~Part: 21~ Noone Knows But You

Buffy sat in the darkness. She looked out at the night sky and sighed. It had been two days since the funeral. Five days since she had seen his smile...felt his touch.....

She wrapped her arms tight around her body. She was wearing one of his shirts that he had left at her house. She could smell him on it. She laid her cheek against the glass of the window and closed her eyes. She felt tears silently begin to fall as she thought of him...her soul mate.

She hadn't been lieing to Willow when she said that he was the one. They had only been together a short time, but it had been perfect. She had felt so loved. She hadn't felt that way since before Angelus. It had been so nice. Now, it was gone. He was gone. The hellmouth strikes again. Buffy knew that the others were worried
about her. Even Cordelia had expressed genuine sympathy. Xander had taken to patrolling with her, so she would have the company. And Willow....Buffy thought of her
best friend and smiled. If it hadn't been for Willow, she honestly thought she might have tried to join Tyler. Let another girl have the curse of being the slayer. But
Willow wouldn't let her. She had insisted that Buffy move in to the spare bedroom as long as she liked. Buffy knew that her friend really just wanted her close, so she
could keep tabs on her. She didn't mind. It was nice to feel loved and cared for. Willow understood her almost as well as Tyler. She also knew that she would have to
leave soon. Go back to the apartment...to the memories. She had been awaken several times hearing the shouting from down the hall. She knew Spike didn't want her
there. Angel was more understanding, but she knew that he too found it a bit awkward. Willow had insisted though, and the men had agreed.

(My father left me....my mother left me....Angel left me...and now Tyler has left me....everyone that I love seems to die, get taken away or disappear.) She heard the
raised voices down the hall. She opened her eyes and looked at the sky. (I feel as though you are listening to me, my love. I miss you. I wish you were here....in my
arms. It is all my fault. I shouldn't have made you leave...if I hadn't, you would be alive. I let you down.) She began to sob. She felt a breeze drift over her skin.
Startled, she noticed that the window was still closed.

Suddenly, she heard a door slam...then another. She got up and crept close to the door, listening. She could hear Willow crying softly. Her eyes harden, the sadness
leaving them, replaced by anger. Anger at the bastard that had made Willow cry. (Never again...I love Willow so much. She is the best friend anyone could have. She
has put up with me and my attitude...my conceit....she has taught me what a true friend is. If that bastard ever touches her or yells at her again, he'll have to answer
to me. No one hurts my Willow. He will not take her away from me. Neither of them will take her.) A look of fury was on her face.

She climbed into the bed and closed her eyes. She saw Tyler's face. He was looking at her with love. She smiled....knowing that he had forgiven her...that he would
always love her as she would always love him. He wanted her to go on with her life. It was his way. He wouldn't want her to mope and be so unhappy. She drifted off
to sleep wondering if she would ever be entirely happy again.

The Song:

"I can almost feel you smiling
From beyond those silver skies
As you watch me finding my way
Here without you in my life

No one know but you
How I feel inside
No one knows
No one knows but you

I've come so close to believing
All the echoes in the wind
Brushing my hair off my shoulders
I feel you there once again

And if there is some magic
Some way around these stars
Some road that I can travel
To get to where you are
I'll cry this empty canyon
An ocean full of tears
And I won't stop believing
That your love is always near"
 

~Part: 22~ Life Goes On

"I'm sorry. I was a jerk. I never really thought about what you were going through. I was entirely selfish...a bad, selfish person. I just felt like I needed to have her
stay." Willow said, sighing.

"It's ok pet. I know you were worried about the chit. You just should have asked first. You put both Peaches and I in a bad spot. We seemed like the bad guys here."

"Spike...I honestly was only thinking about Buffy and what she needed. She didn't need to be alone."

"Willow's right about that. It almost seemed like she was considering suicide in the beginning. She does seem much happier now."

"I never realized just how deeply the slayer felt about her pup. Oh well, she's young. She'll find another one."

He ducked as Willow reached to hit him. He felt a smile cross his face.

"You...you...demon!" Willow yelled, good naturedly. She had come to expect things like this from Spike. The only people he truly cared about were with him in this
room, and the other one was over in Paris. She knew that he had sympathy for Buffy, he was just too damn stubborn to admit it.

"That I am ducks. So, the bimbo is leaving tomorrow? It'll be nice to get my house back."

Willow looked at Angel and rolled her eyes. Angel hid a smile. He knew the reason that Spike hated having Buffy around. He had to share Willow with her. He always
would be a selfish brat.

"Is she planning on starting up regular patrols again?"

"Yes. She said that she needs to jump straight back in to it, so she doesn't lose her ability. I'm glad that she is doing so well. I was really worried when she didn't eat
or leave the room. I guess she realized that life does go on."

"I'll go with her. She still seems a bit shaky to me. I would hate for her to get into a bad situation." Angel said.

"Always the knight in tarnished armor huh Peaches?" Spike replied, smirking.

"Fuck off Blondie." Angel returned.

"Go to hell Daddy."

"Been there, done that, got the T-shirt."

Willow smiled as she listened to her boys par back and forth. Yes, life did go on. It seemed like things might just be getting back to normal or as close as normal could
ever be on the Hellmouth.

**********

"Buffy....are you ok?"

Buffy looked at her friend and saw the concern written on her face. "Yes Wills. It's just a little weird being here is all." The slayer took a deep breath and looked around
her apartment. She has only been back once since Tyler's death. Long enough to grab some clothes and necessities. She went to her bedroom, remembering their last
night together. Her eyes focused on a photograph that was beside her bed. She felt the tears forming, and fought letting them fall. She felt an arm going around her
shoulder, hugging her tight. She leaned her head into Willow's shoulder and cried.

"Shh...Buffy. It will be ok. Just let it all out."

"Willow....I'm sorry. Some slayer huh? All I can do is cry and mope around. I feel so....useless."

"BUFFY! You just lost the love of your life. You are completely normal. I don't know what I'd do if anything ever happened to Spike. I'd probably be much worse than
you."

Buffy grimaced slightly when she heard her friend talk about the blond vampire with such love in her voice. (Why can't she see what he is? What he is doing to her? Is
love really that blind?)

Willow started to go to the kitchen, to get Buffy some water.

"Willow! Don't leave me. I'll come with."

Willow smiled at her friend, but a slight frown marred her pretty face as she turned away. Ever since Tyler's death, Buffy had become her shadow. It was as though
her friend thought she might disappear. Spike and Angel had both noticed before she had. They had had several arguments about it. She hadn't realized until recently
that they were both right. Buffy's behaviour was very strange. She decided that she might have to go see Giles. He might understand what was going on in the
slayer's mind. She sure didn't. She really hated to admit that Spike was right. She wouldn't hear the end of it for quite some time. The cheeky bastard loved to remind
them of everytime he had been right. Hell, he still gloated over things with Angel that had happened over a hundred years ago. That was her Spike. He was waiting on
her.

"Buffy...I'd better get going."

"Now? All ready? You just got here."

"I have some things to do. I'll call you later. Ok?"

"You're going to Spike." Buffy stated flatly. Willow was puzzled by her friend's attitude. (She must have sensed that he wasn't crazy about her staying with us.)

"Yes, Buffy. I am meeting Spike. He has a surprise planned for me." She said, blushing.

While Buffy had lived with them, they had neglected their sex life a bit. Well, SHE had neglected it. She knew that Angel and Spike had continued on as though the
slayer wasn't there, but she hadn't been able to. Who could have rough loud sex while your best friend was sleeping down the hall? Not her. She hadn't become that
worldly yet.

She noticed Buffy weakly sitting on the sofa. "What's wrong?"

"Nothing. It is just so overwhelming. Being here again....I don't know if I can stay here alone."

Willow felt panic. She didn't know what to do. She knew that Buffy was hinting around at her to stay the night with her, but Spike was waiting. He had been so eager
to celebrate their privacy. He did love surprises and had been planning what ever this one was for awhile. She felt a hand grasp hers. Buffy was crying again.

"Willow....I'll understand if you say no...but could you possibly stay over with me? Just this once. I just don't know if I am strong enough for this yet..." her voice
trailed off.

Willow took a deep breath. She really hated this. It just wasn't fair. "OK." She whispered. "Let me call Spike." She went into the bedroom to use the phone privately.

She didn't the see the smile of triumph that lit Buffy's tear stained face. "Round one is mine vampire." she whispered.

**********

"What the bloody hell are you saying?"

Spike looked at Angel. Angel could see the anger his childe was trying to control.

"Willow.....she is an adult. She can deal. Now, get rid of your little shadow and get the fuck home. We had plans tonight. I've missed you luv. We've missed you.
Tonight is special."

"Willow....don't do this. Do NOT do this. Blimey....the little chit hung up on me."

"Is it Buffy?" Angel asked, all ready knowing the answer.

"Yeah Peaches. Isn't it always? Seems Miss Slayer decided that she couldn't bear to stay along in her apartment tonight. She begged Red to stay with her."

Angel frowned. "What do you think is going on? Buffy has seemed different lately."

"She hates me. She is unhappy and wants everyone to suffer with her. I don't really know."

Angel looked closely at Spike. "Talk to me. Something is bothering you." Spike turned and looked at the fire. "She's trying to take Willow away from me....from us." he
whispered.

"Spike, you're crazy. Why would Buffy suddenly decide to do something like that? She knows Willow is in love with you. She wouldn't hurt Willow like that."

Spike just lit a cigarette. He felt real fear that he might lose Willow. He had been jealous of Angel, but Buffy scared him. He'd never admit it, but she did. She was his
Willow's best friend. Willow felt such loyalty for her. She had chosen the slayer once before in their previous argument. He knew he'd kill anything or anyone that stood
between him and Willow. He really hoped that the Slayer understood this. If she still wanted to play, he was game. She'd have to be told that, when it was something
important to him, he never lost.

**********

"So, what are we doing today?" Buffy asked eagerly.

Willow sighed and ran a hand over her forehead. "Buffy....I plan to go home. I need to see my husband. I've been with you for two days. He won't even return my calls
right now. I miss him."

Buffy studied her friend. "Wills, why do you put up with it? You deserve so much better than that bastard."

"Buffy! I love Spike. You know this. I married him for Goddess sakes. I don't know what your problem is, but I will not sit here and let you run him down. He is my other
half. Deal with it."

"He's going to end up hurting you Wills. I've seen the bruises. I've heard the fighting. I am not going to sit by and watch you ruin your life."

"Buffy.....forget the bruises. He probably has worse. I thought you knew....vampires tend to get a bit rough while having sex. It excites me. I like to see his mark left
on me. We always fight. It is part of our relationship. We always make up afterwards. You have nothing to worry about."

'I don't care. It isn't you Willow. I hadn't realized just how much he had been changing you. I plan to stop it."

"You will do nothing of the sort! It is my life, Buffy. If I chose to let him beat me until I bled, and then fuck me senseless, it would be my choice. Not yours. You have
your own life to worry about. So stay out of mine! Until you can talk about this rationally, I'd appreciate you leaving me alone. I will not give Spike up for you, no
matter how much I love you. I think you need to analyze your life right now and make some decisions. Until then, stay away from Spike. I don't trust you right now."
She whispered that last sentence. She grabbed her purse and left.

Buffy sat in silence thinking over what had just happened. (It's for her own good. She'll thank me one day. I WILL save her.)

**********

Captured. That was how she felt when his lips claimed hers. He took. He demanded. He possessed. No gentleness. No seduction. All the pent-up emotions and
frustrations of the past week burst like floodwaters in a dam. There was a savageness in the way he took her mouth that frightened, yet strangely, excited her during
the oh so brief moment that his lips joined hers.

He pulled back first. His cold blue eyes looking in to her soul. "You're back."

"Yes. I love you."

"I know. What happened, pet?"

"I'm scared. Buffy seems so cold. She wants you out of my life. I'm worried that she is going to kill you."

"Red....I'd kill her. She is not that great of a fighter. Sure, she can slay fledglings, but she can't really hold her own against a master vampire, especially in her current
state of mind."

"Don't kill her. Please?"

"Red, if it comes down to her or me...."

Willow slowly nodded. "You." she said simply.

"I'm going to go talk to Giles. See if he can figure out why she is acting so strange. It had to be something that happened after Tyler died. Maybe he can find some
logic in it all. Promise me you'll stay in. I'll put a protection spell on the place as I leave."

"They actually have a spell to use against psychotic slayers?" Spike asked, grinning.

"Spike! Be serious. Promise me. I won't lose you. Maybe I should page Angel...see if he can come..."

"I don't need a bloody babysitter. Leave dear old Dad alone, won't you luv? I'll be good. Cross my heart and hope to gain a soul."

Willow had to laugh. He could always do that to her. Make her see humor even in the most serious situations. She kissed him roughly. "I'll be back. Be good. Love you."

"Me too, Red. Me too."

Willow left after casting a small protection spell that would keep uninvited mortals out of the house. She would undo it when she returned.

She got in her car, not noticing the shadow that was hidden in the trees beside the house.

**********

Giles listened intently as the redhead filled him in on Buffy's behaviour. His mind started thinking through all of the possibilities. Suddenly, the door to his apartment
opened.

"Willow...thank god." Buffy ran to hug her friend.

Willow pulled away. "What is it?"

"I am so sorry. I didn't realize until you left just how terrible I've been acting. I wasn't able to save Tyler, so I felt it was my duty to save everyone else. I didn't even
think that you might not want to be saved. I am so sorry. You must hate me. I was a complete bitch. I know you love Spike. He loves you. I don't know what I was
thinking. I just kept picturing him hurting you. I honestly have no idea why I said such horrible things. I am just so glad you are ok."

"Buffy, why did you think Willow was in danger?" Giles asked.

"I went by the house, to apologize. The door was open. The living room was a mess. It looked like there had been a big fight or something. Furniture overturned." She
cast a glance at Willow. "I saw blood. I tried to go in but, for some reason, I couldn't get past the doorway."

Willow's eyes widened. 'Protection spell. You scared me earlier. I thought you might try to stake Spike or something. Did you talk to Spike?"

"No one answered me Will. I thought you might have been hurt. I just assumed Spike and Angel were out hunting or something. I didn't see him."

Willow felt a rush of fear shoot through her. "I have to go see...he must be there. He promised he wouldn't leave."

The door opened and Angel rushed in. He pulled Willow into his arms, "Thank god.. you are ok. Where's Spike?" he asked pulling back and looking into her eyes. "I went
by the house and it was a mess. What happened?"

"Angel, was Spike not in the house?" Buffy asked.

"No. It was empty. Why?" panic began to creep into his voice, "Was he there? Willow, was he there?"

Willow slowly nodded. "He said he wouldn't leave. He promised."

"This isn't good. I'll get Xander and Cordy to meet us over there. We can look around and see if we see anything. Ok Wills?" Buffy asked, hoping her friend had forgiven
her for her horrible behaviour. She let out a sigh when Willow nodded. "We'll find him Willow. I promise. You will not lose him." She went to the phone and dialed
Xander's number.

**********

Spike came to slowly. His head felt as though someone had hit him with a hammer. His cold eyes took in his surroundings. It was a small room, very dark. All he saw
was the bed he was on and a chair. He tried to remember what had happened, but it was a blank.

"Oh, good. You're awake. I must say, the blow was a bit harder than intended."

Spike looked towards the door. An older man stood, looking at him. He felt a wave distaste crawl over his flesh.

"Who are you? Why the hell am I here?"

"Tsk..tsk...how rude. All in good time, William, all in good time. Oh, do you prefer Spike? Regardless, you will be my guest for a time."

"You're guest? I don't think so."

