Parts: 11 - 15
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~Part: 11~
Lilah walked towards Lindsey's office the next morning. After a long bath and a wonderful glass or two of chardonnay the previous night, she discovered a satisfactory alternative to the 'Spike Plan.' She sauntered past Lindsey's secretary and was about to open his door, when a voice stopped her.
"Miss Morgan?" The secretary stood to face the female attorney.
Lilah hastily turned to her. "Yes, um...sorry, I don't know your name." She said with a roll of her eyes, annoyed with the interruption.
"Carol."
"Yes, Carol. What is it?"
"Mr. McDonald is not here today. He called this morning and said he was going to take a few personal days. He said you would not mind."
Lilah's anger was building. He was leaving her alone in the mess. She gritted her teeth. "Did he say where he was going?"
"No, ma'am." She shook her head.
"Fine!" Lilah huffed and stormed back to her office.
*
When Spike awoke, he felt groggy. Unfortunately, the blood he had ingested made him more aware than he had been. He attempted to roll over; but, most of his movement was limited due to chains. He realized that he was in a room with no windows. It was sparsely decorated with a bed, a desk and a few chairs. He was secured to the wall by the same chains from the previous place. His fear returned as he noted that he was still a prisoner. He began to breathe, albeit shallow, to calm himself. His body screamed in pain as his awareness returned. He did see that he was now clad in jeans. It was not enough to shield him from the cold he felt. He shivered.
"Well, you sure sleep a long time." The quiet voice came from across the room. Lindsey walked towards the crouching vampire. "How ya feeling? Huh?" Lindsey laughed as he circled Spike. The blond vampire looked away.
"What are you trying to prove, Spike? You're not a champion. You're just a killer. That's all you are. Such a simple task we asked of you." Lindsey bent down to eye level with Spike. He grabbed the vampire's face roughly and turned it towards him and said with malice, "All you had to do was kill Angel." He forcefully pushed Spike's head away from him so it hit the wall extremely hard. He smiled as he saw the blood pouring from a cut above the vampire's right eye. Spike kept his head turned away from the lawyer.
"Why do you even care, Spike? It's not like Angel even gives a shit about you." Spike slowly closed his eyes. Lindsey grinned as he stood once more. He spoke flippantly. "I mean, Angel has known that we've had you for weeks, but he hasn't come for you. I bet he hasn't even looked." Spike curled up even more as he tried to ignore what Lindsey was saying. Lindsey leaned in closer towards Spike's ear. "You're nothing to him. You're nothing to anybody! I bet you that no one has even noticed that you're gone!"
Spike felt his heart breaking as he heard Lindsey's venomous words. His voice cracked and was dry from misuse. "You're lying! If h-he knew, he'd come for me!"
"Would he?" The lawyer paused. "Angel is good, Spike! Why should he concerned with a piece of shit like yourself?! He has more important things to worry about."
"He's my Sire!" Spike shouted back in his fractured voice. "He would come for me if he knew!" His eyes watered.
"Why, because you two are so close? Because he has helped you so much in the last one hundred years? You've tried to kill him before, Spike. Why would he want to help you?"
Spike's hands flew to the sides of his head as he started to shake. "No...no...no..stop...stop...please..." Spike pleaded as he murmured and shook his head back and forth as tears flowed down his face. He knew in his heart he was truly alone.
Lindsey easily hauled Spike up by the shoulders; Spike's malnourished state had rendered him extremely light in weight. Lindsey threw him against the wall. The blond vampire dropped to the floor as blood poured from his nose.
Lindsey stood over Spike as he struggled to sit up. "No one refuses a deal with Wolfram & Hart, Spike." His eyes narrowed. "No one." He walked over to the desk and returned with a canteen. He placed it on the ground within reach of Spike. "Finish the blood in here." Spike eyes were wide. "This time, it's not drugged. I don't want you all zoned out on me. Where's the fun in that?" With a smirk, he turned to leave the room. Spike slowly lay down on the hard, cold tile floor as his body was wracked with sobs. He whispered, "Sire...please...help me."
*
Angel sat up in bed with a scream as he emerged from a nightmare. "Will!" He shouted into the air. The dark vampire took unneeded breaths as he attempted to calm himself down. He looked at the clock. 9 am. He didn't realize that he fell asleep. He had come up to retrieve something from his room last night. As he regained his bearings, he walked towards the shower to wake himself up fully. He felt sick to his stomach. He dreamed of his precious Will; all he heard were screams. As the hot water cascaded over his face, he scrubbed intensely to cleanse himself of the sense of doom that plagued him.
Angel slowly dressed and went to meet his friends in the lobby. He attempted to smile at his colleagues as he walked across the main floor. With each passing minute, his fear for Spike grew. He could sense the tension with his Sunnydale friends as well.
"Hi, Angel." Cordelia tried to be cheery. "I warmed up some blood for you." She said with a smile as she handed her friend the perfectly warmed mug. Angel had lost his appetite, but took what was offered. He sat down at the front desk and placed the mug next to him. Suddenly he felt a hand on his shoulder. He jumped slightly.
"I did not mean to alarm you, Angel." Giles apologized. "You should rest some more. You do not look well." Giles was commenting on the bags apparent under Angel's eyes.
"I'm fine, Giles." Angel turned to Cordelia. "Any new business?"
"Nope, vision free. Thank whoever! And no new walk-in clients."
Angel did not inquire about Spike because in his heart, he knew there was no new information. He rose to walk into the kitchen. The thought of drinking the blood made him physically ill. He poured it out into the sink and leaned against it and sighed. He heard Giles follow him in. "What do you want?" Angel asked angrily before Giles had a chance to speak.
The Ex-Watcher spoke. "We will find him."
"How? We have no leads. Wherever he is, there is magic protecting the location."
"Wesley and Gunn went to Wolfram & Hart today to confront Lindsey or perhaps interrogate Lilah again. I am hopeful they can return with some new information."
Angel spoke quietly. "I'm having dreams where I can almost feel him. I'm so close and then it all slips away. All that is left are screams of pure agony and the smell of fear." He bowed his head.
"Angel, I have read about the blood bond between the Sire and his or her Childer. Is it possible to use the link to find him?"
Angel shook his head; his chocolate brown eyes filled with regret. "I broke it. After I was ensouled, I had such guilt. I needed to dissociate myself from my previous life. Any family ties I had were broken. Remembering what we had was painful enough. But, to feel it as well was unbearable." Giles placed a hand on Angel's shoulder. "I should have been there for him. I failed him." A tear slipped from his eye.
"I am sure you can make it up to him when we see him. Okay?" Giles smiled at him as they proceeded to exit the kitchen.
Gunn and Wesley were talking to Cordelia and Willow at the counter. "Angel." Wesley began. "I am afraid that we have no new information...except this. We cornered Lilah and she still denies having any involvement. When inquiring about Lindsey, she told us that he took a few personal days starting today."
"That's got to mean somethin'." Gunn added. "If we can somehow find Lindsey, we'll find Spike."
Angel turned to the witch. "Willow, can you try the spell again? Maybe it will work since you are now in LA."
"Sure. Let me get my things." She sprinted upstairs.
'This has to work.' Angel thought to himself.
*
"Feeling better, Spike?" Lindsey taunted as he returned to the room. He bent over to retrieve the thermos and he shook it to determine if the contents were consumed. "Good boy." He said as he ruffled the curly dirt laden locks of the blond vampire. "Jeez, man. You do stink! I'll tell you what. Since I'm feeling generous, I will unlock you and allow you to shower. You did what you were told." He retrieved the key and unlocked the shackles. He aided Spike in helping him stand. The blond vampire's knees buckled as he had not placed weight on his legs for some time. Lindsey said nothing as he led him out of the room. Spike noticed that they were in a rather spacious country house. It was a short walk to the bathroom. He led Spike to the sink where he disengaged himself from the weak vampire. He went to sit on the toilet. Spike used the white porcelain basin to steady himself.
