Counting The Cost

Author: Jessie

Rating: PG 13 ( small angst alert - next part I will try to make lighter - promise!)

Feedback: I live for it! -

Email: myrealitygirl@yahoo.com

Note: sequel to `The Price' - Back by popular demand. LOL

Authors note: I hope you like this, you really made me delve deep to come up with this sequel - hope it's okay (and I hope you like the other pairing I've included)

Beta: Krystle

Dedication: For Sophie <LOOK ANGEL!! ;)

Timeline - The morning after `The Price' ended!!!

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
 

~Part: 1~

"Think I killed it pet?"

"Nah - think you may have put it on the critical list though"

"Sorry - didn't mean to attack like that - think it can be saved?"

Willow hopped out of the bed and picked up the topic of conversation - the fuzzy pink sweater.

"Maybe Mrs Summers can mend it - don't wanna throw it away now do I" she giggled, as she was pulled back into the bed.

Spike leaned over the laughing redhead and smirked "What ya gonna tell Joyce happened?"

"I'll tell her the truth of course"

Spike's eyes went wide "The truth?"

"Yup - tell her I got attacked by a very cute, sexy vampire and even though Mr Fuzzy tried to save my virtue from him - it was no match for his manly ways"

"Oh you will, will you! - I'd just love to see Joyce's face when you say that!" he laughed tickling her mercilessly.

"Hey no fair!" Willow screamed, trying to wriggle away from her lover.

Finally managing to slip a hand up to Spike's ribs, lightly tickling Spike's ribs.

"Arrgghh you minx - stop - please Red no more - I give up!" he laughed, rolling off her.

Lying on his back, he glanced over at Willow lying next to him.

"What you thinking Pet?" he asked surprised at how lost in thought she suddenly had become.

"Oh nothing important" she whispered her eyes shining bright.

"Pet? You okay" frowning he rolled onto his side, propping himself up on his hand, brushing her hair from her face.

"Silly really - I think, I think that was the first time anyone has tickled me" she told him softly, looking up into his incredibly blue eyes.

A slight frown passed over his features then realisation dawned.

"Awww pet. Little one I'll tickle you all the time if you want - don't think about those people anymore okay? Got me now." he told her softly.

"I know -it just hurts you know. Something so simple like being tickled or going to the zoo, or looking forward to photograph day at school. I know they don't love me and I even know why, it's just hard to understand how they could help so many people, children, but their daughter was ignored - dismissed as a burden"

 She laid her hand gently against his cheek "I'm lucky to have you ya know - last night when you were sleeping I could hardly believe you were real, I thought I'm going to wake up in a moment in that big empty house - and be alone. Then do you know what you did?"

Spike shook his head slowly, mesmerized by the sadness in her eyes.

"You rolled over and reached out your hand towards me, but I was too far over and you couldn`t reach- you frowned and opened your eyes. When you saw me you pulled me in to your arms and said." her voice hitched on a sob.

"What I say luv?" he asked concerned.

"You said you missed me" Willow told him, tears running down her cheeks.

"I love you Willow - don't ever wanna sleep without you in my arms - When you were in hospital, and didn't want to see me - I thought I'd go nuts without seeing you, hearing your laugh, smelling your perfume. Pet what do you mean that your parents helped other children, I don't understand?" Spike whispered, holding her tight against him.

"Oh - well marvel at the irony - their child psychologists - they help kids who have been abused by their parents" she laughed bitterly.

Spike looked at her sad face and wished her parents could see what they had done to their daughter.

A young woman who in reality should be a mean, uncaring person - someone like Faith, unloved and unwanted. However, by some miracle she had become a sweet caring girl, who saw good in everyone - who didn't want anyone to feel unwanted -, be they human or demon.

When she had revealed her fuzzy jumper the night before, Spike had almost thrown her over his shoulder and taken her back to the apartment.

As it was, he had endured three hours of torment, with the Scooby's of all people.

 When they had made it to her apartment, he tried to be calm and let her set the pace - still not entirely sure this was what she wanted. As soon as they had walked through the door Willow lips had claimed his, whispering to him repeatedly that she loved him, needed him - Spike was drowning in her - her scent filling his senses, when they made love it was just that making love. Spike had never felt so complete; as Willow opened herself up to Spike he had thought his long dead heart had beat in anticipation.

"Spike?"

"Umm pet?"

"What you thinking about?"

"Last night" Spike's voice was rough with emotion.

"Oh"

"Yeah - OH. Willow?"

"Yes Spike" her voice small against his chest. "I love you," he whispered simply, grinning when she pulled back looked at him, smiling broadly.

"Well that's handy" she giggled.

"Why?"  He hedged, grinning at their new game.

"Because I love you too"

  Spike ducked his head and kissed her deeply, running his hands over her small frame - thanking the heavens for the chance to know and love this girl.

Pulling back he looked at her seriously "How do you fancy taking a trip - getting out of Sunnyhell for a while?" he asked

Willow frowned "Where did you have in mind?"

"LA, go see peaches and the cheerleader, they called everyday to find out how you were - Buffy had to order Cordelia to almost tie Angel to the chair when he found out you were hurt. She knew it would have destroyed me if you'd seen my sire and not me"

"Sorry about that" she told him, kissing him, lightly.

"No more than I deserved - anyway I got the impression that Cordy would have enjoyed tying up the poof"

"Yeah - she has a thing for him - big time. Although she won't admit it even too herself, she doesn't want to be in Buffy's shadow I think."

Spike thought for a moment, and then grinned, "What do think Angel will say about us pet?"

Willow shrugged "Guess he'll be surprised - but I hope he's happy for us"

"He'll probably give me a beating then give you a lecture" Spike moaned.

"HE WILL NOT LAY A FINGER ON YOU! Just let him try, I'll turn him in to, er something really nasty anyway" chuckling over the empty threat.

"Having frog fear isn't easy when you're a witch ya know" throwing back the covers she stood up and stretched.

Spike let out a long wolf whistle - laughing as she poked her tongue out at him.

"Come on get up you lazy vampire, I've got packing to do, and you have to phone the poof oops I mean Angel" laughing she walked in to the bathroom,  a slight limp the only clue that only a few weeks ago her life hang in the balance on a cold and unyielding pavement.

Spike sat up and stretched his arms above his head - looking at the clock he saw it was well after 1pm.

