"It's over?" Spike asked, his tone whining.
 

Willow laughed as she hit the remote to turn the television off. "Sorry. Its
over. It was on for three hours."
 

"I pity that little Helga chit. She should bloody well chain that bloke to a
bed and torture the little wanker into loving her," Spike said, grumbling.
 

"Spike, honey, they're like seven or eight years old," Willow said, having to
smile. "At that age, you do not chain each other to beds and torture for
affection."
 

"Well, she still should," Spike said, frowning. "Silly damn cartoon, anyway."
 

"You liked it," Xander said, laughing. "You didn't move for hours."
 

"It was better than I would have believed," Angel admitted, somewhat
reluctantly.
 

"Now that it's over, can we get a bit more serious?" Spike asked, having
actually spent most of the past couple of hours thinking instead of watching
the telly. Sure, the cartoon was a tad better than he had thought it would
be, but how could they expect him to watch some silly show when Willow was in
danger. Blood damn fools.
 

"Do we hafta?" Xander asked, sighing. He knew they had put it off as long as
they could, but he still hated talking about it when they had no ideas. It
just made everything seem even more bleak and hopeless.
 

"I guess it is time to try to figure this out," Willow said, frowning. "I do
have something to tell you guys."
 

"What is it Willow?" Angel asked.
 

"He was in my room last night," she said, gnawing on her bottom lip.
 

"What?!" Spike demanded, glaring at her.
 

"I think," she added, shrugging. "I don't know. I feel like I'm going crazy
or something. I feel like someone is always watching me even when I know it
isn't possible. This morning, the trash can was moved. At least, I think it
was. I honestly thought it was beside the desk when I went to sleep. I just
don't know anymore."
 

"It's ok, Will," Xander said softly, hating the desperate tone in her voice
and the slightly dazed look in her eyes. He hated seeing her like this. So
hopeless. "It's going to be ok."
 

"You don't need to stay in that damn room anymore," Spike said, hating her
being so unprotected there.
 

"It's ok," she said. "Riley is getting a lock today to install. He is worried
about Buffy with all those demons that escaped."
 

Angel noticed that he felt nothing at those words for his former lover. He
was glad that she had moved on with her life, as he hoped to do soon. His
eyes found Xander before he could stop them. "I'm glad that problem will at
least be taken care of."
 

"Yeah," Spike muttered, not liking that the farm boy had stolen his idea to
keep Willow safe. Damn blond moron. Spike had never liked that bastard much
anyway. Too wimpy and slayer whipped, from what he had heard. Luckily, he had
never met the prick, though he was sure the man had been part of the force
that had captured him. For that, added to the fact that the idiot had shagged
the slayer willingly and repeatedly, the fucker deserved to die. Though,
shagging the moron was a torture in and of itself, he decided wryly. Oh well,
at least Willow would be safe in her room finally. "Makes him a real prince
among bastard soldier boys."
 

"If it keeps Will safe, I don't care what he does in his spare time," Xander
said, having to agree with Spike about their mutual dislike of Riley. That
one of several things that he and the vampire had found in common.
 

"You said that your source believes our invisible friend was the one that set
about the destruction of the initiative," Angel asked Spike, receiving a nod
from the blond. "Then, we must ask ourselves why. Why risk capture to destroy
the organization?"
 

"And, if Willow is the reason, why?" Xander echoed, already getting a
headache.
 

"What?" Willow squeaked, looking at them. "You think I'm the reason the
initiative was destroyed? Good grief. That's ridiculous."
 

"Pet, he beat Xander up for no apparent reason. If he believed that someone
there wished you harm, it is very logical he'd destroy it."
 

"But why? I mean, think about it. What threat does, or rather did, the
initiative hold to me? I have no contact with any of them except Buffy and
Riley, and hardly any with them. It just doesn't work. I mean, sure in theory
it sounds right, but in practicality, nope," she sighed. "There must be
another reason, not having to do with me."
 

"Maybe it wasn't even our demon," Xander said, his eyes lit with hope. "As
Willow said, it doesn't really make sense that our guy would go from beating
me up, leaving me alive I may point out, to arranging for several dozens of
people to die. There would have to be a good reason, I'd think."
 

"Maybe they caught him and planned to do some of their god damn experiments,"
Spike said, his tone angry at the fallen organization.
 

"That I might believe," Willow said, nodding. "If it was him, that is the
only logical explanation that I could think of. He was caught and managed to
escape their grasp and arrange for their destruction."
 

"Geesh, I feel like I've wandered onto the set of some detective show,"
Xander said, rubbing his temples. "I hate playing Clue."
 

"That's because you never win," Willow said, smiling.
 

Xander caught her eyes, "This time it's important though. I'll win if it
kills me, if it means saving you."
 

"No one is going to die," Angel said, his tone giving no room to argue.
 

""Yes, Daddy," Spike said with a slight smile. "I think at dusk I'll head out
to find my contact. He might have heard something new since last night. Maybe
some idea who our guy is or at least who destroyed those pathetic bastards."
 

"I'll see Willow home," Angel said, knowing the blond would not want her to
walk across campus alone at night.
 

"Thanks, sire," Spike said, nodding in approval. He glanced at Willow and saw
the shell shocked look on her face. "Peaches will make sure you get in
safely. I'll phone you if I hear anything."
 

"OK," she said, sighing. She ran a hand through her hair, saying, "I really
just wish I had some idea who this demon was and why he had chosen me. I
think it would make things a bit easier to deal with if I at least knew that
much."
 

"Come on. We got several hours before dusk. Why don't we turn on Jerry
Springer and enjoy some good fighting?"
 

"That I can handle," Spike said, a wicked gleam entering his eyes. He loved
trashy talk shows that included arguing.
 

Willow looked at Angel and snickered, "And he said we were immature for
liking Hey Arnold?"
 

Angel just smiled as Spike and Xander began to yell at the television.

I'LL BE SEEING YOU (32/?)
 

Riley looked at the tree and frowned. If she didn't shut up soon, he was
going to take a knife and slowly slice her tongue out. Slowly because he
wanted her to suffer as much as he was from listening to her constant babble.
It wouldn't be so horrible if she was actually talking about something of
interest. But, no, Buffy Summers had to talk about mindless, useless
bullshit. Even a glare in her direction had not made her shut up. She was
oblivious to everyone except herself. Selfish bitch.
 

