"Would you please stop that." Willow said through clenched teeth.

Spike smiled and continued singing.

I'm Enerey the eighth I am...Enerey the eight I am I am...I got married to the widow next door, she's been married seven times before....and everyone's an Enerey, she wouldn't take a willie or a Sam. nope, i'm her eighth old man now i'm Enerey Enerey the eight i am i am...Enerey that eight I am...Second verse same as the first

She threw her book on the couch and grabbed a pillow. She smacked him across his singing mouth with all her strength. He grabbed the other pillow and swung at her. Soon, they were chasing each other around the living room of the apartment, laughing.

Willow and Spike had become roommates shortly after her second semester of school. Buffy had decided to move back in with mother, who rarely saw anymore. Spike had asked Willow to share a place with him. Since he had decided to remain in Sunnydale and help them, he needed his own place. He hated living alone and like the young witch. She had agreed. He had helped her get over Oz, and she needed somewhere to live. That had been almost five months ago. She had never had so much fun. She'd never thought she'd say it, but Spike was truly her best friend.

After fighting a bit longer, they both collapsed on the couch.

He started humming, waiting to see her eyes light up with fire.

"Spike! Stop it."

"It's your fault pet. You're the one who told me you were studying Henry the Eighth in that history course. Is it my fault that you got that silly song stuck in my head?"

"Typical man. Always blaming the woman."

"Baby, there's nothing typical about me" he said, wiggling his eyebrows and leering at her.

She groaned and sat up. "Be serious. I need to finish this chapter. PLEASE find something to do."

Spike sighed loudly. "For you, luv, I will. If it were anyone else, I'd refuse. Just want you to understand the depth of my friendship here."

She smiled. "I know...I know...love you too. Now, GO."

He shook his head, chuckling softly, and went to his room. She heard the radio start up. She opened the book and started to read. She didn't even notice when she started humming the song he had been singing.

* * * * *

"5000 bucks baby" Spike said, smirking.

"I don't have that much." Willow said, her eyes pleading.

"Sorry pet. You owe me 5 grand. I might be willing to let you work it off..." he said suggestively.

Willow smiled. "Anything...just name it sweet thing." she said breathlessly.

"Ooohh...you just love to tease me don't you?" he said, winking at her.

She rolled her eyes before cracking up. "Spike. Please. I don't have the money."

"You should have thought that before you landed on Boardwalk sweetie. I want my money."

She thrust her lip out and pouted. "Fine. Here's your damn money." She threw a stack of paper money at him. "I quit."

"Sore loser." He said tauntingly.

"Am not."

"Are too."

"Am not."

"Are too."

"UGH! Just just....leave me alone." Willow flounced away from the table dramatically. Her performance was ruined when she twisted her ankle and fell to the floor.

"Fuck" she screamed out. "That hurt."

Spike was by her side in an instant. "Are you ok luv?" he asked, worry in his eyes.

"Hurts." she said through tears.

"C'mere.....Let Spikey have a look." He inspected her ankle. "Doesn't look sprained. Let's get you to bed and put some ice on it."

Willow felt a prickle of awareness shoot through her when he scooped her up into his arms. She clutched his shoulders, and whispered in his ear. "You just want to get me to bed."

He laughed. "Sorry, pet. Wouldn't want to ruin the friendship. Besides, you're not my type." he said, smiling.

Willow smiled to cover the hurt she was feeling. She knew he was right. She loved having him as her friend. The bestest friend she could ever have, surprisingly. He had been there for her since the end of last year. She had only realized lately that she was feeling these non-friendly things for him. He was oblivious.

"You're not my type either." she said, trying to joke along. "I prefer my men living."

He set her gently on the bed, putting a pillow underneath her swollen foot. "Good. Guess that's what makes us such good mates then. None of that hidden, underlining attraction to get in the way. Now, let me go get some ice. We'll just crash in here tonight. Maybe watch a movie."

She watched him leave. "Spike?"

He turned and smiled. "Yes luv?"

"Popcorn?" She asked in a small voice.

He laughed. "Yes, Mistress." he bowed slightly and walked out of the room backwards, before turning and heading to the kitchen.

She sighed and settled back on the pillows. She hoped there was a good violent action movie on. She was in the mood to see things blown up.

* * * * *

"I'm sorry." Spike said, looking at Willow.