< Chit's keeping same hours as me! >

Looking around the room for his jeans, he suddenly remembered they were in the lounge - grinning a little at the memory of how they had got there.

~~~*~~~

"Hello Angel Investigations - we help the hopeless! How can we help you?"

"Bloody hell you're perky ain't cha!" Spike laughed

Lolling back on the rumpled bed, dressed just in his jeans - cigarette hanging from between smirking lips.

Spike had decided to call while Willow was in the shower; he'd been sorely tempted to join her but knew she was exhausted from the previous night.

< If she don't hurry up though gonna go find her - must be getting soft, I'm bloody missing her and she's only in the next room. All wet and warm, skin all pink from the hot water. - DOWN BOY! - What was I doing again?  >

"Spike?" Cordelia frowned.

"Yup - how'd ya guess?" he chuckled.

"Well the `bloody hell' was a big clue - is everything okay? - is Willow."

"Red's great, we wondered if you'd like some visitors for a couple of weeks - show us the sights, night time of course" grinning down the phone.

He had always liked Cordy - she was the only person out of the gang who was completely honest, painfully so sometimes.

He knew that in the past Willow and Cordelia hated each other but since the move to L.A they had been chatting by email and phone several times a week.

 Spike had been the one to call Cordelia about the accident.

Hers tears had almost unmanned him, Angel had taken the phone and demanded to know what was going on - Spike had crumbled at his Sire's voice, Spilling out everything that had happened.

The payment from Buffy, falling for Willow, Willow hearing him tell Buffy the deal was off - the terror of seeing her thrown off of the bonnet of the car.

Angel had raged at him, Spike could hear tears in his voice as he had done.

"Stop - Angel please. I can't. no more please" Spike had begged.

"Spike? My god how did you let things go so far - I thought you said you'd cared for her!"

"I STILL DO YOU PRAT! I don't know how things went so bad so quick"

"I'm coming up there"

"No don't Angel - please I'll call okay, just this once do this for me - I know you hate me and I really can't blame you but just wait for my call "

Angel was shocked at the pleading tone in Spike's voice; it was obvious he was worried sick about the girl, but typical Spike he thought he could front it out alone.

"If you or Willow needs me Spike just call okay - I can be there in a few hours. Good luck" he told the younger vampire.

"I will - maybe if she ever talks to me again I'll bring her up to visit you, bye"

When Spike had hung up the phone he had cried for hours, all his shame and anger at his actions spilling down his cheeks in cold rivers.

"Spike?" Cordelia asked.

Snapping back to the present, His undead heart still aching over the pain he caused  to the young girl, knew he'd do just about anything to make her happy.

"Sorry Cor - miles away, what was I on about again? - Oh yeah coming to visit, think that'll be okay with brood boy?"

He heard Cordelia laugh, "Yeah - I'll get him for you, might be better if you didn't call him that though"

He heard her call out to Angel - a couple of seconds later his sire's voice came on the phone.

"Hi Spike - how are things?"

"Great - so think you can put us up for a couple of weeks?"

Angel chuckled softly "Yeah think I can squeeze you in, I've got a hotel so you can choose from a couple of hundred rooms."

It was odd to hear Angel laugh, maybe having Cordelia around was good for him - Spike grinned evilly to himself.

< Never could resist screwing with Angel's mind >

"So how are you and Cor getting along? - Always liked her. Pretty little thing isn't she?"

He could almost hear Angel squirming in his chair "Yeah, yeah she is"

"She is what?" Spike heard Cordy ask.

Imagined her perched on the edge of his desk, big hazel eyes enquiring - Brown eyes looking like a deer caught in the headlights.

"On that note I'll be seeing you"

"Spike" Angel growled

"Bye peaches we'll see you in a day or so"

Hanging up the phone he burst out laughing.

"Why does that scare me? - What have you done to Angel?" Willow asked pulling her white bathrobe around her, damp hair clinging to her cheeks.

Spike jumped up and scooped her into his arms.

"SPIKE!"

"You look edible! Can I have a little nibble? I missed you," he whispered in to neck, his blunt teeth nibbling her earlobe.

Willow giggled "Stop that, now what where you laughing at?"

"Angel - just playing with his mind a bit, made a few comments about Cordy and he growled at me! - I ask you what sort of host is he gonna make"

"You are terrible - you know they like each other, so he said we could stay?, great so I guess I better go tell Giles we're off on vacation huh?" she asked pulling is lips to hers.

"Later" Spike growled rolling them both back on to the bed.

Willow sighed as she felt him kissing his way down her body.

"Yeah - later's good" she whispered.

~Part: 2~

Spike rolled them both on to the bed, kissing Willow's lips lovingly.

Willow giggled as he tickled her ribs - pulling back, he looked deep into her eyes.

"Think we should cool this off a bit luv" Spike whispered.

"Why?" Willow pouted.

"Pet you just came out of hospital - in a few weeks your gonna have to go back for a full M.O.T"

"Eh?" Willow frowned.

"Sorry luv, British thing - to do with cars anyway, I mean a full check-up, make sure everything's fine and dandy"

Willow lay back and looked at the ceiling "So you don't wanna - you know?"

Her old fears threatening to choke her - but her rational mind pushed forcefully away.

"Oh Red I wanna, I really really wanna. I'm just scared"

Willow sat up and looked at him "Scared? - what could you ever be scared off Spike? You're the big bad, master vampire - the original bad boy!"

Spike ducked his head - refusing to look at her.

"Spike?"

"Don't wanna hurt you pet" his voice barely a whisper.

Willow felt tears gather in her eyes, her chest hurt with the emotion his words had evoked.

"Me? - Spike you could never hurt me" she told him.

"I could - you've just come out of hospital yesterday - god Red less then 2 months ago your life was hanging by a thread"

Willow crawled over his body, sitting on his chest almost.

Spike stared in shock at the anger he could see on her face "Pet?"

"Listen to me you dummy - I love you - and I thought you loved me! Last night you told me, showed me how much you loved me - but suddenly today it's all changed?"

"Never gonna stop loving you, Willow I just don't want to rush you. Look us vampires have a pretty hearty sexual appetite - and amazing stamina luv" no small amount of pride in his voice.

"So?" Willow frowned down at him.

"I don't wanna wear you out do I pet - you need to heal" he finished on a pout.

He never saw her move, her lips suddenly teasing and sliding against her own - just as suddenly as it had begun  - she was gone.

Spike opened his eye just in time to see a pillow slap him across the face.

"You damn stupid - lovely, sexy , sweet vampire" Willow laughed, bashing Spike repeatedly with the pillow, each word she spoke was another strike to Spike's astonished  face.

It took Spike a moment to understand what going on - but the pillow hitting him on the head was a big clue.

Flipping her suddenly, his face looming over hers "Now what the hell was that all about?!" he groaned as he saw her eyes flash with lust.

"You! You really thought that us being together was going to hurt me? - Having you love me could never hurt me Spike - but I do understand what you're concerned about. So Mr Big Dumb vampire - do you think kissing me would be acceptable?"

Spike laughed at the seriousness of her tone.

"So your not gonna beat me anymore? I do love ya know - I'm just worried about you."

"I know - but you scared me Spike, I thought you didn't want to be with me. I know I'm silly but if you ever wanna break things off or there's any - and I mean ANY problem between us, tell me straight. Please. I've lived through enough `pretend' love to last me a life time - okay?" she whispered - tears threatening at the emotions she saw passing over Spike's face.

"Oh Willow I'm sorry, I never meant to make you think .. I'm so stupid I thought I was being all noble and good but all I did was make you think I didn't want you didn't I. That's never gonna happen pet - trust me you will get pissed off with me long before I tire of you . No-one's ever really loved me Red, except for me mum - but that's a long story." he grinned sheepishly.

"What about Dru?"

Spike shook his head "She loved Angelus - I was just a new playmate for a while - we all knew that." his voice held nothing of the anger and pain he had felt at the realisation that Dru was and never would be solely his, She belonged to her Sire the same way he belonged to her.

"Why would I ever want anyone else. I mean you said it yourself you're a `demon' in the sack - no pun intended" she giggled at his expression.

"Vixen" he growled.

"Only with you"

As Spike leant down to capture her parted lips, the telephone shrilled loudly in his ear.

BBBRRRRRIIINNNNGGG BBBRRRRRRRIIINNNNGGG BBBBBRRRRRIIINNGG!!!!

"BLOODY HELL!" he shouted rolling off of her.

Laughing Willow grabbed the phone and grinned at the softly cursing vamp .

"Hello?" she asked, trying to ignore Spike's mumbling in the background

"Oh hello Willow - not disturbing you am I?" Giles asked from the other end of the phone.

Willow grinned down at the cursing vamp next to her - who at that moment was holding his ear and raging quietly.

"Bloody stupid invention! Knew I should have drained that Alex bloke when I had the chance - stupid Scot!" he muttered.

Willow frowned but decided to let the comment go - for now!

"Giles you didn't interrupt anything that can't be continued with at a later date"

Spike raised his eyes at the comment and leered suggestively.

Crawling over to her, he laid his head in her lap as she chatted to the watcher on the phone, her soft fingers trailing through his hair over and over again.

Closing his eyes, he let his mind drift as the sound of her voice soothed even his inner demon.

< That voice is like pure poetry , soft and lilting, passionate and scared, a fragile young girl with the soul of a warrior - stop it sounding like Peaches again! >

Willow looked down at his contented face and tried to drag her attention back to what Giles was saying.

"Oh good - I tried to call Spike earlier but there's no answer, probably nursing a hangover" the watcher chuckled.

"Oh Spike was here - would you like a word?"

"He was at your flat at 8AM? Oh, OH, I see - okay . No Willow I won't speak to him now I'll CHAT with him later"

Willow smiled at Giles's `father knows best' tone.

"So what can I do for you Giles?" Willow asked, a smile on her lips as she imagined Giles cleaning his glasses into oblivion.

"Oh - nothing really - I just wanted to see how you were?, I was going to come by yesterday but I knew you'd be tired and need to rest. Actually on second thoughts I wouldn't mind a quick word with SPIKE"

Willow smiled a little, nudging the snoozing vampire on her lap - his blue eyes flickered open and he quirked an eyebrow as she held the phone out to him.

" 'Ello?"

Willow couldn't hear what Giles's half of the conversation but from spike's expression she could imagine what it was about.

"Yes! - Of course I bloody do. Now listen here mate."

" .........................................."

Willow laughed as Spike made a yapping motion with his hand and rolled his eyes.

Suddenly his eyes lost their playful hue and turned a burning gold, Spike shook the demon back and all but growled down the phone.

"I'm not stupid!"

"........................................"

"HEY I RESENT THAT!"

"....................................,............................... ........,........................................!"

"Okay fair point" Spike mumbled.

Willow frowned in confusion, but the conversation was obviously not over yet!

"....................."

"Listen Rupe' I know you love Willow."

"..........................."

"Yeah well so do I!"

"...................."

"Thank you - now if you don't mind I've got to kiss the redhead head senseless, get changed - Then we'll BOTH be over okay?"

Willow could hear Giles laugh as Spike hung up the phone.

"Stupid git wanted to know my intentions!"

"So Mr William Thomas just what are your intention?"

She laughed as he waggled his eyebrows suggestively and reached up to pull her lips down to his.

"Do I really need to bother answering that?" he growled against her lips.

Sighing she kissed him back, pouring her feelings for him into the kiss,  letting Spike know without words just how much he was loved.

Pulling back a little she looked down at him seriously.

"Spike?"

"Hmmmm pet?"

"Gotta get up"

"uh uh"

"Come on you lazy ass vamp - go get dressed or we'll never get to Giles's" she told him sternly - her breath catching as he swooped in for a final kiss before leaving the bed.

"Scoot!"

"Your no fun Red - only wanted another little taste" he grumbled as she pushed him out the door.

Knowing full well he was letting her because in any other circumstances it would have been like trying to move solid rock.

"You got ten minutes luv - if your not dressed by then I'll be back to help!"

He told her as a parting shot.

Closing the door - she left the latch off so he could let himself back in.

Wandering into the bedroom Willow pulled on a pair of jeans and a white blouse, grabbing her denim jacket from the back of the chair she went in search of her trusty trainers.

<  My limp doesn't notice as much in trainers, Then Spike doesn't get all sad looking when he sees it >

Shaking her head at his antics last night and that morning, Willow was amazed at how sweet he was, he could a joke in any situation - even if sometimes it was at someone else's expense.

<  Okay most times!  >

Tying the laces she smiled.

< You're a lucky girl Willow - You have a new home, a guy who is the cutest thing on two legs, friends who love you - and to cap it off an ex-watcher who worries about your maidenly virtue.

Willow had never really thought of herself as lucky before - it was a nice feeling she decided.

Brushing her hair she heard the front door open.

"Back already Spike?" she called

"SPIKE?" a female voice questioned silkily.

Willow froze - her MOTHER!!

~Part: 3~

Stepping out in to the lounge she saw her parents standing by her open front door.

"WILLOW" her mother trilled, opening her arms wide she crossed the room and enveloped her in a cold and stiff hug. Air kissing both cheeks.

"Who's Spike?" Ira frowned, watching his daughter's expression closely.

"My boyfriend" Willow mumbled, feeling as if she was 14 again.

"I thought you were going out with that short musician" her mother spat the last word as if it were poison.

"We split up over six months ago, I did tell you. So what brings you two back to Sunnydale?" Willow asked amazed she still had the capacity to speak.

"We had to sign a few forms to do with the house. Say goodbye to some old friends. Actually we were going to see the Clarke's - remember them, their daughter was accepted to Cambridge. Anyway they wasn't at home so I thought we'd stop by here and see what kind of home our money bought you" Sheila explained - obviously waiting for Willow to be `over the moon' at their presence.

Willow could feel her anger beginning to bubble in her stomach.

< Second best again! >

"Hello Pet!" Spike called coming through the front door, he paused briefly at the sight of Willow's visitors.

"I don't believe I've ever met you - you must be one of Bunny's little friends - come to visit our daughter have you?" Shelia sniffed, her eyes travelling slowly over the blonde who had just entered.

"Red, you okay pet?" Spike asked, completely ignoring the older woman and striding across the room purposefully .

Willow nodded as he took her hand, turning to face her mother she said quietly.

"Buffy"

"Excuse me?" Shelia frowned, not just at Willow's words but also at the man holding her daughters hand with such care.

"Her name is Buffy - not Bunny. And no Spike is not her friend he's mine!" her voice rising steadily.

"Don't use that tone with your mother" Ira snapped.

Disgusted at the type of man his daughter had obviously become involved with.

< Looks like that awful Billy idol. I bet he drinks, smokes, and rides a motorcycle too >

"I'll use whatever the hell tone I want to use - this is my HOME now not yours. I'll grant you that your money bought this for me, but that was your decision not mine, if you've forgotten you sold the house from under me - while I lay in a hospital bed!. Also thank you for asking how I AM!. Next time you come to town and your friends aren't home kindly don't come HERE!"

"YOU UNGRATFUL LITTLE WITCH!" her father roared.

"You'd better believe it - You didn't do a damn thing for me, not one word of praise not one act of kindness did you ever bestow upon me. Other children had your full attention. Mom you didn't even notice when I cut my hair - you didn't notice for six months. You paid me to get out of your lives - I'm gone, did you really expect me to welcome you with open arms after the letter I got? Why the hell should I pretend there's something there when there's not!"

Willow felt Spike's hand on her waist, holding her gently - just letting her know he was there, backing her the whole way.

"Now Willow stop being so childish - What will your young man think of us, with you telling tales like that" Sheila simpered, hating her daughter with every fibre of her being for humiliating them like that in front of a stranger.

<  A very handsome stranger. I wonder what on earth he's doing with Willow!  >

"I'll think good on er' for finally telling you useless bastards what she thinks of you!" Spike grinned.

Delighted that his red was standing up to these people for the first time ever.

Ira flushed beet red at the blonde's remark.

"I see no reason for that kind of language my boy"

"Not your boy  - old man. Have you any idea how badly hurt Willow was? She could have died!" his voice rising with every word.

"No-one told us, I didn't receive a call for over two weeks" Shelia mumbled.

"Did you hear what you said mother? You didn't have any contact with your only child for over two weeks and didn't occur to you to call!"

Willow sat heavily - the pain in her leg building.

"Pet?" Spike asked crouching by her side.

"I'm okay" she whispered.

"You shouldn't use `nicknames' in your relationship it takes away the special ness of the person you are with" Sheila replied automatically, her voice full of authority.

"Willow, Pet, Luv, Red - they are all the same person to me sweetheart" his voice dripping sarcasm, "She's still the woman I love" Spike finished without even bothering to raise his head.

"I would have thought that if  you think so much of my daughter you would have at least called us - HER PARENTS! - sooner" her father barked.

"Willow told me not too, her exact words were `don't bother them with this' - wanna know when she said that? When she was laying on the concrete"

"Mom, dad just go. I absolve you with all future dealings with me. Just pretend I died on that street okay. It'll make it easier for all of us"

Willow rubbed her hands through her hair, massaging her scalp lightly- the beginnings of a headache fluttering behind her eyes.

"You have no right to attack us in such a fashion. We're your parents and we deserve some respect!"

Willow's head shot up and she stood slowly - with Spike's assistance - and stared at her mother with fury in her eyes.

"YOU DESERVE? YOU! DESERVE! - You deserve NOTHING!. I became what you wanted me to become - and it was never enough! I was farmed out by you at every opportunity! Every relative you could find! Until I reached an age where you felt I could be left alone for a couple of days. Remember that! How old I was mom? How about you dad do YOU REMEMBER!"

"Willow" her father warned, his eyes moving nervously to Spike.

The atmosphere in the room grew thick, the ticking of the clock sounding like a gunshot firing off the walls.

"Pet?" confusion filling his voice.

<  She said she was 14 they started leaving her alone. What the hells going on here? >

Turning to Spike she spoke softly  "I'm sorry, I lied. I wasn't 14 - I just told you and Buffy that. The first time I was left I was 6 years old. They had to go to some conference on `Child Abuse' of all things. They couldn't find anyone to watch me so they locked me in the house for 2 days. They left soda's, chips, candy bars and cakes on the table in the kitchen and just left"

Turning to her parents - her eyes shining - she whispered "Have you any idea how frightened I was, I sat on the couch for hours thinking - thinking you were playing a game and that at any moment you'd be back. When it got dark, god I was terrified."

A shudder passed through her body at the memory "I was too small to reach the light switches, and you'd forgotten to turn any of the lights on . I sat on the couch all night - too scared to move - to scared to go to the bathroom, have you any idea how humiliated I felt when I wet myself  - I thought you'd come home and beat me for soiling myself! I suddenly realised at that moment that you really didn't care."

A small sob passed her lips as she continued, all the pain and anger at her parents, pouring from her like it was blood from an open wound.

"I heard you see, that night you sat in the kitchen wishing I'd never been born - at that moment I wished it too. I sat there at 6 years old with the knowledge that not one person on the planet loved me and if I died not one person would miss me, except for Xander. All night I cried and the only things I had to comfort me were the TV and darkness"

Her voice fading like the image from an old photograph as the memory of that night crashed in on her. Tears falling from her eyes at the long suppressed memory of terror she had felt that night.

"How could you have done that to a child? You were meant to care for children!" Spike raged, taking a threatening step towards her parents.

"We had no choice - no-one wanted her to stay anymore. Everyone we asked said she was an `odd child' she was quiet, shy, didn't speak unless someone spoke to her first. One of our friends said she was like a ghost. We had no choice but to leave her we HAD to go to that conference!" Shelia defended herself angrily.

"Is it any wonder I was so quiet! You ignored me! I knew when I was sitting on the couch that night what ALONE felt like - last night I found out what being LOVED feels like. I decided I prefer the latter. Just go - I never want to see either of you again" Willow whispered her eyes hard and cold as she stared at the two people in front of her, it was as if the blinkers had come off and she could finally see them for the monsters they really were.

As they turned to go, Ira looked back at his daughter  - the realisation of what he had put her through crawling through his skin - making it crawl in shame. He was no different from the parents of the children he had spent his life helping.

"I'm sorry - I'll call you in a few days" he told her, his voice barely a whisper for all the emotion he was trying to keep in check.

"Don't bother Ira, she always was a disappointment!" Sheila snapped at her husband, amazed he's even considering calling the ungrateful wench.

"SHUT UP WOMAN! - I never should have listened to you! She's our only child and you've never given a damn! - I never should have let you convince me to leave her here alone! - We've damaged her beyond repair!" he raged, glaring at his wife with hatred in his every molecule.

Shelia strode from the apartment without a backwards glance.

"Willow - I.. - I'm so.. - I should have.. - I'm sorry"

"It's okay daddy - please just go okay"

"Spike wasn't it?" the older man addressed the blonde who so obviously worshipped his daughter.

"Yeah?"

"Take care of her for me?" handing Spike a card with his personal number on.

Spike nodded "Always"

Spike held Willow close as Ira closed the door softly behind him.

The silence in the room grew heavy with each passing moment, the two lovers holding each other close in the middle of the room.

Willow held on to Spike like he was a lifeline to the here and now - she could feel her yesterdays trying to invade her mind.

Sobs began to tear from her throat, her shoulders slumped and she finally gave way to the misery that was choking her.

Spike shushed and petted.

Sitting her on his lap he rocked her like a child.

"Pet?"

Willow raised red-rimmed eyes to his sad ones.

"I love you"

"I know - I love you too, I just wish you hadn't had to hear all that" she whispered against his chest.

"Why not? Glad I got to hear you tell em, it'll do you the power of good"

"I just wish."

"What ?"

"I just wish they could have loved me a little bit - I tried so hard Spike and for so long, I really did but nothing I did helped"

"Think your dad loves you pet - as for your mum are you sure she's even human?" he joked.

Willow smiled and raised her head "I'm not sure"

Sighing she lay her cradled her head under his chin "I always knew I'd have that conversation one day - I've had it in my head a million times - do you know it wasn't a bit like I imagined it"

"How so?" he frowned, smoothing down her hair.

"Well in my head they always saw the error of their ways and we became a happy little family. Now - well now I'm alone - for ever"

Spike hugged her close "Hardly pet. Got me, Peaches, Cordy, Buffy, Anya, Giles and the ever idiotic Xander" he joked trying to lift her sprits.

"Xander's been there all the way through - he's the only one who knows that they used to leave me alone when I was small - we're alike in a lot of ways really" Willow whispered, threading her fingers through his.

"Yeah - I can see the resemblance!"

"Seriously - he used to call me every night, still does. Just to make sure I'm okay - even if he's on a date he calls - nine o`clock on the dot" she smiled at the one thing that was constant in her life.

"And I ., I'd better not" she whispered.

"What pet? Won't tell anyone your secrets or Xander's for that matter- I quite like Chubbs, he sticks up for his friends"

"Xander hates bullies" Willow whispered, her eyes slowly meeting his.

Seeing he was interested she ploughed on - praying Xander would forgive her for telling his secret.

"His dad"

"What about him?" Spike asked, his voice low.

"Beat him - a lot. The first time I saw it he had run away, run's not the right word because he could barely walk. He must have been about 9 I guess when he first let me know what was happening. When I opened the door to him that night - oh Spike for a second I didn't recognise him. His face was covered in blood, he was so scared. I was alone - as always. I helped him"

"How?" Spike asked, knowing she had to let these memories free - that they weighed her down as much as her parents had.

"I cleaned his wounds, he had burn marks all up his arms. I just looked after him. I didn`t know what to say, how to react to what he was telling me. I used to envy his family life - you know parents there EVERY night - I just sat and listened in silence, not knowing what do"

"You did what no-one else had done for him pet - you cared"

"yeah I guess I did. That night he stayed. I made him cocoa and ordered pizza. I called his mom and told her where he was - she said he should stay, what she really meant was his dad was still drinking and it wasn't safe for him to go home. You know Spike it was that night I realised he was my best friend - that night I fell in love with him"

Spike stiffened at the comment until he realised what she meant. She loved Xander like he was her brother - Spike knew she'd had a crush on him years ago but that was then and this was now - she loved HIM, Spike!

"What about his dad now?" he asked softly, amazed at what Willow had told him - Spike may have been a demon but even his stomach churned at the thought of children being used as punching bags for alcoholics!

"Xander's dad hasn't hit him since he was almost 17 - Buffy had been here just over a year. Giles had asked Xander to help him set some equipment up for training - Xander always wore long sleeved shirts to cover his bruises and scars - I guess Giles saw them as they were moving stuff about. It wasn't long after that that Giles offered to train Xander too. He bulked up, learnt how to defend himself - boxing that kind of thing."

Spike could tell she was struggling to tell him this - her voice little more then a whisper as she spilled her best friend's secrets to him.

 Spike had always thought that Xander was an odd kid, sticking so close to his friends who always appeared to be girls, he realised now that the reason he did was because they didn't make him feel threatened in anyway - it made sense too how resentful of Giles, Angel and Spike  he had become, they threatened his safe world.

In a way, they had threatened him, not just with violence but by taking his world away.

Spike snapped back to the present as he realised Willow was still talking.

"One night his dad started in on him again - he punched Xander in the face, I don't know why but Xander snapped - for the first time ever he hit his father back. Laid him out cold - when he came round he told his dad that if ever laid a hand on him or his mother again he'd get worse. To my knowledge he never has. I was so proud of him -  he had finally beaten his own demons - I wish could defeat mine too"

"Think you did that today luv -how you feeling now?" his voice soft.

"Free - like I've been let out of a cage. I can be the Willow I want to be, not what they expect me to be"

Kissing Spike soundly she stood up, resolve face firmly in place.

"Come on. I've got to get out of here for a while. Let's go see Giles"

Spike nodded "Lead on pet" he told her, linking his arm through hers they set off for the ex-watchers place.

~~~*~~~

Upon entering Giles's apartment they were met with deathly silence.

"GILES!" willow called.

A very harried Giles appeared from the kitchen - clutching as huge mug of black coffee.

"You alright old man?"

"Yes - yes - fine thank you. Drink?" he rambled.

"No thank you" Willow told him- sitting on the sofa.

"I could do with a drink - kitchen Watcher - NOW!" Spike all but growled.

Willow knew Spike was going to tell Giles about her parents visit - they had discussed it on the way over and thought Giles should know they had shown up.

Sitting quietly she waited for the fireworks to start.

5 . . . . . . . . . . . 4 . . . . . . . . . . . 3. . . . . . . . . . 2. . . . . . . . . . . .1

"THOSE CALLOUS BASTARDS!!!!"

As those words left Giles mouth a thundering of footsteps came hurling down the stairs.

Willow's head snapped round at the sound - her mouth hanging open in shock.

Standing at the foot of the stairs were four children - three girls and a boy.

The eldest girl looked about 14, with red hair, dressed in a pink tracksuit black boots, and dripping attitude.

The next, obviously a sister to the first appeared to be around 12 with long brown hair tied in a plait that hung halfway down her back. She was dressed the complete opposite to her sister - in an England football kit complete with trainers. Tomboy through and through - which was made all the more apparent by the football she was bouncing gently.

The youngest girl stood there staring at Giles with her mouth open - she had blonde hair and looked like a miniature Avril Lavigne! - But no older than ten.

The Boy looked to be about the same age, wearing a spider man shirt and jeans, a gameboy clutched tightly in his hand. His eyes wide at the visitors in Giles lounge.

If Spike didn't know better he would have sworn the boy looked at him in awe!

<  Do I know him? - Kid sure as hell looks like he knows me ??  >

"Giles did you just swear!" the young blonde asked incredulously.

"Um of course not Aimie - you must have misheard" Giles stumbled blushing slightly.

"He did Aimie - he said bastards! - Big whoop. Who are these people Giles?" the eldest asked looking at Spike and Willow, a bored expression fixed on her face.

"These are friends of mine Lisa - now why not take the others up stairs while I have a little chat okay?"

"But Giles's we're bored up there" her sister told him

"Sophie I thought you were watching videos!"

"We were" the young boy almost whispered.

His eyes flicking to Spike again.

Spike frowned at Willow who just shrugged her shoulders in puzzlement.

"So Thomas what happened to `Finding Nemo" Giles rubbed his temples, a blinding headache building quickly.

"Found him" Sophie deadpanned - grinning as she saw Spike smile at her joke.

"Um Giles do you have something to tell us? Are these .." Willow asked tearing her gaze from the kids.

Their accents WERE very British - but leaning more towards Spike's than Giles's

"WHAT - no of course not. They're not mine!"

"Thank Christ for that" Lisa huffed, rolling her eyes. But sending a coy smile in Giles direction.

< uh oh - someone has a crush! > Spike thought grinning.

"I LIKE HER" Spike laughed at the teenager's antics "Love the attitude kid"

"I'm not a kid!" she snapped back.

