Disclaimer: Joss owns them all
Distribution: My site, Kiss or Kill, http://members.fortunecity.com/kissorkill Anyone that has permission, take. Otherwise, just ask.
Rating: R
Pairing: Willow/Spike
Feedback is a wonderful thing so send some today! It's very east to do, just hit reply, write something nice, and then hit send....it helps convince my muse to write more :)
Notes: Part three and Spike are now here! Hope you enjoy! More soon once I feel better and find some time!
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~Part: 1~
Willow laughed at something Jurgy said, rolling her eyes at the seven-foot demon that worked for her, "Get to work and quit trying to distract me!"
Jurgy smiled at the human, bowing slightly as he responded, "Yes, ma'am. Getting to work, Boss Lady."
Willow shook her head as she moved away from his desk and made her way to her desk. It was Wednesday night and her third day of work. She loved it already. The vampires and demons that Lio employed were nice and friendly and didn't seem to have any problems taking orders from a human. In fact, they seemed to accept her completely. She figured a part of it could be the magic and power that they had to feel. She knew it was there, surrounding her in a comforting way. She sat in her chair, looking around the office. It wasn't really much of an office. There were several desks, some file cabinets, phones and computers. She was fast learner and hadn't really run into any problems yet. From what the employees had told her, Lio ran a tight ship and they rarely had to deal with anything out of the ordinary. It made her job easier, which wasn't something she could complain about.
Things were going extremely well so far. Gunn had interviewed with Mae on Monday, accepting a part time position that he had started today. She and Faith had stopped in to meet him for lunch that afternoon and had met Mae, his new boss and shop owner. She was a vibrant woman with a welcoming smile and wonderful personality. She had seemed very nice and had a slight aura of magic about her. She and Willow had instantly hit it off, and Willow knew where she would go shopping for any supplies she might need for her practice. Faith had even liked her which was really saying something. Faith was great but tended to dislike people until they had proven worthy of her admiration. Mae had won her over, Willow suspected, when the older woman had scolded Gunn for teasing Faith. She'd winked at Faith and the slayer had declared her a kindred spirit. Willow wasn't quite sure if that was a compliment or not. Gunn had seemed surprised at the scolding until Mae had laughed and explained that she was just messing with him. He'd been okay after that, having gotten a lot of practice lately at ignoring teasing from females. And, compared to Faith and Willow, Mae was a novice at best.
Lorne and Lio had been out together every night. It was so sweet, watching them flirt and touch and pretty much falling in love. Lorne so deserved that happiness and Willow was thrilled that he had found someone to appreciate it him the way he deserved. She was meeting all of them at the house after work. Faith had mentioned cooking, which was one reason Willow wasn't in too big a hurry to get home. The slayer loved to eat, appreciated everything there was to appreciate about food, but Willow wasn't too sure about Faith in a kitchen. Since a large part of cooking was following instructions and obeying orders, and those were two things Faith did not like to do, Willow was a bit scared if the kitchen would be standing by the time she got home. Of course, Faith was determined when it came to things she wanted to do so Willow might be pleasantly surprised. Either way, Faith had decided to try her hand at cooking which would certainly prove interesting. After dinner, she wasn't sure what was planned. It would probably be a nice stay at home night. She felt like crashing on the sofa and watching brainless television programs for a few hours.
She might make some notes about the club. They were supposed to start discussing their ideas for the club soon, having decided to wait until everything had been approved and they could actually start working on the new place. Willow had already been brainstorming, having come up with some ideas that she thought would be great and that Lorne would really love. She couldn't take complete credit for the main idea, having been struck with inspiration while in the Mardi Gras room at home. She knew it would be perfect and had already started doing some research on decorations and stuff. Faith kept telling her she was too organized and that she needed to act impulsively some times, that she needed to take chances and do things that weren't planned out in detail. While Willow had to agree that she could sometimes be a bit boring, she didn't think she was that bad. Faith had disagreed, forcing Willow to promise to try to do at least one rash thing a week. Willow wasn't exactly sure what her friend's definition of rash was, but she figured it couldn't be all that bad. Besides, she knew that Faith was right in a way and that she needed to some chances once in a while. It would be fun.
"Here's the listing you asked for," Carmen said as she handed the stack of papers to Willow. She smiled at the witch, really liking the new girl. There was just something about the redhead that all of them liked. She and her co-workers had had the discussion the previous afternoon concerning their new boss. It was all agreed that she was adorable. Willow was accepting and nonjudgmental, could look them all in the eyes without flinching, had a sense of strength about her that was threatening without being overpowering, and was easily someone they could all respect and trust. In less than three days, the redhead had gained admiration and loyalty from all of them. Carmen was really glad that Basilio had discovered the human.
"Thanks, Carmen," Willow smiled at the vampire as she came out of her thoughts. "So this is a list of everyone that is currently in town?"
"Everyone registered through the weekend," Carmen confirmed. "I updated the data base an hour ago and we haven't had anyone call or stop in since then."
"Wow," Willow flipped through the pages, "there are a lot of visitors."
"It's summer," Carmen explained with a smile, "the tourists aren't as thick so there isn't as much temptation for certain races of demon. Summer is one of our busiest times. The holidays are the slowest. I mean, they're all willing to follow Lio's rules, but it's much easier when there aren't swarms of humans around."
"I can understand that logic," Willow smiled back. "Do you know of anything else I need to do tonight?"
"Not really," Carmen shrugged, "Mike usually only came by for a couple of hours to take care of anything that needed his attention and then he was out and about the rest of the time. He'd always have his phone so we could reach him if there were any problems, but he was rarely here."
"Okay," Willow's expression grew thoughtful, "well, I guess I'll finish organizing my desk and see if there is anything else I have questions about. After that, we'll see."
"If you need anything else, let me know, Willow," Carmen offered. "I'm going to go back to my desk to work on the data base."
Willow turned her attention to her desk, having waited to arrange it until she had an understanding over how everything worked. She hadn't wanted to waste time testing pens for ink when she needed to learn the rules. As it was, Lio had been right. Everything was running so smoothly that it didn't take long to learn the procedures and protocol. She would easily be able to carry out her duties as Lio's assistant and still have time to help Lorne with the club. She was relieved to actually realize that it would be possible. There was always doubt until you saw the reality. Deciding that her desk could wait a few more minutes, she signed on to her personal email account and started a letter to Buffy. She told the blonde everything that had happened since she had last phoned, which had been Saturday evening. She had just hit send when she heard Jurgy speaking to someone. It appeared that they had someone registering. She hadn't even heard the door open, too busy giving Buffy all the details about her job and the people she worked with. She looked up out of curiosity, her eyes widening when she saw the man sitting in the chair in front of Jurgy's desk, his long fingers tapping impatiently on the desk. A small smile crossed her face as she recognized him. Spike.
~Part: 2~
She couldn't believe it. Spike was sitting not ten feet away from her. What was he doing in New Orleans? She hadn't seen him since shortly after the battle. He'd said good-bye and was gone. She sat back in her chair, her green eyes moving over him. He looked well. Who was she kidding? He looked damn good. Spike always looked good. Even in the worst circumstances, the vampire could still give off a sexy and dangerous vibe that never failed to excite her. They had become friends after Buffy's death, had spent hours talking. When Buffy had come back, well, they hadn't spent a lot of time together. The last six months, though, they had sort of settled back into that comfortable friendship of before. She knew that Spike didn't have many friends, that he never allowed himself to become close to people for reasons she'd probably never understand, so she considered herself very lucky that he had let her inside even just a little. She'd felt sad at seeing him leave, but understood that he needed to figure out how to deal with his soul and everything that had happened to him. She'd honestly thought she'd never see him again. And now here he was in New Orleans.