The man sighed deeply. "William, we can this pleasant and easy or we can make it painful. I would much prefer the previous suggestion. You will be my guest. I need
you....well, actually, I need your blood. I'll tell you, it is becoming rather difficult to capture a Master Vampire these days. I was so lucky to have stumbled upon you.
Anywho....I must be going. I have much to prepare before the ceremony. I'm sure you'll be comfortable. Oh, and don't think about trying anything. If you do, I may be
forced to harm sweet Willow. We wouldn't want that now would we?"

Spike felt his control slipping. He didn't like this. He liked his blood right where it was. He certainly didn't intend to share it with that lunatic. (Willow....I love
you...please find me) he thought before he kicked the chair across the room.

**********

The gang was looking at the house. They had been unable to find anything to help them in their search. Willow sat quietly looking out the window. (Where are you
Spike) Suddenly, she got an image of an older man. He was standing in the doorway of a small, dark room. She heard him saying something about master vampires and
blood. It was gone as fast as she had seen it.

"Giles..." she turned looking at the watcher. "What would you know about something involving a master vampire's blood?"

Giles looked startled at the question. "Well, there are several ancient spells and ceremonies that require that ingredient. Why?"

"I just had a vision of sorts. I think an older guy has Spike and he plans to do some sort of ceremony using Spike's blood."

"A vision? Did you see anything else?" Buffy asked eagerly. She needed to atone for her behaviour. She needed to rescue Spike.

"It was a small room. Very dark." Willow thought a moment. "I heard water running."

"Is that it?"

"Well, it didn't give me the bloody address Buffy." Willow said.

The others paused and tried to hide their smiles. She was starting to sound more and more like Spike.

"OK....small dark rooms with water nearby. Should be easy." Buffy said, trying to sound enthusiastic.

"I just had a thought. If indeed Spike was taken by a sorcerer of sorts, it is very possible that this man was manipulating Buffy through magic. That may have been the
cause of her shift in attitude."

"You think? Wait....there one night. I was sitting by the window and I felt this breeze against my neck. The window was closed. I uh...sort of wanted to think it was
Tyler, looking out for me. Do you think this guy could have done that?"

"It is quite likely. He needed Spike, so he needed to get him alone. How better to do that than alienate those closest to him. It worked splendidly, if that was the
plan."

Buffy felt a shiver go down her spine at the idea that someone had made her think such crazy things. At least Willow knew that it hadn't really been her.

"OK. Let's go hunting. I'll pick up Oz on the way. We might need his racking ability tonight."

"Come on gang, we've got to go rescue Blondie." Xander said, striking a pose.

The others laughed as they gathered supplies for the hunt.

(Spike....we're coming..I love you) Willow thought, before she took Angel's hand and left with the others.

**********

"Willow...we will find him." Angel said softly.

Willow looked at him and smiled. "I know. I'm just worried. For some reason, I thought it would be easy. I figured we'd just stumble right on to him tonight. We usually
seem that lucky. I just hope he's OK until we do find him."

"This is Spike we're talking about. If anything, he's probably driving his kidnapper nuts by now."

Willow started to laugh. She stopped when she realized that he was actually gone. Angel reached over and pulled her into a hug. "It'll be ok Red. Trust me. Soon, he'll
be back here trading quips with the slayer and beating us all at that damn hockey game."

Willow looked into Angel's eyes. He was concerned for her, but they held no fear for Spike. That comforted her. If Angel thought he would be fine, he would be. She
gently kissed Angel.

"Make me forget.....for awhile."

He kissed her back, pulling her body into his. He walked her back to the bed. His mouth littering kisses all over her face. His hands ran along the length of her body,
quickly removing her clothes. Soon, she felt his mouth on her breast, her stomach....

"Oh...Angel....yes..."

Willow closed her eyes, concentrating on the pleasure his mouth was bringing her and trying to forget her troubles, for just a little while.

**********

Spike frowned as the man walked into the room, carrying a bag of blood and a book.

"Why am I still here, mate? Just let me kill you and I promise it will be nice and fast."

The man chuckled. "You are certainly a funny one aren't you? Yes, I made the right decision in coming to Sunnydale for you. I can feel the power in you. Your blood
almost sings with it. Yes, this will be much better."

"Here is your dinner, Master William. I also thought you might be getting bored. From what I've heard about you, I decided we couldn't have that. Here is a nice book
for you to read. I will be purchasing a TV for you tomorrow. I have to make sure you enjoy your stay. I believe it will be three more weeks, give or take a day. And
remember, don't think about doing anything stupid. I would so hate to have to meet Willow. She is such a lovely young lady. Besides, you are far too important to my
future to make unhappy."

The man looked at him like Willow looked at chocolate ice cream. He didn't like this. He didn't like this at all.

"Who the hell are you?"

"OH...I am so sorry. I never introduced myself. That was very rude. You may call me Bob."

Spike had to laugh. He was being kept prisoner by a bleeding idiot named Bob.

**********

Willow shut the book forcefully. "I can't find anything."

Buffy and the others looked at her. She was slowly falling apart. They didn't know that they'd have done if Angel hadn't been there. He had become Willow's lifeline.

It had been six days. They had been unable to find Spike, the mysterious man Willow saw in her vision, a house...nothing. It all seemed rather pointless to continue.
Buffy had been neglecting her patrols. Xander had missed a day of work. Giles always had his head in the books trying to figure some angle they may have missed.

Buffy looked at the others. They made gestures at her to speak. She sighed and went over, taking Willow's hand in hers.

'Wills....I hate to be the one to say this, but you need to face reality. Spike's gone, honey. It's been almost a week."

"No he's not. We just can't find him!" Willow said, jerking her hand from Buffy's grasp.

"We can't find him because he's dust." Xander put in. He cringed when Willow gave him an angry glare.

"Spike is alive."

"Willow, I believe the children are right. If a sorcerer needed Spike's blood for a ritual or spell, he would have killed him. It had been too long."

"No...."

"Geez, Willow. This is Spike! He is the only vamp that can kick my ass. No offense Angel. You can not tell me that some guy would be able to keep him restrained for
this long. It is not possible. Spike either died trying to get loose or he was killed by the mystery man. We can't keep looking for a ghost!" Buffy finished. She hated
having to say these things, but she and the others knew the truth. Spike could not possible be alive.

"No. Wait....hear me out. Angel and I have talked about this. Spike could be restrained if this guy was threatening him."

"What would he use to threaten him?" Cordelia asked.

"Me. Spike would sacrifice himself for my life. We've discussed it before. I never thought it would actually come to that..."

"Willow....be logical."

"OK..Logical. From what we have read so far, only very important spells and such need a master vampire's blood. It is usually the most important thing, also the most
difficult to get. The thing I noticed is that it always has to be fresh. So, if this guy is planning a spell, he'd need the blood to be fresh. He also went to a lot of trouble
to get Spike. I mean, messing with Buffy's mind, breaking in and all. Spike is important to him. If it were me, I'd want the most important ingredient on hand before I
started any preparations. I feel like this guy is the same way."

'Willow. I understand what you are saying, but it has been six days. It would not take that long to perform most of these spells. He could, indeed, have kept Spike for
a day or two. But six? Even you must admit that that is a bit extreme." Giles tried to reason.

Willow just shook her head. "Some of the spells I found had to be performed on the full moon, which is in two weeks. They are rather obscure, but it had to have been
of those. Spike is not dead...well, I mean, not gone. He is still alive...I mean, dead. Goddess, I don't even know what I mean."

The others watched as Angel wrapped him protectively in his arms. "Willow's right." he said softly.

"Deadboy....you've all ready got into her bed. You don't have to say things to butter her up anymore. Besides, the competition factor is gone." Xander smirked.

Angel went over and socked him in the mouth. Within seconds, he was back holding Willow. Willow had to fight a smile.

"Damn! Why the hell did you do that? I think you may have busted my lip."

Angel ignored him, looking instead into Giles' eyes. "Spike is my favorite childe. Not only that, he and I share a strong bond. I'd know if he were gone. I could feel it. I
don't. That means, he is still around somewhere. He's not dead."

"I'm sorry Angel...Willow. But we can not assist in this hunt for a ghost. Everything that we can find proves that Spike must be dead. Buffy needs to concentrate on
her patrols. With the lack of a master, the vampires are growing increasingly bold. She is going to have to start patrolling more often. Xander and Cordelia are planning
on assisting her." Giles said.

"Willow, I'm very sorry. I thought losing Tyler was horrible, but I'm sure it was nothing compared to what you are going through. You need to accept it and move on, or
you will end up going insane." Buffy reached for her friend.

"NO! He is NOT gone. Y'all might give up on him. Fine. I don't care. Do what you feel you must. I'll do this on my own. I will find him." Angel tightened his hold on her.
"Sorry Angel. I meant, WE will find him. I can't believe that you don't trust my instincts....trust Angel."

"Let's leave Willow. Before you say something you might regret." Angel pulled her towards the door. She shot one last hurt, angry glance at the room.

"We will find him" she promised.

**********

"Do you think we can find him?" Willow asked in a quiet voice.

Angel thought about it for a moment. "I honestly don't know. We both know he is still alive. It is going to be difficult with just the two of us, though."

"Well, we didn't have much luck when the whole gang looked, so maybe we'll get lucky."

"Maybe...." Angel said, a frown marring his handsome face.

"I hope so. It has been six days. I wish I had let him go with me that day. It's my fault he was here. He had planned to go meet you."

"Willow, shut up. Don't even start that whole brooding, blaming yourself game. I've lived through it, and it isn't pleasant. If you had taken him with you on Wednesday,
that guy would have waited and taken him some other time. You may have even been hurt or killed in the process. We can figure this out."

Willow smiled. "You're right, Dad."

Angel rolled his eyes at the nickname.

"Where should we start?"

"I don't really know. What we need is a damn miracle." Willow sighed.

Willow heard the doorbell ringing. "I'll get it." She went over and opened the door. A look of confusion, surprise, and happiness filled her face. Angel got up, curious as
to who would cause such a reaction. (Buffy must have wised up or maybe Oz. He was unable to attend their little meeting, so he probably heard about it by now)...he
thought. When he saw who Willow was greeting, he froze. (What the...How???)
 

~Part: 23~ Unforseen Allies

"So, chap, why don't you tell me why I am here?" Spike asked the man.

"Would you like to hear I found out about you William?"

"Sure thing. I'm getting bored here."

The man took a chair and sat down. "My real name is not Bob. It is Althasius Roberto Davinshire. I like Bob. I have been looking for a master vampire for quite some
time. I have found several "masters" but none have had the true blood running through their veins. I was in South America last month. I had found a clan living under
the leadership of a chap who called himself Mathias."

Spike recognized the name.

"Well, I was planning on taking him, when I heard the most interesting thing. He was telling some of his friends about some fascinating news he had heard from the
states. It seemed that the famous William the Bloody had married a human...not just any human, the best friend of the slayer. Mathias and the others talked about this
while I listened. They made several remarks about the situation, but, in every voice, there was underlying fear when they spoke your name. It seemed that despite
your turning to the good side, they still feared you. Not one of them said anything negative about you directly. Well, after hearing that, I knew. Your blood had to be
more powerful than Mathias. Plus, you sounded much more interesting than he. So, I hopped on a plane and came to Sunnydale. Imagine my surprise to find that they
were correct to still fear you. Even while with the slayer, power surges through your veins. I decided then and there that it was time. So, now we will wait. Is there
anything you need?"

Spike sat in silence thinking over what he had heard. The news of his and Willow's relationship had spread as far as South America? He felt a smirk cross his face. They
all still feared him. That was good.

"Hey Al?"

"Yes William?"

"Fuck off."

**********

Willow moved forward and grabbed her in a hug.

"Drusilla....why are you here?"

The vampiress looked at the petite redhead. She could understand, now, Spike and Angel's obsession with her. She radiated innocence and warmth and intelligence.

"Miss Edith told me Spikey was in danger. I want to help. I had a vision of a dark place and a weird man. Spike is still alive. We will save him, won't we Father?" She
asked in her lilting voice.

A man stepped up behind her. He was older, appeared to be in his early 40s. He had black hair, silver running throughout it. Willow looked into grey eyes that were
filled with laughter and curiosity. He was a very striking man, both in appearance and attitude.

"Yes, sweets, we will. I promise. And you must be Willow." He took her hand."I am Nico...you may call me Nic."

Willow smiled. She liked him. He seemed a bit different from the other vampires she had met, even Spike and Angel. He reminded her a bit of Giles, distinguished yet
dangerous.

"Drusilla....Nico....please come in." Willow motioned them inside.

"Angelus...nice to see you again."

"Nic." Angelus walked forward and shook his hand. Their was respect and admiration in his tone.

"Daddy!" Dru wrapped Angel in her embrace, kissing his cheek softly.

Willow watched and smiled. (Angel asked for a miracle and we get Dru and Nic....should be interesting)

**********

"So, why don't you tell us what happened to Spike?" Nic asked as he and Dru took a seat on the couch.

Willow explained. Angel leaned against the fireplace, his body filled with tension.

"So, the "weird man" in Dru's vision came in and took him. It has now been six days and you think he is waiting for the full moon?" he asked Willow.

She nodded, "I would know if he were gone. So would Angel."

Angel looked at them, "He isn't a demon. I've asked around. No one has heard anything about it."

Willow looked at him, "Would they have admitted it to you?"

He looked at her, the anger in his eyes evident. They softened when they sensed her fear. "They would have told me. Trust me." He flashed an evil smirk.

"Angelus, did anyone hear of a new arrival in the weeks prior to the abduction?"

"No. The situation in Sunnydale is very delicate right now. Several vampires are fighting each other for control. They are all a bunch of newbies. They are on the look
out though, and have said they will contact me if they hear anything."

"Will they?"

Angel nodded. "Yes. Spike is my childe. Everyone here now knows what lengths I will go to to have him back where he belongs." He glanced at Willow and then back at
Nic. "I'm sure you understand what I am speaking of."

Nic nodded, smiling. It was nice to see Angelus again. He was very glad that he had not been on the receiving end of the questioning. Once before, in Berlin, he had
seen what Angelus had done to a vampire who had fed on his intended meal. It had been pure torture. This was his childe...his lover in danger this time. Nic slowly
shook his head, clearing the image.

"Father?"

"Yes baby?"

"Can I tell Willow about my vision now? I was real quiet while you spoke."

Nic smiled at his lovely temptress. He knew, now, that her little girl act was mostly just an act. It had been something that kept Spike by her side, to protect her. He
also knew that Spike had known this, and tolerated it out of affection for his dark goddess. She wasn't sane, but she wasn't as crazy as she liked to act.

"Yes lover. Tell Willow about your vision. Angelus, will you show me around town? We need to find a shelter for while we are here. I'd also like to get an idea of what
the town is like."

The dark haired vampire nodded. "Yes, that is a good idea. Maybe you, being an outsider, will recognize something we haven't."

"Wait..."Willow exclaimed. "You and Drusilla will stay here! We have plenty of room. I insist."

Angel looked at Nic and smiled, "I'll help you take your luggage up before we go. Don't even think about arguing with her. You won't win."

Drusilla smiled at her new family. She felt like she was finally home.

**********

"So, you didn't learn anything new?" Willow asked Angel.

"No. We have about two dozen vampires looking for Spike. If they hear anything, they are calling me or Nic immediately."

"Spikey is ok." Dru said from the stairs. "He is playing a video game."

"What?" Willow asked.

"I saw him. That weird little man was there. Spike was playing a game. The man was watching." Dru said, taking a seat by Willow.

"He is playing games? We are sitting here looking for him and he's playing games!" Willow demanded.

Dru smiled prettily. "He was bored."

"This doesn't make any sense. He is kidnapped, held by force, yet he is playing games with his kidnapper?"

"Sounds like Spike." A voice said from the kitchen. Nic came in and smiled. "He always did get bored easily. Angelus, do you remember that time in Milan?"