"Strip." Lindsey commanded.
With shaky hands, Spike's fingers fumbled with his button and then with the zipper. He nearly fell over as he pulled his jean pants down and stepped out of them. Shame washed over his body as he felt the stares of Lindsey as he stood in the cold bathroom shivering in his naked form. He attempted to cover his privates with his hands and arms as he stood awaiting his next command. Lindsey left the toilet and proceeded to turn on the shower. When he felt the temperature was satisfactory, he motioned for Spike to step in. As the water hit the blond vampire, he could not help but revel in the feeling of fresh water. He quickly but shakily reached for the soap and began to wash his form. Lindsey continued his observation of him. The curtain was purposefully left open by the lawyer.
Spike tried to ignore the presence of the other man, but it was too hard. The water falling over him hid the tears pouring out of his eyes. He reached for the shampoo and attempted to tame the unruly curls that had formed during his captivity.
After ten minutes, Lindsey turned the shower off and silently handed Spike a towel. He quickly dried himself off and turned to Lindsey. Spike kept his head lowered. He realized that he was trapped and there was nothing he could do anymore. No one was coming for him.
He followed Lindsey back to the room. Lindsey motioned for him to sit on the bed. Fear gripped Spike; but he did as he was told. He sat on the bed with his knees to his chest and his head resting on his knees. His body was turned away.
"If you promise to be good, I won't chain you back up." Lindsey said in a low voice. "You appear to be healing somewhat since drinking the blood. I have a few things to take care of. You may sleep on the bed if you'd like." And with that statement, he left the room.
*
Spike managed to take a catnap but immediately awoke when he heard Lindsey return. A few hours may have passed; but, he was not sure.
"Sleep well, honey?" Lindsey's speech was slurred as he walked slowly to the bed. Spike scooted as far against the headboard as possible. He noticed that Lindsey's shirt was open and he reeked of alcohol; he held a bottle of liquor in his right hand. Spike started panting and looking for an escape. There was only one way out and Lindsey had the key. Lindsey plopped down on the chair and laughed. He took a swig of alcohol and then placed the bottle down near the chair. He eyed Spike with the look of a predator. "Come here." He said in a low voice. Spike did not move from his position. "NOW!" He yelled. The blond vampire scampered off the bed and kneeled in front of him. Spike kept his head bowed as he could smell Lindsey's arousal building. "Take me out." He commanded.
Thin, pale hands shakily inched towards Lindsey's crotch. Spike could see the bulge that was begging to be released. As he unzipped his pants and reached in to free Lindsey's erection, he heard the lawyer hiss in relief. "That's it. Now, let me fuck your mouth." Spike leaned in to take Lindsey into his mouth. A tear slipped out of Spike's cerulean eyes.
"Yessss...." Lindsey moaned as Spike licked and sucked at his manhood. "Sooo good!" Lindsey started moving his hips faster so Spike had to accommodate more of him in his mouth. Spike practically gagged as Lindsey's shaft hit the back of his throat. Luckily, he didn't last long and suddenly, Spike felt warm seed shoot down his throat. He was immediately pushed away towards the floor by Lindsey.
"Wow, pretty good." Lindsey said as he leaned back in the chair. He felt dizzy as he panted. "I guess that's why Angel ran with you for twenty years, huh?" He chuckled. "Have to be good at something."
Spike sat naked on the floor with his head bowed. He slowly tried to dissociate himself from the situation. He slowly retreated inside himself.
"Are you listening to me, you little bastard?!" Lindsey hauled him to his feet. "I said get on the bed! I'm not through with your pretty little ass!" Lindsey threw Spike onto the bed face down. He handcuffed his wrists to the bedposts. He whimpered as the tears flowed down again.
He felt Lindsey climb onto the bed and position himself behind him. He grew sick as hands traveled up and down his body.
"Please, don't!" Spike begged as his face was pressed hard against the comforter. Spike attempted to pull at his binds but to no avail. He twisted his body but came into contact with Lindsey. The chip fired and Spike's scream filled the room. Lindsey sat above him laughing. Suddenly, warm hands opened his cheeks as Spike sobbed loudly as he became hysterical. "Sire...Giles...please...help me..." he whispered to himself over and over again.
With no preparation, Lindsey thrust into Spike's tight channel. Spike hollered as he felt he was split in two. Lindsey was lost in the sensation as he made unintelligible noises. The lawyer continued to brutally invade Spike as the movements became more fluid as blood served as a lubricant. As Lindsey neared his climax , he sped up. Suddenly he stopped as he reached nirvana. "AAANGELLL!!!!!!" he yelled as his seed poured into Spike below him. He became disoriented and collapsed beside Spike.
*
The group sat in the lobby completely silent. Tears poured from Willow's eyes as she bowed her head. "I-I can't see anything." She said quietly as Cordelia placed her arms around her newfound friend.
Angel sat at the couch with his head in his hands. His demon was rattling in its cage. He has tried to be calm and rational to this point. Now, he just wanted to kill. The tension in the room was palpable.
Suddenly, the lobby doors opened. "Hello, good friends and all!" Lorne said cheerfully. He stopped at the top step as the somber nature of the room hit him like a mack truck. "Whoa! Don't like the vibes in here kids." He sauntered over to Angel and sat down. "What's wrong, Angelcakes?" All he received from the dark vampire was a growl.
Wesley stepped in. "We have a rather grave situation here, Lorne." The Ex-Watcher turned to his former colleague and the red headed witch. "Lorne, I would like to introduce Rupert Giles and Willow Rosenberg. They hail from Sunnydale. This is Krevlornswath of the Deathwok Clan; in this dimension he is known as Lorne or the Host . He is an empath demon."
Lorne extended his hands to both. "Pleased to meet you. So, the Hellmouth? Hope you find Hell-A a bit more fun! So, what's the sitch, friends? Anything I can help with? You have always helped me out."
Wesley added. "Perhaps you could read Angel."
"NOOOO!" Cordelia and Gunn shouted in unison. Wesley glared at them. Angel did not even seem to notice the mini-protest.
"This could potentially provide a clue to Spike's location." He walked over to Angel and spoke quietly to the increasingly agitated vampire. "Angel, sing a bit for Lorne. It may help us find Spike."
The dark vampire looked up and nodded his head as he cleared his throat.. He stood and Cordelia and Gunn prepared to cover their ears. "You are the wind beneath my wings..."
"Always did like the ballads..." Lorne muttered under his breath as he motioned for Angel to stop with the song.
"What did you see?" Angel asked forcefully.
"Sticky situation, oh Broody One."
"Did you see where he is?"
"I don't receive that kind of information. All I can tell you is that, the answer may lie with the Oracles."
Angel and Wesley looked at each other. The dark vampire spoke. "The Oracles were destroyed; they were murdered by Voka."
"Yes, they were". The green demon concurred. "But, do you think the Powers are not capable of filling the void? Seek them out. They may be able to help you. Well, will you look at the time...I've got to go open the club." The tall demon began to walk towards the exit.
"Hey, Lorne!" Gunn called out after him. "Did you need help with somethin'. Why did you come?"
"Huh, you know? I forgot. Anyway, toodles, my campadres!" The green demon departed with a smile.
Angel immediately walked to his room. He returned with a box and his coat. He looked at Gunn and Wesley and the other two followed him out the door.
*
"What is this place, man? Looks like some sort of temple." Gunn said as he observed the gray stone walls.
"Do you recall the ritual, Angel?" Wesley added.