Willow grinned at Spike's shocked expression - he wasn't used to people talking back to him - especially grouchy teenage girls!

<  Okay Buffy doesn't count -  cos she's the slayer!  >

Spike shrugged his shoulders - deciding to give Giles a chance to speak to Willow, he announced.

"Come on kids - and sarcastic teenager! - lets go see what other video's Rupe's been hiding"

Lisa stared at him "Don't wanna" she pouted.

"GET YOUR BONEY ARSE UP THOSE STAIRS!" Spike roared.

"OOOhhh scary!"

Spike leaned in close "Wanna see how scary I can be kid - I'll make you listen to Giles music for an hour!" the edge taken off by his sardonic smirk at the mention of Giles's name.

"Hey like you too!" Lisa laughed running after the others.

Willow raised her eyebrows as Spike grinned "See all redheads fancy me pet"

"Sophie put `McFly' on again - I'm sure blondie-boy will luv em- make sure it's FULL BLAST" they heard Lisa shout from upstairs.

"McFly? - What the hell is a McFly?" Spike muttered following the kids up the stairs.

Giles flopped on to the sofa next to Willow and closed his eyes "He has no idea what he's let himself in for"

"Giles what's going on around here? - Who's kids are those? And what are they doing here?"

Giles opened his eyes and began to tell Willow the whole horrifying story.

~Part: 4~

As soon as the upstairs door closed - what can only be described as an over joyful beat started up, loudly.

Willow looked up at Giles, her eyes wide at his grinning expression.

"Giles?"

"Let's see how long he can take that - I have been assured its music, although I'm not so sure"

As heavy thuds and bangs came from the floor above - Giles leaned back and closed his eyes.

"It seems as though they are now trying to teach Spike the dance routine that accompanies the song - he'll be fine Willow"

He explained the clearly worried girl - it seemed as though the little witch clearly did love the bleached vampire - the look of fear on her face at the noise coming from above was testament to that.

"Giles what the hell is going on here? - Who are those kids? And what are they doing here?"

"They are the children of a brother and sister who are very good friends of mine - their cousins Willow so get that odd expression off you face" he explained sipping his coffee and smiling every time he heard a muffled curse from above.

<  Seems Mr William ` The Bloody' Thomas has two left feet  >

"Okay, so their cousins and they belong to some friends of yours - I get that but what are they doing here? - I'm not being funny Giles but you hardly seem ecstatic to be looking after them" Willow asked gently.

Giles sighed "No - I agree but the problem is they were meant to stay in town for a few days, with their parents of course, but a couple of hours ago they got a call from the council. It seems they're needed for some big emergency"

"They're parents are all watchers?" Willow asked, wincing slightly at the sound of Spike's ripe language from above.

{I didn't know your BLOODY foot was there - I told you I can't dance!!. OI STOP HITTING YA SISTER IT AIN'T BLEEDING NICE!!"}

"Yes I met them while I was studying at the watchers academy - nice people. It seems odd they have such disagreeable children?"

Willow laughed "Come on Giles they're  just kids - kids are meant to be like that. So why aren't you at the emergency meeting too?"

"Oh I'm not needed it seems at the moment - Gary and Rosemary were called because they are experts in their fields - Gary is an inventor he makes the weapons that the council uses and Rosemary's a language expert, she speaks dozens of then fluently - always top of the class if I remember rightly"

{Oh shit! Don't you dare start that bloody song again  - Lisa I mean it - don't touch that .}

The rest of Spike's sentence was cut off by the wail of music.

Willow chuckled " He's going to go nuts in a minute - think I should go save the kids?" her eyes on the ceiling.

"I'm right there with him - if anyone needs saving it`ll be Spike" Giles beamed - delighted to have the children torturing someone else for a while.

"So they're gonna be staying with you for a while then?"

"A couple of days - I'm sure I'll survive it. So I hear you had some visitors today, how are you feeling?"

Willow smiled softly at his obvious concern. She wished her parents could just have had  a small piece of the love and concern she saw on Giles's face at that moment

"I'm feeling fine physically - mentally it feels as though I've gone ten rounds with, um a really famous boxer"

Giles smiled a little at her scrambled metaphor - nodding his head for her to continue.

"I couldn't believe the nerve of them - showing up like that. Spike was great though, he just backed me up when I needed his strength and kept quiet the rest of the time" her eyes shining at the memory.

"So you and Spike." Giles asked softly.

"Yep I love him Giles and even more importantly he loves me - for ME" she replied beaming.

"As he should - I'm happy for you - both of you. I'm so glad you sorted things out - when you were in the hospital he was a terror. Either not saying a word or demanding to know how you were , he helped Buffy on patrol as few times but she had to stop him beating a vampire to mush. Buffy said that she staked the poor vamp to put him out of his misery. She blamed herself for the situation you were in - and of course Spike blamed both of them - so it wasn't a happy time around here - in fact it was a nightmare for all of us. I never realised how much you all mean to me - when I saw you lying in the hospital I felt, well as a father would I expect. Spike demanded you had the best care, own room everything you wanted - he loves you a lot Willow. I'm just so glad that alls well that ends well"

{THAT'S IT NO MORE - SODDING SONG AIN'T EVEN MUSIC - NOW THIS IS MUSIC}

They heard Spike yell, followed by `The Clash' blaring out from above.

"It seems Spike has found my record collection" Giles smiled, tapping his foot to the beat.

Willow laughed until four pairs of feet came hurtling down the stairs.

"Oi -  I'll find it - I promise - it slipped!" Spike shouted over the banister.

"Oh no - what's happened?" Willow moaned as she looked at the children's thunderous expressions - well except for Thomas who was still playing his gameboy.

"Giles tell him!" Lisa whined loudly.

"Yeah he THREW Aimie's C.D out of the window!" Sophie yelled, hands on her hips and fury in her eyes.

Aimie's stood there silent, her eyes shining with unshed tears and her bottom lip trembling.

Thomas - he still sat with his head bowed to the all-powerful gameboy - completely oblivious to anything but the tiny Italian plumber running around the screen.

"SPIKE GET YOUR CUTE ASS DOWN HERE NOW!" Willow shouted up the stairs grinning as the blonde descended the stairs - a slight pout marring his otherwise gorgeous features.

Putting  comforting arms around Aimie's shoulders - Lisa and Sophie smiled evilly as Spike stomped down the stairs.

"You are so gonna get it now Blondie" Lisa hissed .

Spike poked his tongue out at the stroppy teen and turned to Willow -  he could see Willow was fighting laughter at their antics - and he couldn't blame her, a vamp getting picked on by a bunch of school kids was pretty funny, if it wasn't so bloody ironic.

"Pet?"

Willow lips twitched at his expression - he looked so sorry for himself although from what she'd heard he was hardly the injured party.

"Did you really throw Aimie's C.D out of the window?"

"It was an  accident luv, it slipped!" he fibbed lamely.

His eyes glinting with humour as the uproar started around him.

"SLIPPED!  Yeah after you opened the window and threw it! - oh brother I could come up with something better than and I'm TWELVE!" Sophie snorted in disgust.

"Willow tell me you don't believe that crap please???!!" Lisa moaned -her eyes shooting sparks at the sullen vamp, Aimie continued to cry softly - bereft of her favourite C.D. Her brother would be happy at least.

"Girls would you please go and see if you can find it - if not I'm sure Spike would only be too pleased to buy you another - won't you SWEETIE"

Spike nodded glumly - grinning at the redhead as the three girls marched out the door - mumbling under their breaths about "stupid bloody men"

As the door closed behind them Spike laughed "Those kids are evil - funny as hell - but plain evil" plopping down on the sofa next to Thomas.

He felt the kid freeze - and frowned slightly "That's it kid! - What the hells your problem?" he snapped.

Thomas turned huge brown eyes to his - real fear on his face but he spoke anyway.

"Your William the bloody aren't you?" his voice so soft it was only because of Spike's vamp hearing that he heard him at all.

"How in the hell do you know that? - Giles what's going on here!" Spike asked, wonder in his eyes and amazement on his face.

"My dad told me about you, about you being a vampire" Thomas told him his voice shaking.

Frowning Spike turned to Giles "What! - Okay I am officially confused now - how the hell does this kid know I'm a vamp Giles - what is he a mini-watcher or something?"

"Oh dear - no Spike nothing like that. Thomas your correct that is William `the bloody'- but we call him Spike now. You don't have to be afraid of him though - he doesn't bite people anymore. Um you know when a boy dog is sent to the vets so he doesn't chase the girl dogs anymore ..." Giles began only to have Spike cut him off mid- sentence.

"OI That's - I mean Willow tell him I'm not" Spike shouted jumping to his feet and pacing back and forth.

Thomas's eyes went wide at Spike's demeanour - as soon as Spike saw this he swore softly and  sat back down turning to the child as he spoke softly.

"Look kid - sorry about that. The thing is the government put a chip in my head - so I can't bite people anymore, can't hit either - well unless you're a demon that is - don't look like a demon though" Spike tilted his head as if considering the boy.

Spike grinned as he saw Thomas smile "I'm not a demon"

"Thought not - they smell something `orrible, you smell like.." Spike sniffed the top of the kids head "chocolate?"

Willow laughed at the scene before her - she knew Spike was a great guy, she just never knew how well he got on with kids.

Willow crouched in front of Thomas "He's my boyfriend and you don't think I'd go out with a mean guy do you?" her voice soft.

Thomas's face went pink as Willow spoke, shaking his head he relaxed a little "So you really won't bite me?" he asked Spike.

"Nah - not my thing anymore" Spike told him, ruffling the child's hair.

Willow grinned at the pair - they both seemed to relax as she saw Thomas tug on Spikes sleeve

"I was named after you" he whispered.

"Really?" Spike turned to Willow "You hear that pet - kids named after me!" he told her proudly.

"Yep - Thomas William" the boy chuckled as Spike grinned at him.

Just then the girls marched back in - Lisa pointed at Spike "Your lucky pal - if this don't work though." she let the threat hang in the air as they stomped up the stairs to check their precious C.D.

"You found it then?" Giles asked concern in his voice - concern over what the girls would do to Spike if they hadn't.

"Yeah - gonna check it now" Lisa called from the top of the stairs.

Aimie glared at Spike from the landing and with a flick of her blonde ponytail she flounced into the bedroom.

"If looks could stake huh?" Spike whispered to Thomas.

"Yeah - I know she's my twin an all - but she a real pain in the butt sometimes. Don't get a minutes peace from her music"

"TWINS??" asked Spike - not seeing any resemblance between the dark and light haired siblings.

Sighing Thomas sat back on the couch "I know - I know- `you don't look a bit alike' - thank god".

Suddenly the music blared out above them - making everyone jump.

"Sod it - it still works" Spike muttered

"Spike - that wasn't very nice throwing it out the window like that" sighing as Spike kissed her lightly.

"Give us a bit of peace though didn't it?"

"I quite like that song, it kinda catchy - what's it called again?" she asked, her face the picture of innocence.

"The girl with five colours in her hair" Thomas and Spike answered automatically.

Spike's head snapped up as he realised what she'd said "Please Red no - I beg you for the love of all things pure and sacred!"

Giles laughed outright - unable to control himself "Just what the hell about you is Pure and sacred Spike? - I'm just dying to know!"

"MY BLOODY HEARING MATE!" Spike stormed.

"Sorry wasn't thinking" and still laughing Giles went into the kitchen for yet another cup of coffee.

Willow and Spike sat in the lounge - the heavy beat of the music still blaring above them unabated.

Thomas curled back into the corner of the sofa and soon was totally oblivious to everything and everyone around him again.

Spike peered over his shoulder at the tiny screen the boy was fixated on.

Frowning in confusion over what the kid was doing he simply had to ask "Funny telly ain't it mate?" he inquired finally.

Thomas, not taking his eyes from the screen, told him "It's a gameboy - you know a computer game?"

"Oh - kinda small init?"

"Meant to be - so it'll fit in my pocket. Wanna go?"

Spike nodded - pleased that the boy seemed to have relaxed around him now.

"I'll leave you boys down here playing - think I'll go see how the girls are getting on" Willow told them, standing.