Angel looked at him and suddenly burst out laughing as the memory came to him. "That was great." He turned to Willow. "Nic is a bit of a practical joker.There was this
time in Milan that he...." He told Willow and Dru the story.

Willow had to laugh. She found herself liking Nic more and more. He was very good to Dru and seemed unlike any vampire she had met.

"Daddy....take me to see the stars?" Dru asked, her eyes shining expectantly.

Angel looked as though he were about to protest, when Willow stepped in. "Angel, she might be able to sense Spike if you take her for a walk."

"OK. Let's go, Princess." He motioned for Dru. She grabbed his arm, and kissed Nic on the way out. "Maybe the stars will sing to me..."

Nic shook his head, laughing.

"Why are you different?" Willow found herself asking.

Nic was surprised by the question. "I hadn't realized that I was."

"You are. I don't know what it is, but it is there. You don't have the hate that so many of you do. I also don't see the need for power."

"Willow, I am very old. I used to be like Spike and Angelus years ago. Now, I see no need. I still like to hunt. It is a thrill, but I no longer see the need to kill all of my
meals. I was never psychotic when I was human. I like to think I retained my best human qualities when I was embraced. It just took a couple hundred years for them
to resurface. Angelus and William seem to have gone through the same transformation. I see none of the hate in Angelus's eyes. He used to be a bit crazy."

Willow nodded. "I know. When he lost his soul, he was frightening. So, what you are saying is that some vampires get more mellow as they age?"

Nic laughed. "Mellow? No...I like to think that we mature. The need for blood is not as strong. I believe that after a certain number of years, those who wish, can
control their demon."

"Really? Wow....I never thought about it. You mean, it is kind of like when you turn into a teen-ager. That kind of makes sense." Willow thought about it.

Nic, seeing the look on Willow's face, smiled. He liked this young human. Her curiosity thrilled him. Yes, Drusilla was right. He did enjoy this town.

**********

"Daddy..." Dru whispered.

"Yes Dru?" Angel said, sighing.

"Miss Edith told me something but I don't want to tell Willow." She said softly.

Angel turned and looked at his childe. She was staring at the sky, looking at the stars.

"What is it Princess?"

"The fire burns brightly Daddy....if Spike is gone, the fire will die...angels will fall....the world will know such pain...the stars will weep....blood will run...."

Angel felt a chill spread through his blood at her words. She looked at him, her eyes bright. "We must find Spike. There is not a choice. Very bad things will happen if
we don't."

He nodded. "We WILL find him, Dru."

She smiled. "Did you like Magdalena?" she asked.

Startled, he looked at her. "What?"

"Silly Daddy...I sent her to you."

"Dru...explain yourself." He said, forcefully.

"I didn't want you going to that icky old slayer. The stars told me that you belonged with the fire and the ice. I sent Magdalena to help. I knew you wouldn't let me
help. She helped you didn't she Daddy?"

Angel sat on the bench. He couldn't believe it. "Yes, she did. Dru..."

"Yes daddy?"

"Thank you." he said, and smiled.

"Anything for my daddy." she kissed his cheek. "Do you like Nic?" she asked suddenly.

"Yes honey. I do. He seems good for you."

"He is....very good. We should go back now. Willow and Nic will be missing us." She took his hand in hers and they headed back to the house.

**********

Nic took out a notepad. "Let's see what we have so far, and then eliminate what we know is useless."

Willow had to hide a smile. She would love to get Nic and Giles together. Nic had proven to be a lover of research and order. She didn't know how he and Dru had fallen
in love, but they both seemed happy.

They started discussing what they knew, when the doorbell interrupted them.

"I'll get it." She got up and opened the door. "OZ!" she hugged him.

He pulled away and smiled. "How's my favorite girl?"

"What are you doing here? I thought y'all decided not to help anymore?"

He shook his head. "Nope, I'm helping. They aren't. I was never asked. So, what can I do?"

Willow pulled him inside and introduced him to the others. He seemed a bit taken back to see the two new vampires lounging in the living room.

"Nice wolfy..." Dru said, smiling. "Sit by me?"

He had to smile in return. (This should be interesting....)

Willow sat by Angel as they all filled Oz in what they knew.

He thought for moment. "This may be a stupid question....."

"What?" Nic asked.

"I'm sure you have all ready covered it."

"OZ!" Willow said in exasperation.

He smiled sheepishly. "What about the blood?"

"Huh?" Angel responded intelligently.

"The blood, man. If this guy has been keeping Spike, he had to be feeding him. The spells all call for fresh blood. He can't be starving Blondie. So, he has to be getting
blood somewhere."

"I'm such an idiot!" Willow said. "I can't believe we didn't think about this." She got up and hugged Oz, kissing his cheek. Dru leaned over and kissed his other one.
"Thank you .....thank you....thank you." Willow cried. "We have a lead."

Nic and Angel looked at each other, hiding a smile. The boy was mumbling that it was nothing as he looked around the room, his face turning as red as Willow's hair.

"So, where is he getting the blood?" Nic asked.

Willow and Angel looked at each other, smiling at their new lead.

"Willy" they said in unison.

**********

Spike through the controller at the tv.

"Bloody damn game....I hit that damn demon before it killed me. Did it accept that? Nooooooo....it flashes that damn Game Over repeatedly ....taunting me."

"William....speaking to yourself again?"

Spike turned cold blue eyes to the man who had dared interrupt his tirade.

"Go to hell, Alfalfa."

"Would like me to get you another game?"

"NO.....what I would like is to be released from this damn room....what I would like is to go to my house and take my woman to bed and fuck her senseless until she
moans my name in ecstasy and passes out from pleasure....what I would like is for you to leave me the FUCK alone."

"Sorry. No can do. Here's your dinner. If you'd like, I'm sure I could manage to bring Willow to you here. Of course, I'd have to kill her after you...well, did what you
said. I do so hate violence though. I'd much prefer you just sit and play your little game."

Spike wanted to go over and rip is throat open....maybe perform a few acts of torture before ending his miserable life. Unfortunately, he was unsure if this idiot
actually had Willow under some spell. If he did, his death would mean her death. Spike ran a hand through his blond hair. If he had to listen to him prattling on much
longer, he knew he might have to risk the chance.

(Willow....where the fuck are you?) he stared at the bag of blood in disgust.

**********

The sound of knocking erupted. Willow got up and opened the door. On the doorstep, Buffy, Xander, Cordelia and Giles stood. They looked at her, smiling uneasily.

"We want to help." Cordelia said simply.

"Yeah....screw the vamps for a few nights. We need to find Blondie. He owes me a rematch." Xander said hesitantly.

"Umm...well, yes, as Xander said, the vampire population can go a few more nights without the slayer." Giles stuttered.

"Can we help?" Buffy begged. She felt as though she had let her friend down, again.

Willow smiled and ran to hug them all.

"Thank you. We could really use the help. We think we may have found something. Come in."

She led them into the living room. She heard startled gasps behind her, and smiled. Dru was sitting on the sofa reading through a book of spells. Oz was sitting in a
chair, playing a chord on his guitar and humming.

"Is that Drusilla?" Buffy asked in disbelief.

Drusilla looked up, her eyes narrowing. "Slayer...." she hissed.

"Buffy. Sit. Dru. Stay." Willow commanded.

Both women looked at her and obeyed.

"We are going to all get along, at least until we find Spike. No name calling, no hissing, no stakes. Got it?"

The women looked at each other, hate in their eyes. They nodded. Neither of them wanted to risk upsetting Willow.

"Good." She heard a noise behind her.Turning, her breath caught. She heard gasps behind her. (A lot of that going around today...)

Angel walked into the room. He was wearing those delicious tight black leather pants, a dark blue velvet shirt, and black boots. He had an evil grin on his face.
(Wow....I may have to encourage leather from now...)Willow thought.

Willow went to him and kissed him.

"Uh....did we miss something?" Buffy asked.

Angel looked at her, surprised. "No. Did I miss something?"

Willow smiled, "They felt guilty. They want to help. Hey Nic." She said smiling behind him.

"Hey sweets." Nic looked at Angel and smiled. "Angelus...are you ready for some fun?"

"Wait...who are you?"

Nic turned and looked Buffy over. "I'm Nic."

"Oh...Dru's boy toy. I've heard about you."

"Little tree, you'd better tell your friend to watch her mouth. You never know when someone might hit her in it." Nic winked at Willow.

"Nic....let's go have a nice chat with Willy. I have a feeling we may get lucky tonight." Angel said, smiling. He kissed Willow hard. Nic did the same to Drusilla before
they headed out the door. Willow kissed Nic on the cheek and wished them luck.

"Oh...Boys...." Willow called after them. "Be careful. Blood is SO hard to get out of velvet."

They laughed as they disappeared into the night.

"Weird much?" Cordelia asked no one in particular.

**********

Spike heard a loud crash. Then, the door to the room burst open. Angelus stood in the doorway.

"You've been a naughty boy, William. Sitting here playing video games while letting the rest of us worry. You will have to be punished for that."

Spike felt a grin slide onto his face. "Sorry Old man. I got bored. Where's Alfalfa?"

"You mean that weird little man?" A voice spoke up behind Angel.

"NIC?" Spike asked.

"Well, of course. Who else would Dru drag over to the states to save your sorry ass?"

"Oh, but what a fine ass it is..." Spike winked at him. "Besides, my ass didn't need saving. The damn idiot didn't even lock the door."

'Then why are you still here?" Angel asked, eager to hear the excuse his childe would think of.

"He threatened Willow. I'd die for her. AND I knew I'd be rescued so why fight?"

Angel smiled. "You KNEW you'd be rescued?"

"Hell yes. You see, I've got this possessive sire that has a knight in shining armor complex." He explained to Nic. "Besides, Willow would have his balls if he ignored me."

Nic laughed, glad to see the blond vampire hadn't changed.

"We'd better get him back to Willow or else she'll have all of our balls." He replied.

"Yeah....you're right. Hey, how did you blokes find me?"

The two men looked at each other and shared a smile. "Long story....we'll tell you later." They both said. Spike just shook his head, glad to be free of that weird man.

"Great. I'm gone for how long and the whole damn world goes crazy. Well, don't worry folks....Spike is back and better than ever."

"Oh great..." he heard voices behind him mumbling.
 

~Part: 24~ Alfalfa

Spike sat on the couch, Willow in his lap. All he wanted to do was take her upstairs and fuck her until she couldn't walk. He hadn't been in her in two weeks. (TWO
WEEKS....) But no, he was stuck with the whole damn slayerette gang, his bloody sire, and two damn vampires all piled in his living room asking dumb questions.

A loud whistle sounded in the room. Everyone stopped and looked at Nic. He was smiling.

"OK...one at a time please. Angel, tell them what we found out."

"Yes Sir...Nic Sir." Angelus faked saluted.

"Kids..." Nic grumbled good naturedly before sitting by Dru.

"We persuaded Willy to tell us if anyone new was in town. He told us about some guy who had recently started buying from him. With a bit more persuasion, he gave
us an address. Nic and I convinced some of the locals to assist us and we headed over there."

"This strange little man answered the door. Angelus could feel Spike so we knew it was the right place. We got ourselves invited in and disposed of him." Nic continued
the story.

"We got Spike and came back here." Angelus finished.

"Spike....what about you?" Willow asked snuggling closer in his grip.

"Well, Alfalfa was planning on draining my blood. He never said what for. He heard about me from Mathias in Brazil. Seems our wedding made the news Luv. He felt he
had to have me. I know that I had to willingly give him the blood for the spell to work."

"That's why he got you the games and tv?"

"Yeah...Alfalfa had to keep me happy. He SOOO detested violence. He threatened Willow if I tried anything. That's it. End of story. He was just a weird creepy little
man."

The others looked at each other. This had been too weird, even for the Hellmouth.

"We'd better get going. I need to patrol."

"No need slayer. Angelus and I talked the locals into taking the night off. You are free to go home and relax." Nic said smiling.

Buffy and Giles looked at each other. Buffy shrugged and said, "Okey dokey. But if I hear about any deaths happening tonight, I'll come after you."

"Take the night off. You look like you need it." Nic replied. Dru and Cordelia both snickered, looking at each other in surprise over their shared amusement.

"Well, chaps, not to be rude, but I plan on taking Willow upstairs now and shagging her until sometime next week. Nice to know you all care and all that mushy stuff.
Don't bother us, ok ducks?" He pulled Willow up the stairs after him.

"See y'all later...." She called down the stairs. "Angel....are you coming?"

They heard the door slam and then a playful scream.

"Looks like things are back to normal all ready." Angel remarked, before heading up the stairs after his lovers.

Nic looked at the others. "Are they always like this?"

The slayerettes looked at each other and grinned. "Yep...."

Nic slowly shook his head, smiling. "Should be an interesting visit then."

Dru looked at him, and pulled him down for a kiss. The others took that as their cue to leave.

"Goodbye....see you later...." They called as they left.

Dru looked after them and smiled. She hadn't once felt the urge to kill any of them, except that dirty old slayer. Things in Sunnydale looked like they might be fun. She
turned back to Nic and pulled him to her. (Very Fun...)
 

~Part: 25~ Diversions

Spike has been back for seven hours. He still won't let me leave the bed. I am feeling rather exhausted. He seems different somehow. I don't know what happened, but
I am so thankful that Angel is here to help him relieve his desires. I don't think I can move.

"Let's take a dip in the jacuzzi..."I hear whispered seductively in my ear. I look into shining blue eyes. Is he not tired yet? Grumbling, I get up and follow him into the
bathroom. I see Angel sleeping still. Lucky dog...The jacuzzi was an Angelus purchase. He thought it looked like fun. I watch as Spike gets into the tub, admiring his
legs, his ass...his back. I never thought I would find a back sexy. Of course, on Spike, I find everything erotic.

"Join me." he orders softly.

I feel apprehension spread through me. There is a tone in his voice that I haven't heard before. Holding back my fear, I decide that this is probably just another game.
As I climb into the tub, he tells me to sit on his lap, facing away from him. I do as he requests. His arms reach around my body to pull me close. His chest n against my
back, his face at my neck and hair, and his hands are lightly caressing my belly. The bubbles are going off all around us, making it all very sensual. He lightly kisses the
back of my neck. Oh, if he only knew what that did to me...His hands move up and are fondling my breasts very gently, then leave again.

Suddenly, it is as though he has three pairs of hands. I feel him touching me everywhere all at once. Are they his hands or the bubbles? I can no longer tell. I feel his
fingers dipping between my legs, gliding up and down my thighs, grazing the outside of my lips, but never quite touching my core. I find myself wriggling in ecstasy, my
initial fears completely forgotten. I am getting caught up in the most beautiful sensations. His hands come up to my face, tracing the outline, feeling me, memorizing
my face, still kissing the back of my neck.

"Spike..." I moan, over and over, until he finally flips me around to face him.

I can feel his erection and reach out to touch it. He scolds me, "Never assume you can touch me without permission. You must always ask first."

Surprised, I ask, "Please....let me touch you."

"I want you to ride me, Willow. Guide me to your sweet, wet hold and impale yourself on me."

His speech arouses me. I position myself so that I can feel the head of his cock brushing against me, slowly opening, and sighing with relief as I finally sink upon him,
grasping the entire length of him until he has completely filled me.

I start to move up and down, the buoyancy of the water assisting me. My eyes never leave his.

"Oh Spike....It feels so good to feel you so deep inside me." I continue up and down, up and down. Remembering his words, I ask, "Please Spike...May I kiss you?"

In reply, he pulls my face toward his and takes my lips captive. He uses very slow, torturous kisses, keeping in rhythm with the up and down strokes, his hands now
gripping my ass as he starts to pick up the pace. Oh Goddess, it feels so wonderful. I start to tingle all over.

Before I realize what is happening, I start to come. He convulses at the same time. I feel his teeth enter my neck swiftly. In exhaustion, my head falls onto his
shoulder. He gently laps at the wound.

