Disclaimer: Joss owns them all...I merely play with them
Distribution: Kiss or Kill http://www.qwikpages.com/surfcity/kissorkill/index2.html Anyone else, just ask
Rating: R
Feedback is like oxygen. I must have it to survive
NOTES: Something new. Set after my version of Season 4. Faith came back but didn't go to LA. Other than that, some thing changed. OH, Willow never lived at the dorms. She stayed at home. Let me know what you think.......
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~Part: 1~
Buffy glared at the brunette slayer before turning to Willow. "Tell her she's wrong."
Willow sighed, "She's not wrong. Faith is right."
"Ha!" Faith said, sticking her tongue out at the blonde bimbo.
"Very mature" Spike mutterred, glaring at both of the slayers.
Willow rolled her eyes, putting her head between her knees. It had been this way for months. First, Spike had been implanted then escaped. He had been adopted almost by them, somehow ending up living in one of her spare rooms. Then, a few months later, Faith had woken up. She had come back, raising hell but eventually redeeming herself by saving some people. She had been trying hard to regain a position with them. She too had somehow ended up staying with Willow. Since Buffy and the others pretty much hated both Spike and Faith, for different reasons of course, Willow was often caught in the middle between her two new friends and her older friends. She frowned wondering if she could consider Spike a friend. He usually only glared and threatened them. Well, she thought of him as a friend so that was all that mattered. But, it meant she was the mediator every single research session. It had been growing increasingly annoying since school got out and the gang was often together more often. "Spike, quit antagonizing Faith. Buffy, Faith was right. Get over it."
"I am not provoking that brunette bitch into anything" Spike defended, glaring at the girl in question.
Faith shot him a triumphant grin. Willow had gotten after the blonde. Take that, dead boy. "How mature is that, Fang?"
"Faith" Willow warned, looking up and glaring at them both. She knew they were enemies. Hell, it was expected. Faith was a slayer after all and Spike was a vampire. But, they took it to a new level. They never resisted the urge to needle the other or try to make her choose one side or the other. It was just getting worse along with everything else. "Both of you behave."
"Damn Wills. How do you stand it?" Xander asked, sharing an amused look with Anya. He and his fiance had figured out Spike's feelings for Willow months ago and were just waiting for the oblivious redhead to guess them. Anya was the one that had noticed Faith's feelings. Again, Willow had no idea that she was the reason Faith and Spike hated each other. They were both in love with her.
"Listen here, Chubs. I can hire someone to kill you" Spike threatened.
"I'll take your money, Blondie" Faith said, glaring daggers at Xander's smug face.
"He is not fat!" Anya said, exasperated. "Willow, control them."
Willow looked up, a determined look on her face. "Uh oh...." Buffy said, looking at Riley and frowning. "I don't like that look."
"That's it. I have to get out of here." Willow said.
"I'll walk you" Faith and Spike but offered, glaring at each other.
"I mean, out of Sunnydale" Willow said. "I've been thinking about it for the last week...Hell, I already spoke to my parents. I'm leaving Sunnydale for the summer."
"Like hell you are" Spike said, his attention focused on her. "With who?" he shot Faith a glare.
"Alone" Willow said, stressing the word. "Nice peace and quiet....just me and the radio and the road."
"How? You don't drive" Faith said, casting a slightly worried look at Spike.
"I do too" Willow said, glaring at her friend. "I just choose not to. My mom gave me her Explorer. She's only driven it like five times in two years so it's practically new. She already knows I'm taking it."
"Driving? A car that's set for two years?" Spike demanded, glancing at Buffy and the others. "Aren't you going to talk some sense into her?"
Buffy just smiled, "Willow knows what she's doing. I can't change her mind. Besides, it would definitely beat living with either of you two."
"So, Wills. Where you going?"
Willow looked at Xander. "I dunno. Anywhere.....everywhere. I think I'll just get in the car and drive. No planning."
Spike sat and thought as Willow continued to talk to the silly humans about her trip. He wasn't worried about missing her. No. He didn't even like her. Nope. Not at all. He was just concerned that she might get hurt. She was the only one that was nice to him. Without her, the damn bitchy slayer or the bimbo either one would kill him first chance. He suddenly smiled. He had an idea. "Red, let me get that car checked out and fixed up before you leave. I don't want you driving it who knows where without a looksee."
Willow looked at Spike surprised. "Thank you Spike. That would be great. I probably won't leave until Friday morning so you can take it anytime before that."