"It's right here." He said sadly as he glanced at the paper. The handwriting was in Doyle's script. Wesley sympathetically smiled at the dark vampire as Angel started chanting.
Angel clutched the box to use as an offering and began. "**We beseech access to the knowing ones...we are made to survive.**" Angel lights the caldron.
Suddenly he finds himself inside the temple staring at a man and a woman dressed in white with ornate silver drawings on the skin.
The woman spoke first. Her strong voice echoing throughout the temple. "Come before us lower being. And you have brought an offering." She looked at Angel directly as he extended his gift to her. "I have heard of you; the souled vampire; a champion; what you seek we cannot provide."
"I haven't asked yet."
The male figure spoke next. "We know what you seek...we cannot be bothered with the insignificant travails of vampires; especially those who are evil."
"Spike has changed. He is fighting on the Hellmouth on the side of good!" Angel pleaded.
"He has no soul; he cannot be trusted."
"You're wrong. Please." Angel's eyes filled with tears. "He is my Childe. He is suffering."
The male figure raised his voice. "Is this any different than the suffering he has caused?"
"I am no different than him. Yet, you now call me a champion." Angel walked closer. "I fight for my redemption. He could too."
"ENOUGH!" The two spoke together. "We will ponder your plea. You are dismissed."
Suddenly, Angel was thrown out the entrance and landed in front of Gunn and Wesley. The two helped pick their friend up. The look on Angel's face conveyed all the information they needed. They walked silently back to the car and drove to the hotel.
*
Cordelia, Willow, and Giles sat in the lobby awaiting their return. The three men entered the lobby. Cordelia walked up to them and was going to ask a question when she screamed as she fell to the ground. Angel caught her before she kissed the lobby floor. He cradled her in his lap as the pain of the vision subsided. Tears poured out of her eyes as she sobbed. The pain of the visions were steadily worsening. Wesley walked up to her with a pad and pencil to take down the pertinent information to their new case.
Cordelia wiped her eyes and looked up at her friend. She quietly said through the tears, "I know where Spike is."
~Part: 12~
Angel stood from the floor and lifted a sobbing Cordelia into his arms. He placed her gently on the large, plush sofa. He turned to Gunn as the demon hunter handed him two aspirin and a glass of water.
"Here, Cordy." Angel said gently as he helped her take the medication. "The pain should go away soon." The dark vampire had a million questions to ask her, but he realized he needed to allow some recovery time. His undead heart fluttered with joy knowing that they could soon rescue Spike.
The Seer's cries subsided after a few minutes. She looked at her friend as she recalled the images tumbling around in her brain. "He's in the mountains...some sort of cabin...1-3-5-4-3 Orchard Drive..." Cordelia said slowly as she closed her eyes. Fresh tears poured from them. She looked up at Angel with wide eyes. "Angel, I could feel his pain." She said sobbing as she buried her head in Angel's shoulder. "He's lost all hope. I'm not sure how much longer he can last."
Angel looked at the team as he stood. "We need to find out where this house is."
Willow spoke. "Do you have a computer? I can do a quick search that will give us directions."
"This way, Willow." Wesley directed her towards their PC.
Angel turned to Gunn. "Let's get weapons. I'm not sure if we're only dealing with humans, demons, or both."
"We'll be prepared." Gunn answered as he went to the weapons cabinet.
"I will go this time, Angel." Giles spoke firmly as he placed his jacket on. Angel acquiesced. He could sense the fatherly feelings Giles held towards his Childe. As much as Angel did not want to admit it to himself, Giles had been more of a support to Spike than he had.
Willow had her resolve face on. "Angel. I want to come. You may need magic to help him." The dark vampire nodded. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Cordelia placing her jacket on. He smiled at her strength. The six left the hotel in two cars. They sped off into the night towards the mountains.
*
Lindsey sat up quickly with a gasp. It was then he realized that he was on the floor. He trembled as he attempted to stand. He used the wall to climb upright. He groaned as he felt his head spin. His pupils slowly adjusted to the light as he gazed down. His eyes were wide in shock as looked down at the bloodied, naked, unconscious vampire. He searched his brain as his memory returned. He ran over to the corner of the room and fell to his knees as he violently regurgitated the contents he had ingested. Tears fell from his eyes as he looked back at the figure chained to wall. There was blood everywhere: on the floor, the bed, and on his shirt that lay crumpled on the side of the bed. Lindsey quickly left the room and went to the bathroom. He tumbled toward the basin gasping. He looked down at his shaking hands; they were covered with blood and his knuckles were cut. He scrubbed his hands with soap and then desperately threw ice cold water over his face. As he vigorously wiped his visage, he looked into the mirror. He slowly lowered the towel as he stared as his drawn face. He barely recognized the man that had come to Los Angeles three years ago.
'What have I done?' He thought.
*
As the crew neared the cabin, Angel began gripping the steering wheel tighter. Every so often, Cordelia glanced over to him. She was fearful of Angel's ability to control himself. As they arrived, Wesley and Angel turned off their headlights and pulled off the road prior to the driveway. They mobilized behind Angel's car to secure their weapons. Angel began feeling the pull of his Childe as they neared the cabin. There was so much pain. His demon wanted to come to the forefront.
Suddenly, Angel stopped. He turned to the group. Despite the darkness, they could see Angel's yellow eyes. "If Lindsey has hurt Spike, I will not hesitate to kill him." He said menacingly. His words sent shivers down the spines of the humans. He turned to walk again.
*
Lindsey practically ran from the bathroom. He felt claustrophobic and needed some air. He turned the porch light on and went outside. The nighttime cool air rushed over him and provided some relief. He was still getting his bearings when he heard a noise. His heart started beating quickly as he tried to make out what the noise was. Suddenly, a figure swooped onto the porch and lifted him from the stoop.
"Lindsey!" Angel hissed in gameface as he held the lawyer three feet off the ground by the neck. "Find Spike!" He commanded to his friends as Willow, Wesley, Cordelia and Gunn sprinted into the house to search for the blond vampire.
Lindsey struggled and gasped for breath as his legs swung frantically. His face began changing hue as he struggled less.
"Angel!" Giles yelled from behind him. "We need to find Spike!"
Angel was panting as his teeth were clenched as he attempted to choke the life out of lawyer. Suddenly, he dropped Lindsey to the ground. Giles gingerly walked up to the seething vampire and placed his hand on his back. "Go on. I'll watch him." Giles said quietly as he pointed a gun at the lawyer.
Angel stopped at the door. He looked to Giles with pleading eyes. The Ex-Watcher bent down towards Lindsey who lay on the ground clutching his neck and wheezing for breath. Giles placed the gun at Lindsey's temple. "Invite him in, now." Giles commanded, channeling a bit of the Ripper.
Lindsey gasped and conceded defeat. "Come...((cough))...((cough))...in."
Angel frantically ran into the house and was immediately bombarded with scent of his Childe, his blood, and death. He saw his friends congregating outside of the back room. Wesley was shaking his head while Willow cried. Cordelia looked at her friend and with sad eyes said, "Angel..." The dark vampire pushed passed them all and stopped as he saw the tiny, naked, bloodied body of his Childe bound by his wrists. He screamed as he fell to his knees in front of the seemingly lifeless body. He ripped the chains from the wall and gathered Spike into arms. He was still in gameface as blood tears poured from his eyes as he rocked his Childe back and forth while stroking his bloodied hair.
Gunn, Wesley, Willow and Cordelia slowly backed away from the room to give Angel some time alone. They joined Giles on the porch. Lindsey lay on the ground still gasping. Gunn gently placed his hand on Giles' shoulder and motioned with his head towards the back room. Giles nodded his head and handed the gun over to him. As Giles saw Willow crying , his heart feared what he was about to witness. He followed the cries of Angel and his eyes widened when he saw the limp body of Spike in Angel's arms. He removed his glasses as his eyes watered. He bowed his head as a lone tear traveled down his cheek.