"You should be." She responded curtly.

"Pet....It just looked swollen."

"I wanted to go to the doctor, but nooooo Spike knows it all. He says its swollen. Well, let me tell you something. See this cast? It's not coming off for six weeks. SIX weeks. That is almost my entire summer vacation. That slightly swollen ankle? Three torn ligaments. THREE. How, I have no idea. It just felt twisted. But, I'm now stuck on crutches for the remainder of the summer."

Spike looked away guiltily. She sighed. It wasn't his fault. She had know better. She was being punished. She didn't know for what, but it was happening. She was now pretty apartment bound for the a month and a half. 45 days and nights with Spike. 45 days that she had paste a smile on her face and act like she was just his best friend in the entire world. 45 days that she would have to sit here wishing for more...45 days of sheer torture. Hell would be a welcome alternative.

"Do you need another pillow?" He asked eagerly.

He had to make it up to her. She was his best friend. His only friend. He had no intention of losing her over his mistake. He would fix it. He had 45 days to make her forget that it was his fault she had been mad....that it was his fault she hadn't gone to the doctor immediately.

"I'm fine." She said, feeling tired.

"I'll make you some dinner." he said, getting up.

She needed to eat. She was looking pale. He wondered if she was in very much pain. She just nodded and avoided his gaze. He felt something twist inside him when she wouldn't look at him. He turned quietly and went to make her some dinner. He never wondered why he cared so much that she was in pain. He knew it was because she was his best friend. Any best friend would do the same. He'd make sure that the time flew by for her. He'd help her. After all, that's what friends were for.

* * * * *

"What did you get?" Willow asked eagerly.

She had been in the cast for three days. She was going crazy. She liked to move around and be free to go wherever she wanted. The only beneficial thing had been Spike's constant companionship. He was always around trying to cheer her up, just like a friend should be. She rolled her eyes at that thought.

Spike grinned at Willow's eager expression. She was laying in her bed with her cast propped on a pillow. He hated to say it, but he was glad that she was injured. They had spent every waking moment together these past few days. He had never enjoyed himself so much. They played games, watched movies, spent hours talking, and could sit comfortably with each other in pure silence. He was so lucky to have her.

"I got some comedies." he said smiling, holding up his Blockbuster sack.

"Comedies? Well, better than romances" Willow made a face.

"Do you need anything before we start? A soda? Some food? A blanket?"

"Spike. Please quit the mothering act. I mean, it was cute in the beginning but I'm starting to feel suffocated. Just get your cute ass over here and let's watch a movie."

He looked taken aback before smiling. "Cute huh? Knew you liked me Red" he grabbed a movie and went to the vcr. She saw him shake his ass a bit. "Enjoying the show?" he called over his shoulder.

She groaned and covered her face with a pillow. "Stuff it dead boy. What are we watching first?"

Spike sat down on the bed beside her, reaching across her for the remote. She almost stopped breathing when he accidentally rubbed her breast with his arm.

"Lost Boys is first." He said, hitting Play.

"What? I thought you said comedies. What else did you get?"

"Interview with the Vampire, Near Dark, and Dracula. And hey...to me, those are all comedies. Completely far fetched and impossible. I mean, those are the Naked Guns of vampire movies to a vampire."

"You're impossible."

"Yeah, but you love me anyway." he said winking as the tune People are Strange played from the tv.

"Yeah I do" Willow whispered, watching the TV. He heard her mutter something, but couldn't make out the words. Puzzled, he watched the movie.

* * * * *

"Where are you going?" Willow asked from the couch.

Spike walked into the room smiling. He was wearing blue jeans and a long sleeve pullover. "You mean, where are WE going pet."

"I'm not going anywhere." Willow said grumbling.

She felt awful. The medication she had was making her slightly loopy and she hadn't been able to take a proper shower in five days.

"Yes. You are. So, pick that lip up and get those crutches."

"No."

"Willow...don't make me carry you."

"You wouldn't dare." Willow said.

"What I do for my friends?" Spike said, rolling his eyes.

Willow shrieked as he pulled her into his arms. "God, little bit, you've gained some weight."

She hit him. "Put me down. I do not want to go out."

"Uh huh..." he said smiling and ignoring her protests.

"Spike...I'm serious. I don't feel like this."