"And I think that Xander might really love Willow, and I know she's always
loved him," Buffy continued, a smile on her face as she imagined her friends
finally being happy.
 

"What did you say?" Riley demanded, turning to face her as he finally
comprehended what she was babbling about.
 

Buffy looked over at him and frowned, surprised by the anger she saw in his
eyes. She forgot about patrol as she faced him, no longer able to ignore the
obvious. He was drifting away from her. "I said that I am happy that Willow
and Xander seem to be getting together, finally."
 

"Finally?" he hissed, his eyes narrowing at the mention of his Willow's name
linked with that moron.
 

"When I first met Willow, she was so in love with Xander. They have been
friends forever, but until recently I never thought he might be interested.
But, it seems that someone is on Willow's mind, and she is constantly with
Xander lately. Since he broke up with Anya, well, I think he might finally
have realized what he could have with Willow."
 

"She loves him?" Riley said, disgust evident on his face. "That weak,
annoying bastard?"
 

"Xander is not weak," Buffy said, defending her old friend. She may not have
seen him lately, but she considered him a friend. Hell, she had hardly seen
Willow much either, her connection with the initiative taking up most of her
time, with Riley taking up the remainder, yet she still thought of the
redhead as her best friend. "He's one of the strongest people I know."
 

Riley snorted, remembering just how strong the boy had been as he had laid on
the sidewalk being beaten. "Oh yeah, real strong."
 

"Not physically, but he has strength in his heart, where it really counts,"
Buffy said, studying Riley with suspicion. "What does it matter to you anyway
if they get together?"
 

"It doesn't," Riley said, turning to look at the moon. He felt tension
coursing through his body, mixed with anger. Did Willow think he was going to
allow her to be involved with Xander? He should have simply killed the moron
when he had had the chance. He had stupidly thought his warning would ensure
that the boy stayed away from his Willow. Instead, it seemed to have stopped
nothing. He didn't share. Xander Harris would learn that lesson, right before
he died. Riley smiled as images of Xander's death flashed through his mind.
 

"Yes it does," Buffy said, studying her lover. "You're pissed. I want to know
why!"
 

"Well, sorry. Sometimes Buffy doesn't get what she wants. Learn that now,
sweetheart." Riley said, glancing at her and seeing the shocked look on her
face, had to smile.
 

"What?" she said, just staring at him in surprise. It was the first time she
had ever heard him speak up like that. He was being plain mean.
 

Riley looked at her, sighing as he realized she was too stupid to understand.
"You are not the center of everyone's universe, Buffy. Contrary to what you
seem to believe, there is life that does not revolve around you."
 

"Why are you being such a bastard?" Buffy demanded, fighting the tears.
 

"Just shut up and I'll fuck you later? How does that sound?" Riley asked,
speaking to her as if she were a child.
 

"Fuck you!" she said, wiping hot tears from her cheek. "Just leave me alone.
I don't want to see you anymore. You are so not who I thought you were."
 

"Get over it, little girl," Riley said, his eyes amused by her outburst.
 

"Stay away from me!" she yelled, looking at him as if she had never seen him
before. In many ways, she realized that she hadn't ever truly seen him. "And
stay away from my friends. I don't want you anywhere near Willow or Xander."
 

She turned, not believing she was so stupid. Had he ever cared about her or
was it all just for a fuck? She heard a low growl and glanced behind her. No
one was there. She stiffened, calling, "Riley? Where are you?"
 

"She's mine," the words were whispered in the crisp night air.
 

Buffy turned, not seeing him but knowing he was there. "Willow? My God...you
want Willow! You leave her alone you bastard! If you touch her, I'll kill
you." She gasped as she felt a sharp blow to her ribs. She moved, her hands
going up as she fell into a fighting stance. "Show yourself, you coward."
 

Riley laughed at her attempt to be frightening. "Oh, I'm real scared slayer.
You forget, I know you, Buffy. All talk, no play." He watched her stumble as
she searched for him. Lazily, he kicked out, catching her in the stomach. She
groaned, but kept standing. He moved behind her, watching her strike the air
in front of her. He lashed out, capturing her hair and pulling her head back.
"Stupid bitch. Did you really think you could keep me away from her?"
 

"Leave her alone!" Buffy demanded, doing her best to keep standing and not
cry out in pain. She couldn't die. If she died, Willow would never know Riley
was after her. For her best friend's sake, she began to struggle. "I'm going
to kill you! You will never have her, you bastard."
 

Riley laughed, moving his mouth beside Buffy's ear, "I already have her, you
stupid bitch. She just doesn't realize she's mine yet. You really think you
could protect her? She can't stand you. Everytime she looks at you it is in
disgust. You've pushed her away, Buffy. She's not your friend anymore. Are
you so blind that you can't see that?"
 

"No...you're lying," Buffy said, her voice breaking slightly as he tightened
his hold in her hair. "Will is my best friend."
 

"No she isn't," Riley said. "You don't deserve her even speaking to you."
 

"NO!" Buffy said, pulling away and yelling at the pain of her hair being
pulled. She turned to face where he was, kicking as hard as she could. She
heard his surprised groan and pushed her hair from her face. "She is my best
friend, you miserable asshole. You aren't going to touch her as long as I'm
alive!"
 

Buffy tuned everything out, concetrating on the sound of his breathing. She
cocked her head to the side, swinging and feeling her fist come in contact
with him. Smiling, she licked the blood from her lip. She cried out as she
felt him hit her hard in the chest again, stumbling backwards. She felt tears
of frustration at the strength he seemed to have. He had never been so strong
before. She felt his hand hit her chin, knocking her head back and causing
her to see stars. She blinked, feeling blood drip into her eyes from a cut on
her head from a rock she had fallen against. She tried to stand, crying out
in pain as he began to kick her ribs. She started to crawl, trying to get
away. She had to warn Willow that Riley was insane. She felt her head pulled
back as lips brushed against her cheek.
 

