OUT OF THE SHADOWS (1/?)
 

Buffy glared across the table at the dark haired youth. She couldn't
deny the truth in his words, but it irritated her how he was always
right. She sat back, frowning. Sometimes she wondered why they had let
him join their gang. She knew of course that Willow had insisted. Since
she couldn't tell her friend no, Bill, college sophomore, had joined
their gang.
 

She watched Willow smile shyly at the boy...man, she corrected herself.
She couldn't call him a boy. He was over the age of eighteen. Studying
history at the university of Sunnydale, a freshman when that had met.
They had run into him shortly after her arrival in Sunnydale. He had
actually saved her and Willow from a few vampires in the cemetery one
night. After their initial shock that he had knowledge of the evil
nasties that took over Sunnydale at night, they had adopted him.
 

She thought he was cute, in a boyish way. In the beginning, she had done
everything she could think of to get him to ask her out. But, he'd been
blind to everyone except Willow. It was strange to see an attractive guy
choose shy little Willow over her. Hell, even Cordelia had attempted to
seduce him. He had ignored the May queen. Instead, he and Willow spent
hours discussing research and history. Both complete bores, if you asked
her. An attractive college nerd. Just her luck.
 

Of course, she couldn't complain. She had found herself someone much
better. Tall, dark, handsome, older. He was her soul mate. Bill was a
child compared to her love. She watched him and Willow talk and shook
her head. She wondered what it would take for those two to admit their
feelings. The entire gang had watched them fall in love the last eight
months. It had started gradually and was just moving steadily.
 

"So, this demon thing won't be hanging out with a sign that says, Feed
me, I'm evil?" Xander said sarcastically.
 

Bill gave Willow a look that she understood well. It meant, Where did
you dig this moron up? For some reason, Xander couldn't get along with
Bill. In the beginning, Buffy had suggested that it was because Xander
saw the brunette as a threat to his position in their lives. But now
Xander had Cordelia. She didn't know why he still constantly pestered
Bill.
 

"No signs." Bill said shortly. "We should check rivers, lakes, things
like that. This guy likes water. Most likely, that's where he will be."
 

"Where do you see that water liking part?" Buffy demanded.
 

Bill rolled his eyes, "Right there."
 

She following his finger and shrugged, "Sorry. I didn't see that
before."
 

"Why don't we split up? We can search faster that way." Willow said
softly.
 

She was being selfish. She just wanted to spend time with Will, away
from the others. She had fallen in love with him. She wondered if he
felt anything for her. His eyes would show such emotion but he always
kept things friendly. Never allowing it to go farther. She knew it was
because she was so young. She had just turned sixteen. He was at least
nineteen. He could get arrested if he slept with her. Thinking about
sleeping with him sent the familiar tingling through her body. She
wondered what he would be like as a lover. She shook her head, knowing
that now was not the time or place to indulge in stupid fantasies.
 

Bill stood quickly, "That's a good idea. Split up. We can check the area
and I'm sure someone will see the demon."
 

"Xander and I can check the lake. Daddy has a house out there." Cordelia
said smiling at Xander.
 

"Buffy can go pick up the creature of the night and check the east side
of town." Xander said, thankful that he didn't have to see the prick
that Buffy was in love with.
 

"Jenny and I will go search around the park. There are several steams
running through the area." Giles said.
 

"Guess that leaves me and you" Bill said softly, looking at Willow. "We
can go check the river."
 

"Ok." Willow said, standing.
 

The others watched them leave before glancing at each other.
 

"If that fool doesn't make a move soon, he may lose her." Xander said.
 

"I still can't believe he'd choose her over me. I am so much more
attractive." Cordelia said.
 

"And so modest." Buffy put in.
 

"Enough. Willow and Bill are not a concern right now. The demon is. Now,
off with you all."
 

<<<<<<<<<<<>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
 

"So this is Sunnydale?" A masculine voice said.
 

"I feel the slayer." a wispy feminine voice rang out.
 

"Aye, she's here, love. I feel him too."
 

"I don't" she said frowning. "Must be that pesky soul. Once it's gone,
we can be a family again."
 

"Right you are my princess. A family. Let's grab a bite to eat then find
somewhere to stay. You up for that, Drusilla?"
 

She giggled. "I'm hungry. Something young and sweet."
 

"Keep an eye open for the slayer. I heard she's involved with him. Daft
idiot. Just because he has a soul doesn't mean he has to go get messed
up with the slayer."
 

"Can I kill her?"
 

"Yes, baby. Anything you want."
 

"Goodie. Let's eat now."
 

He laughed as he escorted her through the shadows of Sunnydale.

*****
OUT OF THE SHADOWS (2/?)
 

Willow looked out at the water. It had been four days since she and Bill
had been at the river. Giles had found the demon, killing him easily.
They were patrolling. Word on the streets was that a duo of vampires had
arrived. Usually, this wouldn't have been that upsetting. In this case,
rumor was that they were very strong, very old and very powerful. True
opponents for the slayer to face.
 

As of yet, they had no names. Buffy had tried, but the local vampires
were frightened of the two, not a good sign. Willy had only said that
Buffy had better keep her eyes open. He refused to comment any further.
They did know that it was a man and a woman. They needed names though.
Giles believed that they would be listed in the diaries if they were
that much of a threat. So, the gang had been dispatched to find out
anything that they could.
 

"You ok?" She asked softly.
 

Bill glanced at her and smiled, "Yes. Just had a big test. You know how
it is."
 

"Sure do. Just took my American history test. If I had to read one more
question about the damn revolution, I thought I might be sick. Not my
favorite period of history, I can tell you."
 

Bill smiled as she continued babbling. He watched her eyes flash in the
moonlight. It was strange. For some reason, this young girl affected him
deeply. He couldn't explain it. He never thought he'd find someone that
he could honestly love. Yet, here she was. He often had to pinch himself
to make sure he wasn't dreaming. He didn't deserve her. In fact, he
should be sent to hell for even being friends with her. She was so
pure...so innocent...so good. He was the opposite.
 

He had tried. In the beginning, he had only come around when he felt
they needed the extra help. Buffy and Cordelia's attempted seductions
hadn't enticed him to want to be around. But, over time, he had been
drawn more and more into Willow's web. She had weaved a spell around
him. A spell that he couldn't, didn't want to, break.
 

He found himself moving closer to her as she continue to ramble on about
her history test. He had to taste her lips. The need was so strong. This
was a moment that had been eight months in the making. Only he would
spend that long courting a kiss. He reached his hand up to her face,
causing her to look at him startled. Her green eyes widened as he
lowered his face, his mouth barely touching hers.
 

Willow knew she was dreaming. She had had this dream often. Bill kissing
her. She moved up, brushing her lips against his. She heard a low groan
come from and found herself pushed against the tree. His tongue plunging
into her mouth as his hands pulled her against him. She gave him back
everything he gave her. Her tongue battling his, her hands roaming over
his back.
 

Distantly, Bill heard a chuckle. It finally penetrated the fog in his
mind. He pulled back, his eyes shocked. He didn't want to turn around.
Instead, he looked at Willow. Saw the love and desire and felt terrible.
He could never be what she needed. The sound of clapping echoed through
the night. He waited, gathering his wits about him. He saw the question
in Willow's eyes. He memorized that look of love, knowing that it would
never be there again. Not after what was about to happen. Turning, he
faced the applause.
 

Willow didn't know what was happening. She didn't like the look that had
flashed in Bill's eyes. She watched the wind ruffle his light brown hair
as he turned, keeping his body in front of her. What was he protecting
her from? She moved, staring at the sight in front of her.
 

A man and a woman were leaning against the tree. They were both
beautiful. It was odd to say that, but it was true. She had dark hair
that fell past her shoulders. A long dress made of lace and silk. The
man was breathtaking. Tight leather, a handsome face, chocolate colored
eyes. She watched his mouth as he spoke.
 

"Good show, old man. Took you long enough. We've been watching for at
least ten minutes. In the old days, you'd have been inside her and
finished in that time, her blood on your hands." He said fondly, staring
intensely at Bill. "Missed you, Spike. Don't worry. Daddy's come to make
it all better."

*****

OUT OF THE SHADOWS (3/?)
 

Spike? Who was Spike? Willow had a feeling of dread spread over her.
These were the two vampires they had been trying to find. She looked
them over and felt fear for her friend. Buffy was going to have her
hands full. The man radiated power and ruthlessness. His handsome face
only added to the entire package. The woman had a slight look in her
eyes that seemed off, but other than that, she too seemed very strong.
And they knew Bill. She waited.
 

"Angelus. Drusilla. Why are you here?"
 

"Told you, William my boy. We've come to save you, from yourself. What's
this I hear about you and the slayer?"
 

"Bill?" Willow said softly.
 

"Bill? Is that what you're going by now? That's a laugh." Angelus
chuckled, his eyes fixing on the red head behind his child. "Helloooo
Red. Must say, your taste has improved with age, Spike. I can smell her
innocence from here."
 

Spike's eyes flashed yellow. "Leave her out of this. She isn't in this."
 

Angelus smirked, "Uh oh. Touched a nerve. Did you hear that Dru,
sweetie? She isn't in this."
 

"He wants her. She's in this." Dru said softly, her eyes also on the
redhead.
 

Willow looked to Bill for reassurance. She saw his eyes and felt the
color drain from her face. "You're one of them."
 

At that, Angelus laughed outright, "You didn't know? That's just too
funny. The own slayer not realizing one of her own is a vampire. And
they say she's good."
 

"I'm not like them" he said softly, his eyes changing back to their
original blue. "Willow, I can explain."
 

She shook her head, backing away. "You could have told me. I wouldn't
have cared. You lied. I...." She took a deep breath, "I need to think."
 

Spike watched her run away from him. He had known that would happen.
Turning, he glared at Angelus. "What are you doing here?"
 

Angelus smiled, his eyes moving back from the running girl to his
childe. "I told you, I've come to make it all better. I miss my Spike,
as does Dru. We're going to be a family again."
 

"I'm not like you. You disgust me. Get out of Sunnydale. That will be my
only warning."
 