She stood up and slowly started to walk towards him, wanting to talk to him, wanting to see how he was doing. She continued to study him as he spoke to Jurgy, answering the questions needed to give him permission to remain in New Orleans. She realized that he looked tired. His blue eyes looked lost, like he wasn't sure where he was going or what he should be doing. She recognized that look. She'd seen it in her own eyes many a day as she had looked in the mirror while in Sunnydale. She felt like going to him and hugging him, letting him know that he wasn't alone, that he had a friend that cared. Instead, she kept walking slowly, knowing that they weren't close enough friends for a hug. They had spent hours talking, but rarely about anything very important. He'd rarely let any details about his life slip, guarding his past and his thoughts and his emotions closely. He'd been hurt and she hadn't been stupid enough to try pushing him into talking about anything he hadn't wanted to talk about so they'd talked about movies and music and patrol. Once in a while, he'd tell her a story about somewhere he had been in the past, and Willow had paid attention, sometimes understanding more from what he hadn't said than from his words. But, she couldn't fool herself into thinking she had any idea who Spike really was, about what made him tick, anymore than he really knew her. She was Buffy's best friend, someone he could tolerate without feeling a need to kill, the witch that had sometimes made his life hell with botched spells, and that was about it.
She listened as Jurgy asked him for the location of where he would be staying, frowning when he didn't answer, realizing that he had nowhere to stay. She didn't like the idea of her friend not having somewhere to stay. Okay, so they weren't best friends or anything, but they had been friends. Besides, he had helped save the world several times. That was enough for Willow. She would never turn her back on anyone she considered a friend and she wasn't about to start now. If she was right and he didn't have anywhere to stay, she'd ask him to stay with her and the others.
Jurgy frowned at the vampire, "I need to know where you'll be staying. If you don't have somewhere to stay, I'll have to ask the boss what she wants to do."
"Then ask her," Spike said, seriously thinking that it wasn't worth all this trouble. He could just drive on, maybe to Alabama or somewhere. It no longer mattered that New Orleans had seemed right for some reason. He was probably just crazy anyway. He'd been supposed to leave Houston on Monday but had been delayed a couple of days because Klor had wanted him to stay for a birthday party. He'd owed his friends so he'd stayed. His night hadn't been a good one and this was just a topper. He'd gotten stuck in traffic outside of Beaumont, his car barely moving for what had seemed like hours. When he'd finally pulled into New Orleans, it had taken him awhile to find parking, which hadn't helped his mood. And now he was sitting here being reminded by an ugly damn demon that he was alone, that he didn't have anywhere to stay. If he hadn't been a bit worried about the reaction of the master of this town, he'd have done a bit of damage to that pompous ass whining at him right now.
"Boss Lady," Jurgy called out to get Willow's attention, looking up in surprise to find her already near his desk. "Hey, that was quick. Slight problem here. This vampire doesn't have an address to list in his file. We can either accept him with a temporary address, or we can send him away. It's you're call."
Spike turned to glare at the female that would decide his fate, his eyes widening when he saw his redheaded witch. He couldn't keep the surprise out of his voice as he softly whispered, "Willow?"
Willow smiled at him, not used to hearing him use her real name. He was obviously surprised to see her, "Hi Spike. How are you?"
"You know this….creature?" Jurgy asked, his large eyes narrowing as he looked at the vampire that had been annoying him with his lack of precise answers. He stood, moving protectively behind the small redhead.
"He's a friend," Willow said, watching the emotions flashing in Spike's blue eyes. She glanced at Jurgy, nearly laughing at the suspicious look he was ending Spike, telling him, "Sit down, Jurgy."
"Fancy meeting you here, luv," Spike finally said, trying not to betray the pleasure he felt at hearing her call him friend. He had a lot of questions, starting with why she had been called boss lady by the hulking demon that had resumed sitting to what she was doing in New Orleans. He decided to ask the latter question first. "What are you doing here, Red?"
"Working," Willow replied, glad to see that he had relaxed since she had joined the conversation. She'd seen the glares he had been sending Jurgy's way, knowing it was a perfect time to interrupt. Looking at him more closely, she knew she was right. He was tired and lost. She continued, "But, I've finished for the night and am about to leave."
"Working?" Spike waited, wanting to ask more questions but not wanting to appear like he really cared all that much. He couldn't even describe what he was feeling at the moment. He couldn't remember a time in recent memory when he had felt so relieved to see a friendly face. It didn't hurt that it was Willow's face he was seeing. He'd never expected to see her again, having no plans to go back to Sunnydale and the life had left there. It was unbelievable that he had run into her again, the only one of the slayer's little band of helpers that he had liked, the only person in all of Sunnydale that he had respected and considered a friend. Truthfully, he only friend he'd made in the last decade or so. What were the chances?
Willow nodded, smiling at him, "Yeah, working. It's a long story, Spike. We can talk about it later. Are you hungry? Do you need food? Basilio has a supplier not that far from here. I can show you on the way home."
"Home?" Spike repeated, still trying to get over the fact that he'd met up again with his witch and she was talking about food and suppliers as if meeting him hadn't been a surprise at all. He'd have thought that seeing her would bring forth memories of Buffy and how horrible his life had been. Instead, the sight of her made him remember all their conversations, the beginning of a friendship that had started between them, and the good things that had happened in Sunnydale. True, there were very few happy memories of that place and the last few years, but Red was definitely one of them. Besides, she wasn't looking at him with pity or disgust. She was looking at him as if she had just stumbled upon a long lost friend. He wondered if the same look was in his eyes, not really caring if it was. He now understood why he had been drawn to New Orleans. Maybe it was finally time for his life to start getting better.
"Home," Willow said, glancing at Jurgy who had been watching with interest, "Put my address down on Spike's file. He'll be staying with me indefinitely," she turned to look back at Spike, doubt suddenly flashing in her green eyes, "that is, do you want to stay with me? I have a spare room and everything, but you don't have to say yes just because we were friends back home."
Jurgy made a notation on the file, not sure if it was a good idea for Willow to be inviting dangerous vampires to be staying with her. True, it appeared that they did know each other and might even be friends, but he was always a bit suspicious of out of town vamps, never trusting them until they'd proven they deserved his trust. And he wasn't too happy about the idea of letting his new boss leave with this punk throwback to the eighties, already considering the redhead a friend and surrogate kid sister in many ways. Deciding that he trusted Willow, he kept his mouth shut.
"Red, I'd love to stay with you," Spike said sincerely after having to think about it for a second, deciding that he could ask all of his questions when they got to her place, after she told him the long story that he was curious to hear. Despite everything that had happened, she still considered him a friend.
"Well, you say that now," Willow laughed, relieved that he hadn't denied their friendship. She hoped the others would be okay with him taking one of the spare rooms while he was in town. She didn't think there would be any problems with them, though. They had plenty of room and Spike was her friend. He wouldn't be much of a bother, she suspected. She explained to him, seeing the look of curiosity in his blue eyes, "I share a place with Faith, Lorne and Gunn, so be warned."
"The slayer?" Spike grimaced placing her name immediately. The others were familiar, a groan coming from him as he placed them, "Not that perky green poofster and the glaring black kid, too. All three, pet? It's like some new form of torture, isn't it?"
"Yep, I'm afraid so," Willow had to smile. She'd missed Spike. He could always seem to make her smile, "They're not that bad, Spike. Quit whining or I'll take back my invitation."
"I guess I can tolerate them for a bit," he said, catching her amused eyes and winking, "the things I do for you, luv."
"You mean, the things you do for a nice comfortable bed and free place to stay," Willow corrected with a smirk, easily falling back into their routine of teasing.
"Come on, witch," Spike stood, feeling better than he had in weeks as he looked at Willow and said, "let's get out of here. You've got a long story to tell me that I'm eager to hear. Take me home, Red."
~Part: 3~
"She's pretty cool," Gunn answered Lorne's question concerning his new boss. He shrugged, sitting back on the sofa and putting his feet on the table, "I mean, she's a bit weird but nice."
"Feet off the table, Chuck," Faith said, kicking his leg with her bare foot before saying, "Fuck it. Will isn't here to scold us, anyway," as she put her own feet on the coffee table. "I liked her, Lorne. She was eccentric but not over the top."
"Yeah, like she said," Gunn said, taking a drink of his soda. "Oh, and I did meet her husband before I left. Not what I expected."
