A Viking In L.A.
By JamesChick
Chapter 5"I still don't see what's wrong with my clothes!"
Spike paced back and forth in the hotel lobby as Xander and Angel shared a look.
"Especially coming from you! At least I don't wear hawaiian shirts, how you can dress like that and critisize my taste is beyond me."
"I haven't worn a Hawaiian shirt since the night I died. And besides, I picked those clothes for a reason. They were cheap, and the way I was always being tossed around was hard on my clothes."
"Your clothes were hard on my eyes!"
"I dress much better now. Thank you very much. And at least I'm not stuck in the same outfit night after night, year after year, decade after..."
"Alright! You made your bleedin' point. But I refuse to wear anything ugly or poncy."
"Uh uh. You screamed, you lost. I get to pick whatever I want. I can make you wear a leather thong and nothing else if I choose."The two men looked at each other, lust shining in their eyes.
"Wouldn't mind that luv, just get one fer yerself as well eh?"
Angel groaned and shook his head. It was bad enough trying to get Cordelia to believe him when he said that he didn't hear anything last night when Spike roared and shook the building. He knew that sound. It could only mean one thing. Spike had gotten laid. Very well from the sound of it. He certainly didn't need any visuals to accompany the noises next time.
When he saw the two younger vampires earlier in the evening he had asked them if they would try to be a bit quieter next time. That was when it was explained to him that they were testing Spike's ability to be quiet, and that he lost. Angel thought it was a good bet, if it got Spike to wear anything other than denim and leather he was all for it.
"I'll think about it. But first, clothes for you. I'm thinking tight leather pants and silk shirts. Maybe we'll get your eyebrow pierced. Oooh or your belly button! You know how much I love to play with your navel."
The lust flared in Spikes eyes again. He'd never really considered a piercing before, but the way Xander looked at him when he said it.... He was definately thinking about it now.
"Right then, lets go shall we. Night's a waisting."
Xander shrugged his shoulders, grinned at Angel and pulled Spike out of the hotel with him.
---
A few hours later the one happy and one not-so-happy vampires were heading back to the hotel. It was such a nice night they had decided to walk rather than drive to the store, it gave Xander an excuse to show off his sexy mate to the nightlife of L A. Unfortunately, bigots are everywhere, even in big cities like LA. The group of young human men on the sidewalk in front of them didn't take to kindly to the sight of two men holding hands and kissing.The vampires ignored the insults they hurled at them and continued on their way. The humans didn't leave it at that though, and that was their mistake. When one of them took a swing at Spike Xander reacted.
Spike ducked the first blow and would have avoided the second as well but he didn't need to. Xander caught the mans fist and squeezed it hard enough to break bone. He threw the man back away from Spike just as one of the others came at them with a pipe.
"Spike, stay out of the way okay? I don't want one of these assholes to get in a lucky shot on you."
"Sure pet, don't worry 'bout me. Just give 'em hell."Xander didn't change to game face, athough his eyes did flash yellow a few times out of anger. His mate was defenseless against these humans and it pissed him off. He made quick work of any that came near him, minding his strength so he didn't kill them or damage them too badly. Spike stayed back out of the way, Xander between him and the humans but he did throw out comments and suggestions such as 'Bite that one, luv. He's pissing me off.' and 'He touched you! Tear his soddin' throat out!' and Xander's favorite 'We gonna shag when your done luv? 'Cause watching you fight gets me so bloody hot!' That one was not appreciated by the homophobic group of humans.
When it was over, Xander had an odd feeling of familiarity about one of the men. Like he'd seen him before. It was annoying, but not enough to keep him from getting Spike back to the hotel and into bed. Or on the floor, or against the wall.
Angel sensed the younger vampires presense as they entered the hotel and came out of his office to greet them, he was curious to see what Xander had chosen for Spike to wear. As long as it wasn't the thong, he didn't need to be thinking about that. He stopped and studied the two curiously. Spike was tense, angry even. Xander didn't look much happier, he was rigid, and Angel could feel the tension in the air. Both men looked about ready to burst they were so wound up.
"What happened?"
"Just a small fight, Angel. Nothing to worry about."
"Demons?"
"Humans! We were attacked by bloody self righteous homophobic humans. Just for walking down the street holding hands."
"That's it? They just attacked you? For no reason?"
"Yeah. So much for the enlightened attitudes of a big city."
"What happened Xander? Was anyone hurt?"
"We're fine. I didn't hurt them, well not alot."
"Okay. I uh, I have some work to catch up on so I'll just leave you guys be and get back to it."
Angel retreated back into his office to think. He knew that Xander was a vampire, that just because he had a soul it didn't always repress the demon but he wasn't used to seeing the new Xander. The Xander who was fiercely possessive of Spike, who fought extremely well, and could kill with deadly force. It unnerved him.
Angel knew that it was his own guilt that kept his demon from resurfacing more often. He had the murder of thousands of innocent people to keep him wallowing in misery for the rest of his unnatural existance. That was a big reason he was the way he is, Liam had been a drunk and a womanizer but he was always a fun-loving guy and enjoyed life to it's fullest. The man he was then and the being he was now were so far apart from one another as to be seperate entities. He envied Xander his carefree existance. To have no guilt to hold you down, and all that power and heightened awareness yet still have a soul to keep you true to your own moral code. He hoped Xander could remain in control of his baser instincts without having centuries worth of guilt to keep him in line.