"Want some earplugs pet ?" Spike asked, frowning as he tried to make the tiny plumber  on the screen collect gold coins.

~~~*~~~

Willow braced herself for the onslaught she would in no doubt encounter on the other side of Giles's bedroom door.

Pushing the door open - the sight before her was a shock to say the least.

The three girls sat on the bed, thoroughly bored - the C.D player set to repeat .

"You okay?" she asked having to shout over the din, Sophie reached over and turned the music down.

"We're bored - Thomas and Blondie are downstairs and we haven't got anyone to annoy" Sophie explained - as if it was the most obvious thing in the world.

Willow grinned (aha female logic!) "So why don't you come downstairs for a while. I know it can't be much fun having your holiday interrupted like this - but I'm sure your parents wouldn't want to think you're bored"

The girls looked at each other - the silent question being bounced from one to another - with an almost imperceptible nod between them, they stood.

Lisa looked at Willow for a moment and then told her - her chin thrust forwarded in a manner of pure defiance "Okay - but you tell your Blonde cutie - he starts on me again and I'm gonna .. um .set Sophie on him - got it?"

Willow winced as she saw Sophie nodded in agreement "Oh no, what ELSE has he done?"

Lisa blushed and kept quiet - but Sophie, as little sisters are apt to do - spilled the beans.

"Keeps teasing her about fancying Giles - GROSS!"

"SOPHIE!" Lisa cried, slapping her sister around the back of the head - Sophie ducked quickly before it could connect (the move spoke of years of experience)

"Oh I see - well I can understand it really. I used to have a crush on him too, REALLY. He is kinda cute in a stuffy kinda way" Willow smiled as the girl nodded in agreement, her eyes glazing at the thought of the ex-librarian.

"See someone with taste! Although I'm not so sure about Blondie" wrinkling her nose at the thought of her tormentor.

"He's a sweetheart really - now come on lets go see what the boys are up to"

"Gameboy" the girls chorused as they walked down the stairs - only to be met by Spike shouting AGAIN!

"BLOODY STUPID PLUMMER! - why'd he jump then! Now he's fried!"

"You did it you stupid GIT I told you not to jump THEN" Thomas voice told him angrily.

"THOMAS! Language - or I'll tell mum" Aimie snapped

"BLEEDING HELL" the two computer players moaned as they saw them standing there - all four of the females wearing matching scowls!

Although Spike did have the good sense to try and look a little ashamed "Sorry pet. Bloody - er I mean darn thing annoyed me"

Shaking her head, Willow motioned for him to follow her into the kitchen - Giles stood staring at the slow drip on the coffee machine - "hurry up dammit - I need the caffeine!" he griped to no- one in particular.

Spike frowned in the Watchers direction - then shrugging his shoulders at the  absurdity of him he turned back to Willow.

"K' Pet?"

"Yeah - look I only got the girls down here by promising them you'd behave - that means no more throwing C.D's out of the window , I still can't believe you did that by the way, OR upsetting Lisa" Willow told him sternly.

"How'd I do that then?" he frowned, puzzled.

Willow's eyes flicked to Giles and Spike nodded, understanding - "Oh I see, okay then I promise - I still think it's a bit odd though. He's old enough to be her father" Spike whispered for Willow's ears only.

Laughing she kissed him and looped her arms around his neck "That's what a crush is all about Spike - fancying the one you'll never think  your gonna get or in this case know you'll never get. You're telling me that in all your years you never had a crush?"

"Only once pet" he whispered against her lips.

"Oh and whom may I ask" Willow smiled - trying to imagine Spike lovesick and lonely.

"Just you - never thought you'd love me back" his voice truthful and his eyes telling her how much he feared he would never hear her say those precious words.

"Oh - well you got me now. I guess sometimes it just works out huh?" her face turning a pretty shade of red at his leer.

"It works pretty good for me red" as he leaned in for another kiss the phone suddenly rang right next to his ear.

BBBBBRRRRIIINNNGG BBBBRRRIIINNNGGG   BBBRRRRRIIINNNGGG!!!

" BLOODY HELL" Spike shouted scowling at the phone.

As Giles answered the phone, Willow lead a still cursing Spike into the lounge.

After a few minutes a mumbling Giles joined them - shaking his head and running his hand distractedly through his hair.

"Great just great. Now what the hell am I supposed to do. Bloody council. I can't see why they can't have called Wesley  - oh wait yes I can"

"Giles?" Willow asked, suddenly concerned for the watchers state of mind.

"Bloody people!. I'm sorry kids - yes Lisa I know - they want me to go over to the meeting. Now. I told them I couldn't that I was looking after the children, when they got quite shirty with me! TOLD ME IT WAS AN ORDER! - I ask you" throwing up his hands he sat in a chair - his tirade not over.

"What on earth am I supposed to do? Joyce is out of town , Buffy has patrolling, Xander -well I wouldn't let Xander look after a goldfish, and you've just come out of hospital!" sighing he flopped back in the chair and closed his eyes.

"Oh - that's why Willow's limping - you just came out of hospital! - What happened?" Aimie asked wonderingly up at Willow.

Willow bit her lip and glanced at Spike, who looked downcast at her expression. Lisa and Sophie who had been watching the exchange completely misread  the meaning, and were on their feet in seconds, descending on Spike like freight trains!

"YOU HURT WILLOW! - HOW COULD YOU! SHE'S LOVELY!" Sophie shouted pushing Spike back in to the armchair.

"I NEVER..." but he didn't get any further.

"I knew you were a sodding bully!" Lisa cried slapping him around the head, it seemed to be her favourite line of attack, and Spike not having known this took the full brunt of  it.

"NO NO GIRLS STOP" Willow cried, just as Sophie's fist connected with Spike jaw, with enough force to snap his head back.

"I thought you said he couldn't hurt people?" Thomas asked softly, his eyes wide as his cousins continued to attack the shocked vamp.

"THAT'S ENOUGH" Giles shouted.

The two girls stopped and looked at him "Sit down so Willow can explain"

The girls huffed in annoyance, walking back to their chairs - but not before each of them stamped on the bewildered vamps feet!

"BLOODY HELL!"

"Willow?" Aimie asked softly.

Willow sighed, knowing she'd have to tell them something.

"I got hit by a car - so it's not Spike fault okay" she told them quickly.

Sophie and Lisa immediately looked stricken - their eyes flicking to the vampire as their actions sunk in.

Looking at each other they whispered "Oh Shit!"

"So it wasn't your fault" Thomas exhaled looking at Spike.

Spike saw the relief on the kids face, looking at Willow he saw her pulling back in to herself - the memory of how she got hurt flashing over her face - and the reason why. Him.

"No I'm sorry to say Thomas that it is my fault" Willow's head snapped up and she stared Spike "I upset Willow -she thought I'd played a trick on her and that I didn't really love her so she ran out of a friend's house. She didn't see the car coming - I did  - I saw her hit the bonnet and crash to the ground, never been so scared in my unlife. I should have told her the truth from the beginning - should have told her a lot of things then it never would have happened " Spike explained sitting next to Willow.

"But she forgave you? Your together now?" Sophie s asked.

"Yeah - she forgave me. I think? Did you Red? We never really talked about it did we, didn't think we'd talk about it in a room full of rugrats - don't give me that look Lisa I'm still seeing stars - So anyway forgive me Red?" Spike whispered.

Willow nodded "Of course I do - it was an accident Spike - I never gave you a chance to explain did I - I just ran"

"Don't blame you pet after what you heard - I love you though, have for a long time" he told her kissing her sweetly.

Ignoring the retching sounds from around the room - Willow poured all her love into that kiss.

"Well - AHEM - As I was saying" Giles fumbled, only to have Sophie butt in.

"Wait - er Spike I'm sorry we thumped you" Sophie told him giving him a lopsided grin - elbowing her sister in the ribs.

"Yeah sorry" Lisa mumbled - looking anything but.

"S'okay - nice to see you stick up for people, although maybe you should wait for the whole story first. Nice right hook you've got there by the way" he grinned, rubbing his still aching jaw.

"My aunty Jo taught us - said a kid has to know how to defend themselves these days - never know when your gonna meet a weirdo!" she nodded sagely.

"Remind me never to piss off your aunty Jo" Giles chuckled "Well back to my dilemma - any ideas?" he asked the room in general.

"How long would you be gone?" Willow queried.

"No more than a day I should think - why?"

"We'll have them - as long as they don't mind camping on the floor for a night?" Willow told the grinning kids.

"WE'LL WHAT?" Spike shouted.

"Come on Spike - what's the worse that could happen?" she laughed as the kids ran upstairs to grab their stuff.

"We live on a Hellmouth pet remember, don't tempt fate!"

~Part: 5~

"Willow are you sure this is a good idea?" Spike asked, wincing at the heavy footsteps above his head.

The kids had been upstairs for no more than  ten minutes and in that time he had heard at least three  arguments and a punch up!

"They'll be fine - don't worry it's only for one night. Look you go and call Angel and let him know we'll be late, as in a day or so late. Okay?" Spike nodded and went off in search for the phone.

Dialling slowly he could just imagine Angel's reaction to this new piece of information!

"Hello Angel investigations - we help the helpless! How can we help you?" Cordy asked happily.

"Hi Cordy"

"Spike - you've not left yet?"

"No - not left yet. Can I speak to Broodboy" his tone flat and emotionless.

"Everything okay with you and Willow?" Cordelia asked, concerned at his tone

"Yeah - just  need a quick word with Broody"

"Oh - okay I'll just go get him. Hold on" Cordy put him on hold as she went in search of her boss.

Knowing he was in the basement training, she walked to the door and peered down - the sight below her made her sigh.

 Angel was doing his tai chi.

His body moving slowly through the movements, wearing only black track pants he was a munchable sight.

< Why does he need to do this! - He gets any more chilled and he'll be a Popsicle! -But oh my does he look cute -No Cordelia no lusting after the boss - big dead unfeeling guy remember! - He may be cute and strong and dependable and  - okay a hero - but NO HAPPY! Could you really stand being with him - but never being WITH HIM?>

Cordy knew it didn't matter how many times she had this conversation with herself - she was never going to convince herself that she didn't fancy him like mad - that she didn't love him.

Sighing heavily she called down.

"Angel! - Spike's on the phone - he needs to talk to you!"

Angel looked up and froze, his eyes slipping over her beautiful form - his seer and best friend and now receptionist was a major hottie!

< Or in the words of Doyle - a stiffener all right - No she's your best friend, at this point your only true friend. I mustn't fall for her - I can't risk Angelus again>

Cordy frowned as she saw his features cloud over "Angel?"

"Sorry Cor - on my way" he told her, jogging up the stairs.

Walking across the foyer he turned to the brunette "Did Spike say what he wanted?"

Shaking her head no, she told him "He sounded weird though"

"How could you tell the difference" Angel grinned as he picked up the phone - Cordy's laughter rang out, filling the too quiet hotel with the warmth of her voice.

"Har bloody Har mate" Spike growled down the phone at his sire.

"HI Spike -what's up?"

"Willow and me are gonna be a bit delayed mate" Spike told him.

"Oh why's that?"

Cordelia was perched on the edge of Angel's desk - listening in on his half of the conversation.

Angel's sudden laugh making her jump.

"YOU'RE WHAT!"

Cordy frowned at him. <What on earth's going on now!>?

"Babysitting! YOU!" Angel laughed - motioning for Cordy to come closer so she could hear Spike too - their heads pressed together, the phone separating them.

"Yeah - very funny mate. Calm down or you'll hurt yourself! - we're just helping out the watcher" Spike snapped.

Cordy and Angel grinned at each other, their eyes meeting in merriment.

Both lost in each other's gaze for a moment.

< Wow he's gorgeous, all sweaty and - STOP RIGHT THERE BRAIN! >

< She smells amazing! Like sunshine. Huh, does sunshine smell? >

"OI PEACHES!! - you listening to me!"

Angel and Cordy jumped at Spike's bark.

"Um oh yeah - sorry - so babysitting huh? - So you'll be here in a day or so then? - oh Spike?"

"What?" Spike voice was stony - waiting for more ribbing from his sire.

"Er, will you and um Willow - will you be needing ar."

Cordy rolled her eyes "What his Oafish-ness is trying to splutter is will you and Willow be needing a double room or two singles?"

Spike laughed, imagining his sire's expression.

"DOUBLE!"

"I thought so - really Angel how hard was that!" she huffed, grinning as he shrugged helplessly.

He coughed slightly "Oh so have fun with the kids Spike"

"Yeah right - you too have fun too - oh and Angel?" Spike grinned evilly

< Payback time sire!>

"Yeah?"

"Don't do anything I wouldn't do now! - And Angel remember that thing we were talking about, you know what you told me about Cordy? Well I agree - she is. TOTALLY!" with that Spike hung up the phone - laughing as he imagined Angel's expression.

< Get out of that one POOF!>

Back in L.A Angel's mouth was hanging open - his eyes flicked to Cordy's, she was frowning at him in confusion - having heard ever word of Spike's parting shot!

"So - What? Come on what does he agree with? What have you been saying about me?" she demanded.

Shaking his head dumbly - his mouth opening and closing like a fish -  he finally managed a strangled

"Nothing! Honest!"

Cordy huffed and stalked from the room "When he gets here I'll MAKE him tell me - I'll find out what you've been gossiping about!"

Angel put his head in his hands and planned the many ways he was going to hurt Spike when he got there - Angelus maybe a bad ass, but he had nothing on a love sick Angel.

~~~*~~~

Willow looked up as Spike returned laughing heartily.

< Uh oh - he's annoyed Angel again, but on the plus side he's looking happier! >

"Spike?"

"S'okay pet - just funning with him a little - I would pay a king's ransom to see his face at this moment!"

"What have you done this time?" Willow frowned; worry beginning to nudge at her.

"Nothing drastic - just a comment about the fair Cordelia!"

"Oh no - Spike behave please" she begged, her lips twitching as he continued to chuckle.

"Sorry - but he's just so easy!"

Spike couldn't help it, he collapsed on to sofa - roaring with laughter at the thought of Angel's lame excuse - he knew he should leave the poor guy alone but it was just so much fun screwing with him. If he didn't have the nerve to tell Cordy how he felt then far be it from he ,Spike, to make things easy for him.

"I take it Blondie's upsetting someone else now?" Lisa asked, walking slowly down the stairs with her bag.

"Yup" Spike told her happily.

"Well at least it keeps you off my back" she sniffed, sitting on the couch next to him stiffly.

"Lisa I'm sure once you and Spike get to know each other better you'll become good friends" Willow told the pouting teenager.

"NEVER" Lisa cried looking at Spike with distaste, Spike growled softly "okay that does it - this means war!" he cried jumping on her and beginning to tickle her mercilessly.

Lisa screamed - then screamed even louder with laughter - in the blink of an eye the other kids came barrelling down the stairs - after seeing the scuffle on the couch they looked at each other and grinned - before diving in to battle head first.

Willow stood back in shock - arms and legs stuck out from every angle on the couch!

"Spike!" she cried as she saw him begin to attack Aimie next - Lisa took the diversion to grab a cushion and bash him over the head.

"OW!" he bellowed

Giles put his head around the door once when the noise had begun, seeing the chaos he then retreated back to his packing with a mumbled "Bloody hell"

Willow didn't know what else to do - so she sat and watched the fun -  shrieks and laughter filled the room, it seemed that Sophie had found a particularly ticklish part of Spike anatomy - his RIBS!

"Arrgghh stop please!!" he cried - trying in vain to wriggle away - but to no avail - four sets of arms and legs kept him prisoner.

"We'll only stop if you sing for us!" Lisa told him, tickling his neck.

"Anything" Spike cried.

< I swear these kids are part demon!>

Which is how 15 minutes later Willow found herself walking through Sunnydale with four kids and a singing bleached blonde vampire!

Thomas perched happily on Spike's shoulders while he sang loudly - and kinda in tune!

"She's got a lip ring and 5 colours in her hair,
Not into fashion but I love the clothes she wears,
Her tattoo's always hidden by her underwear.
She don't care.

Everybody wants to know her name,
I threw a house party and she came
Everyone asked meWho the hell is she?
That weirdo with 5 colours in her hair.

She's just a loner with a sexy attitude,
I'd like to phone her cos she puts me in the mood.
The rumours spreading round that she cooks in the nude.
She don't care.

Everybody wants to know her name,
How does she cope with her new found fame?
Everyone asks me,
Who the hell is she?
That weirdo with 5 colours in her hair.

She was all I thought about,
The girl I couldn't live without.
But then she went insane,
She couldn't take the fame
She said I was the blame
She'd had enough
And shaved five colours off
And now she's just a weirdo with no name.

Everybody wants to know her name.
How does she cope with her new found fame?
Everyone asks me,
Who the hell is she,
That weirdo with 5 colours in her hair.

Do do do do do doo"

By the end of the song the whole group was singing - and getting some very funny looks from passers by.

It wasn't often you saw people happy in Sunnydale!

Willow couldn't have been happier - the kid's infectious humour had rubbed off on Spike and he was now trading songs with them as they walked slowly to her apartment - thankful that the sun had set so they didn't have to travel by the tunnels.

First the kids treated him to `That's what I go to school for' by Busted.

Too which Spike counted with a rousing rendition of  "My way" by the Sex Pistols.

Willow couldn't remember the last time she'd laughed so much, Spike twirled her around as they crossed the park - planting soft kisses as she spun by.

Once inside the apartment the chaos began again as Willow tried in vain to bring about some order - but Spike had by now started singing `old Londoner songs' which the kids loved - as these they knew!

"Maybe it's because I'm a Londoner that I love London so - maybe it's because I'm a Londoner that I think of her wherever I go. I get a funny feeling inside of me just walking up and down - oh maybe it's because I'm a Londoner that I love LONDON TOWN" the five cockneys sung proudly.

Willow clapped and cheered as they took their bows, grinning at their shared heritage - all be it a few centuries out of sync.

Finally agreeing the sing-a-long was officially over - the more serious issues of who was sleeping where began.

Lisa snagged the sofa leaving the younger three to sleep on the floor - once that was sorted out, much to the disgust of Sophie who had tried to get to the sofa first but had ended up in a heap after tripping over Spike's boot.

The next round of arguments began over what to have for dinner, closely followed by Spike spotting Aimie trying to sneak her C.D on to Willow's stereo system.

After that calamity was diverted Willow sent Spike and Sophie out for pizza, anything to keep the sisters apart for a while - the sofa issue kept raising its ugly head.

While they were gone Willow and the remaining kids set up the beds for the night, happy that the kids had sleeping bags with them.

By the time Spike opened the door to Willow's apartment it looked like a slumber party had blown up - not that he noticed, he was too busy shouting - again!

"ARSENAL!"

"Spike - language please" Willow begged, sighing heavily as she saw Sophie walk in behind him, loaded down with pizza's.

"No pet - you got the wrong end of the stick. It's an English football - um I mean soccer - team" Spike assured, gesturing wildly. This explained why Sophie was carrying the pizzas.

"Oh no - here we go" Thomas muttered, grabbing a slice of pizza from the nearest box and flopping down on the floor with it.

"So who do you support then? - Millwall? Chelsea? Spurs? Wimbledon? -  you look like a Wimbledon supporter, complete nutters they are!" Sophie asked, eyeing him enquiringly.

"Manchester United!" he told her proudly, puffing out his chest with pride and grinning - her next comment quickly wiped that from his face.

"Huh? I thought you liked FOOTBALL" she sniffed, not impressed one bit with his choice.

It took a moment for Spike to process her remark but once he had, he glared at the little girl menacingly.

"OI - just cos this season has been a bit ropey don't count us out!" he fumed.

Sophie merely shook her head in a pitying kind of way "Never counted you in - MATE - got rid of Beckham, killed your team. Plus ain't you meant to be a Londoner?"

"Yeah - So?" Spike frowned.

"Well any self respecting Southerner despises Man - U, must have been away awhile huh?" Sophie asked, pulling her slice of pizza apart as she spoke.

Spike nodded slowly, truly interested in what the young girl would say next.

"Thought so - explains a lot. Trust me Spike come home and you'll see the North/South divide is alive and kicking"

Spike burst out laughing "You may only be a little bit, but you know your stuff kid"

Sophie smiled, pleased she had made her point, flopped on to the floor next to Thomas.

"Trust me Blondie - never get Sophie talking football. She'll bore you to death - or would that be dust? - well whatever, you know what I mean" Lisa shrugged.

"Footballs a passion pet - it can hit at any age - so video anyone?" he asked the group, taking a slice of pizza for himself - he didn't fancy grossing the kids out with his mug-o-blood, he'd grab that later.

"Yeah VIDEO'S" Aimie cried from the sofa - blushing at her over enthusiasm, but thankful that the football talk had finished!

< Stupid game, 22 men chasing a ball - why not give them all one and be done with it! >

"K' how about `Pirates of the Caribbean'?" Willow asked, grabbing the video from the pile.

"Good choice luv - love that monkey!" he grinned, stretching out on the floor like a kid. His chin propped on his hands - feet crossed.

Soon after he was joined by Sophie, Thomas and Aimie - they lay there chatting happily, Spike laughing at the monkey every time it graced the screen. Thomas asked Spike if he thought Kiera Knightly was pretty.

"Nah - prefer redheads mate" he grinned.

Thomas nodded "Me too" he blushed.

< Uh huh - kids got a crush on my Willow - shows he's got good taste! >

Aimie, Sophie, Willow and Lisa - who was curled up on HER sofa, were arguing fiercely over who was the cutest out of Johnny Depp and Orlando Bloom - Lisa was the only one backing Orlando, and being very vocal too in his many, in her opinion, attributes!

Twenty minuets later Lisa leant over to Willow and whispered "Are you really a witch?"

"Uh huh - wanna learn a little spell?" she grinned as the young redhead nodded comically - which is how Spike came to be moaning about levitating cushions !

"Bloody hell pet - can you stop smacking me round the head please!" he moaned, not taking his eyes from the screen.

"Sorry Blondie - my bad!" Lisa giggled.