Angelus moved quickly, pinning Spike against the tree. "Do not threaten
me you whelp. I am still your sire, regardless of that pesky soul
inhabiting your body. Don't worry. I'll save the slayer for you. She can
be your third."
 

Spike stared at him coldly, "You'd have to kill me first."
 

"Ah, there's my boy. So stubborn, so cold. Hasn't been the same these
last sixty years. Now, go. I don't have all the answers yet. But rest
assured, I will be watching you. Once mine, always mine." He ran his
teeth over Spike's mouth, biting down and lapping the blood.
 

Spike pushed him away. He moved in the direction that Willow had gone.
He had to explain.
 

"Liked you better blond" Angelus called out after him. He turned to face
Dru, "That went rather well."
 

She smiled slightly, "His soul is weak. His feelings for the girl have
hurt it. To get him, you get her."
 

Angelus listened. Dru sometimes had her moments of insanity, but for the
most part, her feelings were dead on. "She weakens his soul?"
 

"Yes. He isn't as strong as he was the last time. His demon is straining
to bust free. I felt its presence earlier."
 

"When we first came upon them?"
 

Dru nodded, the smiling growing. "The demon wants her. Wants to claim
her. He has to fight it."
 

Angelus laughed softly, taking Dru's hand, "What happens if he gives in?
Doesn't fight it?"
 

"The demon wins."
 

"Oh, really? This could be fun."
 

Dru walked beside her Daddy, her thoughts going through her head. "I
like her. She has fire inside her heart. She'd make a good sister."
 

Angelus glanced at her, seeing her staring off into the shadows. He
thought over her words. Well, he could say this. Sunnydale was
definitely interesting. Soon it would be time to find the slayer. He
wanted to see what all the fuss was about.

*****

OUT OF THE SHADOWS (4/?)
 

Spike paced in front of Willow's house. He saw her light on and knew she
was awake. Every so often he would see her curtains move. He knew she
was peering out to see if he was still waiting. He'd really fucked up
this time. Trust Angelus to cause trouble for him.
 

He had been Bill for the last few months. He usually went by William,
but with hanging around the slayer, he thought that name too easy to
trace. He knew that he covered several pages in the journals. He hadn't
wanted them to know about him unless it was unpreventable. Now, he had
lost the one thing that he had cared about in over a hundred years.
 

Spike. The name brought him memories and guilt. He hated what he had
been. Of course, while he was human, he hadn't been an angel. Not by a
long shot. He hadn't earned the nickname William the Bloody for his
volunteer work. He had been sadistic..an evil bastard. He had thrived on
beating. Loved the power rush of having someone beg him for their lives.
He never killed them, but he did make sure that they never forgot his
face.
 

Then, when he was 24, he had met Angelus. His sire. His lover. His
friend...so much more. He had earned the nickname, Spike. He loved that
name. It had symbolized everything that people feared from him. He
hadn't used it in years. They had spent the next forty years terrorizing
Europe, adding Drusilla about half way through. She had been Angelus'
mate. An innocent that he had driven mad before turning. Had Angelus
ever left her, Spike was sure she would have gone insane. As it was, his
sire loved the girl. She had been what had driven him to hunt alone. He
had acted like a child, angry at the attention she received. Angry that
his sire would look upon another with the same love. He knew even then
that Angelus always put him first. He had just been too immature to
accept that he could share. So, he had stormed out one evening to hunt.
 

It had been sixty four years. Sixty four years since he had wandered the
countryside and chosen a victim. A small girl of twelve. He still
remembered her blood...her face. She haunted him, as did all of his
victims. She had been Roma, a gypsy. Her kin had cursed him, giving him
a soul. He had never felt such pain. Angelus had tried, doing everything
he could to rid his favorite childe of the curse. Nothing had helped. It
wasn't long after that that Spike had seen the disgust in his sire
eye's....the pity in Drusilla's.
 

He had left his family, coming to the states. Angelus hated America,
vowing never to step foot on its surface. It appeared that he had lied.
Now, when Spike had finally found something...someone to live for, his
sire was back. He didn't know what he was going to do. He
couldn't...wouldn't...fight Angelus. He loved his sire. Always had. He
had been jealous of the place that Drusilla had taken, but Angelus had
never pushed him away. He had left of his own choosing. In fact, he had
heard that his sire had searched Europe for him to no avail. He had also
heard rumors of the two searching around the world, but he hadn't
believed that Angelus would be that determined.
 

Spike didn't like the slayer. Sure, he tolerated her. He helped her. But
he didn't like her. It was for Willow. Always for Willow. From the
moment he had come to Sunnydale, he had been bewitched by the redhead.
She made him feel, something that he hadn't experienced in centuries. As
time had passed, he had fallen in love with her. He could imagine the
sneer on his sire's face at that news. Love was an emotion for the weak.
Always had been. Unless she was his mate, undead like him, she was a
risk. That would be how his sire saw it. He knew differently. She had
kept him alive, even before he had spoken to her. He had watched over
her for a year before the slayer ever arrived. He had killed for her. He
would die for her.
 

He had to talk to her...to explain. She would hate him, he was sure. She
had said that his being a vampire was not what hurt, that his lying had.
He knew she was lying to herself. The slayer would have killed him
immediately had she realized what he was. He still wondered why she had
never sensed it. He assumed it was his soul.
 

He saw the curtain move again. Saw her red hair lighted by the lamp. He
looked closely as she moved into view. He saw tears on her face and felt
something inside him snap. He had caused those. He had hurt her.
Something he had vowed never to do. He wanted to protect her, not hurt
her. He saw her turn away, moving the curtains back. He had to make her
listen. He had to talk to the others, warn them.
 

Angelus claimed that he was the reason they had come. Somehow he doubted
that. His sire was notorious for planning. He had to have another motive
to come here after him. Spike knew the slayer had to be involved. This
damn town. The hellmouth had lured him as it had lured others. Just his
luck to get involved with the slayer and her gang. He could no longer
kill without remorse. Helping them aided him with his guilt over past
deeds. Plus, it had allowed him to get to know Willow. Casting one last
look at the window, he began to walk away. The watcher would listen to
him. The man would probably be the only one that wouldn't react without
hearing what he had to say. With Angelus and Drusilla in town, the
slayer and the others were in danger. They had to be ready. With renewed
determination, he set off for the watcher's apartment.
 

Angelus moved from behind the tree, his dark eyes following his favorite
childe. He allowed them to drift back to the white house opposite him.
He slowly smiled as the pretty redhead looked out the window, watching
Spike walk down the street. He saw her slim hand reach up and wipe away
a tear before she turned away. He chuckled softly. Yes, it seemed that
things in this town would be quite exciting.  Whistling a tune, he
turned and headed back to Drusilla.
*****

OUT OF THE SHADOWS (5/?)
 

Giles sat back, running a hand over his face. He looked at the dark
haired man seated opposite him and sighed, "This isn't a joke is it?"
 

William shook his head, "I wish it were. I am sorry for everything."
 

Giles grimaced, "Yes, well, that's good to say now. How is Willow
handling this? I trust that she knows?"
 

William turned away from the penetrating eyes, "She won't speak to me,
not that I blame her. I lied to her. I...."
 

Giles softened a bit. He had no idea that the boy was a vampire, but he
had watched the love bloom between the shy hacker and the older man. He
just hadn't realized how much older Bill truly was. "You really had no
choice, in the beginning. Buffy would have staked first, asked questions
later. But, that does not excuse the silence of the last few months."
 

"Will you let me help you?" blue eyes begged.
 

"Of course." Giles shook his head slightly, "I can't believe it. I've
heard rumors of course of a blond haired souled vampire. I never made
the connection. If the council hears about this, I'm afraid I may be out
of a job. A vampire helping us for the last year practically. Neither I
nor the slayer realized it. They'd have a field day."
 

"They won't know. I've helped several slayers throughout the last sixty
years." William said quietly.
 

Giles nodded, "Fine. So, you think your sire is here for a reason other
than what he said. Who exactly is your sire?"
 

William stood and went to the window, his eyes peering into the
darkness. "Angelus."
 

Giles gasped. "Good lord. When it rains, it pours."
 

"You've heard of him?"
 

Giles nodded. "He and his childe painted Europe red in the late
nineteenth century and early twentieth century. He and his favorite
childe were the most feared vampires on that continent. He still is
though his childe disappeared....oh my. You're Spike, aren't you?"
 

William nodded, "Yes, I'm afraid so."
 

"This isn't getting better. We have to get the others. If Angelus is
here after you, I hate to think what he might do. I've read about the
two of you...."
 

"Don't believe everything you've read." William muttered.
 

Giles picked up the phone, ready to call Buffy and the others for an
emergency meeting. "Oh? It isn't true?"
 

William looked at him, and smiled slightly, "The truth is far worse. The
council doesn't know half what Angelus and I did. What he would do if he
thought he could get his Spike, his William back. Call the slayer. We
are going to need them all in on this. It isn't just my life at stake
right now. If he truly believes he has a way to rid me of this curse, he
won't let anyone stand in between him and that solution. Anyone, even
me. I need to make sure there is no way to lift it. Make sure it is a
pointless effort on his part. So, call them."
 

"You seem sure that the curse is irreversible."
 

"The Roma said it was an eternity of suffering. I doubt they made it
easy to lift. I tried, in the beginning. Nothing could be found. Angelus
is on a fool's errand. But, once he realizes that, he will lash out at
everything around him. That's what scares me more than the rest. I know
he can't get his Spike back. I'm worried about the tantrum he will throw
when he doesn't get his way. I can take care of myself with Angelus. It
is the rest of Sunnydale that concerns me." a vision of red hair came to
his mind, tightening his heart as he spoke his fears.
 

"Yes, that frightens me a bit too." Giles said dryly. "I'll get the
others to meet us tomorrow evening. It is too late now to get anything
done. Will you be ok?"
 

"Yes. Angelus won't try anything until he thinks he has an answer.
Besides, he likes to wait and play with his prey before striking. I'll
be at the library tomorrow at dusk." He headed to the door, pausing.
"Tell Willow that I'm sorry. That I never...."
 

