The Picture

Author: midnight

Email: goodnight_sg@yahoo.com

Parts: 11 - 24 (End)

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~Part: 11~

A part of Willow was confused. "Why? Why would you do that? Why would you give this to me?"

Spike looked up into her eyes and misread the emotions that danced across her face. He thought she would reject him. <Bugger that. No way is some human chit gonna reject me. I just won't let her get close emotionally. I'm a demon, should be easy enough.> Preparing himself to get hurt, he put a shield around his emotions. "It's not a big issue luv," he replied flippantly. "Anything happens to you and I become dust. Don't really fancy that."

"Oh," she said quietly as she looked away. <Should've know better, Willow. You will not put your feelings on the line and get your hopes up, just to have them crushed. Feelings? When did I get feelings for him? He's the closest thing I have to a best friend. Ok...so he's sexy and...yummy and I really need to stop these thoughts.> Just as she pulled herself out of her thoughts, her car door opened.

Spike had gotten out of the car after he had given her the flippant answer. He had watched her as she replied "oh". <Usually I can read her so well.> He tried to read her face __expression. <Is she upset? Confused?> He watched her for a moment, seeing her lost in her thoughts. He opened her door and stared at her for a moment until she looked up at him. "Ready, pet?"

"Sorry," she mumbled. "My mind drifted."

Spike took her hand and pulled her body out of the car and to him. As he pulled her to him, he heard her heartbeat speed up. Spike leaned towards her ear. "Remember it's an act," he whispered. He leaned back to look at her. "It's only pretend. Appearence sake." He took a step back from her. "Besides, you don't want to belong to me. Remember?"

Willow heard the words he told her. She could hear the hurt in his voice. Willow knew that he was hurt because of what she had told him. <If only he knew the truth.> "Let's go," she replied quietly.

He shut the car door behind her and snaked his arm around her waist. Spike pulled her to him as she gasped in surprise. "Let's go inside." He held her possesivly as they both walked into the store.

For an hour, Spike looked through racks of clothes for Willow. He wanted something that was still her, yet a little more daring. He grinned as she kept close to him. He would feel her lean in close to his body. Too close for it just to be an act. After he had chosen several outfits for her, he ushered her towards the dressing room. "Go on luv, I'll give you your privacy. But I want to see the outfits on you." Spike could smell the fear from her. He caressed the side of her face. "I'll be right here."

Willow nodded her head and did as she was told. She walked into the dressing toom and hung the clothes on the door. She let out a sigh and leaned against the wall as her fingers drifted over the necklace. She drifted out of the moment and started trying on the clothes.

As Willow came out and showed each outfit, he felt his pants become a little tighter. <Bloody hell! What am I doing? She's my best friend.> He glanced around the store, noticing they were the only customers when Willow came out.

"Well luv, what'd ya think of the clothes?"

She started to blush when she thought of some of the outfits. "They're great, but..."

Spike saw her frown and became concerned. "But what?"

She lowered her boice to a whisper. "I can't afford these."

He pulled her close to him. "As I told you before, luv. Anything you need or fancy...I can provide it for you."

"I thought we were pretending," she whispered.

"Right then. Listen I have to go pick up something on the other side of the store. Why don't you go and pick out some shoes?"

"Alone?" She squealed.

"You'll be fine, luv." He gave her a smirk. "Unless you'd like to go pick out lingere, luv?"

"No. Shoes. Shoes are good."

He watched as she walked away. When she started looking at shoes, he went to the other side of the store. He looked around for awhile before he found what he wanted. Black lace bras and panties and a bottle of perfume. As the demon cashier handed him the bag, he heard a shriek from the other side of the store. It was Willow.

He ran to her and his demon flared at the scene before him. Another vampire had his arm around her waist and wouldn't let go. He was trying to hold her to him. Outraged, Spike grabbed the vampire's arm and pulled it back forcefully. The sounds of the bones breaking in his arm echoed throughout the store. The other vampire fell to his knees. "DON'T TOUCH WHAT BELONGS TO ME!" Spike backhanded the vampire and watched as he hit the wall. He resorted back to his human features and turned around to face Willow. "Luv, are you..." Before he could ask his question, the redhead wrapped her arms around him and held onto him as if he was her last breath. Spike started to rub her back, calming her down. "Shh, luv. I'm here. He's not gonna touch you." He kissed the top of her head and then leaned down to her ear. "Did you find what you wanted, luv?"

Willow looked up into his eyes as he asked that last question. A look of confusion swept over her face.

"Shoes, luv? Did you find something?" He saw Willow nod her head yes. "You wanna show me?"

Shortly after, Spike paid for all the purchases. When they got in the car, a loud silence entered between them. Willow chose to speak first. "Umm..Spike, I thought we were only gonna be here a couple of days?"

"Yeah."

"The clothes...the clothes are more than a couple days worth." She wished he would just look at her.

Spike shrugged. "Didn't really think about it. Consider it a gift."

"About what happened in there Spike...what you did...what you said...Was that just an act--for appearences sake?"

Spike suddenly relaxed as his voice became softer. "No, Red. It wasn't an act. I wasn't pretending." <There you go, mate. Now she think you're a great poof.> The loud silence returned to the car as they continued down the road.

~Part: 12~

The uncomfortable silence between Spike and Willow continued as they went down the road. As she felt the car going faster, she started to become restless. Willow glanced at the speedometer, knowing he was well over the speed limit. She took in a deep breath and looked up at Spike. She knew he was deep in thought. His face was expressionless but his eyes were alive. She reached for his hand with hers, hoping to calm him.

Spike felt her as she reached for his hand. Quickly, he withdrew his hand from her grasp. It felt like fire to ice. He skidded off the deserted road, stopping on the side of the road. He turned off the car and turned to look at her. "Take off the necklace, pet."

"Spike, I..."

"Look, Red. It's just me and you. You don't have to pretend."

"But, Spike..."

"Take off the necklace Red," he growled.

Slowly and reluctantly, Willow unclasped the necklace from her neck. Willow held the necklace in her hand as she looked out the car window. She couldn't face him.