"What do you mean, not what you expected?" Lorne asked as he glanced at the clock. Willow would be home before long, he figured. It was nearly eleven, and the redhead had been in by midnight all three nights of work so far.
"I don't know," Gunn frowned, trying to explain, "I mean, he's black."
"And?" Faith asked, arching a brow, ready to bring up Twiggy if Gunn got all weird on her about Mae being married to a black man.
"Whatever, I so don't care that she's white and he's black," Gunn defended with a roll of his eyes, "it's just that he's this massive guy, at least six foot six and she's this tiny plump woman. He wasn't what I expected."
"So you were so shocked to see a tall man married to a short woman? I don't buy it, babe," Faith said with an amused smile.
"Shut up, slayer," Gunn finally said. "Moving past this, I'll just say that Al is a nice guy and that they seem very happy in that sickeningly sweet nausea inducing kind of way that single people hate."
"I'm glad you enjoyed your first day of work. What's her husband do?" Lorne asked, glad to see that Gunn seemed to like his new boss and job.
"I think he's a chef or something," Gunn said, almost laughing when Faith sat up straighter, her eyes curious.
"A chef? He cooks? He works with food?" Faith asked, having to smile, "I think I like this guy already! Not that I had any doubts cause I liked Mae and I doubt she'd be married to someone I wouldn't like."
"Yes, he cooks," Gunn rolled his eyes, "works at some Cajun place here in the Quarter."
"We'll have to go by and say hi some time," Faith decided, "I like Cajun food."
"You like all food, Sassy," Lio said with a smile at the slayer.
Faith looked at the master vampire of New Orleans and stuck her tongue out at him, "Vampy, you seem to forget that I am the vampire slayer. You'd better be nice to me or I'll have to remind you how I got that title."
"No one else wanted it," Gunn dead panned causing Lorne and Lio to laugh.
"Where's Willow?" Faith demanded though her eyes were amused, "If she doesn't get here soon to referee, I'm gonna have to kick some ass."
"Charles, quit picking on Faith," Lorne said before turning to Lio, "Hon, quit picking on the slayer."
"But, Daaaaad," two male voices spoke up before dissolving into laughter.
"Shit," Faith suddenly sat up, glancing at the clock and then at the kitchen, "Thinking about cooking made me remember that I was supposed to cook dinner tonight."
"And you're trying to kill us why?" Gunn asked, shuddering violently at the idea of Faith cooking. "I'm too young to die," he moaned as he continued making gagging noises and moving on the sofa to hold his stomach.
"Would you like my list of reasons I'd kill you now or can I just say them as your eulogy?" Faith asked sweetly before tossing her pillow at the man that was still making gagging noises.
"Okay, I have to speak up on this one, Sweetcakes," Lorne said, "when have you ever cooked a dinner before?"
"I can make soup," Faith said defensively before smiling sheepishly, "Sort of burn it usually but it isn't too bad. Hey, I need a hobby. I thought cooking might be cool."
"Cooking might be cool?" Lio repeated, sharing a frightened look with Lorne. "Pray for the kitchen."
"I heard that," Faith glared at him, wishing she had another pillow to throw. Gunn had just taken the one she had thrown at him and put it behind his fat head, smiling smugly now that she no longer had it.
"I think we should start cleaning out the club tomorrow," Lorne smiled at Faith, "it's pretty messy in there and we've still got awhile before everything gets approved. What do you think?"
"That you don't want me to cook," Faith pouted though she finally had to smile, "Okay, fine, I get it. I won't try cooking, yet. Good idea about starting clean-up downstairs Lorne. We can start in the morning, after breakfast."
"I can hear Willow coming," Lio said with an affectionate smile, his eyes narrowing as he sniffed the air. Vampire. He could feel the power and strength already. Master vampire. He was instantly alert and on his feet, his eyes on the stairs.
"Hey, Red, they wouldn't let me cook," Faith called out, thankful that someone was finally home to take her side.
"When did they get so smart?" Willow asked with a laugh as she made it up the stairs. She could feel Spike behind her, though they hadn't really spoken since leaving the office. Sam had driven them home, giving them very little time to talk. She had heard that he'd been driving around and staying with friends and she told him she'd arrived the previous week. By that time, they'd been home. She had invited him in, feeling no threat from him at all. She trusted Spike with her life, and knew he'd never do anything deliberately to hurt her or her friends, even if he sometimes wanted to. She felt their eyes on her and hoped they wouldn't freak out. Acting as if Spike standing behind her was a normal thing, she smiled and said, "Honeys, I'm home!"
"You're supposed to be on my side, Red," Faith whined, her eyes widening when she saw the familiar blond come up the stairs and move to stand behind Willow, his blue eyes cautious and alert as he leaned down to whisper something in Willow's ear. Hello, hottie, she thought as she looked from the bleached blond to her best friend. She was dying to ask questions, wanting to know what the hell Spike was doing with Willow, why he was there at their house, and why Willow was looking at them with nervous eyes. Looking into Willow's eyes, several things suddenly clicked. Spike was alone. He probably didn't know anyone in town. He must have gone in to register which is where Willow found him. She was pretty proud of her deductive abilities, deciding to read more mysteries because they made her feel smart. She'd get Willow alone soon enough to find out if she was right. Until then, she'd try to be nice to Blondie so Willow wouldn't get pissed at her. Giving Spike a crooked smile, she turned her attention to Willow and said, "Glad you're finally home, babe. Scold them all! They've been picking on me!"
~Part: 4~
"Have not," Gunn defended, his dark eyes watching the bleached blond vampire cautiously. He'd never really spent much time with Spike during the few days they'd fought together in Sunnydale, but he had seen enough to know that the vampire could be trusted so he followed Faith's lead and acted as if he had intended to see Spike coming home with Willow. Besides, who was he to protest the souled vampire staying with them, as it appeared that Willow intended for him to do, when the master of New Orleans was sitting on the other sofa opposite him at this very minute.
"Have too!" Faith said as she got to her feet. "Don't believe him, Red. He's lying. They've been picking on me since you left this evening."
"Vampire," Spike whispered in Willow's ear, his eyes looking from the three semi-familiar faces to focus on the smug pretty boy that was glaring at him. What was a vampire of that age and strength doing here?
"Bella, I sincerely hope you know that the man behind you is a vampire," Lio said as he watched the blond carefully, "because I do fear that ash might not come out of this rug easily."
"I think you're right," Willow said, looking at the rug in question. "I figure the ash would get caught and be terrible to try to get out even with a vacuum."
"Red," Spike's voice was warning, his eyes on the vampire that was looking at him with distrust mixed with amusement. He'd been glad to see the redhead at the registration office, happy to see a familiar and friendly face and pleased at the idea of having somewhere to stay for a bit. Then, he'd followed her down to a limo, the driver teasing her in a way that gave no doubt they were friends. Why was a limo picking her up? When they had pulled up to this fantastic house with the empty business underneath, he had had even more questions. He'd remained silent, not wanting to appear too curious but fighting the urge to lock the redhead into a room with him until she answered all his questions. Now, he was in the living room being ignored by a slayer, a demon, and a demon hunter who all seemed more concerned in getting Red's attention than in asking what he was doing there. And there was what appeared to be a master vampire giving him a threatening look along with a verbal threat. And what was with that Bella business? Who did this pretty boy poofster think he was?
"Oh, sorry," Willow smiled at Spike and said, "This is Basilio. Lio, this is my friend Spike. And yes, I do know he's a vampire so there won't be any ash in my rug after all!"
"Spike?" Basilio repeated, trying to remember where he had heard that name. It came to him, stories of Spike and Angelus slaughtering their way across Europe during the last century, tales of an implant preventing the vampire from feeding, rumors of a soul. He looked into blue eyes that were watching him closely, realizing that the soul was no rumor. He watched as the blond moved closer to Willow, seemingly ready to protect her if there was a threat. What was it about the redhead that brought out that instinct in his kind? Okay, not all of his kind. The more immature and stupid would just want to taste her powerful blood with no thoughts of keeping her. Everyone in his family that had met her so far had fallen in love instantly, already talking about the witch as if she had always been part of them, taking a protective interest in her well being. She had dozens of brothers and sisters now even though she didn't seem to realize it. He nodded as he again said, "Spike."