Giles smiled softly, "You can tell her yourself, tomorrow. Be careful,
Bill...William."
 

"Always" William smiled slightly. "I much prefer William to Bill. See
what you can find out about the curse, ok?"
 

Giles nodded. He also planned to see what he could learn about Angelus
and Spike, the terrors of Europe. He was curious as to what sort of
vampire Bill had been. He corrected himself, William. He couldn't
imagine what the man had felt when the curse had first hit him.
 

He knew why the vampire had earned the nickname Spike. It had to have
been horrible. Yet, he had survived. There was no self pity in his blue
eyes. He had gotten over it, dealing with the pain in his own way. Giles
knew how difficult it was to forget the past. That young
man...Vampire....was strong. Giles went to his room. His last thoughts
before sleep overtook him were that he hoped that William and Willow
could work things out. He had seen the love the two shared, strange as
that now seemed.
*****
OUT OF THE SHADOWS (6/?)
 

"You bastard." The words were spoken softly but with a lot of emotion.
"She loves you, you undead prick."
 

William turned away from Xander's cold stare and Cordelia's accusing
glare. He saw the slayer staring at him with rage and anger.
 

"I should you stake right here and now and give Willow your ashes as a
present."
 

He looked her in the eye, "Yes, you should. But would that make her
happy?"
 

"Cocky son of a bitch." Buffy hissed before turning to Giles, "So, why
didn't I know the liar was a vampire?"
 

"I assume it was due to his soul." Giles sighed, running his hand
through his hair, "Buffy, I know this is hard. I know it's hard for all
of you, most importantly Willow. But, we need to push aside your
feelings and concentrate on the situation at hand."
 

"That being?" Buffy asked.
 

"Angelus and Drusilla." A soft voice spoke from the door. William looked
over and saw Willow standing there, her book bag overflowing with
papers. She glanced at him and he cursed himself for the hurt and
betrayal he saw there.
 

"Who?" Xander asked, glad that Willow wasn't too upset.
 

"My bloody sire and his bitch." William said grimacing.
 

"Explain please." Cordelia said, not liking the looks on either college
boy's face or Giles'.
 

Willow at the bag down and retrieved a bundle of computer print outs.
"Here is everything I could find on the Net about them."
 

She handed it to Giles before sitting down. She looked at the others,
avoiding Bill...William..Spike, whatever the fuck his name was. "This is
not going to be fun if he wants to play."
 

Buffy saw the seriousness in her friend's eyes and the expression on her
watcher's face. She felt a sense of foreboding fill her. "Why?"
 

Willow looked at her and smiled wryly, "Imagine the most handsome male
you can and take away his soul and remorse. Give him a sadistic streak
and a sarcastic sense of humor. Oh, and a possessiveness and throw in a
few violent urges. That might be as bad as Angelus is rumored to be."
 

"Fuck. He has a sense of humor? Where does that leave me?" Xander asked
dryly, his mind reeling from Willow's statements. The others glared at
him.
 

"He couldn't be that bad..." Buffy said, looking hopeful. She sighed
when Giles just stared at her. "We are so fucked."
 

"He might not be a threat" William said quietly. They looked at him,
their curiosity overwhelming their hatred.
 

"Why do you say that, deception boy?" Buffy asked.
 

William rolled his eyes. He could really do without the little snide
comments. He felt bad enough as it was. "He said he was here for me. He
may have no intention of staying or fighting. Angelus really hates to
get dirty, so to speak."
 

"He just wants you? Why don't we hand over the vamp boy then?" Cordelia
asked.
 

"Not an option." Willow said softly. She was still hurt that he had lied
to her, but after reading about his past, she knew why he hadn't
mentioned anything. "Next plan?"
 

William smiled slightly, catching the watcher's eye. She wouldn't hand
him over. Maybe there was still hope.
 

"We go find him and his little bitch and send their ashes into the
wind?" Buffy asked.
 

"You'd be the one in the wind" William said, causing them to glare at
him. "I'm only speaking the truth. She is no match for him. She'd just
start a game she wouldn't be able to finish. Hell, he's killed four
slayers that I know."
 

"You killed two." Willow said softly, glancing at him. "Of course, if
you were your usual evil self, you could take Buffy too couldn't you?"
 

"Thanks for the vote of confidence Willow." Buffy said dryly, trying to
forget that a killer of two slayers was seated at the table with her.
 

"What are friends for?" Willow said, her eyes still on William's.
 

Xander caught the glares and stares and remarked with his usual wit,
"Can't you feel the love in this room?"
******
OUT OF THE SHADOWS (7/?)
 

It was decided that everyone would wait and see what Angelus' next move
would be. Giles had no desire to start a war that they could not win. He
also felt it best to get Buffy prepared for battle rather than jump
right in. Angelus was more ruthless than even the Master had been. She
had never had an opponent of his caliber. With Drusilla beside him, he
feared that things would get ugly.
 

Willow left the library with Buffy. She had no desire to speak to
William yet. It would be awhile before she could forgive his lies and
ommisions of the truth. She secretly hoped that he waited for her. She
did love him, despite his undead status.
 

Angelus watched the two girls from the shadows. The blonde had to be the
slayer. Slutty little thing, he thought in disgust. He couldn't imagine
her being as good as they all said. He dismissed her from his mind. He
hadn't come to fight the slayer. He just wanted his childe back. He
settled his chocolate brown eyes on Spike's readhead.
 

Comparing the two, he saw no contest. Red would win hands down. She had
an innocence about her that appealed to his demon. Besides being
beautiful, he had learned that she was smart. Spike had always liked a
challenging woman. Yes, she would be worthy of playing with. His eyes
scanned her petite form as he followed them. He could see what had
attracted Spike. The boy had always had good taste.
 

He followed them to Red's house, the slayer leaving on patrol. He smiled
as he moved to the girl's window. He briefly wondered if he should just
go back to Dru, but he knew she was 'fixing the place up' as she put it.
She didn't want any interuptions. Besides, Red was proving a nice
distraction.
 

He wanted to learn what had caused his childe to find love with her...to
choose her over him. He felt no jealousy for the girl. Spike would
always be his, regardless of what the damn whelp said. Once that damn
soul was gone, things would be back to normal.
 

They could go back to Europe and get out of this terrible country. He
hated America. The people irritated him. There was no sense of history.
Their blood was too thin. They just bored him. Maybe they'd head back to
England. Spike had always liked the rain. Angelus saw the girl head up
the stairs and moved behind her house. He intended to wait and see if
his childe came here. If not, he could at least enjoy studying Red and
learning her habits.
*****
OUT OF THE SHADOWS (8/?)
 

Willow sat at the library table her gaze on the smooth brown surface.
She hadn't been sleeping well the last few days. There was really no one
she could talk to about what was troubling her. She was overreacting.
She had to be. Her mind always tricked her. There was no need to be
upset.
 

William saw Willow fidgeting, again, and held a sigh. Something was
bothering her. Since his lie had been discovered, they hadn't spoken
except in terms of research. Everyone pretty much ignored him now unless
it was to cast glares and evil looks. The slayer had broken up with her
bouncer boyfriend, to the happiness of Xander. Cordelia hadn't been
thrilled when the blonde slut had started flirting with the moron. It
was worse than a soap opera.
 

"So, there has been no sign of either of them?" Giles asked.
 

Everyone shook their heads negative. "Nope. I'm beginning to wonder if
they left."
 

"They're around. I saw Drusilla the other night wandering around the
park." William said.
 

"I thought you said you hadn't seen them?" Xander pointed out.
 

"She wasn't harming anyone. Just wandering around as she often did. The
loony bitch listens to the stars."
 

"Just what we need. An evil vampire talking to the stars" Xander said
grimacing. What was it about Sunnydale that attracted nuts?
 

"They're still here. I doubt they plan to leave until they try whatever
it is they have planned." Willow said, glancing up.
 

Buffy stared at her friend, noticing the dark circles under her eyes.
Willow didn't look very well. "Are you ok Will? You look sick."
 

"Fine. Just didn't get a lot of sleep."
 

"Buffy's right, you look like shit." Cordelia offered helpfully.
 

"What is it luv?" William asked softly.
 

Willow looked at him, "Nothing. I'm sure it's nothing."
 

"Why don't you let us decide that? Nightmares?"
 

She shook her head. "I told you, nothing is wrong. I'm fine. Just a lot
of crazy things happening lately. I'd better go. I have a paper due
tomorrow."
 

She started to gather up her books to leave. "I thought you had that
finished yesterday? Didn't you tell me that in study hall today?" Buffy
asked.
 

Willow glanced up, her face flustered. She dropped her books, "I uh
don't remember....I didn't get it done though..."
 

"What the hell is that?" Xander asked, reaching through the papers and
pulling out a beige piece of sketch paper.
 

William's eyes widened as he recognized the workmanship. He
automatically looked at the bottom right hand side of the sketch, seeing
the familiar A. His eyes flew to Willow as he took in the look of fear
in her eyes. Dread filled him as she sat back down.
******
OUT OF THE SHADOWS (9/?)
 

"Talk." William said softly, his voice giving no room to argue.
 

Willow sighed, "I found it on my balcony. There has been on there every
morning for the last four days...."
 

"What's the big deal? It's a good sketch." Buffy asked, speaking the
truth.
 

The sketch was of Willow sleeping, her mouth slightly parted. Her
expression was of innocence undisturbed.
 

"What were the others?" William asked, ignoring the slayer.
 

Willow flushed slightly, "One was me at the computer...one was me
dancing....one was um...after a shower...."
 

The splintering of wood echoed throughout the quiet library. Willow
glanced at William in surprise. He had broken the back off the chair in
front of him. His eyes were gleaming yellow as he seethed with jealousy
and anger.
 

"Uh...did I miss something?" Xander asked.
 

"Let me see that." Giles reached for the sketch. He glanced it over,
taking in the A in the corner. "Good lord...." He looked at William, "It
can't be...."
 