When Spike saw her remove the necklace, he started the car and pulled out onto the road. He knew that she was ignoring his gaze, which angered his demon. <How dare the chit ignores me! ME!> He focused himself back on the road. It only took a few more moments before he glanced back at her again. He was drawn to the witch.

When Spike glanced at her, he noticed she was staring at the item in her hand. He tried to keep his eyes on the road while he kept glancing at Willow. He watched as she grazed her finger over the locket. <Why is she still holding the locket? She said she didn't want to belong to me!> Spike could smell the tears that were threatening to fall from her face. He wanted to kiss her. To tell her everything would be better. <Don't think that way, mate. She doesn't want you, remember? Bugger it, I want her.> "Pet come here. Slide next to me," he told her in an almost pleading voice.

Willow looked over at his face. "Are you gonna growl at me again?" she whispered softly.

Spike frowned at her question. "I didn't mean to upset you Red," he told her quietly. He turned away, not wanting her to see all of the emotions he held for her. "We'll be at the hotel soon."

<Why does he turn away from me like that?> Willow slid over on the seat, placing herself next to Spike. She looked up to look into his eyes only to find him looking down at her. Quickly, she looked away as she blushed.

As Willow blushed, Spike wrapped his arm around her shoulders; holding her body next to his. <He knew this is where she belonged. With him.> He grazed his fingers along her shoulder and arm, feeling the warmth of her skin against his. "Sorry we had to cut the trip short, pet. There were other stores I wanted to take you to but with the demon and all..."

"Spike?"

"Yeah, luv."

Willow let out a small giggle. "You're rambling."

"Yeah, well." Spike realized they had just arrived at the hotel. He pulled into the parking lot. "We're here, luv." He undraped his arm from around her shoulders and turned off the engine. He was concerned when Willow still wouldn't face him. Spike used his fingers to tilt her chin up to look at him. He could hear her heart beating faster with that one innocent touch. "Pet, what are you thinking about?"

Willow was caught completely off guard from the question. "I..I..." She looked away from him. "I can't tell you."

He decided not to press the issue...for the moment. Spike saw her still holding the locket in her palm. He closed her fingers around it and then placed his hand over hers. He leaned in close to her to whisper in her ear. "It is yours, luv." He then placed a small gentle kiss to her neck.

~Part: 13~

When she felt his lips on her neck, her body tingled at the sensation. Willow closed her eyes for a moment as she held her breath. The kiss only lasted for a second.

Spike leaned back from the kiss and gazed into her eyes. <Please don't turn away from me.> He tried to read her expression but her face was a mix of emotions.

As he leaned away from her neck, Willow opened her eyes. When he gazed into her eyes, she found herself gazing into his. "Why did you do that?" she whispered.

Spike took her question as one of disgust and not as a mere question. <Think of something to tell her. You're beautiful? You're mine?> "I'm a vampire?"

"Huh?" Willow asked confused.

"Yeah, that's right. I'm a vampire." <You're over a century old and that was the best you could come up with.> "Necks are kinda my specialty."

"Oh," she said quietly.

Spike frowned at her for a moment. "Were you expecting a different answer?"

"Oh..um..no. No. Shouldn't we get checked in?"

He knew she always tried to change the subject when she was hiding something from him. "What aren't you telling me, Red? What are you keeping from me?"

Willow could feel her mouth starting to become dry. As her heart sped up, her mind wandered. <If I tell him I lied to him earlier, how will he react? Will he hate me? Why can't I just tell him?> She had been so wrapped up in her thoughts, she never noticed that Spike had gotten out of the car until her car door opened.

Spike opened the car door slowly, not wanting to startle her. "Are you ready, luv?" Upon seeing her confused expression, Spike offered his hand to her. As she took it, he felt his body relax against her touch. He pulled her out of the car and left a kiss on her palm. "Give me the necklace, Red."

"Why?"

"Don't ask questions. Just do it." He watched as she reluctantly opened her other hand. He picked up the necklace and slid it into her pocket. Spike gave her a small smile before he shut the car door.

"What about the bags?" she inquired.

"I'll have them sent up to the room."

"Just like that?"

He couldn't help but to smirk. "Just like that." Spike grabbed her hand and pulled her body close to his. "Shall we?"

Willow started biting on her bottom lip as she nodded her head slowly. She kept close to his side, not knowing what to expect. As she walked next to Spike, she noticed he held an aura about him. It gave off energy and confidence. She felt untouchable.

As they walked to the front door, she noticed the man standing outside. The man opened the door, nodding his head at Spike. "Good evening sir."

"Evening." Spike led Willow through the door and into the lobby of the hotel. As they walked through the lobby, he couldn't help but to smile at her.

Hey eyes were wide as if she was trying to memorize everything she saw. Willow glanced at the walls, staring at the artwork. Her eyes lingered on a Monet. "Is it real?"

Spike let his eyes fall to the painting. "That it is. Strikes your fancy, does it?"

"It's beautiful," she breathed.

He leaned in close to her ear. "Not as beautiful as you," he whispered. He took in delight as he watched her blush. A moment of silence passed between them before she turned to look at him.

"Spike this is..fancy."

"I already told you that I would take care of you if you would just let me."

"This is too much."

Spike slipped his arm around her waist and let it gently rest there. "Nothing is too much for you."

~Part: 14~

The second Willow felt his arm resting around her waist, she wanted to turn away. It would be so easy to twirl away from his embrace and pretend that nothing happened. Pretend. Pretending. She had done alot of that lately with him. Instead of turning away, she looked into his eyes; afraid of what she might see. When she gazed at him, he wasn't laughing. He had a sincere smile on his face. And his eyes danced of love. Love? She was sure she mistook the look in his eyes for something else. <It couldn't have been love.>

Spike watched her as she gazed at him. He nodded his head. "This way to the elevator, luv." They both walked in silence, lost to their own thoughts.

As they came upon the elevator, they stepped in. Willow took in her surroundings. She heard low classical music playing within the elevator. She also glanced around, noticing the rich mahogany color of the walls. Her thoughts were interrupted suddenly by the other occupant of the elevator.

"What floor, sir?"

Spike took a step towards the man. "Floor..." he whispered to him. He didn't want Willow to hear what floor they would be on. Spike wanted it to be a surprise just like he wanted the hotel room to be a surprise. He stepped back towards Willow as the elevator started going up. Spike stepped back to stand behind her, wanting to touch her. To hold her.