"Sorry, Buff. You lose," Riley said, kissing her cheek before he pushed her
head forward against the hard ground. He stood, looking down at the body of
the slayer laying at his feet. He knew she wasn't dead, but she was passed
out and laying in a pool of blood in a cemetary. He glanced into the shadows,
feeling the vampires. He laughed, calling out, "Feeding time, boys. Slayer
blood all nice and warm and fresh."
 

He walked away from her body, giving it one last kick even though he knew she
would never feel it. She would never feel her death either, something he
almost regretted. He had planned to enjoy killing the nagging bitch slowly,
but this was rather fun too. Perfect excuse would be her death by vampires.
Poor Willow would need a friend. He knew it was almost time. Soon, Willow
would be his. He glanced back at Buffy's body, already seeing a figure
approaching and leaning down to taste the slayer blood. Whistling, he
fingered the key to the new lock installed on the dorm door and decided that
it was time to pay Willow a visit.

I'LL BE SEEING YOU (33/?)
 

Willow laughed as she leaned her head against Xander's chest. It had been
decided before leaving his house that it would be better for him to escort
her back to the dorm and Angel could go with Spike to see what they could
find out about the demon. She and Xander were moving slowly, just leisurely
walking through the campus and talking about general nonsense. She knew he
was in a bit of a pain, the tight lines in his face giving her a pretty good
idea that he was not healed yet. She felt stupid for having him walk her,
knowing that he had just gotten out of the hospital. What if the demon tried
to attack him again? She knew she could never live with the idea that Xander
had died because of her.
 

"Dime for them," Xander said softly, seeing the look in Willow's eyes.
 

"Huh?" she shook her head slightly to look at him in curiosity.
 

He smiled, "Well, I figured your thoughts were worth much more than a mere
penny, so I raised the rate." Hearing her laugh, he felt a sense of pride.
"So, whatcha thinking about?"
 

"Everything," she confessed softly.
 

"Whoa. That's a broad subject," he said, brushing a lock of hair from her
forehead. "Want to talk?"
 

"Not really," she responded. She saw him accept that and smiled, loving that
they had refound their friendship. She had missed him so much. "So, what's up
with you and Angel?"
 

"Huh?" he asked, turning to look at her.
 

"The tension between you two tonight was noticable, Xan. I honestly thought
that he was going to shove me and Spike out the door so he could shag you to
almost death," she said, laughing as Xander turned pink. "I also thought you
were tempted to do the same...."
 

"Just shut up," he mumbled, wondering if his feelings for Angel were that
obvious. If so, the vampire must be laughing his ass off.
 

"Xander's got a crush," Willow teased softly before allowing the subject to
drop. On impulse, she had to add, "He has one too, you know."
 

"What?" Xander asked.
 

"Angel. He is definitely interested in you," Willow said with a smile. She
knew that Xander lacked any sort of confidence in himself and would never
believe that Angel liked him unless he was forced into seeing it.
 

Xander snorted, "Yeah right. I can so see him interested in me. Good one,
Wills."
 

"Fine, don't believe me," she smiled a small smile. "He'll show you when he
thinks you're ready."
 

"Like Spike is showing you?" Xander asked, deciding to turn the tables on the
redhead. He watched in satisfaction as her face flamed.
 

"Spike doesn't show anything," she said, frowning. "He runs hot and cold and
I have no idea what he's thinking ever. I don't know if he is so worried
about this demon thing because he likes me or because he wants to be the one
to kill me."
 

"Oh, Spike doesn't want to kill you," Xander said, chuckling. "Not unless it
is to fuck you to death. And even then, he'd stop before you died."
 

"Xander!" Willow laughed, rolling her eyes. "Spike has no interest in me like
that. I'd think that I would notice."
 

"Will, you never notice what is right in front of you," Xander reminded with
a grin. "But, we'll drop it for now. Trust me though when I say that the
blond moron wants you bad."
 

"Just like Angel wants you," she said with a soft smile. She had to wonder if
Xander was right. Did Spike want her that way? Over the past week or so, it
had seemed at times that he actually cared for her. She had convinced herself
a few times that it might be love, but then she'd start doubting herself.
 

The two moved on from the subject of the vampires in their lives as they
began to discuss a new movie that was opening soon that they both wanted to
see. Soon, they had reached Willow's dorm. "I'll see you to your room,"
Xander said.
 

"How do you think you'll get up the stairs?" Willow asked, glancing pointedly
at his ribs that she knew were still bandaged.
 

"Damn stupid building. No elevator is a crime," Xander said, hissing softly.
"I can climb the stairs though. It is only the second floor."
 

"Are you sure?" she asked, concern in her eyes.
 

"I can rest in the room before coming back down," he added, knowing he
couldn't climb them and come right down. "Maybe Buffy will be in and I can
thank her for actually remembering me last night."
 

Willow smiled, "OK. Fine. BUT, I'm helping you climb."
 

"Yes ma'am," he replied with a smile before opening the door for her. He
followed her inside, determined to climb the stairs without one whimper of
pain. He wanted to make sure she arrived safely so that he could tell Spike
that he had seen her close the door. They continued to talk about movies as
they made the short climb to the second floor.

I'LL BE SEEING YOU (34/?)
 

"Finally here," Willow said, smiling at Xander as she opened her room door.
She walked inside, noticing the new lock with a smile. "Good. Riley got that
lock installed."
 

"Do I get a key?" Xander asked, moving to fall against her bed with a sigh.
"Man this feels great."
 

Willow looked at him and smiled, "You must be worse off than I originally
thought if you think that bed feels good. And yes, you get a key."
 

She moved to her dresser after shutting the door and found two keys hanging
from a silver loop. She took one off, leaning over to hand it to Xander.
"Don't lose it, 'k? I'll probably get a copy made for Spike tomorrow so that
there is another extra."
 

Xander smiled, laughing wickedly, "You just want him to give in to temptation
and sneak into your room one night and have his wicked way with you."
 

Willow snorted, "Yeah right. Stop already or must I bring up a certain
handsome brunette vampire's name?"
 

"Aw, look at the time. I think I need to go," Xander said, his face again
pink. He thought it was rather wimpy of him to turn pink at just the mention
of Angel's name. God, what would he do if ever faced with a half naked Angel?
Or a fully naked Angel? Images began to flash through his mind causing him to
groan softly as he adjusted his position on the bed. He was hard.
 

