Splinter

Author: Mera

Rating: NC17 (sooner or later I hope!)

Pairing: Spike/ Angel (eventually)

Summary: Spike decided to stay in L.A. and work with Angel and Co. in Wolfram and Hart now known as A.I and Co. However, Angel still has a bit of a grudge towards Spike, for obvious reasons. Spike gets hurt. Angel is responsible in away. How will that work out I wonder?

Notes: this is all happening in S5 AtS, Cordy woke up from her coma and Fred is Fred. W&H is now the Fang Gang's playground so. no Eve yay! You'll figure out the details when you read.

Disclaimer: the chars belong to Joss though I borrowed some. am going to keep them for sometime. give them tea and crumpets. maybe make them show me their sexy dance and if I ever get bored *snort* I'll return them. Oh *rolls eyes* and concerning the new gossips about the rating I must sadly inform that it is MPAA's. lol I just HAD too!!

Thanks: A big smooch goes out to falcons319 for giving me the name to the story! Not to mention the encouragement to finish it since she was the very first person to read it (even before me!*g* don't ask. lets just say she endured something I wrote off the top of my head without rereading it. she's SO brave! And told me she loved it, go figure!). Love you lots hon!

A somewhat response to Angela's Challenge later on: A vampire's claim on another vampire is not eternal, despite common beliefs. It lasts for about 500 years, but most vampires don't know that. Seeing most don't live that long and the ones who live that long, don't usually claim another. And since the claim is broken based on the claimer's age, as Angel wanders around with his soul and spends centuries in hell, the claim on Spike is going to be expired soon. One day, several master vampires – some even older than Angel - came into Wolfram & Hart. They'd heard about Spike's claim expiring and would like claim Spike. Well the challenge helped me out when I got writers block. I used part of its plot not all coz I played with an element or two *blush* you'll see (hope that's ok Ang!)… but hey what's the fun in following roles anyways? ::hopes Angela doesn't throw sharp objects at her::

*Smoochies* for Farah my bestest for quickly reading over and pointing out the most obvious mistakes and Janet for always being there making what I write presentable… whatever would I do without you sweetie? Wait, I don't wanna know!

Italics & *& capitals = emphasize

~ = thoughts

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~Part: 1~

"Get out of my way, Spike!" Angel pushed Spike away from the advancing demon and into a stack of wooden crates, in turn causing them to break with splinters jumping all over the place.

With a swoop of his blade, Angel cut the demon's head off. He grumbled as he saw the blue blood on the once shiny sword but shrugged and wiped it on the demon's body.

"Now that's a night's work done," Angel said to his gathering friends.

Fred glared at him but when she got no reaction from the dark-haired vampire she huffed and went to help Spike up.

Angel frowned and looked at both Wesley and Gunn who didn't look at all pleased with him. "What did I do?"

Wesley raised his hands and wiped at his chin, carefully touching the bruise that had been caused by the second demon before Gunn, Fred and he had killed it.

"If I'm not wrong, which I doubt, Fred is upset with how you have treated Spike."

Angel's eyes widened. "What?! C'mon, he was standing in my way! I saved his life." He nodded towards the carcass.

"Angel-man. Spike had recently kicked your ass and he was takin' care of that nasty jus' fine and you pushed him into a stack of crates!" Gunn looked at him disapprovingly. Since Spike had become corporeal, the now-lawyer had come to be quite fond of him. Plus, he was a good friend, who could really hold his drink.

Angel raised a finger warning. "He didn't beat me!" he huffed.

However, before either Gunn or Wesley could question that forced statement, Fred returned with a scowling Spike at her side.

"I'm gonna go with Spike to his place. He got himself some splinters, I wonder how," she said glaring at Angel. "He needs me to help him get them out."

Angel crossed his arms. "And why does he need you for that? If I know Spike he should have enough of a brain to know how to get a splinter out of his finger."

"You know nothing about me, ya ponce!" Spike cut him off.

Fred laid her hand on Spike's arm, urging him to be calm and looked at Angel. "Some are in unreachable places, that's why, Angel."

Angel shook his head. "Then he has to learn to bend. We have a case, Fred, or have you forgotten. Children's lives are at stake. We have taken it on ourselves to go against the Senior Partners and took over Wolfram and Hart. And we all have a lot to do, no one's expendable. well, except you Spike." Angel smirked at the blond vampire who was holding his side. "You can go home and rest, lick your wounds and whatever. Your. skills aren't needed in this case."

"Angel.!" three voices chimed before Spike interrupted.

"It's ok, mates. Peaches is right. You don't need me for that. And I am a bit worn around the edges." Spike trailed off. He smiled bitterly before walking away.

******

"Here is the report that needs to be investigated, Boss." Harmony handed the file to Angel.

He looked it over then passed it to Wesley. "What do you think?"

The ex-watcher scanned the paper. "It seems that these were demon attacks, Gosags if I'm not mistaken."

"Damn those boys do nasty work," Gunn supplied looking over Wesley's shoulder.

"This doesn't seem to be a work of one demon, Angel. The science department traced at least five different claw and bite marks on the bodies," Fred added looking at Angel who sat against his large desk.

"Hello there, lowly people!" Cordelia greeted as she and Lorne entered. The rising actress, thanks to Lorne's connections as well as her talents, smiled at her friends. "My powers of observation tell me that some evil is afoot!"

"Believe me, Princess. Evil is a foot and a hand and two heads judging from their faces." Lorne grinned.

"Actually, you are somewhat right, Lorne. Gosags have two heads but more than one appendage, I fear," Wesley looked up from the book he had opened showing them the demon's picture.

"Eww! And I thought demons couldn't get any uglier!" Cordelia exclaimed before looking at Lorne. "You babe, are an excluded party, of course."

The green demon raised his eyebrow at her. "Never had a doubt about that, Sugar."

"Guys, the demon. how do we kill it?" Angel addressed both Fred and Wesley.

Fred blinked. "Well. it's really simple; chop it up into tiny pieces."

Angel frowned and looked at the book. "It said that?"

"Actually, Vamp-man. It says, and I quote; dismemberment into several unattached limbs." Gunn shrugged. "That translates into hacking at them until none of 'em are standin'."

Cordelia waved. "Well hack away boys, I'm just here to supply visions and to look pretty."

"Don't forget bringing us oodles of cash since Angel-cakes shut down most of the nasty dealings of the lovable yet evil W&H," Lorne pointed out.

Cordelia gave them one of her famous Hollywood smiles. "You're right. I'm the bread winner! Heh, wonder who wears the dress in this family?"

All eyes turned to Angel who looked back. "What?" He crossed his arms. "I don't wear dresses. It makes me look fat," he muttered.

Gunn stage whispered, "Who's gonna take that?"

Cordelia shook her head. "I always do."

Wesley shrugged. "When she's not there, I take up the post."

Fred looked at them. "Well, I asked the last time."

They looked at Lorne. "Nah, sweeties. Every time I do the askin', he thinks I'm a perv!"

Cordelia raised a well shaped eyebrow. "So?"

Lorne barely resisted the urge to stick out his tongue. Gunn sighed. "Fine I'll ask, you chickens!"

They turned to look at Angel who was looking at them expectedly.

"You know I can hear you guys right? Not only am I in the same room and you're not even trying to be the least bit covert but I have vampire hearing. And yes to answer your unasked question so we can get back to work, I once wore a dress to please Darla, but of course Wil- uh, Spike snuck in and saw. and let's end it here ok?"

Cordelia went up to him and patted him on the back while saying with a pout, "Poor big bad vampire had a traumatic experience."

"Where is 'Blondie-bear' anyways?" Gunn asked. "He's always here at this time of the night and we have a hunt to do, he never misses that."

"Maybe he's still tired after last night," Fred said and looked worriedly at her boyfriend. Wesley held her shoulder and gave her a smile. The two were lost in each other's eyes for a while but the moment broke when they heard a yelp.

"Ow, Cordy what was that for?!" Angel glared at Cordelia holding his pinched arm. After she had woke up, Lorne did a reading and proclaimed her healthy and demon-less and thankfully the few visions so far hadn't affected her the least, perhaps the Powers That Be were in favor of what they have done to dampen the evil since they took over Wolfram and Hart, but nevertheless Cordelia still had strength in her. Let no one say that fame and success made her frail.

"The guys told me what you did to Spike. That was rude of you Angel!"

"Since when do you stand up for an evil vampire?" Angel shot back.

Cordelia folded her arms. "Since he stopped being an evil vampire and willingly got himself a soul to be burned in order to save the world, one that I am part of, before being brought back by an evil cooperation to work for them and shunning them coz he didn't do that stuff anymore, that's when!"

Angel nearly whined, "Why do you always have to bring that up?"

"Coz it's true. Angel, you need to stop this jealous fixation you have against Spike. So he banged Buffy, who hadn't?!"

Angel gave her a hard stare.

"Fine, fine so three guys other than your broody-ness and including Spike had a go with her highness. But hey, last I heard he treated her as best as an evil vampire can get, even better as he chose to go against his primal nature and. whoa that's why you're so green you could put Lorne to shame!"

"I am not jealous of Spike!" Angel said in a hard tone.

"Sing another tune Sweet-cheeks, we all know it's true." Lorne looked at the others who nodded firmly.

Angel waved his hands. "Whatever! We need that brat for tonight's fight. Harmony!"

"Yes, Boss?" The blonde vampire popped her head into the office.

"Call Spike's apartment and tell him to meet us near the sighting of those kills by the dock."

"Sure things, Bossy!" The blonde head disappeared.

"Didn't Wolfram and Hart have a specialized team for tracking and killing things?" Cordelia asked.

"Yeah, but Angel shut them down coz they ruined his first day at the job," Fred chirped. Cordelia looked shocked at that. Wesley elaborated, "And most importantly they were unstable in their way of destroying witnesses, innocent or not."

"But the main reason was they pissed the main man off." Gunn smiled. Angel only shrugged when Cordelia looked at him. Well he couldn't deny the truth.

"Sorry Angel, there was no answer." Harmony popped back in.

"That irresponsible." Angel began to curse the blond before Cordelia asked, "Why not call his cell?"

That stopped Angel. "He has a cell phone?" Everyone nodded. "I didn't know that, since when?"

"Well since I gave him one after our first night out on the town," Gunn replied.

"You had a night out on the town with Spike? Why would you.?" Angel sounded perplexed.

"First night, there were many after that. He's real good company once you get to know him." Gunn shrugged.

"One would think it's surprising that you; someone who had spent nearly two decades with him, as The Diaries had recorded, more than with your significant others, would know why." Wesley looked at Angel with interest and not a little mischief.

Angel grimaced. "Yeah, well killing and maiming helped me overlook his annoyance, most of the time."

Fred glared at Angel. She didn't care what Spike was, all she cared about who he was now with her and the others and what good he had done. Angel was wrong about Spike and it was time he got over himself and realized that. However, the young scientist couldn't find it in her sweet heart to tell him that, yet. She passed Angel on her way to his desk and used his phone to dial a number. She waited a few seconds before saying, "Hi, Spike. Why haven't you been answering your phone? Oh, you saw it was Harmony, I can get that." She giggled before acting more concerned, "Are you okay after last night Spike? You're usually at the offices by now."