"Not too bright, is he?" Spike asked Willow, giving the other vampire a glare, "Ya just like sayin' my name, don't ya? Bloody damn poofster."
"Spike, be nice," Willow said as she rolled her eyes, "Sorry, I forgot who I was talking to. Ignore him, Lio. He's been driving a while. Besides, he tends to get grumpy when he's hungry."
"I do not," Spike defended with a frown at the redhead.
"Do too," she shot back with a slight smile. She then looked at Lio and explained, "Spike used to live with me in Sunnydale. I mean, he lived in the basement of the house I shared with my best friend and her sister. I ran into him tonight at the office and asked him to stay here while he was in town. Is that okay with you guys?"
"We've got three rooms he can choose from," Gunn replied with a shrug. He didn't care if the vampire stayed. Any friend of Willow's was welcome as long as he didn't try to bite.
"Cupcake, he can stay as long as you want," Lorne said with a smile at the redhead.
"Blondie's cool," was Faith's decision, "doesn't brood as much as Fang, which is a plus. You'll like him, Vampy. He's a pain in the ass but he's good to have on your side."
"Somehow I find it easy to believe he's a pain in the ass," Lio said with a smile at the slayer. Turning his attention back to Willow, he said, "How was work today?"
"It was great," Willow smiled. "Everyone is so nice and helpful. I'm learning a lot and think it won't be long before I've got everything organized."
"That's good," Lio nodded. He glanced at the blond vampire and asked, "Bella mentioned that you were hungry. Do you have something or would you like me to make some arrangements?"
"Red," Spike stressed his favorite nickname for his witch, "showed me where the supplier is on the drive home. I think I can handle it myself."
"Of course," Lio's eyes grew speculative as he looked from the vampire to Willow and back again. Suddenly smiling, he said, "So, kid, how long are you staying in my city?"
"Your city?" Spike asked, his eyes flashing at the kid comment, "And who are you calling kid?"
"New Orleans is my city, boy," Lio explained with an amused gleam in his eyes, "what, with me being the master and all that."
"Bloody hell, pet," Spike rolled his eyes and glared at Willow. He'd know the vampire was strong and had a feeling he might be a master, but he had no idea it was the master of New Orleans. "You've only been in town a week and you've already adopted the master?"
"Whining doesn't suit you, Blondie," Faith said with a laugh. "And he adopted us!"
"We need to talk, luv," Spike said after he studied a smiling Willow for several silent seconds.
"We are talking, Spike," she replied with a laugh.
"Damn it, witch," Spike muttered, wanting to find out why the master of the city was sitting on her sofa as if he belonged there, along with a couple of dozen other questions that were in his mind. "You know what I mean."
"She's right," Faith whispered loudly, "he does get grumpy when he's hungry."
"I am not grumpy," Spike glared at the grinning slayer, wondering if he was in some sort of hell at the moment. Prissy master vampires, giggling slayers, and no answers to his damn questions.
"Guys, stop," Willow finally spoke up, knowing that he was starting to get annoyed. She could recognize most of Spike's moods after being around him for four years. She touched his arm, causing him to look at her, "Why don't we go upstairs and let you pick out a room? I believe I still owe you that long story."
"Will, Chuck and I are going to pick up some take out. You want?" Faith asked the redhead before she could go upstairs.
"A cheeseburger," Willow answered, her eyes glancing at Spike for a second.
"We'll pick up some AB for Blondie while we're out," Faith said as she received a thankful smile from the redhead.
"We're going out, Bella," Lio said as he stood. He moved towards Willow, brushing his lips against her forehead as he said, "I'll see you later."
"Get him settled in, Cupcake," Lorne whispered in her ear as he hugged her. "He looks like he needs a friend."
"I will," Willow smiled at him, waving at him and Lio as they walked down the stairs. She turned her attention to Spike and said, "Follow me, Spike. You can choose your room."
Spike relaxed once he felt the vampire leave, giving his witch a smile as a flash of excitement entered his blue eyes before he said, "I get to pick a room?"
"There are three empty rooms," Willow said with a laugh, "so you can take whichever one you want. Faith and I are the only ones that are living upstairs. Gunn and Lorne are down here. Isn't this house great? I absolutely love it!"
"Quit talking, Red," Spike said as he followed her up the stairs, "I want to pick a room and then I want my story!"
~Part: 5~
"Where are the rooms?" Spike asked, feeling much like a child on Christmas. He was so excited at the idea of choosing his own room that it was almost embarrassing. If it was anyone other than Willow, he would have played it cool and acted like he didn't care at all. But, with her, he could relax and be himself in a way that he couldn't with anyone else. It was one of the reasons he could call her friend. She never judged him or expected anything from him.
"Okay, there are three, like I said," Willow smiled at him, wondering if he had any idea how young he appeared when he was like this. "Two are over here. This is the corner room."
Spike looked into the room, watching as she turned the light on. He looked around, his brow arching as he looked at the bright colors and clutter that covered the walls. It wouldn't be bad if it wasn't for all the knick knacks and the large doors that opened onto the balcony. Wouldn't be too smart during the day. He looked at Willow, "Where are the other ones?"
"I think sunlight might be a problem in this room," Willow observed, having not considered the vampire/sun issue. "The other two rooms are in the middle so there's only one window in those. Should be easy enough to cover up. One is right next door."
"Oh God," he cringed as he looked at all the peach and cream that covered the room. "It's like a nightmare in pastel."
"Yeah, it doesn't scream out Spike, does it?" she laughed at the look of horror on his handsome face. "Okay, here's the third. It's in between my bedroom and the bathroom."
He entered the room, looking at the shades of blue and solid furniture, nodding as he said, "This is the one. I like it."
"It was my second favorite," Willow confessed with a smile as she moved to sit in the comfy chair. "But my bedroom was just too perfect. Plus, it has this great balcony that overlooks Royal and runs along the front to Faith's room. It's great to just sit out at night and just watch all the people walking around."
"Ah," Spike moaned as he fell on the bed, bouncing slightly as a look of bliss crossed his face. It was the most comfortable he could remember being in years.
Willow quit babbling when she realized that Spike wasn't listening. A soft smile crossed her face as she watched him, realizing that she had made the right decision in asking him to stay with them. She'd expected it to be weird, but it was the opposite. She felt relaxed around him in a way that she hadn't been in Sunnydale. They were both starting over with their lives, able to acknowledge a friendship without being judged. Well, that is, if he wanted to be friends. She knew him well enough to know that he wasn't just using her for a place to stay. Oh, he might say he was, but most of that was just part of his act. The big bad who didn't need anyone and all that stuff.
"So, Red," Spike sat up, kicking off his boots and moving the two pillows behind his back until he was in a position that was comfortable. His blue eyes caught hers as he said, "I think I'm ready for that story now."
"Actually, before I tell my story, why don't you tell me why you're here," she suggested, curious as to what had brought him all the way to New Orleans.
"Well, luv, me mum and me dad had sex once about a hundred and fifty years ago. Nine months later, I was born," he smiled slightly, finding his usual enjoyment at teasing her.
"Very funny," she said with a snort. "Since it appears that the bleach has rotted your brain, I'll speak slowly and use small words. I mean, what brings you to New Orleans."
"Not using the bleach anymore, pet," he mentioned, his hand moving up to ruffle his lighter blond hair, "didn't you notice?"
"I noticed," Willow said, "it looks different but good. And you're not going to get out of answering my question."
"I don't know why I'm here," he admitted, wondering if he should start bleaching his hair again before deciding to worry about that later, "just started driving and ended up here. It seemed like the right place to go, you know?"
"I understand," Willow said, knowing exactly what he was talking about. She'd felt the same way when she'd decided to leave Sunnydale and had looked at the map, nothing seeming right until her eyes had seen the name of this particular city. That had been her moment of clarity, her realization that this is where she would move.