"Should have bleeding known" Spike grumbled as another hit him.

~~~*~~~

After the movie ended - Willow chased everyone off to change for bed.

Thomas made a mad dash for the bathroom, slamming the door in Lisa's face.

 She had to settle for Willow's bedroom with the other two girls, moaning loudly about her lack of privacy.

While they changed Spike and Willow set the room to rights again, clearing away pizza boxes and empty glasses - Spike moaned the whole time he rearranged the pillows - "Silly bint should have to do this -  not me. I'm just a poor defenceless master vampire"

Willow laughed "I think that's an oxymoron Spike?"

"You calling me daft luv" he grinned, wrapping her in his arms - just then a sudden thought hit him.

 "Um pet?"

"Yeah?" Willow sighed.

"Will I be staying here tonight?"

"I hope so - why?" she frowned at his question.

Picking her up suddenly he grinned into her surprised face "Cos I don't have any jammies!"

"Idiot - well I guess your gonna have to improvise. Got any boxers?"

Spike nodded - kissing along her jaw softly.

"There you go then, all fixed" she whispered pulling his lips to hers, her hand snaking round to pitch his butt firmly.

Spike was just deepening the kiss when a disgusted voice behind him had him turning.

"OOO gross - more SNOGGING!" Aimie cried coming out of the bathroom.

Lifting his head he laughed at the sight before him, Willow turned to see what he found so funny and grinned.

"Are you sure you lot are even related?"

Thomas stood there dressed in Spiderman pyjama's, Lisa in a bright pink t-shirt and shorts, Aimie in ripped boxers and a funky t-shirt (obviously Avril has her own brand of nightwear too) and Sophie in last seasons Arsenal kit - complete with football socks.

"Shud up" Lisa yawned, making her way to the sofa.

"Okay pinkie! So beddy bye time everyone" Spike laughed as he left to go to his own apartment and grab some stuff for the sleepover - it also gave him the chance to have his dinner without a chorus of "Ooo Gross!" while he did it.

As the kids settled down, Willow made hot chocolate and was hunting for mini-marshmallows when Spike returned.

"Very sexy!" Sophie laughed on seeing him.

Willow was almost afraid to turn around for fear of what she'd see.

"I'm decent pet - honest" he all but purred in her ear, sending a shiver dancing down her spine, leaning her head back against his chest she whispered "missed you" - wrapping strong arms around her he kissed her neck - "me too - gonna chance looking at my jammies pet?" he grinned in to her neck.

Turning she tried to bite back a laugh - and failed miserably as the sight before her was the last thing she would have ever suspected!

"Where on earth did that ensemble come from - tell me you didn't buy those?" she begged, tears running down her face.

"Xander's - remember when I shrunk all my stuff, he was kind enough to let me keep these - nice of him wasn't it!"

"I take the comment back about Xander liking you - those clothes are hideous!" Willow grinned

Standing before her dressed in Bermuda shorts, the colours of the rainbow- teamed with a ratty t-shirt proclaiming himself a 'SURFER DUDE!".

"Cute - here you go hot chocolate, and Spike? No bedtime stories okay - I want them to sleep" she warned, knowing that all of Spike's stories ended with someone dying horribly - and normally by his hand or fangs!

"Your no fun Red" he told her sadly, sitting amongst the kids on the floor - and launching in a heavily censored story about his time with Angelus, Darla and Dru - but sans blood and MAJOR mayhem.

After the hot chocolate had been drunk (Spike moaned that he had less marshmallows than everyone else) and stories shared - it was finally time for bed.

Willow turned off the main light, leaving only the bathroom light on - so it cast a soft glow over the room. As she turned to go a small voice spoke up from the darkness.

"Willow?" Aimie whispered.

"Yes sweetheart?"

"Spike is gonna stay here tonight isn't he?"

Spike stilled in Willow's doorway, his head tilted in confusion.

< Hope the kid ain't scared of me being here - god only knows the tales she must have heard! >

"Yes he is Aimie - Why?"

"Good - it makes me feel safe knowing he's here - I like him"

< Make her feel safe? - BLIMEY! > Spike thought, hiding in the shadowy doorway.

"Yeah - he's not so bad. For a Man U supporter anyway" Sophie chipped in, yawning loudly.

"Uh- huh, he tells funny stories - he's nothing like he is in Dad's books!" Thomas agreed, his voice already sleepy.

"THANK GOD! Nah Blondie's okay - got a cute butt too, hasn't he Willow?" Lisa giggled from the sofa,

Willow laughed "I agree - now sleep or Giles will not be impressed by sleepy kids tomorrow"

"Night Blondie!" Lisa laughed, knowing full well he was listening from the doorway.

"Night Pinkie - night kids" he whispered softly, hearing sleepy replies he turned to find Willow watching his bemused face, she smiled and pushed him gently into her room - closing the door quietly behind them she turned to him, frowning.

"You okay?"

"Yeah - nice kids ain't they?"

"Yes they are. Come on `Blondie' get that `cute' butt of your to bed"

"Yes ma'm - hey Red I think I'm gonna miss em when they go home" his voice low as he lay down and pulled her into his arms, she rested her head on his chest - feeling safe and loved.

"Me too - you'd make a good daddy though Spike"

"You know I never can be don't you pet?" his tone slightly worried.

"Yeah I know"

"And your okay with that? - not having kids?"

"Yeah - anyway there's enough children on this planet who aren't wanted by their REAL parents, we could adopt or foster some of those. I know they wouldn't be biologically ours but that doesn't mean we'd love them any less does it? - besides living with my parents I know the only thing a child really needs is time, love and understanding - they don't need material junk thrown at them"

Spike kissed the top of her head gently "You're an amazing woman Red, Really think I could be a good daddy?" he whispered.

"The best - there's only one thing you have to remember with Kids Spike - never talk down to them"

"Why's that then Pet?"

"Because if you do, they'll never look up to you" she told him firmly.

Spike hugged her close "I'll remember that - I promise"

"Good - so how are we going to get Angel and Cordelia together. Do you really think we should interfere? Look what happened when Buffy tried that with us?"

"I know Pet - but I've known Angel  a LONG time, and if anyone deserves some happiness it's him - don't you dare tell him I said that. Anyway he told me he went to see the Furies a few weeks ago, they told him they may be able to anchor his soul. I think that's the only thing that's holding him back - Angelus. Anyway are you SURE Cordy has a thing for HIM?" Spike inquired.

Willow nodded "Always had a thing for him, she told me a while back that the first time she had ever seen Angel her exact words were 'Hello salty goodness' - then Buffy came along and POW drama!"

"She would get in the way - So we know they both like each other - no I'd go further than that, I know Angel's falling for her - he's my sire remember I know the signs" he explained as Willow looked up at him.

"I just want them to be happy - but no lies okay, no games! Just gentle nudging - think we can do that Spike?" her voice a little hesitant.

"Think we can do anything if we're together Pet" he whispered, snuggling down contentedly.

"Yeah - anything" Willow replied, her voice drifting off as Spike lovingly ran his fingers up and down her arm.

~Part: 5~

"Willow are you sure this is a good idea?" Spike asked, wincing at the heavy footsteps above his head.

The kids had been upstairs for no more than  ten minutes and in that time he had heard at least three  arguments and a punch up!

"They'll be fine - don't worry it's only for one night. Look you go and call Angel and let him know we'll be late, as in a day or so late. Okay?" Spike nodded and went off in search for the phone.

Dialling slowly he could just imagine Angel's reaction to this new piece of information!

"Hello Angel investigations - we help the helpless! How can we help you?" Cordy asked happily.

"Hi Cordy"

"Spike - you've not left yet?"

"No - not left yet. Can I speak to Broodboy" his tone flat and emotionless.

"Everything okay with you and Willow?" Cordelia asked, concerned at his tone

"Yeah - just  need a quick word with Broody"

"Oh - okay I'll just go get him. Hold on" Cordy put him on hold as she went in search of her boss.

Knowing he was in the basement training, she walked to the door and peered down - the sight below her made her sigh.

 Angel was doing his tai chi.

His body moving slowly through the movements, wearing only black track pants he was a munchable sight.

< Why does he need to do this! - He gets any more chilled and he'll be a Popsicle! -But oh my does he look cute -No Cordelia no lusting after the boss - big dead unfeeling guy remember! - He may be cute and strong and dependable and  - okay a hero - but NO HAPPY! Could you really stand being with him - but never being WITH HIM?>

Cordy knew it didn't matter how many times she had this conversation with herself - she was never going to convince herself that she didn't fancy him like mad - that she didn't love him.

Sighing heavily she called down.

"Angel! - Spike's on the phone - he needs to talk to you!"

Angel looked up and froze, his eyes slipping over her beautiful form - his seer and best friend and now receptionist was a major hottie!

< Or in the words of Doyle - a stiffener all right - No she's your best friend, at this point your only true friend. I mustn't fall for her - I can't risk Angelus again>

Cordy frowned as she saw his features cloud over "Angel?"

"Sorry Cor - on my way" he told her, jogging up the stairs.

Walking across the foyer he turned to the brunette "Did Spike say what he wanted?"

Shaking her head no, she told him "He sounded weird though"

"How could you tell the difference" Angel grinned as he picked up the phone - Cordy's laughter rang out, filling the too quiet hotel with the warmth of her voice.

"Har bloody Har mate" Spike growled down the phone at his sire.

"HI Spike -what's up?"

"Willow and me are gonna be a bit delayed mate" Spike told him.

"Oh why's that?"

Cordelia was perched on the edge of Angel's desk - listening in on his half of the conversation.

Angel's sudden laugh making her jump.

"YOU'RE WHAT!"

Cordy frowned at him. <What on earth's going on now!>?

"Babysitting! YOU!" Angel laughed - motioning for Cordy to come closer so she could hear Spike too - their heads pressed together, the phone separating them.

"Yeah - very funny mate. Calm down or you'll hurt yourself! - we're just helping out the watcher" Spike snapped.

Cordy and Angel grinned at each other, their eyes meeting in merriment.

Both lost in each other's gaze for a moment.

< Wow he's gorgeous, all sweaty and - STOP RIGHT THERE BRAIN! >

< She smells amazing! Like sunshine. Huh, does sunshine smell? >

"OI PEACHES!! - you listening to me!"

Angel and Cordy jumped at Spike's bark.

"Um oh yeah - sorry - so babysitting huh? - So you'll be here in a day or so then? - oh Spike?"

"What?" Spike voice was stony - waiting for more ribbing from his sire.

"Er, will you and um Willow - will you be needing ar."

Cordy rolled her eyes "What his Oafish-ness is trying to splutter is will you and Willow be needing a double room or two singles?"

Spike laughed, imagining his sire's expression.

"DOUBLE!"

"I thought so - really Angel how hard was that!" she huffed, grinning as he shrugged helplessly.

He coughed slightly "Oh so have fun with the kids Spike"

"Yeah right - you too have fun too - oh and Angel?" Spike grinned evilly

< Payback time sire!>

"Yeah?"

"Don't do anything I wouldn't do now! - And Angel remember that thing we were talking about, you know what you told me about Cordy? Well I agree - she is. TOTALLY!" with that Spike hung up the phone - laughing as he imagined Angel's expression.

< Get out of that one POOF!>

Back in L.A Angel's mouth was hanging open - his eyes flicked to Cordy's, she was frowning at him in confusion - having heard ever word of Spike's parting shot!

"So - What? Come on what does he agree with? What have you been saying about me?" she demanded.

Shaking his head dumbly - his mouth opening and closing like a fish -  he finally managed a strangled

"Nothing! Honest!"

Cordy huffed and stalked from the room "When he gets here I'll MAKE him tell me - I'll find out what you've been gossiping about!"

Angel put his head in his hands and planned the many ways he was going to hurt Spike when he got there - Angelus maybe a bad ass, but he had nothing on a love sick Angel.

~~~*~~~

Willow looked up as Spike returned laughing heartily.

< Uh oh - he's annoyed Angel again, but on the plus side he's looking happier! >

"Spike?"

"S'okay pet - just funning with him a little - I would pay a king's ransom to see his face at this moment!"

"What have you done this time?" Willow frowned; worry beginning to nudge at her.

"Nothing drastic - just a comment about the fair Cordelia!"

"Oh no - Spike behave please" she begged, her lips twitching as he continued to chuckle.

"Sorry - but he's just so easy!"

Spike couldn't help it, he collapsed on to sofa - roaring with laughter at the thought of Angel's lame excuse - he knew he should leave the poor guy alone but it was just so much fun screwing with him. If he didn't have the nerve to tell Cordy how he felt then far be it from he ,Spike, to make things easy for him.

"I take it Blondie's upsetting someone else now?" Lisa asked, walking slowly down the stairs with her bag.

"Yup" Spike told her happily.

"Well at least it keeps you off my back" she sniffed, sitting on the couch next to him stiffly.

"Lisa I'm sure once you and Spike get to know each other better you'll become good friends" Willow told the pouting teenager.

"NEVER" Lisa cried looking at Spike with distaste, Spike growled softly "okay that does it - this means war!" he cried jumping on her and beginning to tickle her mercilessly.

Lisa screamed - then screamed even louder with laughter - in the blink of an eye the other kids came barrelling down the stairs - after seeing the scuffle on the couch they looked at each other and grinned - before diving in to battle head first.

Willow stood back in shock - arms and legs stuck out from every angle on the couch!

"Spike!" she cried as she saw him begin to attack Aimie next - Lisa took the diversion to grab a cushion and bash him over the head.

"OW!" he bellowed

Giles put his head around the door once when the noise had begun, seeing the chaos he then retreated back to his packing with a mumbled "Bloody hell"

Willow didn't know what else to do - so she sat and watched the fun -  shrieks and laughter filled the room, it seemed that Sophie had found a particularly ticklish part of Spike anatomy - his RIBS!

"Arrgghh stop please!!" he cried - trying in vain to wriggle away - but to no avail - four sets of arms and legs kept him prisoner.

"We'll only stop if you sing for us!" Lisa told him, tickling his neck.

"Anything" Spike cried.

< I swear these kids are part demon!>

Which is how 15 minutes later Willow found herself walking through Sunnydale with four kids and a singing bleached blonde vampire!

Thomas perched happily on Spike's shoulders while he sang loudly - and kinda in tune!

"She's got a lip ring and 5 colours in her hair,
Not into fashion but I love the clothes she wears,
Her tattoo's always hidden by her underwear.
She don't care.

Everybody wants to know her name,
I threw a house party and she came
Everyone asked me
Who the hell is she?
That weirdo with 5 colours in her hair.

She's just a loner with a sexy attitude,
I'd like to phone her cos she puts me in the mood.
The rumours spreading round that she cooks in the nude.
She don't care.

Everybody wants to know her name,
How does she cope with her new found fame?
Everyone asks me,
Who the hell is she?
That weirdo with 5 colours in her hair.

She was all I thought about,
The girl I couldn't live without.
But then she went insane,
She couldn't take the fame
She said I was the blame
She'd had enough
And shaved five colours off
And now she's just a weirdo with no name.

Everybody wants to know her name.
How does she cope with her new found fame?
Everyone asks me,
Who the hell is she,
That weirdo with 5 colours in her hair.

Do do do do do doo"

By the end of the song the whole group was singing - and getting some very funny looks from passers by.

It wasn't often you saw people happy in Sunnydale!

Willow couldn't have been happier - the kid's infectious humour had rubbed off on Spike and he was now trading songs with them as they walked slowly to her apartment - thankful that the sun had set so they didn't have to travel by the tunnels.

First the kids treated him to `That's what I go to school for' by Busted.

Too which Spike counted with a rousing rendition of  "My way" by the Sex Pistols.

Willow couldn't remember the last time she'd laughed so much, Spike twirled her around as they crossed the park - planting soft kisses as she spun by.

Once inside the apartment the chaos began again as Willow tried in vain to bring about some order - but Spike had by now started singing `old Londoner songs' which the kids loved - as these they knew!

"Maybe it's because I'm a Londoner that I love London so - maybe it's because I'm a Londoner that I think of her wherever I go. I get a funny feeling inside of me just walking up and down - oh maybe it's because I'm a Londoner that I love LONDON TOWN" the five cockneys sung proudly.

Willow clapped and cheered as they took their bows, grinning at their shared heritage - all be it a few centuries out of sync.

Finally agreeing the sing-a-long was officially over - the more serious issues of who was sleeping where began.

Lisa snagged the sofa leaving the younger three to sleep on the floor - once that was sorted out, much to the disgust of Sophie who had tried to get to the sofa first but had ended up in a heap after tripping over Spike's boot.

The next round of arguments began over what to have for dinner, closely followed by Spike spotting Aimie trying to sneak her C.D on to Willow's stereo system.

After that calamity was diverted Willow sent Spike and Sophie out for pizza, anything to keep the sisters apart for a while - the sofa issue kept raising its ugly head.

While they were gone Willow and the remaining kids set up the beds for the night, happy that the kids had sleeping bags with them.

By the time Spike opened the door to Willow's apartment it looked like a slumber party had blown up - not that he noticed, he was too busy shouting - again!

"ARSENAL!"

"Spike - language please" Willow begged, sighing heavily as she saw Sophie walk in behind him, loaded down with pizza's.

"No pet - you got the wrong end of the stick. It's an English football - um I mean soccer - team" Spike assured, gesturing wildly. This explained why Sophie was carrying the pizzas.

"Oh no - here we go" Thomas muttered, grabbing a slice of pizza from the nearest box and flopping down on the floor with it.

"So who do you support then? - Millwall? Chelsea? Spurs? Wimbledon? -  you look like a Wimbledon supporter, complete nutters they are!" Sophie asked, eyeing him enquiringly.

"Manchester United!" he told her proudly, puffing out his chest with pride and grinning - her next comment quickly wiped that from his face.

"Huh? I thought you liked FOOTBALL" she sniffed, not impressed one bit with his choice.

It took a moment for Spike to process her remark but once he had, he glared at the little girl menacingly.

"OI - just cos this season has been a bit ropey don't count us out!" he fumed.

Sophie merely shook her head in a pitying kind of way "Never counted you in - MATE - got rid of Beckham, killed your team. Plus ain't you meant to be a Londoner?"

"Yeah - So?" Spike frowned.

"Well any self respecting Southerner despises Man - U, must have been away awhile huh?" Sophie asked, pulling her slice of pizza apart as she spoke.

Spike nodded slowly, truly interested in what the young girl would say next.

"Thought so - explains a lot. Trust me Spike come home and you'll see the North/South divide is alive and kicking"

Spike burst out laughing "You may only be a little bit, but you know your stuff kid"

Sophie smiled, pleased she had made her point, flopped on to the floor next to Thomas.