When Willow felt Spike behind her, a small smile came across her lips. Without realizing it, she leaned against his body. As she leaned against him, his arms went around her waist.

"Comfortable luv?" he smirked.

She then realized she was leaning against him. "Oh..I'm sorry..I.."

"Sshhh," he whispered. He pulled her closer to him. "I like you right where you are."

Willow let her hands drift over his. She then interlocked her fingers with his.

The elevator stopped at that point. "Your floor, sir."

Spike nodded his head at the man. "Thanks, mate." He moved out from behind Willow and grabbed her hand, pulling her out from the elevator. They both walked in silence until they got to the door of the room. Spike took the key out of his pocket and opened the door but did not push it open yet. "Ready, pet?"

<Now. Tell him now.> "Spike, before we go in that room I have to tell you something."

"Alright."

"I..I.." <Just say it. I lied. I want to belong to you.> "I'm really glad you brought me here."

Spike watched her eyes and knew that wasn't what she wanted to tell him, but didn't press it furthur. "Ready to see the room?"

Willow gave a weak smile. "Yeah."

Spike stood behind her and covered her eyes. "I want it to be a surprise." He pushed open the door and guided her through it. Spike then kicked the door shut as he guided her to the center of the room. As he stood there with her for a moment, he used all his strength to hold himself back from kissing her neck. Instead he dropped his hands from her face and took a step back from her, waiting for her reaction.

~Part: 15~

Willow's eyes became wide as she searched for something to say. She finally turned around and looked at Spike. "Can I look around?"

"Of course you can," he said with a smile. He watched as she drifted through the room.

Willow couldn't believe the hotel. Her breath caught. It was beautiful. The wood was a deep rich color while everything was exquisite. From the entrance where they were standing, Willow started to walk forward. She stepped down the few steps that were there and walked towards the king size bed. The bed was done in the same wood as the walls with intricate details along the headboard. She drifted her hands along the sheets. Silk. Everything in the room reminded her of something out of nineteenth century. She continued through the room and reached the bathroom. The one thing in the bathroom that caught he eye was the hot tub. It was big enough for four people. All of a sudden Willow pictured Spike naked in the hot tub.

Spike stepped in the bathroom to find Willow when the scent of her arousal reached him. "Bloody hell," he mumbled. <Who the hell is the witch thinking about? I'll tear him apart.> He waked up to Willow. "So?" he inquired.

Willow quickly turned around. "It's beautiful."

"Glad you approve." He ushered out to the main room.

"How long do we get to stay here?"

"It's ours for three nights. If we want it for longer, I just need to let them know."

"Do we ever have to leave?" she mumbled more to herself than to Spike.

He took a step forward when he heard her mumblings. "No, luv. We never have to leave. Not from here. Not from this moment."

Willow started to blush when she realized he had heard her. "Spike, I didn't mean it. I was just mumbling."

"I did mean it. Like I told you, pet. I can give you everything."

At that moment, there was a knock on the door and the moment between them was lost. Spike walked over to the door and opened it, staring at the man. "Yes?"

"Your luggage, sir."

"Thanks, mate." The man nodded his head and quickly left.

Spike brought the bags inside and placed them on the floor. He then turned back to where Willow was standing. Slowly, he stalked towards her. "Where were we, pet?" he purred.

"We..uh..we were looking at the hotel."

"Nah. I don't think so. We were past that."

"No..no we weren't. We were just gonna look..."

Spike suddenly frowned as he watched her ramble. He had to interrupt. "Do you think I'll hurt you, Willow?"

The use of her real name was not lost upon her. She quickly shook her head. "No. If anything you would protect me."

"If it came to it, would you let me? Protect you, that is."

Willow slowly shook her head yes slowly.

Spike leaned down to her neck and gave her a soft tender kiss. He felt her relax and melt in his arms for a moment but he could still feel a resistance. Spike looked up in her eyes. "Why won't you let me love you?"

~Part: 16~

Willow's eyes widened as she heard his question. She repeated the question in her mind once more. <'Why won't you let me love you?'>

Spike saw her stunned expression but nothing was coming out of her mouth. To him, her silence spoke volumes. "Right then, well I'm going out. Be back in a bit."

"Spike..."

"Feel free to order room service. You need to eat. And I..I need..I can't be here right now."

"Spike..."

"No!" he growled at her. He left the room and slammed the door behind him, never letting her finish the statement.

Willow stared at the door in shock. <What just happened?> She walked over to the bed and sat down slowly. She then reached in her pocket and took out the locket. Running her fingers over the locket, she let her mind wander. <What have I done? Where would he have gone?> She fought back the tears and slipped the locket back into her pocket. Taking a deep breath, she got up from the bed and headed toward the phone to call for dinner.

A couple hours later, Willow had finished her dinner; thinking about Spike. She layed in bed in a short t-shirt and a pair of boxer shorts. As she slowly drifted to sleep, she could feel the tears threatening to fall.

Spike had no idea what he was doing, just roaming the streets.

Before he knew it, he was back at the hotel. He opened the door to their room and saw her on the bed. He could smell the scent of tears in the room. Spike shrugged out of his boots, shirt and duster while leaving his jeans on. Quickly, he made his way to the bed and climbed in. He just wanted to be near her.

Spike gazed at the sleeping redhead beside him, just wanting to touch her. He brushed a lock of hair away from her face as an innocent gesture. "Why won't you love me?" he said in a low voice. He didn't want to wake her. "Why don't you want to belong to me? The demon would protect you. The man in me would go to the ends of the world for you." He closed his eyes for a moment and when he opened them again, he saw the one thing he wasn't expecting. Her green eyes staring back at him. "Pet, you were supposed to be asleep."

"I was but then I heard the door open and..."

"And you let me ramble about you."

Willow took a deep breath. "I'm sorry," she whispered.

Spike moved his body down the sheet until they were at eye level. He leaned on his side and spoke gently to her. "What do you mean? What are you sorry for, luv?"

"I-I made you mad and then you left and I didn't want you to leave, but you left and I was worried. I'm so sorry. I really didn't mean to make you mad."