Spike looked into her eyes, knowing that she probably did understand. He nodded once before moving his hands behind his head, a smile crossing his handsome face as he said, "Now, where's my story?"
~Part: 6~
"So, what's this Spike guy's deal?"
Faith looked at Gunn and shrugged, "I dunno. I never really spent that much time getting to know Blondie. I know he has bad taste cause he fell for Bitchy, but that's about it."
"Man, that's kind of sad," Gunn said, having not been overly impressed with the blonde slayer. "I mean, at least Angel had the soul excuse for banging the bitch."
"Yeah, well, Red said she didn't quite understand why Spike wanted Buffy, and that it was just sex between them, so I'll allow him to plead a case of temporary insanity," Faith decided.
"He didn't seem too bad in Sunnydale, not too friendly but decent," Gunn remarked, "and he did seem to be friendly with Will so that's good enough for me. I trust her judgment."
"He's not a threat or I wouldn't let him near Red," Faith said, knowing the blond vampire was dangerous and powerful but also knowing that he considered Willow a friend and wouldn't do anything that would piss her off.
"Do you have any idea how fucked up my life has become?" he said with a laugh. "I mean, five years ago I was hunting vampires and demons. Now, I'm living with them! Hell, I call some of them friend. Most people don't even believe they exist and here I am sharing a house with two."
"You're lucky, Chuck," Faith said with a smile, realizing this was probably the most Gunn had said at one time since they'd met. He tended to be a watcher type, not a talker type.
"Yeah, I guess I am," he nodded, returning her smile. "So, how long do we think Blondie is going to be hanging around?"
"Who knows?" Faith shrugged, "Probably as long as Willow lets him."
"Then he'll be around for awhile," Gunn smiled as he thought of the kind redhead, "she's not about to turn her back on a friend."
"You're right about that," Faith agreed, not mentioning that Willow had once had a crush on the handsome vampire and might very well still have some feelings for the vampire which should make things even more interesting. Personally, she was interested to see how he'd adapt to their little family. If he made waves, she'd kick his ass. She had a feeling that he'd fit in, though, as hard as that was to believe. They were all misfits in their own way, so he'd belong. Maybe he'd be happy to have somewhere to fit in like she was. If not, he could keep his mouth shut and just deal. She suddenly smiled as she said, "I just realized, I'll finally have a sparring partner!"
"Slayer, only you would be happy at the idea of having a vampire around to kick your ass," Gunn shook his head.
"Hey, now, I might be the one kicking his ass!" she defended with a scowl. "I'm pretty good at this slayer thing, you know? I mean, I did take down Angelus."
"Yeah, you did," Gunn shared a smile with her, "and I'm sure you can kick Blondie's ass, if he agrees to train with you."
"I'll have Willow ask him," Faith decided, "he'll say yes because he owes her for letting him stay with us. Besides, what vampire wouldn't like the opportunity to spar with a slayer?"
"Speaking of vampires, I don't think Spike was too impressed with Lio," Gunn said with a snicker.
"I noticed that, too," Faith laughed, "all those threatening glares and shit. It's some master thing, I guess. Sort of like a slayer thing, in a way. I mean, I can't stand being around Buffy at all."
"But that's because she's a selfish stupid bitch and you're not," Gunn said.
"Why, Chuck, was that a compliment?" Faith smirked at him.
"Not planning on repeating it, so take it the way you want," Gunn said with a smile. She reminded him of his sister in so many ways, making him feel like the older brother again. It was nice, sharing a life with her and Willow. teasing and tormenting his younger siblings while protecting them at the same time. He chuckled as he said, "Did you see the way Spike got all pissed when Lio called him a kid?"
"Very funny," Faith laughed, "and did you notice the way he kept tensing up when Lio was calling Willow Bella? Me thinks someone was jealous!"
"Yeah, well, you know how Angel gets all protective of his friends and hates to share us with others," Gunn spoke from years of experience, "Guess that must run in the family."
"Well, if it does, it should make for some interesting drama to watch unfold," Faith said with a wicked smile, "considering that Willow is Basilio's personal assistant and he's dating Lorne. Blondie is going to have to learn how to share because I am so not dealing with temper tantrums and glaring vampires. I don't care if he is a hottie, I'll kick his ass if doesn't grow up and deal."
"What is it with you girls and vampires?" Gunn shook his head, "I just don't get it. He's skinny and pale and undead. How can that be hot?"
"He's got great eyes, a fine ass, large hands that make a girl wonder what they'd feel like on their skin, cheekbones that are killer, faded jeans that give you no doubt that what they say about large hands is proven true in his case, and a voice that would make you wet even if he was reading a phone book," Faith said sweetly, enjoying watching Gunn squirm. "Add to that package the knowledge that he's dangerous, rough and can be tender when he wants and, well, what girl could resist?"
"That was way more information than I wanted to know," Gunn grimaced, "Remind me next time that I don't want to understand how you girls think!"
"You did ask," Faith teased with a laugh before saying seriously, "He's not my type, though. I prefer my men bigger, something to hold on to while I'm riding them into exhaustion. I can appreciate Spike's beauty but I wouldn't do him."
"That's a first, a guy you wouldn't do," Gunn said with a snicker.
"Hey, there are plenty of guys I wouldn't do, Chuck," Faith defended. "Haven't done a guy since before prison, thank you very much. I'm getting picky in my old age."
"Glad to hear that," he said, "though I am working on the big brother intimidation routine just in case you or Willow start dating. I've nearly perfected the scowl and threatening don't lay a hand on my sister glare."
"Yeah, well, Will and I are working on our sisterly inquisition for when you decide to start dating, Bro," Faith said with a smug smile. She was glad that Gunn had decided to stay with them, liked the idea that he had sort of adopted her and Willow as sisters, liked having a brother type to tease. She'd been an only child, no father around at all, no men in her life until she'd arrived in Sunnydale and met Giles and Wesley. They'd never really been part of her life, though. Angel was the first man she'd considered a friend, the first one she'd let in. Now, she'd lowered the wall enough to let Gunn and Lorne and, most recently, Lio begin to take part in her life. Sometimes taking a risk and caring was worth it.
"I'll be sure to never let you girls know," he said before seeing the waiter wave him over. "Looks like the food is ready."
"I've got Blondie's blood, so you get to carry dinner," she said as she followed him to pay. She slung the bag that the week's supply of blood over her shoulder, ready to get their food and go home. Eat some dinner, watch some television, wait for Willow to finish getting Spike settled in, and then maybe do some people watching from the balcony like they'd done for the last few days.
~Part: 7~
"It's really not a long story," Willow said as she made herself comfortable. "I just said that because I didn't want to start talking about it until I could sit down and give you my full attention. So, what do you want to know?"
"How'd you end up leaving Sunnyhell with the three morons?" Spike asked, deciding to just start at the first and go from there.
"That one is easy," Willow smiled, "I wanted to leave, decided to come here. Gunn offered to drive me because he wasn't in a hurry to get back to LA. Faith asked if she could move with me, having no reason to stay in Sunnydale. Then, Lorne asked if he could come. They're great. We all have a lot of fun together. It's like a family."
"That's just so sweet that I think I might get sick," he said with a shudder.
"Don't knock it until you've tried it, Spike," she warned with a slight smile. "Who knows, if you allowed yourself, you might like hanging out with us and having, dare I say it, fun?"
"Very funny, pet," he rolled his eyes at her gasp, deciding not to get defensive for fear she wouldn't answer his other questions. Instead, he asked, "How did you find this place? Last time I checked, it took a lot of money to have a place like this."
"Lorne had insurance money plus some savings," Willow explained, "I used some of my savings for the extras but he insisted on paying for the house and club himself. Once we all get settled in, we're going to use the rent money to buy food and anything else we might need. He won't accept the money from us but did agree we could pay the weekly expenses and bills when we could afford it. A friend of his introduced us to the real estate guy and he showed us the house. It's perfect, isn't it? I knew as soon as I walked in that it was home."