Faith glared at Spike, not believing he was taking this so easy. He had to know as soon as Willow left, both of them would be in open season for Bitchy and the others. She couldn't believe Willow was just going to leave them. She had a sudden thought and smiled. It could work. Maybe. Was worth a shot. "Will, let me know if you need help packing. Ok?"
Willow smiled at Faith, relieved that her two roomies were taking the news of her leaving so well. She had been worried about mentioning anything, almost talking herself out of even going several dozen times. But, she couldn't put up with a summer of constant bickering and arguing. She only hoped that Buffy didn't stake Spike while she was gone. She settled back down, her mind wandering over the many possibilities of where she could go. Anywhere.
~Part: 2~
Spike took the keys from Willow. "I'll make sure they check everything. If you leave your bags downstairs, I'll load it when I get home."
Willow nodded, "Thank you Spike. Will you be awake when I leave tomorrow?"
"No. I plan on staying away for a bit" Spike said, noticing the flicker of disappointment in her eyes. "I'll get the car fixed up for you though."
"Ok.....thanks" Willow said, sighing. She wanted to hug him but knew he'd probably bite her. Thinking of him biting her produced a slow heat in her stomach. She turned away, "I'll miss you."
"Yeah, whatever" he said, "Just leave your bags downstairs and I'll take care of it all."
"Fine." Willow said, wondering why he was being so abrubt. "I'll see you in a couple of months."
"Be careful" were his last words before walking out.
"Well, he's a prick" Faith said. She looked at Willow and saw the sad look in her green eyes. She felt like staking Spike for making the redhead upset. "Come on, Red. I'll help you pack."
"Ok" Willow said. She headed up the stairs and went to her closet. Faith followed her inside and sat on the bed.
"So, you're taking some blankets and an ice chest aren't you?" Faith asked, watching Willow look at her clothes.
Willow glanced at her, "No...I hadn't planned to. Why?"
"You should. I mean, what if something happened and you got stranded? You don't even know where you are going so it would be smart to take some just in case." Faith said. She watched as Willow thought over her idea and smiled when the redhead nodded.
"You're right. There is plenty of room and it's better safe than sorry. Thanks" Willow smiled at her friend, glad that she wasn't walking around pouting like Spike was. She went to the linen closet and found an old blanket. She brought it in and set it by her bed. "There. I'll add one of my pillows before I go to sleep. I think we have an ice chest in the garage. Remind me to look."
"I will" Faith said, knowing the blanket that Willow had picked wouldn't be enough. She went to the closet and picked out another one. She added it the blanket by the bed and saw that Willow hadn't noticed. Sitting back down, she began to hum, listening to Willow chatter about the different places she hoped to visit.
~Part: 3~
Willow looked around the dark room and frowned. Great. She was leaving and both Faith and Spike had disappeared. She knew this was some childish attempt to get back at her for leaving them, even for a few months. She sighed, wondering again if this was the right decision. She loved the idea of getting away from the petty arguing but she had never been away by herself. What if Faith was right and something did happen? She'd be stranded somewhere....she shook her head. Faith had been trying to scare her to get her to stay in Sunnydale. She grabbed her purse and walked down the stairs. Taking one last look at her house, she left headed for her car.
She glanced in as she sat down and noticed the blankets in the back. She had to chuckle. Faith was so worried she'd get stuck somewhere that the brunette must have put in a few extra blankets and pillows. She saw the cooler she had found in the garage. Her luggage was also neatly placed on the back seat. Spike had done as he had said. She sighed softly, wishing that they had been around to see her off. She knew she'd miss them both terribly. They had somehow become her best friends over the last few months and she couldn't imagine not seeing them for months. She put the Explorer in reverse and left the house.
**********
She was a few hours North of Sunnydale when she stopped for gas. She got a soda and a few various items of food before getting back in the car. She had no idea where she was, but it felt great to be there. But, it was quiet. Too quiet. She took off from the station and tossed her bag of goodies on the back seat. She squealed when she heard a curse. She drove off the road and stopped on the shoulder, staring over the back seat. She saw a blonde head emerge from underneath the pile of blankets in the back seat. "SPIKE!"
He grinned at her sheepishly, "Ello, luv. What the hell did you buy?"
She stared at him in confusion. "What the hell are you doing in my back seat? God, you planned this didn't you? Fuck, I'm an idiot. That explains the dark tinting you had done. And here I stupidly believed that it was to keep the car cool and for me to not get sunburned. Why?"