"Sshh, luv. You didn't make me mad."

Willow could feel the tears falling down her face. "I just disappointed you. But you don't understand. I have to tell you..."

Spike interrupted her. "Luv, I left because I needed to think." 

"But I have to tell you..."

"Red." He knew whatever she had to tell him, he was sure he wasn't gonna like it. "You should really get some sleep, luv." He reached up and wiped the tears away from her face. "I thought that maybe tomorrow you might want to roam about during the day. I saw a bookstore around the corner from the hotel. It's close by. Thought you might enjoy it."

Willow gave him a slight smile. "Thanks."

"Then tomorrow night we have reservations."

"Reservations?"

"For dinner, luv. Thought you could wear the dress we bought."

Willow's eyes widened. "The silk one?"

Spike looked at her confused. "Was there another dress I wasn't aware of?"

"Um..no. It's just fancy."

"And you'll look beautiful in it. Now try and get some sleep."

After a few minutes, Willow opened her eyes. "Spike?"

"Yeah pet," he replied with his eyes closed.

"Could you hold me while I sleep?"

Spike opened his eyes slowly as an unneeded breath caught in his throat. "I can do that," he whispered. He wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her body to his. He grinned as he felt her snuggle into his body and wrapped her arms around him. Moments later, she started to fall asleep.

~Part: 17~

Willow woke up hours later, opening her eyes slowly. As she opened her eyes, she smiled at the sight before her. Spike. He was still holding her just as she requested the night before. She could feel his strong arms around her body, holding her close. She glanced down noticing her legs intertwined with his. As she made a feeble attempt to pull away from him, he only tightened his grip around her. "Spike, I think it's afternoon."

"Mmm," he mumbled with his eyes closed.

"I was gonna wake up and go to that bookstore you mentioned last night." She tried to pull away but was unsuccessful. "Spike, that would mean that you have to let me go."

<Never.> He opened his eyes and looked at her. "Stay?"

She saw the pleading in his eyes. "Only for a few more minutes."

Spike grinned and kept her close, only if for a few more moments. He knew what he wanted. He wanted to kiss her. To claim her. To ravish her. But she wasn't his. That's what he didn't understand. She didn't want to be his but at the same time she wanted him to hold her. "You should get going, luv."

"Yeah," she responded softly.

Spike gave her a small smile. "Before yo know it, it'll be time for our dinner reservations. Be ready by seven."

Willow gave him a quick smile in return while she climbed out of the bed. She picked up a set of clothes and walked into the bathroom locking the door behind her.

She emerged from the bathroom, twenty minutes later. The first thing she saw was Spike sitting at the end of the bed. "Spike, are you alright? It's still daylight outside." As she walked over to him, he stood up facing her. She noticed how he wore an expression of concern.

She was so close to him, he could feel the heat from her body. "Be careful, pet. I can't protect you. Not while the bloody sun is out."

"Spike, it's daylight. No vampires."

"Just promise me you'll be aware of your surroundings. If anything happened to you..."

"I promise. You'll see me tonight."

Spike noticed how their eyes never left each other throughout the conversation. He moved his face closer, waiting for her to back away but it never happened. Spike leaned in closer, brushing his lips against hers. As she responded to the kiss, he wrapped his arms around her and brought her closer to his body. He deepened the kiss when he felt Willow's hands slide through his hair.

After a few moments, Willow pulled away. "I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to...and then...and it...I should go." She rushed over to the door. Willow looked at him one more time before leaving. "I am sorry," she said quickly and then left.

Spike started at the door for a moment after she left. "I'm not sorry about it, luv." He walked over to the bed in search for a cigarette.

As Willow walked to the bookstore, her mind was nonstop. Before she knew it, she had arrived at her destination. Willow drifted through the store, only thinking about the kiss. After about an hour she left and started to head back to the hotel.

Between the bookstore and the hotel, she came across another shop. As she glanced in the window, she started to grin. Lingerie. Suddenly an idea came to mind. It included her, lingerie and Spike.

~Part: 18~

Willow walked through their hotel room door about two hours later. She had slipped the lingerie bag into another one of her bags, not wanting Spike to see it yet. As she closed the door behind her, she glanced around not seeing Spike. "Spike?" she called out. "Are you here?" She heard nothing but silence. As she started to walk forward through the hotel room, she noticed her dress was drifted across the bed. Willow walked over to it and noticed a box beside it with a note attached.

She picked up the note and read the words silently to herself. A smile came to her face as she placed the note down and lifted the lid off of the box. As she peered into the box, she could feel a blush heating her skin. She pulled out a silk bra and pantie set. The silk against her skin gave her shivers. She then pulled out a bottle of perfume. She placed the items on the bed next to the dress as she glanced at the clock. 6:30 pm. "I have thirty minutes," she told herself. She stripped out of her clothes and grabbed the lingerie she had bought earlier. <I'll have to hide this in the bathroom. It's the only place he won't find it.>

Twenty-five minutes later she had showered, dressed, applied a bit of makeup and was finishing her hair. Willow loved the dress that Spike had bought for her. The dress was silk and sleeveless. It stopped right at her ankles with a long slit up one of her thighs. It clung to her body. She felt sexy and desirable in it. Just as she clipped her hair on top of her head, she heard it.

"Quite the vision, aren't you?"

Willow turned around quickly. "Spike!" She then took a double take on his appearance. "Wow! You look...incredible." He was wearing a suit or his version of a suit. She noticed his jacket most of all. It was longer than the traditional suit jacket with tails in the back. It looked like something out of the 19th century. Realizing that it was Spike, she might not be far off with the 19th century thought.

He walked slowly to her. "Turn around, luv."

"What?"

Spike twirled his finger in a circle. "Turn around." As she did what she was told, he drifted in behind her. Spike took a necklace out of his pocket and fastened it around her neck. On a thin silver chain was a beautiful pearl.

"Spike, it's beautiful."

"Just an accessory, luv. True beauty lies within the person wearing it." He saw Willow turn around and face him. "Shall we go mi'lady?"

Willow started to grin. "Yes we shall, sir." And together they left for dinner.