"Okay, so you're in town less than a week and you've snagged a great house and already moved in. That's too easy," he shook his head, his eyes narrowing as he asked his next question, "Where does the vampire fit in?"
"Basilio?" Willow looked at him in surprise when he hissed the word vampire. "He's the master of New Orleans. We met him for dinner when he found out we wanted to move here. He has final approval on things like that. Anyway, he's great. He and Lorne are dating."
"Knew he was a poofster," Spike said smugly, frowning as he asked, "then what's with the Bella business and flirting he was doing with ya?"
"He has a nickname for me and Faith," Willow rolled her eyes, "as for the other, he's just a harmless flirt. He's really nice, Spike. I mean, the things he's done with this town are amazing. You'd never know he was a master vampire by how he acts, but you can sense his strength. He's like over five hundred years old and he doesn't kill humans anymore. He doesn't have a soul but he won't allow humans to be killed. He's great."
"Sounds like a bleeding saint," Spike said crossly, not liking his witch talking about the other vampire as if she were the head of his fan club.
"You'll like him once you get to know him," she said, amused at his attitude. She knew that Spike hadn't liked Lio when they'd met, but she figured with time he'd grow to enjoy the elder vampire's company just like she and the others did. Or, remembering Spike's tendency to not be friendly to other vampires, maybe it would take a bit longer. Either way, he could learn to deal with Lio if he planned on staying around.
"Doubt it, pet," Spike said with a roll of his eyes. "When did you become president of his fan club, Red? Doesn't that go against all your training as a slayerette? Becoming friends with a master vampire and all that rot."
"I'm friends with you, Spike," she reminded sweetly watching as he scowled at her.
"That's different," he remarked. "I'm special."
"Yes, you are," she almost laughed at the flash of arrogance that entered his eyes at her words, "I like him and it doesn't really matter that he's a master vampire. He's become a good friend to me, so be nice to him!"
"Don't know if I can be nice to him, luv, even for you," he said with a frown, wishing he could smoke.
"Just try," Willow asked.
"Whatever," Spike said, looking at the redhead and asking, "so, what's this job you've got?"
"Oh, that," Willow drew her bottom lip into her mouth as she figured out the best way to tell him. He didn't seem to like Lio and here she was about to tell him that not only was Lio a friend of hers, but that he was also her boss. Somehow, she didn't think Spike was going to like that idea. She'd never understand him and how his mind worked. "I'm Basilio's personal assistant. I run the town for him."
"What?" Spike's eyes narrowed at her innocent expression, reeling from hearing that his witch was the assistant to the master of New Orleans. Not only was she the president of the fucking fan club, she worked for the bastard too!
"It's a lot fun," she said, "I just started Monday, but everyone is real nice. Plus, the pay is fantastic and he's a great boss. Gives me complete control and doesn't constantly stand over my shoulder."
"You work for him?" Spike repeated, again wishing he could smoke. That was even worse than having the guy dating the green demon. That meant he'd be around constantly, flirting with his Red, taking up all her time. He didn't like to share, damn it, especially not with pretty boy masters that called him kid like he was some newbie. He was William the Bloody, Spike, half the Scourge of Europe. He was not a kid, no matter how old the wanker might be. He was going to have to tolerate the poof if he planned on staying here, which he did. He rather liked the idea of being friends with Red, always enjoying teasing her and talking to her in the past. He hated having to put up with the others to be around her, but he knew it was something he'd better get used to. He could just figure out a way to get her to himself most the time and then he'd only have to tolerate them in small doses. Yeah, that could be his plan. He smiled, glad he had a plan.
Willow watched his face, wishing she could read minds. He'd scowled then grimaced then seemed to relax and finally smiled. If you looked up the word enigma in the dictionary, she figured you'd find a picture of Spike there. She was about to answer his question when Faith appeared in the doorway. She smiled at her best friend, knowing that if Faith was back it meant it was time to eat dinner. "Hey, you."
"Hey, Red, Blondie. So, you chose the blue room, huh?" Faith said, her dark eyes moving from the redhead to the vampire laying sprawled across the bed. She caught his eyes and said, "Figured you'd like this one. It's got the smallest window and most simple decorations. Anyway, here's some dinner, Blondie."
Spike caught the bag of blood she tossed him, feeling that she'd already warmed it. Okay, he had to admit that this was a bit weird. A slayer heating blood for him? Not even Buffy had ever done that, it always falling to Giles or Willow to heat his blood when he'd been unable to do it himself. And she was being friendly to him, which was strange. She didn't need anything from him, had no ulterior motive. She was being nice just because he was Willow's friend. Reluctantly, he said, "Thanks, slayer."
"Bet that hurt! Anyway, it's no prob," Faith said as she looked at Willow, "we've got food downstairs, Red. You want me to bring it up here for you or are you finished with your talk?"
"I think we're finished," Willow said, looking at Spike, "we can talk more later, right?"
"Wait a minute, I'm not finished with you yet," Spike said with a frown, glaring at Faith for trying to take Willow away before they were finished talking. She'd go downstairs and he'd be stuck here alone, like he'd been for weeks. He'd enjoyed talking to someone, liked hearing her stories. Didn't want to be alone again.
"We can talk while I'm eating, then," Willow said as she got to her feet. She saw the surprise in his eyes and smiled, "You were planning on coming downstairs to eat with us, weren't you?"
"Course, luv," he lied smoothly, having had no idea they'd include him in their dinner plans. He gave her an arrogant smile as he added, "I mean, I can't deprive you of the pleasure of my company. After all, how much fun would it be if I weren't there, Red?"
~Part: 8~
"Can I answer that?" Faith asked with a slight smile as she grabbed Willow's hand and pulled the redhead from the room.
"Faith, be nice," Willow said with a laugh as she followed her best friend down the hallway.
"Yeah, slayer, be nice," Spike said with a snicker as the slayer flipped him off.
"Spike, you be nice too," Willow gave him a warning look.
"You always ruin my fun, Red," Spike muttered as he followed them into the kitchen where the black kid had plates out that he was putting food on.
"Thank God, FOOD," Faith grabbed her plate and inhaled the scent of her food. "I'm starving."
"That's because you only ate three meals today," Gunn said with a laugh, ducking out of the way as she swung at him. "Careful, slayer or you might spill your food."
"What do we want to watch tonight?" Faith said, deciding that Gunn was right and not wanting to risk losing her food to the floor.
"What's on?" Willow asked as she grabbed a soda from the fridge before checking to see if she needed anything else before she could sit down and eat. She brushed past Spike as she reached up into a cabinet and found a mug for him. She handed it to him with a smile before turning back to her food.
Spike took the mug, watching as the three went about getting their dinner ready, avoiding bumping into each other, teasing and laughing the entire time. He couldn't remember seeing Red this relaxed in years, her eyes bright with humor and affection for her friends. He leaned against the counter, his blue eyes watching her as she finished getting her stuff together.
"It's after midnight on a weekday," Faith reminded, "that means, nothing is on!"
"Let me see the remote," Gunn said, catching it when she tossed it to him. He sat on the sofa and began flipping channels, "no, no, no, no, no, how about this?"
Willow took her plate and was about to grab her soda when Spike took the plate from her. She looked at him in surprise then smiled as he ignored her and headed to the living room. She followed him with her soda and watched as he put her plate on the table by the sofa opposite Gunn. She sat down, her eyes moving over the television to see what Gunn had selected, "Gunn, its Friday the 13th!"
"Yeah?" he said, giving her a look that indicated she was stupid for stating the obvious.
"We're eating dinner! We can't eat dinner when Jason is chasing after barely dressed teenagers," Willow said with a laugh, "and slaughtering them into little bitty pieces!"
"Oh no, there's a killer after me…why don't I stop and take a shower!" Faith said in a perky voice.
"There's someone chasing me though the woods! Oops, I didn't notice that huge branch right in front of me!" Willow answered back in an equally perky voice before laughing.
"There's a maniac on the loose! Perfect time for a camping trip," Gunn said with amusement.
"Your turn, Blondie," Faith said, including the vampire in their newest ritual of making fun of the genre of movie they were watching.