He carried her to the car and set her in the back seat, careful of her cast. He wouldn't answer her. She closed her eyes, trying to forget the feel of his arms around her.

When the car stopped, she smiled. He had taken her to the park. She could see kids playing little league.

"Come here." he said, carrying her to a picnic table. He then went back to the car and got something out of the trunk. She admired his body as he walked with grace and ease. She watched as he opened the sack and started setting out food.

"What is all this?"

"I thought you needed some fresh air. You need to eat. Besides, there are a lot of people here. I can grab a quick bite too."

"Spike!" Willow said, having to laugh. "Thanks."

"Hey, that's what friends are for" he said smiling as he put food on her plate.

* * * * *

Willow lay on the sofa, her head on Spike's lap. He was rubbing small circles on the top of her head. They were watching the end of Sixteen Candles.

"That is so sweet."

"I guess....I do like that Long Duc Dong fellow."

"Completely unrealistic thought."

"What?" Spike said looking down at her. Her eyes were focused on the screen. "My hopeless little romantic Willow being cynical. What's wrong?"

"I'm just sick of all these movies. Guys like that don't exist. She would have been stuck with the geek or by herself. I'm just tired of it. There are no romantic men anymore. The ones that are are either gay or married."

"What's wrong? Come on tell brother Spike all about it. Something is bothering you if you're down on romance. I'm the cynic in this relationship."

"Am I ugly?"

"What?"

"I've been trying to figure out why men don't want me. I mean, Xander didn't want me. Oz didn't want me. I'm 19 and I've only dated one guy. I just wanted to know what was wrong with me so I'd understand why I will end up alone, dying an old maid."

Spike looked at her wondering if she were serious. She kept her eyes on the TV. Gently, he moved her face so he could look in her eyes.

"You're gorgeous. That hair....those eyes...that smile....you're so smart..and funny...and caring....and you're cute when you babble....there is nothing wrong with you...well, except for your taste in men. You picked two losers luv. They were blind. You need someone who can appreciate you for what you are."

Willow looked into his eyes and saw his sincerity. He thought she was pretty. She wished he'd kiss her and tell that she wasn't alone....that she had him.

"I know." he said smiling, "I'll find you a man."

"What?" Willow said, not sure she heard him correctly.

"Yep. I can find you the perfect guy. I'm your best friend. I should know who would suit you...who you'd like. Besides, I don't plan on letting my best friend die an old maid. What do you say? Can I? Can I?"

He looked so eager. Was he that ready to get rid of her? She knew then that he didn't feel the same way towards her. It was the whole Xander thing all over again, except this time it was really love.

"Whatever. But no promises. And no creeps."

"Great. You won't regret this. I'll find you the perfect man....living of course."

(You are the perfect man for me, you idiot....) Willow thought before turning back to the tv.

* * * * *

Spike looked at Willow and smiled. She was looking at the crowd of people and frowning. Tonight was the first night of Operation: Manhunt, as he fondly called it. She sighed as she started to drink. She was wearing a baggy pair of shorts and one of his T-shirts. He had never seen her look better. There was something about her in his clothes that he liked. It was almost as though he was showing the world that she was his. Spike shook his head. He didn't know where that thought came from. She was his friend. That was all. He looked at her grimace as she moved her cast.

"You ok?"

"Just peachy. This place is loud." Willow said.

"We're looking for a man. Can't do that in a quiet place."

"I don't see anyone I like. Can we go?"

"You haven't even looked. Remember, you promised to try." he gave her his best pitiful look. "Pweese?"

Willow had to laugh. "Ok. How about him?" she pointed to a good looking guy that was seated with several other men.

"Gay." Spike said scowling at her choice.

She rolled her eyes. "Figures. How about him? The one dancing?"

"Too messy. If he dances like that, imagine what he's like in bed."

"What about him?"

"Too fat."

"Him?"

"Too short. Could you imagine looking down at him all the time?"

"He's at least 5'8". Fine...what about him?"

"I don't like his eyes. Looks mean. He'd probably abuse you."

"Spike! Gosh...ok. Oh...wow." Willow stared.

Spike frowned at her expression. She was practically drooling. "You can close your mouth luv. What is it?"

She pointed, licking her lips. "Him. The guy with black hair. Wow."