The restaurant wasn't far from the hotel. As they walked through the door, he felt her body tense. Spike placed his arm around her waist and held her close to his body. "Are you alright?"

"I'm fine."

"Luv what's wrong?" he whispered. "You're tense. Do you want to go somewhere different?"

Willow turned her head slightly. "That's not it. The restaurant looks lovely."

"Then what is it?"

"I'm nervous because...because of you." She quickly looked away from his gaze. "The necklace and the dress and the gift and now dinner. It's like..."

"A date?"

"Yeah," she said softly.

And all hope he had of Willow becoming his crashed at that moment. "Maybe we should go, luv. You don't want to be here, not with me."

Willow felt him about to pull away and knew she had to do something quick. She turned around quickly to face him as he started to let go. She let her fingers graze the side of his face, halting his movements. Spike put his arms back around her waist, holding her close. Willow started to bite her bottom lip. "When I said I was nervous, I didn't mean of you. I'm nervous of me and you. A good kind of nervous with fluttering and tingles and I can't believe I just said that outloud."

Spike leaned down to whisper in her ear. "I am too luv," he admitted shyly. "Nervous about me and you." He leaned his lips to her neck and gave her a single tender kiss. He returned back to her ear, to whisper something else. "You're not the only one that feels the fluttering and tingles." And for a brief moment their eyes met.

"Your table is ready, sir." That one statement broke the moment.

The restaurant reminded Willow of something she had seen in a movie once. The tables were secluded and private. There was candlelight everywhere and at the far end of the restaurant, a few couples were even dancing.

All through dinner, they both stole looks at the other one. Trying not to get noticed. Trying not to get caught.

Spike couldn't stand it anymore. He had to hold her. "Since we're finished with dinner, would you like to dance?"

"I don't dance well."

Spike stood up and offered his hand. "You don't have to dance well. You just have to dance with me."

She stood slowly, taking his hand; letting him usher her to the floor.

As he pulled her onto the floor, he pulled her close to his body. Spike moved with her slowly, letting his fingers drift along her back.

"This is nice," she whispered.

"Yeah, luv. It is. Not really your style, though, is it?"

Willow was confused. "How do you mean?"

"How about this. We get the hell out of here and go back to the hotel. We can change into clothes that are actually comfortable for us. Even though you're sexy as hell in that dress, you're even more sexy in those boxer shorts and shirt that you insist on wearing. Where you can be you." He saw her start to open her mouth to say something but he put a finger up to her lips to silence her. "We can relax, order dessert from room service and just talk." When he saw her grin, he knew her answer. "I'll take that as a yes." He pulled her out of the restaurant before she could even respond.

Twenty minutes later, they both entered their hotel room. "I did have a nice time tonight, Spike."

"I'm glad, pet. I did too. While you change in the bathroom, I'll change out here and then we can order dessert."

Willow made her way into the bathroom, shutting the door behind her. She looked at herself in the mirror. <It's now or never.>

Spike dropped his suit to the floor and pulled on a pair of jeans. He sat on the bed, leaning against the pillows as he watched tv.

Willow had just slid the black silk teddy over her body. The item fell mid-thigh and clung to her. "Hey Spike?" she said through the door.

He turned down the volume on the tv so he could hear her better. "Yeah, Red."

"Do you remember when we were at Angel's and I found that picture of you in the book?"

"Yeah pet," he said sadly. "I remember. What of it?"

"Remember I told you I didn't want to belong to you?"

"How could I forget?" he mumbled. "Yeah, luv. I remember." Spike heard nothing but silence. "Red, are you alright?"

Willow took a deep breath and opened the bathroom door. She stepped into the doorway but didn't say a word.

Spike heard the door click open but wasn't sure why she didn't join him on the bed or at least come out of the doorway. He clicked the tv off. "So luv, what did you want to ord..." The words were lost on his lips as he turned to where Willow stood and saw the sight. After a moment his eyes met hers.

"I want to stop pretending, Spike."

~Part: 19~

Spike knew he had a look of shock on his face. "Pretending?" he asked cautiously.

Willow started to bite on her lower lip. "I was pretending." Spike watched her as she made his way to him. Willow climbed onto the bed and straddled his hips. She leaned down and gently kissed his neck, feeling him shiver in anticipation. "I was pretending Spike," she said softly. She looked into his eyes but was unsure of what they held.

Spike felt like he was frozen. He wasn't sure if this was real. His eyes only followed her.

All of a sudden, fear and panic went through Willow's body. "My goddess, you don't want..."

"You? You couldn't be more bloody wrong."

"But you're just staring at me. Not saying anything. Not moving."

"Bit in shock, luv. Bit confused, also. You were pretty adamant about not wanting me."

"Do you want..."

Spike never let her finish her question. He brought his hands up to her face to cup it as he pressed his lips to hers. When he felt her relax against him, he leaned back on the bed; still kissing her. As he deepened the kiss, he let his hands slowly drift up her thighs. His hands slid up the teddy she was wearing and Spike felt his jeans become tighter. Realizing she wasn't wearing anything underneath, he cupped her ass and grinded himself into her. "Can you tell now luv?" he whispered seductively.

Willow looked into his eyes and saw lust and desire for her. "I want to be yours, Spike." She kissed the right side of his neck. "I want to belong to you." She then kissed the left side of his neck. "I want you to claim me," she whispered.

"Gods below yes," he responded huskily.

Willow gave him a grin as she started placing small kisses along his collarbone and over his chest. She continued trailing kisses downwards as she unbuttoned his jeans. She slid them off slowly, teasing him. Willow dropped them to the floor and started up his body. As she reached his cock, she let her tongue glide over the tip. When she heard him moan, she slid her hot mouth over his cock and relaxed her throat. Willow started to move her mouth up and down his shaft. She could feel his fingers through her hair as he purred.