He glared at her, sitting on the seat. "Did you really think I'd let you wander off alone? You have no idea the dangers out there for a beautiful girl travelling alone."
"I can take care of myself!" She said, stopping and smiling, "You think I'm beautiful?"
There was a snort from the far trunk area. A brunette head looked up. "Damn Red. You know you're gorgeous."
"Faith? Did you two have this planned?" Willow demanded, glaring at them both as the traffic continued to pass by them.
"No" two voices shouted as the two glared at each other.
"It was mine first" Spike said. "The damn bitch showed up early this morning, sneaking into the back. She threatened to tell you if I didn't let her come. Silly twit."
"It was mine. That's why I wanted the blankets" Faith said, chewing her bottom lip at the anger in Willow's eyes. "Come on Red. We couldn't stay in Sunnydale..not without you. Bitchy would have killed us. Besides, Blondie is right. There is a lot of danger awaiting young girls out alone. We have to protect you. That's what friends are for."
Willow wanted to yell and scream but they both looked so sincere. And she was actually in a way glad to have some company. She sighed, "I'm not happy about this. In fact, I'm really pissed at both of you right now...for lying and deceiving me."
"We love you Red" Spike said, looking out the window.
"Yeah...we'd be lost without you" Faith added, doing her best effort at puppy dog eyes.
"I won't make you go back, but there are some rules." Willow said, seeing them look at her and smile. "First, no fighting between you two. I wanted to get away from all that. Second, we go where I want and stop when I want to. No arguing. Damn, how can I afford all three of us?"
Spike smiled, handing her a credit card and a wad of cash. "Here you are pet. My contribution" he said, stressing the word my.
Willow looked at the credit card, running her fingers over the name on it. "I didn't know your last name was Forsythe. William Forsythe. I like it."
"Call me Spike, pet. William is dead and gone. That should be enough to cover me and the pest."
Faith smiled, "I have to thank you, Blondie."
"Awe...I'm touched" Spike said, rolling his eyes. He saw Willow's look and shrugged, "Bad habits are hard to break."
Willow had to laugh. "Faith get on up front. We'll get this journey underway."
Faith smiled as she climbed into the front seat. She started to ask question about where they were going as Spike moved to lean over the middle, adding his own questions and comments. Willow smiled as she got back onto the road and headed north.
~Part: 4~
Willow listened as Faith and Spike argued about which radio station they should play. Spike wanted the classic rock station that they had been picking up for the last few miles while Faith wanted the alternative rock station. She sighed in contentment as they continued to argue. She was glad in a way that they had followed her. She hated to admit it, but even after only a couple of hours, she had missed them both. They had spent so much time together these past months that it was impossible to think of life without either of them. She moved forward from the back seat and pressed the radio button. Soon, the sound of the Drifters filled the car. "I'll settle this one. Oldies."
Spike glared at Faith from where he was driving before smiling slightly as Willow began to sing along softly to the music. He settled back in his place, letting the music take him back in time. He never would have imagined then that he would one day riding in a car with a human and a slayer. Hell, that he would be in love with the human and almost friends with the slayer. He would have killed anyone that dare suggest such a weakness. It demonstrated to him how much he had changed since those days. He hated the implant and knew one day he would do whatever it took to get it removed, but he also loved it. It had led him to Willow and he would not take that away from his life for anything. Even if he did have to share her with the damn slayer. At least Faith was better than Bitchy. He hated the blonde with a passion. His one time grudging respect of her had faded over time. Now, he just hated her. She treated her friends like shit and used them terribly. Of course, she was also a selfish slut that thought the world should revolve around her. Definitely not on his list of humans not to kill when the implant was removed. His fingers began to beat on the steering wheel as a loud Buddy Holly song on. He listened amused as Willow began to sing loudly, urging them to join in. When he heard Faith's husky voice, he began to sing a bit too.