"Just tell that insufferable brat that if he was serious in this hero trip of his he should meet us at the pier!"

Cordelia slapped Angel over the head for that comment. Sweet Fred's eyes turned cold but she held the urge to slam the phone over the tall vampire's head, barely.

"Heard him, huh?" Fred talked into the receiver. "You know you don't have to come if you're not feeling well."

"Bet he's faking," Angel mumbled when he sought refuge near the men but they gave him a disapproving look.

~ What!? Is everybody on that fraud's side now? ~

"You sure you're okay.?" Fred began to ask but Cordelia snatched the phone from her hand.

"Listen here, Blondie. If Angel causes you any problems while your off killing those ugly demons you tell me and I'll give him a fist full, you hear?!" Cordelia spoke addressing both vampires.

Everyone clearly heard the joyful sound of Spike's laughter at Cordelia being an over protective hen. He bid her goodbye and agreed upon her question to accompany her to a party uptown a week after.

Angel pouted trying to look solemn. "You didn't have to do that, Cord. And if you needed an escort you could've asked me and."

She cut him off, "Yes, I did, you were a big jerk. And as for the party, Spike fills out a tux better than you not to mention he's a people person not like someone I know. And with that peroxide hair and those looks he easily passes for a celebrity or some kind of rock star and please don't get me started with the accent!"

The centuries old vampire garbled, "I have an accent."

"Pfft," she said gestured with her hand at him, "I'm talking cool accent here."

"Princess has a point there, Muffin. Slim-boy has to only snap his fingers and I'd get him a dozen modeling, acting and singing contracts without breaking a sweat!" Lorne pointed out cheerfully. He knew all that for a fact. Spike had talents in all those and more. If only he would take a time off the world saving gig.

"Great! Do you two have anything more good to add about Spike?" Angel asked Wesley and Gunn, looking annoyed.

"Well now you mention it, he has a vast knowledge of demon vocabulary. And if he isn't acquainted with it he quickly adapts it," Wesley said with a smile remembering the hours he and Spike spent over musty old books.

Angel held a growl and looked at Gunn with a questioning look. "What about you? No, don't tell me you've already said you two hang out together a lot, bet he plays basketball with you too, right?"

Gunn rubbed his head. "Angel-man. I can see where you're headed at, I mean yeah Spike is good in some stuff. well more stuff than you but you'll always be our boss not to mention our friend and we can never replace."

"Cut the sentimentality, Gunn, tell me!"

To the observant eye, it seemed that Gunn had taken several steps back. "Um, well he's really knowledgeable in the law thing and all but hey that's no big deal or anything..."

Angel actually growled this time. "That's it! I'm gonna go kill something!" With that he picked a sword off the wall and stormed out, snarling at Harmony when she tried to ask him something.

"I guess that was our queue to follow?" Fred smiled at Lorne and Cordelia before she and the other two men headed off after their boss.

~Part: 2~

"Look out!" Angel yelled as one of the large demon's multiple arms almost took off Wesley and Fred's head in one swoop. He growled angrily and struck his sword in the demon's chest before taking off its head, arms and legs in swift motions.

On the farther side of the dock, Gunn and Spike dallied on with their demons. However, since their share was twice as much as Angel's group had they encountered some difficulties.

Quickly, with the help of Wesley and Fred they dismembered the last two on their side and ran towards their colleagues. Upon reaching them they found three, according to the limb parts scattered, dead demons while Spike and Gunn fought with the other three, barely missing the axes that the monsters swung at them.

In synchronization the five regrouped and quickly disposed of the remaining three. Fred breathed a sight of relief.

"That was a close one!"

Wesley nodded while checking her over, making sure all was intact causing Fred to giggle and slap at his hands.

Gunn smirked. "Yo English! Can't wait until you two find a room?" he asked with a joking glint in his eyes. The tall man now lived to make his friend blush as much as possible.

During this playful banter Angel was glaring at Spike. He suddenly broke his silence. "What the hell were you thinking, Spike? You weren't supposed to let them separate us! You put my people in danger!"

"Oh bugger off Angel! They over powered me, is all. There were six of them if you haven't noticed," Spike snarled at his grandsire.

"Yo' man, chill." Gunn stood in front of Angel in case the vampire decided to take things into his own hand. "Blondie's right. And besides he took out two of 'em nasties on his lonesome." The lawyer thought that would placate Angel but it only resulted in the opposite.

"Don't fuckin' give me excuses Spike. you know the drill..." he said sidestepping Gunn and standing in front of Spike looking directly into his eyes. "You endangered my people. You acted selfishly thinking that you were still the big bad and that you could take them on all alone." Angel continued his accusation pronouncing each word with a finger at Spike's chest.

".what do you have to say for yourself?" Angel angrily asked, shaking his head and looking up at the heavens not knowing how to treat this insolent childe.

"Angel."

Angel turned to look at Fred when he heard her scared voice. "What is it Fred?"

Fred just pointed at Spike while Gunn ran up in time to catch Spike before he smashed his head on the hard ground. The black man held the vampire close raising his eyes up at the three gaping people looking for answers to why the vampire fell in a dead faint but finding that they were as clueless as he was.

Angel shook his head to straighten out his thoughts and quickly pulled out his cell phone calling for an emergency assistance from the W&H medical team. After finishing the call and replacing his cell in his coat pocket, he looked down at the body at his feet.

By that time, Fred had crouched down running her hand lightly over her friend's dead white face. Slowly she raised her head to look at Angel and ask,

"What did you do?!"

******

Angel groaned as each time he finished looking through a file Harmony marched right in and slammed another on his desk. And each time she did that she sent an angry glare at his direction.

Another pile was done and counted down from five. and there entered his bubbly blonde secretary with another load.

"Harmony!" Angel growled, slamming down his hands one the desk. "What the hell are these files doing piling on my desk?! Half of them aren't even supposed to be sent to me!"

The blonde vampire crossed her hands. "Well, they are addressed to you," she said in a matter of fact kind of tone.

Angel pointed towards the top folder. "Look at this one, Harmony. The name clearly states automobile construction, what in the name of all that isn't trying to drive me up the wall is it doing in my office?!"

The angered brunet was faced with a blank face. Wide eyes with long blond lashes blinked at him before a cherry pink mouth parted. "Everyone is mad at you."

Angel opened his mouth to reply but he frowned instead. "Huh?" He shook his head to try and clear it. "What?"

Harmony sighed and wondered how someone so dumb could've gotten to be the CEO. "You know EVERYONE. people you know and the ones who you don't know that didn't even like you before are mad at you."

Angel massaged his head. He couldn't believe that Cordelia had talked him into letting Harmony be his secretary, he was sure the actress was making him pay for something he did and at that moment he guessed whatever he did was really bad. "Humor me, Harmony. But why are they mad at me?"

She huffed and placed her hands on her hips. "For what you did to Blondie Bear what else!"

Angel searched his head. "Spike? What does he have to do with this?" The vampire debated finding his insolent grandchilde and teaching him a lesson for. whatever he had done now.

Harmony's eyes widened as if she couldn't believe he was asking that. "I can't believe you are asking that!" As always she was predictable. "Spikey is in the medical wing because of what you did!"

"I didn't. wait." Angel frowned. "He's still there? It's been over twelve hours since the med team took him. Why is he still there?" The vampire sensed worry start to rise but squished it down before it made itself known.

Harmony shrugged. Angel's frown deepened and pressed his intercom. "Wes."

"He's with Spike," Harmony interrupted him. He started to push another button but she continued, "and so are Cordy, Fred, Gunn and Lorne. I would've stayed too but people have been dropping me files for you for hours." With that she snapped on her heel and exited the office door closing it with a click.

Before Angel could get his bearings her blonde head popped in. "I would go down there as soon as possible if I were you. Cordy isn't pretty when she's angry," she said warningly then popped out.

Angel pushed himself away from his desk and headed for his door. "What's the worse that could happen?"

******

"Your grandchilde is dying."

Angel closed his eyes and opened them slowly. "He's what?" a soft growl escaped with his words.

The doctor knowing a bad situation retreated a little. "Well, not if he doesn't move," he said trying to appease the vampire.

"You've been saying that for like forever!" Cordelia advanced on the white coated man with a dangerous gleam in her eyes. The poor man paled even more at her than he had at the two-century old vampire. "Tell us what's wrong with him and how to fix it."

Lorne gently placed his hand on Cordelia's arm and slowly pulled her back away from the terrified doctor. This only served to remind Angel of the exact same scene he had walked into to ten minutes earlier. Ten minutes because most of them were filled by Cordelia and surprisingly Fred yelling at him before they calmed down choosing to focus on the matter at hand before getting back to the business of scolding their boss.

Wesley sighed. "Cordelia perhaps the good doctor needed space to be able to speak." He turned to the man inquisition. "Now, since all of us are here," they all threw a significant glance at shameful Angel, ". . . you could possibly explain to us what has caused Spike to pass out and why he shouldn't move."

The doctor coughed. "Yes, well, somehow a small but lethal wooden splinter found itself in his bloodstream and it would slowly kill him as it pushes its way to his heart. Since vampires are dead and their heart doesn't beat, the only way for the blood to move around is if they remain in motion. If he doesn't move then his blood stream remains still and thus the splinter wouldn't be carried to the heart."

"I don't get it. Vamps always get into fights and lots of times they get staked but instead of being hit in the heart they get a gaping whole in their chests. there gotta be splinters in that. you telling me they all die of splinters that way?" Gunn asked remembering his encounters with vampires during his street days.

The man shook his head. "Vampires after enduring a hard fight usually rejuvenate, rest. The vampire body is equipped and if the injured vampire rests for enough time, he or she will be returned to full health. If they get infected by either poison or wood the body usually pushes it out from the wound if given enough time. Now how I see this is that Spike had a hard fight the night before and that's when the splinter found its way into his body. His body didn't have enough time to push it out because instead of resting he fought again, causing his blood to move faster and the splinter with it"

"He's right." Angel gulped, knowing now the seriousness of the situation then. "What can be done?"

The doctor faced him and replied. "For now, he will be kept sedated for those reasons. We did a scan on his body and the med team is working on the splinter's exact location as we speak and hopefully we will be able to perform surgery to extract it."

"There's something else, isn't there?" Angel asked suspicious.

"You must know Mr. Angel is that wood is very poisonous if entered into the blood stream of a vampire. if not extracted in time, I'm afraid he will die even if the fragment hasn't found its way to his heart." The doctor looked uncomfortable. "I'm only asking this for the patient's sake, sir. But you are of his blood and family blood as you know is really powerful."

"He'll give you as much as you need," Cordelia broke her silence. Angel opened his mouth to say something but wisely shut it as his friends all gave him stern looks. He rolled his eyes and nodded.

The doctor sighed. "Very well, I'll send the nurse for some in a little while. Excuse me." He quickly exited the tense room.

Angel opened his mouth to say something but was shocked into silence when he was slapped on the face.