Angel roughly bit into his wrist and placed it at Spike's mouth. "Come on, Will. Drink for Sire, now." There was no response from the blond vampire. "Come on, boy! Drink!" Angel commanded hoping his 'Sire voice' would make Spike obey. Desperation filled the dark vampire's voice. "Please, Will." He whispered as he sobbed into Spike's neck. "Please!"
From behind him, Giles spoke. "Angel, let us leave." After a few minutes, Angel carefully carried Spike out the back entrance towards his friends. Gunn still had the pistol pointed at the lawyer. The vampire hunter looked directly at Angel awaiting instructions on how to deal with Lindsey.
Angel walked over to Wesley. "Please take Spike to the car for me." He transferred his unconscious Childe over to the Ex-Watcher. Angel looked intently at his friends and they knew to walk directly to the car. Giles hung back and waited on the grass about ten feet away.
Angel sighed as he looked down. His eyes closed; he slowly opened them. Lindsey attempted to move back when he saw yellow eyes staring menacingly at him. His fear set in as he saw Angel smirk. "Now that the humans have left, we can have some fun. What should we do with you, boyo?" The dark vampire walked back and forth like a predator sizing up their prey. "You tortured my Most Favored Childe, my William; you touched what is mine and mine alone. For that, you deserve death. It wouldn't be quick, though. I could keep you alive for a very long time." He crouched next to the terrified lawyer. "What would Angel do, huh?" The dark vampire laughed. "The Souled loser would probably give you a slap on the wrist and tell you not to do it again, or else! Am I right?" He laughed again. The smile faded from his face. "Maybe that's why he let me out to play for a bit. I believe you wanted to meet me?" Angelus lifted Lindsey and punched him with such force that he flew about twenty feet and landed against the side of the cabin. The brunette lawyer struggled to get up as the wind was knocked out of him. He lay bleeding and gasping for air. Angelus walked slowly towards Lindsey.
"Just k-kill m-me..." Lindsey gasped.
"Well, it's no fun if you ask for it!" Angelus replied as he stood over the lawyer.
"I'm sorry!" Tears poured out of Lindsey's eyes.
"You're sorry?" He laughed. "Well, then that makes it all better!" Angelus said sarcastically. He lost his sense of humor quickly as he sank down to Lindsey's level. "I'm not the Souled One; sorry won't work with me." His voice was low but forceful. Angelus closed his eyes for a moment. He shook slightly. "I have to go tend to my Childe. I won't kill you yet, Lindsey. That's too easy. If I were you, I'd run. Because one of these days, I will find you. For your sake, you better be six feet under by the time we see each other again. And don't think you'll be safe if Angel is in the driving seat." He smirked again. "See, even he has a breaking point. You lawyer idiots have no idea who you are dealing with." He glared at the frightened lawyer.
"Well," Angelus said cheerfully. "I hate to eat and run; but..." He grabbed Lindsey quickly and sunk his fangs into the lawyer's neck. Lindsey screamed as he felt his blood leaving his body. Angelus did not fully drain him. He took enough to incapacitate him for some time. He threw him again as he licked his lips. He smirked at Giles before closing his eyes. After a minute, they opened. Angel turned to his right to see the unconscious but breathing body of Lindsey and walked down the porch steps towards Giles. The two walked silently to the car.
~Part: 13~
The two cars arrived back at the hotel a few hours before sunrise. Angel gingerly carried Spike into the lobby. Before ascending the staircase, he turned to his friends. "We will need a lot of human blood." He smiled sadly. "Thanks, guys." He said as he gazed down at his boy. He looked at Giles and the Ex-Watcher proceeded to follow him up the stairs and into Angel's suite.
"I have supplies in my closet, Giles. I need to look him over before placing him into the bath. Could you start the water, please?" Angel spoke calmly but with an underlying tension.
"Of course." Giles quickly went into the bathroom.
Angel lay the unconscious Spike down on the floor for a moment. He spread a few blankets on the couch and then placed Spike on top of it. Angel's chocolate brown eyes surveyed Spike's naked body. He was riddled with new and old bruises and some fresh cuts. The dark vampire nearly wretched at the site. He could easily count all of Spike's ribs. His cheekbones were greatly accentuated by the lack of blood Spike obviously endured. Angel bowed his head and closed his eyes for a moment. He could not allow his emotions to overwhelm him. His boy needed him.
When they arrived in the bathroom, Giles was ready with soap and towels. After Spike was placed in the warm water, Giles supported his weight, while Angel proceeded to wash. They had to change the bathwater three times before ridding Spike of all the blood. He appeared clean, but the bruising on his body was still significant.
Angel carried Spike and placed him on the bed. He then placed antibiotic cream on Spike; he began with Spike's beautiful but sunken face. Angel methodically started at the top and worked his way down. He could still smell Spike's blood. There were a few cuts that still oozed. Angel looked up at Giles.
"There are a few things that I need to do now, Giles. I appreciate your help; but, would you mind leaving for now?"
Giles nodded his head and departed. Angel started licking the open cuts on Spike's face, trunk, and extremities. As his saliva touched the wounds, they began to close. As he finished the wound on Spike's right ankle, Angel could still smell blood. He lifted the blond vampire's legs and noticed a red spot on the towel. Angel's anger was building as he noticed the torn anus of his Childe.
"God, Will!" He said as stroked his face. "I am so sorry! I will never let anyone hurt you ever again!" Tears ran down Angel's face as his guilt began to overwhelm him. He felt responsible for Spike's situation. He only hoped that his Childe could forgive him.
He mended the area and then ensured Spike was dry and then placed him in a pair of gray sweats. They were too big for Spike's malnourished body; but for now it would be adequate.
Angel sat on the bed with his back against the headboard. He propped Spike up against him. He bit into his wrist and placed it over Spike's mouth. There was still no response. Angel then bit his finger and placed the bleeding digit in his Childe's mouth. After some time, Angel began to feel some small suction from Spike.
"That's it, Will!" Angel encouraged him. The dark vampire then reopened his wrist and placed it in Spike's mouth. Although still unconscious, Spike's vampire instincts prevailed as he slowly but steadily drank from his Sire. Angel closed his eyes as he allowed himself to revel in the joy of sharing one's blood with their Childer. It had been too long.
Spike's feeding slowly died down until he once again lay motionless in Angel's arms. Angel stood from the bed as he gingerly lay Spike's head onto a pillow. He walked over to the kitchenette and warmed some blood up to replenish his own supply. He sipped the awful tasting animal blood as he watched his comatose Childe. Angel vowed to help Spike deal with his trauma when he awoke.
He turned to the sink to rinse his mug; Angel pulled the curtains tight to ensure no sunlight could peek through the windows come dawn. He changed into pajama bottoms and a t-shirt and slipped into bed behind his Childe. He grasped Spike's too thin waste and carefully pulled him into his chest. Angel fell into a light sleep.
*
In the late morning, Angel carefully extracted himself from Spike's resting body. The dark vampire surveyed his body once again. He was pleased to see Spike's bruises faded a bit overnight. Angel took a quick shower and changed his clothes. He placed a chaste kiss on his Childe's forehead and went to meet his friends downstairs.
As Angel walked towards the lobby desk, his friends turned to him.
"How is he Angel?" Cordelia asked with genuine concern.
"Still unconscious; he does look better though." Angel attempted to half smile. He still felt sick form the realization that Spike had been raped but he did not want the others to be privy to that information.
"Did you get him to feed, Angel?" Giles asked and was pleased when Angel nodded his head.