"Chicken," she taunted playfully. She saw him flinch and mistook it for pain.
Turning serious she said, "Actually, you should probably try to get back. Do
you want me to call a cab? I can see if anyone is around that has a car.
Maybe they could give you a lift?"
 

"I should be able to make it," Xander said.
 

"With all those demons running around plus our invisible friend? No...it
isn't safe. Hell, it probably wasn't very safe for us to walk here alone
anyway. Let me go see if Angela is awake. She is right down the hall plus she
has a car," Willow said smiling. "She owes me so she might take you home."
 

"All right," Xander said, knowing it was pointless to argue with Willow when
she had her mind made up. He laid back on the bed, closing his eyes as he
waited for Willow to talk to her little friend. Pretty pathetic that he
couldn't even walk home alone. How could he defend Willow when he was so damn
weak and useless? He heard the door open and Willow came back inside.
 

"Xander, this is Angela. She said she can give you a lift home," Willow said,
motioning to a girl a bit taller than her that had reddish brown hair.
Mischievious brown eyes that looked at him from behind a pair of glasses.
 

"Yum," the girl said in a faint southern drawl.
 

Willow giggled, "Ang, stop it. You might frighten him."
 

"But, Will," the girl whined, smiling playfully. "He's yummy. He's also
laying in your bed looking rather tired. Why on Earth are you sending him
home instead of"
 

"ANGELA!" Willow yelped, turning red. "Xander is a friend. Besides, I'm not
his type, if you know what I mean."
 

"God, Will! Tell everyone why don't you," Xander said, laughing at the other
girl's ability to embarrass Willow.
 

"Oh, damn," Angela said, making a face. "Why are all the good ones gay?"
 

"They aren't," Willow replied, thinking of Spike. Then, remembering Angel,
she ammended, "well, at least some are bi and prefer women."
 

Angela laughed, "OK. You got me there. I'm gonna get changed and I'll meet
you downstairs in thirty minutes, gorgeous."
 

Xander watched the girl leave and laughed, "You've got some strange people
living in this dorm."
 

"Angela isn't strange. She's just a big flirt. Other than that, she's
harmless." Willow smiled slyly, "I'd just be sure to watch her hands as she
drives you home."
 

Xander laughed, rolling his eyes, "I think I can handle her. So, we got half
an hour. What's on TV?"
 

Willow hit the power button and moved over towards the bed. She lay down
beside him, curling up and laying her head on his chest. She always felt so
safe in Xander's arms. After the past few weeks, it was such a pleasant
feeling. "Let's find out."

I'LL BE SEEING YOU (35/?)
 

Riley finished climbing the stairs of the dorm, a desire to see Willow
consuming him. Every day it seemed that his need for her grew. He had to see
her, to smell her, to hear her. He was not able to concentrate on anything
anymore. All he could see when he closed his eyes was her face. He could only
cum while thinking of her. She was his, despite what Buffy may have said.
That dumb bitch didn't know his Willow, not like he did.  He knew exactly
what Willow wanted...what she needed, even more than the redhead herself. She
was still so confused. Well, no more. That was what he was for. To make her
see how things were supposed to be. Xander was not important. Buffy was not
important. All that mattered was the two of them. The rest of the world could
fall away and they would survive. He had only one more obstacle standing
between them now that Buffy was dead. Xander.
 

Riley frowned as he thought of the stupid moron that seemed to have his
Willow's heart. What did she see in that guy? No, he wouldn't dwell on that.
Willow loved him, not Xander. She may not know it yet, but she did. She
belonged to him and he had no intention of allowing that bastard to see her,
much less talk to her or touch her. No, Xander needed to be removed from
Willow's life. Permanently. Riley had to smile at that, knowing that Willow
would have then lost both Buffy and Xander. She would turn to him for much
needed comfort in dealing with their loss and then he'd have her. He would
never let her go. He remembered suddenly that Giles was still around. Would
Willow go to the older man that seemed to be a father figure before she would
come to him? Realizing that she would, Riley decided that Giles had to go
too. No one would stand between him and his Willow. No one.
 

He reached her floor and started to her doors. He froze when he saw the door
open and the bane of his existence step outside. Xander. They had been in the
room together. He saw the wrinkles on the boy's shirt and noticed that a
couple of buttons were undone. He felt anger race over him as Willow leaned
up and brushed her lips against Xander's mouth. She whispered something to
the boy that he could not hear and he froze. That wasn't right. She was not
supposed to whisper things to that bastard. He was the only person she was
allowed to whisper to. Did she not see that? Why did she not see it? Even
Buffy had seen it, and she had been an oblivious bitch.
 

Willow just needed a reminder, he decided. He watched Xander walk away,
resisting the impulse to follow the boy and kill him. No, there was enough
time to kill Xander. Now was the time to give sweet little Willow a lesson in
ownership. Remind her that he owned her and would not tolerate her fucking
Xander or any man. He calmed himself, knowing that anger would ruin his
plans. He let out several breaths before becoming visible again. He went to
her door, knocking as he allowed his face to become upset and worried.
 

"What did you forget?" Willow asked, smiling as she opened the door. The
smile faded as she saw Riley instead of Xander. "Hi Riley. Buffy's not here.
Is something wrong?"
 

Riley nodded, blinking back tears. "It's Buffy. She's...she...oh God, she
died!" he said, before moving to hug Willow as he cried.
 

Willow felt shock and despair wash over her as she felt Riley's arms around
her, heard his sobs in her ear. She began to cry, knowing that she and the
slayer hadn't been as close this year but they had still been best friends
regardless of the lack of time they had spent together. "No...she can't be
dead."
 

Riley felt her body collapse against his as she began to cry against his
shirt. He smiled, a wicked gleam entering his eyes as he kicked the door shut
and moved them to sit on the bed. He kept her against him, wondering if she
would notice the erection that was straining against his jeans. Just the feel
of her finally in his arms could make him so hard. He listened to her soft
crying, brushing his lips against her hair and inhaling her sweet scent. She
smelled so good, he could just eat her up. With Buffy's death, she was in his
arms. Once Xander and Giles were dead, she'd be in his bed, he decided. For
now, he was content to listen to her sob and feel her warm body pressed
against his. Her lesson could wait for just a little while. Besides, he had
no intentions of allowing her to see his face yet. It was not time. But,
soon. She would be finally be where she belonged.