"Trust me Blondie - never get Sophie talking football. She'll bore you to death - or would that be dust? - well whatever, you know what I mean" Lisa shrugged.

"Footballs a passion pet - it can hit at any age - so video anyone?" he asked the group, taking a slice of pizza for himself - he didn't fancy grossing the kids out with his mug-o-blood, he'd grab that later.

"Yeah VIDEO'S" Aimie cried from the sofa - blushing at her over enthusiasm, but thankful that the football talk had finished!

< Stupid game, 22 men chasing a ball - why not give them all one and be done with it! >

"K' how about `Pirates of the Caribbean'?" Willow asked, grabbing the video from the pile.

"Good choice luv - love that monkey!" he grinned, stretching out on the floor like a kid. His chin propped on his hands - feet crossed.

Soon after he was joined by Sophie, Thomas and Aimie - they lay there chatting happily, Spike laughing at the monkey every time it graced the screen. Thomas asked Spike if he thought Kiera Knightly was pretty.

"Nah - prefer redheads mate" he grinned.

Thomas nodded "Me too" he blushed.

< Uh huh - kids got a crush on my Willow - shows he's got good taste! >

Aimie, Sophie, Willow and Lisa - who was curled up on HER sofa, were arguing fiercely over who was the cutest out of Johnny Depp and Orlando Bloom - Lisa was the only one backing Orlando, and being very vocal too in his many, in her opinion, attributes!

Twenty minuets later Lisa leant over to Willow and whispered "Are you really a witch?"

"Uh huh - wanna learn a little spell?" she grinned as the young redhead nodded comically - which is how Spike came to be moaning about levitating cushions !

"Bloody hell pet - can you stop smacking me round the head please!" he moaned, not taking his eyes from the screen.

"Sorry Blondie - my bad!" Lisa giggled.

"Should have bleeding known" Spike grumbled as another hit him.

~~~*~~~

After the movie ended - Willow chased everyone off to change for bed.

Thomas made a mad dash for the bathroom, slamming the door in Lisa's face.

 She had to settle for Willow's bedroom with the other two girls, moaning loudly about her lack of privacy.

While they changed Spike and Willow set the room to rights again, clearing away pizza boxes and empty glasses - Spike moaned the whole time he rearranged the pillows - "Silly bint should have to do this -  not me. I'm just a poor defenceless master vampire"

Willow laughed "I think that's an oxymoron Spike?"

"You calling me daft luv" he grinned, wrapping her in his arms - just then a sudden thought hit him.

 "Um pet?"

"Yeah?" Willow sighed.

"Will I be staying here tonight?"

"I hope so - why?" she frowned at his question.

Picking her up suddenly he grinned into her surprised face "Cos I don't have any jammies!"

"Idiot - well I guess your gonna have to improvise. Got any boxers?"

Spike nodded - kissing along her jaw softly.

"There you go then, all fixed" she whispered pulling his lips to hers, her hand snaking round to pitch his butt firmly.

Spike was just deepening the kiss when a disgusted voice behind him had him turning.

"OOO gross - more SNOGGING!" Aimie cried coming out of the bathroom.

Lifting his head he laughed at the sight before him, Willow turned to see what he found so funny and grinned.

"Are you sure you lot are even related?"

Thomas stood there dressed in Spiderman pyjama's, Lisa in a bright pink t-shirt and shorts, Aimie in ripped boxers and a funky t-shirt (obviously Avril has her own brand of nightwear too) and Sophie in last seasons Arsenal kit - complete with football socks.

"Shud up" Lisa yawned, making her way to the sofa.

"Okay pinkie! So beddy bye time everyone" Spike laughed as he left to go to his own apartment and grab some stuff for the sleepover - it also gave him the chance to have his dinner without a chorus of "Ooo Gross!" while he did it.

As the kids settled down, Willow made hot chocolate and was hunting for mini-marshmallows when Spike returned.

"Very sexy!" Sophie laughed on seeing him.

Willow was almost afraid to turn around for fear of what she'd see.

"I'm decent pet - honest" he all but purred in her ear, sending a shiver dancing down her spine, leaning her head back against his chest she whispered "missed you" - wrapping strong arms around her he kissed her neck - "me too - gonna chance looking at my jammies pet?" he grinned in to her neck.

Turning she tried to bite back a laugh - and failed miserably as the sight before her was the last thing she would have ever suspected!

"Where on earth did that ensemble come from - tell me you didn't buy those?" she begged, tears running down her face.

"Xander's - remember when I shrunk all my stuff, he was kind enough to let me keep these - nice of him wasn't it!"

"I take the comment back about Xander liking you - those clothes are hideous!" Willow grinned

Standing before her dressed in Bermuda shorts, the colours of the rainbow- teamed with a ratty t-shirt proclaiming himself a 'SURFER DUDE!".

"Cute - here you go hot chocolate, and Spike? No bedtime stories okay - I want them to sleep" she warned, knowing that all of Spike's stories ended with someone dying horribly - and normally by his hand or fangs!

"Your no fun Red" he told her sadly, sitting amongst the kids on the floor - and launching in a heavily censored story about his time with Angelus, Darla and Dru - but sans blood and MAJOR mayhem.

After the hot chocolate had been drunk (Spike moaned that he had less marshmallows than everyone else) and stories shared - it was finally time for bed.

Willow turned off the main light, leaving only the bathroom light on - so it cast a soft glow over the room. As she turned to go a small voice spoke up from the darkness.

"Willow?" Aimie whispered.

"Yes sweetheart?"

"Spike is gonna stay here tonight isn't he?"

Spike stilled in Willow's doorway, his head tilted in confusion.

< Hope the kid ain't scared of me being here - god only knows the tales she must have heard! >

"Yes he is Aimie - Why?"

"Good - it makes me feel safe knowing he's here - I like him"

< Make her feel safe? - BLIMEY! > Spike thought, hiding in the shadowy doorway.

"Yeah - he's not so bad. For a Man U supporter anyway" Sophie chipped in, yawning loudly.

"Uh- huh, he tells funny stories - he's nothing like he is in Dad's books!" Thomas agreed, his voice already sleepy.

"THANK GOD! Nah Blondie's okay - got a cute butt too, hasn't he Willow?" Lisa giggled from the sofa,

Willow laughed "I agree - now sleep or Giles will not be impressed by sleepy kids tomorrow"

"Night Blondie!" Lisa laughed, knowing full well he was listening from the doorway.

"Night Pinkie - night kids" he whispered softly, hearing sleepy replies he turned to find Willow watching his bemused face, she smiled and pushed him gently into her room - closing the door quietly behind them she turned to him, frowning.

"You okay?"

"Yeah - nice kids ain't they?"

"Yes they are. Come on `Blondie' get that `cute' butt of your to bed"

"Yes ma'm - hey Red I think I'm gonna miss em when they go home" his voice low as he lay down and pulled her into his arms, she rested her head on his chest - feeling safe and loved.

"Me too - you'd make a good daddy though Spike"

"You know I never can be don't you pet?" his tone slightly worried.

"Yeah I know"

"And your okay with that? - not having kids?"

"Yeah - anyway there's enough children on this planet who aren't wanted by their REAL parents, we could adopt or foster some of those. I know they wouldn't be biologically ours but that doesn't mean we'd love them any less does it? - besides living with my parents I know the only thing a child really needs is time, love and understanding - they don't need material junk thrown at them"

Spike kissed the top of her head gently "You're an amazing woman Red, Really think I could be a good daddy?" he whispered.

"The best - there's only one thing you have to remember with Kids Spike - never talk down to them"

"Why's that then Pet?"

"Because if you do, they'll never look up to you" she told him firmly.

Spike hugged her close "I'll remember that - I promise"

"Good - so how are we going to get Angel and Cordelia together. Do you really think we should interfere? Look what happened when Buffy tried that with us?"

"I know Pet - but I've known Angel  a LONG time, and if anyone deserves some happiness it's him - don't you dare tell him I said that. Anyway he told me he went to see the Furies a few weeks ago, they told him they may be able to anchor his soul. I think that's the only thing that's holding him back - Angelus. Anyway are you SURE Cordy has a thing for HIM?" Spike inquired.

Willow nodded "Always had a thing for him, she told me a while back that the first time she had ever seen Angel her exact words were 'Hello salty goodness' - then Buffy came along and POW drama!"

"She would get in the way - So we know they both like each other - no I'd go further than that, I know Angel's falling for her - he's my sire remember I know the signs" he explained as Willow looked up at him.

"I just want them to be happy - but no lies okay, no games! Just gentle nudging - think we can do that Spike?" her voice a little hesitant.

"Think we can do anything if we're together Pet" he whispered, snuggling down contentedly.

"Yeah - anything" Willow replied, her voice drifting off as Spike lovingly ran his fingers up and down her arm.

~Part: 6~

"Morning Blondie!" Lisa called as Spike stumbled out of Willow's room, early the next morning.

"Shud up - Awww shit!"  he groaned, falling over various shoes, bags and clothes lying about all over the lounge floor.

"We've been up hours" Sophie told him, making an `eww' face as he heated up his mug-o-blood.

"And don't I know it!- Noisy bloody lot" grumbling he plonked himself on the sofa next to Aimie - peeking in his cup she screwed up her nose and moved a bit further away.

"So where's Red?"

"Shower" Thomas mumbled around a spoonful of Weetabix.

Spike looked at the kids lounging around the room - grinning as Lisa batted Sophie around the head with a floating pillow.

"OI! Stop that or I'll tell Giles you fancy him!" Sophie shouted, ducking as another pillow flew.

"You wouldn't dare - anyway if you do I'm gonna tell that ugly kid in your class you fancy him!"

Sophie frowned "But I don't"

Lisa grinned evilly at her younger sister "He doesn't know that does he!" - then shouted as her sister landed on her, small fist flying and the air turning a rapid shade of blue!

"OI ENOUGH!! SOPHIE WHERE THE BLOODY HELL YOU LEARN LANGUAGE LIKE THAT?" Spike was shocked.

Aimie grinned at him "Trust me Spike this is a clean fight compared with some of there's"

Spike sighed as the fighting girls parted and sat back down - trying to change the subject he burst out suddenly.

"So anyone heard form the watcher?"

"Trying to get rid of us?" Aimie grinned - seeing Spike groan as Lisa huffed at his question.

"How'd you guess little bit"

"Nice! - Yeah Giles called this morning. Our parents are gonna be back in a day or so. CALM DOWN SPIKE! Giles is gonna be back in a few hours - we'll be going back to his today" Sophie laughed at the terrified expression on the vampire's face.

"Oh - so you'll be going then?" disappointment in his tone as he looked around the cheerful faces of the kids.

"Uh huh. Miss us will you?" Lisa asked, her eyes flicking to his - a little disappointed herself to be leaving the couple so soon.

< Not bad for a vamp - and Willow's fun. Gonna drive Sophie nuts with that spell! >

Deciding to tell the truth he grinned "Yeah - your not a bad bunch. When your not fighting, attacking me or playing that bloody song"

"So when we're sleeping huh?" Thomas laughed - poking out his tongue at his sister's frown.

Spike laughed "Yup - so what we watching?" snuggling back on the sofa.

 Frowning at the TV he tried to figure out why six kids were dressed in spandex and crash helmets, and talking to a talking guinea pig!

" Don't look so worried it's just `Power Rangers' - anyway this will be finished in a minute and then we have `Sponge Bob Square Pants' - it's much better than this" Lisa explained airily.

Now Spike was completely confused - sitting forward he peered at the screen, as if they may help - turning to the kids and asked in a slightly worried tone "What the hell is a Sponge bob? A demon?"

Willow could hear the laughter carry through the bathroom door, smiling as she heard Spike roar with laughter over something one of the kids said.

< You're a lucky girl Willow >

Just than a sudden wave of dizziness hit her, she sat on the edge of the tub quickly - gripping the edges until it passed.

< Okay - not so much fun. Must be the sugar shock from last night  > her clever mind rationalized.

Waiting until the feeling passed she walked into the lounge - to discover Spike being given the complete history of 'Sponge Bob Square Pants'

{He lives in a pineapple under the sea - SPONGEBOB SQUAREPANTS!  Who`s absorbent and yellow and porous as he! If nautical nonsense be something you wish,  then drop on the deck and flop like a fish}

Spike sang loudly to his delighted audience.

Willow clapped loudly causing him to spin round and grin - he jumped up and picking her up in a huge hug - kissed her deeply.

Four pairs of young eyes watched - the girls sighed at the cuteness of the couple, While Thomas envied Spike down to his very soul.

The boy may have liked the vampire - but that didn't mean he was giving up on his crush anytime soon.

Drawing pack - Spike grinned in to her flushed face "Morning Red - caught me" he laughed.

"Seems so - well Kids" she announced, turning to their audience "Your going back to Giles's  in a couple of hours so I guess we should clean up and get going huh?"

The kids nodded, Thomas turning the TV off reluctantly while the girls tided away the breakfast dishes, once the kids were occupied Spike pulled Willow to him again.

"So I guess we'll be making tracks to L.A once the midgets have gone to watcher boys then huh?"

"Yup - I'll go pack - and can I please beg of you to try and be nice to Angel while we're there - for me?"

Spike kissed her softly "Anything for you pet - well I better go pack to. And change! Angel will think I've gone nuts if I turn up in this outfit!"

Laughing Willow turned to see the kids having a minor scuffle "HEY! Right you go change and pack - then we'll get going. I can't wait to see Cordy and Angel again, it seems like it's been forever!"

Spike nodded in agreement before kissing her softly and leaving for his own apartment.

"Come on troops! Time to change and try and find the floor in this place!" Willow joked as she helped put everything away.

In what seemed like no time at all everyone was clean, changed and ready to go, Spike walked back in - a large holdall over his shoulder.

"We all ready?"

As five heads nodded - he sighed and opened the door, ushering them all out.

< Gonna miss these kids >

~~~*~~~

The trip back to Giles's was through the tunnels - due to the pesky sunlight.

The kids thought it was great fun - that was all except Lisa who complained LOUDLY that the -

"Grossness of this place is gonna ruin my new boots"

Which is why she made the trip back by piggyback, courtesy of Spike.

Having discovered the tunnels had amazing acoustics she couldn't resist!

{She's got a lip ring and 5 colours in her hair, Not into fashion but I love the clothes she wears, Her tattoo's always hidden by her underwear. She don't care}

"Awww Pet - don't you know anything else?"

"Any requests Blondie?" Lisa grinned - loving the not walking part of the excursion.

"How about the `Sound Of Silence' I like that!" Spike grinned as Willow laughed.

"Nah that's boring! - I know!"

{We don't need no education
We don't need no thought control
No dark sarcasm in the classroom
Teachers leave them kids alone
Hey! Teachers! Leave them kids alone!
All in all it's just another brick in the wall.
All in all you're just another brick in the wall}.

"Now that's music! Can't beat a bit of `Pink Floyd' - sing up Pinkie!"

~~~*~~~

"So had fun did you?" Giles asked the assembled group upon their return.

"Yeah! Spike sang, Lisa learnt a SPELL, we had pizza watched videos and Willow makes great hot chocolate" Aimie told him excitedly.

"Spike SANG?" Giles frowned in the squirming vampires direction.

"Don't ask - only way I could get them to stop attacking me"

"Oh I see - under duress"

"He wasn't wearing a dress!" Thomas told the ex-watcher indignantly, surprised when Spike laughed outright at his comment.

"Quite right mate! So they promised to behave but if you believe that you'll believe anything" Spike explained to the grinning watcher - who's smile began to fade as he realised he was about to be left alone with the - - Children.

"Your leaving right away - but it's daylight?"

"Well Spike put that new sun-proof glass in his car - so we can drive in the daytime now" Willow explained happily - she could hardly contain her excitement over seeing Angel and Cordy again.

"I didn't like doing it to my Desoto - but Red didn't like the spray paint look"

"Quite" Giles frowned, then smiled as Willow and Spike said their goodbyes.

Spike was more than a little surprised when he received a solemn handshake from Thomas and a kiss on the cheek from each of the girls - including Lisa!

 Who pinched his bum for good measure.

"HEY! HANDS!" Spike cried - shocked at the girls antics.

She merely winked and giggled, nudging her sister at Thomas's red face from his kiss from Willow.

Willow looked up at Spike's cry "What's up Spike - Lisa attacking you again?"

"In a way Red - in a way" rubbing the injured spot on his butt - grinning slightly at the youngster.

All too soon - for Giles's liking - they were gone.

~~~*~~~

Spike drove carefully, knowing that Willow was bound to be a nervous passenger since the accident.

"Giles's told me the kids will be back to visit at Christmas - we'll have to visit when they are"

"I'd like that Pet, only a couple of months away"

The rest of the journey sped by and within a few hours they were pulling up outside the `Hyberion'

Spike looked up at the huge hotel "Blimey! Don't think he's gonna have trouble find us a bed do you pet?"

Willow laughed and watched as Spike made a mad dash for the door - climbing slowly from the car another spate of dizziness came over her, this time accompanied by a sharp pain in her abdomen - thinking it was due to the travelling she entered the hotel.

As soon as she saw Angel and Cordy the pain disappeared from her mind.

Cordy ran across the foyer, enveloping her in a big hug - pulling back she stared into her friends face, her hands cupping her face.

"We were so worried - Spike kept us informed on how you were. We wanted to visit, we really did but the `Big Bads' just keep coming and we couldn't get away - you understand right?"

Willow nodded and returned the girls hug - then crossed to Angel and hugged him too - she heard Spike growl and looked up at him surprised.

