at it as if it was possessed. "Um, Cordelia, what's with the dripping venom?"

"You remember Lorne right?"

Willow replied eagerly, "Sure, I do, that sweet singing demon guy who was so worried about Spike."

"Ah huh! That's what I'm talking about! Lorne is just too sweet and I'm getting a womanly intuition about this Laura. It's been a week since Wes and the guys have been looking into her case and nothing. Do you know she actually brought her bags in? She's already moved in! Not to mention she's been dangling off Lorne's arm half the time!"

"So you aren't in the populace of Trustyville then?" Willow asked intrigued.

"It's not that I'm being my usually bitchy over protective of the men around me, me, Willow. I know if I was and God knows Lorne needs someone, though we all suspected he was into the 'he' someones… but I don’t know," she sighed.

Willow hummed. "How about you send me a fax to the Magic Box with all the details Angel gave you about Connor and give me whatever you have about Laura so I can check her out later, how's that?"

Cordelia squealed. "Thank you, thank you, Willow! I'd so kiss you if you were here!"

Gunn placed his head on her shoulder finished making the various weapons sparkle. "Can I watch if you do?"

Cordelia hit him over the head. "My boyfriend's a perv," she stated.

Willow heard her and chuckled. "Aren't they all, that why I went with the girls."

Cordelia laughed. "Yeah but I love the guy so I'm just stuck with him I guess."

"Love is an essential always. I mean look at Angel and Spike, Tara said that when she saw their auras when they were together it was like they completed each other. Speaking of Tara, I've gotta meet her after her class and I'm gonna be late. Tell everyone hi from me k?"

"Sure. Go on, go, and thanks again, Willow. Bye!"

"Bye."

******

As the weeks passed Laura's dilemma couldn't be resolved by the agency and Wesley had placed her case on hold for other more egret cases that came swarming at them from their two seers. However, that wasn't much of a problem since the others fully accepted her as a part of their family.

"I don't like her," Fred stated.

Spike sighed. "I got that, pet. She can be a bit on the nerves." He grinned when Connor squealed as he tickled his tummy and tried to grab at his fingers. He looked lovingly at the baby. He cherished the serene moments that he spent with Fred looking after Connor while the others were off doing their fighting thing. He usually went with Angel when it was a nasty demon as did Angel with him, but this case was an easy one so he chose to spend some quality time with Connor and Fred.

The blond vampire had missed the special days he and his friends used to spend together so this was a good chance as any to do so. Unfortunately, Lorne declined and said that he had to go to Caritas with Laura claiming she had some interesting ideas she wanted to try and that she said that it wouldn't be fair to the people who needed the green seer's help not to find him in the sanctuary. Thus, leaving an unusual hateful Fred and an annoyed Spike to spend time making jabs at the gray-eyed woman and how she stole their friend away from them.

"I mean I can see what he sees in her, with that long dark hair, pretty face and gray eyes that fit so perfectly with her name," the young woman spat. Suddenly she looked up to see the shocked expression on Spike's face and blushed. "Oh my, that wasn't very nice of me to say about her, was it?"

Spike chuckled and shook his head. "I think not, but hey, I don't mind if you like to continue." He raised his eyebrow.

Fred smacked him with a stuffed bear. "You're a nasty, nasty man!"

Spike leered. "You know I am." That caused Fred to place her hand on her face to stop from giggling. She remembered how her mother always said that if one laughed because of kids' antics that that would only encourage them to persist and as far as Fred was concerned Spike was worse than a whole class full of children.

A few minutes later that moment had passed and they sat watching Connor take his evening nap. His first evening nap since he was surly to wake up in the wee hours in the morning with his wailing waking up the residence of the hotel.

"Is it us?" Fred whispered suddenly.

"Huh?"

"I mean it's not only Lorne that stopped talking with us, but Xander too. I mean I only speak for myself but I never see him any more and when I call he never shows I can only remember seeing him popping out to give ya some missions in the last month then doing his not there thing." She looked at Spike for assistance.

Spike's eyes held some hurt, but he answered anyway. "Well I can't speak for Xan, Pet. But Lorne is obsessed with his new 'friend' so it's not us with Red Eyes." Spike toyed with the baby pacifier and mumbled, "He's a busy soul is all." He gave that excuse not only for Fred's benefit, but his as well and the brunette saw it as clear as day on a burning vampire.

Spike remembered the many times Angel had given excuses for the dark haired guardian guide. But Spike still wanted to talk with his friend especially since Lorne was too occupied with Laura. The bleached vampire loved sweet Fred but a vamp needed a close male companion to talk to. Angel was his lover therefore it didn't count chiefly if Spike wanted to talk about his weird behavior whenever Xander's name was mentioned, Spike truly thought that Angel was over that damn kiss.

It didn't help that Xander began to pop a lot to give him cases where people needed his help, delivering his sightings. He was officially a white hat now in the underworld. Except, the boy only popped up to give the message then disappeared to where he goes with excuses that Willow informed some of her magic addict friends about him and his soothing presence and the word began to travel so now everyone wanted the warm comfort of the guardian. Of course, Spike had checked that story out with the redheaded witch and she confirmed the information. But she only said they were two or three wiccans gone dark addicts like her but she shrugged it off saying that Xander seemed quite normal, as normal as a flouting soul could be, whenever they called him… which just happened to be everyday.

~ Is that jealousy I'm feeling? ~ Before he could continue his reverie the door opened.

"Wesley!" Fred squealed as she jumped in her lover's arms kissing him so passionately that when they both separated they had redness on their cheeks.

"I'm guessing she missed you?" Angel commented playfully at his best friend before moving over to his lover's side. "Why didn't I get a welcome home from a possibly deadly fight kiss as well?" he said frowning down at an innocent looking Spike.

"Well, Luv. I would've squealed and jumped you, but other than fearing for my delicate manhood I was worried 'bout waking the little one… which she did by the way!"

True enough Connor was wide awake. Fred blushed again and mumbled 'sorry' before dashing away with Wesley after he made a hasty 'hello' at Spike. Angel sat down and scooped up his baby boy kissing his head and taking in the clean baby powder smell as well as Connor's very distinct scent mixed with Spike's own, it was perfect. He looked up to see his lover pouting at him and batting his eyelashes playfully.

Angel's eyes darkened and he leaned in for a tentative kiss that soon turned into a passionate one that lasted several minutes. Then eventfully the two vampires had to pull away because of the wiggling and giggling child in between.

"Missed you," Spike whispered.

Angel licked his lips savoring the taste of his mate. "Missed you more... love you Wil."

Spike's smile made his face light up. "Love ya too." All thoughts of Xander had vanished away with the truly loving look his Sire was casting at him.

******

"Sugarplum, you look gorgeous!" Lorne called out as his 'friend' stepped inside Caritas.
 

Laura blushed and looked down. "You say that every time I come here."

Lorne raised her palm and kissed it elegantly. "And I mean that, cross my bottom heart, you look more beautiful every time I see you. You lighten up my gloomy club, sweetness."

The gray-eyed woman giggled and slapped him playfully. "Oh you're just saying that Krevlorneswath, Caritas is wonderful!" Her eyes widened suddenly when she saw the green demon flinch.

"Oh my, did I say something wrong?" she asked worried.

Lorne smiled bitterly. "Well mentioning of my birth name serves as a bad reminder of my home world which is better left lost down memory lane."

Laura's eyes widened. "Lorne, I'm sorry!" She maneuvered him to sit on one of the numerous bar stools and sat beside him holding his hand. "I just heard the name from one of the patrons, I swear I'm not gonna mention it again, oh god I'm so sorry!"

"Is everything ok, Boss?" Willy asked from behind the bar.

Before Lorne could answer Laura cut in, "Willy could you be so kind as to get Lorne his usual sea-breeze, extra strong, thanks! Oh, and mine too."

Willy narrowed his eyes at her, but left to get the drinks for the two. Laura still holding Lorne's hand brought his attention back to her and continued with her tornado of apologies. The green demon grinned at her and told her to relax that he was well and would prove it by dancing with her to a song that a band on stage was playing.

"I promise I won't step on your pretty toes," Lorne said.

Laura looked down shyly. "I'd love to dance with you, Lorne."

The green demon stood up holding his hand to her. She took it bashfully and let him lead her to the dance floor. Laura twined her arms around his neck so that Lorne had to place his hands on her waist. They began to dance on the slow rhythm of the music lost in their own world. Looking into the grey eyes Lorne knew he was loosing him self. That he was quickly, but surely falling fast... in love with his gray-eyed beauty.
 

******

Lorne was 'busy' all the time with Laura; Spike didn't want to dwell too much on the fact that he might be loosing his friend, another one. A friend he wanted to talk with about the other friend whose stopovers were becoming none existent. Worse was that the many cases that came poring down on their heads only caused Wesley to put Laura's case on hold. The ex-Watcher explained that Wolfram & Hart didn't make any threatening moves so far concerning their resident hereditary non-practicing witch, who was not using her powers by the grounds that she 'wasn't into that'. Moreover, there were far more pressing cases at the time that needed them since both Cordelia and Xander served as quite active seers.

The ex-Watcher also begged Spike, Fred and above mentioned Cordelia to get off his back about finding a way to 'get rid of Laura' as they said, and try to get along with the poor frightened woman. Not to mention that they were also busy as it was with the Walk Ins. Even though some were less demanding of their time like that guy that sought their help for finding his lost dog, the same man who Spike frightened off by asking if the pup was lost in the bottom of a slimy pooch-demon that ate him.

Spike then was left with Angel to tell his worries about how Xander couldn't wait to leave and hang out with the Scoobies. Angel then would get that look he always got on his face when Spike bored Cordelia and Fred and chose to inflict him with the ever known subject of 'I miss Xander, why has he stopped visiting?'. And the dark vampire would then go on a long speech about how Xander was more likely enjoying that he finally had something to do that he thought was worth being done and how that was important for him. That was when Spike always tries to interrupt to be silenced by Angel saying that the only reason Xander spent a 'little' more time with his other friends than with Spike's company was because he missed them.

Angel then cunningly suggests dropping off Connor with Cordelia and Gunn or with Wesley and Fred so they can have, what he bluntly proposed, sex. To which Spike instantly forgets what they were talking about to be replaced with enjoying the sensation that Angel was inflicting to his ear with his tongue, pulls away, scoops up the feeding child, drops him off in a room a floor above where he interrupts in this case a flushed Wesley and an annoyed Fred, stops a second to leer before quickly returning to Angel and throwing him on the bed. And they proceed to make passionate love quite vocally to the displeasure of the residence of the hotel.

******

"I still think it's toxic no matter how many times I handled it and survived," Angel grumbled. Spike looked at him a half a meter away from him flabbergasted. "Many times, you? *Pfft*, don't make piss my pants from laughing too hard!"

Angel tsk-ed looking back at the blond. "But you see… that physically impossible," he said looking down at Spike's crotch. "I'm sure you can do lots of things in those tighter than tight pants of yours, but pissing is not one of them."

Spike pouted he hated to not be able to do something. He looked up from checking his goods to Angel's face intending to say something in return. He frowned and followed where Angel's gaze seemed to be locked… directly on his denim covered crotch. The blond smirked and proceeded with an 'experiment', a little side affect from hanging around Fred so long. He moved his waist in a slow circle and watched gaily as Angel's pupils followed it widening considerably.

Spike bit out a moan at the lust filled gaze that Angel directed towards what they both considered his best asset, tongue coming close in second. His, as so eloquently Angel mentioned, tight pants tightened even more and seemed that his Sire had noticed his not so little dilemma since his tongue was running sensually over dried lips.

Now it was Spike's turn to follow Angel's movement. He drew closer to the older vampire, tilting his head to that tantalizing tongue in a lip lock when a sound to his left caught his attention.

Slowly he raised his right hand and spanked Angel's ass before hitting him over the head with the diaper he held.

"Ow… what was that for?!" Angel attempted his pout. He had been practicing it for a while now.

Spike glared at him then turned his gaze, in turn Angel's that was locked with his, towards the giggling baby.

"Munchkin needs a nappy change not a bleedin' live show with his daddies." He cocked his head to the looking at Angel significantly. Angel felt his unneeded breath catch when he heard the last word. He wanted to cry from joy at Spike's acknowledgment of *their* son, but he chose to take the dignified road.

The tall vampire sighed. "If I didn't love Connor as much as I do I wouldn't be changing his diapers countless times a day." Spike could've sworn he heard a sniffle somewhere there. "Do you know how much baby diapers cost if you buy a dozen bags?" he said as he put on the squealing toddler's a clean diaper and threw the soiled one blindly at a container, easily hitting the mark.

"How would I know? I'm a kept boy." He let out an unmanly squeal as Angel suddenly pulled him into his arms and held him tightly. His mate sniffed at his neck and mumbled leisurely. "*Mmm*, you bet I'm keeping you, me boy."

******

Spike and Fred were spending the day having quality time playing with Connor, in Fred's room, while the others were researching something or another in the office downstairs. Connor was exceedingly happy with the attention he was getting from the two.

"You sure they don't need us in research?" Fred asked holding a squishy toy out of the baby's reach causing her to get deadly looks from Connor.

Spike chuckled at the antics of the two. "Nah, pet. If they need help they'll holler and it's not a full blown research assembly since Cheerleader's vision clearly said that it would be a fortnight from now."

Fred nodded remembering that. "You know it's nice to see Cordy go all floaty 'n glowy instead of falling to the floor in screeching agony." Spike nodded in agreement remembering how painful Cordelia must have felt before she became half demon. "Uh huh, we're all thankful that Xander is Cordy's guardian guide like he's yours and helped her." Fred regretted the words the second they left her mouth. The look of lose that appeared in Spike's face when she mentioned Xander's name served to remind her of how Spike looked when he thought his friend was dead and lost to him.

Before the young scientist could rectify her mistake a true manifestation of the saying 'Speak of the devil' appeared.

Xander was standing in the middle of the room. He looked at Spike and winched internally when he saw the hopeful blue eyes. The guardian guide looked everywhere but at his 'friend'.

"A Crafter demon is going to attack some college kids making out at the deserted park in the east end," he said looking at Connor instead of the blond holding him. When he received no answer he took a chance and risked looking up to get caught in the hold of two of the most beautiful azure eyes he had ever seen. The only thing marring the perfection of the blue orbs were flickers of hurtful questioning.

Xander tried to hold his emotions in check. "So, I was thinking that this is a job for the Bleached Wonder, don't you?"