I'LL BE SEEING YOU (36/?)
 

Spike kicked at the gray slate and cursed. "I can't believe no one knows
anything!"
 

"It's going to be ok," Angel said softly, having not seen his childe this
upset in quite a long time. In fact, he could hardly remember a time that
Spike had let anything get to him, except maybe when he had lost his soul.
Even then, Spike had not been so angry.
 

"How do you know?" Spike spat in digust. He glared at his sire, the events of
the last few weeks getting to him finally. "This demon has already gotten
Xander once. He destroyed the entire fucking initiative for hade's sake and
he wants Willow. How can we protect her when we have no idea what he is?
Hell, we can't even see him! He could be here right now laughing his demonic
ass off at the lack of progress we're making and we wouldn't even bloody
know! So, don't sit there with that brooding little smirk and tell me
everything is going to be all right. Happily ever after doesn't often happen
in the real world and sure as fuck not on the hellmouth!"
 

Angel kept his eyes on Spike's, his demon straining at the tone of voice
Spike had used with him. He knew his childe was upset and was doing his best
not to lash out and knock the blond on his ass. "You think this helps?"
 

"What?" Spike asked, glaring at his sire as he lit another Marlboro. He was
glad he was all ready dead. Since they had learned about Willow's stalker, he
had started smoking even more. If he were human, he'd probably be dead.
 

"Yelling and stomping around like some child who didn't get their way.
Throwing a temper tantrum is not going to give you any answers," Angel
pointed out softly. He could understand Spike's reasoning, in a way. He too
wanted to find this demon and kill him for what he had done to Xander and
Willow.
 

Spike smiled, "It sure does make me feel a bit better."
 

Angel snorted, having to smile, "Why don't you find a demon to beat up?"
 

"I'm trying," Spike said, rolling his eyes. Suddenly, he stiffened. He
sniffed the air and dropped his smoke. Glancing at Angel, his eyes narrowed
as they flashed yellow. "Slayer blood."
 

Angel caught the scent in the air at the same time as Spike. He nodded,
knowing that smell by heart. "Buffy."
 

The two vampires moved through the cemetary at a rapid speed, drawn to the
scent of the blood. Spike felt a rush of worry go over him as he connected
the slayer with the initiative and then connected them with Willow and the
demon stalker. He saw a fledge leaning over someone laying on the soft ground
and growled, causing the new vampire to look up. He saw blood on the man's
face and charged. He easily killed the fledge before looking at the figure it
had been feeding from. The slayer.
 

"Good grief," Angel said, coming to a stop beside the fallen slayer. He
knelt, taking her hand in his. He felt her wrist, looking up at Spike. "It's
very weak."
 

"Fuck," Spike cursed, knowing who had done this. His eyes ran over her body,
seeing the bruises and blood. Exactly like Xander, except this time, she had
been left for dead. No short hospital stay for the slayer. He could see the
blood and knew she had lost a lot. He could barely hear her heartbeat,
listening to her ragged breath as she lay dying in her own blood. He hated
the bitch, but no slayer deserved to die like this. This was going to hurt
Willow more than he even wanted to imagine. She still considered the blond
her best friend in her heart. He knew that even while she griped about never
seeing Buffy, the two girls were loyal friends. This was going to kill
Willow, knowing that her stalker had been responsible for this. Sure, Spike
knew it was not proven, but he could see the similarities between Buffy's
body and Xander's.
 

"It was him," Angel said softly, watching the many emotions flicker over
Spike's face. "She's not going to make it. Too much blood lost. Feels like
some broken ribs and her right write looks broken."
 

Spike cursed, moving to kneel at her side. "Damn stupid bitch. Why did she
try to fight him?"
 

"That's just Buffy," Angel smiled sadly. "Always fighting without thinking
she might lose."
 

"Aye, that I know," Spike said, remembering just how many times he had lost
to the stubborn blond girl. "This will kill Willow."
 

Angel nodded, sighing an unneeded sigh. "Yes, it will. She will blame herself
regardless of what we tell her."
 

"Fuck," Spike said, running a hand through his hair. He leaned down, licking
at a streak of blood that covered Buffy's forehead. He felt Angel looking at
him and he glanced up, catching his sire's eyes. "I love Willow, mate. Tell
anyone, and I'll stake your broody ass."
 

Angel nodded at Spike's threat, already knowing his childe's feelings for the
redhead. He watched curiously, not sure what Spike was doing.
 

Spike bit into his wrist, moving his blood to the slayer's mouth. He sighed
as he allowed just enough to fall into her mouth to cause her to cough. He
glanced at Angel and shrugged, "She still might die, but with my blood, she
might live. All I can do for the chit. She needs a hospital."
 

"Spike?" there was a croaking sound below them. They looked down into glazed
blue eyes as Buffy woke up.
 

"It's ok, luv. We're gonna get you to a hospital," Spike said, knowing this
was as low as he could possibly get. Helping save a damn slayer for Lord's
sake. And he still figured she'd die, which made it all seem so pointless.
Even with his blood, she was barely breathing. But, she had woken up. That
might be a good sign.
 

"Willow," Buffy said, grimacing as a wave of pain assaulted her body. She
struggled to breathe, hoping that Spike would listen to her. She had to know
that someone was going to save her best friend. "Save Willow."
 

"Willow?" Spike said, watching as the slayer fought to stay alive. She was an
annoying self centered bitch a majority of the time, but she was a fighter.
He'd give her that.
 

"Save Willow," Buffy said again, each word a struggle to say. "Please."
 

"I'll go get her now," Spike said, watching as the girl smiled softly at his
words. "I'll save her. Count on that, slayer."
 

"Good," Buffy whispered before closing her eyes again. She felt everything
fade to black as she sunk into unconsciousness again.
 

"Bloody hell, get her to a damn hospital," Spike said, standing. "She sure as
fuck had better survive. I don't share my blood with just anyone."
 

"Go to Willow," Angel ordered. "Buffy seemed scared so something had to have
happened. I'll call Xander and have him meet me at the hospital."
 

"Aye," Spike agreed, turning. "I'll get Willow and contact you on that phone
of yours."
 