"His move." William spat out, reaching for the sketch. He glanced at it
before folding it up and putting it in his duster pocket. "The damn
bastard.....he wants to fight? He can have a fight....."
 

Willow watched in surprise as he stood. She shrank away slightly, seeing
what he must have been like when he was evil. No, he was probably worse
then. Her green eyes met his, "What are you doing?"
 

"Making my move" He said quietly, "This is just the beginning for
him...."
 

"What's going on?" Buffy asked again.
 

"Angelus. This is how he courts his obsessions. First the drawings...the
stalking...after that comes the killing and insanity....he either kills
them slowly or quickly. Drusilla is the only one he has allowed to
survive. That was more to show off his work, I think. He completely
ruined her. It seems he wants me to believe Willow is next. He wants to
talk. This is his calling card so to speak." William spat out in
disgust. "I told him she wasn't part of it...."
 

"Find out what he wants. Come back here tomorrow. Be careful" Giles
said.
 

They watched as he stormed out, hitting the library doors forcefully.
 

"Wow." Cordelia said softly. "He's pissed."
 

Willow looked after him with worried eyes. Giles just thought to
himself, Who was he kidding? Angelus wasn't stupid, far from it. He had
to know just how much a part of it Willow was. He had just proven that
with his sketch and the reaction that it had caused. He just hoped that
William wasn't walking into some sort of trap.
*****
OUT OF THE SHADOWS (10/?)
 

Angelus felt the hard brick hit his back. He pushed against his
attacker, sending him into the wall opposite them.
 

He smiled as he took in the anger in Spike's yellow eyes, "Ah, baby boy
has come home."
 

William cringed at the patronizing tone, hitting Angelus into the wall
again. "Never, you bastard. I told you to leave her alone."
 

Angelus roared as he pushed Spike against the wall, holding his writhing
body in place. "Listen here Sonny. She isn't marked. She isn't yours.
That means she's fair game. She intrigues me."
 

"She's mine. I told you."
 

"Uh uh...words don't mean a damn thing and you know it. She has no mark.
Hell, she's a virgin for god sake. You haven't claimed her. Nothing I
like better than virgin territory...."
 

William pushed against his sire, but Angelus was stronger. "Don't touch
her."
 

"You can't kill me Spike. It's not in you. If you want her, claim her.
Until then, let the best man win."
 

"Bastard." Willaim spat out.
 

Angelus smiled, "Damn, I've missed you. Why the fuck did you run away?
Acting like a damn scolded puppy. I told you I'd find a way out for you.
Didn't you trust me?"
 

William tried to ignore his sire. He knew how well Angelus could act. He
had to be faking the hurt look in his brown eyes. "I didn't trust
myself."
 

Angelus nodded, understanding his childe. He let his grip relax,
enjoying the feel of Spike in his arms again, even under protest. He
moved closer, letting his mouth slide across the younger man's cheek. "I
did miss you."
 

William cursed his instant erection. It had been so long since he had
fought anyone with such passion. Every time that he and Angelus had
fought, the victor got to claim the loser. He struggled, trying to free
himself. He could not let history repeat itself. He couldn't bare to
live with the consequences.
 

Angelus chuckled as he pressed his hard body against Spike. He felt his
childe's hardness against his leg. Some things never changed. He pulled
away reluctantly, knowing that this wasn't the plan. "As I said, until
you claim her, she's open territory. You know how I love
redheads....wonder how she tastes...."
 

William swung, capturing Angelus in the mouth. He moved out of the
alley, heading to Willow's house. He had known eventually he would make
love with her. He had taken it slow out of love. Now, he had to claim
her. It could mean her life. He hoped she would understand the necessity
of it.
 

Angelus stood, wiping his mouth. He smiled as Dru came from her hiding
place. She moved to him, her tongue darting out to lick the stray blood.
 

"He burns for her." she said simply.
 

"You sure this is the solution?" He asked again, not wanting to risk
losing his childe again now that he was so close to having him back.
 

She nodded, her eyes looking to the sky. "Claiming the girl will free
the demon. We will have our Spike back by dawn."
 

Angelus smiled as he put his arm around her neck and walked out of the
alley, "Good, then we can leave this damn place. What do you think of
England princess?"
 

She wrinkled her nose, "I hate rain."
 

"But remember all the good times?" he said silkily, stroking her
shoulder.
 

She smiled as she looked at him, "Yes. They will like England. The stars
say that's where we should go."
 

Angelus smiled at his victory. It was all coming together. Tonight, if
things went according to what they had learned, his Spike would be back.
By tomorrow, they could leave Sunnydale behind.
*****
OUT OF THE SHADOWS (13/?)
 

"We need to do something about him."

Spike ignored the slayer, letting his gaze rest on Willow. She was
seated at the table, her head on her hands. She wasn't looking at
anyone.
 

"What? Scared he saw you without any make up?" Cordelia asked snidely.
 

"This is serious, bitch queen. He found her at my house. He left her a
gift at my house. He's not scared of me. That doesn't give me warm
fuzzies."
 

"Me either. What was it this time?" Xander asked, only to have them
glare at him.
 

"He's pushing. He appears to be trying to make William play his hand."
 

"What hand?" William asked.
 

"That is the sixty four thousand dollar question, isn't it folks? Which
hand to pick...." Xander trailed off as they glared at him. Why did he
even bother to lighten the situations.
 

"William seems to believe that Angelus is pushing him into consumating
his relationship with Willow."
 

"What?" Willow's head flew up.
 

"He tried to get me to shag you last night. Push it quite hard about
claiming you..." William said softly. "I almost did. Would have if you'd
been home."
 

"You'd have forced me?" Willow said quietly.
 

"I wouldn't have had to" William responded, "But, if I had, I would
have. If it meant saving you from him."
 

"That's great. Raping me to save my life."
 

"I bloody hell didn't do it did I?"
 

"You would have. You two are worse than dogs."
 

"Dogs?" Cordelia asked, trying to follow the conversation.
 

"Dogs." Willow said. "They piss over that they consider their territory.
In this case, I'd have just been fucked."
 

The others looked at her, surprised by her words. They suddenly realized
just how stressed she must be. She never cursed.
 

"Why don't you go home and get some sleep?" Giles suggested.
 

Willow snorted, "As if I could with demon lover stalking me. Fine. I
could use some rest."
 

They watched her leave. "Should I go with her?"
 

"In that mood? Hell, she'll scare the demons away" Cordelia said.
 

"It's too early for Angelus to make a move. If he really is obsessed
with her, he'll take it slow. He loves to torture his victims over
time."
 

"Sounds like a pleasant guy. When do I get to meet him?" Buffy asked
snidely.
 

"If you meet him, plan on dying. He won't leave you alive." William
responded.
 

"That gives me warm fuzzies" Buffy said making a face.
 

"What the hell does Angelus have planned?" William asked the library. No
one had an answer.
 

Angelus watched the girl leave the library alone. He hesitated,
wondering if he should follow her. It was probably a trap. He decided to
wait. He had all the time in the world before moving the game up a
notch, if it came to that. He could smell her innocence in the wind.
Damn fool hadn't claimed her. Ruined everything.
 

He leaned against the tree, watching the slayer and her pups as they
began to open more books. Did they really think they could stop him from
taking what was his with some books? Spike belonged to him, body and
soul. He just needed to realize that. What would it take to get him to
free his demon and claim the little red head? He grinned wryly,
wondering how long they could possibl research.
*****
OUT OF THE SHADOWS (14/?)
 

Willow sat in the coffee bar sipping on her espresso. She hadn't gone home.
She was too wired to just go home and go to sleep. Besides, she wasn't a
wayward child they could send up to her room. She was almost eightteen.
She pulled off a piece of her sticky bun and chewed automatically.
 

She loved this place. Loved the smell of it. Nothing more soothing than
the smell of coffee, to her at least. She would often come here after
research, just sit and watch the people. So many different people came
through those doors. It was interesting to see them all. She loved to
witness first dates. It must be the sadist in her. She loved the
nervousness and soft giggles. The sly looks and gentle touches. They
often made her smile.
 

Tonight, they made her ill. She wanted to see a fight. A big old
screaming, throwing hissy fit. She knew that wouldn't happen so she
would have to be content to have visions of it flow through her head.
Damn William anyway. Thinks I'm his. No one owns me. I'm a damn free
person. He can keep his claiming to himself. Another part of her knew
that he had meant it to save her. When would he realize that she might
not always need saving? She personally didn't think Angelus was doing
anything except playing with her to get to William.
 

She put some money on the table and stood. Going out into the streets,
she smiled at some girls that were in her math class. They chatted a few
minutes about some regular teenage nonsense before she moved down the
street, her hand on the stake in her pocket. What was a regular
teenager? She had no idea.
 

Footsteps behind her, just far enough away that she couldn't hear them.
She was lost in her own world, oblivious to the dark figure following
her. It was time. Luck had brought them to this point. Now, to make a
move. The footsteps sped up, still soft on the sidewalk. Willow hadn't
any idea that someone would be following her. William was sure that
Angelus would not make a move yet. He would drag it out, playing with
them for awhile. She didn't know what hit her as she felt a pain in her
head. She fell to the floor, a smile crossing the face that leaned down
to hers. Lips softly kissed her cheek.
 

"Mine now."
*****
OUT OF THE SHADOWS (15/?)
 

William stretched out, his boots hitting the table and knocking over
Xander's soda. The teen exclaimed as he jumped back, the icy liquid
soaking quickly into his jeans.
 

"Sorry" William said.
 

Xander just glared at him.
 

"It's been a long night. Why don't we all call it an evening?" Giles
suggested.
 

"Let me call Willow if see if she found anything on the web." Buffy
said. She dialed the number as the others began to pick up their books.
Frowning, she hung up. "There was no answer."
 

"What?" William said, his tone even.
 

"She didn't answer." Buffy repeated slowly, as though she were
addressing a one year old instead of a hundred and fifty year old
vampire.
 

William glanced at Giles. "No....it's too soon. Angelus wouldn't take
her this early. He hasn't even started the torture...."
 