"My turn?" Spike looked at them as if they were crazy. He couldn't figure them out. He knew that none of them had ever been friends really, knew they'd only been together for a couple of weeks at most, yet they were acting as if they were a family. They had routines and rituals and seemed like they were part of something. And now the slayer seemed to be giving him a chance to be part of their group, to take part in their stupid game. He found himself wanting to, especially when Willow looked at him and smiled. Deciding what the fuck, he shrugged, saying in a voice he usually reserved for imitating Angel, "We just found our friend with his head in one room and his body in the other….let's go have sex!"
The others looked at him a second before cracking up, Gunn shook his head as he smiled, "Dude, that was classic. You can stay."
"Good one, Blondie," Faith agreed before focusing on her dinner, deciding that maybe Spike wouldn't be so bad to have around after all.
"It was, wasn't it?" Spike said, giving Willow a smug smile, "they like me."
"You're a very likable guy," she said seriously though a smile was threatening to cross her face. She watched him smile slightly before turning to watch the movie, his body moving against the sofa as he got comfortable, his knee brushing against her leg as he chuckled at a particularly gruesome death scene. She got her plate and settled back against the couch, starting a humorous commentary about the cheesy horror movie with Faith in between bites of food, laughing when Gunn and finally Spike joined them with their own comments.
~Part: 9~
"Well, gang, I think it's time for me to get some sleep," Gunn said as the final credits began to roll. He stood up and stretched, covering a yawn before he continued, "I've got to be at work early tomorrow to help Mae do inventory. It's been real, guys. See ya in the morning."
"Night, Chuck," Faith said as she turned off the television. She glanced at the clock, surprised to see that it was nearly four. They'd watched two movies, spending the hours making fun of the poor acting, bad plot, cheesy music, and fake death scenes. Spike had been hilarious, giving them detailed descriptions of what the death scenes should have looked like until Willow would hit him with the pillow as she was laughing and cringing at the same time.
Faith had to admit that she was a bit surprised at how relaxed those two were around each other. She knew they'd been friends, but she'd never thought they'd actually spent time hanging out. Yet, they were comfortable together in a way that either proved her wrong or gave her even more to think about. At the moment, in fact, Willow was laying across the couch with a pillow behind her back and Spike was laying between her legs with his head on her stomach, swatting her hand away from his no longer quite as bleached, longer and slightly curly hair. They gave every impression of having been best friends forever. She and a certain redhead were going to have a chat soon, she decided, put some of her new detective skills to work. She wanted to know what was happening between Willow and Spike, because there was no way that she was going to believe after watching them together the last few hours that there wasn't anything happening. She would have to be sneaky in her questioning, figured that Willow was oblivious to the fact that there was something happening at all between her and the vampire she called friend. That made it all the more fun, in Faith's opinion. She smiled as she stood, her mind running through various questions she could ask without raising Willow's suspicions. Faith picked up the discarded soda cans and went to put them in the kitchen, cleaning things up before they headed upstairs, her mind continuing to think of ways to find out what she wanted to know.
"Good night, Gunn," Willow called out as she gave him a smile before turning her attention back to Spike's hair. She didn't really know what had happened between them from the time she had seen him at the office until now, and she didn't really care to try to figure it out. All she knew was that he had let his guard down, that he was more relaxed and happy than she could remember ever seeing him. He seemed to be enjoying himself, making himself right at home. He'd even been relatively nice to Faith and Gunn, seemingly to hit it off well with the other guy, making plans to go play pool that night in fact. It was nice seeing him letting people get closer than normal. Speaking of closer, somehow they'd ended up moving their positions during the last movie, his head resting on her stomach. It had given her a chance to play with his hair, something she'd always wanted to do, but never dared try. It was different than it had been at that time. He'd not bleached it in awhile, the blond streaks fading and leaving a dirty blondish brown color that was rather nice but she honestly missed the shocking white of the bleach. Spike could look attractive even with purple hair, but the bleach brought out the color in his eyes, the contours of his face, and gave him a bit of a dangerous edge that was just yummy, in a merely friendly observing kind of way. He'd let it grown out some, too, the length soft and slightly curly. She moved her fingers through the curls, laughing as he again tried to slap her hand away. She figured if he was too annoyed with her messing with his hair, he'd get up and move. So far, he hadn't. He'd just grumbled and given her a glare or two and muttered something about finding some bleach.
"Are my roots showing, luv?" he asked, giving her a pointed look as she continued to play with his hair. She'd been driving him crazy for the past half hour, her fingers brushing against his scalp, twisting his hair this way and that. He hadn't minded, rather enjoying the feeling of being touched in such an innocent way. It would have been very easy to close his eyes and just concentrate on the warmth that surrounded him, to turn quickly and sink deep inside her, to feel her touching him everywhere. But, he couldn't do that. Even if it would only take him five seconds. He'd figured it out in detail during the last movie, being bored with the film after twenty minutes. He'd worked thought the entire idea, allowing a second to turn, a second to unzip his pants, two seconds to pull hers down and move her legs around his waist, and a second before he'd be sinking into her tight warmth. Five seconds. That's all it would take. Maybe less if he really concentrated. That's all he'd been thinking about for nearly an hour. His mind had moved to the redhead behind him who had been squirming and laughing and groaning and then playing with his hair. A green eyed temptress that had no idea where his thoughts were. What the hell was he thinking? This was Red. His friend. His only friend. That was what he kept reminding himself as he had grown hard, as the images of her writhing beneath him with her beautiful face twisted in pleasure filled his mind, as he could almost hear her voice screaming out his name…..just his friend. Even now, as her scent filled his senses, he kept repeating those three words to himself, just a friend.
"Yeah, they are," Willow said, "you need to get up, Spike. We can't lay here forever."
"Don't wanna move," he muttered, making a mental note to get his hair done soon. He'd considered letting it go normal, back to the color he could only vaguely remember. Now, though, he had decided to keep it bleached. He liked the look, had been told that he wore the color well, felt a bit lost without it. He felt Willow's fingers twist his hair again and realized that he'd get it bleached but he wouldn't get it cut. He rather liked the sensation of her playing with his longer hair. Maybe a trim since he had no intention of looking like the poofster he'd met earlier, but leave it a little long on top so that Willow's fingers could tangle it in whenever she wanted to play. He groaned as visions of playing with the redhead filled his mind causing him to sit up quickly before she noticed the hardening arousal that was pressing against his jeans. He gasped when he felt his hair being pulled, glaring at her as he said, "Bloody hell, luv, that's my hair you're pulling out!"
"Sorry, Spike. You sat up before my hand was moved," Willow replied with her own glare.
"Will, you want to sit outside before bed?" Faith asked as she entered the room, immediately noticing the tension that hadn't been there five minutes before. What did she miss?
"Sure, Faith," Willow said, her eyes moving to look at her friend as she gave her a smile, "I think I could use some fresh air."
"Slayer, could you go on up?" Spike asked, his eyes on Willow's profile, "I've got to talk to Red for a minute."
"Sure, I'll change into my pajamas and meet you on the balcony, Willow," Faith said, her eyes curious as she moved to the stairs.
"What? Are you going to snap at me again for something you caused?" Willow asked, turning to look at him.
"I'm sorry for yelling, pet," he mumbled, hating to apologize, but also realizing that he'd taken out his frustration at being aroused on her. The pain from his hair had been nothing, if anything adding to his arousal, so he'd snapped at her. He didn't want to piss her off, though, having enjoyed his night with her more than he cared to admit. He didn't want to lose her when he'd only just found her again. It might be pathetic as hell, but he really did want to be her friend. He wasn't ready for anything more than that right now, not that she'd ever be interested in him that way even if he did want a relationship, which he didn't.
"Yeah, well, I'm sorry for pulling your hair," Willow admitted with a sheepish smile.
"Thanks," he said softly, giving her a slight smile.
"For what?" she asked, looking at him with curious green eyes.