Spike blinked breaking the spell. Fred who was forgotten in the midst of it all held her breath. "Huh, for a second there I thought you were talking with the Munchkin, with the whole not looking at me thing you had going on for you."

Fred turned to look at Xander, for as they say the ball was now in his court. Xander slowly blinked. "What DeadBoy Jr. the bleach and gel's finally seeping to your brain? Now I gave you your mission so you run along like a good little warrior champ and bust up some demons." Xander didn't fail to notice the near lack of gel on the blond's head. He could dwell on the irony that Angel was the one to convince Spike on the merits of using less gel even though Xander had asked his friend countless times with no avail, but he liked to save that to when he had nothing to do to fill the time.

The tone Xander had used reminded Spike of the time before Buffy died, a time he never relished recalling. A time Xander was not his best friend and only saw him in his 'vamps are evil soulless unfeeling monsters' look and in retrospect truly hated his undead guts.

Xander watched as Spike got lost in his memories not taking pleasure in seeing the hurt lost expression that started to build itself on the blond's face. The brunet young man held strong and with strenuous effort kept an expressionless exterior. He might have wanted to place some space between himself and his friend, resulted of Angel's very convincing reasoning, but not make his friend, and somewhat crush, think he hated him and hurt him in the process. The newly made soul began to question the dark vampire's methods, for Angel thought if Xander kept away from Spike for a while his feeling would slowly but surely subside, but that wasn't the case. Xander was getting to a point where he would seek himself some brewing trouble just to get a chance to see Spike in close. To be in the same room and to hear the blond blue eyed striking figure speak to him and perhaps utter his name. The space that Xander had made between them in effort to stomp his feelings only got filled with longing and his feelings intensified tenfold.

Xander shook his mind mentally to clear it; this was not the time or place for such thoughts. He noticed Spike frown and guessed that head shaking wasn't as mentally as he intended it to be.

~ Fall back, fall back!! ~

His voice took a flat tone, in Xander's book better than a shaky one, and said, "Listen, you got all info-ed in, now go be knight in shinning leather."

Spike blinked taken back, he carefully eased Connor into Fred's arms and slowly but surely approached the rigged soul. He reached out with his a steady hand to touch Xander's arm. The blond thought his friend needed the contact as much as he did. He watched detached as his hand went threw like nothing was there. Shocked blue looked up into brown.

~ Xan's never went ghostly me! 'til now that is ~

Xander's anger rose when he saw unadulterated hurt shine at him from clear eyes, an anger generated towards himself and a certain tall dark haired soulful vampire. This was not how it was suppose to go. He was to lose his stupid crush and not hurt Spike because if his diluted feelings and now after being aloof against his better judgment, his friend that he obviously cared now more than before about was hurt even after all that he had done to make sure that never happened!

~ Could life get anymore worse?! ~

Spike pulled back when he saw angry brown starring at him. "Xan…?"

~ He said it…! ~ He couldn't take it anymore! He was going to break down any second now! He had to get away!

"Xander?"

Xander shoved his hand in his hair and held tight. "Stop! People are going to die, Spike, and you're here making idle chatter! Go do your job, now!" the young soul shouted as he disappeared.

Silence was the only thing heard in the room for a split second that lasted a life time for some before Connor's crying broke the spell. Fred gasped out of her own trance and tried to quite the flaying child only to have him picked up by Spike and taken outside. She eep-ed and jumped up off her bed to catch up.

She finally caught up to blond downstairs where Connor was now in Angel's arms getting comforted while Spike raided the weapons cabinet. Cordelia came up to her and whispered, "What's up with edgy Blondie?"

"Charlie, coming?!" Spike called out before heading out to Gunn's truck.

Everyone turned to look at Fred who only said, "Xander, mission, Crafter demon, park," and rushed out to Spike.

Cordelia yelled after her, "We'll talk!"

Gunn shrugged and headed for the weapons. "Preferences, English?"

Wesley coughed as he and Cordelia seemed to be the only ones who noticed Angel's discomfort at the mention of Xander's name. "Uh, yes, an axe would do nicely." The street fighter picked up his weapon, checked his keys and waved goodbye.

Angel caught the looks his two longest friends gave him. With no comment he took Connor to the kitchen to fix his bottle.

******

With a wild yell Spike swung his axe onto the demon and slashed it. Ducking a blow to the head he delivered a savage kick to its right leg breaking the knee and taking the opportunity to clank heads with the Crafter.

~ Stupid Xander! ~

He swung his arm wielding axe and slashed the demon's leg.

~ Think he can avoid me by doing his disappearing act! Not bloody likely! ~

The demon knocked his weapon away causing Spike to switch to game face and jump on him. The vampire started pounding relentlessly all over the demon hide not giving it a chance to retaliate.

~ I'll show him! ~

On the side lines stood Gunn and Fred. The tall man looked bored. "Why did we come anyways?" he asked looking sadly at his unused axe.

Fred distantly heard him, but the only thing on her worried mind was the thought of the loss of such a great friendship over unknown reasons. She was angry at Xander for the way he treated Spike and wanted to smack him on the head for that. Nevertheless, she also noticed how rigid he was in attempts of trying to control his feelings. She was not an idiot, and she had the I.Q. to prove it! It was obvious that there was something behind Xander's strange behavior.

Spike flipped back and retrieved his axe swinging it he thought, ~ Well I've got a plan that will make 'im bloody listen! ~

"There goes its head! Damn, now that's nasty," Gunn commented and turned with detached Fred towards the truck where they waited for Spike to clean his gory axe on the demon hide since Gunn had a role about no icky substances in his beloved vehicle.

Heading back to the hotel in silence, Fred reached a decision. She decided to take Cordelia's 'offer' for a talk. And together they will help bring Spike and Xander back together.

~ In a friendly togetherness or Angel will defiantly not be happy with lil' ol' me … I doubt he'd hurt Cordy though, he's sort of scared of her… ~

******

"So you're ready for this?" Cordelia asked from her seat on her couch.

Fred nodded silently choosing to stay standing which might have had something to do with how nervous she was. A floating glass of water hovered in front of her and she took it sipping it with a sigh.

"Thanks, Dennis," she thanked the unseen ghost.

Cordelia nodded and with closed eyes she recited loudly, "Oh kind guardian, oh wise guide, oh annoying GG I ask you to appear!"

Fred giggled as the same time Xander materialized with a scowl on his face.

"Off on a good start and then you had to mention the GG!" Xander huffed.

Cordelia waved her hand dismissing his irritation. "Hey, a girl needs to get her kicks from some place you know." She stood up then looked at him up and down. ~ He never changes his clothes, does he? Same black leather coat and tight dark blue jeans, well, at least he looks good in them. ~ "You know you took longer than usual to show your fashion deprived self, care to explain?"

Xander sulked. "As your guide you should show me a little bit more respect you know."

A raised eyebrow was his only reply. "Okay, okay I guess I was pushing it there. I was *three seconds* late coz… there's this girl, a friend of Will, I was giving moral to," he said in hasty words. And it wasn't like he was lying; he had been with a company of a post-addict friend of Willow's a mere hour ago! But he had good reasons for being moments late, maybe not good enough reasons since he wasn't telling Cordelia about them, but he was keeping an eye, like usual, on Spike.

And he couldn't observe his friend if he was on the mortal plane with someone else. That was the original and imperative reason he was back to the living world, in a sense, in the first place, to make sure Spike was safe. But he couldn't tell Cordelia that for the reason that she might get other thoughts of why he was watching Spike, real accurate to the core of the problem ideas, like she always had a knack for from the instant he had known her.

Fred watched the two friends badger with small smile that didn’t grow because they only seemed to remind her of Xander and Spike together. She distantly remembered how she thought that Xander would pose a threat to her own friendship with the hyper blond vampire. She feared that after the young brunet's appearance that Spike would find no more need for Lorne and herself; that he only thought of them as convenient, and would choose to spend no more time with them. Luckily Spike cleared her worries and proclaimed that Xander was his friend and sequentially theirs as well, saying that Lorne and Fred would get along well with the peppy soul. Unfortunately, after a while it seemed that Lorne didn't approve of Xander's presence.

A half hearted smile appeared on the mousy brunette's lips. ~ Well seeing Xander locking lips with Spike thus posing as a very pointy pebble in the way of Spike and Angel's relationship might of givin' him a nudge into that direction. ~

Waving away her thoughts of the green demon, seeing that they only served as a reminder of his new 'special' friend instead she focused on the problem at hand. Secretly Fred knew from her talks with Cordelia that Xander continued to appear to her whenever she called him at her apartment. She kept it a secret because she didn't want to pose more grief onto Spike. Since Xander appointed himself, or more accurately the PTB appointed him, guardian of all who needed his comfort, he had been neglecting visiting the blond vampire except for giving out missions.

It seemed that the dark boy's large heart was a big reason in him being a warm shoulder to cry on and kind soul to give comfort to others. Fred knew that the only person who could speak to Xander; with herself being there or not, was Cordelia. Thus, she and Cordelia made this plan to call forth the guardian guide and ask him what his deal with Spike was. The thriving actress had quickly agreed saying that she had noticed and that two vampires brooding was overkill in her book.

"So spill!" Cordelia asked she asked tapping her foot.

Xander shook his head confused. "Huh?"

Cordelia raised her eyebrow and nodded for Fred to come to her side. The young physicist took a deep breath and kept thinking that it was for Spike. Together the two women gave the soul heated glares.

Xander instinctively took two steps back. "Whoa, if dead souls could be deader," he breathed.

The soul sensed anger and irritation rise from both women. He missed to check if Cordelia had company when she called him. Now seeing Fred here, and after the countless times she had called him and he denied showing, he could guess what this little gathering was for. Nonetheless, he wouldn't be Xander Harris if he gave in easy.

"Um, you ladies have licenses for those death glares or should I leave? Coz I've got Dawn's B-party to go to and, well, she'll look a lot like the two of you if I missed it." He gave then a cheery grin.

~ When one is in a corner reach out for the classics ~

"Don't you try that chirpy cheery distracto thing on me Harris I know you!" Cordelia warned.

Xander gulped. He didn't care what anybody said even when your dead Cordelia Chase can scare the best of them.

"You better have some good explanation why you've been MIA around the hotel unless you have a life threatening case you want us to go un-threaten!" Fred nodded avidly agreeing with Cordelia.

"Well it's in my job prescription to give my warrior the heads up on those things," he calmly said.

"Oh and you don’t have time for a 'hi how your doin' just coz the worlds about to end?"

Fred opened her mouth wanting to tell Cordelia that there where no apocalypse visions for months, but she was shot a 'shut up unless you have something more helpful glare', she shut he mouth with a click.

Xander looked almost sympathetically at the mousy brunette, almost because he was sure she was one of the reasons he was under Cordelia's spot light.

Cordelia sighed and flicked her hair. "Listen Xander lets avoid the chit chat okay, why the hell are you avoiding Spike like the plague, never mind that that won't kill you seeing as you have your I'm of the dead club card, and the agency in general and yet whenever I ask Willow if she saw you the answer is always a yes and some funny anecdote of the Scoobies?!!" she breathed deeply when she finished her rant.

Fred eyes were wider than the glasses perched on her nose. She never knew that Cordelia was that affected about Xander's absence.

A glass of water flouted in front of Cordelia and she sipped it slowly. It was true that she was angry with Xander. Even though the brunet would appear only, which she noticed after trying several times in the hotel, when she called him in her apartment but he never spent much time choosing to quickly disappear in a few minutes with an excuse or another.

Xander shifted on his feet and finally spat out, "Stop looking at me like that!"

Two eyes looked in his direction questioningly. He gave them a feeble chuckle. "Dennis," he said as if that explained everything.

Cordelia placed the empty glass on her table and approached Xander. "Xander I get why you help people and give them comfort when the call for you, but the Scoobies? What about us, Spike is worried about you, we all are. Xander you're one of us!" she pleaded wanting to understand. "Why are you doing this to us, to him?"

In the middle of her talk Xander had turned his back to her not wanting her to see the tears that threatened to fall. When she mentioned Spike's name he lost it.

"You maybe my friends, but the Scoobies are my only family!" he spat out. "Gotta go now, need to wish Dawnie a happy birthday," he whispered before disappearing.

Fred and Cordelia looked at each other shocked. There was no way either of them was going to tell Spike what happened just then, that was for sure!

******

At the meantime, Spike was on the phone with Dawn who was yelling at him for not coming to her birthday party that had just started fifteen minutes ago.

"Nibblet … Bit … I'm … DAWN!!! Hear me out for just a sec, will ya?" the vampire shouted silencing the girl on the phone. He sighed in relief before asking, "Xander's there, right?"

"Just appeared, he's a true friend unlike some people," she grumbled. "You wanna talk to him? I could put you two on speaker…"

"No!" Spike exclaimed.

"Why?"

"Long story, Bit. Tell ya about it later. Will you do me a favor, Dawn?"

"Why the hell should I? You didn't come to my party which you can make before cake time if you go to your damn old car right now!"

Spike frowned. "Where did you learn to swear like that?"

Dawn spoke in a proud voice, "You who else?" She then switched to demanding again. "Party! You know I'm not gonna be fifteen again in like ever!"

"I'm sorry, Nibblet. I had a lot on mind and I promise to tell you about it later." There was no reply. "C'mon, Little Bit, I promise I'll swing by some other time when everything's all right and I'll get you whatever you want."

"Spike, what is it?" Dawn's voice sounded concerned she had never heard Spike sound that urgent before.

"Will you help me, pet?"

He heard a sigh then a whispered, "Okay."

"I want you to keep Xander at the party the whole evening, can you do that?"

"Spike, why …"

"I promise I will tell everything when I work things out, okay?"

He could picture Dawn nodding. "Okay, I'll do it. When will you tell me what you're planning?"

"Don't know. But eventually I will, I promise, Nibblet. Just … do what I said."

After saying hasty goodbyes and replacing the phone on the cradle he set off on doing the second part of his plan.
 

******

Wesley was switching back and forth from reading from an open book on his desk to writing some notes in his not book. He leaned back against the chair and contemplated what he had just been studying; he took off his glasses and placed the earpiece in his mouth biting on its end lost in thought. The ex-Watcher practically jumped up when the door slammed open.

Spike stood in the middle of the room shocked and amused in equal measures. In front of him stood what he considered a slightly improved figure of a stuffy Watcher he knew aiming a loaded crossbow directly at his heart while a pair of wire rimmed glasses hung suspended from his mouth.