"If he has her, I'll stake you myself. I knew I should have walked home
with her."
 

"Buffy, William is right. This wouldn't fit Angelus' MO. I'm sure she
just has her ringer off or she's in the shower."
 

"She does turn it off when she has a paper to write or research to do.
Plays the stereo too loud..." Xander stopped talking. He was going to
learn one of these days that they never listened to him.
 

"I'll go by and check on her on the way home." Buffy said.
 

"I'll go straight there." William said, glaring at her. Willow was his
to protect. He just hoped that they were right.
 

"Fuck! I forgot this" Buffy said, rolling her eyes. She pulled out the
folded note. "Here Giles."
 

"What is it?"
 

"The note that we found this morning, from lover boy. Willow through it
away, but I thought you might need it. Seems sort of dumb now doesn't
it?"
 

"Not at all. I may keep it for the diaries. Not everyday we have one of
Angelus' famous courting notes." Giles said dryly.
 

William barely glanced at the paper. He had no desire to read what words
Angelus had used to taunt Willow. Something flashed in his mind, and he
slowly turned back to them.
 

"Let me see that" he said softly. "No...No bloody way...."
 

"What?" Buffy asked. The others looked at him, growing more worried at
the expression in his eyes.
 

"This isn't his handwriting....or his words. He'd never write something
this nice and poetic. Angelus did not write this."
 

"You're joking?" Buffy said, a feeling of dread going through her.
 

Giles asked the question that was on everyone's minds, "Do you recognize
the writing?"
 

William looked at them, real fear in his eyes for the first time since
this had begun, "It's Drusilla."
*****
OUT OF THE SHADOWS (16/?)
 

Willow opened her eyes and saw nothing. Her arms hurt as did her head
and back. She tried to move her arm but it was fastened over her head.
She remembered someone hitting her and that was it. She was about to
scream when she felt lips on her neck. Startled, she jerked her head
away.
 

"Who's there? Where am I?" she asked, trying to keep the fear from her
voice.
 

She felt a finger against her lips, stopping the questions. She then
felt a hand touch her breast. She realized why she felt so cold. Her
clothes were gone. This time she did scream.
 

"Shh..." a voice said softly, hands kneading her breast.
 

The scream died in her throat. That wasn't Angelus. In fact, it wasn't a
man. Thoughts ran through her mind. Who had taken her? She felt a sense
of foreboding as she realized that Drusilla must have gotten her for
Angelus. Where was he then?
 

"So soft....so pretty....I've always wanted a daughter...." the words
drifted down to her as the hands began to move lightly over her stomach.
 

Willow started to beg no. This couldn't be happening. Where the hell was
Angelus? He should be there stopping that crazy bitch. She felt a finger
slide across her wetness and tried to move away. There was no way in
hell that she was going to have this woman be the first person to touch
her there. Not going to happen.
 

"Those men think they can have you...they hurt...they don't share
nicely....I knew in the park that you were mine....the stars told me all
about you...."
 

"Please....let me go. I don't want to take Angelus away from you. I just
want William..."
 

Willow gasped as she felt two fingers slide into her sharply. "No. Let
Angelus have Spike. It's always been them. I need someone to play with.
So warm....so soft...my sweet Willow...."
 

Willow tossed her head, trying to free her arms. It was no use. She was
tied down very well. She tried to think about Drusilla's words. Was the
vampire right? Would it be Spike and Angelus? She remembered what she
had read about them. Drusilla must have felt left out quite a bit.
Didn't William say she was insane though? How had she managed to go
behind them both to get to her?
 

Drusilla watched her redhead fight for control. Her pale skin had a
light sweat starting to cover it. She hadn't been entirely truthful. She
loved Angelus and Spike. They were her Daddy and her brother. She would
never leave them or do anything to make them hate her. But, she had to
have the redhead. Miss Edith had told her to and the stars had agreed.
For them to all be a family again, she was to do this.
 

She had watched Willow since that first night. Some nights, she had
watched Angelus watch Willow. She wasn't sure what it was about the
young innocent that drew them to her. She did know that the girl was the
key to them being a family again. And, as she'd said, she'd always
wanted a sister or daughter to play with. Women were so soft and
squishy. Not hard and rough like the men were.
 

The scent coming from the redhead drew her in. She ran her tongue over
the girl's wetness, enjoying the unique flavor. She heard a gasp as the
girl realized what she was doing. One taste was not enough. She moved
her face closer, her tongue lapping up the beads of juice. She thrust
her fingers deep, moving them around. She felt the girl begin to move
against her, soft moans coming from her pretty lips.
 

Dru fought the urge to bite. She knew that Spike must be the one to
claim Willow. If not, they would never be a family. She was just suppose
to draw the girl in, get her ready. That was all she was told. She felt
a tingle down in her secret place and moved her hand to her lap. She
felt the girl's thighs tighten around her head. A scream came from the
girl as she came, her sweet juice filling Drusilla's mouth. Dru felt her
own release building as her fingers danced across her clit. She moaned
softly as she orgasmed against her hand.
 

She stood, licking her fingers clean. Looking at the still writhing
girl, she smiled. She could share with her. It would be fun having a
sister to play with. "Sleep while you can. The stars say it will be
tonight."
 

Willow felt shame fill her. She had just had her first orgasm at the
hands of the female vampire. Where was William?

******
OUT OF THE SHADOWS (17/?)
 

Angelus leaned against the tree as Spike left the school. He moved
towards him. He could sense that something was wrong.
 

"Spike, my boy. What's got you in such a tizzy?"
 

William looked at Angelus, his eyes blazing with anger and worry, "That
insane bitch of yours has Willow."
 

Angelus stopped smiling, "What?"
 

"Dru. She's been stalking her. We thought it was you....thought you were
playing. Where are they?"
 

"Dru? No. She'd never challenge us like that. There has to be a
reason..."
 

"You can analyze your girlfriend's mental stability later. Where is
Willow?"
 

Angelus thought a moment then smiled, "Dru may have her at the house. I
doubt she'd go anywhere else. Come on."
 

William followed Angelus, his demon straining to break loose and reclaim
what belonged to him. If Dru harmed one hair on Willow's head, he'd
stake her. Hell, he might stake her anyway.
 

"Dru, princess. Are you in here?" Angelus called out as he went inside.
 

"Yes Daddy." She said, entering the room. She saw William and smiled,
"They were right. They told me that you would come if I took her."
 

"Where is she?" Angelus asked before William could open his mouth.
 

Dru pouted, "You're angry. I was just trying to help. The stars told me
this was the way."
 

"Where is Willow?" William demanded.
 

"Upstairs" Dru said, "Last door on the left. Don't be angry at me
Daddy...."
 

Angelus sighed loudly, "I'm not angry, love. Just disappointed. I told
you that we had a plan."
 

"I had a plan too. Mine will work. Just wait and see." She smiled
mysteriously as she went past him to sit down.
 

"What plan?" Angelus asked. There were times he loved her to death, and
others he really just wanted to see her dust.
 

"Can't tell. It might not work if I tell."
 

"Dru..."
 

"England, right Daddy?"
 

He shook his head. It was no use trying to talk to her when she was like
this. "Yes, princess. England."
 

He sat down, waiting to see what Dru's plan was and if it worked.
***
OUT OF THE SHADOWS (18/?)
 

William opened the door and walked inside. He flipped the light on and
froze. He felt himself harden instantly. Willow was laying on the bed,
naked. Her arms were tied above her head, causing her perfect breasts to
be a bit more pronounced. She had a blindfold covering her green eyes.
He could see the glistening wetness between her legs. He could smell the
scent of sex in the air. He closed his eyes, struggling with himself.
 

Willow heard the door open and waited. She hoped that woman left her
alone. She couldn't stand for her to touch her again...to bring her
pleasure that way. William was the only one she wanted to touch her. She
heard footsteps as Dru made her way to the bed. She took a deep breath
and waited.
 

William smiled slowly. His eyes flashed yellow as he began to strip off
his clothes. Tonight, he would claim her. He felt his demon break free
from its prison as his cock continued to harden. He leaned down, licking
at her wetness.
 

"Please...no...Drusilla...please leave me..." Willow begged. Her body
betrayed her, feeling ever more aroused than before. A light touch on
her legs and she realized that this wasn't Dru.
 

"Shh...luv....let Spikey make it all better." William said as he plunged
his tongue inside her. She gasped and bucked against his head. He moved
his hands around to cup her ass as he feasted on her juices. When he
felt her ready to cum, he moved over her, their mouths meeting.
 

Willow ached for him. She must be dreaming. He had never even kissed her
before, much less tried this. Only in her dreams had they been together
this way. She felt his tongue capture her mouth and sighed against him.
She rubbed herself on his body, startled to find him nude, hard and
cold. It had to be a dream.
 

Spike entered her slowly, careful of her virgin barrier. He felt the
resistance give, allowing him to sink himself deep into her. He heard
her sharp cry of pain and cringed. His demon felt her pain, stopping his
thrusts. When he was sure she was ready, he began to move. Soon, she was
thrusting against him, taking what he gave her.
 

Willow felt as though every nerve ending in her body was on fire. She
had an ache in her that was slowly being replaced by a pleasant filled
filling. She wished that she could see his face. As though he could read
her mind, the blindfold was removed. She looked into his blue eyes,
relieved to see the man she loved.
 

Spike watched her face as she neared her breaking point. He felt her
tighten even more around his cock as she cried out his name. He sunk
into her quickly, sending his seed into her. He bit into her neck
sharply, claiming what belonged to him. She whimpered at the bite but
soon was holding his head in place.
 

Willow watched his face as he pulled away from her neck. His eyes looked
at her softly. "William...." she breathed contently.
 

He smiled, shaking his head slowly. "Try again, luv."
 

Her eyes widened, "Spike?"
 

"Yeah, baby. I'm back."
****
OUT OF THE SHADOWS
 

Willow shook her head, her red hair tangled against the pillow. "No" she
said softly.

Spike smiled, his fingers going through her hair, "Yes, pet. I'm back."