"Be careful Spike," Angel whispered softly, watching his childe race through
the gravestones. He looked back down at the battered and bloody face of his
old lover and felt a tear on his cheek. He picked her up, listening intently
to her heartbeat as he carried her towards the nearest hospital.

I'LL BE SEEING YOU (37/?)
 

Willow slowly came awake, frowning as she tried to remember falling asleep.
She sat up, running a hand through her short red hair. She glanced down,
thankful to see that she was still dressed. She looked at the door and saw
that it was closed. A note from Riley was laying on her bedside table. She
read it, reading that he had gone to his dorms, needing time alone to deal
with losing Buffy. If she needed anything, he had included his pager number.
She sniffled, still not believing that Buffy was dead. She laid back down on
her bed, wishing the past few months would just disappear or start over.
Everything except getting close to Spike and regaining her friendship with
Xander. Those were the only two good things to come out of it all.
 

She closed her eyes, wondering if Joyce knew about Buffy yet. Goddess, did
Giles even know? Since he rarely heard from the slayer after patrols, Willow
doubted it. She needed to call them, but first she needed some sleep. She
stood up, stripping her shirt off and pushing her jeans down. She stepped
into her boxer shorts and slid a tank top over her head. She decided against
walking to the bathroom for fear of running into her invisible stalker. That
was all she needed to make the day perfect. She laid back down, laying on top
of her covers instead of getting under them. It was rather warm in the room
and she was already feeling a soft sheen of sweat on her back.
 

She was laying there, lost in thought and memories when she heard something.
Suddenly alert, she listened intently. It sounded like footsteps. She
frowned, glancing at the door and seeing that it was still shut. The lock
appeared to be fastened, though from her angle it was hard to tell. She felt
a wave of fear roll over her as she hoped that she was just hearing things.
Another footstep and she'd bolt, she decided. She might make it to the door
faster than whatever the demon was. She closed her eyes, praying that she was
hearing things. When she failed to hear another footstep, she sighed in
relief. Goddess, she was hearing things now.
 

She suddenly felt something over her mouth. Her eyes widened as she looked
down and saw nothing. She gulped, pressing up and finding her head held down.
Her hands went up and she felt something. She began to struggle, her legs
kicking out as the force stayed on her mouth. She was breathing through her
nose, clawing at the unseen arm. She knew it had to be an arm, the fingers of
the demon covering her cheek and wrapping around her chin in a tight grip.
She tried to scream, hearing nothing except a whimper. Her eyes searched
where the demon had to be standing, seeing nothing. Goddess, what if she was
crazy and nothing was there. She heard the bed shift and gasped as she felt a
weight settle on her stomach.
 

She again screamed to no avail. Her hips were pushed against the mattress as
her attacker pushed against her. Tears fell from her eyes as she realized she
was completely alone locked in a room with someone that could not be seen. A
hand tore at her tank top, the sound of it ripping causing her to kick out. A
rough hand kneaded at her breast, causing her to cry out in anger and
disgust. She was going to be raped. This was far worse than anything she had
ever experienced. The knowledge that she could not fight him off. That she
honestly had no idea what he even was. She arched up, deciding he wans't
going to get without a fight. She tried to buck him off, but he was so heavy.
The hand tightened around her mouth, a finger suddenly blocking her nose. Her
fingernails dug into the air as she found that she couldn't breathe at all.
 

Spike heard his Red's heart racing with fear and anger and stopped outside
her door. He listened intently, hearing her struggle to breathe. He turned
the knob, pushing it open and freezing. She was laying on the bed, her shirt
torn open, revealing two perfect breasts. Her hands were clawing at the air
around her face as her body arched against the bed. Someone was holding her
down, he realized. He saw her eyes catch his, their green depths glazing over
as she obviously struggled to breathe. His own eyes narrowed and flashed
yellow as he saw his mate in pain. He moved forward, growling softly at
whatever demon dared touch what was his. He bared his teeth, flinching in
pain as he fell to his knees, his hands moving to his head.
 

Confusion crossed his face as he realized this wasn't a demon. It had to be a
human. He looked up, his eyes watching Willow's face her breast began to
move, giving him no doubt that her attacker was ignoring him completely and
continuing with his assault. He saw that she was breathing now, still
struggling against the hand holding her mouth. He got to his feet and
concentrated on her face. Seeing the pain that she was in and the disgust in
her eyes as the human (?) touched her without permission. He gathered his
strength and moved, running right into the area above her body. He fell to
the floor, someone underneath him. He heard Willow's gasps of air as she
struggled for breath. The pain from the implant blinded him momentarily but
he kept fighting, knowing that if he lost this thing would get his Willow.
Soon, the pain faded and there nothing except sheer joy in hurting this
demon.
 

Willow watched Spike fighting, sucking in deep breaths as her vision began to
clear. She had seen him fall, wondering if it had been the chip. If so, that
meant her attacker was a human. She didn't see how that could be possible so
there had to be another reason. She saw the blood form on his mouth as he
lashed out. It was hard for him, not being able to see his enemy. She glanced
at the blanket, remembering a cheesy old 80s movie that she and Xander had
seen once. She got the blanket off the bed, forgetting for a moment that her
shirt was hanging open. She tossed it over Spike and the demon, watching as
it formed a shape over the demon. She smiled as it worked. Spike growled,
hitting the area of the demon's head, knocking him off long enough for him to
stand and jump over Willow's bed. He grabbed her hand, pulling her after him
and out the door as the demon struggled to free itself of the blanket.
 

Willow ran after Spike, holding the sheet around her chest as they ran. She
was glad she'd remember to grab something to cover herself with before
leaving. She could just see running around campus half nude. Of course,
knowing what was chasing them, she didn't mind. She followed Spike, never
letting go of his hand as they entered the library. She frowned as he led her
to a door, glancing behind her to make sure no one was watching them. She
ducked in front of him, feeling him behind her as he closed the door.
 

"This way, luv," he whispered, pushing against the wood as a second door
opened. He held on to her, leading her down a staircase into the tunnels that
run under Sunnydale. They ran a bit more until he felt that they were far
enough away to stop. He slowed down, looking into her eyes. "Are you ok?"
 