The others wanted to ask Angel about Lindsey but they hesitated. They agreed that he would tell them in due time. They knew that Wolfram and Hart was responsible for what happened to Spike; but, was it over? Were there other plans? No one verbalized their worries; but, tension hung in the air.
*
Spike's eyes slowly flickered open. He found himself in a large bed. For a moment, he felt comforted and safe. Soon, though, he realized he did not recognize his surroundings. He bolted upright in a full panic. 'Not again' he thought through his muddled brain. 'No,no,no...' he screamed inside his head. He tumbled out of the bed onto the floor. He forced himself onto shaky legs to find a way out. He tripped over the long sweatpants that he wore. As he looked up, he saw an open door. He scrambled towards the exit. He took unnecessary breaths as he leaned against the hall wall to gather his strength. 'Must get out' was the mantra circling through his head. He saw a stairway and ran for it. He kept a tight grip on the railing as he unsteadily navigated the long way down. He walked towards the light at the bottom of the stairs.
He ran into the lobby and panicked when he saw figures he did not recognize He screamed as he noted their heartbeats. He slowly backed up as his wild eyes looked for another route. Suddenly he felt as though he was trapped as his back hit the wall. He slowly slid to the floor and curled into the fetal position and rocked back and forth mumbling.
"Oh my, God...Angel!" Cordelia shouted to the kitchen as she, Wesley, and Gunn witnessed the descent of Spike. Their eyes were wide as they watched the cowering vampire in the corner.
Angel, Giles, and Willow rushed through the kitchen door and gasped as they saw Spike. Angel rushed over to his Childe but did not touch him. He was not sure how he would react.
"Please, no!" Spike whimpered as he brought his hands over his face to shield him from the inevitable torture to follow. His voice was dry and cracked from misuse.
"Spike?" Angel said calmly as he slowly inched his way forward. "William? It's me, Sire."
Spike vigorously shook his head. "No, it's not Sire...it's NEVER Sire!"
Tears filled Angel's chocolate orbs. "It is Will. Look." Angel attempted to move Spike's hands away from his face but Spike flinched and moved away.
"No...no...no...not real...never real! Never comes for me...never comes for me..." Spike whispered the last part as he trembled. "'S a trick it is...a trick." Spike mumbled under his breath as a tear rolled down his cheek.
"Will, please." Angel pleaded with his Childe. "I am real." He tried to convince him. "I'm touching you." Angel gingerly reached out and grasped Spike's hand momentarily. "See, Childe. I am here. You're safe now." For a moment Spike's crystal blue eyes seemed to clear from the fog as he looked into his Sire's eyes. Angel continued. "Giles is here, Will." He said quietly as Giles kneeled next to the dark vampire. They waited for Spike to comprehend himself. They did not want to make any sudden moves.
As if seeing the conflict in his eyes. Angel continued to reassure the frightened vampire. "No one will hurt you here."
Giles interjected. "We are happy to see you, Spike." Recognition flickered through Spike as he became more calm and tilted his head. His trembling lessened as he looked around.
In a small voice, Spike said, "Giles?" The Ex-Watcher smiled. Spike's head turned. "S-Sire?" He said wishfully as his eyes watered. He reached out with a quivering hand as he touched Angel's arm.
Angel released a large sigh of relief as he felt the light touch on his arm. "Yes, Will. It's me." Angel took a chance and leaned forward to embrace his now sobbing Childe. He was pleased that Spike relaxed in his arms. He gently stroked Spike's hair as he whispered. "Ssh...it's okay. I've got you. Everything will be okay, now."
~Part: 14~
Spike sat on the couch in Angel's room after the dark vampire was able to calm him down in the lobby. The blond vampire sat stone-faced, curled into a small ball and staring ahead. He did not seem focused on anything. Angel stood with his arms crossed across the room at a loss of what to say.
Spike began to speak. His tone was monotone, void of any emotion. "Where am I?" His eyes were fixed on the opposite wall.
"Los Angeles." Angel answered. "You are in my home...my room."
"How did I get here?" Again his voice was quiet.
Angel hesitated. "Lin-...They brought you to LA..." Silence befell the room again.
"Spike?" The blond vampire did not reply. "Are you hungry?" The dark vampire stood and as he walked over to his Childe, he rolled up his sleeve . He bit into his wrist and sat down near Spike. He brought the wrist up to Spike's mouth. Spike's eyes were wide with panic and he scrambled away from Angel to the other end of the couch. He panted as he held his knees tight to his chest. He buried his head on his knees.
Angel stood back stunned. He could feel fear rolling off his Childe in waves. "It's alright." He held his hands up. "You're safe here, Will." Angel walked towards the door. "I'll get you some blood in a mug, okay?" He tried to smile and quickly left the room.
*
Angel stood in front of the microwave awaiting the blood to warm. His arms were on the counter top and he leaned forward with his head dropped. He did not notice Giles walking into the kitchen.
"Angel?" Giles asked as he noticed the demeanor of the dark vampire.
Angel turned to him and the Ex-Watcher noticed the despair on his face.
"Is Spike, alright?" Giles voice was concerned.
"I don't know. I offered to feed him and he got so scared when I nearly touched him." Angel closed his eyes and balled his hands into fists. When he opened his eyes, they flickered yellow. "Those stupid fuckers!" Angel seethed. "How could they do this? I should kill every last one of them!" Angel raged. He felt Angelus again clamoring in his mind.
Giles placed a calming hand on his shoulder. "I know you are upset; we all are. But, we need to show some restraint in order to help him." He paused. "Let me take this to him." Giles said as he opened the microwave door and picked up the mug. He smiled as Angel nodded to him. "I will return momentarily." With a nod, Giles exited the kitchen and ascended the grand staircase. He took slow steps as traveled towards Angel's room. He knocked lightly and opened the door. He spanned the spacious room, but initially did not see the blond vampire. As he turned his head towards the back of the room, he noticed Spike huddled in the corner near the bed. He walked over to him and placed the mug on top of the mahogany nightstand.
"Spike? I brought you something to eat." He spoke in a conversational tone of voice. "98.6 degrees. Just how you like it." Giles smiled as he kneel in front of him; there was some distance between the two. He wanted Spike to come around in his own time; in the least traumatic way possible. He waited for some time and slowly Spike's eyes fluttered and he turned his head. He was staring at Giles. His lifeless blue eyes seemed to water.
His voice croaked. "Rupert." His body relaxed a bit after he spoke.
"Hello." Giles nodded. He frowned when he noticed Spike become distressed. Spike looked around the room; his eyes were wild. "It is alright, Spike. Really."
Spike panted as he willed himself to calm. He whispered something that Giles strained to hear.
"I could not hear you Spike." He answered while moving closer.
"This isn't home." He said with some fear and sadness.
"No, it is not." Giles replied.
"I wanna go home." He whispered, his voice shaky as he turned to look at Giles. The Ex-Watcher was astonished at the innocence he saw in those bright blue eyes. Under the influence of a large amount of alcohol, Spike once revealed he was turned when he was twenty years of age. A man back in Victorian times; but today, still practically a child. As Giles looked upon his friend's pleading eyes, all he could see was a boy named William needing help.
"Of course." Giles responded as he stood. He held his hand out and helped an unsteady Spike to his feet. He gently maneuvered him to the couch and helped him sit. He walked over to retrieve the blood and then took the place beside The quiet vampire. He aided Spike's grasp on the mug; Spike's hands shook as they guided the mug to his lips. He took a few sips.
"That's right. Take it slowly." Giles said. Spike handed the mug back to Giles. His eyes looked weary and it appeared he needed to rest. Giles lay Spike down on the couch and placed a blanket over him. He touched Spike's shoulder lightly. "We shall depart at sundown." He smiled as he adjusted the blanket. With that, he left the room.