Faith crawled over the seat, moving into the back with Willow. She began to sing louder as the redhead urged them along. She loved this old music. When she had been growing up, there had been an old woman down the hall from their place that listened to all this stuff. When Faith's mom would stay out all night with a new boyfriend, Faith would often find herself in Miss Crendall's apartment singing and dancing to these songs. Faith had hated when the old woman had died the summer she had turned eight. Miss Crendall had left her all of her old albums though and she had continued letting those songs take her away to a peaceful place even after the council had taken her before her tenth birthday. She couldn't believe it when she heard Spike's voice join in. It was funny how far they were both willing to go for Willow. She knew they both loved the redhead. Had accepted that and moved on. She also knew that WIllow loved them both, even if she didn't realize it. It was that reason that Faith had given up the fight. She knew in this situation that if she pushed, there would be no winners. Someone would lose Red and that would hurt the girl. She would never do anything to hurt Willow. So, she put up with Spike. He wasn't that bad for a vampire. Besides, he loved Willow so he had good taste.
Willow smiled as they both sang along with the Temptations song that came on. She moved over the seat, sitting beside Spike as Faith lounged across the back seat. She hummed along, glad that she had decided to take this trip away from Sunnydale. And also glad that the people she loved had insisted on coming. It made things much more fun. She leaned against the window, her eyes watching the passing scenery as they all continued to sing. She wondered where they were going before stopping herself. She didn't care really. As long as she had them, she knew she was home.
~Part: 5~
Willow got out of the Explorer and stretched, glad to not be driving for a short time. She heard the doors open and close as Spike and Faith followed her. She yawned, looking towards her two friends. "So, ready to stop?"
"Yes" Faith said, glancing at her watch. "It's late enough."
"Up to you, pet" Spike said, watching the flash of bare skin as Willow's shirt rode up. He turned away, trying to keep himself from reacting. "This is good as any."
"Cool" Willow said, heading to the office of the motel. "You guys coming?"
Faith and Spike headed after her, blinking as they walked into the lobby. It was bright in the small office compared to the darkness of the night. They moved to either side of Willow, watching her talk to the desk clerk.
"I need a double, two beds." Willow said, glancing at Faith, "You and I can share, ok?"
"No" Spike said a little louder than he'd intended. He saw the clerk look at him suspiciously and turned his attention to a surprised Willow and smug Faith. "You can have the other bed. I like to sleep on the floor....better for my back."
Willow's eyes narrowed as she stared at him, "You have the comfiest bed at home. Why did you insist on it if you sleep on the floor?"
Faith leaned against the counter, wondering how Spike would weasel his way out of this one, but knowing that he'd managed it somehow. "Yeah, Blondie. When did you start sleeping on the floor?"
"Stay out of this" Spike hissed at her, catching the clerk staring. "We want two beds."
"Yes sir" the clerk said, looking through the computer and assigning the strange threesome a room. "Smoking or non?"
"Smoking" Spike said, looking at Willow and seeing her still watching him. "Fine. I don't always like sleeping on the floor, but after spending the whole fucking day in the car, I want to sleep on the floor."
"Whatever" Willow said, rolling her eyes. She wasn't sure what he was doing, but if he wanted to sleep on the floor, she'd let him. She had rather have the bed to herself anyway.
"Do you have something downstairs?" Faith asked the clerk. "I hate climbing up the stairs....."
"Yes Ma'am. Room 135. Smoking, double bed. Would you like a wake up call in the morning?"
"We'll wake up" Willow said, smiling an apologetic smile at the woman. "Thank you."
"Check out time is 11 am. We have a continental breakfast in the lobby from 6 am until 9. If you need anything, just press 0 on the phone." the clerk said, watching them leave. The people she met at this job......
~Part: 6~
Willow laid on the bed, wishing she could sleep. They had been at the motel for two hours so far. Faith had crashed after showering, her breathing slow but steady. Spike was laying on the floor at the foot of the bed. She couldn't understand why he had been so adamant in his refusal to sleep in the bed while she shared with Faith. Sometimes he just really confused her. She could never really figure him out. In many ways she knew that was good, but in others it was damn annoying.
She shifted on the bed, wondering if he was sleeping. She moved to her knees, crawling down the bed and peering over the edge at his still form. She let her eyes wander over what she could see of him in the pale light from the street lights outside. He was so gorgeous. She had thought Angel was the most amazing looking guy she'd seen until she saw Spike. Even when he was trying to kill them she had been drawn to him. Of course, she had kept that little tidbit a secret from her friends. She could just imagine those reactions. She leaned over the edge of the bed, brushing her lips against his. She pulled back, thankful that he was asleep. She couldn't believe she had just kissed him. She turned red as she laid down, pulling the covers over her head.