Fred pulled her hand and placed it on her mouth. Her eyes were streaming with tears as she looked angrily at him. "He needed help, Angel. He asked me to help him get the splinters out and you told me not to. He was helping us, helping YOU, and all you could do is criticize him, fight with him and push him farther away. He is lying in there because you refused to let me help him. he could die because he chose to stay here with *you* instead of going to see Buffy! He never let us forget you were the boss and that you needed help, that you couldn't do everything on your own, that you were our friend. He always told us that you were family and you never desert family, that you were the only family he had." by that time Fred's voice was hitching with sobs and she hid her face in Wesley's chest.

"Angel, man, Spike might brass on about how much he hates you only coz he knows you're not that fond of him but he's always there fighting the fight," Gunn said looking into Angel's shocked eyes. "Haven't you ever thought why? Why in L.A.? Evil is an international cooperation and I should know, so way stay?" the tall man left the question in the air and left with the others through the wing doors.

The only one left was Wesley who joined Angel in looking through the glass at a peacefully looking slumbering Spike. "We talk sometimes, a lot actually. But every time we talk about his past, the time he lived in Old London, Italy or another place he would get this smile, I never seen him do it apart from those moments. And only when he talks about you." The English man gripped the vampire's shoulder for a second before leaving the way the others did.

During all that, Angel never took his eyes off Spike's face. Even when the jittery nurse came to take his blood, he gave her his arm but his intense gaze never wavered from its scrutiny.

~Part: 3~

Worry and anticipation could be seen on the faces of the six people waiting outside the state-of-the-art W&H O.R. Angel had a brief thought of whether this was the same place Lindsay had collected his new hand. He pushed that thought away as he recalled what the doctor had told them before he took Spike into surgery.

The doctor had gravely explained that the splinter had breached the heart's walls but mercifully not completely. He had clarified to them of how they had to break the patient, SPIKE'S, chest open. Then they had to take care, and thus time in taking out the wood, not to jolt it into the heart and in turn dusting the comatose vampire.

He had given them a 50/50 chance of survival claiming that they were good odds considering that in another situation without the aide of magic, their chances of surviving would've dropped to 1! He assured them that they had a team of professional surgeons and that he had full trust in them. He then agitatedly asked if Mr. Angel would be so kind as to give them some more blood to help with the healing process.

Angel's hard stare never wavered but turned expectantly at the earlier nurse waiting for her to do her job. She approached him and like before didn't dare ask him to sit down but took the presented arm and attached the equipment taking two bags full. But after Angel's inclination she took another two.

That was half an hour ago and Angel was still distastefully sipping at the now cold mug of blood that Harmony had given him to replace the blood. He knew that if the operation was in a normal hospital it would have taken hours if not a day or more. But what was the use of owning a company with a high-tech medical team and equipment not to mention the available magic if it would take this long? Did that mean something went wrong? Was the doctor at that moment thinking up ways to tell them the . 'bad' ... news? Angel frowned and looked firmly at the door which he presumed the doctor was hiding behind. Wasn't Spike meeting his end good news? Did Fred's and the other's words rile him up that much? The older vampire always told Spike to leave, to get dusted and it bothered him that the blond might not come out of this undead. Was that because he cared? He shook his head mentally. It was more likely he was feeling guilty because it WAS his fault his grandchilde was under the hands of white  coats. Yes, that was the only reason! Or was it?

It was as if everyone sensed the vampire's dark broody mood and chose to preserve the silence rather than break it. From time to time, Fred would cast worried glances at Angel wondering if her words were that harsh. But then she would remind herself that Angel's peace of mind wasn't what they were all here for but a presumably dying Spike which only served bring her down even her even more. She rested her head against Wesley's shoulder sinking deeper in her chair with a sigh.

Lorne on the other hand kept his red eyes locked on Angel. He observed the walls that the vampire had put around himself and wished his friend would let him in so that he could help. The green seer was the only one present, other than Wesley perhaps, who knew enough of demon/vampire relation to know that Angel was really fazed with what happened, if not completely putting the blame on himself which was only just if Lorne was ever asked but not the least healthy thing to bottle up.

The demon might not be able to read Angel without hearing him sing since the vampire hid his feelings so well even from himself but he could read tension like bold ink on white paper. Whenever Spike is in the vicinity, Angel's body would stiffen up and his demeanor would turn offensively aggressive. The tension, for the sake of sounding clichéd, was sexually infused. Spike on the other hand didn't need to sing, though it was always a pleasure to listen to, for Lorne to be able to read him. He was easily read and opened his soul for the entire world to glimpse into his emotions if one bothered to look. And the demon had looked and saw. Spike would turn defensive only if Angel chose to start. The blond would become snarky and witty throwing comments at the older vampire for the sake of inflaming his anger as well as keeping his attention focused. Spike was like a dry sponge sucking and thriving on the attention not caring what kind it was as long as Angel saw him it seemed enough.

Lorne sighed and continued his observation of Angel. He doubted his boss knew any of this. But he wondered with avid curiosity what he was thinking about but not dared be the one to ask. He liked his life the way it is.

An hour. It finally seemed like the breaking point. Cordelia jumped up from her seat and everyone turned their eyes towards her except Angel who was still burning holes through the emergency doors. Eyes snapped from the Actress to the Vampire back and forth waiting for the confrontation. It was a matter of time before the silence had to be broken and it seemed like the strongest was Cordelia. She raised her head with confidence and approached he secluded friend. Two steps away she opened her mouth to say something but stopped when she saw Angel push away from the wall.

She looked to the direction he was heading and saw the doctor exiting. It only took a mere second for the man to be surrounded by everyone. It was obvious to him that the patient was clearly cared for. He waited for the immanent question but no one put a voice to it. No one dared to be the one to open the door to the barer of bad news. Luckily for the doctor who valued his life especially in this kind of business he wasn't such a barer.

"The operation was a success. The patient, Spike, was put in recovery room and thanks to the blood you provided us with." He inclined towards Angel. ". I would estimate a day for him to be able to heal enough to leave. He should wake up in a little while though."

Countless sighs of relief filled the waiting room. A girly squeal was heard by the exit door.

Harmony jumped happily in the doorway. "Oh, I have to tell everybody the great news!!"

Amused eyes turned from her departing figure to Angel's.

"Now Angel." Cordelia started.

Angel interrupted her, "Not now Cordy." He waved at her tiredly. "Yell at me later. I've wasted enough time hanging around here I've got a load of files on my desk and cases to solve."

"Angel?! Aren't you gonna see him?" Cordelia asked taken aback.

"Yeah, man, the doc said he'll be coming to any second now, right doc?" Gunn looked at the doctor who nodded then quickly excused himself to go do something but actually wanting to leave the tension filled room.

Angel snorted. "Yeah, well, with the way he follows my shadow I'll see him in no time." He turned his back to his friends and exited the ward.

~Part: 4~

The room slowly came into focus. It was blurry at first but after a few blinks it cleared up. He was obviously in a hospital room. White walls all around where else could he be? A brief horrified moment he thought he was back there. But fortunately a big sparkly floating balloon came into his view.

"It's twins?" he read in a raspy voice.

"Spike, you're awake!" He heard several pairs of feet shuffle and in a few seconds found himself looking up at several grinning faces.

He tried to sit up but fell back down with a loud gasp clutching his chest. "Bloody hell, it feels like someone's torn my chest open with a blunt chainsaw!"

The vampire didn't try to get up again not only because of the sharp pain but because a well manicured hand held him down. "Yeah, well you shouldn't make any sudden moves coz that's basically what happened?"

Spike wildly looked up at Cordelia. "WHAT?"

"Perhaps it would be better to explain when you're comfortable," Wesley suggested looking over his hospital bed. "Ah, that should do it." The leaning man pressed a button causing the bed to slowly switch into sitting position without putting any weight on the patient.

"You got yourself a nasty case of the splinter, Slim," Lorne somewhat explained. Spike raised his eyebrow at the vague sentence and inclined to Wesley knowing that if anyone could explain with over excess details he might add was an ex-watcher.

Strangely, after ten minutes of going back and forth, Spike got the whole story, even guessed how, or why he retained the piece of wood. He had patted Fred's hand when he saw her eyes brimming with tears and cut her short when she tried to apologize, telling her she didn't need to. Nevertheless, he knew that they were keeping something from him. He narrowed his eyes suspiciously and before he could question their evading tactics he was intercepted.

Cordelia had chosen that moment to glare at him. "You should take better care of yourself, Blondie! I've had your tux custom-made for when you pick me up for the party. I so hope you haven't forgot!" The words might have seemed self-centered but at ease knowing that her friend was out of danger.

"No, Cordy, I haven't forgotten. I'll be your gentleman in waiting," he joked with a smile. "Okay with all the roundabout way of retailing me my condition  how do you explain that?" He pointed at the cherry balloon.

All eyes turned to Fred's direction who resembled the balloon in color. She toed the ground. "Well they were all out of 'Get Well Soon' and this was the only one that was hospital related."

"The thought is what matters dear." Wesley hugged her across the shoulder.

Spike shrugged. "It is lovely pet. And hey, if I take care that it doesn't pop, maybe I'll give it back to you one day," he said with a suggestive glance at the embracing couple. Wesley coughed to cover up his embarrassment.

Spike looked around. "A head count shows someone missing. Where's the big poof? To busy fixing his hair to make sure I'm well enough to pester him again?" His tone of voice might have conveyed nonchalant but his soulful eyes showed how upset he was.

Gunn took the call. "Yeah, man. You know the boss, all work and no play makes him a non-happy broody vamp! The poor guy is swamped with files courtesy of Harmony."

Spike nodded with a smile accepting that. Not even asking why they, his team, would have enough free time to pay him a visit, while the CEO couldn't take a minute to stop by and drop his grandchilde an insult on his way to the office. Even Harmony left him a lovely vase of pink flowers with a 'get well soon Blondie Bear' card in it. He smiled as Gunn made a joke at his expenses causing everyone to laugh. His eyes drifted to his bedside where a bag of blood was hung for his dripping pleasure. He knew from the smell of it who it was from. His eyes softened. Perhaps a little visit to his swamped grandsire was in order.

~Part: 5~

Angel stiffened up and his grip on the pen tightened. He could feel the expensive gold coated pen start to crack. He loosened his grip but didn't stop writing or even look up. The door closed as softly as it opened. Unsure shuffling of feet moved slowly but surely towards his large desk. From the corner of his eyes he could distinguish a dark figure standing a couple paces away from him. He didn't need to raise his eyes to identify the visitor. He knew whom it was from the moment the person had their hand on the doorknob for more than a minute deciding to enter or not. What Angel didn't want to acknowledge was that he was holding his non-existent breath wondering if the door was going to open or not.

A few more minutes of pregnant silence and the figure started to shift on its feet. Angel knew that he wouldn't be able to stand still if his life depended on it. A cough to break the silence seemed to be a perfect start.

"Angel?"

Angel faked an irritated sigh and raised bored eyes. "Spike I'm busy. This had better be important."

The dark haired vampire raked his eyes over the younger vampire in a show of displeasure. But in fact he was making sure that he was fine. And there was no way anyone could get him to admit that he had been worried about his grandchilde. He barely conceded to it himself, reluctantly.

Spike narrowed his eyes but refused to fall for the bait. He didn't want to fight. Not right now. He had something more important to do.