Willow was exiting her room at the same time as Giles walked down the hallway.
"How is he Giles?" The red head was concerned.
"Not very well; although he is conversing. He wants to go back to Sunnydale. We should leave tonight." He thought for a moment. "Willow, could you call Xander and ask him to obtain some human blood? He has done it before, so please tell him not to argue."
"Sure thing." Willow smiled. "Does Angel know we're leaving?" She asked.
"No, I am going to talk to him now."
*
"Absolutely not!" Angel yelled as he stood from the chair in the lobby. All conversation stopped as his friends heard him from their offices.
Wesley walked out of his office. "Whatever is the matter, Angel?" The Ex-Watcher was confused as Angel paced in front of the counter. "Mr. Giles?"
"I have informed Angel, that we will be returning to Sunnydale tonight. With Spike."
"We can protect him here, Giles." Angel reasoned.
"It was his wish. He does not feel safe in the town where he was brutally tortured. He is frightened and hurt and wishes to return to more familiar surroundings."
Cordelia spoke. "Maybe it's for the best for now, Angel. You said he was freaked out when you tried to feed him. He may need some distance from LA." The Seer placed her hand on his arm.
Angel's undead heart was breaking. He just got his Childe back. He wanted the opportunity to make amends to the most important person in his unlife. But, he knew how afraid Will was of him. "They found him in Sunnydale. What makes you think they won't try again?"
"Tara and I can use a protection spell." Willow said as she returned to the lobby.
Giles sighed. "Angel I know this is hard for you. But, we must do what is best for Spike."
Angel sat heavily on the couch. His friends gathered around him in a show of support. The dark vampire simply nodded at Giles. He knew the choice was not his. His Childe was hurt because of him. The enormity of this hit him hard. There was so much he wanted to say to Will; things he wanted to do for him. But, he was powerless right now. He needed to give his Childe space and time. He looked up and smiled sadly at Giles and stood. He cleared his throat. "If you need anything...please call me. I'll check up on him time and again."
Giles returned the smile. "Of course, Angel. I think that would be most welcome. Give him time. He is strong. He will recover." He turned to red headed witch. "Willow, let us gather our belongings." He looked at his watch. "It is nearly sundown." Giles returned his gaze to the Fang Gang. "Thank you all for help. We could not have done this without you." With a nod, the Sunnydale residents departed the lobby.
*
Willow and Giles stood in Angel's room. They gingerly coaxed the sleeping vampire awake. Spike looked a bit confused initially, but calmed as he saw Willow and Giles. They helped him stand and gave him some blood. After he had his fill, they wrapped a blanket around his shoulders. They each grasped an arm and began the slow journey downstairs. Spike was still unsteady on his feet, but with the support of his friends, he did not fall. They reached the bottom of the stairs. Cordelia and Angel stood in the middle of the lobby. Wesley and Gunn walked through the front door and joined their friends. "All packed up, Giles." Gunn said with a smile.
"Thank you." He looked at his two companions and said, "Shall we?" He began to walk but initially Spike did not take a step.
The blond vampire turned to the Fang Gang. In a tone devoid of a cockney accent and sarcasm, Spike spoke quietly. "Thank you very much." His voice cracked as his eyes watered. He wanted to speak more, but it was too painful. As he slowly began to turn, his eyes locked on the brown eyes of his Sire. This lasted but a moment. Spike looked down and proceeded to be led from the building. Willow helped the frail, malnourished vampire into the back seat of Giles' car. She climbed in beside him. It was a tight fit, but Willow encouraged Spike to lay on his side. She placed his head on her lap and gently stroked his now two tone, curly hair. Giles started the car and the three began the journey back to Sunnydale.
~Part: 15~
Buffy, Anya, Tara and Xander sat in the Ex-Watcher's living room laughing and eating pizza.
"Where's Riley, Buff?" Xander asked as he stuffed his face. He reached up wipe the large dollop of tomato sauce sliding down his face.
"Xander, sometimes you are so gross." Anya interjected as she grimaced at the site of her boyfriend.
Buffy chuckled. "Riley is grading papers. I'll see him later for patrol."
Xander stood. "I should have ordered more drinks." He said as he spanned the room and saw empty cans. "I hope G-Man has some soda; I'm so thirsty!" The brunette bounced towards the kitchen and opened the refrigerator. "Jeez!" He exclaimed. "I can't even find anything to drink with all the blood here for Spike. Are you sure there aren't any more out there?" Xander said as he exited the kitchen.
The door to the apartment opened and the girls immediately stopped their chatter as their gaze fell upon Willow, Giles, and the frail, thin appearing Spike wrapped in a blanket between them. His weight was supported by the two. They were astonished at the lifeless appearance of the usually animated vampire. He seemed quite thin and even more pale than usual. He had some bruising to his face and his normally bright eyes were dull. His normally slicked back, shockingly platinum hair was now two tone of brown and blond in a disarray of curls.
Giles looked at the group and sadly smiled as he saw the concerned faces of them all. He nodded and turned to walk towards the right. There was a very small guest room situated behind the kitchen. Willow and he gently turned Spike and started walking towards there.
"Hello! Did you guys hear me?" Xander yelled as he exited the kitchen and nearly ran into the Giles. Xander looked at the blond vampire with wide eyes and stumbled back in surprise. He watched silently as they lead Spike into the bedroom and closed the door.
Xander went back to the girls in the sitting room. No one spoke a word as they all placed their food down as if they lost their appetite. Willow was the first to emerge from the back. She immediately went to Tara and heavily sat next to her. She leaned into Tara's embrace as the blond witch noticed her eyes watering. Tara gently stroked Willow's shoulder length auburn colored hair as she caressed her arm.
Buffy looked at her friend. "Will..." She felt at a loss for words.
Willow looked directly at the Slayer and quietly spoke. "Please...not now, Buffy." She closed her eyes again and concentrated on the calming touch of her girlfriend.
*
Giles turned down the comforter and helped the exhausted vampire lay down. He pulled the warm blanket over Spike and said quietly. "You are home, Spike. No need to worry." He was going to ask if he wanted blood, but Spike immediately fell asleep. Giles looked down on him once more and then softly shut the door behind him.
Silence had befallen the room once again as Giles emerged. He looked at all the children sitting there. He felt sadness at the loss of innocence they had all endured whilst living on the Hellmouth. He sighed. He knew they would ask for an explanation on Spike's condition. He was too mentally and physically exhausted at this point to even start.
He began speaking. "Tomorrow, I will speak to you all at the Shop. Willow, Tara. We can review the Protection Spell." Tara looked at Willow with a confused expression. Willow smiled and Tara understood she would explain later.
With a nod, Giles began the journey up to his bedroom. The Scoobies quickly gathered their belongings and headed home.
*
Giles weary eyes flew open the next morning when he heard a scream in the apartment. He ran down the stairs into Spike's room and found him thrashing about. "Spike!" Giles said as he attempted to restrain the vampire.
Spike sat up and his eyes were wild. "Wha...?" He looked around and saw Giles in front of him. He panted as he willed his breathing to slow down. He backed up a bit from Giles as he noticed his surroundings. He sniffed the air and immediately calmed. The space smelled of Giles. "Sorry." The blond vampire whispered as he looked down embarrassed.
"No need, Spike." Giles looked around. "Why don't we get some blood in you. You need to feed. Alright?"
Spike nodded as he allowed Giles to help him up. They slowly emerged from the tiny bedroom and into the sitting area. Spike crashed down onto the plush green couch. He reveled at the familiarity of this place. It made him feel a bit better.