"I missed this." he says into my ear. "Its been too long."

He stands, carrying me with him. He takes me to the room and gently lays me on the bed beside Angel. I feel his gaze watching me as I drift off to sleep.

* * * * *

I awaken with a start. There is something very cold rubbing across my breasts. Ice! I try to move, finding my arms tied securely to the bed. I look into chocolate eyes
and a wicked smile.

"Wakey...wakey...." Angel says.

"I'm awake...I'm awake."

He chuckles and removes the ice. He begins to run his cold, wet hands across my face, down my neck, all over my entire body. He removes his hand, only to have
them return quickly. Leather gloves! Oh Goddess...I love the smell of Angel and leather. It instantly awakens my darkest desires. Again, he rubs his leather-clad hands
across my face, down my sides and stomach, and down between my legs.

"Ever been fucked by leather before?" he asks curiously.

Oh Goddess....when he talks like that, it makes me crazy. An instant rush of heat and wetness travels directly to my core.

"No...no I haven't" I manage to stutter. As I say it, I feel his gloved finger slowly begin to penetrate me, working its way deeper and deeper. I feel so perverse, but all
I can do is respond, bucking my hips at him and causing him to go deeper still.

I am mad with longing, incoherent, wanting him so badly....

"Oh Angel....Angelus..." I continue yelling over and over as his finger pumps in and out of me. Oh, this man is incredible. His gloved thumb is stroking my clit the whole
while his finger is penetrating me.

"Oh...please don't stop." I moan.

He stops, but keeps the gloves on. He comes up to kiss me. I am moaning, dying inside, desperately needing release. This is torture. He leaves me momentarily,
returning with an object. It is an ice bucket, and it appears to be full. He flashes a sexy smile as he places the bucket on the nightstand. I hear him reach for a piece
of ice. I tense, not knowing what to expect. He places it directly on my mouth. He rubs the ice over my lips, getting them cold and very wet.

"Suck it" he commands.

I part my lips instinctively, and start to suckle it. I can feel it melting all over my face and running down my throat. He pulls it out, then pushes it back in, out and in,
out and in, thoroughly fucking my face with an ice cube. He makes me suck it until it has completely melted. My lips are frozen. He reaches down and kisses them, his
tongue entering my cold mouth.

He reaches for another ice cube. This one touches my chin and he slides it down my throat, outline Spike's bite....between my breasts, and finally to the nipple, which
hardens instantly. He teases one nipple, then the other as the ice cube slowly melts. I can feel it dripping down between my breasts, down my stomach and sides. This
is so erotic. I am cold, shivering, but I don't want him to stop. The ice cube gradually disappears. He reaches for another one.

This time, the ice cube begins it journey in the middle of my stomach, moving around in circles, going lower He takes the ice cube completely down the length of my
leg, across the bottom of my foot, back up, until it too disappears.

He reaches for another one, this one centering on my clit. The first touch is jolting, as he slides it around. The ice cube melts down across my lips, causing me to arch
up. Goddess, I want to feel him inside of me. He takes the cube lower, pressing it between my lips. It is so cold. I can barely stand it. I feel at my entrance, opening,
spreading me, demanding entrance.

He continues to tease the opening for a minute longer, the cube now melting and dripping directly into my ass. I am mindless now., no longer capable of conscious
thought, relying solely on my senses. All I can do is feel. Then, without warning, he nudges the rest of the cube inside, my lips involuntarily swallowing the intruder.
The ice cube is melted instantly. I have felt so aroused. I want him so badly.

He stands beside the bed, totally naked, with his huge stiff erection staring at me. I watch as he begins to stoke his enormous cock. I am hypnotized, watching him
manipulate it, working it up and down, faster and faster. Impossibly, it appears to be growing larger by the second. I lick my lips. He gets a look in his eyes, and is on
me instantly. Oh Goddess....he sinks into me deeply. My hands strain at the bonds. I want to touch him. He pounds into me, over and over...deeper and deeper. I meet
each thrust. The feel of the his leather clad hands holding my ass turns me on more that I want to admit. Finally, I feel my orgasm come. I shout his name, clenching
him tightly into me. Within moments, his teeth are in my breast. Soon, he shoots himself into me.

Dazed, I look into his eyes. "Mine." he whispers before claiming my mouth in a bruising kiss.

My eyes see Spike sitting beside the bed, his naked cock limp between his legs. He brings his hand to my face, his come soaked finger outlining my lips. I lick his finger
clean, as Angel releases me from my bindings. Exhausted, I turn over and fall asleep.
 

~Part: 26~ Remembered Past

"Where do you think you're going?" the words asked in a menacing tone.

Willow turned around and looked into Spike's gaze. "I'm meeting Buffy and Nic at Giles' apartment. Giles has questions for him, and it was thought that me being there
would make it easier. Remember, I told you about this yesterday."

Spike scowled. He got out of the bed, careful not to wake Angel. "No. You are staying here. I'm not through with you yet."

Willow looked at him in surprise. "Not through with me? What am I....a bag of chips?"

"That's not what I meant."

"I don't care what you meant. I have been in your bed for more than 24 hours. I need to get out. I need to eat. I promised Buffy I'd be there."

"Buffy again. Why is it you always choose her over me? I thought I was the one you loved." Spike asked, ready to fight.

Willow rolled her eyes. "Why is it you are always forcing me to choose? She is my best friend. She doesn't know Nic and is a bit scared of him. I am going to be there
for moral support. Now, get out of my way."

"No. I'm not allowing you to leave. You are mine, not hers. Now, get undressed and get back into bed. We have two weeks to catch up on. I need a good shag, Red."

Willow was stunned. He had the gall to order her back to bed because he wasn't through with her? She could feel her temper slip. "MOVE SPIKE!"

He smiled a cold smile. "Make me luv. Let's see what you can do."

Willow heard Angel stirring from his sleep. She looked into his sleepy eyes, begging for his help. She couldn't believe it when he smiled at Spike and said, "Spike. Control
your woman. Get her back over here. We have the entire night ahead of us."

Feeling her face turn red, she pushed past a surprise Spike and ran downstairs. She had never felt so humiliated and used in all her life. She fought back the tears. She
needed to calm down before she got to Giles' place. Things had been so hectic lately, and she didn't want this to become yet another fight between her and Spike.
She was beginning to wonder why he was even with her. He hadn't shown any feelings hardly since Angel had joined them. She took a deep breath and drove to meet
the others. Enough time to think self pity later. Maybe Spike and Angel were just joking with her. They'd probably apologize for their behaviour when she returned. She
smiled...knowing they would. They had to.

**********

"Is everything OK Willow?" Giles asked as he let the red head in.

"Yeah....things are just spiffy. Hey Buff. Hey Nic. Sorry I'm late."

"No problem. Willow, are you sure you're ok?" Buffy asked her friend.

"Things are fine. So, what did I miss?"

Nic smiled at his new friend. She was hiding something, but he knew it wasn't his place to ask. "I've been telling Rupert and the Slayer about my past. I was just
getting to the current years."

"Oh wow...I am late. Well, you'll have to fill me in sometime. Don't let me interrupt." She sat beside Buffy and listened as the attractive vampire continued.

"I have been living in Paris since the last world war. It is a beautiful city. What may interest you, Rupert, is my connection to the council."

"What?" Giles asked. "The Council?"

Nic smiled. "Yes. I am what you might call a special friend. I am master of a clan in Paris. Actually, some of my clan extends over the far corners of Europe. I have all
ready told Willow my beliefs. Members of my family do not kill their food. If they do, I stake them myself. In exchange for this, I protect them and provide for them. I
very rarely lose a member. I have been practicing this for the last few hundred years."

"What about Spike and Angelus? Didn't you run with them for awhile?"

Nic smiled. "Yes. They are quite a lovely bunch of characters. They were a bit too young for me though. I went on to London. The council allows me and my family free
reign as long as we continue to not kill. I also assist them when they have problems in Paris. The council is actually on first name basis with several members of my
family. Does that surprise you?"

Giles nodded. "I didn't think it was the council's habit to alliance itself with what we are destined to kill."

"Well, it is a new arrangement. I made it with several members about a hundred years ago. So far, things are running smoothly. I take care of the rogue element
throughout Europe and they allow us to survive. If you doubt me, contact Mr Livingham. He will vouch for me."

Giles was amazed. He had no idea that the council actually made treaties with any family of vampires. He excused himself and went into his study. He had some phone
calls to make.

"So, that means you're on my team then?" Buffy asked.

"Not quite. Let's say, neither of our sides want the world erased. I like humans. I have for a good hundred years or more. As I told Little Tree, here, I grew up. Most of
our kind does eventually. It is more dominant in Europe."

"That may be because there are older vamps there. Here, all we get are the crazy psychos who want to release the hellmouth." Willow put in.

Nic smiled. "Yes, you may be right."

"So....can you tell me about the slayers you have met? I mean, in the years you've been around, you must have met dozens?" Buffy asked eagerly.

Willow got up and said, "If you two will excuse me, I'd better get back."

"Uh oh....another Spike fight?" Buffy asked.

Willow nodded and made a face. "The same old thing. This time, Angel took up Spike's side. I think I'd better get back and see what happens next."

"Just another daily episode in Willow's continuing saga, my life with two jealous used to be completely evil vampire masters." Buffy smiled.

Nic watched the young girl leave. She seemed to have to let this argument get to her. He hoped everything would be fine when she returned. He liked the young
mortal and hated to see her unhappy. He turned back to the slayer.

(Who would have thought I'd be telling stories to a slayer without a stake in my heart? Things in Sunnydale are definitely different)

He smiled at Buffy and began to tell her stories of past slayers he had met.

**********

Willow walked into the house and went upstairs. The house was dark. She heard groans and moans coming from her bedroom.

(Angel and Spike....)she thought smiling.

Carefully, so as not to disturb them, she opened the door. What she saw and heard made her take a step back.

(NO!)

"I've been so naughty daddy....oh....yes"

Drusilla was laying on HER bed. Angel was fucking her like a mad man. Spike was letting her suck his cock. His eyes were half closed in pleasure.

Willow stumbled. Tears came to her eyes. Her gaze collided with blue eyes. They looked through her, cold and empty.

"So, you decided to come back? Well, luv, sorry but we found someone else to play with tonight. Why don't you run back to your slayer. We'll be ready for you
tomorrow." Spike said in a dead voice.

Angel never halted in his thrusts. Drusilla was moaning louder, taking all of Spike down her throat. Spike closed his eyes, shutting Willow's shaken face from his mind.
(Teach her to choose the slayer over me.....over us....)

Willow turned and ran down the stairs. She had to talk to Nic. Maybe he'd understand why Spike was doing this. Buffy might have an idea too.

(I can't believe he touched her....in OUR bed....that bastard) anger quickly replaced her surprise and disgust.

(How dare he? Is that all I am? A convenient fuck? Did he ever feel anything or was he just biding his time until his little princess showed up?) The questions kept
coming.

She drove back to Giles' place, determined to find some answers.

**********

"They were BOTH fucking Dru?" Buffy said in anger.

Willow nodded. Nic felt sorry for the girl.

"Willow, you should know that he was lashing out....trying to hurt you."

"I know. He succeeded. I mean, I shared him with Angel. Wasn't that good enough? Why Dru? This hurts too much. I feel awful." She began to cry.

Nic moved to her and wiped a tear away. "He wanted to make you regret choosing Buffy over him. He knew that if you walked in on him and Dru, that you might regret
having left."

"Why are you so OK with this? I mean, Dru is your woman. Aren't you pissed?" Buffy asked.

"Slayer, I am a vampire. We have no more morals. If Dru chooses to fuck Angel and Spike, that is her choice. It will be my bed she is in tomorrow. She belongs to me.
That is all we really care about."

"Oh...."

"I don't think I can live like this." Willow whispered. "I can share with Angel. I love him too, just not as much as Spike. I can't share with anyone he feels like fucking in
revenge against me."

"Too late. You made that choice when you mated with him. With them both. From what I can tell, it is a one time thing. Spike has always liked to hurt the people who
hurt him. He knew this would kill you. He expects you to run back to him crying or to be angry and make him fetch you. That is what your relationship appears to
consist of."

"I know. I hate it. We never have more than a month together, before one of us is gone for one reason or another. What should I do?" she asked the vampire and the
slayer.

Nic slowly smiled. "I have an idea."

"Yes?"

"Buffy, could you get away for a few days? Maybe tell people you are going to visit someone?"

Buffy nodded. "Yeah, probably. I could go see my dad. Xander and the gang could watch things here. Why?"

"You look stressed. Willow is stressed. I think we all need a bit of breathing room."

"What?" Willow asked, not understanding.

"Here's the plan. Dru belongs to me. I don't mind that she stepped out this time. They are both her past. But I need to make sure she knows that I know. I think it is
time to remind them who THEY belong to."

Buffy started to smile. "I like this guy."

"I have a plane. I am suggesting that you both accompany me for a visit to my home in New Orleans. Let them worry about us for awhile."

"But Nic...No offense. I like you but I don't LIKE you..." Willow trailed off embarrassed.

"Good heavens. NO! Not that. I love Drusilla. Buffy will go with us. BUT they will not know that Buffy is with us. They will think that, in retaliation, you and I ran away
for a little vacation."

"Spike would never expect that.....he'd be eaten away with jealousy..."Willow started to smile.

"Exactly. Let him sit and think about what he has caused with his little tricks. We will plan it as though we ran away together. It will be such great fun....a very good
joke."

"I like it Wills. Spike will be crazy."

"Serves the bastard right. Hell, I should go fuck the damn football team at Tulane...do they even have a football team?"

"I wouldn't go that far, Wills. I mean, then you'd be no better than he is. Let him worry that he has lost you. I bet he'll never try such a stupid stunt again."

"OK. I'll do it. Buffy, will Giles back up your story? We should make them think you left this afternoon. Then, Spike and Angel will think I always planned to meet Nic. It
is evil, but they deserve it. Besides, I've always wanted to see New Orleans."

"No prob. Giles is cool. I so need a vacation. I am feeling so sick and tired of this place."

"You look very stressed Slayer. So, is it a go? Don't worry about clothes and such. I'll buy you both all you need when we arrive."

The girls looked at each other and then at Nic.

"You have a plane? a house in new orleans? and you want to buy us clothes? What the hell do you do, old man?" Willow asked smiling.

"Good investments. Do you really think I want to end up on the streets in a few hundred years? The plane allows me to travel whereever and whenever I wish. It is
very comfortable. So, is it a go? I'll call the airport and have them ready the plane. Slayer, talk to you watcher. This is going to be such fun. I can't wait to see their
faces when we get back and they realize it was all a joke." he wandered off to use the phone, happiness and mischief filling his smile.

"Weird guy." Buffy said to her friend.

Willow nodded. "Yes, but he is saving me right now. I really need to think without Spike and Angel around. And, besides, I heard that Nic always did love a practical
joke. This should be a doozy."

"Are you worried about Spike and Angel?"

"No. They have Drusilla after all. I'm going to forget all about them and enjoy this trip. We will have a lot of fun. Hell, let them realize what they might lose."

Buffy smiled and went to tell Giles. She couldn't wait for a chance to relax. Maybe she could start sleeping better.

"Goodbye Sunnydale....Hello New Orleans...." Willow whispered softly, looking out the window.
 

~Part: 27~ Breathing Room

Spike got out of the bed and walked to the window. He hated this. He was disgusted with himself and with Angel. Every time he closed his eyes, he could see Willow's
face. The hurt and pain....he'd caused it. He had been led around by his ego yet again. He couldn't understand what it was about his relationship with Willow that
made him act like such an ass. He hated feeling like this. He looked back at the bed, and groaned.

(Bloody hell....Drusilla....Well, you damn wanker, you wanted to hurt her. This sure should do that.)