Spike's eyes shot open as soon as she pulled back. He brought his fingers up to his mouth, running them over where her lips had been. He heard her heart racing and knew she had acted without thinking. She had kissed him. Sure, it wasn't anything like the sort of kisses he wanted from her, but it was a good start. She had actually made the first move. He grinned at that. His smile faded slightly as he remembered that she thought he was asleep. She was still so scared of her feelings. He sighed softly, waiting patiently for her to fall asleep. He was glad that she had relented and allowed him to sleep on the floor. He was playing a hunch, but he hoped it worked. When he finally heard her breathing become steady, he sat up. He moved to the bed, laying beside her on the top of the covers. She shifted in her sleep, her arm instinctively going around his chest. He smiled as she moved her head to his shoulder, her hair brushing against his cheek. He closed his eyes, knowing that sleeping would be no problem now.
"Not fair, Fang" Faith said, her tone amused. She had figured out Spike's game but decided to let him try it. She had seen Willow lean over and knew she must have kissed the blonde vampire. She felt a rush of jealousy, but this was only the first night.
"Round one is mine, slayer" Spike said, laughing softly.
"Yeah, yeah, yeah...Whatever. Tomorrow is another day, Vampire." Faith said, listening as he laughed at her challenge. "This is just the beginning."
~Part: 7~
Faith sat in the chair, her eyes on Spike and Willow. She smiled at the vampire's nerve. First, tagging along as if it had been his idea. Now, sneaking his way into Willow's bed. She had to laugh softly as she imagined Willow's reaction to waking up in bed with the handsome blonde that she had been crushing on for months. Faith may be in love with the girl, but she knew that Willow had thing for Spike. It was rather obvious to her, maybe because she was so in love with Willow herself. She saw the covers move as a slim pale arm sailed through the air. She watched it collide with Spike's nose and snorted as the blonde sat up with a loud curse.
"Fuck" Spike hissed, holding his nose.
Willow shrieked as she sat up, glaring at Spike. "What the hell are you doing in bed with me?"
He glared at her, "Getting beat, it would seem."
"Serves you right, Fang" Faith shot from her chair. She was rewarded by a deadly look from him and just laughed.
"I'm sorry" Willow said, frowning as she saw the blood from her hit. "But, why were you in my bed?"
Spike sighed, having hoped his wound would prevent her from being so damn inquisitive. He should have known better. She was too nosy for her own good. "I got cold."
"You're dead" she said flatly. "You don't get cold."
"Details" he scoffed, "I was cold. Plus, the flood was hard."
"Oh really?" she said, staring at him steadily. "And here I thought you loved sleeping on the floor....Your back and all."
Spike glared at the laughing slayer and looked back into Willow's unforgiving eyes. "Luv, I was cold. You were laying in this big bed all by yourself giving off this intoxicating warmth. I couldn't resist crawling into bed with you."
Faith groaned, "Bad answer, Fang...."
"So, you're saying this is my fault?" she demanded, her irritation making her eyes sparkle as her hair billowed around her face. She resembled a fiery angel, he realized. Or a fiery temptress, he ammended catching sight of her tank top and boxers. "I was warm so you couldn't resist?"
"Blimey" he cursed, glaring at the girls. "I'm taking a shower."
"Make sure its warm!" Willow shot at his back, seeing him stiffen but continue into the bathroom. She looked at Faith and narrowed her eyes. "And what is so funny, missy?"
"You and Spike" Faith said, rolling her eyes. "You two are so hot for each other it's pathetic."
"What? We are not.....we're just friends, if that" Willow said, glancing at the bathroom door and blushing slightly. "Tonight, I'm sleeping with you. He can have his own bed."
Faith smiled in satisfaction. "Round two is mine, Fang" she said softly, adding a bit louder, "Whatever, Red. I can share."
~Part: 8~
Willow turned the radio up as Hot Stuff began to play. She began to sing, smiling when Faith joined in. "Looking for some hot stuff...."
"Where are my earplugs when I need them?" Spike called out, grinning as Willow stuck her tongue out at him, not missing the beat.
"You wouldn't know good singing if it hit you on the head" Faith said, rolling her eyes.
"Yeah, this is real music. Not like that crap you were playing earlier."
"The Sex Pistols were not crap" he said through clenched teeth, glaring at Willow.
"Crap" she sang out, smiling at him.
"This shit you call music? Disco died a painful death" he reminded her, reaching to turn the radio off.
"Hey, this is my car!" Willow said, smacking his hand. "What I like stays."
"I'm bigger" he said, smirking as he pushed the settings button.