Giles went into the kitchen and warmed up a mug of blood. He sat down on the coffee table and handed it to Spike. The malnourished vampire sipped at first. He then realized it was human and quickly finished the contents. It had been some time since he enjoyed human blood. "Ta." He said as he handed the object back to Giles.
"Would you like some more?" Giles asked. Spike shook his head no. The Ex-Watcher aided Spike and lay him down on the couch. Spike closed his eyes for a moment. Giles stood to return the kitchen. He jumped when he felt a cool hand grab his wrist. He saw Spike looking up at him with tearing eyes. The blond vampire wanted to speak but he found it difficult to form the words to convey his appreciation. But, Giles knew and he understood.
"I know, Spike. I know." Giles patted his shoulder and proceeded to the kitchen to rinse the mug. "We should try to get you into a bath later as well." He said as he wiped his hands and returned to Spike's side. Spike nodded but at the present moment, he looked too exhausted to get up.
"Spike, I do need to go to the Magic Box today to take of a few affairs. Willow and Tara are going to work on a Protection Spell." At the mention of this, Spike's eyes momentarily were wide with fear.
"It is simply a precaution, Spike. We will not likely need it, but..." Giles looked down for a moment and then continued. He picked up an object and moved it closer. "Here is the remote to the telly. Maybe one day you could convince me to get that blasted cable television you are always clamoring about." He grinned when he saw Spike slightly smile at his attempt at light humor. "I am going to shower and leave so I can be back soon. I'll keep some blood next to you. Alright?" Spike nodded his head and quickly fell asleep again. For the first time in awhile, he felt safe.
*
Giles stood behind the register looking through the files that Anya had kept in his absence. He had to admit that the Ex-Demon kept meticulous records and had managed to continue to turn a profit. The door to the Shop rang as the Scoobies filed through. They spoke quietly as they walked towards their meeting table. They waited for Giles to sit down before asking questions. The Ex-Watcher began after clearing his throat. "Spike was in Los Angeles. With the aide of Angel and his co-workers, we were able to locate him." At the mention of Angel, Buffy sat up straight.
"Did Spike do something to Angel?" The Slayer asked suspiciously.
"No, Buffy, he did not. Although, Angel was involved." Giles responded.
"I knew it! Angel should of just killed Spike!" Buffy's nostrils flared with anger and hatred for the blond vampire.
"For heaven's sake, Buffy! Will you please listen?" Giles' voice rose as he yelled at his charge. The whole group sat back in surprise at the anger in Giles' voice. He sighed. "If you cannot be patient to hear the entire story, then please leave." He answered coldly.
"Sorry." She said as she lowered her eyes.
Giles turned his body more to Willow, Tara, and Anya to address them. He knew Xander was in the similar camp to Buffy when it came to Spike.
"There is an evil law firm in Los Angeles by the name of Wolfram and Hart. They are the main adversaries of Angel. They are hell-bent on destroying him and the good that he attempts to do with the help of his friends. Their goal is to either eliminate him or turn him to their side." Thoughts of Angelus permeated the room. Xander, Willow, and Buffy's eyes were wide in fear for a moment.
"They brought back Darla as a human." For the benefit of Tara and Anya he explained. "Darla is Angel's Sire. The lawyers used her to try to manipulate Angel. When this did not work, they used Angel's Childe Drusilla to sire her." Again, a chill passed through the room at the implications of the two vampiress' unleashed upon the world again.
"Angel set them on fire, but they did not die. Darla disappeared. Prior to my departure to England, Spike informed me that Drusilla had visited him. He told her to leave. When we discovered Spike was gone, I recalled our conversation about Drusilla and we went to Los Angeles. It appeared that Wolfram and Hart decided to go after Angel's most favored Childe: Spike."
"Wait..." Buffy interjected. "Drusilla is Spike's sire."
"At Parent/Teacher night, though," Xander added, "Spike did call Angel his Sire. His Yoda."
Giles responded. "Angel did confirm to me that he is Spike's Sire." He noted Buffy's gaze fall to the floor again.
"It is unclear what their true plan for Spike was. I have not been able to discuss this with him yet. He is barely coherent. When we located him..." Giles paused as he removed his glasses. He fought back the bile rising in his throat as he recalled the site of Spike. "He was nude, chained to wall. He had been brutally tortured and starved to the point of death. He is extremely frightened and malnourished." He watched their reactions. Even Buffy and Xander looked stunned. "It was his wish to return to Sunnydale. Angel wanted him to remain in Los Angeles to recover."
Tara spoke. "I-Is he g-going to be okay?"
"I think he will recover physically." Giles looked down for a moment. "He seems mentally fragile. I am not privy to what occurred to him. One can only imagine."
The group sat in silence. Their private thoughts were interrupted by the phone ringing. Anya jumped up and ran to pick it up. "Magic Box. How can I help you?" She nodded her head and turned to her Co-owner. "Giles. It's for you." He slowly walked towards the phone and took the receiver form Anya.
"Hello? Yes, Angel...he is sleeping...yes...human blood...he is having some nightmares as expected...no, he has not been able to tell me what occurred...yes, I will let you know when he does...alright then...goodbye." Giles turned his attention back to the group.
"Now, that we have discussed Spike, is there anything else? Any new demons or threat I should know about?" He looked at the children. They shook their heads. "Very well. I am going to finish my work and return home."
*
When Giles returned, Spike was still on the couch sleeping. He went straight to the kitchen and placed a pot of water on the burner. He proceeded to warm some blood for Spike as well. As he brought it towards the slumbering vampire, he saw Spike's eyes flutter open.
"Hello." Giles said quietly as he watched Spike struggle to sit up. When the blond vampire was in a comfortable position, he took the mug offered. He kept his head down, staring at the mug.
Giles continued. "Spike, when you are ready to talk about what happened, I am here. But, there is no rush. Alright?" He tried to make eye contact with Spike.
Spike continued to look down. "Don't want to be a bother." He felt unworthy of the hospitality of the Ex-Watcher.
"You are not a bother. I assure you of that." Giles smiled when Spike raised his head and looked at him. A small smile crept across the vampire's face.
*
Giles sat in the Magic Box trying to make sense of the invoices in front of him. But, he could not concentrate. His thoughts were focused on Spike. They had returned from Los Angeles three weeks prior, and Spike physically was improving. He had put on a few pounds since starting his all human blood diet. His cheeks were not quite as hollow, the dark circles under his eyes had dissipated, and his color had improved. Giles worried about Spike's mental recovery though. He barely left the Ex-Watcher's apartment. He managed to get Spike to come to the shop on a few occasions. The vampire would hold up in the training room in the back reading. He rarely interacted with the others, although he did talk to Willow a few times. At the apartment, he would sit on the couch all day watching the television or reading books.
Giles was pleased that Spike felt comfortable around him. The blond vampire even shed some of his Big Bad image by wearing his wire rimmed spectacles around his fellow Englishman. In fact, Giles had seen very few traces of Spike's unique personality since his ordeal in Los Angeles. The vampire was extremely quiet and introspective these days. Giles often wondered if this is what Spike was like before he was turned or as a result of the trauma he endured.
Spike still had not discussed what occurred and Giles did not pry. Spike would come around in his own time.
Giles picked up the phone and dialed. After two rings, there was an answer.
"Angel Investigations. We help the helpless."
"Cordelia? This is Rupert Giles."
"Hey Giles! How's Spike?"
"As best as can be expected given the circumstances." He answered. "May I please speak to Angel?"
"Sure. Just a minute." There was a small pause as Cordelia gave the phone to a concerned looking vampire.
"Rupert. Is Spike okay?" Angel forcefully clutched the phone receiver.
"As we have discussed, physically he is improved. I worry about him though. He is extremely quiet. Any suggestions I have about training to regain his strength or resuming patrols is refused. I believe it would be healthy to attempt these things."