The blond vampire finally decided on amused contemplation. "I see that you can take care of yourself quite well, Percy."

Wesley sighed and replaced his crossbow in its special drawer while leaving it slightly ajar. He blushed slightly when he saw Spike raise an eyebrow indicating towards the glasses still dangling from his mouth. He took them out and winched when he noticed that with the excitement he left a visible bite in it not to mention a noticeable wetness that he chose to wipe off and placed the glassed back on without questioning.

"Please stop calling me that." Looking at his amused visitor he asked, "I hope a laugh at my expense holds something behind it you want when you barged in without may I add knocking. You wouldn't have been pleased if you caught me in a compromising position…" Wesley stopped when he remembered that this was Spike he was addressing. "Please overlook my last statement."

Spike smirked. "Not that I won't mind seeing you in a 'compromising position'." He made the quotation sign with his fingers. "That problem is you could never be caught doing that outside your or Winifred's room."

Wesley glared at him. "Now that you mentioned that, as much as I care for young Connor, please refrain from interrupting Fred and me…"

Spike interrupted him. "But I had a good reason Angel wanted to shag me!" Spike smiled at the memory. "Which he did… then you know the kind heart I have so I had to repay the favor which I did…"

"Spike please!" Wesley begged red-faced. "Again I repeat NEVER share with me you and Angel's… personal life."

"It's called sex, shagging your brains out, making love! Bloody hell, Wesley, if you do it you can freakin' well say it!"

Wesley sputtered, "I do say, how…"

Spike pointed at his nose. "Vampire, mate, you'd do well to remember that, besides… Fred told us." He shrugged.

Wesley massaged his head. "Spike… please, you're here because…?"

The ex-Watcher watched something he had witnessed a thousand times since Spike's arrival joining their little but growing family, but it amazed it every time. Spike quickly changed tracks and donned his serious face.

"I need you to find me away to keep a guardian guide on this plane," he expressed seriously.

Wesley looked at the vampire quietly for a few minutes. With his eyes locked with the vampire making sure he followed them, he looked at his notepad.

"Now that you mention that…"

******

Four days later, Spike and Fred were in her room watching a horror movie, curtsy of Angel who provided them with the cash to supply for the T.V. and DVD, and making fun of the actors which was when Xander chose to appear. Fred closed the T.V. and a knowing glance passed between her and Spike as they stood up and gazed at Xander waiting for the mission that the guide was sure to deliver them.

"A hellbeast demon," Xander began in the calm voice he was always using for the last few months all professional like. "He'll be attacking a mother with her son in an ally next to the UCLA." The young man's full attention was focused on the vampire in front of him not aware how Fred was getting close and closer to the door.

Spike put his hands in his pockets acting nonchalant. "Now is that a girl beast or your run-of-the-mill boy hellbeast?"

"Male…w-why would that matter?" The words just came out of Xander's mouth in confusion, when Spike suddenly threw himself at him reached deeply into his pocket and placed something onto Xander's back choosing a specific spot which Xander couldn't reach. "What?" Xander shouted when he tried to disappear but failed.

Spike turned to Fred. "Did you get that?"

The young woman nodded. "Yeah, me and Gunn can handle that alright,” she said as she ran outside the room leaving the two. Spike closed the door behind her.

“What the hell is going on?” Xander yelled questioning angrily looking at Spike who turned towards him and rapped his arms over his chest. “Fred and Gunn will take care of the demon while you and I have us a nice long awaited chat.”

Xander narrowed his eyes. “Spike why can’t I go Houdini?”

Spike just smirked.

*Flashback*

"So you're sayin' you've found in those musty ol' books of yours a way for me to stop Xander from leaving?" Spike frowned leaning over the desk to gaze at Wesley's writings.

His fellow English man huffed indignantly and unconsciously covered the papers with his hands. "In a manner of speaking," Wesley concurred. "It's actually a simple soul Anchor. Since Xander is essentially a soul it is easy to do."

Spike took a seat intrigued as he rested his feet on the desk. "How's this anchor easy?"

Wesley took a deep breath in order not to futilely ask Spike to remove his booted feet off his desk, an action that the vampire obviously had caught as he was smirking smugly.

"You see people sometimes try to keep their loved ones anchored to them and that is basically how the business of contacting the spirit of a loved one works. One would need a special item from the deceased to perform the spell. You think you can provide something of Xander's?" Wesley asked.

Spike furrowed his brows in remembrance. With a nod he replied, "Yeah, mate, I think that could be arranged." He still recalled that Xander's items he had brought with him were still in his room. Of course, now it was Connor's nursery but the closet still held his stuff.

"But wouldn't Xander notice you doing mojo when he shows?" the vampire asked worried that if Xander found out he would split. Wasn't that the same reason why Spike asked Dawn to keep Xander in her party as long as possible so he could speak with Wesley without the guardian eavesdropping?

"I have thought of that. That would simply be rectified with placing the spell in a specified chamber where you can use it at anytime. I'm sure Fred would be able to make the required chamber that could be able to hold a peace of the article as well as the spell. The only thing you need to do is place it on him… perhaps a place where he cannot reach if he wished to take it off?"

"But here’s the thing you know… Xander can't touch a solid thing… it’s the soul 'e touches… if I try to stick it on 'im it will only go through," Spike grumbled.

Wesley smiled in reassurance. "I'm well aware of that Spike, I assure you. The other importance of the special item is… you hear how some people cherish things because they believe that they carry a piece of their soul?" Spike blinked and looked at his duster and Wesley chuckled. "That is quite true. So in fact with the spell I'm only transferring some of Xander's residue soul into the chamber and with the anchoring spell you'd be able to keep him on this plane."

Spike nodded. "I get it… how long will it take you to fix all that?"

"A day or two and Fred's part won't be a problem at all… she is quite good at what she does."

Spike smiled. "As are you, Wes. Thank you."

Wesley looked a bit surprised at the complement but nodded and returned the smile. They were attempting something that could prove to be a solution for all the high anxiety running in the hotel or if he was correct in the assumption a very pissed Angel. But his friend was his problem to deal with; he would make sure of that.

"There is one thing Spike," Wesley caught Spike as he stood up to leave. The vampire turned a questioning gaze towards him.

"Something wrong?"

"Uh, yes I mean, no, well you see it's about Angel. About this plan . . . you know that those two aren't the best of friends . . . so possibly it would be best not to inform Angel about this until after you and Xander straighten things out?"

Spike raised an eyebrow. "Sure. But if he finds out that we've been working behind his back he'd be royally pissed." He cocked his head significantly to the side.

Wesley smirked. "You just leave him to me . . . if you trust me that is?"

Spike returned the smirk with a leer. "You know the strange thing, Wesley, I do. Just go easy on him… he's a softy, really."

They shared a conspiring look … and thus the plan was set in motion.

*End Flashback*

“Listen, mate,” Spike began after reciting the essential parts of his and Wesley's conversation. “I don’t want to waist my time explaining further. I just wanna know one thing …” He threw Xander a firm glare. “Why are you bleedin' avoiding me?”

“The anchor thingy it’s the thing you put on my back, right? It’s why I can’t go away?” Xander asked heatedly ignoring Spike’s question and trying hard to reach for the item on his back to take it off, but finding zero success in accomplishing that.

“Why do you want to go away?” Spike spat, feeling both anger and hurt surge through him.

Xander kept ignoring Spike and trying desperately to find the fucking Anchor. The vampire grabbed the younger man’s arms and held them firmly against his chest as he shook the brunet hard to get his attention “Xander, it’s been what? A month, two months since we talked proper! Why are you avoiding me like that? You bloody well owe me that!”

Xander didn’t meet his eyes and choose instead to glare at the floor. When Spike knew that Xander was not going to answer him anytime soon, he let go of him roughly and cursed softly. He took few steps away from the soul to look at him. “It’s because of Angel, right?” he asked quietly.

Xander looked up too fast. “Angel had nothing to do with it!” he exclaimed too eagerly that he bit his tongue causing him to exclaim in pain. Spike turned with a raised eyebrow. “It is Angel then," Spike said coolly, trying so hard to hold his rage in check. ~ Now what stupid thing did you do, Angel?! ~ "What did he …”

“God, Spike!" Xander yelled interrupting. "Why does anything have to do with anything?” he shouted with his hands clutched in firm fists.

“Because it obviously does!” Spike yelled back. “What is it? Is it Connor? Coz you’ve been giving me the fuckin' freezing shoulder ever since he was born. I'm not even sure you know that he was bloody well named!”

“No, it’s not Connor, ok! It’s not anybody! Can’t it just be because I want some quality time with myself?”

~ What a brainless excuse, Harris? ~ Xander thought dryly. ~ Was that the best you can come up with? Quality time with yourself? When did you want to be by yourself? And did you think for one second that Spike would fall for that? ~

Spike laughed loudly.  “Yeah, right, with yourself or with the Sunnydale natives?” Hurt beyond sensible reason, Spike was completely jealous of how Xander preferred to be with the Scoobies and never spent time with him anymore.

~ Hells! I feel like a school girl whose best friend chose to sit with a new crowd! ~ The blond thought in disgust.

Xander looked elsewhere. “They’re my friends,” he clarified quietly

“And I’m not?”

“So what now? I’m not allowed to see my friends? I thought you guys worked things out!”

“We did and, no, I have no problem with you visiting them. And beeldin’ stop ignoring my questions and answering with questions!” Spike took an unneeded breath and tried again calmly, “Am I your friend, Xander?”

“Yes, you are,” Xander answered after a little while, both eyes examining Fred's carpet.

“Then why don’t you visit like you used do? Like you do with them?”

“Because I don’t feel like it, ok,” Xander answered with trembling lips. His voice sounded so shaky that it didn’t even convince himself. ~ This is too much! ~ He was spitting out everything that came into his head, be it making sense or not. He was losing it! Suddenly he felt so tired as if the many years of fatigue had compiled themselves on him at that very moment.

“Listen to yourself. Do you believe …?”

“God, Spike! Would ya get off my back already? Why do you even care why I don't drop by for our daily girly chats? You have a lover, friends and a child. You have the perfect family, why do you bother with me?"

"Because you’re my best friend!" Spike shook his head in disbelief. Why was it so easy for the boy to dismiss himself?

"And you're mine too," Xander agreed. "But that doesn't mean that I have to pop whenever you call!"

"Then why did you choose to be my bloody guardian guide if you won't fuckin' come to me when I call you?! You know what?" Spike shook his head again holding his hands up in defeat and turning away from the young man. "I give up. Just go, bleedin' go up there or to them where you like to be more!"

Spike stood there stiffly, wishing that he hadn't sent Gunn and Fred after that demon because he truly wanted to kick something's arse that moment. He waited for himself to cool down knowing that Xander was still there since he couldn't go because of the Anchor on his back. What really bugged him was that Xander still hadn't reacted. What the hell happened to his friend?

He risked a glance to find Xander standing in the middle of the room all rigid and eyes feverishly shut.

"Xander?"

The soul slowly opened his eyes and looked straight into the pair of blue ones. Spike was taken back at the pain that showed in the chocolaty brown orbs.

"I'm tired."

Soft words escaped the young man's lips. Soft words that only held in them pain, anguish, despair and gloom. Spike couldn't believe how exhausted Xander looked and sounded.

"I'm so tired," Xander sounded too weary for someone his own age, besides him being dead and all. He couldn't do this anymore. There was no point to it anyway. He was hurting Spike more by acting like this, but he couldn't stand Angel and Gunn looking at him like a pervert whenever he was near one of their lovers. Not to mention, Lorne's accusing eyes and given that the green one was not there much anymore and Xander began to avoid everyone, there was Fred and Cordelia blaming him for hurting Spike.

And that was what it all had been about from the beginning, right? Giving up heaven, coming back as a soul without actual form, having all these feelings without satisfying his need, agreeing with Angel's suggestion without hesitation, it was all about making Spike happy. All of this was for Spike. Never to hurt him. Ever. But obviously he was doing a bad job.

Spike approached the stiff soul, his eyes not leaving the brown ones. "So tired of what, Xan?"

Xander opened his mouth to answer, but shut it strongly and looked elsewhere. Spike growled and angrily held Xander's shoulders with his hands. "Bloody hell, Xander! Talk to me!" He was face to face with the young man, trying to keep his voice as calm as possible he asked, "What do you really want?"

Xander wanted a lot of things. He wanted to eat, to drink, to touch, to be *alive* again. He was so tired that he wanted to lie down and rest, but that’s impossible since he can’t touch the bed or sleep. He wanted Spike to be just a pal, a buddy, not someone he has the hots for. He wanted things between him and the blond to be the same as they used to be. The same as when he was still *alive*.

Spike was holding him right now. It felt so good to be held, to have someone rub your back like that. He wanted to hold Spike so tight until the pain went away but he couldn't. Holding Spike might lead to something he couldn't control, which will cause an even stronger dent to Spike's relationship with Angel and he couldn't cause harm to his friend. Not more than he already had at least.

“Xander, hug me back. I know it will make you feel better, mate.” It was like Spike was reading his mind. But still, he can't do that to Angel's mate.

“I can’t, you’re Angel’s.”

“I’m not anybody’s!” Spike spat irately. That word made him feel like he was owned, like he was nothing but a pet or a toy for Angel. It reminded him of how Angelus always showed 'his love' to him in a dominated possessive way. He had always referred to him as 'my boy' or 'my own'. William had felt that he was only known as that. Spike didn't hate it when his Sire called him that; for it was true and it made him feel safe even when Angel called that way sometimes to this day. However, it irked him when the people referred to him as that. Most of Master vampires used to call him 'Angelus' lad' or 'Drusilla's boy' which he loathed. A lot. That had been one of the many reasons he had made a new name to himself via horrendous murders, but a respectable and feared name none the less.

“I’m Spike," he elucidated. "William the Bloody. I’m my own person. Nobody owns me and what *I* want is what I get. So you better do what I say or your undead souly arse would get its first jolt!”

“But you love Angel,” Xander whispered softly trying so hard to make Spike see his point without telling him the truth.

Spike’s features softened a little. “Yes, pet. I love Angel and what does that have to do with …” he trailed off. “You think that holding me would ruin things with Angel? You thought that spending time with me was what . . . gonna get Angel's knickers in a twist? Is that what all of this about? That’s why you were keeping away from me?”