"Oh God....William...."

He tightened his hold. When he saw the tears in her eyes, he relented
slightly, "Call me Spike. William was that useless whelp with a soul.
He's dead."

Willow looked into his eyes. He was wrong. She could see her William
there, behind the coldness. She ached to bring her hand up to push back
a lock of his brown hair. "As long as you're around, William will be.
You are the same man, with or without your soul."

Spike pulled away, not wanting to hear her words. She was wrong. William
was weak. Hell, he'd spent almost a year helping the bloody
slayer....panting after a human. It was pathetic. William was pathetic.
"Sorry, doll. I ain't buying what you're selling. Well...that depends on
what else you're selling."

"Don't...." she said quietly.

He looked at her, eyebrows arched, "Don't what? Remind you that you are
in love with a vampire? What happened to me and him being the same, soul
or not?"

"William would never hurt me this way."

Spike laughed, "Luv, he lied to you. Remember that detail? You're
actually pretty right. He and I are the same, he just had regrets. I
don't. I've wanted you since that first night I saw....even before that
bitch came to town. You're the reason he helped them at all. Hell,
you're the reason I'm back."

"How?" She challenged. She was not going to accept the accusation that
it was her fault William's soul had been lost. She ignored the fear of
Spike and concentrated on her love for William.

"That I don't really know. We can always ask Dru." He smiled as she
bristled at the woman's name. "You remember her don't you? From what I
could smell, you and she got pretty close before I got here."

"I want to leave." Willow said, pulling against her restraints.

"Sorry pet. No can do. I may be a bastard, but you're mine. I love you
the same as he did." He saw the fear in her eyes and sighed loudly,
"Damn it. Back less than an hour and already have to play the sap.
Friggin' women."

She pulled again at her bonds. It was useless. Drusilla had fastened her
too well. "Please let me up. My arms hurt."

Spike sat down, running his hand across her cheek. "I won't hurt you
Willow. Anymore than William would have. Can't make any promises about
the others though."

"You can't kill them" she pleaded.

He smiled slightly, "There are far worse things than death, luv. Even
William envisioned torturing them a few times. He just had that damn
soul to get in the way."

"Spike..." she breathed softly.

His smile widened at his name on her lips. "I like how you say that."

He untied her hands and handed her a shirt. "Get dressed pet. Time to
let Daddy know baby boy is back and better than ever."

"Angelus is here?" Willow said, fear in her voice. Good lord. They were
having a damn family reunion.

"Of course pet. How do you think William found you? I wonder if he's
punished Dru for taking you yet..."

"Good grief, you almost sound disappointed that you might have missed
it." She grumbled, buttoning the shirt. She was jerked back, his eyes
burning into hers.

"She touched what was mine. I know she was doing it for the family, but
that isn't important. I have to let her know that it won't happen
again."

"You're hurting me..."

"Saying that a lot pet." he remarked as he let her go. His slim fingers
finishing the buttons.

"You're doing it alot" she replied softly.

He looked up at her and she could see traces of her William. "Don't mean
to. Been awhile since I've been here."

She drew in a breath at the familiarity in his eyes. They were both
right. He had changed when he had lost his soul. He wasn't her William
anymore, but he also wasn't Angelus' Spike. She wondered how Angelus
would deal with that. She took his hand and followed him down the
stairs. Down to officially meet his Daddy and sister. If Buffy could see
her now.....
****
OUT OF THE SHADOWS (20/?)
 

Angelus glanced up, a smile on his face, as Spike strode into the room.
He knew instantly that Dru's plan had worked. This was not the souled
version.
 

Spike held Willow's hand as he glanced at Drusilla. He dismissed her.
Now was not the time to talk to her. He was still irritated at her
having been the first one to make Willow orgasm. He had waited for
almost a year just to have the bitch come into town and claim his prize.
He instead focused his blue eyes on Angelus.
 

It was great to see him again. He'd missed him the last sixty years. He
felt the familiar need go through him as he stared into warm chocolate
eyes. Willow tensed beside him. He could feel her fear and confusion.
The poor thing had had a lot happen to her in such a short time. He
rubbed his thumb over her hand, offering comfort. He soon felt her fear
diminish.
 

"Spike." Angelus greeted smiling. "I missed you my boy. Told you to
trust me."
 

Spike snorted, a wry smile crossing his lips, "What took you so long,
pops?"
*****
OUT OF THE SHADOWS (21/?)
 

"What took me so long?" Angelus repeated slowly. "Who was it that ran
away?"
 

Spike rolled his eyes, "You should have found me. But, that's the past.
Today is the future. I forgive you."
 

Angelus started to laugh, "That's the Spike I remember. See you and Red
closer."
 

Spike bristled, "She's mine. No one touches."
 

Angelus felt anger simmering. He had risked everything to find a cure
for Spike's problem. This was how he was repaid? The damn brat hadn't
even thanked him yet. "I'm your sire."
 

"Don't care. She's mine."
 

"Listen here you thin skinned tosser, if I want her she's mine. Right of
sire and all that bull shit. As it is, I don't want her. Not against
your wishes that is. You've been away too long Spike. Forgot the rules."
 

Spike smirked, "Ain't forgotten anything Dad. Just don't think they are
too important when compared to my Willow."
 

Angelus frowned slightly. It was Spike, but it wasn't. It was almost as
though part of that damn soul had stayed. He glowered, trying to figure
out what had happened.
 

Spike saw the confusion and softened. He let go of Willow's hand, moving
forward. He embraced his sire, kissing him deeply. Pulling away, he said
softly, "Thanks Dad. I feel much better now...."

*******
OUT OF THE SHADOWS (22/?)
 

Willow watched as William kissed Angelus. Spike, she mentally corrected
herself. She was going to have to get use to that name. Yes, she
admitted to herself that she still loved him despite his soul having
gone. She didn't want to lose him.
 

Spike pulled back, running his hand briefly over his sire's face.
"Missed you Dad."
 

"You're not the same are you?" Angelus said quietly, acceptance in his
voice.
 

Spike grinned, "Better and more improved." He turned serious, holding
out a hand towards Willow. She took it and stepped closer into the room,
his shirt swallowing her up as she moved. "I don't really get it mates.
I know I lost the soul. Don't feel like I use to though."
 

Drusilla spoke, "You didn't lose the soul."
 

"What?" Angelus demanded of his female childe.
 

She looked at him, her eyes fearful for a moment. "He can't lose it. The
demon is back, as you wanted. He just still has the soul too." She spoke
softly, her voice almost childlike, "You said you wanted even part of
him back....it was all I could find..."
 

Angelus felt a wave of irritation. Shaking his head, he glanced at
Spike, "This mean you're still soft?"
 

Spike's eyes flashed yellow, "Not even close old man."
 

"Then what the hell is the soul for?" Angelus asked. He was getting a
headache.
 

"He loves." Dru said simply, gesturing to Willow. "She keeps the demon
tamed, the soul in place. That was the only way to free him from the
curse. He is your Spike in most ways" she said to Angelus.
 

"But, because of his love for the slayer's pet, he isn't the same."
 

"Blimey." Spike said, his hand still holding tightly to Willow's. "If I
lost her, what would happen?"
 

Dru glanced at him, "You would be damned" she whispered. "Spend eternity
in hell."
 

Angelus drew in an unneeded breath. "You knew this and you still allowed
me to push it?"
 

Dru nodded, "It will be fine. The stars told me. She loves him. He has
no need to worry. She is with him."
 

"She's a human. What is she dies?" Angelus was upset. He would rather
have had a souled William then have to see his childe spend eternity in
hell.
 

Dru smiled, "She won't."
 

"Did the bloody stars tell you that one too?" Spike demanded.
 

Willow couldn't understand everything that was happening. It was too
confusing. Dru didn't help matters with her talk of stars and curses. If
William lost her, he'd go to hell? It just didn't make sense.
 

"Not the stars." Dru said smiling, "It was arranged by the curse. Don't
worry though. Miss Edith told me all about it. She told me what to do. I
fixed it.....for the family. Daddy has Spike back and I get a sister."
 

Angelus looked at Dru. The look of slight madness in her eyes appeared
even worse than usual. With a feeling of dread, he asked, "Princess,
what exactly did you do to 'fix' it?"
****
OUT OF THE SHADOWS (23/?)
 

Drusilla smiled at the look in Angelus's eyes. He didn't trust her.
After all these years he actually doubted her abilities. "I fixed it.
Must you know everything?"
 

Angelus moved quickly, pinning her to the couch. He held her chin
tightly, "Yes I must."
 

Drusilla shivered in excitement. She'd been naughty. Daddy had to punish
her. "Daddy likes the new Spike. I can tell."
 

Angelus rubbed his hard cock against her and saw the lust flare in her
eyes, "What did you do Princess?"
 

She licked her lips, "I found something. It was old."
 

"What the bloody hell did she find?"
 

Angelus looked at Spike and smiled slightly, "We'll find out. She's been
a bad girl. A bad bad girl. You remember what happens to bad girls don't
you my boy?"
 

Spike smiled suddenly. He remembered. Boy did he remember. His cock
hardened just thinking about the blood and torture. He heard Willow's
soft sigh beside him. He'd almost forgotten she was there. He looked at
her. "You might want to go upstairs pet. This won't be pretty."
 

"I want to know what she did. I'm involved in this too." She said
simply. "Why does she think I won't just leave you?"
 

Dru laughed quietly. "I like my new sister. She's so pretty. You should
see her face when she screams out. So much fire" she spoke to Angelus,
her eyes lovingly caressing Willow.
 

Willow knew her face was red. "Why won't I leave him?"
 

"You can't my pretty Willow. I wanted to keep you."
 

"Dru." Angelus warned, "If you want to be punished, just tell us what we
need to know."
 

She pouted, her lower lip going out. "No fun. Fine. I bonded them. It
was something Miss Edith told me about. She can't leave him now. No
choice in it. Being away from him will slowly drive her insane."
 

"No" Willow said quietly. She didn't want to think about her future
being decided for her. Not by some damn doll.
 