"Down boy" Angel grinned.

"Need to get yourself a bird mate - that's if there's anyone daft enough to have you!"

Willow just shook her head at Spikes comment.

< Obvious much! >

"Oh YEAH!" , Cordy marched across the room - grabbed Spike by the ear and dragged him into Angel's office - with sweet "Excuse us a moment" before slamming the door.

Spike hadn't had time to react to Cordy's attack - and Willow could hear them both shouting.

"What was all that all about?" Willow asked a grinning Angel.

"She seems to think I've been talking about her to Spike. It's his own fault, He was winding her up on the phone - paybacks a bitch!" he grinned  as he heard Cordy's voice rise in volume.

Willow looked towards the closed door and grinned as a slew of British swearwords filled the air.

 "And they don't get much bitchier than Cordy do they?" she grinned as Angel winced at the noise.

Turning - his face suddenly serious, explained to the grinning redhead  "She's changed a lot. The visions I think - they take a lot out of her. She's not the same Cordy you knew in Sunnydale - she's um grown up I think. It happened around the time that demon made her feel all the suffering in the city. Since then her whole attitudes changed, she doesn't go out with her friends, date anything"

"You like her don't you?"

{ IT WAS A BLOODY JOKE! - OI DON'T YOU DARE! OW! STOP THROWING THINGS! }

Angel and Willow looked at each other, trying to fight laughter at the sound of chaos erupting from behind the heavy oak door.

Suddenly realising what Willow said he frowned "Huh? - oh of course I like her. Her vision are invaluable to my work"

"So that's the reason you put up with her? - the visions?"

"NO! - I mean I don't `put up with her' - she's a friend, a good friend - a good woman" his voice growing soft as he thought of his seer.

"GOOD TO HEAR! - call her off Brood boy!" Spike muttered following a livid Cordy from the office, rubbing an area of his head that a book had connected with.

"I believe him - come on I'll show you to your room and then...ARGH" the brunette cried, holding her head she fell towards the ground - she didn't hit it though, Angel ran and caught her in mid air - as he had done so many time before.

"Cordy? Come on you okay? Talk to me please" Angel crooned - holding the girl tight, her sobs making his heart ache for the pain she went through for him, because of him.

Willow and Spike stood in stunned silence watching Angel hold Cordy, Spike wrapped strong fingers around the witch's hand - giving her comfort - seeing her friend in so much pain was a shock for Willow.

 She knew about the visions, Cordy had told her they hurt - but now she had seen the girl experience one it made them real all of a sudden.

"Cordy?" Willows voice was small in the foyer - Cordelia raised her head and saw her friends scared face.

"I'm fine Will - Angel? There's a young girl in an alley, near Caritas - big, blue demony thing. It's near a beauty parlour called `Happy Thoughts'  - Well GO!" she told him - he looked so worried that she couldn't bare to look at him - could bare to see the pity and fear in his eyes.

< Go Angel - so I can crawl in a dark place and wait for these bombs to stop exploding in my brain - don't want you too see me like this >

"Cordy?" he had seen the pain in her eyes - slowly reaching a hand towards her he paused - looking at Spike he growled.

"Feel like a fight Childe?" the slight Irish brogue making his voice lilt on the last word.

"Always! Be back soon Red" kissing Willow softly he pulled back and whispered "Better look after the cheerleader - she looks done in"

Willow nodded, watching as the two strong vampire walked away - then called out.

"Spike?"

"Yeah Pet?"

"Be careful - I love you" a faint blush creeping up her cheeks as Angel smiled slightly.

Spike grinned at his Sire "She loves me" he told him proudly, then turning to Willow called back "Always careful - LOVE YOU TOO!"

And with that they were gone, leaving the two young women watching them, Cordy sighed wishing she could say those words to Angel.

< Just imagine his reaction if I did `yeah love you too - what would I do without my link to the PTB!' >

Willow turned to her friend  - "Come on let's go make you some tea"

Cordy nodded, half walking and half stumbling to her desk "And a truck load of Aspirins"

Willow smiled at her, setting about making the tea she turned and considered Cordy's pale complexion.

"Are you okay?"

Cordy looked up at the redhead and tried to smile, she was getting good at hiding her feelings - the pain the visions caused were horrific - the sight, sound, emotions - not to mention the SMELLS of the visions were slowly changing the once bubbly carefree girl.

"I won't lie Willow - I've felt better. I would have thought I'd have been used to those things by now - but every time is like the first time" accepting the Aspirins and glass of water that Willow had brought over to her.

"I know I'm helping people and I save lives - but it feels like every time a vision hits a piece of mine gets taken away"

Willow nodded, placing the tea in front of her she sat - Cordy closed her eyes and breathed in the sweet scent of the drink, not realising she was being closely watched by a worried Redhead.

< She doesn't seem like the same old Cordy - in Sunnydale she was different, sparkly almost here she seems so. ordinary, normal? >

Studying her friend, it was odd to think of Cordy as a friend - they had been enemies for so long in high school, but since her move to L.A they had begun chatting by E-mail or phone two or three times a week - and unbelievably a strong friendship had emerged.

"Feel any better?"

Cordy nodded "A little - so tell me about you and Spike. I saw that kiss as he left. HUBBA HUBBA. You really love him don't you?"

Willow smiled "Yeah, he's so sweet and kind and - okay vampire - but I love him. Was Angel okay about it? About us?"

"In a nutshell? No, but once Buffy had explained how happy you were together, before the accident at least, he came around. He even told me that Spike doesn't fall in love easily but when he does it's completely" the brunette replied, smiling as a huge grin plastered itself over Willows features.

"That's good to know - he doesn't know how you feel about him does he?" deciding the blunt talk was the best route to go.

"Who?" Cordy frowned.

"Come on - your not dumb"

"Okay - no he doesn't. Although I think it's for the best - I could never have the type of relationship Buffy had with him. I mean to be with him - but not"

Willow considered this for a moment and then asked "So you just want his body? All your feelings are of the lusty variety?"

"NO - look Will it's gonna get between us one day, we're both adults and in those relationships you can't rely on a fumble in a janitors closet to quench your needs - you know that"

Willow nodded - praying that what Spike told her about the furies were true, that they could anchor Angel's soul. These two people deserved some happiness.

They sat in silence, sipping tea and thinking of their undead loves. One who on his return would sweep in and kiss `his' girl senseless - for the simple reason he could and she was there.

The other would stroll in and hand his `girl' a demon  encrusted sword - because he felt he had nothing else to give.

~~~*~~~

All the way across town Spike and Angel were bickering - as usual.

"I told you Spike, I'm not running a red light!"

"Bloody poof - this is an Emergency! Would have thought the cops would be happy to have your help!"

"Oh yeah right! I can just imagine their reaction to `sorry I broke the law officer, but you see my beautiful seer had a vision of a demon snacking on a girl - next to a DEMON KAROKE BAR' damn it boy THINK!"

"So you think she's beautiful huh?"

"What?" by now Angel was lost in the conversation - and starting to get a headache.

"The cheerleader! -you just called her your beautiful seer. Why ain't you claimed her yet?" Spike frowned at the older vamp.

"Damn it Spike" he growled he'd forgotten just how observant his childe was.

"Come on. why?" leaping from the car as it stopped - his eyes on Angel as he did so.

"Angelus" his voice all but a whisper.

"What about him! You said the Furies could fix you?"

"I said they MIGHT - if my loves pure. I love her but my intentions are hardly pure"

Spike rolled his eyes "YOU DAFT GIT - just cos you wanna shag the bint don't mean you love her any less does it?"

"Spike" Angel warned - his tone low his eyes flashing yellow with anger.

Sighing Angel rounded the car and grabbed a couple of axes from the trunk - handing one to Spike he told him "I'll wait and talk to the furies - see what they have to say"

Snorting Spike laughed "Oh yeah - those chicks are really gonna wanna help you get some OTHER bird - they've always been mad about you - the whole `Ooo Angel' makes me want to heave"

Angel just shook his head and walked down the alley - he could hear Spike marching down behind him - sniffing for the demons scent.

When suddenly Spike told him softly "I nearly lost Willow - that made me realise right quick what I felt for her. I didn't give a damn about the sex or any of that, just couldn't stand the thought of her not talking to me, or laughing at me taking the piss out of the slayer, or the way she'd hide in my coat if we watched a scary movie - used to be right funny seeing her do that, all the crap we faced and a bloody doll called `Chucky' would freak her out - let me get a cuddle though" he grinned at the memory then his face clouded as Angel turned to look at him.

"I don't know what I would have done if she hadn't forgiven me - still would have loved her though. See Angel I think that what `Pure' love is - what you feel doesn't necessarily have to be returned, just accepted"

Angel paused, looking at his young childe it struck him how wise he had got to be during his stay in Sunnydale.

"Maybe your right"

"Always am - er Angel?"

"Yeah?"

"Think that ugly blue demony thing right there - is the same ugly blue demony thing Cordy was on about?"

Angel growled, spotting the demon ahead - advancing on a young girl "Lets go ask"

The men fought wildly side-by-side - using tricks and moves they hadn't used in decades, even centuries.

Very soon the demon was killed and they stood grinning at each other - the girl had run as soon as they had appeared.

"Know what Spike?"

"What?"

"Think I've missed having you about"

"Yeah - forgot how much fun it was fighting with you at my side. OI! Look at my COAT! these bloody entrails better not damage the leather!" huffing he stormed off.

"And he calls me a poof!" Angel grumbled, following Spike back to the car - and ultimately back to their `Girls'.

~~~*~~~

Willow was getting worried - they hadn't been gone all that long, but she still worried Spike would get hurt - and Angel of course!

The dizziness she'd been fighting on and off had returned, and brought a migraine to keep it company - not wanting to worry Cordy she told the girl she was a little tired from the travelling and begged off the gossip and pizza session - instead falling into bed and  trying to nap the pain away.

< Wonder what the hells going on - thought I was all fixed. I guess it could be some residual trauma from the accident, have to ask the Doc when I go for my check up >

Laying back in the bed,  sleep was not forthcoming and she found her mind drifting to her friends dilemma - Loving a man so completely that you suffered brain numbing visions and daily attacks by the underworld just to be at his side but also knowing if he ever really `loved' you then a homicidal maniac would emerge and take his place.

< Talk about the morning after the night before! I don't envy you this situation Cordelia - I know Spike is only `tame' because of the chip, and the sex is GREAT but he always seemed to have more heart and capacity to love than Angelus >

At that moment the object of her desire opened the door of their room slowly, quickly closing her eyes she feigned sleep - she could hear him stumbling around the room - muttering about

`Bloody entrails! gonna give him the poxy cleaning bill!'

 He didn't turn on the light for fear of waking her. Willow almost laughed when she heard a soft thud.

 < Ouch! He stumbled his toe >

The muttering that followed clearly painted what Spike thought of the chair legs parentage.

Willow bit her lip from giggling that was until he climbed into bed beside her - pulling her gently into his arms, curling around her - she gasped as their bodies connected, he still thought she was sleeping when he whispered in her ear "Night Red Pet - Love you always"

"Love you too Spike" she returned, laughing as he flipped her over, glaring down at her - amusement dancing in his eyes at her happy smile.

"Your awake" growling softly he nuzzled her neck.

"Yup - HI !"

"Hi yourself! I stubbed my bloody toe tiptoeing about!" he grumbled, which changed to a purr as she ran a soft hand down his back.

"Feeling tired pet?" he waggled his eyebrows - slapping his arm gently she shook her head.

"So your feeling okay?" his voice held a touch of hope - Willow smiled and pressed her lips to his.

"You're here - I feel better than okay" sighing as he kissed her hungrily.

~~~*~~~

"He loves her ya know" Spike told Willow a long time later - winding a tendril of fiery hair around his finger absently.

"She loves him too -she's just scared of letting Angelus free. Any news on the furies?"

"Angel's gonna go see them tomorrow - don't know how much they'll wanna help though. They always had a `thing' for Angel or Angelus! - silly bints!!. Sleepy pet?" he asked grinning a little as Willow tried to stifle a huge yawn.

"Afraid so"

Spike shrugged his shoulders "That's okay - we got all the time in the world. Just want you to get better" he explained tugging her close as he kissed her shoulder.

Spike looked at the young girl laying in his arms - thanking whichever god had allowed to get to know and eventually love this goddess - he decided he must have done something right in his years before becoming a vampire and Willow was his prize.

< Looks a little pale though - thought the doc's said she just needed time and rest - okay so I ain't let her `rest' that much, still she should be getting better by now. Thought she just busted some bones? >

Spike watched her long into the night, with the full knowledge that Willow would have hated the thought of him watching her sleep.

< Not like I'm gonna tell her though is it! >

~~~*~~~

Angel, on the other hand, was laying in large empty bed alone - his mind fixed on the following day.

< If I go see the furies and they say they can't do it - what then? > he mused - leaning against the headboard.

< But what if they can - I can tell her! Finally explain! >

Angel flopped back against the pillows knowing that this time tomorrow he would know! One way or the other - he would know.

Angel had been alone a long time - his 3 years in Sunnydale didn't count, they were more tortured than happy.

Maybe he didn't deserve to be happy - but then Spike didn't either and he and Willow were content.

< Yes but Spike doesn't have a pesky soul to feel guilt with does he >

< No - but Spike didn't eat a Gypsy girl did he! >

Angel knew he had to atone for the many crimes in his life - but he didn't know how he was meant to help any more than he was already doing. And Cordy had nothing to atone for and the PTB's had still given her the visions after Doyle died.

< Just wait until tomorrow - there's nothing you can do now >

With those thoughts bouncing in his mind he drifted into a contented sleep - a dream where he and Cordy were together, really together and he felt so free - so happy just knowing he didn't have to fear telling how he really felt.

~~~*~~~

Downtown, Cordy entered her silent apartment.

As soon as she stepped through the doors the lights flicked on - as usual - smiling she called out "Thanks Dennis"

The only response was the lamp by the couch flicking on and off.

Dropping her bag on the floor - Cordy stretched. Her head still held the rough edges of the headache hanging around, grabbing a bottle of pills she walked into the kitchen for a drink - taking a bottle of water from the refrigerator she called out again.

"Dennis? Would you mind running me a bath? We had a lousy demon attack and my head is thumping" by the time she had finished talking she could hear water running in the bathroom and the soft smell of lavender filled the apartment.

"Hey - you know what Dennis it's great having a aromatherapy ghost as a roommate!" wishing he could reply - she knew she wasn't really alone but the silence made her feel lonely anyway.

Her apartment had become more and more like a hotel lately, she was there so rarely.

< Which is ironic because the hotel is like HOME now!>

Undressing slowly - her thoughts slid to her brooding boss, with a shake of her head she banished them - knowing that thinking about him would only make her feel even more lonely.

Sliding in to the hot water - she sank low. Letting the heat drain all the tension from her body.

Her mind replaying her conversation with Willow.

< If it was just a lust thing - just sex, surely it would have passed by now? >

Cordy knew it was more, if it was just physical it would have gone the moment she had realised the dangers of being with him.

It was more - it was the dozens of little things that happened everyday.

The way he smiled at her jokes, brushed her hand as she passed him a file, the way he moved, dressed - the way he fought for every helpless victim who walked through the doors of the Hyberion needing a `champion'.   In short she loved the man she knew him to be, the man he tried to be - and more importantly the man he wanted her to see.

Cordy went to bed that night thinking of her dark haired `champion' -  wishing she had the courage to tell him what she felt and be damned!

~~~*~~~

Four people fell asleep that night in L.A knowing they were in love.

Two curled around each other so tight that it was impossible to tell where one began and the other ended.

The other two were settled in lonely beds - none of them knowing that the next few days would change their future destiny's forever.

~Part: 7~

Willow awoke early wrapped in her lovers arms - smiling slightly she slid from the bed so as not to wake him and wandered in to the bathroom.

She had barely closed the door when a pain stabbed in her stomach - causing her to sag against the door - Willow gasped at the severity and grabbed the edge of the sink to stay on her feet - gravity won and she slipped to floor in a crumpled heap.

Spike heard the muffled thud - his eyes spring open. Looking around he noticed nothing wrong in the room - except Willow wasn't there.

< WILLOW! >

Bounding from the bed he threw open the bathroom door and saw his girl laying still and pale on the floor.

"ANGEL!!" he yelled, fear lacing his voice.

Kneeling at Willow's side - he could see her chest rising and falling shallowly, her heart beating in an erratic fashion, the sound loud in his ears.

Angel appeared at Spike's side - looking in wonder at the girl on the floor.

"What the hell happened?" the older vamp demanded - Spike couldn't form words - he just shrugged his shoulders and ground out "We need help - gotta get her somewhere - hospital - now" scooping her up he ran for the stairs.

Angel skidded to a halt beside Spike at the door - leading to the sun drenched steps.

"I'll call Cordy"

Spike just stood and looked at the hated glare of the sun, Willow hadn't made a sound - the only noise he was concentrating on was the unsteady thump - thump of her heart.

< What the fuck is going on here? She's meant to be all fixed! >

After what seemed like hours Cordy arrived in the underground parking lot - the two vamps jumped in, transferring Willow from one to other as they did so.

Cordy looked at her friend - the girl who just yesterday had been giving her tips on her love life was unconscious, deathly pale and so still.