Xander was about to scream ‘No! It’s not about stupid Angel! It's about what I feel!’ but stopped. Actually that was a good enough cover up to use instead of telling Spike the real reason for the whole mess. He backed away from the embrace. “If we hung a lot, Angel would get all jealous and green-eyed.” He looked up at the vampire. “I don’t give a damn about Angel’s feelings, but since it hurts your relationship with him which means hurt *you*, I’m willing to take a hike for a while.”

Spike was speechless. Xander, his best friend, did that for him, so he and Angel could be happy. Why should the blond be surprised? Xander gave up heaven for him; he would do anything for him. Spike would never hurt the young man, not after all what he had given up for him, heaven and more, and if Angel couldn't deal then....

“Then I guess Angel has to get over his possessive jealousy that started over one kiss returned,” Spike said calmly. Xander looked up shocked. “I don’t want you to be ignoring me again, Xander. Never, okay?”

“Yeah, but…”

“Never, understood?”

“Yeah,” Xander answered but he was still unsure. Could he do this? Be near Spike and control his actions, his feelings? Leaving the blond for a while didn’t help any. Instead, he was drawn more and more to the vampire. “It hurt so much acting like I did. I’m sorry,” he apologized shamefully. "You do know that was all an act, right?" the guardian guide asked worried.

“You did hurt my feelings, you know,” Spike said teasingly. Where internally he sighed in relief glad that that whole shamble was over with and he had his friend back.

Xander bit his lower lip. “I’m sorry. I guess I wanted you to hate me.”

“So I’d like Angel even more?” Spike cocked his head to the side and looking at Xander like he lost it.

Xander shrugged, his color fainting a little; a sure sign of GG blushing if any. Spike chuckled. “No offence, mate. But I’m in love with that git and when I love someone I can’t get over them easily.” He noticed how his friend was uncomfortable. “You alright?”

Xander gave a weary smile. “Just exhausted. Emotionally of course, can’t be physically. I just want to lie down, rest but that’s imposable.” He looked at the bed longingly while Spike stared at him for a while. The vampire grinned. “I have an idea.”

Xander knew that smirk, a smirk that meant a Spike plan was afoot and that never ends well. Well except this one obviously. But Xander had a long bad record with Spike plans, he groaned, “Oh, no!”

******

Angel dashed into Wesley’s office causing the young Watcher to throw all the files in his hands in the air and reach for the hidden weapon. “What happened, Wes?” the vampire yelled as he stood by the desk with both hands resting on the table.

Wesley withdrew his hand from the drawer, placed a hand on his rising and falling chest and glared at Angel. “I believe it’s you who owes me answer that question,” he said as calmly as possible. It was a wonder he wasn't dead from heart frailer with the vampire residence jumping into his office in their line of business.

“I saw Gunn and Fred running outside with weapons. What is it?” Angel looked so worried that the young ex-Watcher felt bad for him but he kept with act. He waved the vampire off. “Oh, it’s a mission for Spike. One hell beast, they can handle it.” He knelt to collect the files he dropped from the floor.

Angel looked at him through narrowed eyes. “Why would they do Spike’s mission?” he asked then his flashed yellow. “Did something happen to Spike?” He was about to run upstairs to check on his lover, but Wesley held his hand and looked at him calmly.

“Relax. Very well, I feel must bring you up to date or you will muck the whole thing up. Spike only wanted to talk to Xander since the boy started to disregard his summoning the last two months.” Wesley noticed the way Angel flinched at the mention of Xander. He started organizing the files in his hands for then he won't be looking at Angel, whose eyes returned to their natural brown after making sure his mate was not harmed. “Spike wished speak with him, to ask him why he was avoiding him and perhaps possibly make it right with Xander,” he revealed quietly.

“What? But how? Xander always disappears after he tells Spike the mission, Wil always said that he refused to speak with him,” Angel cried out desperately. ~ If Spike knew what I did he'll … ~

“I and the others manufactured an Anchor to keep Xander in this plane as long as Spike chose him to be,” Wesley explained.

“Why am I the only one who clearly wasn't in the loop?” Angel asked with a frowned glare.

“Because Cordy and I seem to think that you had something to do with Mr. Harris’ strange behavior. That’s why we didn’t tell you, but don’t worry Angel, Spike and the others don’t know a thing about our suspicions,” Wesley answered sincerely.

“Xander might be telling Spike about it right now!” Angel exclaimed not denying Wesley's speculation that he had something to do with it. Wesley didn't call him on it.

“I hardly think Xander will tell him a thing. He might be a real talker but he’s utterly loyal.” The ex-Watcher realized that it was the first time he had defended the boy who annoyed him to no extent back when he was stationed in Sunnydale. But Xander's loyalty was something that could not be questioned, even if it was to Angel, the person whom the young man couldn't stand.

On the other hand, Angel was not experiencing similar thoughts about his Childe's appointed guardian guide. “Not to me he isn't.” Xander evidently hated him a great deal, specially now after what he had made him do. When they were fighting over Buffy, the boy did all he could to make the Slayer see him in the worse light possible. Xander always spoke badly about him in front of her, trying so hard to win her. So why wouldn't he do that to Spike? What changed?

“Angel, what are you afraid of?” Wesley asked worriedly, trying to understand what was going on in his friend's complex mind.

“I’m afraid that the little bastard might be locking lips with my lover at this very moment that's what!” Angel growled changing into his demon form, again; Xander had never hesitated to try that with Buffy so why not with Spike? So when all rational thoughts went out the window in come a furious Angelus.

“Why would he do that?” Wesley asked astonished.

~ Why?! ~ Angel thought tetchily. Wesley looked infuriatingly confused and curious. Couldn't he see the way Xander was looking at Spike, the way he wanted to touch him so bad, the way he felt for him? It was obvious that Xander had feelings for *his* lover! Damn it! Angelus had always been jealous of any attention young William attracted but it was pure possessive jealousy. Angelus had viewed the young fledge as his, that the lithe body was his to do with as he pleased. That no one was allowed to look at it or touch it. But in this situation the stakes were higher as they say. Since Xander wasn't after Spike for his body only but his heart. The soul wasn't only lusting at the body but reaching for the heart. And that was something neither Angel nor Angelus knew how to fight.

“Because … because …” ~ He has feeling for him! Who knows what that might lead to! ~ He wanted to scream those words that had been troubling him ever since Xander had confessed that he liked Spike in a little more than a friendly way, but Angel wisely changed it to …“…he hates me!” he finished lamely.

Wesley sighed and tried to reason with his friend. “I don’t think he would do that and if he would, Spike wouldn’t let him.”

“Spike likes him a lot. He’s his best friend. And … they did kiss!” Angel knew he was pouting. God, why was he acting like a silly school girl?

Wesley's eyes grew wide. He couldn't believe it! “Angel, you’re still not over that bloody kiss, are you?!”

“It was passionate, Wesley! It had feeling. They both liked it and Spike didn’t even try to deny that!”

“But Spike loves *you* and he did apologize!”

“But …but …”

“Oh bloody hell, Angel!”

Wesley reached out over the desk, grabbed Angel’s neck, leaned in and pressed his lips to the older man roughly. Angel stood there all shocked while Wesley’s tongue worked its way into Angel’s mouth. The young Watcher kept kissing Angel enthusiastically and the vampire couldn’t reset. He started kissing back tasting Wesley’s sweet mouth while his hands worked their way around the younger man's waist. That when Wesley ended the kiss and backed away from the dazed vampire.

“What . . . ?” Angel asked dumbly.

“What do you think? Am I a good kisser?” Wesley asked with a smirk. Angel could've sworn that he saw the same smile on Spike's face many of times.

“Surprisingly yes,” Angel took a deep breath. “God, Wes that was a real good kiss, but …”

“It wasn’t as great as you and Spike," Wesley finished for him.

“Yeah,” The older brunet smiled sheepishly. “Sorry?"

“Hey, it’s okay." The younger man waved his hand. "I’m more lady's man myself.” Wesley sighed and looked pointedly at the squirming vampire. “So, you liked the kiss but you still want Spike and it would be rather impractical of Spike to get all immature once he finds about …”

“Don’t tell Spike about this Wes!” Angel warned.

“I won’t, but even if he knew he wouldn't go crazy about it because he trusts you and loves *you*. Can’t you do that to him too?”

“Yeah, I trust Spike but …”

“But what? You’re afraid of Xander because both of them are close friends. We are close friends too as I seem to recall for more years than Xander and Spike, and here we kissed… but no feelings.”

~ But Xander has feelings for Spike, ~ Angel thought.

“Xander knows that Spike loves you, do you think he would do anything knowing that?"

~ It didn't stop him before, ~ Angel thought sardonically. ~ What changed now? ~ Xander grew up, the words slammed into him. He blinked repeating that thought again, Xander grew up. Maybe that was it. Harris used to be a teenager when the whole thing with Buffy happened. A child. He couldn't by all reason compare sixteen year old Xander to twenty-one year old Xander. Perhaps, Xander did grow up and Angel was the one who was acting immaturely. ~ God, I feel like two inches tall! I hate these out of the blue epiphanies! ~

The master vampire looked up at Wesley. "I think you're right, Wes." He chuckled rubbing his hand over his face embarrassed. "God, I was acting like a juvenile!"

Wesley blinked at the sudden change in Angel's behavior but couldn't help patting him on the arm. "It's okay, Angel. Love makes do that." The young man gave a cheeky grin. "Besides, that kiss was all you had to fear, it's not like you would find them together in bed anytime soon."

******

~ You're so dead, Wes! ~ Angel thought as he stood at the door of Fred's room. He was happily heading to his and Spike's room after checking on Connor in the adjoining room, formally Spike's room now Connor’s nursery, where Cordelia waved him off, to find their room empty. He followed Spike's scent and it led him to Fred's room. And here he was, standing by the door, watching his lover in bed with Xander lying on the top of him… with their arms around each other!

Angel felt a growl build but held it in for he didn't want disturb his clearly asleep lover. They were wearing their clothes, which was a good sign. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath. ~ Act like a man your age, act like a man your age… ~ He repeated in his head silently ~ a man my age would be dead... how am I suppose to act like a dead man?! ~ Then he opened his eyes and focused them on Xander. He smirked and shook his head amused as he watched the boy try to act like he was asleep.

Other than the fact that Guardian Guides couldn't sleep, which was something he knew from reading the scattered books Wesley left around, Angel noticed how Xander shut his eyes firmly like a child who was trying to convince his parents that he was asleep on Christmas Eve. His eyes reflected his calmness as he quietly moved forwards next to Spike and laid a soft kiss on the blond's forehead not unaware of Xander's fretfulness.

Xander was peacefully lying on Spike's chest, letting himself lose control of his body and let it be, letting it so his body would rest against the blond. He was relaxing, his feelings were lightening and his emotions were calming down. He could tell that Spike was asleep, because he wasn't stroking his back anymore. This was the best idea Spike thought of, ever.

Suddenly, he heard the door open and opened his eyes tiny slits to see *Angel* of all people standing there. ~ Darn, this is your worst idea you ever, Spike! ~ Xander tried to disappear, but he couldn't because of that damn thing on his back. He cursed his bad luck but thanked God that he didn't have a heart beat anymore or Angel could tell that he was awake. He would just act like a sleeping person and pray that Angel didn't know the fact that Guardian Guides couldn't sleep.

Who was he kidding? Of course Angel knew! God, what would he do to him? He couldn't go all untouchable with that on his back keeping him on this plane so now anything with a soul could touch him, and in all accounts be able to hurt him! He still recalled how Darla's punch hurt him a lot over two months ago. He didn't know if he could bleed, though he doubted it. But obviously he could feel physical pain.

Everything was so quite right now. Where was Angel? Was he collecting all the torture gadgets to use them on him? But inanimate soulless objects can't touch him, which was good that only left fists and fangs. Was the vampire going to confirm if Guardian Souls could bleed?

He risked opening his eyes and was about to jump a mile in the air, if it weren't for Spike's arms firmly securing him, when he was struck with Angel's face less than three inches in front of his staring at him, quietly. Angel smiled … warmly? That couldn't be good. The Master vampire opened his mouth ready to speak. ~ I bet 'Fuck you, Harris!' would be the first sentence… unless he goes with 'How high should I make you scream?' ~ He thought awkwardly.

"Never listen to me again, Xander, never. Never hurt Spike," Angel whispered calmly before straightening up and leaving the room. Xander blinked stupidly as Angel closed the door behind him...

~ What the … ~

. . . More blinking.

~Part: 29~

"Wheeee!"

Connor giggled.

"Left to right wall at full speed. clear the runway. Wheeee!"

Spike, Fred, Xander and Connor were in Fred's room watching TV. Well, actually Fred was the only one really enjoying the movie. Since Xander and Connor seemed to be having more fun. flying around, or floating or whatever Xander did to suspend himself. Spike had his back against the headboard while Fred lay on the bed, her head resting on the blond's thigh.

Spike couldn't watch the movie on the T.V. He was too worried to be able to follow its events. His eyes were locked anxiously at the floating Xander with the giggling Connor in his arms. Was it still technically floating if there was zipping from one wall to another? As much as Spike liked Xander, the boy was too clumsy. The vampire was poised, for in any second he feared that Connor would fall down. His arms twitched each time the guardian guide made a swift turn.

"Uh . Xander? Would you slow down a bit? I don't think it's safe ."

Heading in his fastest speed yet towards the left wall, Xander seemed to be ignoring Spike. or maybe he didn't hear him since this time when he stopped head and upper body went through the wall leaving a giggling Connor suspended by almost bodiless arms.

"Xander! Xander! Bring him down! That's enough!" Spike exclaimed fearfully. He was about jump up, but with Fred's head on his thigh, he couldn't. That was unless he wanted to break her neck. The brunette scientist didn't even seem to notice, too busy sighing over Johnny Depp.

Xander pouted down at him after pulling himself through the wall as if nothing had happened. "You don't trust me," he stated.

"Well, mate, your fucking ghosty head went through the bloody wall!"

Xander hugged Connor to him and unsuccessfully tried to cover Connor's ears and glared at Spike for cursing in front of the infant. Spike didn't seem to notice.

"The Munchkin can't do that, less he's been hiding something from me for three months. Bring him down now!" Spike directed with his finger. If Angel knew that Spike had handed Connor over to Xander, he would kill Spike. Bloodily. Mate or no mate the kid came first. And Spike was okay with that. really! Angel couldn't trust anyone with Connor except for himself, Spike and his own close friends, Wesley and Cordelia. That annoyed Spike a lot. Spike's close friends were reliable. Clumsy Xander and ditzy Fred.