He, Angel and Dru had been talking about old times, when they had felt that familiar spark. He had to admit that he knew Willow would find out. He had wanted her to
find out. She had left him, again, to go to the slayer. He hated to admit that he was jealous of that blonde bimbo, but he was. That is the only reason he had allowed
himself to fuck Dru. He couldn't even believe that it was due to some past love on his part. It was to hurt Willow. He only hoped that Willow would understand. He and
Angel would have hell to face in the morning. He knew Nic wouldn't mind. Nic was old world. As long as he and Angel didn't hurt Dru, Nic would be fine. Willow had to
understand. He would have to make her realize that he had made a terrible mistake. He couldn't lose her. He loved her. He knew she loved him. He would convince her
to give them another chance. It would never happen again, he knew this for sure. He never wanted to feel as disgusted as he did. He and Angel had been so stupid.
Willow wasn't a vampire. Why could they not remember that?

(You are a bloody bastard, Spike. You had better get good at begging m'boy. It's gonna take some convincing to get Red back this time. I'll do it though. I'll sweep her
off her pretty feet and make her forget every rude thing I said. I have to.)

He turned back and headed to the bed. He slipped in beside Angel. Angel turned and looked at him.

"What did we do?" he asked softly.

Spike scowled. "We hurt the one person in this world we truly love."

Angel nodded. "We'll get her back tomorrow. She'll understand." he said firmly. "She has to..." his voice trailed off.

"I hope so, mate. I truly hope so."

* * * * *

"No answer."

"Fuck. She must have the bloody phone off the hook. Call the watcher."

Angel dialed Giles number. "It's his machine."

"Bloody hell. Where is the little chit?"

"Nic took the fire away..." Dru called to them as she entered the room.

"What?" Angel asked.

Dru smiled. "Willow was hurting....Nic will make it all better. They left last night."

Spike went over and grabbed Dru's arm, his eyes flashing with anger. "What did you say?"

Dru whimpered as the pain hit her. "Nic and Willow left. He didn't want me to worry. He left me a note." She showed him the paper.

Angel grabbed it from her hand and read:

Dru---

darling......Willow is upset. She and I have decided to take a vacation. I want to show my little tree the world. She needs to feel appreciated right now. I am not
upset over this evening. I understand that you were reliving the past. I'm planning on doing that now. Please forgive me. Know that I love you, but Willow needs me
now. I will bring her home safely when she wants to come back. It has been many years since I've had such a curious companion. This should be great fun. Please
keep Spike and Angel in one piece. Be safe, baby. I'll call you if the opportunity arises. Willow is eager to begin our adventure, so I must go now. Tell Spike that I will
take very good care of Willow...just as he has done with you.

Eternally---
Nic

"Where did he go Dru?" Angel asked, his tone menacing.

"I wouldn't know." She replied, trying to get free from Spike's grasp.

He turned cold eyes to her, holding on to he arm tighter. "You'd better find out, princess. If that bastard touches Willow, I'll shove a stake so far up his ass..."

Dru felt anger. She pulled away from, scratching his arm. "You will not touch Nic. He is doing nothing that you BOTH didn't do yesterday. What is wrong with Willow
sharing her bed with him? You both shared it with me. Nic won't hurt her. He likes her." She turned and went upstairs, muttering under her breath.

"Spikey hurt his princess....Daddy yelled at me...."

Spike and Angel looked at each other.

"We fucked up royally this time." Angel said, sitting in the chair and resting his forehead on his hands.

"Willow wouldn't do anything with that sod. He's probably trying to seduce her right now, that bastard." Spike said, lost in thoughts of his Willow with Nic.

"She was very hurt...very vulnerable. They both hit it off fairly well during the search for you.....If Nic wishes, he can be lost for years," worry crept into Angel's
voice....

"NO!" Spike shouted. "NO. I am not thinking about that. Willow will be back. She has to come back. She is my WIFE for pity's sake. She's probably over at the
Slayer's.....Nic is just playing another joke....I don't know what I'd do if she left me for him....Not going to happen. Nope. She's probably off somewhere thinking. I'll
give her some time....let her remember what an ass I am...."

"You're babbling..." Angel said, smiling softly.

Spike looked at him, blue eyes captured brown. Both filled with regrets and sadness. "I miss her all ready...she isn't coming back soon is she?" Spike whispered.

"I don't think so." Angel replied quietly.

"I'll wait for her....we'll wait for her." Spike decided. "She belongs with us, not with that bloody wanker. She'll realize that...hopefully very soon."

* * * * *

"This is fantastic!"

Willow felt herself smiling at her friend's exclamation. They had arrived in New Orleans several hours before dawn. Because of Nic's condition, they had immediately
headed for his home. It was a beautiful two story house in the Garden District. Sun proof, of course. She and Buffy had had a short nap, but both were too excited to
sleep. Nic had given them a credit card and told them to go have fun. They were to meet him back at his house at dusk.

She and Buffy had headed to the French Quarter. She had often read about the city, but seeing it was unbelievable. In the light of day, it was a bit dirty, old and
crowded. But she loved it. The french quarter seemed alive. The buildings were amazing. There was such a sense of history...it had almost a magic aura around it.
Even Buffy had noticed that feeling.

They had dined on beignets at the Cafe Du Monde then headed out to buy some clothes at Canal Place. It was fantastic to have a credit card with no limit. She and
Buffy had bought enough to get them through the next week or so. It was the first time she had been truly carefree since....well, in a long time it seemed. She didn't
know how she could ever thank Nic for all that he was doing. It seemed rather strange for her to be in debt to a master vampire. He was treating her and Buffy as he
would his children. She couldn't believe that Buffy had accepted him so easily. Nic just had that way about him though. She figured even his victims couldn't help but
like him.

They sent their new wardrobes back to Nic's with the driver. He actually had a driver for when he was in town. It all amazed her. They decided to spend the remainder
of the day browsing through some of the antique stores along Royal Street. Nic planned to have them meet some of his children that lived in town that evening for
dancing and dinner on Bourbon Street. They both wanted to get back early enough to make themselves beautiful. It wasn't everyday that the slayer and her friend got
escorted around New Orleans by a bunch of wealthy vampires. Willow also wanted to call home....She felt the need to hear Spike's voice, even though she didn't want
to talk to him. She was still mad at him. It wouldn't be that easy this time. She refused to let it be that easy. This time, she would not go back and forgive him. She
couldn't. She needed to think. Maybe tomorrow.....

After lunch at a small restaurant (she tried jambalaya---good but quite spicy) they headed back to Nic's with their new purchases. Willow was looking forward to
meeting his children. She was curious as to whether they would seem like him or like the other vamps she was used to. It should be an interesting evening.

* * * * *

"Beautiful" Nic said as Willow and Buffy came down the stairs. His guests turned and watched the girls curiously.

"Willow....Buffy....I would like for you to meet my children."

"This is Alan....Marie....Ettiene.....Luc.... Karen....and Simone." He motioned to the group surrounding him.

"Children, these are the new friends I spoke of. Willow and Buffy. Buffy is the slayer in Sunnydale."

Willow put a face to each name. Alan--middle thirties when he was turned. Red hair....nice eyes. Marie---another older woman....frizzy brown
hair....Ettiene...wow...green eyes....brown hair...early 20s....Luc....another WOW....dark blond hair....blue eyes....early twenties... yummy.... Karen... .appeared to be
in her early twenties..brown hair....blue eyes....Simone....blonde hair....brown eyes...all very attractive people. They seemed friendly. They were looking at her and
Buffy in amusement. She realized that she had been caught staring.

"Hello." She said, feeling her face turn red.

Luc stepped forward and kissed her hand. "Enchante mademoiselle." His blue eyes sparkling. Willow smiled at the handsome vampire. (He's no Spike, but he's cute.)

Buffy looked at them all and smiled. "Hi there."

"So, this is the slayer?" Simone asked Nic.

Nic nodded. "Yes....one of the best I've ever seen."

Marie's eyebrows rose."Better than Vanessa?" she asked curiously.

"Much better."

They looked at Buffy with respect and admiration. She felt herself turning red at their stares. She wasn't used to vampires admiring her work. Ettiene stepped forward
and offered her his arm.

"May I escort you to dinner?" he asked politely. She found herself smiling into his green eyes.

"Of course." She took his arm.

She noticed that Luc had captured Willow's arm and was leading her out the door. Nic watched with a smile. He waved for the others to join them. He had several
things planned for the evening. Buffy and Willow both deserved a first rate experience. His children would help him ensure that they both remembered New Orleans with
fondness. He wondered if Spike and Angel had read his note yet. He knew Dru would show them, so he had made sure to make no mention of Buffy accompanying
them. He had also made sure to throw in several remarks that he knew Spike and Angel would catch.

(They hurt that dear girl. They deserve to suffer a bit....)

He went outside and joined his guests as they made their way to Arnaud's. He had reservations waiting.

* * * * *

Willow and Buffy were meeting Ettiene and Luc. They had spent the previous evening with the two handsome vampires after dinner, and had agreed to meet them
again tonight. Luc wanted to show them the New Orleans nightlife.

Willow had spent the day thinking about her situation. She had realized that she belonged with Spike and Angel. They were her lovers....her life. BUT they had pissed
her off. She did not intend to go back to Sunnydale and immediately fall into the same routine. She might know she belonged with them, but she planned to make them
worry about it. There was no need for them be let off that easily.

"Buffy...."

"Yeah Wills?"

"You ok?"

"Yes. I know it was that fish I had for lunch. It did bad things to my stomach." Buffy had been in the bathroom throwing up. She had thought that the fish tasted
funny, but figured it was the way it was supposed to taste. It had made her very sick. Luckily, after resting the afternoon, she was feeling better. She hated seafood
she decided.

"Do you want to stay in tonight? We can call them and tell them you're sick."

"NO! I feel much better. I puked it all up." Willow made a face and Buffy laughed. "I want to PARTY!"

Willow smiled glad to see her friend feeling better. "Me too. No worrying about what will happen when I get home. No Spike and no Angel."

"No slaying....no demons...no Cordelia."

"I think I want to get a tattoo."

"What?" Buffy looked at her friend in surprise.

Willow smiled. "I have this image in mind..." she explained it to her friend. Buffy started to laugh.

"I like it. We'll ask Luc to take us to get it. I might get one too. Except, I really hate needles...never mind. We'll get yours."

Willow laughed. Who would guess that the slayer was frightened of needles?

"Where did they say we were going tonight?" Buffy asked as she finished her makeup.

"Some place called Tips...also, they want to show us Bourbon Street...the REAL Bourbon Street as Luc said. He told me that Nic is rather old world about things, so he
only showed us the proper places yesterday. Simone may be joining us."

Buffy smiled. She and the blonde girl had hit off the previous night. "That would be fun. I can't believe these people are vampires. Why can't Sunnydale have vampires
like that?"

"I don't know...lucky I guess?" Willow said, making a face.

"Are we ready?" Buffy asked.

"Yes. I called home and Spike answered. He's still alive."

Buffy rolled her eyes. "Wills, promise me that I won't have to hear about Blondie or Deadboy tonight. Please? Pretty please?"

"OK....Promise. If I mention either of them to you, just smack me."

"With pleasure. Now, let's go. We have to undead hotties waiting on us."

Buffy and Willow left, saying goodbye to Nic. He told them to be safe and have fun.

(I plan to....) Willow thought as she saw Ettiene and Luc waiting.

* * * * *

"Let me see..."

Willow lifted her hair and pulled down the collar of her dress. She had a new tattoo.

"I don't get it..." Luc said. "What does it mean?"

She smiled. "It is an infinity sign...."

"I see that...looks like an eight. What's in the middle?"

"One side is a halo....the other is a railroad spike."

"See, it shows that she belongs to Spike and Angel for eternity." Buffy said smiling. She liked her friend's idea.

The two vampires looked at each other and then at the petite red head.

"You belong to Spike, as in William the Bloody and Angel, as in Angelus?" Ettiene said, in a shocked tone.

Willow nodded. "Yes. Didn't Nic mention that? They're the reason I had to get away."

"You're that Willow...."Luc mumbled. "I knew that your name was familiar. I heard that old Spike fell hard for a human. Knowing you, I can now understand it."

Willow felt herself smile. "Thank you, I think."

"I love the tattoo. Spike and Angel will, of course, get huge egos over it though. You'd better not let them see it until you're ready to take them back. I guess this
does mean that you plan to go back, right?" Buffy asked.

Willow nodded. "I'm theirs...for eternity. I have to live with that, even though I sometimes want to kill them both. I just don't plan to let them know that for awhile.
They won't be able to see this until I want them too."

"So, guys, where to now? We want to have some fun before we get stuck back in Sunnyhell." Buffy said, turning to the guys.

Luc and Ettiene shook their heads and smiled. They couldn't believe that they were out on the town with a slayer and the mate of two of the most feared vampires
they'd ever met. Things sure were interesting when Nic was in town. Never a dull moment.

"There is this great club a few blocks down. It has one of the best bands around. Let's go dance, drink, and have some fun." Ettiene said, joining one arm with Willow
and the other with Buffy. Luc grabbed Willow's other arm, and the foursome headed down Bourbon Street. The guys told stories and pointed out the sights...the girls'
laughter trailed after them.

* * * * *

"Willow...can we talk?"

"Of course....what's wrong?" Willow sat on her bed looking at her friend. They had stayed out all night, again, with Ettiene, Luc, Simone and Karen. They hadn't gotten
in until dawn. Then, they had chatted with Nic for a few hours as always. He had taken a fatherly interest in both girls.

"I'm late." Buffy said, running a hand through her blonde hair.

"Late? Late for what?" Willow asked, puzzled.

Buffy looked at her friend seriously. "I think I might be pregnant." she whispered.

"Oh my god..." Willow sat back. "Do you know for sure? How late are you?"

Buffy shrugged. "I don't know. With everything that has been happening, I hadn't really noticed. I've been feeling tired lately, and haven't been able to keep down my
dinner very often. I thought it was stress......it has to be stress. I can't be pregnant. There can not be a pregnant slayer. I'm sure there is some rule or something. Oh
God, what if I am and the council kills me? Or I have to give up my baby? Or I lose it while slaying? I can't do this alone.....Tyler is gone. I CAN NOT be pregnant."

"BUFFY! Calm down. You have had a lot of stress lately. That sometimes will make your cycle skip around. If you ARE pregnant, well, we'll worry about that if the time
comes. We need to get you one of those home tests or something. The council will not kill you. You all ready resigned. Now, I remember seeing a pharmacy two blocks
over. Let's go see what we can find. Don't worry. You have me." Willow hugged her friend, trying to reassure her.

Buffy wiped her eyes. "You're right, as always. I am probably just freaking out. I just know what to do. I'm sure its stress. It has to be stress. Let's go get that test
and prove me right. Ok?"

"Let's go. It will be all right, Buffy." Willow said, as they left the room. Her mind was running in all directions. She truly hoped that it was just stress. Her friend had
enough to deal with. She didn't need anything else to worry about.

* * * * *

"Nico....where the hell are you?" Spike demanded.

He heard a husky laugh. "Dear boy...you need not worry yourself about where I am."

"Let me talk to Willow."

"Sorry, no can do. She in unavailable at the moment. She is exhausted. I never would have guessed what a little spitfire she is."

Spike felt himself growing angry. "You keep your hands off of my wife!"

"It's not my hands you should worry about William....besides, she has all ready grown tired of me. I guess I'm getting old."

Spike laughed. "Ha...see old man. She realized that I'm better than you."

There was a laugh. "I said she grew tired of ME, my boy. You see, she has met Ettiene and Luc. Luc is quite fond of her. They've been together the past few
nights...she gets home at dawn and then she is mine for a few hours...Luc watches her like a hawk. He told me he loves to touch her...her reactions arouse him.....he
is becoming obsessed..."