"Yeah, could see. Just wanted to say thanks is all."

Angel shook his head and looked deep into Spike's eyes which only reflected sincerity. He had to give it to his boy - no not his - he could pull off this act if only Angel didn't know him better.

Spike frowned when soft laughter turned into bellowing. Angel clutched his desk as he came down from his sudden burst into mirth. The blond pulled back quickly and fell in the chair when Angel rose quickly from his with a dark look in his eyes.

"You would have the audacity to blame me for what happened! Well, newsflash, Captain Peroxide. What happened to you was by no means my fault. If you would grow a few brain cells and take a hint, you would leave and that wouldn't have happened. Comprender!" How dare he? The vampire growled. Come into his office and place the blame on him like that. Like he needed to? Like Angel hadn't spent the hours since he found out Spike's condition awake thinking over his action, brooding, over Spike? Well, Spike didn't know that. And he wouldn't. And now he comes striding in all well and pretend to thank him. Angel knew what he meant by that. The younger vampire had a hidden meaning. It was like saying, 'thanks for almost killing me'. Well Angel wasn't going to sit there and take that extra guilt, even if he well deserved it.

Spike was looking at Angel like he had gone crazy. "Reading all that small print didn't scramble your brain did it?" he said in the same sincerity.

Angel felt his blood boil. He knew he shouldn't have worried about this errant childe. And to think he actually nearly lost consciousness because of blood loss after giving his blood for him. And this was the thanks he got. He growled warningly. "Get out of my office, Spike!"

Spike rose slowly with a look of disgust in his eyes. "Fuck you. I get it. Here I came to thank you for sparing some blood my way and you act all high and mighty," he spat. Before coughing and clutching his chest and closing his eyes in pain. Angel felt taken back. Before he could say anything Spike opened his eyes and looked at him coldly. "Typical, Angelus." With his hand still held protectively over his chest he took angry strides out of the office slamming the door behind him so hard it rattled on its hinges.

Angel stood frozen in his stop. Pondering which would be more affective slamming his head against the desk or the wall when a blur of pink entered.

Wearily he looked at Harmony who had a scowl on her lips. "Would it have killed you to just say 'you're welcome?'," she didn't give him a chance to answer as she continued, "*ugh* Cordy is SO gonna hear of this!" with a twist of pointy heals she was out.

Angel didn't bother to protest at the treatment. Not because he deserved it, and more, but he was used to it by now. He was there to look 'big and menacing' as Cordelia would say.

"Damn it! Why do I always do that?!" He chose the desk. He could easily replace it.

~Part: 6~

Angel was still in the office when Maintenance came in to replace his desk the next day. Gazing out his necro-tempered glass at the setting sun, he tried to ignore the way Harmony was looking him up. He knew she was looking disdainfully at the same clothes he wore the day before. She must be thinking that he hadn't left the office since she last stormed off to tell on him to Cordelia. which would be quite accurate.

He sighed relieved when he felt his annoying secretary leave after the crew closing the door behind them. He turned anticipating that his angry assistant had ordered in a desk that wouldn't agree with him and was stopped in his tracks when he saw a desk that seemed to be the exact replica of his previous ill-fated desk. And what was more; there was a mug of warm blood waiting for him on it. Somehow, the sight of that made the Master vampire's bones turn cold.

~ The death sentenced last meal? ~

The desk could be explained as Harmony refusing to bring in anything that contradicted with good taste but the blood? Angel picked up the mug and sniffed it trying to sense if there was poison or Holy water in it. He felt his stomach growl and his demon coming to the surface. He hadn't fed for almost a day. So he took his chances and gulped down the blood hungrily. He moaned as the taste of fresh warm otter blood washed over his tongue dampening his hunger. He licked his lips not wanting to waste any drops of tasty nourishment. He opened his eyes, brown again, and looked at the intercom wondering if it would be wise to ask Harmony for more or would it be asking too much?

He slapped himself on the forehead. ~ God damn it! You're letting yourself be controlled by your secretary! A ditzy blonde vampire who's angry at you because you've been mean to her 'Blondie Bear'! ~

Angel pouted. He sighed and replaced the mug on the desk. Heavily, he fell into his leather chair, face hidden in his hands. Spike. He was the reason Angel couldn't sleep the day before. He couldn't stop thinking about everything. And by everything he meant from the beginning. From the second he laid eyes on Drusilla's new boy. The easy first weeks, they were inseparable. He doted on the boy which was easy since Darla was off with her sire. He taught him everything. How to fight. How to feed. How to BE a vampire. He watched as the young fledgling took in his kills, how he fed like he hadn't fed for an eternity. How the boy neatly sank his teeth into willing flesh he had easily lured with his natural charm. How he closed his eyes savoring the taste his long lashes resting against alabaster skin. The dark vampire remembered how he used to watch the youngling swallow, how his neck worked with each gulp. He recalled how his eyes had always locked onto lips as they pulled back from the  drained dead body. Lips that were red and full from the feed parted with a gleeful smile as bluer than blue eyes looked at him for approval. He would then grin and clap the boy on his back giving William what he wanted yet denying himself what HE wanted.

He remember how angered he was and jealous when William rambled on about how much he loved his Dark Princess and how she was the one who made him what he was, how she was his 'Destiny'! Angelus couldn't help what he did then. He knew something that the boy hadn't and he wanted to teach it to the young vampire in a manner he would never forget. He owned Drusilla and made sure William knew that. The boy soon found that out to his distaste and anger. But what the fledgling didn't realize until much later was that that had applied to him as well.

When Darla returned she was ready to see this new addition to the family. What she met was not William but his new self, Spike. That didn't matter to the blonde vampire as she did not know William before, nor cared. Drusilla didn't care about the loss but in fact loved the new name and was fond of call him by it. Angelus on the other hand hated it. Hated how with this new persona William - Spike - defied him even more everyday. He knew he couldn't discipline the months old vampire the way he did before with Drusilla because of Darla's presence and he knew how his sire hated to be ignored. So he reverted to mere bodily torture. He wanted more. He knew his 'boy' wouldn't break physically but emotionally. However, Spike knew that Angelus couldn't use Drusilla against him anymore and that made him more rebellious then ever. He endangered them time and again with his random and sloppy kills through his new toy and namesake.

Angelus was enraged but he couldn't do anything other than torture and that only seemed to inflame the young one. Darla had suggested staking the errant boy but Angelus wouldn't allow it. He claimed that he wasn't one to take the easy road. That he would find an answer himself. He was telling the truth but not all of it. The fact was that he was still, more even, enthralled by the lovely boy. He wanted to have a taste, and more. The opportunity showed itself when the Master requested Darla's presence and his grandchilde, The Seer, Drusilla for pressing business. He had left an opening if Angelus wished to come as well.

As expected Angelus declined and wished them a quick journey back while in the inside he screamed in joy for his plan was soon to unfold. However, his plan was almost shattered before it started when Drusilla started to clap her hands in joy saying something about Granddaddy meeting her Spike. He remained calm as he explained to her that Spike - he used the name with repugnance - was still too young and inexperienced and would only be criticized by The Master, and disappoint his 'Mummy'. He suggested that the young one stay with him where he could train him more accordingly so the next time her boy would be more presentable. Thankfully, Drusilla relented with only a pout, gave Spike a quick kiss, and told him to do his studies well so he would get to meet Granddaddy soon.

Darla in contrast wasn't fooled. She only raised a delicate eyebrow knowingly and entered the carriage that took them away from their mansion in Paris. Angelus let out a relived sigh. He knew if Darla insisted William be introduced to The Court he couldn't say against it. William had proved himself worthy and more to be part of the Aurelius Line in a very short time. Angelus knew that he was saved from Darla insisting on them both coming because his sire knew that her Master would take quickly to the pretty blond blue eyed young vampire. And she wouldn't see that happening if she had anything to do about it. She was the Master's favored and she didn't want his attention to be directed at anyone but her. She would do anything to keep her status in The Court. As for Angelus, he was her childe. She could have him anytime. Angelus knew that was the only reason he and Spike had remained while the women left to London where the Line resided.

The tall vampire had disgustedly watched while William's eyes followed the coach sadly as it disappeared in the distance letting out a lover's heart wrenching sigh. Angelus decided to make the boy forget soon about his 'Destiny'.

He had placed an arm on the shorter man's shoulder and led him inside the mansion smirking. That night and the seven nights after that Angelus made sure William's only thoughts were about him. He made sure the boy knew who he belonged to and made the boy crave him as well. They only left their pleasure when the hunger became too much, they hunted together on the French populace. Those were the best times. Paris would forever remain in their memory, their place.

However, today, Angel knew it wouldn't be far fetched that Spike resented every mention of that country.

Angel sighed. Those thoughts only lead to badness. They were of happy times but nothing ever lasted forever. It lasted quite a number of years, years that weren't close to being enough. Angelus was cursed and driven away by his own sire who couldn't stand to be around his revolting soul. He returned to the fold years after asking, begging, to be allowed to return. Darla relented reluctantly. He had asked her about Spike. She took him to his boy. His boy was a Master then, so young, yet grew so powerful without him. He has just killed himself a Slayer and from the smell of him, celebrated his victory with Drusilla who hung on his arm as if she belonged there. His boy looked happy. Happy to have killed a slayer and of course that he had himself 'a rumple in the haystack' - as Spike would call it - with his lover, his 'Destiny' returned, not happy to see Angelus after two years of parting. He had not acted as if he had missed him. He had spoken to him like they haven't been apart for 18  years.

His thoughts were lingering on taking an even drearier direction if it weren't for the swarm of people entering his office.

"Angel, man, security reports a bunch of vamps entering the building."

Wesley stood next to Gunn with Fred, Cordelia and Lorne flanking the sides. "What manner do you wish us to take, Angel?"

"How about you manly men stake and ask questions later, I always liked that somewhat Buffy-ish approach myself," Cordelia grinned her hundred watt smile and pretended that she didn't make the usual jab at the vampire's ex. Not that she cared about the vampire's feeling. Harmony had filled her in on what had happened between the broody vampire and his childe. She planned to lay it in on her friend the next time she saw him which would be now. However, 'Angel thrashing' had to wait until this vampire situation had been dealt with and then.

Her smile turned evil. Angel who was the only one who noticed the change swallowed uneasily.

"Oh, but what if they were good vampires, like Angel and Spike?" Fred asked worried. She unknowingly cut into the silent confrontation between the two old friends. "M-maybe they have souls too!"

Angel threw his hand to the side as he stood, exasperated. "Sure! But you all remember that I started it!" He walked around the desk trying to look menacing and failing.

Lorne patted his shoulder. "There, there, Angel-cakes. I must say, green? Still not your color."

"Yeah, speaking of people you're jealous of." Cordelia glared unable to hold in her anger. "Harmony told me what you did to Spike!"

Angel chose to ignore the fact that he, a Master of his Line, took a few steps back from the multitude of reprimanding looks cast upon him. He opened his mouth, in a poor attempt in trying to explain, but was strangely saved by the entrance of his bubbly blonde secretary.