Spike sighed.

Xander lowered himself slowly, pout still in place and handed Connor over to Spike. The vampire eagerly snatched the baby from the soul and looked him over. The small child wiggled while gurgling happily at the attention.

"He's fine, dumb-ass. No need for the Ten Finger Check," Xander mumbled heatedly.

Spike kept checking though and asked distractedly, "What's the Ten Finger Check?"

"That's the ritual I used to do after being jumped by a big nasty. well before you taught me how to fight back. and don't change the subject! I really don't see why you need to check Connor over."

Spike nodded satisfied with the toddler, placed Connor down on his quilt on top of the bed, and proceeded to feed him his baby bottle.

He looked up at Xander. "Well, Angel is not your lover, mate."

Xander's face had a disgusted look on it. "Guh! Don't say such scary things! Angel and lover should not be used in a sentence in regards to me." He gave an exaggerated shudder. Spike rolled his eyes at the boy's antics.

"It's not fair that Cordy and Wes are trusted with Connor but me and Xan are not," Fred whined, looking up at Spike.

The vampire blinked. He had forgotten she was there. He looked at the screen and shook his head amused. The credits were rolling. That must've been the only reason that the brunette decided to join the conversation. World would end before Winifred Burkle choose to talk with her friends over panting at the living image of Mr. Depp. The vampire had to wonder what Wesley had to say about that. He mentally snickered at the thought of sweet Fred making her boyfriend dress up as the actor. That was before he remembered his early easy talks with Fred and Lorne and quickly did a mind wipe. Spike was sure it was the soul's fault!

"Yeah, Connor is your son too Spike. You should have a say in this!" Xander cried out breaking Spike out of his disturbing thoughts. "It's because we're your friends Spike. See? He doesn't trust you!" The soul pointed with his finger. He obviously was talking about Angel. The brunet vampire had been acting more civil with the guide but that didn't mean he trusted Xander. He was only doing it to keep Spike happy. And somehow Angel's reasons were annoying Xander.

"I'm Angel's friend too, does that mean I can look over Connor without 24/7 supervision?" Fred exclaimed, sitting up on her knees and reaching her hands to Connor. She tickled him then discreetly tried to wipe the trickle of milk that escaped his little mouth still sucking on the baby bottle.

Spike sighed for the second time. That was what he got for making friends with a twenty-four-year-old with a sixteen-year-old girl's looks and action, and with a twenty-one-year-old with the face and mind of a 5-year-old boy. Both of whom were the kindest hearts he had ever met and had lived through Hell in their own way and survived to tell the tale. What was his point again?

"First," Spike began. "He's technically Angel's son, so it's his decision what happens to Connor. Second, not all my friends aren't allowed to hold the sprout, Angel said that Lorne could hold him."

"Yeah, well, Greeny didn't care to be here, now did he?" Xander muttered impolitely. The guardian had an inkling that Spike's mate only made the comment about Lorne because the green demon supported the vampire with his distaste of Xander's presence.

"Xander," Spike warned.

"Xander's rude little comment does have a point, Spike," Fred said sadly. "It's been a long time since Lorne spent time with us. We barely even see him outside his club."

"Well, it's because of his new 'love interest'," Spike replied sordidly.

"Hey," Xander retorted. "Laura is too good for Lorne!" He didn't know the woman. Nevertheless, if she was with Lorne, it had to be true.

"You're just a little bitter coz Lorne wasn't that nice to you," Fred said to the cross-legged brunet. She placed Connor over her cloth-covered shoulder and proceeded to make him burp.

Xander laughed aloud. "Nice?! He was the furthest there was from nice! He was busy listening to people rendering classics while *nice* was taking a one-way trip to Timbuktu."

"Well he was 'til you had your tongue down my throat," Spike pointed out smirking and wiggling his eyebrows. Since it seemed that Angel was okay with Spike hanging out with Xander again, Spike saw it as fair game to finally tease his friend about it. Let it not be said that a soul turned him into a complete sap. Well not for a long time, at least not permanently. The few first months of poofy-girly-souled-Spike were a set back, now that things had finally calmed down, he was placing all that in an iron box and throwing away the key. He was not going back to that sorry state anytime soon that was for sure!

"Hey, it was just a peck on the lips! A friendly peck rendered! *You're* the one who wanted to give the real show!" How dare Spike try to make it his fault! Xander had enough of that from everyone else. He really didn't need his best friend joining in.

"You guys are still talking about that! Forget it already! It's beginning to get really old and annoying! You're sounding like Ross and Rachel over the damn We-Were-On-A-Break thing!"

Fred's outburst drove Connor into a fest of tears since he was still on her shoulder when she did it. She turned the baby around and sighed as she watched Spike and Xander try to calm him. Once Connor calmed down, she looked at the two with regret. "I'm sorry about that."

"It's alright, pet. It *is* getting too old."

"Yeah," Xander agreed looking forlorn. A small grin found itself to his lips. "Good one on the Ross and Rachel reference though."

Spike nodded. "And I'm pretending that I didn't get it. I have a reputation to maintain you know," he said seriously.

Xander rolled his eyes. "You still tear up during Passions and spent an hour on the phone discussing the meanings behind Timmy with Giles on the phone last Monday."

Spike sniffed. "I'll have you know that Timmy has a lot of layers you can't even begin to grasp. Rupes agrees with me. And who are you to question my tastes, BSB groupie?"

Xander glared silently at Spike thankful that the vampire only threatened him with the abbreviation.

"You like the Backstreet Boys?" Fred chirped. "Do you think they really broke up?" she asked sadly while Xander groaned and hid his face in his hands.

Spike snickered. He held up Connor to his face and sniffed. Still clean, thankfully. Spike hated diaper changes. Fred took the last one as Xander couldn't because he couldn't touch soulless objects. Spike never felt more envious of the boy. Connor yawned up at him, blinking his big blue eyes sleepily. Spike smiled lovingly and placed him down to get some sleep.

All the while, Xander was begging Fred to keep his liking of the boy band a secret. The young woman couldn't understand why but finally to the soul's relief she agreed.

"Thanks, Fred. I just shudder to think what Lorne would say if he found out!"

Fred looked at Xander with a frown. "You're wrong you know. *Lorne* is too good for Laura."

"Right there, pet," Spike agreed.

It was Xander's turn to sigh. "As much as me and Lorne aren't getting along lately maybe the poor green dude just needs to get laid. Could relieve some of his tension towards yours truly." He looked empathically at Spike and Fred. "Or he just might need 'someone'." Fred and Spike looked at each other and reluctantly nodded in agreement.

Fred's face brightened falsely as she tried to think of anything to lift their spirits. "I think it's cute! I mean they like have the same initials and all. except when they wanna sew it on their underwear it might make for a problem." Fred frowned trying to think of a solution to that serious predicament.

Spike and Xander gaped at her before Spike coughed calling the Texans' attention. "Pet, I don't want to know if you and Percy even do that."

Xander nodded furiously agreeing. He couldn't think of Wesley wearing boxers that had WWP on them. The ex-watcher was indeed a lot less stuck up than before, that he was sure of, but there was a limit to everything and this was it!

Fred laughed nervously. "Of course we don't." It didn't sound that convincing. Spike and Xander immediately started changing the subject.

"So um . Dawn is coming in the weekend?" Xander asked Spike.

"Yeah, she and Red will be heading out here Saturday morning."

"Good, that's good." Fred chuckled nervously.

******

Lorne and his new 'girlfriend' sat on a table together in a restaurant of a friend of the green demon. Laura looked up from her salad to see Lorne looking elsewhere, chuckling. She followed his gaze and watched as an elderly woman yelled at her husband three tables away. She turned to a still chuckling Lorne, amazed. "I know you're a people reader, but I never thought you were a people watcher."

Lorne shook his head. "No, it's just . Mr. Harrison upset the wife again."

"You know them?" she asked.

"They come here *too* often. Mrs. Harrison demands pampering." He grinned as he watched to woman drag her husband to a small dance floor near the softly playing orchestra.

"Seems *you* come here too often yourself," she commented with a raised eyebrow.

"Yeah, well, me, Fred and Spike later on used to come here sometimes before or after Caritas." He sipped his beverage then waved the half-empty glass. "Spike can be a real embarrassment, I'll tell ya."

"Why does Spike come here? Do they serve blood?" Laura asked confused.

"Well, unlike Angel, Spike does enjoy food. And yeah since Valdamar is a half Dercan, they serve blood on request." Lorne grimaced. "But you don't want to be around him when he adds a combination of both. I still can't look at a cheesecake the same way again!"

Laura giggled and reminded herself to change her desert order. "So that explains the hot cocoa."

"What?"

"I've seen Fred take a couple of mugs of hot chocolates to her room once . I assumed it was for her since Spike is a vampire and vampires, to my knowledge, only drink blood." She looked up and smiled at the maître d' as he freshened her drink and did the same to Lorne. "It had confused me seeing that she's extremely thin."

"Spike loves his hot cocoa!" Lorne asserted. "Bet you haven't seen our precious Fred eat! No matter how much she stuffs that cute little mouth of hers she doesn't gain an ounce and if you give her an hour she'd be hounding you to take her to the taco stand!"

Laura smiled sadly. "You seem to like her."

Lorne leaned back. "Fred and I kinda found each other in bad times."

"And Spike?"

"Well, let's say we found him in a bad time. he had just lost his best friend."

"And you guys were there to fill the missing shoes." She looked at him in the eyes. "Let me guess, Xander?"

Lorne smiled. "Well aren't you perceptive, Sugar." He then frowned. "Why the sudden interest.?"

She cut in, "I don't think they like me."

The dark haired woman looked down sadly. Her hand was picked up and kissed. She looked up, her gray eyes even more transparent.

"Give 'em time, Laura. They'll easily fall in love with you in no time." She couldn't help but smile at his trust.

Still holding onto her hand, he stood up and pulled her to the small dance floor. The two swayed with the music gazing at each other. Something inside of Lorne tingled when Laura rested her head against his shoulder. Lorne knew he was falling in love, if not already in love.

It was a new thing. Not falling in love. He had fallen in love with the harmony and peace of music before when he escaped from Pylea. But this, it was physical. This was falling for a person and receiving something in return.  Back in Lorne's previous home there was no such thing as love and feelings. God knew there was no music! He never knew what love meant until he came to L.A. The green demon enjoyed watching two people in love with each other, yet he had never been one of those people. He used to have a crush on many people. Angel had been one of them. But no one returned the attraction, the feelings. That was until Laura.

He still didn't know if she loved him back or not, but she was returning his affection. That was a start. When he flirted with her, she blushed. That was a good sign. She did seem to care beyond the friendship line.

"Laura?"

She raised her head looking up at him.

He leaned down and brushed his lips against hers. She was shocked at first but then parted her lips. He kissed her passionately and she returned it. Lorne smiled through the kiss. Yeah, she was on the same road as him.

******

Angel kissed Spike and pushed him down flat upon the mattress. He trekked over the planes of Spike's face as he kissed and licked slowly making his way down his mate's neck. When he reached the place where a pulse would have been if the blond were human, he breathed deeply taking in Spike's scent then licked over his bite mark. The dark vampire added small nips that made Spike arch up trying to push harder against his sire. The light moans mixed with impatient growls as the blond tried to pull his lover into a kiss. Angel pulled back and looked at Spike, mischief in his eyes. He then swooped down taking the already pebbled nipples one at a time in his mouth working them between his teeth and tongue.

"Angel!" Spike gasped.

"Mmmhmm?" Angel replied his mouth still occupied.

"Bloody 'ell, luv, don't play around!"

Angel raised his head. His face was expressionless for a split second before a playful glint appeared in his eyes.

Spike shook his head. "No," he said seriously. "No, no, no! Foreplay AFTER sex! ANGEL!!!"

Three seconds later the lithe vampire found his arms restrained over his head, regretting ever buying his lover the strong cuffs. His sire was sitting back on his heals, head to the side examining him appreciatively. "I take back what I said about you, Spike." He licked his lips. "When you put your 'mind' to it. you have great plans."

Spike spoke as if he was talking with a child or a mental patient, him being experienced in both with all his years in the company of Drusilla, "Luv, Angelus, it's no fun when I'm tied up. I can't touch you this way."

Angel was busy running his hands over Spike's thighs but he heard him nonetheless. "Oh, my love, but this way you won't stop my fun." Spike couldn't help but feel the heat rise in him at the lust he saw in his sire's eyes before said whiskey-shaded-eyes dropped down focused on their target. The dark head lowered with a last glance into the blue orbs before it dipped and a pink tongue delicately ran over its goal causing Spike to gasp and arch up wanting more than what the soft touch offered.

"Angel," the name was whispered in a ragged breath.

"Mmmhmm?" The soft lips enclosed around the head and sucked deeply.

"Please!"

Angel released Spike's weeping erection with a pop. He positioned himself over his lover and looked questioningly at the glaring blond.

"Please, what?" he asked innocently.

Spike glared some more. "Stop being a bleedin' tease! Either bugger me or let me go so I can bugger you! Less Princes or the Whelp 'ell get vision-y and one of us will settle with a wank! AGAIN!"

Angel blinked not surprised at his lover's bluntness. They had been busy lately and barely found time for each other than the occasional shower release, the passing kisses, and the interrupted almost office sex. Thankfully, Fred never suspected a thing. For all those reasons, Angel wanted them to take their time now. However, he didn't tell Spike that. He focused on something else.

"And what? You think I can't get you off in the two minutes it takes Wes to research?"

Spike's eyes widened. "You bloody well hope it doesn't take two-fucking-minutes! We barely had any buggering time to shag lately. not with these two ex-Sunnydalians tag teaming us. Not to mention us not having a decent demon hunt together with the followed celebratory quickie since you're an over protective Neanderthal insisting one of us be in the proximity of Connor at all times!"

"Is this you giving me another kind of release?"

Spike snorted. "Xander's rank humor is rubbing on you, pet."

Angel scrunched his nose. He didn't like to have anything in common with that boy. He also didn't like his lover to be talking about someone else when they were in the process of making love. Especially if that someone else was Xander Harris! Operation 'divert attention' was underway.

He lowered his head to the long outstretched neck but passed it. He whispered in the blond's ear, "It's just that I can't trust anyone with my son except you. They're my friends, my adopted family, but you are blood."

Spike felt his anger melt as another body part hardened even more. He loved to hear how much Angel trusted him.

Slow nips that went straight to his groin and caused him to bite his lip to keep from screaming in ecstasy when he felt the sharp fangs dip into him like a scalding knife in butter.