She nodded, chewing on her bottom lip. "Because of you. He was going to..he
touched me..."
 

"Shh, pet," he said, pulling her into his arms. He closed his eyes briefly,
deciding that this creature was going to suffer more than anything he had
ever tortured. "Come along. We'll go to my place until tomorrow. Then, we'll
find Angel and Chubs. You are *not* going back to that dorm room."
 

"Ok," she whispered softly, knowing that she couldn't argue. She'd never be
able to lay on that bed again without remembering his hand on her mouth and
his hand on her breasts. She shivered, watching as Spike shrugged out of his
coat, pulling the leather around her. She breathed in the scent of cigarettes
and old leather and apples. Apples? She looked at Spike and smiled softly,
the unique scent seeming to fit him perfectly. She took his hand, following
him through the tunnels as he led her to his lair.

I'LL BE SEEING YOU (38/?)
 

Xander walked down the sterile white hallway, his dark eyes searching for
room 390. Finding it, he paused, taking a breath to steady himself. He
couldn't believe he was at the hospital again. Of course, this time he wasn't
the patient, but it was still almost frightening. He moved his hand to the
handle, the cool metal causing his fingers to twitch slightly. He turned the
knob, walking into the room. His dark eyes found Angel's immediately before
settling on the pale form laying on the bed. He felt his mouth dropping open
as he stared at the girl, surprised by the tubes that were hanging from her
arms and face. "Buffy?"
 

Angel tore his eyes off of Xander, relieved to see that the boy had made it
to the hospital unharmed. He had been more worried than he wanted to admit
about the boy, especially upon finding Buffy's body. He wasn't planning on
letting the teen out of his sight until this demon was found and killed. "Did
you run into any trouble?"
 

"No," Xander said, his voice quiet. He moved towards the bed, his eyes sad as
he looked into the broken face of his old friend. "Is she....is she ok?"
 

"She's stable but still unconscious," Angel said softly, seeing the stunned
look in those dark brown eyes. "Several broken ribs, a sprained wrist, a lot
of blood lost and there was internal bleeding. She was in surgery for a
couple of hours, when I first brought her in. The doctors have done all that
they can."
 

"If she wakes up," Xander asked, glancing from her face into Angel's, his
voice stumbling over the word if, "will she be all right?"
 

"We won't know until she wakes up," Angel said. He moved his hand, capturing
Xander's in his. He squeezed it in a reassuring way, not wanting Xander to
think there was anything to it except friendship, but wishing the boy could
understand half of what he was feeling at the moment. "She will wake up,
Xander. Buffy isn't going to let that bastard be her end."
 

"Yeah," Xander said, not moving his hand from Angel's. He smiled a shaky
smile at the vampire, not wanting the man to see how comforting the simple
feel of his hand against his was. "I mean, the Buffster has faced and
defeated the master. She even came back from death on that one. And the
Mayor? She kicked his ass. There's no way some stupid invisible coward is
going to be her death."
 

"Don't forget Angelus," Angel said softly, his dark eyes looking at the
bruised face of his former lover. "She survived him, she can survive this."
 

"Don't," Xander said quietly, studying the handsome man and seeing the frown
on his face. "No brooding. It's not allowed. Got it?"
 

"I wasn't brooding," Angel objected, glancing at Xander's face and seeing the
small smile on his face. "Ok..So I might have been sort of brooding."
 

"Sort of?" Xander said, laughing softly. A sharp beep caused the smile to
fade as he glanced at the girl laying on the bed. He sighed, reaching over
with his free hand to brush a lock of brownish blond hair away from her face.
She was always the strong one, the slayer that protected them even when they
didn't need it. Now, she looked so fragile. Her body was broken, her
heartbeat weak. He closed his eyes, seeing an image of her that first year, a
large smile on her face as she looked at them with love and friendship. What
had happened to their family? He opened his eyes again, looking into her face
as he whispered, "She's going to be OK. And Spike is going to save Willow and
Buffy is going to wake up and we're going to get a second chance to be
friends again." He looked at Angel, his eyes shimmering with unwept tears,
"Aren't we?"

I'LL BE SEEING YOU (39/?)
 

Willow sat on the cool marble slab, her eyes watching Spike pace back and
forth across the crypt floor. He had gone through three cigarettes and they
had only just arrived at his whatever this was. She couldn't really call it a
home because no matter what he was, she couldn't see anyone being happy
living in a crypt. She'd heard him talking once about finding an apartment,
but she didn't remember off hand if he had actually moved or not. She pulled
the sheet around her, the chilly night air making her shiver.
 

Spike tossed the remainder of his cigarette to the ground, turning when he
heard Willow sigh. He watched her, seeing the obvious discomfort she was
feeling with the cool night air and the thin sheet wrapped around her body.
He moved forward, unbuttoning his red shirt and handing it to her. "Put this
on."
 

Willow took the shirt, her eyes wide at his gruff tone. Why was he acting so
angry? She put the shirt on, buttoning it and letting the sheet drop to her
lap. She was still cold, but this helped a bit. "Is everything ok?"
 

"No," he said, looking at her in surprise. "You bloody well could have been
raped tonight, or worse. If I hadn't come in when I had, well..."
 

"But you did," she said softly, watching his face. "You protected me, just
like you promised."
 

"But I almost failed you," he said, his eyes looking into hers. "I almost
lost you tonight, pet."
 

"That upsets you?" she asked, her smile crooked.
 

"It bloody well scares me to death," he admitted in a quite voice. He moved
towards her, his eyes never leaving hers. "When I walked into that room
tonight, seeing you fighting and being attacked, I lost it. I almost failed,
luv. For some stupid reason, I couldn't fight him. Just froze with that damn
headache."
 

"But you did," she reminded again. "You got him before he could do anything
worse than touch me. If you hadn't come in when you did, my god, he'd have
raped me and I never would have seen his face! I was so happy to see you come
in tonight. Seeing you, well, I knew everything would be all right. You make
me feel safe for some silly reason."
 

"Safe, eh?" he repeated, not sure if he liked making a human feel safe. He
saw her small smile and the deep green in her eyes and sighed, his hand
brushing against her cheek. "I don't understand this, pet."
 

"This?" she questioned.
 