"Boss, there's a group of vampires swarmed by *wooden* armed security. and can we talk about my safety here?! I mean I think Wes should do some of flashy witchy stuff on me so I won't get accidentally staked."

"I wouldn't worry about 'accidentally' if I were you," Angel growled out.

Harmony, very unlike the fearful vampire that used to work for him, flung her hair back uncaring.

"Harmony, you were saying about the vampires. who are they?" Wesley encouraged her to talk not wanting to be stuck in the middle of a vampire squabble.

The vampire perked up on the reminder. "Yeah, their Head is SO hot! He has these cool blue gray eyes, reminds me of Spikey but Blondie Bear's are more."

"Harm!!" a collective yell broke her yammering.

"Oh, right. Well they said and I quote." She did the quoting sign. "Order of Hravolen requests an audience with Order of Aurelius."

She shrugged. "But if you ask me, it sure didn't sound anything like a request. was more demanding than."

"Thank you, Harmony, ask the guards to return to their posts and for the 'guests' to come in five minutes." Angel waved her off and returned to his seat wearily. He interlocked his fingers together and looked at his friends.

As expected, Wesley was the first to start. "Do you think it was wise to dismiss the security?"

Angel gave a single nod. "They only want to talk, Wes."

The ex-watcher accepted that having always trusted the vampire's judgment.

"You know them?" Gunn asked from his perch on the arm of the seat.

Angel shook his head. "No. Never personally. But, they're very old. And it looks like their Master is here to chat."

Cordelia scrunched her nose. "Ewww, you mean that vampire Harmony was googly-eyes, yapping over could be as old as The Master! Gross! Is he like all white bat faced?!"

"I'm afraid I'm not that old." All heads turned to look at the voice's owner.

Angel glared at Harmony. "You were supposed to introduce them."

"Well you should've said so," she huffed, turned on her pointy heals and closed the door quietly behind her.

The vampire that spoke was standing surrounded by five vampires perfectly arranged around him. He raised a dark black eyebrow. "It is so hard to find good help in these times." His blue eyes twinkled with mirth.

Cordelia took stalk of the vampire, looking at him from head to the soles of his dress shoes. She admiringly noted the quite expensive and stylish suit in deep charcoal gray with tiny pin stripes that accent his eyes perfectly as well as the matching tie. The shoes were flawless Italian black leather that made the shop-aholic in her want to find a more feminine pair for herself. She, also, didn't miss the way he held himself. He was quite confident of himself, of his power. She had a strong feeling that he didn't need the bodyguards which meant they were only there for show, yet didn't mean that they were to be tampered with.

His hair made her hands itch for the need to run her fingers through the jet-black locks. She didn't know if she ever had seen such blackness to hair. She knew if the band didn't hold it back its thickness would flow over his face. A face that Cordelia had no way to describe but as gorgeous. His built was compact. He wasn't brawny, more built like Spike, but the actress knew the kind of muscle the peroxide vampire kept hidden under his duster, therefore she could guess what was covered by all that Armani. His height, on the other hand, was near Angel's but he held his head higher than her friend ever did even if his alter ego was in charge. And that was saying something!

She nodded satisfied. ~ Guess that rules out Fred's theory of him being all soul having. no guilt weighing him down. Unless he's as good an actor as Bleach Boy. ~

Angel, still sitting in his seat, inclined to his guest to take a seat.

"Just so you know, Wolfram and Hart is under A.I. Co.'s hands and is working for the good side now. Whatever you're offering, we're not taking. For all you know, you're about to say your last words so make them worth it."

The vampire sat down on the offered chair and seemed to be untroubled. He smiled. "If my last word were to be said today my clan will disperse killing everything in sight," he said as it were the most normal thing in the world.

Fred eeped and drew closer to the guys and farther from the vampires.

Her contrast was Cordelia, who even though she was approving of the style department, was still ill at ease with him, placed her hands on her hips and asked, "You better watch who you're threatening Mister-I-know-how-to-pick-up-my-clothes-come-sun-set you don't know who you're talking to."

The vampire quickly stood up from his seat. Gunn and Wesley were ready to pull out their hidden weapons. But the vampire was quicker than them and had been standing in front of Cordelia even faster than Angel's eyes could catch. Hs bent down and elegantly held Cordelia's hand in his. "Oh, but I know you Miss Chase. Your art is inspiring." Delicately he kissed the well-manicured hand. "It's a pleasure," he before straightening swiftly. He nodded charmingly to her and Fred before returning to his seat as if nothing happened.

Cordelia blinked and barely noticed that he had released her hand. She turned her brown eyes towards Angel, a pitying look in them. "You are SO out of you league!"

Angel glared at the seated vampire. That was all he needed, for the new vampire to charm Cordelia to his side. The actress already had it in for the head of Angel Investigation and Company for his treatment towards Spike, now she was going to drive him mad for not being as 'charming' as an *evil vampire*.

"You must be wondering why I have come to you?"

"Well if you get right to it, I don't have to wonder, now do it?"

The vampire scrunched his face in disgust at Angel's vulgar attitude but held his hand up to stop one of his vampire escorts from attacking him.

Angel didn't seem bothered by that and leaned forward. "And another thing bothers me; you've been in my territory for ten minutes and still haven't told us what to call you."

The vampire raised an eyebrow. "I go by the name, Hrafen."

Angel looked to his left from the peripheral vision and was pleased to see the calculating look in Wesley's eyes. He then looked at 'Hrafen'.

"Now that we're more acquainted you can tell me what you're doing here."

"Very well, let's cut to the chase shall we?" He leaned back. "I have sensed an unclaimed. A once claimed vampire with broken ties... over two hundred years had last passed on their claim with out being renewed. In fact, it had been nearly five hundred years since anyone had laid claims and I am here to fill the part." He nodded towards Angel. "By the Ancient Lore I must approach the Head of the clan if then I am not stopped I will fully establish my claim."

The gang turned their heads to look at Angel who furrowed his brow. "I am the Master and head of my order and no claims can be laid on me."

A mere moment of silence before the vampire and his company burst out laughing.

Chuckling with arrogance that came with age and self-confidence he said, "You must be jesting. I do not seek you."

That was when the door opened and Spike entered. All eyes turn towards him and a split second of silence before the baffled party realized what he was talking about, or rather, who.

Spike had been wearing his trademark 'bored face' before he noticed the group. Everyone had expected everything to happen but not what had actually taken place. A large grin found itself on Spike's mouth and with no second to spare, he was sharing a tight hug with their dignified guest.

The vampire pulled back but not too much and laid his palm against Spike's face stroking gently, causing Spike's eyes to close half way and a soft purr to fill the room. That was before it was overpowered by a loud growl. The two pulled back but the vampire's hand felt quite at home on the back of Spike neck, gently playing with the soft hairs there. Spike either did not notice or was too used to it that he didn't show a sign of complain.

"He is the one I seek." He rubbed his thumb over the short back hairs on Spike's neck.

"Raven?" Spike exclaimed wanting to know what was going on.

"A friend of yours, Spike?" Angel asked suspiciously, looking between the two.

"You could say that mate. We met in the turn of the century in Scandinavia... he showed me around, thought me stuff 'bout Lore I didn't know coz. . actually it was around the end of 1900 after." Spike looks at Angel his eyes conveying something before looking away.

"Uh, the translation of the Scandinavian name Hrafen meaning raven," Wesley concluded in a low voice.

"Yes, William here was quite an avid student," Hrafen, or Raven said with a smirk.

"I bet," Angel said snidely. He already knew he didn't like this stuck up vampire, but this was lemon icing on the bitter cake.

"Bugger off, Angelus!" Spike sneered angrily. "Not like you were there to finish your job, now was it?!"

"It's Angel," he stressed ignoring what Spike said or how it made his heart ache to hear the fact spoken aloud.

"Ah, yes, I had heard of that. Such a terrible loss. Your alter ego was becoming somewhat of a folk legend before the ... unfortunate re-souling," Raven said disgustedly.

Angel got an idea. "You know, Spike has a soul of his own. I'm sure that changes your views of him." He had to pat himself on the back for that later.

"Not really. Will's attraction, other than obvious reasons, had been his passion towards life and his utmost humanity. makes anyone around him grasp that sense of living. it's extraordinary. like a potent quickening. His soul is of no consequence, the fact is, it makes him even more unique. "

Or maybe not.

The Master vampire raised his eyebrow. "You must sense it yourself."

Angel huffed. "Don't have any idea what you're talking about. You must be on something when you're around him."

Spike's eyes widened then narrowed angrily. "Guess you were on a lot of stuff back when too," he muttered.

Angel laughed aloud. "You flatter yourself too much, Spike."

Spike started to growl but the rubbing on the back of his head increased causing it to turn into a low purr.

"Dude, what are you doing?" Gunn spoke for the first time since this strange meeting started.

Raven only smirked before dipping towards Spike, his eyes locked challengingly with Angel's. "I'm placing my claim."

That statement brought Spike out of his daze. He turned his shocked eyes towards Angel to his 'friend' and back to looking at Angel. Spike craned his head looking for answers in the brown eyes, any answer, explanation but none were found. Spike's see-through eyes dulled and he nodded his head.

He clicked his tongue. "I see, I get it now, should've known really all along."

The Raven got a wicked smile on his face looking at Angel before it softened as he turned to Spike. "William, Leif, a pleasure as always." Another loving caress, "Soon, beloved." He gazed one last loving look before he left, his men following him after smiling goodbye to Spike.

Silence filled the room. Only four people knew what had just taken place including Spike and Angel and they were Wesley and Lorne. Wesley obviously knew because of his Watcher background and was both interested at what he had just witnessed and worried.

Lorne, on the other hand, was just worried. This wasn't how the story was supposed to end. His two friends were supposed to come to terms about their feelings - well more Angel than Spike - and live happily ever after, which for them was actually possible giving the vampire thing. There was this whole movie idea and everything!

But this, this was wrong and if Angel didn't do anything in the next few moments the best thing that had ever happened in his unlife was going to walk out those very expensive doors. Lorne didn't know if love gods listened to demons but he hoped they listened to the four humans in the room who were unmistakably rooting for the same thing. However, it seemed that the Love Gods either didn't listen to demons nor humans or they didn't even exist. Because Angel raised his head and whatever Spike apparently saw in their depth was not what he wanted and before anyone could intervene and scold the tall vampire the leather clad blond had left the room.

"What are you all looking at me for? There's work to do let's focus on what is important!"

~Part: 7~

Spike was vibrating with anger. How could Angel handle that so calmly? He knew that the older vampire only thought of him as a burden but to give up his claim so easily was unconceivable! It didn't only mean that Angel didn't want anything to do with him but as the head and Master of their order, it meant that Aurelius itself chose to disown him. Over a hundred years he had carried the name and now his own mentor and former lover, his Grandsire, who had been dubbed as his surrogate Sire for as long as he remembered, was discarding him.

Spike couldn't fault Raven, he knew how the other vampire felt about him, how he had always felt. He had never wasted a chance on showing as much to Spike. He actually felt flattered that such a powerful old Master Vampire wanted 'a nobody' like him. He, who his own Sire left time and time again, one of those times leading Spike to meet Raven for the first time. Not to mention, being rejected by his Grandsire and the whole Line. He couldn't understand why he would interest a striking person like him. Maybe he wanted possession of a vampire with a soul, them being a rare commodity. Perhaps not the original but a close enough copy nonetheless, or the closest there could be.