He knew what was coming next. He and Angel barely shared this kind of intimacy for a while now. Spike hated to admit it but it was this way since Connor arrived. They kissed and groped and sucked and bit each other but this primal need was not fulfilled. Spike couldn't deny that the hours spent cuddling with Angel, looking over Connor as he slept, just talking, brought him closer to his mate than they were for a long time. But damn it, he was horny as hell!

That only meant one thing. Spike had to pull out the big guns. Angel wasn't about to finish anytime soon with his game. and Spike needed release a month ago! He needed it hard and he needed it strong. Angel sometimes forgot what they were. vampires. Not that Spike didn't love the tender moments when it was only them, he did, he cherished them over every other memory. However, there comes a time in a man's, vampire's, life, unlife, when he needed to be shown how much he was wanted. And the blond vampire hated to admit it but he sometimes missed Angelus' way of possessing his body. those time were few and very far between but like now they surfaced. He needed his sire to show him with action that he wanted him, desired him, that he didn't replace him with someone else.

~ I am NOT jealous of the Munch! ~

He might have been a little jealous of the new arrival. It was true that it had given him more time to spend with his friends. He promised to be open about it therefore Lorne's constant absence would not be addressed. But he missed how his mate used to literarily fuck him into the mattress that time that Xander did his disappearing act and Spike was extremely worried about him.

Now it was all up to him to quicken the pace. To bring out the vampire in Angel that was hidden even more when the little addition found a residence in their home. He was talking about Connor NOT Laura. He wasn't supposed to speak badly about her!

He wiggled under Angel. His legs hooked themselves around the larger vampire's thighs in an encouraging, not the least bit commanding, way. He threw his head even further to the back and a little to the left, stretching the skin on his neck and exposing the claim mark even more. The mark would urge the demon to appear. The blond whimpered. True to that fact, Angel's smooth features melted into the ragged demon look as the golden orbs fixed themselves on the willing neck.

With half lidded eyes, soft pink full lips parted in unspoken invitation, Spike spoke in a delicate upper-class whisper, "Sire, I need you."

A growl emanated from the large chest. Spike was vibrating with anticipation. This was it. It would be hard. It might bloody hurt. But.

He eyes widened in shock as they watched the muscular body lunge forwards and instead of the expected pain-slash-pleasure, it blurred passed him. He blinked when Angel sat up again with a victorious smile. In his hand was a tube of lube!

In his mind, Spike breathed a sigh of relief. He didn't lie when he had told Lilah that he wasn't that big a fan of pain. He might have missed Angelus' way of possessing him but he had never been fond of the pain that came with it.

Angel, on the other hand, cared enough to ease it for him. Even though he knew that Spike asked for it, he still took the time to make it more pleasurable. Spike smiled up at his mate and accepted the passion filled kiss. He purred when Angel rested his head against his own.

Angel must have felt his worry from the little blood he drank earlier. Spike let out the happy purr as well as impatience through the bond.

Angel laughed. "I get the message." With one last kiss, his pulled back and positioned himself. With lube in hand, he opened it to ready himself and Spike.

~ About bloody time! ~

Spike could hardly stand the suspense. His sire held his eyes, promise of pleasure in his whisky eyes. The cuffed vampire knew he was literally vibrating for his touch. All of a sudden, Angel sprinted off the bed and into the connecting room after quickly throwing his robe on. Spike fell down with an annoyed groan. Distantly, he could hear his 'lover' shushing his son and rummaging around the room changing him as his bottle heated.

~~~*~~~

Angel took the finished bottle from his son's mouth, lifted the infant to his shoulder and patted his back until a bubble came up. He held his son up to look in his face and the little child blinked back at him before yawing sleepily. The vampire smiled and placed him in his bassinet, covered him with his blanket and softly kissed his small head.  With one last look at the slumbering toddler, he exited to his room once again and left the door to the adjoining room, now Connor's nursery, slightly agar.

He took off his robe and neatly placed it in its right place on his way to the bed. He stopped several feet from his destination. Spike was snoozing, his head slightly to the side, still handcuffed to the bed. Angel shook his head fondly. Quietly, after easing into the bed, as not to wake his sleeping childe, he took the cuffs off and pulled his mate so that the blond's naked back was plastered against his wide chest. He pulled the covers over their bodies. His head found its usual place in the hollow of Spike's neck before he drifted to sleep as well.

Spike opened his eyes and looked down at the arms that encircled his waist and from them to the cuffs to the chamber out on the night table. He had used it to keep Xander grounded, to anchoring to this plane, to keep his friend, so that his life would be complete. He would have it all: home, lover, family and friends.

His eyes were emotionless. His soul, in contrast, was screaming at him for not being content with all he had. What *he* had. Angel was here with him. That was all that mattered. He trusted Angel not to hurt him again and Angel. he trusted Spike with his most valued. with his son.

He blinked one last time before his blue eyes hid behind long lashed lids.

~ Bloody soul is taking this brooding thing too seriously ~

~~~*~~~

Angel stopped in his tracks as he was heading to the kitchen. He backtracked and stood in the office doorway. Spike was sitting behind the desk writing something. Angel leaned against the door.

"What're you doing?" he asked casually. He had just woken up to find Spike's side of the bed empty.

Spike didn't raise his head for a few seconds. With a sigh, he closed the file he was writing in, stood up and placed it in the filing cabinet.

He stretched as he walked pass Angel towards the kitchen and spoke over his shoulder, "Your 'boss' insists that I file all my cases for 'future reference'," the last two words were mimicked well to resemble the ex-watcher.

Angel smiled silently and followed.

In the kitchen, the blond pulled two mugs out of the cupboard. He then opened the fridge and reached into a specific rack, pulled out two blood bag , threw them carelessly into the microwave that Cordelia proclaimed the vampires' before buying a new one with Angel's credit card, and pressed the preset button.

During all that, Angel had taken a seat at the table. He hooked his hands under his chin and observed his lover as he made their breakfast. In his mind, he was deciding what breakfast to make for his crew who would be arriving within the hour.

"You had a case last night?" Angel asked since he remembered that Spike had fallen asleep before him. "I didn't hear you leave."

Spike froze for a split-second as the beep signaled then he resumed preparing their liquid meals.

"Yeah, well you seemed worn-out. You did go off killing those nasty Fyarls then there was the. feeding the Munch 'is bottle. You didn't even twitch when Xan popped in to deliver The Powers That Barf's message. thought it'd better not to wake you."

Angel didn't seem to detect Spike's detached tones or how he was trying to compensate for it. That or he associated it with the late hour case and lack of enough sleep. He did however catch one thing.

"Xander was in our room?"

Spike rolled his eyes. He picked up their warm mugs and placed them on the table. He pulled out a chair and sat down sipping his meal and relishing the warmth in his hands.

"It's 'is job now, ain't it?" He raised his eyebrow daring Angel to deny that.

Angel took a large gulp. "That might be the case. but he's not welcome in our room. he shouldn't be able to."

Spike cut in, "Xan's always welcome where I am. Thought we already settled it. Or if what Xander said . you two'd settled it."

Angel's cheek twitched but other than that, he remained calm. "What did Harris tell you exactly?" Inside his head, he was ringing his hands like a girl worriedly. The fear of Spike finding out what he did and how he would react scared the fearless vampire.

Spike frowned as he tried to recall. "Not much really. Just that you two found an even ground or something along that. what really happened? He's right tight lipped about it," he asked licking his lips when a drop of blood threatened to slip.

Angel tore his eyes from the alluring sight and coughed. "Yeah, well, it was, stuff, and what Xander said. We're ok. as ok as we'll be now." However, the thought of his childe's guardian in his room where Spike was naked still made him want to throttle the dead boy. He covered his tightlipped expression by gulping the last of his blood.

It seemed that Spike forgot about it as he concentrated once more on his meal. Angel knew however that this wasn't the end to the younger vampire's meal as he tended to snatch some of his friends food grossing them out by dipping it in his remaining blood before slurping it. Yet, Angel knew that their friends got used to it after all this time they only made the 'yuk' faces to please Spike, mostly.

The only person that that action still revolted, other than Angel who even though was glad of how much his friends had taken to his lover still couldn't fathom how slurping bloody eggs *loudly* didn't disgust them, was Laura. Nevertheless, she was still fairly new, given time she would get used to it as well, up till now she was the one that gave Spike the most encouragement with how she closed her eyes trying to drum out the sight and sound. Angel had a feeling that she was with them indefinitely, not because her case still hadn't been resolved, but because how his green friend was infatuated with her.

Angel smiled. He was glad Lorne finally found someone. He looked at Spike's lowered thoughtful face and his smile melted into a frown. His childe was out the night before. Helping someone as he did now being a vampire with a soul as well, but mostly because it was the right thing to do and his friend had come back from Heaven for that very purpose. It still amazed Angel sometimes to think of how Xander had grown to give away his peace like that, but it scared him as well. For he believed that Xander's love for Spike was the reason and now he had an eternity to find a way to make Spike return his love. The brunet vampire shook his head. He reminded himself of what Xander had told him. That matter was resolved!

~ Then why don't I feel that it is? ~

He returned his mind to the matter at hand. Spike was out, fighting most likely if the light scratches on his face meant anything. Clearly, he had won, but Angel still felt his chest tighten at the thought of something getting his mate while he was home sound asleep. He was now less worried since the chip was removed. Humans couldn't harm Spike anymore. But Angel still worried. He knew that he couldn't tell Spike that or the blond would glare at him and stomp off saying that he wasn't weak or that Angel didn't trust him to do his job, a job that apparently 'The Powers That Barf' thought him capable of doing.

Angel always held his grin when Spike called the PTB that. It amused him to see his lover blame them for making him miss an episode of Passions. Yet the older vampire knew that Spike's problem with the powers was for them giving Xander that choice. As much as Spike cared for his friend and was glad to see him alive---back, he would rather know that he was in peace than destined to spending eternity alone after everyone he knew passed away.

Angel mentally groaned. Couldn't he brood-think of something other than Xander? His mate was out last night. Chip-less or not, there was still danger from Wolfram and Hart and none of them should go off on a mission alone. It was time. Angel had given Spike the time to speak of it on his own. He didn't.

"I think its time we had that talk."

Spike raised his head. He placed his hand over his dead heart. "Are you gonna break up with me?! After you used me so!" he said in mock outrage. Nevertheless, Angel noticed the worry that he tried, like always, to hide behind well-placed barbs.

"It's about what happened in Wolfram &Hart. why did they take out your chip. not that I'm not glad.. I've always worried when you leave without one of us that you would be attacked by some human. but why did Lilah do that?"
 
 

Spike sighed. He was actually amazed that Angel had held strong this long. Not asking him much about his experience with W&H. He knew that it was mostly to there being a new mission everyday. but still he had to hand it to his mate and his patience. Spike knew if the situations were reversed, he would demand that Angel tell him everything. He knew now it was time. He didn't want to worry his lover without need but he deserved to know.

"Queen Bitch though she could get me on her side if she took out the bleedin chip."

Angel shook his head confused. "But why. the operation when you were." he couldn't finish as his eyes burned gold at the remembrance of his childe's pain that he shared a part of.

Spike chuckled bitterly. "See, she thought that I've lost my blood lust working with you lot. she thought a little pain would bring out the beast in me."

"But then when you refused even after." Angel prompted needing to know the whole story even though his cold blood was boiling in his veins.

"She let effin' Carl have at me with 'is experiments. That twat didn't get why I wouldn't be happier bringing back Angelus drinking out of the innocents unwilling necks."

"Wait. she didn't know."

"Bout my shiny released soul?" Spike shook his head. "Nope. Guessed that from 'er reaction. I wasn't bloody willing to share info over my battered body either."

Angel nodded. "That's wise. Wes had told me that since your soul had always been there that it wouldn't register in whatever works as a radar for the Senior Partners or their seers. He had made the assumption that they didn't know but I."

Spike stretched his hand and held Angel's firmly. "You thought that Lilah vamp nabbed me coz I was a mini you and could substitute for the Souled Vampire prophecy?"

Angel looked at him surprised. Spike smirked. "You'd be amazed what sort of stories Percy would talk about over a cup of tea."

Angel shrugged. "Yeah, well, Lilah hates my guts and if it weren't for the Senior Partners' plan she would do whatever she could to dust me."

"Not gonna happen, luv. Not if I have anything to say about it," Spike stated firmly.
 
 

Angel locked eyes with him. "Same here, Spike. I'm glad you didn't tell them about your soul." He stood up and pulled Spike by his hand then held him. "I can't lose you," he whispered.

Spike purred and burrowed his head in his sire's neck licking over the bite mark.

"Do it," Angel urged him, pushing his head encouragingly.

That was all Spike needed before he dropped his fangs and let them slice neatly into the skin. Angel moaned. He pushed Spike against the table. Spike, still attached to his sire's neck, hopped on it and wrapped his legs around Angel's pulling him closer whilst his hand skimmed under his half opened shirt.

Angel was doing the same to Spike and already had his shirt off and was now working on his pants. Spike pulled back causing his mate to moan at the loose then he tried to pull the blond back.

"No," Spike said as he forced their bodies apart. "You're gonna pass out if you lose any more blood, where's the fun in that?"

His eyes glinted before he presented his neck in return. The older vampire's eyes glazed over. He slowly began to lower his head. Half way there, his demon face came forth. Once he reached his mark, he scratched it delicately causing Spike to buck against him desperately. Angel's fangs bit into the skin.

"Do it, sire!" Spike gasped. He had opened Angel's pants and he was ready as his pants were pooled on the ceramic floor. Angel was standing there in the middle of the kitchen with only an open shirt on with a naked Spike on the table already positioning himself.

Angel pulled his head back and shook his face. When he noticed Spike's frown at his action he explained.

"It doesn't feel right to do this in my true aspect."

Spike puckered his brow. "What are you talking about? It's not the first time you fucked me all growly."

Angel sighed and rubbed his head causing his hair to stick on end even more. "Yeah, but I have a son now. a human son. I shouldn't be embracing being a vampire too often." he stopped when Spike pulled away and jumped off the table and started pacing before he stopped and looked back at Angel.

"But you are a vampire!" He looked at him pointedly. "So am I."

Angel tried to pull him back to him but Spike avoided his reach and picked up his pants pulling them on, the zipper still undone. Angel sighed and took his lead.

"Is this. gonna affect us?" Spike asked sadly.