"Yes" Dru said, looking at her. She frowned she saw the scared look in
the green eyes. "Don't be afraid my pretty one. We you will be us
forever now. A nice family. Miss Edith said that we would change, but
that I would love having you as a sister and playmate."
 

"Bloody hell....I don't want Willow to have to remain with me against
her will." Spike said, shaking his head.
 

"I love you" Willow said softly to him. "I just don't like not having a
choice."
 

"He doesn't either" Angelus pointed out. She looked at the dark haired
man in surprise. "Remember? Dru said if you left him, he goes to hell. I
will not allow that. I think we need to find out what spell Dru used and
see if we can find some solution to her mess."
 

"There isn't one" Dru said. "We are a family now. Forever. Aren't you
happy?"
 

"Why do you keep saying forever? I could die anytime. Then
William...Spike has to go to hell. This is bad. This is very bad."
 

"No. I would never do that" Drusilla said, panic in her voice. "I fixed
it. You can't die."
 

They froze and looked at her, "What?"
 

"Princess, what exactly was the spell?"
 

Drusilla sighed, "I was bad wasn't I?"
 

"You should have asked first, luv."
 

"I thought it would make things easy. You love her don't you?" she asked
Spike.
 

He nodded, "More than I've loved any other woman."
 

"The spell formed a bond between you. When you made love, it released
it. The demon was free to roam, but he can't take over. That was the
curse that was placed on you. When you found love, pure happiness, you
would be bonded to the woman who had given it to you. The bond was to
last until she died. If seperated, you go to hell and she goes insane.
That was the curse. It meant to send you to hell upon your love's
death."
 

"Fucking gypsies. It was all a set up then. Just a waiting game until I
found love. They always meant for me to suffer more."
 

"What did you do Drusilla?" Angelus asked.
 

"I fixed it by making the bond stronger. The spell I did gave part of
the demon to the one you loved but it made you keep the soul. By doing
that, sharing the demon, it caused her to become immortal. She can never
die now so the curse is no longer valid. It was the only thing I could
do. I knew you loved her and would make love with her. If she stayed
human, you could have been sent to hell as soon as she died." Dru said
apologetically.
 

Willow didn't understand it all. Was she immortal? She shook her head.
"I can't deal with this. Not now. What's going on?"
 

Angelus touched Dru's cheek. "You did well, princess. But, you were
naughty for not explaining to me first."
 

"I get to be punished?" she asked softly.
 

"Yes."
 

Spike held Willow in  his arms. He wouldn't admit it, but he was glad
that Dru had done her spell. It meant that Willow would always be his.
He wanted to know more though. "Maybe the watcher will know something
else about this."
 

Willow looked at him, "We can ask...."
 

"You love me even like this?" he asked in wonderment.
 

"Even like that" she responded, kissing him softly.
****
OUT OF THE SHADOWS (24/?)
 

Rupert Giles stared at the two people sitting across from him. He knew
instantly that they were speaking the truth. William was different.
There was something edgier about him....a dangerous glint in his eyes
that had been missing previously. He looked at Willow and frowned. She
didn't seem to understand the entire situation. Her love for a souled
vampire clouding her judgement. He hoped sincerely that she would not be
hurt.
 

"Drusilla gave you a copy of the spell?" he asked tightly. There was no
need to voice his displeasure at the turn of events. It was neither of
their faults that this had happened. And, if it was as Drusilla had
claimed, it might have been the best choice for all involved, though he
would never voice that opinion aloud.
 

"Here" Willow said, handing over the paper. She was still in shock. Too
much had happened so quickly. She couldn't even begin to understand the
ramifications of Dru's spell. She just knew that William would not
suffer in hell. That was enough for her, at the moment. She felt his
cold hand on hers and smiled softly at him.
 

She could see the differences. He had a different aura about him now. He
was cockier, a bit more arrogant. He also wasn't as quiet as he had
been. He had a wicked sense of humor and loved to tell her lively
stories of his past. Use to, he never spoke of his past. Now, he did so
free of guilt. She could still see the subtle traces of conscience in
his blue eyes, but it no longer controlled his life. She rather like the
changes, so far. He seemed happier. Even Angelus was happy with the
changes. She felt a blot of jealousy thinking of the handsome dark
haired vampire. It was easy to see that William, Spike she corrected
herself, loved his sire unconditionally. The love was returned. She
could see what Dru meant about being left out. It was almost as though
no other existed when those two got to talking.
 

"Let me look it over. I'll see what I can find out."
 

"Thank you, Watcher" Spike said. He wanted answers to whether Willow was
in danger or not. He didn't want anything to happen to her.
 

"I'll be in class tomorrow." Willow said quietly. "Tell Buffy I'll talk
to them at lunch about everything. Don't tell me. Ok?"
 

"I'll leave that to you" Giles said. "Are you ok?"
 

She smiled, "I'm fine. Dru insists I'm immortal, but my heart is still
beating. I still feel hungry. I think something messed up in her spell."
 

"Well, there is a good chance you would retain your physical living
characteristics until your first 'death' so to speak. But, let me look
into it a bit before you go out and try to get yourself killed."
 

"Don't have to worry about that. I don't want to die, even if
technically I might not. I'll be at Will..Spike's tonight. Take care."
 

Giles watched them leave before reaching for the phone. He had some
people to call. He needed to know the answers to their questions. For
them and for himself.
****
OUT OF THE SHADOWS (25/?)
 

Spike glanced up and frowned, "What?"
 

Angelus just smirked.
 

"If you don't tell me why you're sitting there like the cat that ate the
damn canary, I'm going to do something rash." Spike threatened.
 

"Oh, no. Not that" Angelus said, mockingly.
 

"Angelus..."
 

Angelus laughed, "It's just great to have you back. Even in that watered
down version."
 

"Watered down version? Watered down version?" Spike said, his voice
level rising.
 

"I may be older than you, but my hearing isn't gone yet. I heard you the
first time" Angelus said, smiling.
 

"Bloody wanker. To think I missed this at one time...." Spike muttered.
 

"Willow telling the slayer today?" Angelus asked, the smile leaving his
face.
 

"Yes" Spike said. "She doesn't want me around. Thinks the slayer might
aim first then ask questions."
 

"She won't," Angelus said confidently.
 

"What makes you so bloody sure?"
 

"She loves Willow. She won't do anything to hurt her. You should be
safe, for awhile. By then, we'll be on the way to England."
 

Spike shook his head, "So eager to leave. You just got here." He ran a
hand through his dark hair.
 

"I hate this town. Besides, it is too tempting to kill the slayer. Can't
do that to Red." Angelus said, his attention on Spike's hair. "I still
can't get used to that."
 

"What?" Spike asked, not following his sire's train of thought.
 

"The hair. Reminds me of the early days when it's that color."
 

"I know" Spike said, grimacing. "I think I may have to go back to
blonde. Besides, it would make things easier for Willow. She wouldn't
look at me and see soul boy if I were blonde again."
 

"Always for Willow" Angelus said, the smirk coming back to his face.
 

"Shut up, you bloody poof. You're just jealous I found her first."
 

"That I am, my boy. She's quite a woman."
 

"My woman. Don't forget that." Spike said, a smile on his face but
seriousness in his voice.
 

"How could I with you two reminding me every damn minute?" Angelus said
crossly. He still couldn't believe the redhead didn't want him more than
his childe. It hurt his ego to be second best. He wouldn't push it
though. Hell, he had Spike back. And, eventually, he'd have Red too. Of
that he was sure. He could share with his childe. They'd done it many
times in the past. He knew she was weakening. Once they got her away
from Sunnydale, she'd be theirs.

*******
OUT OF THE SHADOWS (26/?)
 

"This is a joke, right?" Buffy said, smiling.
 

Willow frowned and shook her head. "No joke. I'm serious."
 

"No...he couldn't have lost his soul...."
 

"He did, sort of." Willow said, looking at Giles for help.
 

Giles cleared his throat. "It appears that the curse had a clause, so to
speak. When William and Willow uh well, you know, the curse was revoked
and he lost his soul. The stipulation was that the one who took it from
him would be bound for the remainder of her life. Upon her death, he
would be sent to hell for eternity."
 

"Harsh." Xander said softly. "He must have really pissed those gypsies
off."
 

"Dru wouldn't let that happen" Willow said, continuing for Giles. "She
fixed a counter spell that let him retain part of his soul and gave me
part of his demon. We're still bound, but it's for eternity."
 

"Wait a minute. You're calling the loony bitch Dru now? What did I
miss?" Buffy said angrily.
 

"She saved him, Buffy. I'd call her mother if she wanted me to. If he
and I had gotten together, he would have become the original Spike. I'd
have died first thing by his hands. That's what the Roma knew. It was
all a setup. He'd go to hell as soon as the curse was lifted. I can't
even imagine what that would have been like for him."
 

"You'd have been dead so it wouldn't really matter" Cordelia pointed
out.
 

"You're right. See? She saved me too."
 

"This is fucked up" Buffy said. "You had sex with William, turned him
into Spike, say that you're bound to him for eternity, and you're
calling the insane vampire Dru. Where was I when all this happened?"
 

"Patrolling?" Xander offered. He flinched at Buffy's look. "Hey, I'm not
happy about all this much either. But, Willow is alive. She's happy, or
is giving an Oscar caliber performance. So, I can deal. As long as Spike
doesn't decide he wants to taste my neck, I can still put up with the
deadboy."
 

Willow smiled softly, "Thank you Xander."
 

"Did you doubt me?" He asked, staring at her. "We're best buds, Will.
I'll always stand by you. But, keep him away from my neck, OK?"
 

"Yes Xander. I'll tell him not to even look at it."
 

"Xander's right. William was a good guy. Hell, he saved me several
times. So, he lost part of his soul. He still loves Willow, so he can't
be that bad. Besides, maybe it will improve his wardrobe. All that black
is so melodramatic."
 

Willow laughed softly. She couldn't believe Xander and Cordelia had
accepted everything so easily. She was also thrilled that no one had
asked about that eternity part. She still didn't have answers to that
one. "Buffy?"
 