Spike couldn't believe how incredible she felt. He also knew that if she kept doing that, he wouldn't last. He wanted to be inside her when he came. His purr had turned into a growl when he couldn't stand it any longer. He gently pulled her up to his body and flipped them, so she was underneath his body. "Beautiful," he whispered. As he watched Willow start to blush, he slowly lifted the teddy over her head and let if fall to the floor. "Time for me to play," he said softly. Spike brought his mouth down to her breast and let his tongue drift across her nipple. As he felt it harden, he took it in his mouth and began to gently suck for a moment. When he heard her gasp, he moved down her body; delivering fluttering kisses along her stomach. As he reached her legs, he gently spread them apart; not that he had to try because she was already willing. As he let his tongue drift over her slit, her gasps became louder. He began to suck gently, letting her scent fill him. He continued until he heard her moan his name. He had to be inside her. Spike lifted his head climbing up the rest of her body and placed a kiss on her lips.

"Spike," she pleaded. "Please."

"Tell me what you want, luv. I'll give you anything."

She looked into his eyes. Into the man he was and the demon that he is. "Make love to me," she whispered.

And in that one moment, Spike swore his undead heart beat. He entered her slowly, carefully. Before he started moving against her, he let her adjust to his size. As she started to whimper, he caught his mouth with hers. Kissing away the pain, promising her pleasure. As he felt her relax, Spike slowly moved against her. Slowly pulling out of her before sliding back in.

As Willow felt him sliding in her, she felt the pain. But she also felt the pleasure. As he continued his slow motions, she could feel her body tingling with desire for Spike. She knew that this was where she belonged. And that he belonged with her. Willow lifted her legs slightly, allowing him to enter her even more deeply.

Spike felt her lift her legs and entered her even more deeply. As he entered her completely, he fought the demon that wanted to surface. Spike could hear her moaning his name over and over like a chant. He started to quicken the pace.

Willow had started to pant, trying to catch her breath. "More, Spike. More. I need you."

Spike gave her what she requested. His pace became frantic. He needed her. As he pushed his body into her, he could feel her meet his thrusts. Looking into her eyes, he morphed. He let his demon take over, which only made the thrusts more about need. He felt himself enter her faster and harder than before. As he felt her start to tremble around him, he leaned down to her neck.

Willow leaned her neck to the side. "Please, Spike. Do it."

The demon needed no further invitation. He bit into her neck, drinking as he felt her blood reach his tongue. As he heard her scream out his name, he bit down harder; claiming his mate. When he lifted his head, he came inside Willow; screaming out her name as they both rode out their orgasms.

Spike leaned on his side, still inside Willow. He let his human features come forward as they both panted for breath. They stared into each others eyes for a moment, forgetting everything around them. Spike leaned down and gave her a tender kiss as he pulled out of her. He then pulled her to his body while he nuzzled her neck. "Mine," he whispered before letting sleep claim them both.

~Part: 20~

As Willow woke the next afternoon, her fingers went to her neck; tracing over Spike's claiming bite. She let a smile spread across her face, replaying the activities over in her head. Willow turned her head and glanced over at him, not sure if he was asleep or not. <Kinda hard to tell with the whole lack of breathing thing.> Quietly, she climbed out of bed and headed towards the hot tub. Slipping in the water, she let the heat soothe her sore muscles.

About thirty minutes later, Spike woke to find his mate absent. Glancing around the room, he could hear her heartbeat coming from the bathroom. Smirking to himself, he climbed out of the bed and walked to the doorway. He stood there for a moment, taking in her appearance. The heat from the water, bring a rosy color to her face. Her hair falling around her face, framing it perfectly. And her eyes shut, never noticing the vampire that was watching her. Spike quietly made his way to her and slipped in the hot tub without even disturbing her. After a few moments, he decided to speak up. "Ya know, leaving a bloke in the bed by himself might make him think he did something wrong."

Willow's eyes flew open. "Spike! You're supposed to be asleep."

"Asleep? You're naked in a hot tub and I should be asleep? What's wrong with that picture?"

"I just didn't expect...I didn't know if last night...."

"If last night, what?"

"If it was a one time thing or not?"

"Do you want it to be a one time thing?" <Say no, pet. Say no.>

"NO! Last night was great. It was everything. It's like you bring out this whole other side to me. You're good for me."

"I can be good to you luv," he told her with desire running in his eyes. He moved closer to her in the hot tub. Spike interlocked his fingers with hers and held her hands to the side of the hot tub, locking her arms against the walls. "If you let me?"

As Spike leaned into her neck and gently kissed his bite, desire and need went through her body. "Goddess yes," she breathed.

As Spike pressed his lips to hers, he felt her legs spread apart. He positioned himself between her legs and slowly entered her. He shivered from the warmth of her body and the warmth of the water that was surrounding him. Holding her arms to the hot tub, he started to slowly move within her. Spike trailed kisses down to her neck as she started to whimper.

"Spike please," she pleaded.

"Please..what.." With each thrust, he went deeper inside; scraping her back against the wall of the tub.

"Need you," she whimpered.

He started thrusting faster into her. He could feel her lips at his neck, nipping with her blunt teeth. "Cor luv," he groaned.

"Spike," she breathed. "Can't hold back anymore," she whispered.

"Don't hold...back...ever," he managed to say between thrusts.

As Willow heard his words, she let herself go. Screaming out his name, she felt her body start to tremble.

As Spike felt her start to tighten around him, he sped up his thrusts; sending them both over the edge. He growled her name as he bit into her breast. He felt her head roll back as she moved her chest closer to his body. As they rode out the orgasm, Spike let go of her hands and held her body to his.

While still inside her, he moved them to a chair slope that was built into the tub. Still holding her to him, he sat down and licked a stray drop of blood that was trailing down her breast.

Willow smiled and looked at Spike. An idea came to her. She leaned forward. "Spike," she breathed.

"Yeah, luv."

"Let me please you."

"Pet, you do please me. What we just did, very pleasing."

She rocked back and forth on his lap. "Let me please you like you please me."

Spike looked at her and raised his eyebrow. "I'm sure as hell not gonna tell you no."

Willow leaned forward and kissed his neck while gently rocking back and forth against him at a torturous pace. As she heard him growl, she couldn't help but to grin. Willow drifted her fingers along his chest while slowly lifting her body up, only to slide back down slowly.

"Willow," he pleaded.

Willow could feel him trying to move against her. "No. Let me please you." Willow could feel her eyes flutter at the sensations he gave her body. She leaned forward, sinking down on him further. "Tell me what you want," she whispered. "What you need."