Angel paused. "I agree. Maybe it's time for me to come see him." Angel tried to keep the hope from his voice.
"Very well. When do you think you will arrive?"
"Well, Cordelia had a vision this morning that will need to be dealt with. After making some other arrangements, how about tomorrow?"
"I will try to have him in the Magic Box. It is our store on Main Street. You cannot miss it. Well, tomorrow then."
"See you then. And thank you, Rupert."
"For what?"
"For being there for William." Angel responded before hanging up.
"Your welcome." Giles answered.
The next morning
The door to the Magic Box opened and Giles looked up to find Buffy walking through. "Hey, Giles!" She said cheerfully.
Giles looked surprised to see her. "Don't you have a class at this time?"
"Yeah." She responded while she effortlessly jumped up to sit on the counter. "There was a burst water pipe in Allen Hall. So yay! Some of my classes are canceled for the day."
"Good. Good." He responded and turned his attention back to his papers.
She hopped off the counter. "Maybe I'll go train in the back." She said as she began to walk.
"Wait!" Giles exclaimed. "Spike is back there, Buffy."
"So?" She said with confusion in her eyes.
"I don't want you upsetting him."
"I'll leave him alone. Alright?" She rolled her eyes and continued walking. She opened the door to the room but did not see anyone. She slowly strode in and then saw Spike in the back corner. It appeared he was reading. She was nervous for a moment. She had not truly been around him in a few months. She proceeded over to some of the gym equipment.
A small voice came from the corner. "What do you want Slayer?" Spike quickly removed his reading glasses when Buffy turned to him.
"I came to do some training. My class was canceled." She looked at the blond vampire. He seemed so small crouched in the corner like that. He was so vulnerable without his duster. She stepped back a moment when Spike stood up. She barely recognized him. His hair was almost entirely free from the platinum color. It was quite curly and fell into his eyes. He was wearing a blue t-shirt and blue jeans instead of his usual black uniform. He looked at her, clutched his book, and began to walk out of the room.
"Wait!" She said suddenly to the retreating figure. Spike turned to her but did not speak. Buffy looked around almost searching for what to say.
"So, could you hold the punching bag for me?" She smiled. She was really trying to be nice. Spike eyes her suspiciously for a moment waiting for an insult or whatever the Slayer did to poke fun at him. It never came. He sighed and shrugged his shoulders. He placed his book and glasses down and walked over to the bag and held it for her. After twenty minutes, Buffy stopped to wipe her brow. Spike simply stood there looking lost.
"Um. I do miss your help on patrol." She said quietly. "I know you just like killing things...but, you know...thanks..." She trailed off. "Anyway, I'm going to go back up front." She grabbed her bag and left. Spike was not sure what to make of that. It was the first time the Slayer was actually nice to him. He shook his head. He was starting to think and he did not like that. He grabbed his book again and went back to the corner.
*
Buffy closed the door behind her and returned to the main shop. She was saw her friends and then stopped dead in her tracks. Angel stood by the counter talking to Giles.
"Is he in the back?" Angel said anxiously as he turned towards the door. He saw Buffy staring at him. "Hello, Buffy." He said rather coldly.
"What are you doing here, Angel?" Buffy said with her arms crossed.
"To see Spike." He responded. He thought he saw a look of disappointment on her face.
"You did nothing to upset him, Buffy?" Giles interjected.
"No."
Angel turned back to the Ex-Watcher. "Does he know I'm coming?" Giles shook his head. "I don't want to make things worse, but I need to see him."
"I understand. He needs to talk about what happened, Angel. Maybe you could encourage this."
"Well..." Angel took a deep, unneeded breath and readied himself to face his Childe. Angel knocked lightly on the door and stepped in. He left the door open. Angel immediately felt his Childe's presence. The air was filled with fear and despair. He saw Spike sitting in the corner. "Spike?" Angel looked at a wide eyes. Spike immediately stood. He kept himself plastered in the corner.
"What are you doin' here?" The blond vampire asked with a slightly trembling voice.
"I wanted to see how you were." Angel did not move closer as he saw Spike start to fidget and place his arms around himself.
"I'm fine." Spike forced the words out as he scanned the room so he did not have to look directly at his Sire.
"No, Will. I don't think you are." Angel responded in a very gentle voice. "I've been talking to Giles nearly everyday checking on you. He tells me you are eating well. You look better. But, he is worried about you. So am I." He tried to smile, but it was difficult. Spike looked at him with vacant eyes. At this point, he would have preferred outright rage over the emptiness he saw before him. He knew how to deal with an angry Spike. Angel surveyed the room but did not move closer to Spike. "Have you started training? It'll help your strength." He turned back to a shaking Spike.
"Go away..." The words fumbled out of his mouth. He moved from the corner trying to make it to the door. Giles walked through and Spike fell away from him as well.
The Ex-Watcher also adopted a very calm tone. "Spike, we want to help you get better."
"I'M FINE!!!!!!!!!" The blond vampire screamed at the top of lungs. The Scoobies rushed to the training room door when they heard the commotion. Spike backed himself against the wall and clutched his head as he slid to the floor. "I'm fine...I'm fine...I'm fine..." He kept repeating to himself as heavy tears fell from his eyes. Angel immediately crouched in front of him.
"Will, let me help you." Angel pleaded. "Tell me what they did to you. Why they took you. Please..." Tears fell from the chocolate brown eyes.
"No...no..." Spike shook his head violently. "Don't want to remember...don't make me remember..."
"William, tell Sire what happened." Angel softly said in a voice parents use for their children. "They were after me, weren't they?" He paused to give Spike some time. The blond vampire continued to murmur and shake his head.
Spike looked up with wild eyes and saw his Sire. In between sobs, Spike spoke, his voice rising with every word until he was practically yelling. "T-They wanted me to k-kill you...but I wouldn't...why couldn't I?...why couldn't I, Sire? Why can't I hate you like you hate me? Why?" Wide, innocent eyes looked at Angel. He searched for answers that he could not understand.
"I don't hate you, Will!"
"Y-You left me, Sire...left me with Drusilla and your Sire who hated me...why couldn't I kill you?" Spike sobbed as he said these words. "I couldn't..I wouldn't...I would never...I'm so weak...so weak..." He trailed off.
At the door, tears poured from Willow and Tara's eyes as they witnessed their friend's breakdown. Even Buffy's eyes teared and Xander just hung his head. Giles stayed in the back.
"You're not weak, Will. You are so strong!" Angel said as he lightly grasped Spike's shoulders. Spike twisted away from the touch.
"He said you knew...a-and that you didn't care! I called for you and you didn't come...you NEVER come!"
"Will, when I found out I looked for you. I didn't know! Believe me!" Angel was desperate.
"'M not strong!" Spike yelled as he sat on the ground curled into a ball. "I-I couldn't fight!" He sobbed. "L-Lindsey...h-he...he raped me....he...oh God..." Spike leaned over and proceeded to vomit up blood from his stomach. Even when he had nothing left to vomit, Spike continued to dry heave. Angel gathered a panting, gasping Spike into his arms as Spike continued to repeat: "I couldn't fight...I couldn't fight...I couldn't fight..."
"I know, Will. I'm so sorry." Angel said as he tried to calm the manic vampire. He gently kissed Spike's wet hair as he continued to rock him.
Giles went towards the door and encouraged the group to go back into the shop. He closed the door behind him to give the two vampires some privacy.
"Don't leave me, Sire..." Spike whispered as he felt his body against the cool strength of the old vampire. "Please..."
"I won't, Will. Never again. I promise you. I'm here." Angel closed his eyes for a moment. "My Precious. My Little One. I will always be here."
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