"But not faster" Faith said, hitting it back to the station playing 'all your disco hits'. "Slayer speeds always wins, Fang."
Spike snorted, swatting the button back to the Doors that were playing on the 'all your classic favorites from the sixties and seventies' station. "Try again, bimbo."
Willow glanced at Faith and smiled in the rearview mirror. She crawled over the seat and sat on Spike, her hands holding his down as Faith turned the station back on the ending strands of Hot Stuff and the beginnings of...."Oh my god!!! It's YMCA!"
"I fucking love this song" Faith said, laughing as Willow began to sing, her hands and body holding Spike into place as he began to gag and groan. Her smile died as she realized that Willow was sitting on Spike's lap. He continued to gripe about the song but she noticed his attention settling on the back of Willow's neck as the redhead's cute bottom moved to the music. She caught his cocky grin and rolled her eyes, wondering if Willow would be greatly upset if she accidentally lowered the windows. Of course, getting ash out of the seat would be quite a task. She caught him leaning forward and brushing his nose against Willow's hair and glared. She could always buy a dustbuster. They were pretty cheap. A sign caught her eye and she smiled suddenly, "Hey Willow. Look!"
Willow quit singing long enough to follow the slayer's finger. "Wow. A scenic view point. Let's go. I need some pictures."
The slayer pulled off the road, stopping the car. She opened her door, stepping onto the pavement and grinning triumphantly as Willow slid off Spike's lap and into the sunlight, leaving the grimacing vampire all alone in the Explorer.
"This round is mine, Fang."
"Fuck you" he hissed, glaring as the girls began to take pictures and chatter as they walked to the viewpoint, leaving him to sit. Alone.
~Part: 9~
Faith stretched as she stepped from the car. She glanced at the half moon, searching her pocket for her last Marlboro. She had never been much of a smoker before, and still didn't smoke unless she was really stressed. But, this was only the second full day of the trip and she was beginning to wish she had brought a carton. She watched Willow wander into the truck stop, intent on finding gifts for everyone back home. She lit her cigarette, looking up as Spike came to stand beside her, his own cigarette already lit and half gone. "Having fun?"
Spike glared at the bitch, not missing her intention to remind him of just how often she had had to stop that day for scenic views. Stupid chit, having to remind him that she got Willow during the sunlight while he was forced to remain in the car. "Loads. Can't you tell?"
"Thought so" she shot back, leaning against the building and looking at the pasture that lay beside the store. "I'll be having fun tonight."
Spike snorted, "Yeah, in your dreams."
"Hey, don't you remember? I get her tonight....and I don't have to sneak into her bed." Faith said, blowing smoke at him.
He smirked, "I think I'm sleeping in the car tonight. Sorry, pet. You get a nice empty bed, again."
Faith straightened, glaring at him, "That's no fair. You got a chance last night. Is it my fault you didn't try anything?"
"Like you would?" he answered, laughing.
Faith frowned, "Well, I might."
"Yeah, just like I would....scare the girl to death, you would" he said, shaking his head and grimacing. "Same as me."
Faith sighed, knowing he was right. She wanted Willow, but she couldn't risk losing her. "I hate being like you. But, you're the lucky one. She wants you."
Spike raised an eyebrow, shrugging, "She may want me, but does she want me? See, that's the problem. I can want her but unless she actually wants me, it's in vain."
Faith rolled her eyes, saying, "That made no sense what so ever. She wants you....likes you. I don't know why you're so scared to make a move. If she looked at me the way she looks at you, well....I wouldn't be standing here talking to you."
"Difference between looking and accepting" he pointed out, lighting another Marlboro. "Does she want me enough to deal with Slutty and the others? Or is just a silly school girl crush? And why the fuck am I discussing this with you?"
"Cause I understand" she said matter of factly. "I'm in love with her too. Of course, my chances are minimal. Doesn't mean I won't give you a fight, Fang. I'll go down fighting for a chance for her."
Spike smiled, glancing at the moon, "Counting on it, slayer. Keeps me on my toes, and all that rot. But, I will win. She's too important to lose....."
Faith sighed, stepping on the remainder of her cigarette, "I want to win, Fang. Be warned.....it won't be easy."
"We'll see" he remarked, smiling at her as he tossed his Marlboro before slinging his arm haphazardly over her shoulders, "May the best man win."