"Spike, you know I love you but with a soul and a son."

Spike waved his arms. "Hello. same boat here! You don't see me forgetting what I am!"

Angel opened his mouth to say something but stopped. Spike narrowed his eyes as he noticed. He wondered what Angel was about to contradict, but wasn't going to be the one to bring it up.

Spike sighed. "Angel? Do you think the Munchkin won't love ya when he finds out you're a vamp?"

Angel looked down and didn't answer.

Spike leaned closer and raised his lover's head. "You . Are . A . Wanker."

Angel blinked. "That's supposed to make me feel better how?"

Spike shook his head not believing how dense his mate was. "What is the sure cure to a Connor fit as Princess calls it?"

Angel furrowed his brow before it clicked. He actually looked timid and whispered, "When I or you growl at him."

"Exactly!" Spike said in triumph as if Angel answered the million-dollar question, which for the dark haired vampire was a close tie.

"I mean even Fred is practicing making vampire faces and growls when she and Percy baby-sit . which is sickeningly sweet to watch . so she wouldn't need to disturb our makeout session in your office."

Angel gasped. "She knows about those? How?"

Spike snorted. "Mate, you were about to shag me into the breakfast table. in plain sight of anyone who walks in and you're worried that the Science Wiz caught us snogging a couple of times?"

Angel pulled back and looked at the kitchen entrance horrified then back at the smirking Spike.

"She saw us. twice?!"

******

What did happen the night before while Angel was sound asleep?

"You'd tell me right? I mean you're my best mate and all."

Xander frowned confused. They were walking, or in Xander's case floating, towards the location of Spike's mission. Spike was asking vague questions and Xander wasn't sure if he wanted to understand them. But being the guardian, he had to listen to people's distress. ~ I don't hate my job, but sometimes people just get upset over silly reasons. ~

 "I am your best friend," he confirmed Spike's earlier statement. "But tell you what exactly?"

"If I were ugly," Spike declared sadly.

"If you were. huh?" Xander shook his head to clear the haze.

"It's just that Angel isn't paying me any attention and." Spike said glumly and kicked at a pebble on the pavement.

Xander tried to hold back a chuckle that was trying to escape, but it seemed that he failed if the glare Spike was shooting him was any indication.

"Bloody well laugh!"

There Xander lost it. He tried to hold himself upright while patting an obviously hurt vampire, and then settled for hooking his arms over his friends shoulder as they continued walking.

~ God, is Spike acting like such a girl or what! ~

"I'm no freakin' girl ya git!"

"Oops." Xander placed his other hand over his mouth. He apparently said that out loud. "Um . well Spike don't kill me for saying this," after thinking about that, "actually you can't kill me for saying this since I'm already dead. Hey, I just realized something! Does this mean I can't keep calling Angel Deadboy anymore?!"

Spike rolled his eyes at the boy's ranting, cocked his head to one side, better to look at the brunet and said, "Please tell me you've got a point soon?"

"Oh, sorry," the dark-haired boy replied, "Was lost in old musings there." The vampire pushed his arm off his shoulder and turned to glare at him. Spike was growling low in his throat. The now incorporeal soul raised his hands in mock defense. "Getting a point. Dea . Angel is only spending more time with Connor that's all."

"So doesn't mean he can get over his overly protective arse, give the tyke over to Fred and pound me into the mattress, now does it?"

Xander held his hands over his ears his eyes firmly shut. "La, La, La, De-nile is so pretty this time of year!"

Spike snorted. "Whatever do you think Angel and I did that time we didn't come out for almost two days?" He raised his eyebrow.

Xander hands lowered and he peeked from behind half open eyelids indicating to Spike that he obviously heard him. "Making chocolate chip cookies and then eating them all in your room so not to give anyone else a taste," he said with a pout.

Spike shook his head and continued walking. "And you're upset why? It's not like you can eat them," he said behind his shoulder.

Xander caught up to him and walked by his side. Or did whatever he did that substituted for walking since he couldn't touch the pavement.

"Well it is nice to be asked you know."

Silence was the only thing between them for a couple of minutes.

"So you never answered my question."

Xander turned his head to the right to look at Spike. "What question?"

"Do you think I'm ugly?" Spike asked with a straight face secretly holding in his smile.

"GOD NO!" Xander denied venomously, too venomously he realized. His hand once again was needlessly placed over his mouth, as wide eyes were looking everywhere but at the vampire at his side.

"Oh?" Spike raised an eyebrow and smirked. "Then how do you see me, pet?"

Xander's form began to shimmer. "Uh, I, well."

A high-pitched scream fell on their ears. It seemed to be coming from around the block.

Xander pointed eagerly in that direction. "We better hurry or your damsel - not really a damsel - in woman clothing, is gonna get eaten!"

Spike frowned at that but started running knowing that he would get what his friend was talking about when he got there.

Xander sighed in relief. He turned his head up to the sky, "Thanks! I owe you guys one," then followed his warrior.

******

"So I was thinking of taking Dawn shopping tomorrow," Cordelia chatted casually with Fred while the young women were sitting in the lobby looking through magazines.

"What about Willow?" Fred asked confused, but her expression changed into a wide-eyed look at a picture of a naked woman sucking on a guy's . she quickly closed the magazine and looked at the name.

~ Ah, French mag, figures. ~

"Well," Cordelia, eyes glued to her fashion weekly subscribers-only magazine, answered Fred's question. "I thought you and Willow would be happier if you did your geeky stuff on the computer."

Fred opened her mouth defensively, but shut it as she considered Cordelia's words with a cute frown on her face. "You're right," she pouted when she realized that her acceptance meant that she was a geek. She never really cared that she was, but the smug look on Cordelia's face irritated her.

"Queen C knows all," the ex-cheerleader said with a smirk.

Fred sighed. "So when do you think they'll be here?" Inside she was excited to show Willow the new computer program she had developed, however she wasn't letting the anti-geek queen know that.

"I don't know, Willow said they might leave around 10 or 11. Either way they're gonna here around noon."

Fred nodded flipping through the magazines until she found the most decent one according the cover. Nevertheless, she started flipping the pages with caution.

A few seconds with only the sounds of paper pages being flipped dominated the lobby before Cordelia sighed, placed the magazine carefully besides her making sure she marked the page, stood up and called out interrupting the peaceful silence, "Guys!"

Angel, Spike, Wesley, Gunn, Fred and Laura looked at her. They had been scattered all over the lobby, each with their own reading material, choosing silence and hiding behind their chosen book, fearing that their unique own geek-ness would be attacked by the sharp tongued brunette.

"We better hustle. A huge green demon with funny claws is attacking a woman and her son in the middle of a street six blocks from here."

Angel and Wesley caught each other's eyes. They still thought it was strange that Cordelia received her visions with no fuss or the accompanied screams of pain, not that they wanted that for their friend but it still was a little different.

Gunn threw his comic book, avoided the look his girlfriend gave him, picked an ax and headed with her out the doors.

"Alright! Needed some bloody action," Spike exclaimed taking a similar axe, after relieving himself of the poetry book he and Angel were sharing, and headed to the door. However, a large hand grabbed his arm stopping him in his tracks. He looked back to meet Angel's eyes.

"What about Connor?" Angel asked firmly nodding his head to the baby sleeping peacefully in the transportable crib.

Spike's eyes widened and he began shaking his head. "No, no, no! You stay here and play Nanny-with-a-better-voice. I'm going."

"Spike, this is my mission. When Xander sees a mission for you, you'd fight and I'd stay here. Remember?"

Spike looked defeated. "Why does it have to be me? Let Fred stay, she's no fighter, I am."

Angel drew Spike closer to him, whispering so Fred, Laura and Wesley, who was grabbing his books, wouldn't hear. "I don't trust anyone with him but you Spike. No one touches this baby unless I was in the room with them, but when I'm not here it's only you I trust to take care of him. You know that."

The trust in Angel's eyes warmed Spike's heart. He nodded with a huff. "Alright, go do your white knight act and I'll be here with the sprout."

Angel kissed Spike passionately, took the axe from his hand and headed out the door.

Spike heaved a sigh and turned to be faced with Fred's angry eyes. "She's no fighter, hmm?" she gritted heatedly, hands on hips.

Spike waved her off. "Yeah, yeah, I'll teach you later," he said in a bored tone.

Her eyes widened in disbelief but Wesley pushed her to the entrance before she could give it to the vampire. Spike spotted Laura sitting on the centered gray sofa looking at him. When his eyes caught hers, she looked down shyly.

"Why don't you go with them, pet? They can drop you at Caritas with Lorne like always." He smiled kindly, remembering his conversation with Xander and Fred, trying to make an effort at friendship for the sake of his green friend.

Laura glanced at the baby's crib then smiled at Spike. "No, I'm a little tired. I think I'll stay in today. but thanks Spike." She smiled stunningly at the vampire.

Spike shrugged not affected by the starlit-smile, carefully took out Connor out of his bed, held him cautiously in his arms so not to rouse him, and then started up the stairs.

"Where are you going?" Laura asked, confused at Spike's retreating back.

"Taking the kid to his room, he's dosing off," he said as he took the stairs two at a time.