"Fuck you Nic. You had better keep that Ken Doll away from my Willow or you'll have to deal with me."

"Your Willow? You should have remembered that before you took MY Dru to your bed. Besides, I thought you'd be happy. Willow is learning to embrace her sexuality.
She is beginning to understand the needs that we vampires all share. Don't worry, by the time we come back she will be properly broken for you." Nic said laughing.

"If you hurt her, I'll kill you." Spike promised.

"Ah, Spike, what is pleasure without a bit of pain? Isn't that what you told me once?"

"I swear Nic, I will stake you myself. I love her."

"Spike, I promise that neither Luc nor I have done anything that she didn't want."

"Fuck that. She doesn't know what she wants. I will not have you use her that way. She is my mate. I am sure you have all ready fucked her, if possible. I don't know
what you said to get her to leave with you....but you'd better treat her nice. Hell, I'll stake Dru first."

Nic laughed. "Makes you crazy doesn't it? Not knowing. You think that she will be loyal and be a good girl....but you fear that she will retaliate against you by fucking
anything that moves. Poor Spikey...all alone and lost in his thoughts....what does Angelus think? No, I'm sure his mind is the same place as yours. Next time, you two
had better consider this before you hurt her: you both belong to her the same as she belongs to you. If you can do it, she can do it. Now, I have a beautiful redhaired
goddess waiting for me to tuck her into bed. I'd better go before she calls Luc."

"You bastard."

"Now Now Spikey...watch the language. Give Dru my love. Tell Angelus I send my regards. We will be home sometime soon, I'm sure. Be safe....."

"OH....and Spike.....sweet dreams."

Nic hung up the phone and sat down smiling to himself.

(I am truly an evil bastard.....serves him right though.....)

Soon, his laughter filled the silence in his room.

* * * * *

"Buffy....I think you might need to stop drinking. That's your fourth, isn't it?" Willow said over the loud music.

"Nah, I'm just a bit buzzed......I'm happy....Let's dance!" Buffy pulled Willow out onto the small dance floor. Willow laughed and joined her friend. Luc followed, keeping
an eye the girls. His gaze watched as the joined the crowd on the floor.

Willow closed her eyes and moved to the music. They were leaving soon. She would have to go back to Sunnydale and try to make some changes. It wouldn't be fun,
but it was necessary. She felt a hand on her stomach. She opened her eyes and saw that Buffy was moving behind her. Since being in New Orleans, they often danced
together or in a group. Neither of them wanted to encourage any of the men here. She closed her eyes again and started to move in rhythm with her friend.

Luc watched the two beautiful girls dance together. There was such trust and friendship between them. He envied them that love. He liked both girls. He was very
attracted to Willow, but she belonged to someone else. He would never poach on another's territory. The slayer puzzled him. She was so vulnerable sometimes, yet at
others completely independent. He had to fight the urge to try to protect her. Willow, he knew, could protect herself. He had seen the fire in her eyes. Buffy may be
the slayer, but she seemed like a lost kitten to him. He smiled as he watched the two girls begin to dance rather erotically. Buffy was running her hands over Willow's
body as the song became faster. Several men on the dance floor had stopped and were watching open mouthed at the women's movements. The girls were lost in
their own thoughts, letting the music lead them.

The song ended, and the two girls went back to Luc.

"I think I should get her home." Willow said. "She needs to sleep. I think she's a bit tipsy."

"I think you're right. Let me help." Luc said, as he swung a laughing Buffy up into his arms. He carried her out of the club and to the car. Willow felt a smile come to her
face. She had noticed the way that Luc had been watching her oblivious friend. It was the same way that Spike and Angel watched her.....

Luc and Willow managed to get Buffy back home. Luc said his goodbyes and promised to call before they both left. Willow tucked Buffy under covers. As she started to
get up, her friend grabbed her arm and pulled her close to her. Her lips found Willow's.

Willow gasped, allowing Buffy's tongue to enter her mouth. After a few seconds, Buffy pulled away and smiled sleepily.

"Love you Wills..." she said before she passed out.

Shaken, Willow walked back to her room.

(She was drunk....she just meant it as a friendly kiss...She's going to be so hung over tomorrow...poor thing. She is going to be going through hell....)

Changing her course, she went to find Nic. She had to talk to the older vampire before they got back to Sunnydale. She had to see if he would agree to her plans.
Smiling, Willow began humming the song that she and Buffy had danced to as she looked for Nic.

* * * * *

"Willow...."

"Yes Buffy?" Willow looked at friend, fighting a smile. (She looks like hell)

"Why did you let me drink so much?" Buffy whined, holding her head in her hands, trying to stop the pounding.

"I tried to stop you....so did Luc."

"Ummm.....did I do anything stupid?"

"What do you mean?" Willow asked, playing innocent.

"I seem to have this memory of kissing...you. Did I kiss you?"

Willow looked into her friend's eyes and said, "Must have been a dream. I won't ask WHY you might have dreamed about kissing me when you could have been
kissing.....say....LUC?"

Buffy felt a blush spread across her face. (Thank God....just another dream)

"Luc is after you, my dear friend. I practically have to step over the puddle of drool each night." Buffy said, rolling her eyes.

"Nyuh-uh. He watches you....just like Spike watches me. I think he's been wanting to "stake" you for the last week. Do you like him?"

"WILLOW! Geez....he's cute....OK. drop "dead" gorgeous, but I've sworn off vamps. Tyler has only been gone less than three months, and you know what I may have
facing me in the future. I do not need a relationship right now."

"I know. I just hate seeing you so stressed. Luc is a sweety. He reminds me of a younger Nic. Besides, he lives in Paris. It would never be more than just this week, so
I guess I should just shut up and worry about my own life. Right?"

Buffy smiled. "Yeah....decide how you are going to get back at Blondie and Deadboy. Luc reminds me of Nic too. He is very sweet...he makes me feel safe. No, I do not
need a one night stand....Do I?"

Willow just smiled. "I think I'm staying tonight. I'm sure you and Luc will have fun without me." Seeing Buffy start to protest, she continued. "I'm not saying that you
should do anything. Don't think about it. Just go with what feels right. A very good friend of mine once told me that..."

Buffy had to smile as she heard her own words spoken back to her. "OK....what feels right. Got it. Are you sure you want to stay in? I mean, we're leaving tomorrow
night."

"Nic and I have some things to discuss. Simone, Ettiene and Karen are coming to visit. I may go out with them, I may not." her voice trailed off...

"Willow?"

"Sorry....I just miss Spike....and Angel. I don't know if I am strong enough to resist them when I get back. I'm worried that I will run right back and start this whole
thing over again. I DO NOT want to be with them if, either I or they, end up leaving in a huff ever month or so. I can't live through an eternity that way. NO. I need to
stop the cycle now."

"You are the strongest person I know. If you want to do it, you will. Trust me."

Willow smiled. "I'm not sure how much I'll want to...that's the problem. OH, that must be Luc....have fun and be safe."

Buffy smiled and went out to join the handsome vampire. Looking into his blue eyes, she felt a shiver of anticipation shoot through her. (Do what feels right....oh
my.....well, you only live once Buffy. Maybe you should enjoy tonight....)

* * * * *

"We should be there this evening. Can you please have everyone meet at your place around midnight. Oz, Xander, Cordelia...Spike, Angel and Dru. Yes, I'm hoping that
he won't kill me if I have witnesses. No, it is nothing bad. Just some changes. I just don't want to have to tell everyone separately. Buffy is fine. Yeah, she went out
last night with one of Nic's children, Luc. He is a very good guy, for a vampire. He takes care of her. No, she hasn't made it back yet....Giles, don't worry. Buffy would
not do anything stupid. Besides, it is her life. If she want to give in and have a little vacation fling, that is her decision." Willow looked up as her door opened and Buffy
entered, a dreamy expression on her face. Willow smiled. "Sorry, Giles, but Nic just popped in. He needs me to take the luggage down. I'll see you soon. Be safe."

"Well, Missy....where have you been all night and day?"

"Oh Willow...it was great. I don't know how to explain it. Last night, we went for a walk and spent the whole night talking. He actually listened to what I was saying.
We ended up back at his hotel. Umm...we didn't have sex or anything last night. I slept in his arms. He never tried anything. I can't tell you what it was like to wake up
in his arms. It made me miss Tyler so much."

"Oh Buffy....are you ok?"

"Yes...we spent the morning watching television and talking more. We made love."

Willow looked at her friend, waiting for her to continue.

"It was.....sensational. He is leaving for Paris tonight. I feel bad that he won't be here, but I am so glad that I took the chance. I have some wonderful memories. Does
that seem stupid?"

"No. You got caught in the moment. I am happy that he made you happy. When Spike and I first got together, it was that way for us. I loved waking up beside him.
We would spend hours just talking. After Angel, it stopped. I love Angel to death, but he just made things fall apart. We have not been able to recapture those first
moments. Too much has happened. I mean, he lied to me about shagging Angel and I left, then Tyler died, then he was vampnapped by that weird little man, then it
was them and Dru and I left, again. I don't want to go through this again. It hurts so much. I know he is hurting. You should hear what Nic has been telling him!"

"I can imagine. Poor Spike! Nic is quite a character. Willow, just remember, whatever you decide, decide for yourself. You need to make sure you can be happy. I don't
want to see you unhappy again. It hurts me to see you suffer. Promise me that you won't let them force you into something until you are ready."

"I promise. Thank you for always being there. I don't know what I would have done this time if it hadn't been for you and Nic."

"Well, after getting over my selfishness and jealousy, I've been there. Don't forget that awful first month!" Buffy said, smiling.

"Don't remind me. I thought you would hate me forever."

"I could never hate you." Buffy said seriously. "You're my best friend. I don't think I could have made it this long without you."

"Enough! Let's get packed. Nic said the plane is ready to leave at dusk. We still have to get you packed. Will Luc be at the airport?"

"No. We all ready said our goodbyes. He said that he will call you before we leave. Oh God....I just slept with another vampire!"

"Yeah.....guess Spike was right. He told me that once you went vamp, you never went back."

"That sounds like something he'd say!" Buffy said, groaning.

The girls laughed and started packing. There was time for seriousness later. Tonight, they'd be back in Sunnydale. Willow would have to face the two she left behind
and Buffy would have to face an undetermined future. At least they had their friendship.
 

~Part: 28~ Shared Futures

As the walked into the room, voices erupted.

"Where the hell have you been?"

"Get your bloody hands off her you bastard."

"Hey Buffy...how's your dad?"

"Great outfit."

"Father....have you been naughty with Red?"

A loud whistle sounded. Startled, everyone looked at Willow.

"PLEASE! Geez, we just got off a plane. There was a damn delay. It is great to be home. I am only saying this once, so listen up. I DID NOT sleep with Nic. He never
even tried. Buffy went with us. We have been in New Orleans. Spike, Angel--I've had time to think this over. I can forgive what you did, but I will never forget it. I can
not be with you right now."

"You, the slayer and Nic all went off together? Why the bloody hell did he say he was fucking you if he wasn't?"

"What do you mean you can't be around us right now?" Angel asked quietly.

"Nic never said he was fucking me. Your perverted little betraying mind jumped to its own conclusions. I love you both. I would never be able to just go out and fuck
someone. Too bad you both don't have that problem." She turned to Angel. "I will not be moving back in with you. I can't right now. I need some time to figure out
what I'm going to do with my life."

"You're not coming home?" Spike repeated softly. She almost relented when she saw the hurt and pain in his eyes. They would have to talk privately.

Taking a deep breath, she continued.

"No, I won't. It just hurts too much right now. Anyway, Nic and I have discussed the future. Giles, he has agreed to move to Sunnydale and take over as master. Two
of his children, Ettiene and Simone, will be here within the week. He will make Sunnydale like his clan in Paris. No rash of deaths....he and his family will assist when we
have demons etc. He is planning on getting assistance from Spike and Angel also. With all of them, Sunnydale might just get to be a safer place."

Dru hugged Nic. "We get to stay?"

"Yes princess. Does that make you happy?"

"Yes....I like these people. Willow, do you hate me?"

"No Drusilla. I know how hard it is to resist Spike and Angel. I would have done the same as you. I hope we can become friends."

Dru smiled. "That would be nice."

"If I may, where do you plan to be Willow?" Cordelia asked.

"I'm moving in with Nic and Dru."

"Over my dead body, you are. I understand that you don't want to be around us right now, but I won't have you around that bastard."

"It isn't your choice. Buffy and I both will be moving in with them."

Dru looked at Nic. "The slayer? I don't think I like that...."

"Shhh...just listen baby." Nic said, kissing her quickly.

"Willow....why would Nic agree to move here? And why would we want him to become master? I am getting quite confused."

Willow looked at them. They all seem rather puzzled. She answered Giles' question.

"We need help. If there is no master, vampires will continue to become a bigger problem. With Nic, we can rest assured that things will be smooth. He won't let them
kill anyone. If they try, he will kill them."

"It sounds to me like Buffy won't have too much to do." Cordelia pointed out.

"Exactly!" Willow said, smiling.

More puzzled looks. "I just don't understand this, Willow. Buffy, what are your thoughts?" Giles addressed his slayer, who had remained quiet throughout the discussion.
 

Buffy looked at them, and tried to smile. "I'm sorry. I know it is a bit weird, but it was the only thing we could think of. Willow and Nic spent hours trying to think of
every angle...every outcome. This is the best decision. I think it will all work out fine. I could use the rest."

"What are you both not telling us?" Angel spoke up curiously.

Buffy looked at Willow. Her friend smiled, and took her hand, giving it a squeeze. Taking a deep breath, Buffy looked at the others.

"I'm pregnant."

Chaos. That is the only way to describe Giles' small apartment after Buffy's statement. Everyone had an opinion. Dru looked at the slayer and felt pity. She didn't like
having any sort of feelings for that nasty slayer, but she couldn't help it. The poor thing must be miserable. She was going to have a baby alone. She needed help. Dru
slowly made her way to the blonde girl. Buffy regarded her warily.

Dru reached out and placed her palm over Buffy's flat stomach. "Baby...." she whispered. "It's a girl. Oh...I love babies. They are so pink and cuddly...." She put an arm
around a surprised slayer's shoulders. "Let's go. You need to rest. We don't need you to tire yourself out. Father, do we have a new house?"

Nic smiled. He knew Dru would be able to forget her and Buffy's differences if she really wanted to. "Yes, baby. I had an agent purchase one yesterday after Willow
and I finalized the plans."

"Good. Come on slayer. We'll put you to bed." Dru smiled at Willow and guided Buffy out of the room. Silence followed their escape.

Willow was relieved that Buffy was on her way home. She had so much to worry about as it was, she didn't need anything else. She turned to the others.

"You should all be ashamed of yourselves. We have this planned out. Buffy feels bad enough without you all being negative. It is pretty sad that Drusilla.....DRUSILLA is
being more mature and considerate than you are. Spike, Angel....take me to the house. We need to talk and I need to get some stuff. Nic, I'll be home soon." She
kissed his cheek as she walked out.

Spike and Angel got up, shooting deadly glares at Nic. Nic just smiled.

"I'd best be going. Dru has no idea where the new house is. She and Buffy are probably wandering around in the dark. Be safe."

Giles, Oz, Xander, and Cordelia looked at each other, not really sure what to say.

"Well, at least they're making cuter maternity clothes now."

**********

"Don't touch me."

"Red....why are you doing this?"

Willow looked at Spike as she continued packing up a suitcase.

"If I don't, it will happen again."

"Pet, I can promise you that I will not be with Dru ever again. Neither will Angel. We have been miserable the last week."

Willow sat down and looked at them both. They did look terrible. Spike's eyes held no humor, just sadness. And....oh my, Angel was wearing mismatched socks.