He looked at the guy in question. "Ugh. No. Not for you. Try again."

Willow looked back at him. He was avoiding her eyes and staring at the dancers. "Spike. You said I could choose. You haven't like any of them yet. Besides, he's cute."

"He looks like a jerk. Probably Italian. Those Italians are all jerks. Trust me pet. I lived there a few years. They treat women like meat."

"What if I want to be treated like meat?"

He looked at her. "You don't. I don't like him. He's too smooth."

"You think he's too good for me." Willow said quietly.

Spike laughed. "Not good enough for you. Let me look. I'll find someone."

"I can't stand this anymore. You look. I'm going home."

"Need me to take you?"

"No, I'll get a cab. You stay. You're more interested in this than I am. See you later." she kissed his cheek and hobbled out.

He began to look around the club. He was relieved to notice that Mr Oily had a girlfriend meet him. Good, knocked him off the list. He looked at each single man, but dismissed them all. None of them were right Willow. She deserved the best. Someone who would romance her...who would treat her as though she were the most perfect woman on Earth....someone who would hold her while she slept....who would dry her tears when she watched Beaches....someone who would make her laugh when she was sad...someone who would love her for eternity. Yes, that was what Willow needed. She needed someone like.....him. He suddenly sat back in the chair.

"Bloody hell" he said softly, "I'm in love with her."

* * * * *

Willow sighed as she watched the talk show. It was very dull. The usual, I slept with your man but really want his sister, kind of garbage. She hadn't seen Spike since she had left the club last night. She had heard him come in early that morning. It was strange. He was very quiet yet she somehow knew when he was around. Buffy had once told her that she had Spikedar. She knew that it was true. She heard his door open and looked up. He was gorgeous as always. Frowning, she turned her attention back to the program.

"That will rot your brain luv" Spike said, sitting on the sofa beside her.

"Its either this or the dating game. I picked the lessed of two evils." Willow said.

"How's your ankle?"

"Hardly hurts. The doctor thinks the cast might be able to come off early, thank the heavens."

"That's great." Spike said. He couldn't believe how uncomfortable he was around her. Since coming to his realization, he wasn't sure how to act. "So, I found him."

Willow turned at looked at him. "What?"

"You're perfect man. Last night. After you left." He said, grumbling a bit. "I spoke to him for several hours. Told him all about you. He can't wait to meet you."

"You're joking."

"Wish I was....it just seemed like fate." Spike said, turning to face her. He could see the reluctant curiosity in her eyes. "He might be the perfect bloke. He had a great name, if I do say so myself. William, though he told me his friends call him Billy."

"Billy?" Willow said, wrinkling her nose. "You just picked him because he has your name."

"Nope. Didn't even find that out until I pegged him as your soul mate."

"What's he look like?" Willow asked skeptically.

"Brown hair...sort of muddy colored. About my height....maybe a little taller. Don't really know. We were sitting. He seems rather thin....maybe a bit of muscle. Seems smart enough. Could tell a joke but knew when to quit."

"What color where his eyes?" Willow asked, a bit intrigued that Spike had found a man that passed his list of criteria.

"Didn't notice. I tend to not stare into strange men's eyes pet."

"Strange?" Willow asked smiling.

"You know what I mean. I'm not like the Poof. I like my partners female, thank you very much."

"Is he a student?"

"He's taking classes, I think. Don't really remember. He seems a bit older than you. I'd say early 20's."

"Are you serious?"

"Yes. I told you I'd find you your soul mate. You just didn't trust me."

"No, I trust you with my life." Willow said, her eyes sincere. "I just didn't think it was possible."

"I told him you wouldn't meet him until you were out of that cast. Thought you might like to be able to stand on both your feet."

"Definitely. But, I can't meet him."

"You sure as hell had better. I spent all night searching for the bloke."

"Spike, you know me and guys. I stammed and babble and turn red and just can't do it."

Spike rolled his eyes. He loved her, but sometimes she could annoy him.

"You're perfect."

"Will you help me?"

"What?" Spike demanded.

It wasn't bad enough that he had to carry through with his promise to set her up, despite his feelings. Now, she wanted his help in getting ready to seduce the poor lad. Of course, if she could fall for him, ol' Billy could just go to hell.