"This," he made a gesture with his free hand, "whatever is happening between
us. I'm a killer, luv. Or I will be as soon as I get this damned implant
removed. And you're a human. A sweet, innocent, wonderful human that has one
of the purest souls I've ever met. We shouldn't be here, like this. I should
just take you to the moron, let Chubs watch after you until I find this demon
and destroy it."
 

"Who says?" she asked, a flash of anger making her eyes light up. "I don't
remember receiving some sort of rule book about love. I mean, if you did,
please share the copy with me because right now I can't stop myself from
feeling what I feel for you. I think it could be love, but I honestly can't
swear it. I know that I love to be with you, love to see your face and hear
your voice. I feel safe with you, protected. And I want you. I want you to be
the one to take my virginity, to wake up in your arms and feel your body
against mine. I've never felt that before with anyone. Is that love? Because
I'm feeling so confused right now, and I'm scared to death that you're going
to run away from whatever this is without even giving it a chance. The
thought that this might be the last time I see you, feel you, well, that
scares me more than the demon ever has."
 

"You're upset," he said roughly, "you don't know what you're saying or
feeling. This can't happen between us, doll. No matter what I feel for you,
I'm not the one meant to be in your life."
 

"How do you know?" she asked, hope flaring in her eyes at his words. He felt
something for her, or so he said. "Maybe this *is* what was meant to be. How
can you just leave without finding out?"
 

"Easy," he said gruffly, moving towards the door. "I'll find the moron and
tell him where you are. I'll let him know when I kill that bastard demon."
 

"Fine," she said, wiping the tears of frustration and fear and anger off of
her face. "Run away like a scared little boy. That's all you do, isn't it?
Never take any chances for fear you might find yourself happy. God, you're
worse than Angel. At least he's trying for a life with Xander, even if
neither of them realizes it yet. Just leave. I hope I never see you again,
you coward!"
 

Spike turned to face her, his eyes narrowed and yellow. He knew what she was
trying to do, knew that she didn't really mean her words. She was confused,
maybe even had a slight crush on him. He saw the look of desperation in her
eyes and faltered. Could she really have feelings for him? Knowing what he
was, what he had done. Could she really love him? For a moment, he forgot the
demon that was stalking her. He forgot about the slayer, his sire or the
moron. He forgot about Drusilla and the hell she had pulled him through. He
thought only of the beautiful redhead innocent that had become his life the
past few months. Moving forward, he saw her eyes begin to widen. "When I saw
him obviously touching you, I could barely control the demon. You're mine, it
screamed inside my head. The demon wanted blood, pet."
 

"Yours?" she whispered, mesmerized by his husky voice and the yellow-blue of
his eyes.
 

He smiled, his hand snaking behind her head as his mouth moved towards hers.
"Mine," he said, giving her a moment to run or say no. When she only nodded
her agreement, he felt a peace enter his heart, his demon merging with his
mind as his lips claimed hers.

I'LL BE SEEING YOU (40/?)
 

Riley opened his eyes, his vision blurred as he tried to place his
surroundings. Remembering, he frowned. He stood, looking around the quiet
dorm room. Willow had gotten away. Not only that, but she had fought him. She
had moved away from his touch, the look of disgust evident in those green
eyes. She hadn't known it was him, he reasoned. But, she should have known
his touch. She should have craved it as he did hers. Why was she denying the
truth? She belonged to him. This did not change that knowledge. If anything,
it just made him more determined to see Xander Harris lying dead at his feet.
 

It had been dark in her room, but he knew Xander was the one that had saved
her. That moron always seemed to be around, trying to take Willow away from
him. He had honestly thought he would have a free evening with his Willow.
He'd teach her what love felt like and, when she was begging for his touch,
he would show her his face. Let her know who had brought her such pleasure.
That bastard had ruined it though. Sneaking in and catching him off guard
that way. He knew it was partially his own fault, letting his defenses down.
He should have locked the door, but in his haste to be buried inside her
finally, he had forgotten the most trivial thing. Next time, he would know
better.
 

No, he corrected mentally, next time Xander would be dead so there would be
no threat. He looked at the bed, wondering where Willow had gone. He frowned,
knowing she must be at the basement with that little prick. He let his
concentration fade, not wanting to waste the last of the drug that was in his
system. He glanced down, seeing his body materialize in the soft glow from
the lamp. Willow must be so confused right now, he decided. Knowing she
belonged to him but having that bastard trying to keep them apart. He sighed,
his hand on his belt. He unfastened his pants, pushing them down and kicking
them off. Moving to her bed, he pulled his shirt over his head. He stood
nude, his eyes remembering how she had looked underneath him. Like a goddess,
with her red hair framing that beautiful face. Her perky breasts the perfect
size for his hands, her nipples hardened against his palm as she had pushed
against him. Those long legs, muscular and pale thrashing against his body.
His cock hardened, the tip leaking his white seed as he continued remembering
her body in detail.
 

He knelt on the end of her mattress, crawling up the bed as her scent began
to soothe him. He laid down, his face buried in her pillow. His hand blindly
reached for her tank top, finding the torn scrap by the bed. Bringing the
material to his face, he inhaled her scent as he began to thrust slowly into
her bed. His eyes closed as he began to move, his ass cheeks clenching with
each thrust. He could imagine her underneath him, her scent helping the
fantasy. He moved his hand, running her cotton shirt over his chest as he
moved. His nipples hardened into dark brown buds from the roughness of the
cotton as he ventured lower. He grasped his erection, arching against his
hand. He began to move faster, the feeling of the shirt wrapping around his
cock too much for him to control. He groaned, his seed spilling onto her bed
and her shirt as he came. Collapsing, he opened his eyes and saw that he was
alone. He moved his hand and brought her shirt up to his face. His tongue
snaked out and licked at the milky white substance. He found himself
wondering what she tasted like. Soon, he would find out.
 

He was tired of Xander keeping them apart. He had disposed of the initiative
and the slayer for getting between him and his Willow. He had thought Xander
would stay away after the attack, but that stupid boy didn't seem to want to
get the hint. Well, he was finished with playing silly games. By the end of
the week, Willow was going to be his, whether she liked it or not. That
decision made, he closed his eyes and snuggled deeper against her smell.
Contentment washed over him as he slowly drifted off to sleep.
 

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