"Oh, okay," she whispered, her eyes not wavering off the sleeping baby.

~~~*~~~

"The Gub'sa demon is quite large and it's hard to kill because of its ."

"Do you think it was wise leaving Connor home?"

Fred groaned. "Angel, stop it! It's already getting old!" The physicist was sick of how Angel always worried about leaving Connor, even if he were with Spike.

"But what if ."

"Nothing is gonna happen! Spike is there with him!"

"But ." Angel trailed off looking uncertainly at the road.

He was driving his car as fast as possible to get to the location of the demon that Cordelia had given them. The seer and her street fighter had taken Gunn's truck and were leading the way, which was the only reason the vampire couldn't pass them. Angel was fighting the urge to turn around back to the hotel. He was always apprehensive whenever his seer received a vision and he had to leave Connor home with Spike. He should have gotten over it by now. It had been three months! He was a vampire and he should be emotionally stronger than this. Unfortunately, for him the father in him was stronger than the vampire.

"But what if something bigger than this demon attacked the hotel and Spike couldn't ."

"Angel!" Wesley shouted. "Would you please stop talking and pay attention to the details about this demon we're going to fight, please." Wesley sighed. "Besides, Fred is right. Spike can take care of himself and Connor."

Nonetheless, Angel was still worried.

******

"Can I come in?"

Spike looked away from the T.V. to the voice then to Connor who was happily enjoying his toys on his play matt.

"Sure." Spike shrugged as he muted the T.V. He had seen this episode before. Ross and Rachel were fighting about 'The Break' again.

Laura entered with two steaming cups in her hands. She carefully took a seat next to the couch were Spike was sprawled and placed the two cups on the table in front of her.

There was only silence for nearly a minute while Laura looked everywhere but at Spike. The vampire raised his eyebrow amused with her actions at the same time noting what she had brought.

"You fixed cocoa?"

She met his eyes then and blushed. "I have to admit I've been hounding Lorne for info on what you like. He confirmed that you like hot chocolate."

Spike sat up and leaned forward to give Connor a toy that was out of his reach. "You don't fancy me, do you?" he asked not looking at the gray-eyed woman.

Laura was shocked into silence for a second before giggling. "Oh, no, you're with Angel. he's very possessive." She was pleased to note how Spike smiled at her for not denying. "Actually, I wanted you to like me. Lorne cares a lot about you. I just wanted to get on your good side."

Spike tilted his head. "You care for Lorne a lot, don't you?"

She didn't hesitate at all this time, "Yes, I do. And I know he would like it even more if you guys approve of me. I know I'm still an outside here. with my case and all."

"You don't need to, you know," Spike interrupted her. "Red-eyes is so taken with you he can't see straight at times."

Laura smiled sadly. "I know. Sometimes I think I don't deserve all of it." She was about to say something else but said instead, "Oh my, the drinks are gonna be frozen by this rate. they must taste awful!" She was about to get up with the drinks in her hands but Spike stopped her.

"No need, pet. Hand mine over." He smiled kindly. If Laura was willing to go to all this trouble to do all this for Lorne then he should make an effort as well. Even if it meant enduring awful hot chocolate. No one could make it like Joyce.

~ At least she was thoughtful enough to put in those mini marshmallows I like ~

The young woman sat down reluctantly and slowly handing Spike his drink. The vampire nearly had to wrench the warm cup out of her hand. She leaned back in her seat, holding her own cup in both hands warming them and watched the vampire drink trying to hide his grimace.

Connor squealed at something while the T.V. was still flashing in silence.

******

"Gub'sa demons are evil!"

Wesley held the door open for his girlfriend. "Yes, dear, they are."

"I'm staying home the next time!" Fred whined as she entered the hotel. It was a difficult walk down the steps with hardening goop covering her clothes and body.

Wesley chuckled. "Cordy and Gunn sure had the right idea. They took Gunn's truck straight to her apartment to wash up."

"They didn't get hit with this icky stuff like me! They only got spattered a little. big babies." The brunette pouted some more and Wesley proved how much he loved her by holding his grin in check. He took her weapon from her and placed it with his into the weapon's cabinet.

"Fred, you got Gub'sa blood on my leather seats! Do you know how difficult they are to get out?"

Wesley rolled his eyes. His friend could be such a child sometimes.

"So sorry, Angel. I did try to hold myself up on my hands. and, hey!" She glared. "It's your fault anyway! You should've yelled duck or something before you cut its last head off!"

Wesley bit the inside of his cheek. He was the only one other than Angel who didn't get any of the demon's blood on his clothes. The dark-haired vampire actually looked sheepish because of Fred's accusation.

"You had it distracted, Fred. If I warned you to get out of the way I would've blown my cover. and we'd be still trying to kill it." Angel now really sounded like a baby.

"Well now your leather seats have reaped what you planned." She nodded but not too firmly, so that the purple goop wouldn't fall from her hair.

"Fred," Wesley said with a sigh. "Why don't you go take a nice soothing bath and."

Fred smiled enticingly at him, as enticing as she could with goop over her, and interrupted him whispering, "Would you help with the hard to reach places?"

Wesley blinked at her before his face flushed. "If you'd like."

"I really would." Fred smiled back at him.

"That's not right."

Fred froze before turning to the dark vampire. "I know you have vamp hearing and all Angel but even if you didn't it's 'not right' of you to listen to."

"It's not about your shared bath." Angel shook his head. He was still holding on to the ax that he had secured from Spike. "The hotel is *too* quiet. I can't even hear Spike's T.V. blaring."

Fred and Wesley exchanged worried looks.

"Perhaps Spike thought he'd take Connor to visit with Lorne?"

Fred nodded. "Y-yeah. Lorne had hardly seen Connor and."

Angel frowned. "Spike would never take my son out without my consent."

Fred's eyes widened and she was about to reply to that but Angel had already bolted up the stairs. The other two were on right on his heals, their hearts pounding in their ears.

The two reached Angel's room breathless to find their vampire friend shaking his blond lover roughly over the couch. Fred gasped and ran up to Angel trying to pull his arms off her friend's shoulder.

Angel let go of Spike and the lithe vampire's form fell lifelessly into Fred's arms causing her to topple onto the couch with Spike over her.

"Angel!" Wesley was shocked the events that had transpired in such a short time. The ex-watcher took a few steps back when Angel turned to him his golden eyes glowering.

"She was here and Connor's missing," Angel growled through his fangs.

"She." Fred mumbled under Spike before she pushed the unconscious vampire into a sitting position.

Before Angel could say anything Wesley guessed, "Laura."

"What?" Fred spluttered. "Why would."

"What do you know?" Angel hissed at Wesley.

Wesley looked at him straight in the eye not affected by his appearance or unspoken accusation. "The mug on the table. a non-magic user would not be able to sense it. even someone who is a user of magic could hardly detect it. I only did because I have used this particular potion several times before."

The moment they had arrived, Wesley had noticed the two cups on the table: one full and the other half-empty. Something strange in itself considering they all knew how much Spike loved his hot cocoa and would never give it a chance to cool, drinking it all as soon as he laid his hands on it.

Wesley leaned in knowing that two pairs of eyes were following his every move. He muttered a soft incantation and waved his hand over table. A purple mist appeared over the half-empty cup before disappearing.

"Laura potion-ed Spike!" Fred gasped knowing that her boyfriend had performed a revealing spell.

"And she took Connor. I could smell her in the room the moment I walked in," Angel growled.

"Yes, it seems Ms. Gray had lied to us. She had used a potion to force Spike into sleep and procured Connor. The question here is. why?"

"Bloody Hell, I feel like I've been hit over the head with a troll hammer."

"A common side affect of this particular potion." Wesley nodded assessing his point.

Spike stood up then stopped as he swayed on his feet. "Potion? What potion?!"

Before anyone could answer, Spike found himself flattened against the wall face first with Angel growling at him, pushing at him firmly.

"MY son! You lost him! That bitch lied to us all and took him away. all she needed was your stupid obsession for a fucking drink! Darla gave her life for him. I trusted him to you and you couldn't even protect him!"

Spike gasped when Angel pushed him one last time before pulling several feet away with a growl, panting. Spike turned away from the wall and rubbed his sore face.

"Connor? What. where?" Spike said at a loss of words and still a little disoriented.

Fred stood beside him and clasped his hand, an anchor for both of them. She didn't look at Angel while she spoke. "Laura tricked us all. She could do magic after all and she did one on you and made you fall asleep while she kidnapped Connor," she said with a hitch in her voice and shiny eyes. She bit her lip when she saw the horrified look in Spike's eyes when he realized what happened. Angel still hadn't stopped his intense scrutiny of her friend and she felt that she needed to be out of the charged room before she broke down. Everything was going so well and now this ruptured into their lives!

Fred slipped out of the room only to be stopped halfway by Wesley calling her. She didn't turn to look at him as she wiped at her eyes before he came into the line of her vision with a worried look on his face.

She didn't give him a chance to speak. "I-I'm gonna go call Cordy and Gunn and tell them." she gasped. "Oh my God! Lorne! I can't tell him." Her voice hitched and pushed away Wesley comforting arm.

"It's horrible of me b-but I'll let Cordy and Gunn tell him when they pick him up. Willy can." her mumbles drifted away as she walked away from Wesley.

The ex-watcher stood there with his arm still outstretched. Slowly he lowered it with a sigh and returned to Angel and Spike's apartment.

As soon as he entered he asked, "Angel what is our course of action?" Wesley looked at his friend for answers. He needed to get his own mind off Fred. It was true that Wesley did most of the planning but the vampire's child was in peril this time.

Angel didn't answer the ex-watcher's question. Since he had pulled away from Spike, he couldn't keep his golden eyes off him. Finally, with a sigh he turned his back to the blond.

Spike's eyes widened and he felt his chest contract. "Sire," was whispered too low for Wesley to hear but not a vampire. Yet, Angel didn't respond and exited the room.

Spike stood there his hands balled into tight fists. He looked at Wesley for something but his fellow English man only gave him a sympathetic smile and followed Angel knowing predictably that he would be heading to the seclusion of the office to think, leaving Spike on his own.

Blue eyes lowered. The sound of teeth grinding painfully could be heard as the gleaming azure orbs locked unwavering on a toy. The same toy that he had given to Connor a short while back smiling as the little boy gurgled happily up at him in thanks. That was. before Spike allowed a manipulating witch kidnap his charge.

With a strong registered sniff, Spike yanked his duster off the rack and took the backstairs way out.

******

Spike was quickening his pace trying to reach his destination as quickly as possible. His booted feet snapped his duster away from his legs with angry motions as he sauntered over the pavement.

"Well, well, well, if it isn't my best bud!"

Spike froze in his tracks and an involuntary growl omitted from the angry vampire. He jerked his head to the side then slowly began to circle his addresser.

"You'd do well to stay out of my way, human. Me sire has dibs on your life. I don't plan on a whoopin' coz I ate his toy." He didn't mention that his mate was already angry enough with what he did he didn't need to more fuel to add to the fire he had caused.

The tall man cackled and chugged back the paper bag covered drink. He had just exited the liquor store when he caught sight of the blond. He frowned when no more drink came out of the bottle and threw it, frustrated, at the vampire's feet.

Spike didn't even flinch.

"Listen, Bugger. I don't have to time to play. I'm in a rush. torture you later." he said as he turned to leave more important thing filling his mind than the bastard in front of him.

"I lost my job because of you, you vampire scum! Ms. Morgan blamed me for your escape!" Carl sneered at Spike, who turned to look at him disgusted. "'Course I was suppose to be let go the W&H way, but since I had some 'benefits' with dear Lilah. I got away with only losing my job."

Spike pushed his tongue against his teeth and nodded. "Well old chap, I feel for ya, really. But I had a somewhat begrudging hate for you before but now that you've been." He shuddered in disgust. "I wonder if you have any self-respect whatsoever. That's really the lowest of the low. boofing the Queen Bitch. but hey, to each their own and all that rot." He smirked. "Guess you weren't good, bet that dozy mare was gagging for it, I saw how she was eyeing that Ethan bloke. you couldn't even hump your job back, now that's pathetic."

"Fuck you!" Carl yelled. "It was my life, you shit! Passed down from my father to me after his grandfather. wait no he was my grandfather but his dad. it goes back hundreds of years.!"

"Blah, blah, blah, blah, blah, oh I'm touched you're telling me your sad pissed tale. really. I'd cry but ." Spike pointed away with his finger. "I gotta run . see a green demon about a liar witch. Later you twisted trotter!" and with that he turned to leave.

Only to find himself face first on the ground, his body in spasms. Carl had shocked him with an electrifying rod. The feeling was not unlike what the he experienced when the Initiative soldiers had captured him. He was turned onto his back by a muddy shoe.

Carl looked down at Spike a twisted smile on his lips. "I never did get to finish playing with you."

******

Furious, Angel headed to his room to get the ax he had dropped. He had to run fast before Connor was harmed. The problem was that he didn't know where his son was.

Wesley had followed him to the office and continued badgering him on the situation, on what to do. How the Hell was he supposed to know? All he knew was that some human witch tricked them for so long, pretending to be an innocent, just for the chance to kidnap his son. She didn't even have the courtesy to leave a ransom note to tell them what was what. For all the vampire knew, she had taken his son to sell him in the rare species black market. There were thousands of those; he wouldn't even know where to start!

That was when Fred's yell had caught their attention and they exited the office. A now much cleaner Fred was standing in the middle of the lobby, trying to comfort a distraught Lorne. Cordelia and Gunn were standing behind him looking helpless, it seemed like when they told the green demon what his girlfriend had done, he hadn't taken it well.

Lorne was muttering that he had read her over and over again. He sounded lost. Wesley had come in to relieve his girl and explained that when they were looking into Laura's case so long ago, he had done some research on her clan. It seemed that they were all experienced witches and their specialties lied in manipulating brain functions. They have the power of creating vision and controlling thought.

He guessed that Laura hadn't exercised any of her power before in fear that Wesley might detect it. She only used it against Lorne in Caritas because in the magic filled air it would be hard to determine she was the exerciser. Thus, she sang to The Host and she planted her constructed vision to trick the seer into helping her and bringing her into their home as a helpless innocent. Then she tricked them with her formidable acting.

Cordelia had snorted at that but refrained from saying anything when she noticed how devastated Lorne seemed. Lorne had tried to apologies to a silent Angel but the vampire was too furious and declared that he was going to retrieve his ax from his room before heading out to bust some heads for answers.

The door slammed open and Angel strode into his room. He picked up the ax then when he turned stopped short, the colors from the still flickering T.V. flashed over his face.

"Where's my son?!" he spat out in anger.

"Angel," he heard Xander's worried voice behind him. "Spike is in danger."

The vampire clutched the ax in his hands irritated. "I believe my question was," he turned around to face the younger brunet. "Where is my son?"

"Angel, Connor is fine. No one is going to harm him right now. Who has him needs him unharmed. so don't worry. Spike on the other hand needs your help ."

"I don't care about Spike right now!" Angel yelled wrathfully watching as Xander jumped startled. "Now tell me, where's my son?" the vampire's tone sounded low and dangerous as he repeated his question yet again.

Xander's alarmed stare turned annoyed. He looked up at Angel with a hard star. "I'm not telling you until you save Spike." He crossed his arms in defiance.

Angel growled and lashed out at an incorporeal Xander. He went through the boy's body and fell on the floor painfully, his elbow slamming against the hard wood. He stayed down, frozen yet vibrating in rage.

He didn't need this! He wanted his son back. now! Connor was in danger and this idiot boy was just babbling about his crush that lost his baby!

He looked up sharply to meet Xander's cold brown eyes. "Get up, Angel," the soul said distastefully. "I SO hate that I need you but go help Spike and I promise I'll take you to Connor afterwards."

Picking up the ax that fell when he rammed into the invisible figure, Angel slowly got up. "So you're not going to tell me where my son is then?" he asked quietly.

"Not now, after we rescue Spike ."

"Well fine!" Angel spat. "I don't need your fucking help. I'll look for Connor on my own," saying that Angel turned to leave the room to follow his original plan.

"Shit!" Xander cursed. His body started to vanish. He looked around the room fearfully looking for something. He found it in the night table. It was the anchoring chamber. He hurried towards it, grabbed it and placed it in his arm, a second short of completely vanishing because of Angel's disregard to him.

Faster than the humanly possible, Xander flew towards Angel who was about to exit the room. He grabbed Angel's arm and flung him around.

Angel stumbled backwards and glowered at Xander. "If you're so worried about him, why don't you just fly like Super Dead Boy and save him?!"

Xander blinked for a second processing what the vampire said to him before he shook his head.

"I can't! You think if I could do that I'd be here right now begging you to help!" Xander spat out trying hard not to blink in confusion to try and process what the vampire said to him, it wasn't the time for that now! He pushed the brunet vampire back again, until Angel fell over the couch's arm and flat on the cushion.

The soul looked down at the vampire coldly until he brown eyes met his. "Listen, Asshole. I know you're in pain right now and can't see things straight. but blaming things on Spike is just too low even for you."

"I ." Angel began.

"Don't excuse yourself! I've seen how you blamed everything on Spike. maybe not so much with the words true, but it was all there. I also know that you don't believe that it was Spike's fault but you blamed him anyway coz you needed someone to blame," Xander said coldly. He could relate to Angel's reactions because he used to act this way. Xander had given into anger many times when he or one of his friends was hurt emotionally or other wise. When Angelus killed Ms. Calendar, Xander blamed it all on Buffy, too blinded to see how it had pained his friend.

"I used to be like that, you know," the guide spoke the truth. "But you see. the big difference between you and me, Angel, is that even when my friends hurt me, I was always there trying to help them out of trouble." That was true too. When Buffy had rejected Xander, it seemed so long ago now, he had snapped harshly at her, felt like hating her. But the moment Giles told him that Buffy had chose to face The Master, he was there and did all he could even teamed with *Angel* of all people to be there for her.

Angel looked heatedly up at Xander. "So what's your point? You're comparing me to you?" He liked being compared to the boy less when the boy did the comparing.

"The point is, dumbass," the brunet stated with an edge to his voice. "Your lover is in danger and you don't seem to care! I know you're worried about your kid but he's fine Angel! Really! I would never lie to you when Connor's at stake. I care about the little kid. Who nabbed him needs him safe... coz they want something from you. Now Spike's vamp-naper doesn't want anything from you, all what he wants is to hurt Spike, AGAIN" Xander was shaking with fear more than anger now. Every second they wasted meant that Spike might endure that pain again.

"I would have gone there myself if Spike had fucking called me but he didn't!" The soul's eyes were becoming glassy, Spike was too disorientated to think about him but the determined look in his eyes didn't waver. "This is your chance Angel. Show Spike that you love him," a shaky breath escaped the younger brunet's lips. "Please go save him," a soft plead came out and brown eyes begged.

Angel stared up at the boy in front of him. A vivid flashback popped into his mind. He was thrown on a couch, looking up at a younger version of Xander. Sixteen-year-old Xander was holding a cross aiming it at him, demanding him to take him to The Master's layer so they could help Buffy. A teenager blinded by love was ready to risk his life to save his the girl he loved.

Angel's eyes widened with shock.

"You're in love with him," he whispered. That fact never stared Angel in the face more clearly than it had done now. It was like Déjà vu but this time it was more intense giving what the boy, man, had given up.

Xander's eyes reclaimed their coldness. So Angel finally got the big picture. The soul had tried hard to believe that whatever he had for the blond vampire was merely a crush. It wasn't a crush. He mentally smiled bitterly recalling how furious Lorne was with him. It was love, strong and pure. No one would ever leave Heaven to become an emotional shadow for anyone if he didn't really love him. He was in love with Spike and he was aware of it, but his feelings weren't important right now. What was important was what Angel felt.

"Aren't *you*?"

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