(Oh Goddess....they are miserable...maybe....No Willow. Be strong.)

"I love you both, so much. That's why I have to leave. No, just listen. I've thought about this for a week. I understand the vampire nature a bit better than I did. I
know you both got caught up in memories. As I said, I can forgive you that. But I can not forget how you deliberately used Drusilla to make me hurt.

Spike, things between us all have been like something out of a daytime soap opera lately. I miss waking up in your arms. I miss our late morning chats about past,
future and life. I miss the humor that used to play such a large part of our lives.

Angel, I miss the intensity that you used to watch me with. I miss the trips to the museum...the movies..how you both used to look at me like I was special.

I don't feel special anymore. I know that you both love me, but I just don't feel it right now. I'm sorry. I know that if I come back now, we will all fall into the rut that
we were in the last few months. I can not live through all that drama anymore. I want things to become happy, fun, and comfortable again. I know we can all get
there. We just need time. I want you both to think about this. You know that I'm right.

Spike, you need accept that I am not going to run off and sleep with anyone. Hell, you and Angel wear me out. Why would I ever look at another when I have both of
you?

Also, Buffy is my best friend. I love her. She needs me now more than she ever has before and I will be there for her. If you can accept this, I can't be with you.
Please don't call me or come by until you both are positive that it is what you want and that you can accept the way things are going to be. I can't stand hurting like
this again. I love you both."

She kissed them both on the cheek, fighting the desire to collapse on the bed in tears and let them soothe away her pain.

"Willow....."

"Yes?"

"I love you. I ...."

"Shhh....Spike. Give it some time. You aren't ready yet. I'll call you later in the week to check on things. Try not to kill each other. Be safe." She turned and left the
room before they could see the tears on her face.

"Well, peaches, it looks like its just you and me." Spike said in a defeated tone.

"Blondie....we'll get her back. Just give her some time. If that doesn't work, we can always torture her until she says yes."

Spike smiled for the first time in a week. "Yeah....we can always fall back on that. It usually works. She usually screams yes by the end...." his voice trailed off as he
became lost in his memories.

Angel looked at his childe. "As I said, give it some time. She still loves us, she just doesn't want to live with us right now. Women are weird that way. You'd think after
a couple hundred years, I could figure one out by now. But noooo...as soon as I think I have, they change their minds."

Spike started to laugh. He knew that pretty soon things would be back to normal. After all, Willow was home. She still loved them. He might have to do some begging,
but he didn't mind. He just wanted his Red back in his life.

"So....Peaches, what do you think about this Buffy business? I'm all ready imagining that bimbo's brat running around trying to stake my ankles. Maybe it will take after
its father. We can only hope." He mock shivered as Angel laughed.

**********

Willow stopped and smiled as she looked into the bedroom. Buffy was seated in a chair beside the bed. Drusilla was kneeling on the bed behind her, brushing her hair.
She had now seen everything.

(These are the two enemies that were at each other's throats two weeks ago? Only on the hellmouth.....)

"Hey there." she said softly.

The two women looked at her, both smiling.

"How did it go?" Buffy asked.

"It went....I don't know. I guess I'm stronger than I thought. All I wanted to do was jump them and let them soothe away the pain. Sorry....I don't mean that. I just..I
don't know anymore...."

Buffy and Dru looked at each other and then at their friend.

"Spike and Daddy were very naughty for hurting you. Don't cry. Come over here and let me brush away the pain."

"Yes, Willow. Let her. It actually works. Its some kind of spell or something. It made me feel much better."

"OK." Willow went over and took Buffy's seat. "I told them not to call me until they were ready for a commitment. Oh Goddess.....that feels great Dru....Spike looked so
sad....I feel so guilty. I know I shouldn't. I mean, I'm not that one that was fucking Dru, no offense. I really miss them...."

"None taken sweet Willow....."

"Well, I'm proud of you. You not only didn't go back, but you told off the gang according to Nic. I would have loved to see that. Do you think I'm making the right
decision, Wills?"

"Yes. You are doing what makes you happy. Besides, Tyler was great. Hopefully, the baby will take after him instead of his mother. OW! That hurt."

All three women looked at each other and started to giggle.

Nic looked into the room and smiled. His princess seemed to have forgotten that one of these girls was the slayer. Poor Buffy and Willow. They deserved such
happiness. They were unlike any mortal he had ever known. He was very lucky to have met them both. He knew that Spike and Angel would be back. They weren't
stupid enough to let Willow get away. That would make Willow very happy. Looking at Buffy, a thoughtful look crossed his face. He may be old, but he wasn't blind. He
started to laugh. He knew exactly what would make the slayer smile. Whistling a tune, he headed to his new study. He had to make an emergency call to Paris.
 

~Part: 29~ Wooing Willow

Do you think this will work, Peaches?"

"Of course. I wouldn't try it if I didn't have complete faith. Besides, Nic is helping us."

"Bloody bastard. If it hadn't been for his help Willow would never have gone to New Orleans. She would be in our bed right this minute. Damn bloke is too helpful."

"Stop your grumbling. It's been two days. She won't accept our calls....she avoids us at night....we need an inside man. Nic is that insider."

"Yeah.....yeah.....Whatever. As long as it get her back in our lives, I'm hip with that."

Angel looked at his childe and started to laugh. "Xander much?"

"Cordelia much?" Spike returned, smiling.

The two teens had taken it upon themselves to help Spike and Angel get Willow back. They felt guilty for their reactions to Buffy's news, and were trying to make it up
to Willow. Yesterday evening they had arrived. Xander had become Spike's shadow; Cordy---Angel's.

"Hell, we have to get her back or I may just kill the moron. If I have to hear one more time his ideas on pleasing her, I can't be held responsible for what I may do."

"YOU? I have that damn ex-cheerleader criticizing my entire wardrobe. Yesterday, she forced me to go....shopping." He said the last word in disgust. "I have great
taste. Willow likes my leather...."

Spike rolled his eyes. "Yeah, right. Well, tonight I'm stuck with that bimbo. She'd better not be thinking about taking me shopping! I'll rip her damn throat out."

"Spike...you have terrible clothes. Let her take you shopping. I'll tell her to watch her mouth....but please, let her pick out some new clothes. Something that isn't red
or black?"

Spike looked at his sire. "Are you insulting my taste, mate?"

"Yep."

"You'll have to pay for that Angelus." he threatened.

"Promises...promises." Angel muttered as the doorbell rang.

Spike winked at him as he went to let in the bimbo and the moron.

* * * * *

"No...not that....ugh, awful. Ohh....I like this. The blue matches your eyes....OH GOD! I don't think so....NO BLACK! Geeshh, what is it with you guys and black? I
mean, I understand the whole 'I am evil.....see me kill' thing, but can't you be evil in happy colors?

OH YES...this is perfect. She'll love it.....Take Angel....he's a hottie, but all that black. Puh-leez...he needs some nice blues....greens....a splash of red....he looks
scrumptious in purple, which is difficult, I'm telling you. Not many men can pull off purple.

And you? Total hottie. Great ass. Do you show it? Noooo, you wear that damn trenchcoat all the time and cover up the view. No, not those. Geeshhh....hasn't two
hundred years of undeath taught you anything? You do not mix stripes and solids. On you, we need solids vibrants colors. Darks... blues, greens, maroon...

Willow told me that was what your bedroom was decorated in. Why can't you dump the black and red and get some color in your color in your unlife? No, not khaki.
Too preppy....I like Angel's leather---he looks delish. Don't tell him I approve though. He thinks he looks too fat.

What-ever. Here, try this on too.....Willow won't know who you are if she gets you out of that black. Well, actually, seeing as she has probably licked every part of
your body, she would recognize you in nothing. I meant, if she sees you in these colors.

What? Spiiiike...quit looking at me like that. What are you doing? No...stay back. I'm helping you....you look yummy. She'll tear it off in seconds....promise. Don't hurt
me....Good vampire....yes, you look great. I told you. Those blue jeans mold that scrumptious ass of yours. No long coat! I refuse to see my work destroyed. Save it
for a cold night. See, positively breath taking.

Spike, let go of my neck. I didn't mean that literally! God, how can Willow put up with you? Just go pay for all this. Oh, and YOU'RE WELCOME! God, I spend hours here
and you can't even say thank you...it was a joke. I know you appreciate it...HELP!.....Ha..ha...very funny.

I'm leaving. I'll meet you at the car. I saw this great little dress upstairs...."

* * * * *

"What is it?" Buffy asked eagerly.

Willow showed her friend.

"What? I don't get it."

"It's a copy of Young Guns...the first dream. Goddess, I can't believe he remembered."

Willow put the movie on her desk. Beside it, there was a bouquet of a dozen roses (white---her favorite), a sketch that Angel had drawn of her and Spike, a copy of
Love Poems of the Ages (with passages underlined), a beautiful silk scarf (she had to blush looking at it), a tin of strawberries, and a dream dictionary. Gifts had been
arriving every hour since 9am.

"This is so romantic. They really are trying to get you back." Buffy said, smiling.

"Yeah...they are. I must say I'm a bit surprised. I can't believe they are going to this much trouble. I wonder what will be next."

"Maybe them with a big red bow?"

Willow felt a blush. "No....not yet. I need to make them realize that I am not a possession. They don't own me. I allow them to use me, but I am my own person....that
doesn't sound right...gifts are nice, but it's not going to be that easy."

"I know what you mean. Spike seems to be rather controlling. It does look like he's loosening up though. Giles told me that Cordelia took him shopping!"

"You're kidding? And she's still alive?"

"Yep....I was rather surprised. It seems that she convinced him a new wardrobe would help him get you back."

"Cordelia's good....She just likes to spend other people's money. His clothes weren't bad to begin with. Now, if she could buy him a dose of trust and faith, I'd be all for
it."

Buffy started to laugh. "Nah...he needs to earn those. No fair cheating."

"You're right. I wonder what will be next..."

"Gosh, this is exciting. I bet it was Nic's idea."

"Ya think?"

"Yeah....it's old fashioned. Wooing Willow...how sweet. Is it working?"

Willow glanced at her desk, then looked at her friend. She just smiled. "Maybe...."

* * * * *

"Is it working?"

"Shhh...I can't hear him when you're talking in my ear. What was that Nic? Uh huh...really? Wow...ok...you think so? ....yeah....a few more....ok. talk to you later."

"Well???"

"It's working."

"I can't believe the moron was right!"

"Me either. Nic says that she has begun looking at the door every hour on the hour. She is smiling."

"We made her smile?" Spike asked, feeling proud.

"Yeah..." Angel said.

"The moron said that we need to take it slow. Make her realize that it is her we want and not just another bedmate."

"He also said that she hates to be treated like property....we made her feel like that. God, it's going to take forever for us to fix this mess...."

"Well, we have forever, but I don't intend on spending it trying to get her back. I plan on spending it with her. Besides, the gifts are going to get a bit more ....
memorable." he said, smiling.

Angel grinned. "Yeah...wish I was there to see her face when she gets the gloves...I wonder how she's going to explain that one to Buffy."

"She'll probably blush and babble a bit...the slayer will decide that she doesn't want to know after all....I miss her babbling..."

"Me too.....not much longer though."

"Do you think she'll agree to go out with us?"

"Maybe....if we assure her that it will be in public."

"Bloody hell....like we'd take advantage of her or something...."

Angel smiled wickedly, "By the time we're through wooing her, she might take advantage of us."

Spike had to laugh. "Yeah...the moron actually had a good idea. Don't tell him though. We'd never hear the end of it..."

* * * * *

"Buffy...would you get the door?" Nic asked.

"Sure." Buffy got up and opened the front door. Her mouth dropped.

"LUC??? Oh my God..." she hugged him tightly, then pulled away as she realized what she had done. She felt the blush come. "What are you doing here?"

"I heard you needed me, so ....." He smiled.

"Uh....ok. Umm...Luc....about that night..."

"It's ok. I know you didn't intend for it to go as far as it did. It happened. I'm not here for that. I'm here for my new friend and, besides, Nic needs me to help him out.
I think we need to get to know each other better.....I want to know you...but for now, friends."

Buffy smiled. "Thank you...I could use a friend right now."

She took into the living room where Nic and Dru were sitting. They sat down, and Nic filled Luc in on Sunnydale and what was happening.

* * * * *

Willow came downstairs, a scowl on her pretty face. "Nothing.....It's twenty past 7 and NOTHING!"

The people in the room looked at each, fighting a smile.

"What is it Willow?" Buffy asked.

"Those damn.....VAMPIRES! I can't believe them....all day they've been pestering me....sending me things. Now, they just ....stop. UGH!"

"I thought you wanted them to leave you alone for a bit?" Nic asked.

Willow looked at him, her eyes blazing. "Shut up. It was probably all your idea anyway. God damn undependable, blood sucking creatures of the night." The doorbell
rang and she paused in her tirade. "The delivery must have been running late!" She ran to the door, smiling.

Spike and Angel were standing there.

" ' ello Pet." Spike said, smiling.

(Oh Goddess....)

"Hi."

"We were wondering if you'd like to get a cup of coffee.....we need to talk." Angel said, his brown eyes pleading.

"OK...."

Willow saw their smiles and felt her heart pounding. They turned to leave, and her breath caught. (Thank you Cordy....) Spike was wearing a pair of faded blue jeans,
tight faded blue jeans....a blue shirt that matched his eyes when he was about to....(No Willow....coffee....that's it. He thinks he owns you...Bad Willow)

She turned to tell the others, when she saw Buffy watching with a smile on her face. "I won't wait up Wills...."

Willow rolled her eyes and went out to meet her lovers.

* * * * *

"They are driving me insane. If I have to go through much more of this, I know I'm going to end up in a straitjacket." Willow whined.

Buffy looked at Dru. They both shook their heads slowly. Buffy was still amazed at her friendship with the vampiress. Dru still had her crazy moments, but she seemed
to really be concerned about the baby. They both were listening to their friend talk about her meetings with Spike and Angel.

"Willow....make up your damn mind. First, they use you for sex so you say no sex....now, they don't touch you and you're bitching about that...."

"I never said no sex! I just said that they only wanted me for that. I guess I was wrong." she mumbled.

Dru smiled. "They want you. They just don't know if you want them. Miss Edith says that you will be back with them soon. Cheer up."

"Cheer up? Last night, we went to the movies. I sat in between them in the dark. I could smell them.....I could feel them beside me....Angel's leg rubbing against
mine...Spike always seemed to reach for the popcorn the same time that I did....I felt his hand....I wanted to toss the popcorn and take him right there on the sticky
floor! I've been with them every night this week, and not once have they attempted to have sex with me. NOT ONCE! I mean, Spike even kisses me on the
forehead.....like I'm his kid sister or something. Maybe I'm the one using them for sex.....oh Goddess, I wonder if I'm a nympho or something...."

"WILLOW! God....they are wooing you. They both want you. I've seen the desire in their eyes when they pick you up every night. They are waiting until you're
ready....I actually think it's rather sweet..."

"You would."

"What's that supposed to mean?'

"Girls....stop. Willow, are you ready to take them back? Despite the fact that they will be possessive and stubborn and temperamental?"

"Yes..." Willow whispered. "I miss them so much...."

"Well, there you have it." Dru smiled and went back to her book.

"There I have what? They don't want me. They've made that clear. I've been slotted into that "friend" mold now. I lost my chance. It is too late...."

"Been watching the Young and the Restless again Wills?"

"OH...just be quiet!" Willow left the room and slammed the door.

Buffy and Dru looked at each other and then started laughing.

"I'll have Nic tell them that it is time."

"I still can't believe they have been so good about this. From Spike's eyes, he is fighting the urge to take her anywhere and everywhere."

"Well, he will have his chance now. Willow is ready to accept them both now...faults and all."

"Yeah.....what's their plan?"