"Sure thing. Anything for you luv. That's "

"What friends are for?" Willow finished, smiling. She hugged him and kissed his cheek. "Thank you for being there."

He kissed the top of her head and smiled. If he had anything to say about it, he didn't plan on leaving.

* * * * *

Spike frowned. He saw Willow watching the children swing. He couldn't believe he was helping her get ready for another man. Even if it was the perfect man for her and he had chosen him, it took some nerve for her to talk him into this. He watched as she smiled at the children. He was a bloody idiot. If it had been even a year ago, he would have carted her off and tortured her into loving him. Now, he had gotten soft. He saw her turn to him, her eyes shining. He loved it.

"Aren't they adorable?" she said, motioning to the kids.

"I don't know. Kids never tasted that good to me. Now, Dru loved them. Said they were like a sweet wine." he laughed as she hit him. Turning serious, he said. "You want kids don't you?"

Willow was surprised. "I've never thought about it. I guess so....I don't know. I think I could be happy without them, if I loved the man I was with." (If I were with you....)

"Yeah, but you'd love to have a dozen of the rugrats running around."

She didn't know why he was suddenly angry. "No. I told you. If I had them, great. If I didn't, I'd be just as happy. I am not one of those silly girls who rates her life based on her children and her husband. I am too independent. Besides, I like fighting evil. If I had children, I'd have to quit that. I might adopt one day. There are so many children in Sunnydale that don't have parents. I don't really know. Why?"

"Nothing. I forgot to ask Billy is he wanted kids. I should have thought about that. He didn't seem the type."

"If he's as perfect as you say, that shouldn't be a problem."

He scowled at her. "Yeah....Mr Perfect."

"I should have my cast off Friday. Should I meet him then or wait?"

"He's out of town this week. Besides, you're not ready. We haven't practiced."

"Oh...that's right. When are we going to do that?"

"Friday night. I'll take you out to celebrate the cast coming off. I'll plan it. Make it special. Hell, I'll even pick you up like it's a real date. It'll be fun. How's that sound?"

"Perfect" Willow said softly. She only wished it were real.

* * * * *

Willow looked at herself in the mirror and sighed. She was going on a sort of date with Spike. She knew that it wasn't a good idea, considering her feelings for him. She had promised him though. She couldn't believe he had set her up with some stranger. He had seriously picked up a guy for her in a club. Billy. Even the name made her want to puke. Why couldn't he see that if it wasn't him, she didn't want them? She would rather stay with him, just being friends, then pretend to be in love with someone else. He was the only man for her. She thrust her small breasts out, and tried to post seductively. It didn't work. She just wasn't very seductive. She wondered where he was taking her to practice.

Spike stood outside his own front door and shifted nervously. He couldn't believe that he was trying to win Willow over. She was too good for him. He was just a killer. A soulless demon. Why would anyone as perfect as her ever want to get mixed up with him? He should just leave her alone. Let her find love with some human. But, he couldn't. He knew that he would sabotage any attempt she made to be with another man. He might not get to have her, but that sure as hell meant that no one else would either. She could stay his friend....be with him only. He had no intentions of sharing her. And now, now it was his own damn fault that she was going out next Friday. He would only have himself to blame. He knocked.

Willow opened the door and looked at Spike. He was gorgeous. She couldn't believe that he had actually gotten dressed up for their evening. He was wearing gray slacks and black pullover that seemed to fit like a second skin. She smiled as she noticed his ever present duster.

"Good evening." she said quietly.

Spike felt his mouth fall open. Willow was a vision. Why had he never seen her before? She was wearing a black dress. Nothing that sexy.....nothing that daring. Yet, he could not remember seeing anyone more enchanting in over a hundred years. He smiled, trying to hide his emotions.

"Good evening Willow. I'm William, but most of my friends call me Spike. You can call me whatever you like."

Willow laughed. "Hello William. I've been looking forward to meeting you." she said, keeping the game going.

"You are even more beautiful than I was told" he said sincerely. He watched in fascination as she blushed.

"Enough. You don't have to lie. Where are we going?" she asked, her eyes eager. "I got my cast off. I can't wait to walk again without those damn crutches."

"Crutches? Oh, that's right. I was told you hurt your ankle. Some bloody idiot pissed you off. I'm sure he was very sorry."

"Spike! It wasn't your fault." she felt his finger on her mouth. Her insides turned to pudding.