The blond vampire found himself in the underground parking lot and his eyes narrowed as they zeroed in at Angel's beloved Viper. He lit a cigarette with anger vibrating fingers.

~ That'll show the old poof! ~

He was just about to break into the car when he felt a familiar presence. He turned with a swift fighting stance to be rewarded with the sight of two amused gray blue eyes looking at him.

He relaxed his pose though his hand shook as he took a drag from cigarette.

"That's a bad habit, you know."

"What do you want?" Spike asked irately ignoring the statement.

He thought he saw a hurt look pass in the other's eye but it was gone so fast he thought he must have imagined it.

"Why think so little of yourself, William?"

Spike usually cringed when his real name was mentioned; it brought back bad memories of countless rejections, and worse, memories of easier, happier times best forgotten except there were none of those feelings here.

"What're you talking about?!" Spike ever so defensive asked the cigarette bobbing in his mouth with every word.

A smile formed on Raven's lips. "I see you never stopped that habit of talking aloud with yourself when troubled."

Spike blinked, his defenses down. "Oh." He lowered his smoke. The older vampire must have heard him speaking his thoughts.

He didn't even move when the other approached him and even relaxed when a gentle hand started stroking his face.

"I feel I must remind you of how I always felt regarding you. Even before the soul," with that whispered Raven leaned in pressing his soft lips to Spike's. Applying ever so little pressure and with a swipe of cool tongue he was granted entrance with a welcoming groan. Spike found himself responding with fervor falling back to old nearly forgotten habits. His cigarette fell to the concrete floor as his arms brought the other vampire closer.

*Flashback*

1900, somewhere in Scandinavia.

He sensed more than heard the tall figure approach. Long silky arms wrapped around him. He sighed as he leaned back resting his head against the perfectly fitted shoulder. His eyes never wavered from their scrutiny of the starry night. Cricket sounds were everywhere, and he could hear some kind of bird chirping in the midst of this tranquility. It all added to the magic of the foggy night.

"What are you thinking of .?" was softly whispered in his ear. He felt a delicate shiver run through him causing interesting places to react in lovely ways. He didn't need to answer because his addresser knew the answer. "Or should I say whom?"

"Ray." he sighed turning in the strong arms so he could look into the silver colored eyes. A long finger found its place on his lips.

"I know." Lips replaced the finger and a leisurely kiss made them close what little distance they had between them. Their bare chests touched and molded perfectly together. He felt those long fingers thread in his hair. His arms held the dark haired vampire to him. The mouth left his and began to lick and kiss its way to his jaw tracing down his neck. A lick to the back his ear, where he was sensitive, causing him to shudder and his eyes to flutter with a sigh. Soft nips on the expanse of his neck soothed over by a kiss and a lick respectively. He felt tiny prickles like needlepoints that caused him to open his eyes and pull back heaving unnecessary breaths. He held out his hand and watched it shake from being so close.

"No, you know you can't," he whispered under ragged breaths.

Silvery eyes looked at him with an expression he couldn't identify or didn't want to. "He still holds you, William. Why won't you let me free you from him? He wants you no more; his claim holds no value unless you allow it."

Spike's eyes fell saddened but knowing that was true. He smiled a soft bitter smile. "But the claim still holds. And as long as it does, there's hope," he said more to make himself believe than the handsome man in front of him. The handsome man that offered him all he ever desired. Someone who cared for him and saw him as an equal, even though he knew he wasn't worthy of such. Someone who wished to ravish him and cater to him and make every night as pleasurable as the last two weeks were, more if the offer was accepted. And why was he not taking him up on his offer again? Oh, yes. Because he was a fool for love, he was his Angelus' fool. He would hold on to that thin thread of chance that his beloved might wish to keep his claim on him. He willed himself not to think of the very likely possibility that his sire, *grandsire*, had forgotten of the age-old claim.

"Oh, William, if you only accept me. why keep a hold onto old ghosts?" A soft hand caressed his face. He closed his eyes and leaned into it, emitting a low purr as he pressed into the hand seeking more but not daring to ask. Long fingers traced over his features. They passed fleetingly over parted lips, sharp cheekbones and came to rest over the ever-present scar.

"This was for him," was whispered. "For him you risked your life dueling a Slayer, prevailing in an attempt to prove your worth to him, and still my sweet, he did not see you. But I see you," the words vibrated against his lips before they were taken in another adoring kiss. He melted and wished his thoughts away. He heard what his lover said but his heart still longed for his beloved Angelus. The years they had spent together never left him. Always present somewhere in the back of his mind, any small thing could cause him to remember those happy years and long for them. Long for the dark whiskey brown eyes and strong-arms that held him through cold nights in front of a hearth as he was read to by a silky brogue voice. No more than two years ago.

"Raven, make me forget?" Spike asked as his voice choked and he looked up with misty blue eyes pleading for understanding.

A wide grin found itself on Raven's lips. "I could do more than that." He leaned closer breathing into Spike's neck but was gently pushed back. He looked into wounded blue eyes.

Spike shook his head causing a few strands to fall on his face. "Not that way, Ray. I- I couldn't. His claim is the only thing I have of him. I'd know if you wouldn't..." he said in a low tone lowering his face with a sigh. He felt a hand on his forehead brushing away the falling locks lovingly, causing him to look up into understanding eyes.

"I would take what you are willing to give me, Leif."

Spike smiled sadly at the nickname. He allowed the Master vampire pull to him into the luxurious bedroom but made sure to leave the door to the large balcony slightly ajar, allowing the peaceful sounds of the night to drift in.

*End Flashback*

"Never doubt how much I care for you, Beloved. Never. I have waited what seems like forever. and this time I will not let you slip away from me." Raven whispered against Spike's lips. He gave him one last chaste kiss, smiled a smile that promised something, and started to walk away.

Spike was heaving breaths he knew for all reason he shouldn't be doing. He could still feel his lips throbbing from the loss. He didn't miss the words whispered in the night even after their owner was out of sight.

"Wait for me, Lief."

Was it so bad that Spike couldn't wait?

~Part: 8~

"He did what?!"

The three men winched at Cordelia's screech while Fred looked saddened.

"It's like your only family telling you they don't want anything to do with you, like you're not worth them. Who would do something like that?"

Wesley looked down his eyes hooded and face emotionless.

"Angel is such a bastard!" the actress gritted out, eyes narrowing as she planned a payback on Spike's account.

"Isn't there anyway for us to stop it? Legal wise?" Gunn asked, his enhanced lawyer brain - left from when he had the notion that he needed something 'else' to be useful - wanting to find someway to help his new friend.

"It's not that easy, Charlie," Lorne said sipping from his Margarita. "This is nothing solved by the Super Lawyer or anyone outside the Vampire Court. You witnessed two Master Vampires of their order dealing with something that rarely happens, and that no one else can say a word about, let alone have a decision in."

"You mean Spike doesn't have a say in it?" Fred gasped.

Wesley nodded finally out of his dark thoughts. "Yes. Now he doesn't. Perhaps before the claim fully was revoked he could have… and I'm guessing he did. Seeing that they already know each other."

"Yeah, rather too intimately," Gunn commented remembering the way the vampire touched Spike and how the blonde-haired vampire seemed quite accustomed to it.

Fred and Lorne looked at each other sadly. They both knew how much Spike cared for Angel. Lorne from several readings he did to Spike as the blond sang inadvertently in his presence. And Fred because of the many hours she and Spike talked before and after his time as a ghost.

Cordelia opened her mouth, intending another tirade but upon seeing the looks of hopelessness on her friends' faces, she took a deep breath and let it out as she let herself fall on Wesley's couch feeling herself fall in their pit of gloom as well.

After the group had given Angel different kinds of disappointed and deadly glares, they had gathered in Wesley's office where the ex-watcher and Lorne gave them a summary of everything they knew about what had just occurred. Explained that since Angel had spent an unknown number of centuries in Hell that when he returned his claim on Spike… to put it in plain terms, expired.

Wesley silently fingered his summoning book. With new resolve, he picked up the large volume and held it to his mouth. "Hravolen, Raven."

Everyone looked on as Wesley opened the book. White pages stared back at him for a second before words as if they were small spiders began spreading all over the pages. Silence rained in the room as the English man lost himself in the book, his eyes devouring the words searching for something helpful.

Three minutes later…

"Ugh! This is hopeless!" Cordelia jumped up off the couch and smoothed down her expensive yet very stylish outfit. "I, on the other hand, am going to do something productive." On the questioning gaze of her friends, she gave them her all teeth grin. "I'm gonna cheer Spike up!"

Fred took a couple of steps closer interested. "How are you going to do that, Cordy?"

"Gonna take him to try out his suit for the party! And maybe pick out some other stuff. Wanna come with, Fred?"

Fred shrunk back and looked anywhere but at her peppy friend. "Uh, no, I think, Wesley needs my help… right Wes?"

Wesley wasn't paying much attention only hearing the words but not the underlining meaning. "Uh, no, Fred, you can…. Ow! Bloody hell!" The English man rubbed his ankle and glared at Fred.

"Jeez, Fred, You're worse at tact than Giles." Cordelia rolled her eyes at the physicist act. It wasn't like their shopping day ended *that* badly the last time. They'd had a great five hours, checking out every shop and double-checking the shoe stores. If it weren't for that Lynen demon attacking them, they would've went for makeovers later. Cordelia frowned. Now that she thought about it, Fred was too eager to call the guys for demon control, then leaving on the pretence of needing to dissect what was left of the body even though that it required a fire torch to defeat it.

Cordelia glared at Fred who gave her a wobbly smile in return. The seer spared a similar glare to the others before turning on her heels and exiting the office.

Lorne swallowed the drink that he had been holding in his mouth fearing the wrath of Queen C.

"I wonder if one of us needs to cheer Slim later after Princess finishes her way of cheering him up."

Wesley nodded taking a seat to take some weight off his throbbing ankle. "I fear that Cordy isn't the least of Spike's fears. However, Spike loves interacting with people and being the life of the party – would explain why Cordelia asked him over the rest of us- it might do well to distract him for a while."

"Don't go tempting fate, man, that never ends well."

Wesley raised his eyebrows in acknowledgement before burying himself back in the large book.

The remaining three friends exchanged glances knowing that was their friend's way of saying 'let yourselves out… unless you want to help research'. So they did. Each still filled with troubling thoughts about their blond friend and their dark-haired friend-slash-boss, and headed off to their separate jobs.

~Part: 9~

"What's with the sour face, Cupcake?"

Angel sighed. "I really don't have the time for pastry talk, Lorne. I'm busy." He pointed at the papers he was looking at unseeing for an hour to prove his point.

Lorne nodded and sat down in front of the desk. "Well that's nice. So… let's talk." The green demon clasped his hands in front of him and donned his serious face, something seen very rarely. Angel instantly noticed and started to look for exits.

"Talk? About what? Uh, Lorne it'd better not be that modeling job… I told you…"

Lorne waved his hand at him dismissively. "Nah, have Dave for that now. I'm talking about a hard fact pounding here."