Dru smiled wickedly and told the slayer the last act of Operation: Wooing Willow, as they had begun to call it privately. Buffy's laughter could be heard from down the
hall. Willow glared at the door and threw her pillow at it.

"Damn vampires....."

* * * * *

Willow looked at the packages spread over her bed. They were brightly wrapped and numbered. A delivery driver had dropped them off with a note. She re-read the
note again.

Dinner.....tonight....
Love S & A

She felt anticipation and nervousness fill her. She reached for the box labelled with a 1. She opened it and found one of the most beautiful dresses she'd seen. It was
dark green, with a slit up the side. The material was velvet. She held it up in front of her at the mirror. It fell just below her knees. Sighing, she opened number 2. She
found shoes that matched...strappy heels...she found herself beginning to smile. Number 3 brought her two beautiful pins for her hair...number 4 was a necklace,
emeralds and diamonds with matching earrings....number 5 was a bra and panty set ....she smiled when she saw a note tucked inside in Spike's handwriting. It said
Optional.....number 6 was a garter belt.....number 7 was a pair of silk stockings...and finally, number 8 was a silk scarf....Angel's handwriting this time....Bring
this.....she felt a rush of desire shoot through her.....

Willow looked at everything and then at the clock. She knew that it was finally D Day. Could she go home? Would the same things continue to happen? She finally
decided that she didn't care. She loved them both and missed them terribly. The last two weeks had been longer than when Spike had been kidnapped. She was going
to be miserable without them. There really was no choice. As she had told Luc, she belongs to them, and they to her. She got up and began to dress, leaving the bra
and panty set in the box...

(Wouldn't want them to have to wait for you....I wonder where we are eating....Oohh...I wonder if Cordelia made Spike buy some nice, tight slacks....)

* * * * *

"You're here." Spike said, smiling.

Willow nodded. "Yes....it's time. Just know that if you start to act like you own me again, either of you, I'll stake you myself."

"We'll remember that." Angel said, moving forward. He took the scarf from her and used it as a blindfold. She opened her mouth to protest, only to find Spike's mouth
joining hers. When he pulled away, she could no longer remember what she had planned to say.

Spike leaned over and pulled the pins from her hair. "I like it better down...reminds me of you, wild and untamed..." he whispered in her ear.

She felt herself being led forward. Angel's voice in her ear telling her when to step and when to sit. After a short car ride, she was being led again.

"We love you pet. Promise you'll never leave us again."

"I promise." The blindfold was removed and she gasped. They were in a clearing of the park. A blanket lay on the ground, candles were set up around it. There was a
basket in the middle that she was sure contained some of her favorite foods. She was pleasantly surprised. She smiled. "A picnic? I love it...I feel a bit overdressed
though."

She felt Angel's mouth on her neck. Her breath caught. Spike's blue eyes looked into hers. "We can solve that problem, luv." He reached forward and started to pull the
zipper of her dress down, his mouth meeting hers. She whimpered when she felt his and Angel's hands on her bare skin. The dress pooled at her feet. Spike chuckled,
"See you took my advice luv....no knickers."

"We can't do this here....it's a public park." Willow suddenly said.

"Shh.....we've missed you. Just let us do this." Angel said, his mouth replacing Spike's. Spike trailed his mouth down her body, licking, sucking and nipping. She felt her
knees turning to jelly. She was glad that Angel was holding her up or else she would have slid to the ground. She moaned as Spike's talented tongue went to work.
Angel's hands kneaded her breasts, as his tongue began to ravish her mouth. It had been so long with out them...too long. Her hand found its way to Spike's head.
She grabbed his hair and forced him closer into her. His hands reached up and cupped her ass. He had missed his goddess...her taste was driving him crazy. He wanted
to sink into her and never leave. Soon, she spasmed around his tongue, screaming his name. He got off his knees and claimed her mouth. Her tongue tasting herself on
him.

"Mine" he whispered into her mouth. She nodded, knowing that it was true. She was theirs.

Gently, Angel led her to the blanket.

"Time to eat." he said as he sat down pulling her with him. She opened her mouth to ask if they didn't need release, and found his finger covering it. "We have eternity
Willow. Right now, this is for you." Angel always seemed to know what she planned to say.

She felt Spike's coat go around her shoulders. Spike joined them on the blanket. His hand began to draw lazy circles on her leg as Angel proceeded to feed her.
 

~Part: 30~ Home Again

Willow lay on the bed watching Spike and Angel sleep. After their picnic, they had gone to Nic's and packed up all of her stuff. She was now officially home. It felt
right. She leaned over and ran her finger across Spike's cheek. She had missed them....missed waking up beside them. She knew that they felt the same. She only
hoped that they would be better about the possessiveness. She knew that it would exist to a degree, but they pushed the envelope on tolerance. She noticed
movement, and looked in Spike's eyes. He was watching her with a steady gaze and a lazy smile. He captured her hand, bringing it to his mouth. She felt the desire
spread through her. Never taking his gaze from hers, he slowly began to lick her fingers....nipping at them. She didn't know why she reacted so wantonly to him. Just a
look, and she would feel herself growing moist. When he touched her, it was as though her body were on fire and his touch the only thing that would ease the pain.
When he was in her, deep as possible, it was as though she were complete. She had similar reactions to Angel, but not as soul-stirring as her reactions to Spike. She
wondered if Angel had been her first, if she would be as excited by him or if it was purely a Spike reaction.

His lips moved to hers with urgency. He had missed her more than he thought possible. When he thought she might not come back, it was as though he lost a part of
himself. He had never felt like this, even when he was alive. To think that this girl, this human, stirred something inside of him was remarkable. He knew he didn't
deserve her. He was soulless bastard. If he loved her, he would have walked away...left her in peace. He didn't just love her....he adored her, worshipped her, needed
her. His ran his lips along her perfect face, tasting her...He felt Angel's hand on his cock....rubbing him. He was a very lucky bastard.

Willow saw that Angel had woken up. Her hand joined his on Spike...their eyes meeting. She smiled when he winked at her. It was good to be home......

* * * * *

"So, Luv, how is the slayer? Still knocked up?"

Willow threw a pillow at him. "Spike! Behave. Yes, Buffy is still pregnant. She's been to the doctor and they confirmed. She thinks that she will be due sometime around
Christmas."

"That sucks." Angel said.

"What?" Willow asked.

"Think about it. The poor brat is going to be born right around a major holiday. Perfect excuse for everyone to just give her one gift. For a kid, that sucks."

"Oh...I hadn't thought of it like that. Oh, and don't call her a brat. Maybe Buffy will be late. January wouldn't be a bad month to born."

"Hell, who cares? The kid is all ready going to be screwed anyway. I mean, her mother is going to be that bimbo. Only thing worse I could think of would be the
cheerleader. Now that would be a nightmare."

Willow glared at him before smiling. "Ok. I know you hate Buffy. It is the whole vampire-slayer thing..."

"Nope...it's that whole brainless "look at me...look at me" bimbo thing, pet. I've met some slayers that weren't that bad. I killed them but they were all right." He smiled
as Willow tried to control her anger. He loved to play with his kitten. She was striking when she was angry.

"Spike's right. He did like those girls. Even kept one of them around for awhile. Tortured her before he killed her."

"OH....you..you....VAMPIRES!" Willow stormed out and slammed the door. Spike and Angel started laughing.

"Should we go get her?"

"Nah, Peaches. She won't get very far."

"Yeah...she seems to have forgotten her clothes."

The door opened and Willow came back in, blushing. "I'm naked." she said softly.

Angel got off the bed and started walking towards her. Spike admired the muscles in his legs...his grace as he walked.

He stalked Willow, his eyes caressing her body. She felt stupid. She couldn't believe she had let them irritate her all ready. She hadn't even been back a day. She
needed to lighten up.

(Oh Goddess.....he looks like a panther stalking his prey...and I'm his prey...)

She moved backwards until she felt the door behind her. She had a flash of deja vu, then all thought left her mind as his lips claimed hers. In one motion, he had lifted
her and thrust into her. She wrapped her legs around his waist and arched to meet him. One of his hands went to her ass as he kept her in place. The other went to
her hair and roughly pulled, exposing her neck to his demanding mouth. HIs hand was kneading her ass....she felt his teeth on her neck....on her collarbone...on her
breast...her hands hung on to his shoulders...her fingernails digging into his flesh.....he started to push into her faster....deeper....she could feel the orgasm
building...Angel had never been this way with her....he had usually treated her as though she were a fragile piece of china....she liked him like this...the look in his
eyes....the desire and the power...she could see Angelus....she screamed as he bit into her nipple with his fangs...she came hitting her head on the door as she pulled
back....he kept on thrusting....she could vaguely see Spike on the bed watching.....his hand on his cock as he watched his sire fuck his wife...she felt Angel's finger
rubbing against her anus....her eyes widened as he penetrated her there for the first time...oh Goddess....she felt herself orgasm again....her mouth went to his
neck....she licked at him, tasting him...she could feel the door behind her....she wondered how it could stay without breaking under the force of his thrusts....his free
hand went between their bodies....she felt his finger on her clit...it was too much....she came for a third time biting into his shoulder hard...he hoarsely screamed her
name and flooded her with his release....Willow struggled to catch her breath....his mouth claimed hers...he then looked at her, his eyes becoming gentle.

"Mine" he whispered before releasing her.

She felt him carry her to the bed. She could all ready feel the ache in her body where he had been so rough. She closed her eyes and drifted off to sleep exhausted.
Spike brought Angel to him, giving him a rough kiss. He then laid down beside his Willow and took the sleeping girl into his arms. He felt Angel's mouth on his cock,
sucking, licking, demanding his release.....with a whimper, he came. Angel looked at him and smiled before moving to Willow's other side. He laid his dark head on her
breast, one arm encircling her, before closing his eyes. Soon, the room was quiet except for the soft sounds of Willow's breathing.

* * * * *

Willow snuggled deeper under the warm covers, revelling in the heat. Suddenly, her eyes flew open.

(HEAT...AND I have a cover....Where the hell are they???)

She looked around at the empty room. Trying to hide her disappointment at waking up alone, she grabbed the blanket and wrapped it around her. She went downstairs.
She heard loud cursing coming from the kitchen. Startled, she ran to investigate. What she saw made her stop and hide her laugh. Angel and Spike were covered in
what appeared to be flour. Pots and pans were piled up around the kitchen.

"Bloody hell...it says a cup. This is a damn cup."

"Not that kind of cup. I think there should be this measuring cup we should use. I don't think it meant that much...."

"Well, the damn thing should be more specific." Spike looked up and saw Willow. He grinned sheepishly. "Hello luv."

Angel turned around. His expression reminded Willow of the time Xander had been caught in her mother's flowerbed. "Hey Willow..."

"Boys....what may I ask are you doing? And why do I smell smoke?"

"Oh fuck...the bacon. You wanker. It's burning..."

Angel turned and grabbed the pan from the stove. He threw it in the sink.

"Great....now we lost that too."

"Pet....we were going to surprise you. Breakfast in bed. See, we made eggs, bacon, and we're attempting pancakes. These damn recipes aren't in english though."

Willow gave in and laughed until tears were falling down her face. "You two..tried to cook? Oh Goddess....I wish Buffy and Dru were here....They'd love this..."

Seeing the looks in their eyes, she felt the laughter leave her. "Guys...I was joking. It is very sweet....the eggs look......runny. I mean, they look yummy...."

The men looked at each other and then at Willow. They started heading towards her.

"Luv....we decided to skip straight to dessert..." Spike lunged for her, catching her in his arms. He kissed her and eased her towards the dining room table. Angel joined
them as they proceeded to enjoy their dessert.

* * * * *

"Breakfast at Tiffany's. Xander?"

"Hmm....Princess Bride. Definitely. Cordy?"

"Pretty Woman. What? Did you see all those clothes? He gave her cash. CASH! That had to be the most romantic movie I've ever seen. Willow?"

"Casablanca. I still get teary eyed. Angel?"

"I don't like movies. Fine....Uh....damn, I don't know. Skip me....Spike?"

"Easy Peaches. Young Guns."

"What? That's not a romantic movie." Angel responded.

"If it hadn't been for that movie, I might not have Willow. So, for me, it is. Next question: Funniest movie: Slayer?"

"Spaceballs. I crack up everytime. Xan?"

"Airplane. I love the singing...Cor?"

"Umm.....geesh....that one where the woman is kidnapped by Donald Duck....you know, with that singer...."

"Ruthless People?"

"Yeah, that one. Willow?"

"Sixteen Candles. It cracks me up every time." Willow smiled at Spike. "Since Angel doesn't like movies, its your turn."

"This is too easy.....Interview with a Vampire. That has to be the funniest thing I've ever sat through."

"HEY! It isn't funny. It was a dramatic movie." Buffy insisted.

"Luv, to me, that movie was a riot. Complete fantasy."

"He's right. It is rather funny knowing what we know about vampires." Willow defended her man.

"What-ever. Fine. I'll let is slide this time. OH God....I'm late. Luc is meeting me for patrol like fifteen minutes ago. See you tomorrow." Buffy ran out the door.

Xander and Cordelia got up to follow.

"Glad your back here, Wills. No one else has a big enough house for us." Xander told his friend.

"See, always using me for something Harris. I'll call you tomorrow Cor."

The teens left.

"So, the slayer is interested in Luc huh?" Spike asked, spitting out the name.

"What's wrong with Luc?" Willow asked, as she began to straighten up the room. She stopped when she saw Angel and Spike look at each other. "What?"

"Spike? Angel? Talk to me here. What's wrong with Luc?"

"Nothing is wrong with him. He's a good guy." Angel said.

"Spike?"

"He's a good guy...Damn, he's not normal, Red."

"What are you talking about?"

"Willow, Luc is Nic's childe. Nic is very very old. You might consider him ancient. He doesn't embrace often. When he does, he knows this spell, for want of a better
word. See, Luca was dieing. His wife and family had been tortured and she was raped. They were killed in front of him, before the soldiers mortally wounded him. Nic
embraced him because Luc was a good guy. Luca had saved him once. When Nic shares his blood, he says this chant. So, Luc is a vampire, but he doesn't have to
have blood to survive."

"He also can go out into the sun. Damn wanker. He's not normal pet. Most of us envy Nic's direct children, because they keep elements of their mortal life in them. It's
nothing against Luc direct. There has always just been a bit of bad blood between us normal blokes and Nic's kids."

Willow sat in shock. She couldn't take in all that they had said. "You mean, Luc can go out in the day? He doesn't even have to feed?"

"Yes and No. He has to have blood once a month. That's it. Nic has about a dozen children around the world that he's embraced. They are all like Luc. Nic told me once
that he never wanted to be responsible for them killing humans to live, so he found a way to prevent it. He's always been a strange guy, Red. Used to be really into
the occult....sort of grew out of that though. He hasn't embraced a childe in over 150 years. He really hates to do it. He sort of just adopts them...I'm surprised you
didn't notice something about Luc earlier, though."

"Wow....I just never really thought about it. I wonder if Buffy knows. I can see why y'all might not be fans of Nic's children. They never had to go through the hell that
you both did."

"Yeah.....I guess. I wouldn't trade it though Pet. I love who I am. Part of being a vampire is the hunt and the feed. In some ways I pity them. They are not like us, but
they are also not like mortals. I'm happy being here with you both." Spike said, smiling.

Willow thought about what he had said. "Gosh, you're right. I wonder how they can live like that. At least, you both know who you are....That's sad."

"Come on....it's getting late. You need to rest. Tomorrow, you're going shopping with Buffy and Cordelia. You will need your energy, trust me." Angel said as he went
behind Willow and prodded her up the stairs.

"He's right. That cheerleader lives to shop." Spike said in disgust, following them. "Glad you're home, Luv."

Willow smiled and looked at them both. "Me too."

next