"Shh...Tonight, I am William....you don't know me. Remember? This is practive for your date with Billy" he spat out the last word.

"I didn't realize what you meant." Willow said, trailing off. She was supposed to treat this as a real first date with a stranger? She smiled shyly, that might not be too bad.

"Shall we?" Spike said, offering his arm. She took it and followed him into the night.

* * * * *

Willow laughed as she walked up the stairs. The night had been unreal...too perfect. They had acted as though they were meeting for the first time. She had learned so much about Spike that he had never told her. He tended to keep quiet about his past. She assumed he had wanted to forget it. Now, she knew that it had just never come up. She glanced at the apartment door. She really hated to see this evening end.

Spike watched the moonlight shine on Willow's hair. She was wonderful. The night had been a dream. They had had dinner....went to an outdoor play....and then just sat under the stars talking. He couldn't remember having so much fun. Thinking back, he realized that since he had known her he was always enjoying his life. He no longer felt like the second choice. She had chosen to remain his friend and roommate even when the wolf had returned and begged her to come back. He had been her choice. Watching this evening, he had gotten vibes that told him she might just feel the same way he did. He was so tempted to test it...see if she cared. He knew he shouldn't. She deserved so much more. He saw her eyes filled with happiness....the smile on her face....he felt himself leaning forward, capturing her mouth with his.

Willow gasped. He was kissing her. She was awake and he was kissing her. She opened her mouth, allowing him access. She was on edge. She needed him. She moved closer to him, eager for contact.

Spike felt her body move closer to his. He moved his arm behind her and pulled her tight against him. He felt her warmth through the thin dress. Her breasts pushed against his chest. He needed her.

Willow felt his hardness against her stomach. She had caused that? She couldn't believe it. This was finally happening. It must be a dream.

Spike reluctantly pulled away. He saw her dazed, passion filled eyes.

"I'm sorry" he said softly. He saw hurt and embarrassment flush over he face.

"It happened.....I got carried away a bit too." she said, turning to open the door, her hair covering her face. "Guess I forgot it was you and not Billy." she threw back at him as she walked inside.

"Billy? You are not going to kiss him like that on your first date."

"Watch me" she said, her eyes on fire. "You don't want me, so what does it matter who I kiss when?"

"I do want you, that's the bloody problem" Spike said, exasperated at her. "I want nothing more than to take you into my bed and not let you leave for at least a week, if then. I want to see your eyes wide with arousal....I want to hear you moan as I move inside of you....I want to hear you scream my name as you cum....I want to hear you say that you love me....But, I can't...never will. I made a mistake tonight. I should have left it....I just had to have a taste of what I'll never have. Guess I am a glutton for punishment." he said, scowling as he went to his room and slammed the door.

Willow stood there frozen. Had he said he wanted her? That he wanted her to love him? She looked at his closed door. Dare she?

* * * * *

Willow opened Spike's door and paused. He was getting undressed. She saw his bare skin and almost turned away. Taking a deep breath, she stood her ground.

"You listen to me, Mr Drop a Bomb and Run. What if I want to feel those things you described? What if I've been dreaming about that since we moved in together? Do you have any idea how much it hurt me for you to search for a man to take me away from you? It felt like someone reached inside of me and tore my heart out. I have loved you since that night you held me last year and let me cry about Oz. I realized then that I never wanted to leave your arms. So, don't expect to be able to just mention that you want me...that you want those things and just have me forget about it. It isn't going to happ" her words were cut off as he kissed her fiercely.

She loved him. He had heard her. He couldn't believe it. He felt her warm hands on his chest. He had to have her....to stake his claim.

Willow felt herself falling. She knew that this was too soon. She knew that he must have just realized his feelings. She had to make sure that it was really her he loved or if he just didn't want to lose her to someone else. She pulled away, her hand moving up to caress his cheek.

"I can't do this right now. I don't know how you feel" she put her finger over his mouth as he tried to speak. "I have to be sure that you really feel these things and just aren't wanting to lose a friend. It would hurt me too much to find out later that you weren't really in love with me. I love you too much for that. I need to meet this guy next week. Give you some time to think about this. I don't want to be hurt anymore than I already have been." she said softly.