"Ride me hard luv," he pleaded. "Ride me fast."

Willow gripped his shoulders and lifted herself up. As she made eye contact with his, she slammed down on him; hearing him growl as a gasp escaped her lips. As he caught her lips in a bruising kiss, she continued to ride him. Each movement a little harder. It was an act of claiming and possession. Before she knew it, Willow felt his hands on her hips. She looked at him and nodded her head slightly. She watched as his demon came forward.

Spike felt his demon come forward and dug his fingers into her hips. He brought her hips up and down his cock, growling as he became closer. He could hear Willow moaning his name. Begging for him to never stop. Hearing his name from her lips and her warmth was beginning to be too much.

Willow felt as if he was possessing her. Her body. "Spike..don't stop..harder."

That was all his demon needed. He let his demon have full control. He quickly moved inside her, trying to stretch her even further. Driving his cock into her harder than before. The rougher he became with her, the more she moved with him in unison. As he felt her taking control again, riding him with every ounce of strength in her, he drifted his fingers to her back. When he dug his fingernails along her back, he felt her start to shake violently around him. Her orgasm took him over the edge. Spike sunk his fangs into her neck, reclaiming his mate. Making the bite even deeper than before. As he drank deeply, his human visage came back forward. He withdrew from her neck and licked the stray drops of blood that started to surface. Suddenly fear ran through him. Fear that he had been too rough. Fear that now she would want nothing to do with him. Fear that he possibly pushed her away. "Red, I'm..."

Willow looked up at his face and brought her lips to his. When she pulled away from the kiss, she rested her head on his chest. "Love you Spike," she whispered before falling asleep.

Spike was in complete shock. He opened his mouth but nothing came out until he could hear that she was asleep. "Love you too Willow," he whispered. He lifted her off his body and picked her up, carrying her to the bed.

~Part: 21~

As Willow woke up the following afternoon, she found Spike's eyes staring at her. Not at her eyes, but her neck. Her hand quickly went to her neck, feeling the bite mark. "Spike, what is it?"

Spike's face lost some of the emotion. "Do you know what that bite means, luv?"

"It means I belong to you."

"You make it sound so simple." His eyes flickered golden. "Do..you..know..what..it..means?"

"I..I guess not. I thought.."

"Whatever you thought, you have no idea."

Spike got up from the bed and started to pace in front of the bed. Willow noticed that he was only in his jeans. "You belong to me. Mind. Body. Soul. Blood." He stopped pacing and looked at her. "I claimed you. You're mine. I claimed you as my mate."

Willow took a deep breath. "Your mate?"

"You belong to me."

"Hey, I don't bel..."

"You do to me." Spike sat down at the end of the bed. "Vampires don't go around claiming humans. Hell, I've never claimed anyone. The only people I've ever bitten, they're not around anymore to talk about it."

"Um..why..why did you claim me?"

"Why? WHY? You wanna know why I bloody claimed you? The bed and the hot tub weren't good enough examples?"

"It could've been just sex."

Spike got up from the bed and sat down next to her. "Well, it wasn't just sex. That's not how I do things, luv. It's not who I am. When I love, I love with everything."

"But you don't. I said it and you said nothing. You were just quiet."

"What are you talking about?"

"You. I'm talking about you! I told you I loved you and nothing."

They both sat in silence for a moment before Spike spoke. "I do love you, pet. More than I thought possible. It's why I gave you that locket. I love you a little more with each passing day. When you said you didn't want me, when we were in LA, and when you didn't want to belong to me; it killed a part of me. I wanted nothing more than to hold you. To kiss you. Just to be near you. I claimed you for a reason."

"What is the reason?" she asked quietly.

"Because you're it. I know that you're the one. You're the light in my dark world. The one thing that I know I can't get enough of. It's you. It's always been you." Spike took a deep breath. "And you're not saying anything."

"Um..well..it's alot to take in."

"Yeah."

Willow was silent for another moment before she spoke. "What happens now?"

"You tell me you love me always."

Willow repeated her question. "What happens now?"

Spikes dreams and hopes of his new love disappeared when she didn't express her love. He felt as if he had been smacked. "Whatever you want, luv." He felt the tears threatening to fall down his face, but fought them back.

"I think we should head back to Sunnydale."

"Sunnyhell, it is."

"Everything is gonna be different."

Spike frowned. "Yeah, I guess it is." He felt as if his heart had just been ripped out. He glanced to the window, wondering if he should greet daylight when they get back to Sunnydale.

~Part: 22~

As they drove back to Sunnydale in silence, Spike had to know one thing. He glanced at her neck and then at her face. "Why are you wearing it, luv?" When he saw her confused look, he clarified his question. "The necklace, pet. The locket that I gave you."

Willow looked into his eyes. "Do you not want me to wear it?" she asked quietly.

"Do whatever you want luv," he replied flippantly. "As I see it, does it really matter?" Spike knew how hurtful he was being but he wanted to know if she would really accept him. Would she accept him if her friends tried to keep them apart? The Watcher? The Slayer?

As Willow tried to hold back the tears, she returned her attentions back to the window. She continued to stare out the window until the car stopped in front of the Magic Box.

"Luv..."

"I should let them know I'm back. Thanks for the ride and everything." Without another moment, Willow stepped out of the car; shutting the door behind her.

Willow opened the door to the Magic Box, wanting Spike to be with her now. She felt such a connection with him, a bond. "Wills!" she heard Buffy scream. "Are you alright?"

"I'm fine Buffy. We just took a few days off."

"Angel called us," Giles told her. "We were worried for your safety."

"But see I'm fine."

"And you," Buffy stated as Willow stepped forward confused. "I'm gonna dust your undead ass!"

Willow quickly turned around and saw Spike behind her. He looked into her eyes and felt the love she had for him. As Willow turned back around, she saw Buffy headed towards them with a stake in hand. Willow took a step back, making sure she was standing directly in front of Spike.

"Wills, move. I'm gonna fix the undead problem in the room."

"I can't let you do that, Buffy."

"WHAT?!"

Willow let her hands drift to her sides and then back until her fingers found his. She interlocked her fingers with his; making sure he understood she would stand up for him. "Look Buffy, I'm leaving to go home. It's late. I just stopped by to check in."