Angel sighed relieved and leaned back. "About what? Do you want to open your bar again?"

Lorne had a faraway look on his face. He quickly shook his head to snap out of his reverie. "No… Johnny keeps me grounded… boy does he… uh where was I?" Lorne asked with a lost look on his face.

Angel shook his head amused at the green demon's antics. "You were going to talk about some hard fact if I caught that right."

Lorne straightened up. "Yes, facts and the pounding of them…" he said looking for a way to start.

Angel sighed finally at the end of his rope. "What is it, Lorne? I've got a job to do. What do you want?"

The seer seemed annoyed at the repeated mantra of 'job to do'. That seemed to be enough to get him right to the point, "It's not what I want, Pumkin, it’s what you need," well as close to the point as Lorne was capable of.

The vampire behind the desk crossed his arms and narrowed his eyes not liking where this was going. "And 'what' do I need then?"

Lorne shook his head with a sigh at the defensive manner.

"You know I've heard of 'doth protests too much' but what you've been doing needs a new analogy!" The green forehead creased. "Or is that a metaphor?"

Angel remained silent. The demon leaned forward a concerned look on his face.

"Angel, why are you doing this to Spike AND yourself? At first with the barbs shooting back and forth, it was fun being in the middle of a UST supercharge… but this is pushing it way too far. It doesn't take a seer to see what you guys have for each other, unless you're as repressed as Charlie-boy… and well clearly you if what you've done has a chance of making any sense whatsoever!"

Angel rolled his eyes to the heavens marveling at the fact that he had understood what had been said to him. Sunnydale had been good for something after all. "And here I was worried, expecting that any moment Cordy'd come down on me for being 'too mean'."  He pushed away from the desk to loom over Lorne.

"But you see she doesn't have anything near your delusions. Spike and I have nothing between us but acknowledged hate. If there're two vampires who your imagination had *not* conjured up, it's Spike and that 'Evil Vampire' no one had been doing anything to stop. Except they lack the 'fun' barbs," he snapped.

Lorne remained calm. "Things have been done… research which you missed coz of those *very* interesting papers you've been clearly memorizing. Hrafen … or Raven as Spike called him - a name that really fits his yummy-ness if you ask me - and his clan had been in hiding for several years now. It seems that they had stopped 'making new members' for years… how long and why we can't be sure. Rumor has it that the Clan had been lying wait for something… or someone." He raised an eyebrow at that.

"Oh and yeah, I'm all you're gonna get of our delusional little party… Wes is nose deep in one of his musty books and Freddykins is filling our super lawyer in our shared 'delusion' as we speak… as for your awaited Hollywood Queen, she is indulging in her shop-holic-ness with our very own blue vampire, thanks to *you*, in preparation of the up and coming Holly-party." Lorne stood up and met Angel's eyes actually looming over him with a few inches.

Angel felt as big as those very inches separating them. He wanted to say something… to deny the 'delusional' accusations… that he was *too* busy to notice that his friends had looked up the other source of his sleepless nights. To make some fuss over him being the boss and that they shouldn't question his judgment… particularly concerning Spike, who means nothing to him more than a pain in his ass, that he means nothing to that 'vampire'. However, that seemed useless even in his head, especially when it came to his crew who knew him too well. He opened his mouth, not knowing what to say but knowing that if he didn't say anything, his menacing figure would seem insignificant.

Of course, one could always depend on his own people to aid him in that front.

"Just don't say a word! I usually stay out of these things… not get caught in the cross fire." Lorne reached inside his shiny coat and Angel held himself from flinching away from the imaginary gun he thought was going to be pulled out.

~ That's what I get for not sleeping… and watching those gangster movies ~

"Here." Angel looked at the offered small envelope. "Cordy is taking Spike to this VIP shindig as you know… no one uninvited is allowed and there shouldn't be Paparazzi with in a snap shot range… I should know they hired us for security. Thing is, we got a complementary ticket… I'm thinking you should go, and see where the evening takes you."

Angel blinked and opened his mouth for another try.

"Just… don't… just take it." So much for that try. He looked into pleading red eyes and reluctantly took the envelope. Lorne grinned his white teeth clear against his skin. "Just keep an open mind, talk maybe, you can do that without a hassle in neutral ground… right?"

The vampire took the easy road this time and only nodded.

Lorne nodded back enthusiastically. "Great! Don't forget to dress up!" He turned to leave but stopped when his hand touched the door. Angel held back a whimper of depression that he wiped any evidence of when the red-eyed demon turned to look at him. "Oh, and try not to scare any celebs… in fact try not to talk to any… Cordy told me what happened the last time."

The mouth quickly slammed shut in the same split second it took to open it. Lorne nodded satisfied, "You won't be sorry… you just gotta *see* him," and exited the office, head high.

~Part: 10~

 "C'mon Blondie, chin up! Gotta look pretty," Cordelia practically ordered Spike through one of her sunny grins. The wide smile wasn't directed at the vampire next to her but at several celebrities across the room.

"You know, pet, if you wanna go hang with them starlets you can." Spike raised his eyebrow and returned a forced smile of yet another nameless tall skinny blonde.

Cordelia blinked at him incredulous. "I'm an 'A' rated celeb too, you know. If they want to talk with me *they'll* have to come here." She nodded then discreetly checked her make up, making sure that there wasn't any lipstick on her teeth.

Spike rolled his eyes and sipped his champagne. He grimaced wishing they were serving something stronger… other than the shrimp. He shuddered.

The rising actress was personally invited to a private party that a high-class director had organized, only inviting the famous and most beautiful of people. Singers, actors, writers, directors and producers all well known as well as a few unknown faces most likely the dates/escorts like Spike was. Cordelia didn't doubt that some were millionaires that had a hobby of investing in a new film. She had already spotted two men and one woman though she only was interested in the men. Even though she was now rich herself, she still couldn't let go of old habits. Too bad the man she had her eye on had a wedding ring on, the other wasn't bad, in fact he was more attractive. Unfortunately, he seemed more interested in getting Spike to say a few words to him than her. That was a lost cause right there. Spike seemed to clean up too well.

"Well, why don't you 'lower' yourself to the guy you sobbed over for drowning coz he didn't have enough bleedin' sense to push his bird off a piece of wood and take 'er place."

"Bitter much," Cordelia huffed but still had the happy look firmly placed on her face. She reminded Spike of those annoying stewardesses. Of course, he had never met any since he had never been on a plane. But he did see enough movies to know as much. "You wouldn't know real romance if it bit you on the ass, Spike, literarily in your case!" The brown-haired woman was determined to defend her favorite movie and its hero.

"Leo – I mean Jack sacrificed his life so that the woman he loved could live." She sighed dramatically remembering when she saw the movie the last time… for the 273 time.

Spike smiled bitterly and pretended that the sissy drink he was holding was old aged whisky. He was a romantic. Thing was, he had always placed the person he loved first and then only received frozen emotions in return, if any. It reminded him very much of that kid freezing to the death before sinking alone for eternity. He hated that movie because the lad was lucky; his love was returned, and he was reunited with his love in an afterlife.

~ Corny much?! ~ Spike inwardly flinched at his own words. ~ Bugger I've been around them kids far too long! ~

Spike knew romance! And it never ended that well. The kid was frozen but he was alive inside because his woman loved him in return. Spike was frozen all over. Though in Buffy's case, he burned to a crisp and the 'cold' comfort she gave him while his insides were burning had only made him realize what he could never have.

Cordelia bit her lip as she observed the play of emotions on Spike's face. She shouldn't have opened *those* gates.

She opened her mouth to apologize but instead said, "Oh, there's Cameron and Kate. Maybe they could introduce me to Leo. You stay here… don't want them getting distracted!" And she was off.

Spike barely registered her words. He also didn't notice the anxious look she cast at him as she was walking away. He did notice though when what stood as a poor excuse for a drink in his hand finished the following moment. He deposited the empty glass unconsciously when one of the serving trays passed by. His eyes still cast down in thought.

Another glass was presented to him. Reflexes kicked and he was sipping before he knew what he was doing. His eyes closed in pleasure before they opened and shot up to be greeted by an amused face.

"I take it you like the whiskey?"

Somehow, deep down, even though Spike was too distracted by the strong perfumes as well as his raging emotions to sense him, he wasn't surprised to see the other vampire. He always seemed to find him when he needed him.

"Ray."

"Will, it's always great to see you."

"Well…" Spike blinked and sipped more of his refreshing drink. "I see you're not talking all that stuck up anymore."

Raven shrugged in his elegant suit. "It works well for rousing fear and respect."

Spike rolled his eyes. "Can't believe how you and Angel gave up your accents for Americans."

Raven looked indignant. "I with certainty am not as bad as that!"

The blond scoffed.

Gray eyes narrowed. "What did he do to you now?"

Spike drew back surprised. "Why would you think he…"

"You wavered when you spoke his name. Don't you remember my teachings about knowing a person's thoughts and feelings from their tone of voice?"

Spike had a far away look in his eyes and a smirk found its way on his face. Remembering when he had turned the Scoobies against each other, now that was the fun part of being evil! Those children had been so easy to read. He wouldn't have done it if it weren't for his natural sneakiness and Raven's old lessons.

"Good old memory I presume?" Raven and Spike shared a smile.

"Have I had otherwise with you behind it?" Spike asked grinning before the thought made him somber.

"Is it so bad that memories of our time together cause you sadness?"

Spike hated that he was the reason of the miserable look that fell on Raven's handsome features, even if it were fleeting since his companion was like him in so many ways. He looked down.

"You know it's not you, Ray. It's the parallel with…"

Spike felt his head being lifted by a long finger.

"Did I release you to such misery, Leif?"

"Why do you keep calling me that? I never asked you about it before," Spike whispered chokingly.

Raven tilted his head in a very familiar way. "And pray tell, why is that?"

"Afraid of the answer?" Spike said unsure with a small smile.

"That you are? My leif… my beloved?" Raven stepped even closer and Spike forgot that they were in a room full of people. Not that it mattered. It was Hollywood after all.

"Why…?" Spike's eyes were full of wretchedness.

"They were all blind. Your passion and life shines like fire itself… they fear it and seek it all the same. They pleasured themselves with your warmth but with difficulty pulled themselves away in fear of burning themselves."

A soft hand caressed the angled face.

"But I do not fear the fire… the burn… I endure it for the prize at the end."

Spike's mind eye saw a hand as it sizzled and shook in a stream of sunlight as blue eyes turned from it to gaze into whisky brown seeking approval. He had wanted *his* prize from the beginning.

"You, a creature that is believed to be lifeless and cold, carry the most life in your ways, you burn for it yourself... for what *you* seek. Evil, good, it never matters … you live it all relishing every moment as if it were your last."

Spike pulled his head back, his eyes shut firmly as he shook his head to clear away the feeling of his last moment… still seeking. He coughed taking a deep breath as he opened his eyes to meet worried gray blue eyes.

"See that's it. When I was… with you, I was all-evil. With the killings and the maiming… I don't do that anymore… that's not me anymore. I *seek* different things now."