"She will" Faith said, laughing as he rolled his eyes. They walked to the Explorer, waiting for Willow as they continued to challenge each other for her attention. They missed the redhead moving from her place beside the building, the small bag forgotten in her hands as she looked at their laughing forms by the car. A speculative look entered her eyes as a crafty smile graced her lips. She laughed softly as she moved to join them. They had a new opponent in their game, she decided, looking at the two people she loved most in the world. This was going to be one hell of a vacation, she thought smiling innocently at them as they greeted her.
~Part: 10~
Willow looked out the window, her mind elsewhere as Spike continued to drive. This was the second day of her journey and she was already learning so much. She knew that Faith and Spike had no idea that she had overheard their conversation. Heck, she didn't even really believe it herself. Spike and Faith were both in love with her? It just didn't seem possible. She had loved Spike for so long. Faith was more confusing to her. She knew she loved her friend, but she wasn't sure if it was as deep a feeling as the girl obviously felt. She really wanted time to just think about everything. She didn't want to do anything that would jeopardize her relationship with Faith but she also wasn't sure if she could risk her own ego for Spike. What if he were merely playing a game and didn't care at all?
It was hard to think about possibilites with them both sitting so close to her talking and arguing. After she had realized what they were discussing, things had made more sense. She had finally understood the underlying tension that had always existed between them. It had been her all along. Or, actually, their similar feelings for her. Here she had thought of herself as unloved not two hours before and now she found out she had not one but two admirers. She glanced back at Faith and smiled, turning back to the window. She had never thought of herself as gay before but she had to admit that Faith's declaration of love hadn't disgusted her. In fact, it had given her warm feelings. Not as warm as Spike's had but still warm. She loved Spike but did that mean that she couldn't also love Faith?
She saw the neon of a motel blinking about a mile ahead of them. She smiled, deciding exactly how she could get time to herself to think. Not only that, but it would allow her to decide if she was willing to take the risk in playing their game, knowing exactly what the consequences would be. She looked at Spike, touching his arm. Her new awareness suddenly picked up on the change in his body's position at her touch. She couldn't believe how blind she had been. It had always been there, she just hadn't been smart enough to see it. "Can we stop? I'm tired."
"Of course, pet. Whatever you wish" he said, deciding not to mention sleeping in the car until she had gotten the room.
"I could use a good long bath anyway" Faith said, stretching. "Never realized how tiring a vacation truly was."
"A bath sounds great" Willow said, looking away as she saw the flash of arousal her words had caused not only in Faith's eyes but Spike's as well. She hadn't just been blind, she must have been brain dead. They were completely hot for her, she thought smiling softly. Two gorgeous, smart, brash but caring people and they both wanted her. Again she pinched her arm to make sure it wasn't just a dream. "I'll got get the room. You guys can grab a cigarrette."
"Are you sure, Red?" Faith asked, stepping into the damp air.
"I can handle it" Willow said, catching the girl's eyes and smiling before walking into the lobby.
"Something's up" Spike said, his eyes on Willow as she spoke to the clerk.
"Huh?" Faith asked, not moving her eyes from the same site.
"She's been quiet for hours" Spike said, looking at Faith with a frown. "She's been thinking. Silently. That's not good."
Faith grimaced, "Maybe she's missing Sunnydale."
Spike shrugged, "She might just be tired. I just don't like when she gets so quiet. Makes me worry."
"I know what you mean" Faith said, looking back at the redhead. She watched as Willow came outside and smiled, "So, we set?"
"Yep" Willow said, handing them both a key. She saw their surprise and shrugged, "I splurged and got us singles. Spike, your room is a smoking. Sorry Faith. They only had one left."
"I hardly smoke" Faith said, grumbling as she took her key. "Didn't know you were already tired of our company...."
"We can go back" Spike said, giving Willow a hurt look.
"No" Willow said, shaking her head. "I just thought we could use a little away time. We might not have another chance to each have our own room, so enjoy it. You guys can't leave me.....I just...I just need this time alone...."
"Sure luv" Spike said, his eyes leaving her face as he went to unload her suitcase.
"Whatever" Faith said, taking her own bag and walking to her room. She opened the door, slamming it shut.
"Here" Spike said, putting her bag by her feet before grabbing his from the car and going up the stairs to his room.
Willow heard his door slam and jumped. She sighed, picking up her luggage. "That did not go over the way I hoped....."