Buffy sighed, "Willow, you're my best friend. William was a good guy. He
proved that over the last year. It's just too much to comprehend right
now. I'm sorry. Give me some time. I don't want to lose you, but I don't
know what to think right now..."
 

Willow nodded. "I can give you time. I'm still trying to deal with it
all myself. Giles, thank you. I had better go now. Spike will be
expecting me soon. Don't want him to send out a search party."
 

She left, calling goodbye to everyone. Buffy watched the door swing shut
before letting out a breath. "What the hell is going to happen next?"
she asked softly.
*****
OUT OF THE SHADOWS (27/?)
 

Willow looked at Spike and slowly smiled. He stood, shifting on his feet
as he waited for her reaction.
 

"You're blonde" she said simply.
 

He shrugged, "Heard they have more fun."
 

"You weren't having enough fun?" she asked, deliberately needling him.
 

"Pet" he said warningly.
 

She laughed, "I like it. It fits Spike. Almost white. Brings out your
cheekbones and your eyes....It'll do."
 

"Stop. You'll make me blush." He said drolly, pleased that she liked it.
He had often worn it light when he was roaming Europe. This time, he'd
simply had Angelus turn a hairstylist. It was professionally done. He
was rather proud of it, though he couldn't see what he looked like.
Willow was happy with it.
 

"I told them" Willow said suddenly. She had almost forgotten her earlier
encounter.
 

"And?" he asked, forgetting about his hair. He went to her, his arms
going around her shoulders. She laid her head on his chest, her cheek
against the soft material of his shirt.
 

"Buffy didn't take it well. Everyone else was actually pretty cool with
it. I'm scared."
 

He pulled back and looked into her serious green eyes, "Why luv?"
 

"I can't lose you. Buffy scares me. She's my best friend, but she's the
slayer first. She considers you a threat now. What if she tries
something?"
 

He wanted to reassure her, but he couldn't think of the right words.
Personally, the slayer worried him. Angelus wanted them to just leave
Sunnydale, go to Europe. That idea was sounding better and better.
Thinking of Angelus, Spike felt mixed emotions fill his mind.
 

He loved his sire....thought of him as a lover and a friend. But, he'd
seen the looks that Angelus had given Willow. He didn't like them. Not
at all. He had no intention of allowing Angelus access to Willow. If
they went to Europe, he knew Angelus expected to fall into the same
familiar pattern. They would share both Dru and Willow. He couldn't do
it. There would be no sharing. He had to make sure Angelus understood
that. Otherwise, he and Willow could survive on their own.
 

"We'll think of something pet. She just may surprise you. Maybe your
friendship means more to her than her duty as slayer. She didn't stake
me before."
 

"You were harmless then. You aren't anymore. Not technically. You just
don't run out and kill now, but you could. That's the difference. Let's
not think about it now. Ok?"
 

Spike smiled, rubbing his thumb underneath her eye and capturing a tear.
"Why don't we go someplace nice. Have a little fun. Try to forget the
bad things that have happened lately."
 

Willow knew he was trying to cheer her up. God, how she loved him. "I
know the perfect place."
 

"Where Red?"
 

"Somewhere nice and cosy where we can spend time together without
interfering sires and nosy slayers."
 

"Again, I ask where?"
 

She leaned closer, her mouth against his ear, "Upstairs.....your bed."
 

Spike grinned and pulled her close, "Best idea I've heard all day."

******
OUT OF THE SHADOWS (28/30)
 

Drusilla snuggled closer to Angelus. His hand stroked her hair as he
smiled softly. He may not show it always, but he did love his raven
haired beauty. He knew she knew and that was all that was important.
Spike would always be first in his heart, always. He had been the first
true childe that Angelus had had. A lover, a companion, a friend. For
years before Drusilla was even born. Dru had been with him just as long
now though. Since the curse that had driven Spike away, she had helped
him search for a cure. She too loved his childe, her brother. She truly
was his mate, he admitted to himself. He smiled wryly, he was getting
soft.
 

Spike nibbled on Willow's neck, her hand in his blonde hair holding him
close. It had been two weeks. From what the watcher had learned, Dru's
spell was irreversible. Willow would gain immortaility upon her death.
It could not be changed. They had accepted that and moved on. He was
thrilled that he would never lose her. She was glad that she had a few
more years before she would no longer age. Giles had recommended waiting
until she was in her twenties before having her die. Spike rememebered
that conversation and smiled softly. Nothing more strange than to sit
around and discuss her eventual death so glibly.
 

Willow glanced at Angelus and saw him smiling down at Dru. She was glad
that he had begun to quit eyeing her as much. She liked him,
surprisingly. He was an interesting guy. Very sexy too. She just knew
that she could never be with him like that. She had been worried that he
would the issue and hurt her relationship with Spike. He hadn't. She
also knew that he could be waiting, giving her time. She didn't know if
that would help, but she would be thankful for it nonetheless.
 

She hadn't spoken to Buffy since the library. She also hadn't seen the
slayer stalking Spike so she wasn't worried. Buffy said to give her
time. She planned to do that for as long as she could. She felt eyes on
her and caught Dru's glance. She smiled slightly at her new friend and
received a smile in return. Both women know that Spike and Angelus were
recapturing their past relationship. They too had accepted it and moved
on. Willow had no fear about Spike leaving her for Angelus. Nor did Dru
fear losing Angelus. Instead, the women had become closer, becoming
great friends. Willow often remembered that first night with fondness.
Not that she wanted to repeat it, but she owed Dru quite a bit.
 

Spike hit the button on the tele, turning it off. "Time for sleep,
ducks. You have school in the morning."
 

Willow sighed, "Yes Dad."
 

She had pretty much moved into the house, only going to her own to pick
up clothes. Spike made sure she got her homework done and got to school
on time. He told her that he had no intention of taking her away from
the things she loved. She was glad school was out in a few weeks. She'd
have all summer to spend with them....her family.
*****
OUT OF THE SHADOWS (29/30)
 

Spike fell to the alley floor, hitting his head on the wall. He stood,
his fangs shining in the night. "You'll pay for that you bloody bitch."
 

"Ooohh...tough words from the big bad vampire. Come on, Peeet.  Show me
what you got."
 

Spike felt anger rise in him, the demon pushing the soul away. He moved
quickly, gathering the blonde bitch by her hair. He threw her against
the wall and enjoyed the sound of her body hitting the brick. "Sorry,
slayer. I promised Willow I wouldn't fight. Seems she still likes you
even though you ignore her. Doesn't want to attend your funeral any time
soon."
 

Buffy stood, dusting herself off. She glared at the smiling blonde and
almost smiled. She instead said angrily, "You're scared of me."
 

"Who was winning luv?" Spike asked sarcastically.
 

"Some vampire. Can't even fight the slayer. Thought you lost your soul,
wimp boy."
 

"Sticks and stones, slayer." Spike said in a sing song voice. He stopped
smiling, "I won't kill you. If I do, I lose Willow. If you kill me, you
lose Willow. I'd say that we are at a stand off here."
 

Buffy sighed, "You're right, much as I hate to admit it. I do care for
her, I just hate seeing her stuck with you forever."
 

"Thanks." Spike muttered, rolling his blue eyes.
 

"Welcome" Buffy said impishly. "Fine. Peace. For now. But know that I
will be watching you and your little friends. One screw up and you'll be
dust. That goes for them too...." she let her sentence drop, eyeing him
threateningly.
 

"Shaking in me boots slayer." Spike said, worried about her bringing Dru
and Angelus into the fight. Angelus would kill her without blinking. Dru
might be able to fight her, if she were expecting it. There was still
the element of surprise though. He didn't like it. Not at all. "Now, if
you're done getting beaten up, I have a sexy redhead waiting up for me."
 

Buffy frowned. She had meant to scare him, yet he seemed unfazed. She
wanted nothing more than to stick a stake through his heart right then,
but she didn't want to risk upsetting Willow. Besides, she still had no
idea what the spell did exactly. "Love the hair, Blondie" she called
out. She heard him chuckle as he turned the corner. There had to be a
way to get him away from Willow.
*****
OUT OF THE SHADOWS (30/30)
 

Willow stared into the night sky, her green eyes counting the stars. She
remembered the past week and frowned slightly. So much had happened. So
many things that could never be taken back.
 

Buffy had chosen her position, against Willow. She had gone after Spike,
failing to coerce him into fighting. When she realized that he wouldn't
be an opponent, she'd gone after the others. Angelus had barely escaped
a sneak attack. He had wanted blood after that. It had taken a lot of
talking to convince him not to kill Buffy. Willow knew that she would
never have her friend back, but Sunnydale couldn't lose the slayer. She
didn't want Buffy hurt.
 

That had changed though. Buffy had found Drusilla. Willow had stumbled
upon them fighting just in time. She had stepped in front of the stake
that was meant for her new friend. She had watched in horror, along with
Buffy, as the stake had pierced her heart. She had seen Buffy running
off, felt Dru's arms around her, soft words in her mind as she had died
at age seventeen. When she had woken up, her family and friends had been
waiting for her. It was surprising to see Xander and Cordelia seated
next to Angelus and Dru. All four had matching expressions of worry and
concern.
 

So, on that day, Willow had died at the hands of her best friend. The
spell had worked as they had all found out. Buffy had run away to her
father's in LA. She had finished the school year there giving Willow
time before she had to return to her duty. Willow knew the council was
considering removing Buffy and allowing a new slayer to take her place.
She no longer cared what happened to her old friend.
 

She felt an arm around her and turned to Spike, smiling. She kissed him
softly as the train moved. She caught the knowing smirks on Angelus and
Dru's face as Spike moved his hand underneath the blanket. She just
glared at them playfully before turning back to the window and laying
her head against him. She smiled softly listening to chatter from her
new family as the train took them to the next town. One chapter of her
life had closed when she had died, but it had opened another for her and
Spike. She was where she belonged, with him. With them all. Miss Edith
had been right. She loved England.
 
 

*************THE END****************
 
 

read the Sequal 'Fading Shadows'

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