Spike closed his eyes, not wanting to see her face. "I know how I feel. Go out with Billy. He was the one I chose as your soul mate....your other half. After that, you'll discover that I do love you...I would put your happiness over anything. I don't want to lose your friendship, but it is so much more than that. We'll talk next week. Maybe you should decide if you really love me or if you like the idea of being in love. I've been hurt too, you know. Its not fun."

She nodded, tears in her eyes. She had truly hoped that he would stop her...would insist that he was honest....that he wouldn't let her leave. He hadn't. He had even told her to go out with his choice of the right man. She nodded, avoiding his eyes. She turned and left the room, going in to her room and falling to the bed. She cried for what she might have lost....She cried for what she might never have. She only hoped that things worked out.

* * * * *

Spike leaned against the door and ran his hand over the wooden surface. She was crying again. He could hear her sobbing into her pillow. It had been a week since things in their ordered world had exploded. It was his fault. He should have forced her to stay with him that night. He knew this now, but it was too late. He had fucked up, losing his best friend. She was gone every night. He had no idea where she went. She avoided him. He assumed she was giving him time to think. He was going crazy. He did love her. It just wasn't the thought of losing her, though that had been what made him realize his feelings. He knocked softly.

"Willow....Billy will be expecting you."

The door opened and Willow glared at him. He could see the red puffiness around her eyes. "I don't want to go." she said, trying to shut her door. His foot blocked it.

"You bloody well are going to go if I have to tie you up and take you myself. I took the time to find this guy for you. The least you can do is meet him. You never know, maybe he will be the perfect man for you."

Willow shook her head. "I hate men."

"You don't strike me as a lesbian luv. Now, go get pretty. He's meeting you at the park at 8:00 sharp."

"How will I know him?" Willow asked, trying to ignore her urge to bring him close to her and not let go. He wanted her to date this guy. She'd give this Billy a night he'd never forget. She'd teach Spike to set her up and break her heart. He had been avoiding her since their date. She knew that she had been avoiding him too. She couldn't believe how she had reacted. She should have just ignored him and acted like nothing had happened. Instead, she had told him that she loved him....had for months. She knew he didn't really care. He had just been scared of losing her. Now, their friendship wasn't even the same. She had lost it all.

"He'll know you. Take the rose. I described you to him in detail last night."

"Fine" she said, looking at his foot. "Can you move that? I need to get 'pretty'."

He moved his foot and flinched as the door slammed. He had really fucked up. He only hoped that Billy would make it all up to her. He missed her.

* * * * *

Willow sat on the park bench and scowled at the children. Not a month ago, she had sat her feeling happier than she ever had. That was before the big mess with Spike. Before he decided to find her soul mate. He said that this Billy was her other half. The perfect man for her. It had been two weeks since he had found him. She couldn't believe the guy had waited for her. He must be a loser. She heard a twig break behind her. Turning, she saw roses. She looked past them to a nervous face.

She smiled through her tears. "Billy?"

Spike shrugged. "I couldn't let anyone else have you. It was me all along pet. I intended to tell you tonight how I felt...I figured out that I was the man for you...if you'll have me."

She took a deep breath. "You described him.....you just made him up?"

"Nah...the blokes used to call me Billy. I described my human self....well, I fibbed a bit on the height thing. You asked too many questions." he said, smiling a bit.

She took the flowers from him, inhaling their scent. "I can't believe this. Why? Why the act all week?"

"I wanted to make sure you really loved me. I knew that you had a crush but I wasn't sure if it was more than that. I also didn't think I deserved you. Finally, I realized that we belonged together. Besides, after our fight, I really didn't see the opportunity to tell that I had been lieing all along."
 
 

"I forgive you" she said softly, looking up into his eyes. "I couldn't have chosen better myself." He suddenly grinned cockily. "I told you to trust me....that I'd find your soul mate. The guy who would love you forever...Just took me awhile to realize that he was me."

"I know" she said, smiling.

"Hey, what can I say? Women are usually smarter than men. It sometimes takes a bit to see what's right in front of us."

"I love you" she said, kissing him lightly.

"I love you too pet" he said, deepening the kiss. She dropped the roses to the ground, her arms encircling him.

"I'm never letting you go." she vowed against his lips.

"I won't protest. After all, luv, that's what friends are for." he said chuckling before kissing her again.
 

THE END

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