~Part: 11~
Spike looked around the small room and frowned. He didn't want to be here alone. He couldn't believe that Willow had forced them into private rooms. He kicked the end of the bed, smiling in satisfaction as it groaned weakly. Wasn't as good as killing someone, but it didn't give him a headache. He moved around the room, his anger radiating in every step. He didn't like being sent away like some bad puppy. He didn't have to take that from anyone. Especially not some little girl. He kicked the chair, sending it into the table. Stupid chit thought he was some child she could ignore. She had another think coming, she did. He glared at the single bed, remembering what it had felt like that morning to wake up with her by his side....the warmth that had radiated from her...the softness of her skin brushing against his...the gentle sighs of her breathing....He felt himself harden as his mind brought him the vivid dreams he had had that night. He cursed, opening the door and walking into the night. He needed a drink.
***********
Faith turned the shower on, glaring at the water. Willow didn't want them around. She couldn't believe it was only the second day and they had already been sent on their own. She put her hand underneath the water, testing it. Too hot, she decided. She adjusted it, moving to the mirror. She looked into it, surprised by the anger she saw in her eyes. Not anger at Willow. More of an anger at herself. Anger for falling for someone unattainable. Someone so out of her league. She moved from the bathroom, reaching for her bag. She pulled out her shampoo and such, deciding that she'd at least take advantage of the single room by sleeping nude, as she usually did. She went back to the bathroom, putting her stuff down. She groaned as she turned the water off. There was no way she could shower right then. She was too pissed. She needed a drink, she decided. Maybe find some vampire and kick some ass. Yeah, that would improve the night. She headed to the door, grabbing her coat before she stepped into the night.
***************
"You see, I do love them both" Willow said, begging the bartender to understand her position.
"Well, then, seems like you know what you want" Rick said, smiling slightly at the small redhead. She had come into the bar an hour before, ordering a soda and proceeding to tell him all about her love problems. He wondered if he should put some rum in the coke, knowing she was underage but thinking she might need the release.
"Yeah, but I shouldn't want either of them, much less both. How can I decide?" she asked the kind bartender. "I mean, I'm not supposed to like girls. I am a girl. I never imagined myself being gay. And if I pick her, I lose him. But if I pick him, I lose her. Being a grown up really sucks."
Rick laughed, leaning against the bar. "Red, I'd say that you are thinking too much about what is expected. Who gives a fuck what anyone else thinks? They aren't the ones living in that skin. Do what feels right. I've lived forty two years on this planet with that philosophy and don't have any regrets. How many people can say that?"
"Not many" she said, thinking over his words.
"See? No regrets. That's what life should be about. You're young. Why aren't you enjoying that life instead of sitting here talking to me?"
"Because" she said softly, "I'm scared."
"Fear is a state of mind" he said, getting her another coke. "What are you scared of? You already know they want you. No fear of rejection. So, what is scaring you?"
"My other friends won't understand" she said weakly.
"So fucking what?" he asked, demanding her answer.
"I can't choose either of them" she said, frowning. "I was going to try but I can't."
"Why do you have to choose?" Rick asked. "This is the year 2000. I've seen a hell of a lot more unusual things than that."
"I don't know if I could do that" she said, sitting up as she realized he was right. She didn't have to choose. She could have them both. "You're right. I'm a modern woman. I want them both....why shouldn't I have them both?"
"Darn tootin" he said, nodding in agreement.
Willow laughed, "I feel much better now. Of course, after tonight, they might not want me anyway."
"How could they not?" he asked, smiling.
"Well, I can just make them want me, Right?" she asked.
He nodded, "Sure can, darling. You could have them begging I'm sure."
She smiled, taking a drink of her soda. "I could....couldn't I?"
"Seduce the hell out of them" he said, winking. "Don't give them a chance to get away."
"I just might do that" she said, smiling at the idea of leaving Faith and Spike breathless and needing her. But she wasn't really a seductress. Hell, she'd never even dated much less seduced anyone. But, she could do it. This was her vacation after all. "Thanks Rick."
Rick smiled, moving down the bar to take another order. Willow stood, leaving her money on the bar as she headed past the tables and dancing people to the door. She stopped when she saw Spike walk in, danger radiating from his tense body. She saw him freeze when his cold blue eyes found her. His eyes narrowed as he headed towards her. Her eyes widened as she saw Faith come into the bar not a minute later, the brunette seeing her and Spike and heading straight their way too. She let out a breath, deciding it was now or never. She was going to begin the game. She finally knew what she wanted....and she wasn't about to let them get away.