"You think that would deter me? Silly boy. You are thought a legend across the land. You have proven to the world that you held the choice in your hand and to pass the Trials… a new era of choice had started with what you have achieved, that is more proof of how you reign above all. Yet I was never surprised to hear what you have done. You were always exceptional. Masters live in their time even after it passes, they move with the discoveries in their own pace never relinquishing their hold on their Old Ways. But you, Will, move with the time. You adapt and bond…"

"Which some say is my Achilles Heel."

"Some are fools." Gray eyes flashed for a split second into pure gold. Spike was struck at first. He had known Raven to be the most levelheaded vampire he had ever met. For his anger to flicker even for a moment meant that whatever provoked it was something he felt strongly about.

"I know about you and the slayer…"

"Been keeping tabs on me, have you, mate?" Spike tried to change the subject with humorous words and a smile. Raven, however, didn't fall for the bait.

"…I also know that you had sacrificed your life for her and *your* cause… and I never thought ill of you. It was the path you had chosen… even if it had meant your end…" the last words were softly spoken.

"Hey." Spike laid his hand on Raven's shoulder. "But back I came… nothing can keep me down," he said reassuringly squeezing one last time before pulling back.

Raven smiled. "Ah, but you see if you were a week later we wouldn't be having this lovely conversation."

Spike frowned not liking what that implied. "Meaning?"

"I intended to follow you," the words were stated.

"You, bloody, what?" Spike said between clenched teeth. It seemed that hadn't forgotten about their audience after all.

Raven didn't seem disturbed. "True. I have lived for many a millennia… ruling my clan… seeing the world around me change… nothing new no matter what these humans discover next. It was all meaningless… after your mourning, I had intended to see if the sun had changed after all this time."

"And me being back put a hinder in that jolly plan of yours, mate?" Spike glared.

"It gave me my reason back…" He shrugged. "You choose not to believe me, Will. But this world had become wearisome for me… I care for nothing nor no one in it save you… to have what we once had… to have more..."

Spike didn't know what to say. It wasn't right that his friend lost all reason to live. He couldn't be the reason this beautiful creature who could have anyone he pleased chose to take a rain check on his date with the sun. The thought in itself was ludicrous, Spike's own mentor didn't want anything to do with him, there was no way that Raven would. Therefore, he once again tried to play the soul card. If that wasn't what Raven wanted with him maybe it would be the thing to push him away… find someone more worthy.

"I keep telling you, Ray, I'm a full fledged white hat now. We can't have what we had before… my still shiny yet not so new soul won't let me live with myself if I let you keep killing people on my watch."

Raven grinned and Spike felt that he had lost his trump card. The blond knew he had trapped himself in a corner that his dark-haired companion had built. Spike had forgotten how good Raven was at making plans and executing them in the right time.

~ Something I never had the patience to do… bugger. Guess I'm in for a long one. ~

Raven pulled Spike to the side after placing their drinks somewhere. Spike didn't know where, he was too worried about what Raven was about to tell him. The other vampire knew him well, even with the soul, it seemed. Not that he had changed much with it… except with the blood lust. He was anxious about what he was going to hear… he knew it would be something to tempt him even more to the easy loved life with Raven and away from his long wait for Angel to wise up.

Spike snapped out of it when he felt long fingers trace his Claim.

"If you allow me to make you mine, my mate. My clan, yours as well then, would be sure to follow your every command. It's the human world we live in today, them and their changes. Such as it had been for centuries, even before my time. Yet, slayers now walk among them all. Thousands upon thousands. We need to learn how to live in peace with them, who they know and trust to make a treaty with them, however; at the same time, we need someone to guide us. You were always more human than any mortal that I have met and with a soul you grew even more unique."

The hand continued to stroke affectionately and the intense eyes bored into Spike so much that he thought the other vampire could see his soul. See him.

"I would always want you regardless, you know that Leif. Always have since we crossed paths that nigh after *she* deserted you. You know how highly I value you… but here you are presented with a chance to help many… Of your kind and the innocent you now protect. I, and my fellow elders, am willing and capable of renouncing killing for food… unless necessary. For years, new turnings were brought to a halt for that reason. A new age has arisen even before the Time of the Slayers. We are in need to learn how to adapt. But vampires and slayers don't mix…"

Opposite eyebrows were mirrored rising up.

"Or that's what goes for the majority." They shared a smirk. "You have friends and others who are willing to trust you…you can make it better. And if that means that you would be with me then *alas* I have to suffer your most pleasurable presence."

Spike looked shocked at the long astonishing revelation and opened his mouth wanting to reply.

"Ray Van!"

Spike raised an eyebrow at that and didn't bother to hide his widened smirk. A middle-aged woman covered with diamonds and a wide smile approached them.

Raven donned a patient smile and turned to the woman.

"Ah, madam, it is always a pleasure." He bent and kissed her offered hand. He hid a wince when she giggled.

The woman waved her hand at him dramatically. "You, Mister Van, are always a charmer." Her eyes looked behind him and Spike felt self-conscious as her eyes raked up and down his body.

"Oh, and who's your *lovely* friend here." She grinned in what she thought seemed enticingly. Spike wished for his drink back.

Her eyes widened as she saw Raven pull Spike closer to him, his arm around the younger man's waist.

"This is Will," he introduced and Spike gave her a small shaky smile. "Will, this is our host's lovely wife."

She blinked a few times before she clapped her hands. "Oh, you two are so lovely together! You know, I'm thinking of hosting a charity fund for your people!"

Spike mouthed to Raven, "'Your people'?"

Raven whispered in his ear, "I think she means gay people, 'Spike'. You know because of your hair."

Spike scoffed. "We're really off our high horse aren't we, pet. And your pony tail is oh so manly?"

Rich Clueless Bint, as Spike had dubbed her, only caught one thing. "Oh, my, you're British! Johnny's British!"

"Johnny?" Spike asked confused.

The woman huffed. "Johnny Depp, silly." She waved at a corner and Spike smiled when brown sympathetic eyes looked at him and waved bored at the too cheerful woman.

Raven frowned. "Isn't he American?"

Spike nodded. "Though I'm sure the bloke has mick blood in 'im."

"What?"

"Nothing," the two vampires said in unison. Both of their eyes tinkled amused as they saw the previous figure slink away out of the woman's sight taking his chance to escape with her being distracted.

She frowned and opened her mouth to say something else but Raven interrupted her. "Dear." He pulled reluctantly from Spike's willing body and led her away. "I need you to do me a favor…"

Spike tried to strain his ears to hear what was being said but the noise in the room - not to mention the singer and the orchestra - was too loud. It didn't really matter since Raven was back in no time and had his arm back around Spike.

Spike smirked. "Comfortable, luv?"

Raven grinned back.

Spike opened his mouth and yet again he couldn't say anything this time because the music and the singer changed. A man's voice could be heard from the speakers. From the look in Raven's eyes Spike figured out what he had asked their hostess.

//I, saw you with that look in your eyes
Did he come back to make you cry
I am the one to set you free
I need you love you so desperately//

Spike knew what Raven wanted to say. He wanted to tell him that he had released him years before so he could look after Drusilla after she became tired of yet another of her disgusting demon lovers. Spike had loved Dru. She had been his sire… his salvation… the last connection he had to Angelus. Angel came back and he felt hope once more, perhaps with the soul he could… but no. He only hurt him… somehow even more. All he did for his dark beloved… he tried to prove himself to him time and time again. He had become friends with his own. But that only made Angel resent Spike even more. The blonde-haired vampire figured that he would never do anything right… for anyone he loved… especially Angelus… Angel. However, he somehow did something right with Raven.

//Baby I just need you to take a leap of faith
Every promise I make I’ll never break
Let me take your hands, I’ll lead the way
I'll wait forever, baby//

He had waited a hundred years. He would wait forever. He needed Spike to trust his feelings for him. Raven clutched Spike's hand in his and led him out to the terrace. The singer's voice could still be heard from the outside.

The hostess approached Cordelia looking around confused. "Were did those two lovely boys go? I wanted to ask their opinion about decorating the pool house."

The actress ignored her disdainfully as her eyes followed the departing two from inside, gnawing at her lower lip. She was at a loss for what to do. Should she stop them?

It was better to allow things to take their own course. Hopefully, the Powers would do the right thing. For once!

~ Oh, There's Leo! ~ Cordelia started walking away, her movement showing how sure she was of her looks. She frowned. ~ Is that Johnny Depp hiding behind him? ~

The night outside was peaceful. Spike couldn't help but take a breath of fresh air into his dead lungs.

"I had to come and try. You knew that this day would come. And the look I saw in your eyes when you entered the room… it made me sure of my decision. He hurt you again Leif. You thought he had returned to you… you chose the same path as he and yet he harmed you again. I wish to free you from him."

//Until the stars come crashing down
Until the moon no longer shines
That's how long I'll wait for you
That's how long I'll wait for you
You are the meaning to my life
And until the end of time
That's how long I'll wait for you
That's how long I'll wait for you//

"Remember the moon that last night? I never truly lived until I met you and when you left me I began to die."

Spike only smiled sadly. He wasn't the only romantic. The moon not only resembled it but the sounds of the night as well, if one would overlook the music drifting out from inside.

//Don’t be afraid to get too close
I’m gonna love you like you’ve never known//

Spike didn't move when he felt arms circling his waist. He leaned back and closed his eyes. Was it so wrong to allow himself to be loved?

//Open your heart and come with me
I need you, want you, can’t you see?//

How strange was it that in Spike's mind those words the singer was so passionately speaking could perfectly describe what he wanted to tell Angel. However, here was Raven laying his head against his, begging for the same.

//Baby I just need you to take a leap of faith
Every promise I make I’ll never break
Let me take your hands, I’ll lead the way
I'll wait forever, baby
Until the stars come crashing down
Until the moon no longer shines
That's how long I'll wait for you
That's how long I'll wait for you
You are the meaning to my life
And until the end of time
That's how long I'll wait for you
That's how long I'll wait for you//

"I never forgot you."

//And if we are oceans apart
You will always be here in my heart
And I’ll always wait for you
I’ll always wait for you//

"I never gave up hope."

//Until the stars come crashing down
Until the moon no longer shines
That's how long I'll wait for you
That's how long I'll wait for you
You are the meaning to my life
And until the end of time
That's how long I'll wait for you
That's how long I'll wait for you//

 "Don't need to wait no more."

For once it wasn't Raven that spoke. Spike turned to look into the gray hopeful eyes. He smiled and leaned in. He had made a decision. Their lips met.

//Till the stars come crashing down
Till the moon no longer shines
That's how long I'll wait for you
That's how long I'll wait for you
You are the meaning to my life
And until the end of time
That's how long I'll wait for you
That's how long I'll wait for you//

Dark eyes boreinto the passionately embracing two. The soft moon rays illuminated the sad features. Angel melted into the shadows once more.

//David Charvet's Leap Of Faith.// Okay so I never intended to put a song in this but I was having a writers block while writing A Place To Belong and I always found that music helps… so I picked this song to listen to. And instead of giving me ideas to write for APTB it gave me for Splinter *smiles sheepishly at Farah* don't you think that it was just perfect for Raven?!

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