"For letting me stay here, for including me with your little group of friends, for everything you've done for me, for just being you," he leaned over and brushed his lips against her forehead, his hand moving across her cheek as he pushed the hair away from her face before he pulled back and smiled, "you'd better run along upstairs before the slayer comes looking for you. I think I'm going to get some rest, myself. It's been a long couple of weeks. Sweet dreams, Red."
"Sleep well, Spike," she whispered with a smile as he moved past her to the stairs, going up to his room. She sighed softly as she watched him until he disappeared, not realizing that her hand had moved to touch her cheek. Shaking her head, she came out of her daze and turned off the lights downstairs, leaving one on for Lorne, before she went upstairs to change into her pajamas before joining Faith on the balcony. She passed by the upstairs bathroom, hearing the water running in the shower, a vision of Spike standing naked with drops of water cascading down his pale flesh flashed into her mind, causing her face to flush as she hurried into her room. She fell on the bed, her arm going over her face as she groaned at the familiar arousal that was teasing her. She could do this. She was strong. She could ignore the crush that had never really faded, she could ignore the desire she felt just from watching him smile or hearing him laugh. Yes, she could do it. She'd done it for years, after all, so she had practice. She would be friends with Spike, just friends.
~Part: 10~
Faith looked up with a smile when she heard Willow's door open. The redhead walked onto the balcony, her eyes closing as she took a deep breath and slowly let it out. Faith asked, "Did you get Blondie tucked in?"
"He's in the shower," Willow replied as she walked to the middle of the balcony where they had put the chairs. She sat down, tucking her right leg underneath her as she made herself comfortable. "I heard it running when I came up."
"That's a nice image," Faith laughed softly, knowing that, while Spike might not be her type, he was one fine man.
"Faith!" Willow exclaimed as she looked at her friend, having finally managed to get said image out of her mind only to have her friend bring it back. "Can we discuss something other than Spike naked in the shower?"
"I never mentioned the naked part," Faith said with a slight leer, "guess we know where you're mind is, young lady."
"Of course he'd be naked if he was in the shower," Willow said, finally groaning and saying, "That's enough teasing, Faith. I was not thinking about Spike naked in the shower. Nope, not at all. Not this girl, cause it would be wrong to think about your friend like that. So, no naked Spike thoughts for me. Got it?"
"You're no fun, Red," Faith said with a slight smirk. Oh yeah, this was fun. Willow was always in control of everything usually, with her lists and her plans and her goals. It was great seeing her so off balance, so alive! And Faith had Spike to thank for it. Would wonders never cease?
"Sorry, it's been a long night," Willow muttered, running a hand over her face and through her hair as she whispered almost to herself, "He just drives me crazy, you know? I can't ever figure out what he's thinking. He's unpredictable and infuriating and funny and sweet and smart and arrogant and he makes me feel…I don't know."
"You're forgiven," Faith said, deciding to ignore what she had clearly heard Willow saying. He makes her feel. That was all she needed to know. She'd heard enough to know that Willow's crush on the vampire was still alive and well. She saw confused but relieved green eyes look at her and sighed, knowing that Willow probably had no idea that she had feelings for the blond, knew that it was way too soon to confront the redhead. Spike had only been there a few hours, seemed to be interested in being Willow's friend, gave her the impression of someone looking for a new start like the rest of them, and Faith didn't know him well enough yet to know if he deserved Willow or not. There was plenty of time for serious conversations later, once she was certain that Willow wouldn't end up hurt and that Willow did indeed care for the blond vampire as something other than a friend and vice versa. Maybe she was jumping to conclusions and there wasn't anything but friendship? Maybe it would be better to wait and observe and see what happened.
"Thanks, Faith," Willow gave Faith a sheepish smile, knowing that her friend had to have heard her rambling, grateful that the slayer had decided to let it drop. She added, "I'm really glad that you and Gunn gave Spike a chance tonight."
"Who are we to judge anyone, Red?" Faith asked, "Besides, he's not that bad when he drops the big bad evil vampire act. He's got a wicked sense of humor and is pretty damn smart."
"He's one of the smartest people I've ever met," Willow agreed truthfully. She could spend hours talking to Spike and never get bored.
"He makes a good addition to the family," Faith decided, "but we really need to discuss your habit of picking up strays."
"Strays?" Willow looked at Faith and laughed. "What are you talking about?"
"First me, then Lorne, then Gunn, now Spike," Faith ticked off the names on her fingers. She smiled fondly at the redhead, "We were all strays before you, Willow. Now, we're family."
"That's so sweet, Faith," Willow said with a smile, before adding, "but don't let Spike hear you referring to him as family. He might have been relaxed enough tonight for whatever reason to let you guys in a bit, but I don't think he's quite ready to want to be called family by a slayer."
"That will be our secret, then, Red," Faith decided with a smile. She had a feeling that Willow was right about Spike. He'd seemed to have fun hanging out with them but there was still a slight edge to him. He didn't trust them yet, didn't really like any of them except Willow yet, and she figured it would be some time before he called them friends. No, thinking he might be considered part of their family would probably scare him away, and that would make Willow sad which wasn't a good thing.
"That's probably for the best for now," Willow said, suddenly frowning as she realized that he could leave at any time. He hadn't said a word about how long he was planning on staying in New Orleans. He might not want to move here. She didn't like that idea at all. It was nice having him around. It had only been a few hours, but it had been great. She enjoyed talking to him, teasing him, just being with him. Always had, but it was different now. She couldn't explain how or why, but it felt different. She figured it was because they were in a new town, different surroundings and different people around them. Either way, it was nice and she didn't want him to leave any time soon. She'd just have to do her best to include him in their lives, make him feel needed, give him reasons to stay. She'd become his best friend and then he'd never want to leave. Yeah, that's what she'd do. She'd forget her crush and attraction and focus on the friendship and affection.
"My lips are sealed, then," Faith said, watching as Willow got lost in thought. She knew it had to be about Spike, but what? Whatever it was had caused Willow to get a determined gleam in her eyes and flashes of her resolve face could be seen. Okay, there was definitely something happening between Willow and Spike. She didn't know what, exactly, but it should definitely make for an interesting show. It was going to be a lot of fun to sit back and watch and wait for the fireworks. Because, Faith was confident that once Willow and Spike moved past the friendship to the 'and more' parts, which would eventually happen if her observations were accurate, that there would be tons of fireworks. She couldn't wait! Willow deserved passion, love, fireworks, bells ringing, and a happily ever after. And maybe, just maybe, Spike was the man to give it to her. Faith was a firm believer in fate and destiny, even though she'd probably deny having such romantic notions if confronted, and she thought it was too coincidental that Spike just happened to end up in New Orleans and just happened to run into Willow. Some things were just meant to be.
"What are you thinking about?" Willow asked as she came out of her thoughts and looked at her silent friend.
"Nothing," Faith said with a slight smile, knowing that Willow didn't need to hear that her best friend had decided that she and Spike were destined to be together. The redhead would probably laugh and then tell the slayer to get some sleep. Of course, maybe she'd be right. Maybe Faith was over thinking everything. She had a tendency to do that at times. She'd let it drop for now, sit back and watch, then think about it all some more. Changing the subject, she asked, "So, are we gonna meet Gunn for lunch tomorrow afternoon again?"
"Yeah, we can," Willow said, deciding not to push Faith since the slayer had ignored her earlier comments about Spike without teasing or questioning and had simply let the matter drop. She'd repay the favor now, adding, "I'm not going into work until dusk, so I've got all day open."
"Coolness," Faith declared as she stood up, covering a yawn, "On that note, I'm going to get some sleep. Wow, in bed before dawn. I'm proud."
"You should be," Willow laughed as she watched Faith enter her room and close the door. She would probably see the sunrise, herself. She rarely slept for more than a couple of hours a night, had picked up that habit over the last few years and never felt a need to break it. She was okay with only a few hours and it gave her more hours in her day, so it was all good. She settled back in her chair, her mind thinking about her new job, the new house, her family, and finally Spike. A small smile crossed her face as her green eyes looked at the sky as she continued thinking, waiting for the approaching dawn of a brand new day.