"GO - NOW!" Spike shouted recognising the fear on the girls face as he knew his own wore the same mask.

~~~*~~~

The trip to the hospital was relatively easy - the trouble started when the doctor tried to take Willow out of Spike's arms - Angel had shouted at him and snapped him out of his thoughts - nodding he let the doctors do their job and stood back as Willow was wheeled away.

Cordelia clutched his arm "She'll be okay Spike" her voice faint to his ears as if she came from a great distance.

"How the hell do you know that? Got a crystal ball have you sweetheart - not a one of us knows what's going on in there" Spike growled - looking down at her, fury in his eyes.

"This isn't Cordy's fault - back off"

"Sorry chief little worried here - not really caring if I hurt your bird's feelings" Spike marched off down the corridor to look for a doctor to harass - he needed to do SOMETHING.

< Gotta find someone - gotta know what's going on >

Spying a nurses station he walked over, trying to keep his anger at bay he spoke softly to a young nurse who was working on some notes "Er I wondering if you can tell me anything about Willow Rosenberg? She was brought in a little while ago".

"Are you a relative?" the girl asked, gazing at the blonde haired man - a shroud of worry covering him.

"We're engaged - I'm all she has" the simple words brought a lump to his throat - choking back the emotion he concentrated on the nurse's words instead.

"Oh - okay give me a moment and I'll see what I can find out"

Nodding Spike sat in a chair opposite - watching the girl walk away, she entered a room and disappeared from sight.

Moments slipped in to minutes and the nurse still hadn't returned - he could see Angel and Cordelia sitting  over the other side of the waiting room. Cordelia had her head on Angel's shoulder, fat tears running freely down her face - Spike watched fascinated as Angel brushed a thumb across her wet cheeks and wrapped an arm around her, resting his chin on her head as she wept softly.

< Must be loving this - my girl's in there sick and he's hitting on the damn cheerleader >

Spike knew he was being unreasonable but he needed somewhere to turn his anger - and as always he directed it at his sire - in his heart, although it no longer beat, he understood they were just as worried as he was. He knew that this wasn't some deliberate plan to get in each other's arms but his brain wouldn't let him see that.

So instead he glowed and cursed them, thinking of evil and despicable tortures to inflict on Angel - wanting him to feel the pain he was going through.

"Sir?" a soft voice broke through his treacherous thoughts.

Blue eyes snapped up - looking in to the soft brown eyes of the nurse he had spoken to almost twenty minutes before.

Jumping to his feet, and feeling his sire's presence getting closer as they joined him - he stared at the girl and asked slowly "How is she?"

"She's still pretty out of it - we will have to carry out some more tests but at this point she's comfortable. We are unsure of just what is wrong with Miss Rosenberg but we should know within next few hours. The doctor said that if you want to be with her your welcome, but you must understand she needs peace and quiet, is there anyone else you'd like me to call for you?"

Spike shook his head and walked slowly towards Willows door - his feet dragging at the prospect at what he might find.

Turning back he saw Angel and Cordelia still talking to the nurse - Cordy looked at him and nodded, urging him on - he gave her a small smile of thanks, knowing she understood why he'd turned on her.

Placing his hand on the door handle he took a deep, unneeded, breath - turning the handle slowly he stepped inside.

Willow lay in the bed, so pale, so still that Spike was instantly taken back to Sunnydale a few weeks before - after the accident - he had prayed that he'd never see her like that again.

< Just shows that God doesn't look after the likes of me >

Sitting next to her bed, he whispered to her  - over and over.

"Willow? Come on Red wake up for me. Gotta go shopping with Cordy today - you wanna piss off the cheerleader pet?"

"Spike?" Angel's voice came from the doorway, Spikes turned - hand clasped in Willows.

"What's going on here Angel? She was meant to be better!"

"I know - we'll fix this - I promise!"

"Can't promise a damn thing Angel - look even Cordelia knows that - we can't fight illness. Can we."

Cordelia walked over to the blonde vamp and rested her hand over his "We'll figure out what to do. I love her too Spike - she's a good person  and the P.T.B won't just let a good person die - not when they help save the world!" her voice had risen - taking on  a slightly hysterical edge.

Angel stepped forwarded and folded her into his arms "Come on - lets go back to the hotel - got some calls to make - you staying here?" his eyes on Spike.

"Where the hell else I gonna be"

Cordy pulled out of Angel's arm and kissed Willow, then Spike on the cheek "look after her, I'll be back in couple of  hours"

Spike nodded and watched them leave - leaving him alone with Willow once more.

~~~*~~~

Hours later Spike was still by the bed - wishing he knew what he could do to help.

The doctors hadn't given him any new information and Willow hadn't woken the entire time - looking down at her he pleaded with her to open her eyes - he didn't say a word, the words coming unbidden in to his head.

< Willow? Please hear me little one - I need you to wake up now - come on pet! Wake up >

Willow didn't stir, didn't give the stricken vampire any indication that she had heard him.

The door opened softly and the Doctor entered - looking grim.

Spike sat up a little straighter at his sour expression.

"We have some news - but I'm not sure its what you want to hear"

"Just spit it out mate - killing me here!" Spike glowered - not liking the doctor's demeanour.

"We can't find anything wrong with her - all her blood work came back fine - nothing unusual to indicate catatonia - the cat scans came back clear too, I'm sorry but at this moment we have no clue why she is unconscious"

""What do you mean NOTHING! She ain't like this for no reason pal! I suggest you dig deeper - find the bloody reason and quick!" Spike knew his face was about to slip, and he knew he couldn't let the doctor see that.

"I'm sorry - I don't know what else to do - we have run every test imaginable"

Spike sighed and looked at his redhead "She ain't  gonna get better -  that's what your trying to tell me ain't it - that if she doesn't wake up soon she's not gonna?"

The doctor nodded sadly "Her body will start shutting down - it can't cope with the body being down for so long - I have no idea what could have caused this and in turn no resources to make it right - I'm sorry" with that the man turned and left.

~~~*~~~

Angel stood in the doorway of Willow's room, it had been two days since the doctor's bombshell and Spike hadn't left Willow's bedside since.

If he had had any doubt over Spike's love for the witch before - it had long since fled!

Spike's reaction to her illness had humbled Angel, the blonde vamp had proven he had real and true emotions where the redhead was concerned.

< He achieves this without a soul - and I can't even express to Cordelia what I truly feel. Looks like the teacher is about to become the pupil! >

"Spike?" Angel voice was low in the room - Spike didn't speak, just turned stricken eyes to his sire.

"Spike - we'll fix this - I promise"

"Don't think you can mate - she don't start fighting back soon, she'll never be able to" the words hollow and hard - passing Spike's throat of their own volition.

Cordelia walked in silently and stood at Angel's side - her hand seeking his in the stillness of the room.

"I think you boys should leave for a few hours - you know - have a FEED" her eyes meeting Spikes.

Spike shook his head "Sorry pet - can't leave her alone"

"She won't be - I'm here. Please Spike, she's going to need you strong - for her. Now GO" her voice both pleading and demanding.

"I agree with her childe - Willow is going to need her champion" Angel's voice was stern, he didn't want to loose his childe and he knew if they didn't feed soon Spike was going to start feeling the effects.

Spike looked at his two friends in the doorway - he almost smiled as he realised he had thought of them as friends.

< Never thought I'd see the day where I viewed Angel as a friend - cheerleader too! >

Sighing heavily he stood - his muscles and  bones protesting from the lack of movement they had endured over the last couple of days.

"Just an hour or so - if there's any change call - I don't care if she just twitches a finger! You call! Understand?"

Cordy nodded, watching as Spike leant down and whispered  in Willow's ear - she was too far away to hear what he said but her heart lurched at the sight.

< He loves her so much - this is so unfair - I hope the PTB's know what their doing because if she. if she doesn't make it, I can see us having William the bloody back on our hands >

Walking slowly towards the door Spike looked down at Cordy and whispered "Anything - call me - please"

Cordy nodded and hugged him - feeling him stiffen slightly at the contact then almost sag into her - the relief of feeling of someone holding him nearly his undoing.

 " Don't worry - I'll call - now please go look after yourself for a while. Okay?"

Nodding he cast one more look at his girl in the bed then left - Angel watched him leave and turned to Cordy - seeing how bright her eyes were he groaned.

"Thank you" he whispered pulling her into his arms - drawing back slightly he looked at her surprised expression -  dipping his head he kissed her softly, his arms holding her close, his lips needy for her to return the kiss.

Cordelia froze for an instant - the shock of Angel kissing her so lovingly was making her mind scramble - finally gathering her thoughts - she let her hands drift up around his neck and returned the kiss - her lips opening under Angel's as she felt his tongue trace her lips.

< WOW - AT LAST! > Two minds echoed in unison.

Angel pulled back slowly and rested his forehead to hers, staring into each other's eyes " See you soon " he whispered - Cordy nodded dumbly and watched him leave.

< OKAY! WHAT THE HELL WAS THAT!!! >

The brunette stumbled slightly as she sat in the chair Spike had not long vacated - and began the terrifying job of watching her friend slowly die before her.

~~~*~~~

Spike hadn't said a word during the entire ride back to the hotel - Angel kept glancing at him - watching as his childe started the slow progression towards self-destruction.

"We will think of something" he promised.

"What? While you've got ya tongue down the cheerleader's throat! - I saw - nice pal!" Spike's tone harsh and condemning.

"It seemed right - I'm sorry -  we will think of something. I`m not going to let you lose her Spike"

Spike stalked inside the hotel and turned quickly - his eyes bright with unshed tears "I've nothing but think for the last two days - and so far I have one alternative to Willow dying - and that's to turn her!"

Angel's office door opening had them both turning quickly - both men stared at the interloper in shock as their soft words filtered through their heads.

"So what the hell are you waiting for? Turn her now!"

~Part: 8~

"WHAT?" the two vampires asked - astonishment clearly evident on their faces.

"I said turn her now - I don't want her dead and neither do you. Giles can so the soul restoration spell, that way she won't come back THAT much different"

Spike sat heavily on the centre seat - shaking his head in wonder he asked, "You really think that? Do you really think Willow could cope with the demon screaming for blood? You, of all people, know how vampires work Buffy"

Walking slowly down the steps Buffy stood in front of him "Do you love her? Do you want her to die?" her voice hard - fighting every emotion in her to keep her face impassive.

Spike exploded, jumping to his feet he lunged at the slayer - Angel ran and grabbed his childe before he could attack.

"YOU KNOW I BLOODY WELL LOVE HER! - you know I'd die for her!"

"So why won't you give her a chance to live?" Buffy whispered, holding her ground as Spike raged.

"Because she won't be MY Red anymore. She'll be changed, defiled, it's not right Buffy. Don't ask me to do this"

Angel let him go as he sagged - all fight leaving the younger vamp as he sobbed quietly.

"I'm sorry Spike. I have to, I won't let her die. If you or Angel won't do this I'll find a vamp that will"

Buffy turned to go but was suddenly hauled face to face with an angry Angel.

His anger almost blinding him as he snarled in her face, the young woman he had once loved so completely was gone - leaving a heartless shell in its wake.

He knew it was because of the situation she had found herself in - but this Buffy wasn't the one he knew - this Buffy was facing a lifetime without Willow at her side, a prospect she couldn't and wouldn't comprehend.

 Angel knew he had to make her understand that her behaviour was inappropriate - and a senseless task - he couldn't have her running around town .looking for a vamp to sire Willow.

"Don't you dare come to my town and start giving orders or throwing out threats - it won't work. You just can't decide Willow's future. It's your not your choice - not ours either. Her life is in the hands of the powers that be - no-one else!"

Letting her go he stepped away - watching her face closely as his words sank in.

"Then let's go see them - I mean it Angel I won't lose her - I can't" her voice broke, sobs raking her small frame as Angel folded her into his arms and let her cry her fear and anger out - whispering quiet words of comfort he watched as Spike stood and ambled towards the kitchen.

"Spike?"

"I'm okay - just gonna feed and get back to Willow" his eyes on Buffy's distraught form - he needed to be away from the sadness and despair that was rolling off of the slayer.

Angel nodded in understanding and watched him leave.

~~~*~~~

Buffy sat, her head in her hands as her sobs subsided into hic-cups -  Angel had gone to make tea - leaving her with her thoughts.

She was grateful he had, she felt emotionally wrung and tired - she didn't even have the energy to speak.

Her mind tumbling back over the last couple of days.

She had left Sunnydale in a shroud of secrecy and bitterness.

Bitterness towards the one man in her life who had been constant - Giles.

He had insisted that the Scooby's wait before barrelling up to L.A - telling them they had to learn more.

Favouring to delve into his books and going into full research mode -  hoping against hope that the answer lay between the pages of one of his numerous ledgers and tomes.

Both he and Buffy knew that the likelihood of that was almost impossible - but it was the `almost' that kept the group going.

Buffy had tried to help but finally she had snapped - throwing a book across the room and demanding to know just what the hell they were going to achieve sitting there reading about curses, monsters and tooth fairies!!! - Xander had sat quietly in a kind of stunned silence for days - but at the mention of tooth fairy's he had doubled up with laughter.

"Stop it! This instant!" Giles snapped to the laughing teen - but Xander couldn't - all the despair and worry came flooding out, his laughter changing to heart wrenching sobs in a matter of seconds.

Anya knelt at his side, holding him close - glaring at Giles "You say one more word to him old man and I swear I won't NEED to be a vengeance demon to get revenge on you - he needs to do this so just shut up and sit down"

Giles's frowned but did as he was told - but not before helping Xander on to the couch and handing him a glass of brandy with a muttered "For the shock"

"Giles we can't just sit here - it's killing us - we need to help" Buffy had tried to explain - only to have Giles round on her in anger.

"And what do you plan on doing? There is nothing for you to fight - no monster who once vanquished will return Willow to her normal self! All we will be able to do is sit at her bedside and weep - you really think that's going to achieve anything? Buffy there is nothing you can do - but here? Here at least we have a chance of maybe helping her"

Buffy stood and advanced on her watcher "Maybe? MAYBE! I can't live with maybes Giles. I need to do SOMETHING! And that something will not be planning my best friends funeral" her voice rising with each word until she had stormed out - leaving an angry Giles and tearful Xander behind her.

Hopping the first bus to L.A, she called her mother en route explaining the circumstances - her first port of call had been Angel's hotel; in her mind at least, her plan to save Willow.

She hadn't meant to blurt it out as she had but hearing the resolution in the vampires voices had chilled her soul.

They had given up, had given up on Willow - they both knew how stubborn she could be, they knew that if it was one of them lying in that hospital bed it would be that girl who solved the problem and pulled them back to the loving arms of their `family'.

Angel reappeared silently at her side and placed the cup of tea in her hand - Buffy looked up at him for a moment with considering eyes and told him bluntly.

"Your going to watch her die aren't you?"

Angel paused and sitting next to her, he whispered, "I can see no other way out of this situation - this isn't supernatural or paranormal Buffy - it's just life. We can't fight that; we can't fight the laws of nature"

"Why  not? Why can't just for once we win? I don't know what I'm going to do without her and I refuse to believe there is nothing we can do"

Hanging her head she whispered "God I wish I knew what tomorrow will bring - I can't stand this Angel - the not knowing, the waiting..What?"

Angel had a strange smile on his face "Maybe we can see where this is gonna end up - I need to make a few calls then I'll explain" and with that he was gone, holed up in his office while Buffy sat and tried to read a magazine she'd found on the front desk.

~~~*~~~

Cordelia stretched as she got out of the cab, her back aching from sitting in an uncomfortable hospital chair for so long.

Dreaming of a long soak in a hot bath she ambled up the front steps of the hotel - she'd promised Spike she'd tell Angel that he wouldn't be returning that night - favouring Willow's bedside than anywhere else.

Spike had been almost silent since his trip back with Angel - Cordy shook her head.

< It's just the stress of the situation - we'll all feeling it >

Stepping through the doors, she was more than a little shocked at the scene in front of her.

Angel stood holding Buffy tight in his arms - her hands clasped behind his head as they smiled into each other's faces.

"What.?" any further words died in Cordelia's throat as she realised what she had walked in on.

A happy reconciliation between the doomed former lovers.

Angel heard the softly word and turned to see Cordelia, her eyes bright with tears at the scene she had just witnessed.

Hurrying over to her he scooped her into his arms - her startled gasp making him chuckle.

"We may have found a way to help Willow!" his eyes bright with happiness.

Cordy frowned in confusion "How? What? Angel what's going on? - What's Buffy doing here? - I don't understand"

Angel silenced her ramble with a hot and searing kiss - uncaring that his former lover stood only feet away.

If he had bothered to look, he would have seen the smile on Buffy's face at her two old friends finally together - it had hurt just a tiny bit to see his happiness at seeing Cordy.

She had Riley now and both she and Angel knew it could never be, they had found the chance to be happy and had taken it.

Cordelia clung to Angel shoulders, his mouth hard against hers as he kissed her toughly - she wasn't sure what was happening and a tiny part of her didn't care.

Angel pulled back and rested his forehead to hers - their eyes meeting as he whispered.

"Hi"

Cordy grinned "Hi - you gonna tell me what's going on - or just kiss me senseless?"

"Hmmm - tough question! - let's go and get Spike and I'll explain on the way"

Cordy nodded and turning as he ran off to find his keys came face to face with a bemused Buffy!

"Buffy? Oh! Sorry you had to find out this way."

Buffy silenced her with a shrug "Don't worry - things have been over between us for a while now - I have a new boyfriend and seems Angel has someone new too - I'm glad Cordy. Okay?"

Cordy could only nod -  words for once failing her.

"You ladies ready to go?" Angel asked, reappearing with keys.

"Just where ARE we going?" Cordy demanded as Angel hurried them out to the car.

The doors swishing closed behind them as he informed her "To get Spike and Willow"

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