"You go home Wills. I'll take care of Spike."

"Actually there will be no staking in my house."

"What does that have to do with him?"

"That's where he's staying. Actually he's moving in." Willow then quickly turned around to face Spike. "You don't have to..I mean..Well I just thought.."

Spike leaned down to her ear. "I'd love to," he whispered. "Mine."

Willow felt his arms circle her waist while their fingers were still interlocked.

"Hey evil dead. Unless you want to become dust, you'll remove you hands from her."

"Sod off, Slayer."

Willow turned her head towards Spike and started to smirk. He lowered his head so she could whisper in his ear. "Actually," she started to whisper. "You can put your hands anywhere on me."

"I'll hold you to that."

"Let's get out of here, Spike."

Getting lost in her eyes, he said the only thing that came to mind. "Let's go home, luv."

Willow and Spike left the store, leaving a shocked slayer gaping like a goldfish.

~Part: 23~

As Spike and Willow entered her house, she noticed how quiet he was being. When she entered the house, she turned around and watched him for a moment. He seemed withdrawn and reserved into himself.

Spike closed the front door and turned around seeing Willow's concerned look. "Luv, are you alright?"

"That was gonna be my question to you."

"To me?"

"Spike, you don't have to be here; with me."

Spike walked up to her and placed his fingers on her lips. He looked at her seriously as he brought his fingers away. "What makes you think I don't want to be here with you?"

Willow looked away and down at the floor. "You were just quiet. You're NEVER quiet and..."

"I thought you wouldn't want me," he said shyly.

Willow looked up into his eyes. "Why would you think that?"

"Your friends," he started.

"Are not me," she finished.

"I just thought..."

"You consume me," she interrupted. "My mind, my thoughts, everything." Willow reached forward and interlocked her fingers with his. "I chose to wear the necklace after I knew about the bite. After I knew about the claiming." Willow noticed that he wasn't saying anything. "You don't have to be here, Spike."

Spike shrugged out of his duster and threw it on the couch. He turned back to Willow. "Not leavin." He raised his hands up and cupped her face. "I've wanted you for so long. To touch you. To be with you. To love you." Spike pressed his lips to hers, letting his hands drop and circle around her waist. As he pulled her closer to him, he deepened the kiss. Feeling her hands slide through his hair, he pulled back and nipped at her neck.

As he pulled away from her, she saw his smirk. She couldn't help but to smile at him. "You can move all your stuff from the crypt to the extra room."

Spike pursed his lips together for a moment before he spoke. "Will I be sleeping in there too?"

"Well..I uh..I thought you'd sleep in my room..with me."

The smirk returned to his face. "You'll need a bigger bed, luv." He then started pulling her towards the door. "We should go get something to eat."

"Huh?!"

"I don't plan on letting you out of the bed or this house for awhile. You'll need the energy."

"Love you."

Spike leaned down to her ear and kissed her gently. "Love you too, pet."

~Part: 24~

While they were out, Spike stopped by the crypt and picked up what he wanted to keep. He also picked up some blood and Willow picked up a pizza.

They came back home and put everything on the counter as Spike noticed the answering machine blinking. "Luv, you have new messages."

"Not me, we."

"Alright," he said with a smile. "We have new messages.

"Just hit the play button." As Willow started to walk over to Spike, she heard Buffy's voice on the machine.

"Willow, are you there? Pick up. This is Spike you're talking about. You need to think about this. He'll just use you and move on to someone else."

Willow saw Spike tense and put her arms around him. "I'd never do that to you, luv."

"I know." She felt his arms circle around her body as reassurance.

"If you stay with him Willow, I don't know if we can remain friends."

As they heard the message end, Spike placed a kiss on her forehead.

"I won't give you up, Spike."

"Good. Let's just listen to the next message."

"Willow, it's Giles. I hope you understand the consequences of your choice. And it is your choice. Your friends will either accept the two of you or they won't. I believe you are mature enough to make your own decision. I hope to see BOTH of you soon."

Spike looked down at her. "Was the Watcher giving us approval?" Spike asked.

"More like consent, I think."

"Hey Wills, it's Xan. You know I don't like deadboy jr. At all. But if he makes you happy, I'll deal. I'll support you in this decision. Both of you. See ya later."

"I didn't think he'd support us, Red."

"I knew he would," she told him with a smile.

"Willow..William."

"Bloody hell, Peaches called us."

"I just got off the phone with Buffy. I was told to call Spike and use right of Sire to order him away from you."

Willow watched as his eyes flickered golden.

"I'm not going to do that to you, William. Take care of her. Don't hurt her. And Willow, I know he gave you the locket. Welcome into our family."

They both stared at the machine as it clicked off. "That was..unexpected."

"That it was. Let's sit down, luv."

After they were both seated, Willow had to ask something. "Why didn't you ever tell me about the locket, when you first gave it to me?"

"I couldn't. I didn't want to lose you. Even as a friend." Spike put his arm around her waist and pulled her to him as he leaned back into the couch. "I'll love you forever," he confessed.

"Forever? How forever?"

He could feel the fear from her. "Eternity."

"I don't want to be a vampire."

"I won't let you go and I won't watch you die."

"What if you tire of me?"

"Tire of you? Not possible. It it wasn't for that chip I had, you would've already been turned."

"But I don't want..."

"You're mine. My mate. You belong with me."

"You won't do it soon, right?"

Spike grinned at her acceptance. "You still have a couple years, luv."

"What's it like? Being a vampire."

"Don't know how to explain it, pet. The bond between sire and childe will affect it. Out bond will be so strong. I will always love you. Always want you. Always need you."

Willow let her fingers dance across his chest. "The whole wanting thing is already there."

"Yeah?"

"Mm-hmm. In fact I want you right now."

"Let's see what I can do about that," he told her as he pulled Willow onto his lap to straddle him.

Willow nipped at his neck with her teeth. He reached down and nuzzled her neck. "Spike?"

"Hmmm."

"We should move out soon."

"Why?"

"Find a place with a hot tub."

Spike groaned as he claimed her lips in a passionate kiss, pressing his body to hers.

THE END

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