---
Xander and Spike took their shopping bags up to their room and settled in on the loveseat. The post-fight-wanna-shag-you-now desperation had faded and both of them were now thinking about the humans who had attacked them. Xander had barely surpressed his demons insistance that they at least bite those people that had gone after him and his mate. And it had been a while since he'd had any human blood. Not since the night his Sire had died. Spike had still had a few bags left over but Xander refused to take any of it, he knew that Spike needed it far more than he did. Tonight, the temptation was strong, very strong.Spike was still fuming over having to be protected from beings that were supposed to be his food. He cursed the Initiative for probably the hundred-millionth time since he'd gotten the chip. He was happy with Xander, and that was the only thing the chip had given him, the time to get to know the man who was now his lover and mate. Still, he wanted to be whole. He wanted to be able to defend himself, not have to rely on his mate to always be there. What if Xander wasn't there the next time some human decided to go after him?
Really, it came down to one thing for both of them. The chip. Xander wouldn't need to be so protective of Spike if he could defend himself, and Spike wouldn't feel so helpless if he could. Xander was trying to come to terms with the fact that he wanted to free his lover from his disability. Even if it meant he would kill again and he would possibly lose him. Spike was trying to figure out if Xander would allow him to use the money he'd set aside for him to bribe some surgeon into removing the chip.
"Spike."
"Xander."They both spoke at once. Looked at each other and smiled.
"You first."
"Nah, you go ahead pet."
"I want to find a way to fix you."
"....."
"I know that I probably shouldn't, that it means you could kill again and that Buffy will probably stake you or at least try to. But I..I love you. And seeing you in pain is just about killing me. So if you have any ideas, I mean...if money was what was holding you back? I'll take care of it."Spike sat with his mouth hanging open in shock. He hadn't expected Xander to offer him his unlife back like that. He had a soul, he assumed that he would want to keep the human race safe from him. He didn't want to lose his mate in order to get his freedom, it was too high a price.
"Xander...? You...you would do that? For me?"
"I love you. Of course I would."
"I don't know what to say pet. I'm honored. I hate this bloody chip, I hate being weak, I hate the fact that I can't even defend myself against a bunch of bloody stupid pricks who are so uptight about two men kissing that they have to lash out to prove their own masculinity."
"So, that a yes then? We'll find a way to help you?"
"What about the scoobies, luv? They won't like this."
"They don't have to, just...promise me you won't kill them."
"Never pet. They helped me when I needed it the most, I like them...most of the time. Tell them that and I won't shag you for a week though!"Xander laughed and pulled Spike into his arms. He kissed his mate passionately, hoping that they could survive this. Eventually he drew back from his lover with a heartfelt sigh.
"So, any ideas on where to start?"
"Not really. Hadn't given it much thought other than find a doctor, pay a doctor, get chip out. Seeing as how I was broke, it didn't go any further than that."
"Hmm, well I guess we can start by asking around the demon bars, see if anyone knows of any doctors who are aware of demons and such."
"It's a start. Can we get back to the more pleasant business of you shagging me now?"
"I think I can manage that love."And manage he did. The couple spent the rest of the night making love, both privately wondering if they would have many more chances with the other to do this. By the time the sun rose the next morning they were completely spent, curled around each other and drifting into a deep, much
needed sleep.---
Angel sent everyone home early that night. He didn't want to continue to hear his friends commenting on his Childe and his mates sex lives. They were being quite verbal and loud. It was kinda sweet in a way, Angel clearly heard the words of love and affection they spoke to each other. He was happy that Spike had found someone to share his life with. After a century of existing only to look after someone else, it was good for him to be in a position where he was cared for, for a change. Although Xander being the one was still a shock. He knew that as a vampire gender made no difference as to who you slept with but as a human, Xander had always been very much straight. He just assumed that with his soul still intact, he would continue to be interested in females. It was obvious that he was wrong. As Angelus, he had screwed anything that caught his eye male or female, but since becoming Angel he found that he was much more inclined toward females than males.Since Gunn and Fred started dating, she spent most nights at his place instead of in her room at the hotel so Angel had the place to himself-with the exception of Xander and Spike-after his staff left. He went to his room and slipped on his headphones and listened to Vivaldi while he read some poetry. It drowned out the noise of his guests. He wondered if they were always this passionate with each other or if something had happened to set it off. Spike had always used sex as a way of reassuring himself in a relationship. The more worried he was, the more he wanted to 'shag'. And seeing as they had been at it all night....it must have been something pretty big.
Chapter 6Spike woke to the sound of running water, Xander was in the shower again. Though after last night he did need it. Spike reached for the battered pack of cigarettes on the night table and found it empty. He cursed softly, he really wanted a smoke. Grumbling about not being able to join his lover in the shower he got up and dressed.
Spike was just leaving the hotel when Cordelia came up the walk.
"Evening princess."
"Spike, where's your better half?"
"He's in the shower, I'm just nipping out for a pack of fags."
"A pack of..? Oh. Cigarettes. Hey, how long are you and Xan staying?"
"Eager to get rid of us luv?"
"Hardly! I've never had so much time off. You guys keep up the loud sex noises, I enjoy being sent home early."
"Glad to be of service pet."
"I'm sure you are. If what I heard last night was any indicator, I'd say you were VERY glad."
"You really should have shagged the boy when you had the chance, you know. He's quite talented."
"So I hear. If I'd have known then I would have kept him."
"My gain then, gotta go luv, don't want to keep my pet waiting."Spike headed off toward the corner store and Cordelia went inside the hotel. She was still thinking about what Spike had said. She was glad that Xander was so happy, but she did sometimes think that she let the best one get away.
When Xander came downstairs Spike was still out at the store.
"Hey Cordy. Seen Spike anywhere?"
"He went to the store. He was out of cigarettes."
"Oh, okay. Angel in?"
"In his office, brooding."
"How come?"
"Don't know. He's been fine lately, but when I came in tonight I found him in there staring off into space, broody expression firmly in place. I have no idea what set him off."
"I'm gonna go speak to him, maybe I'll get some answers."Xander knocked on Angels door and then walked in. Just as Cordy had said, Angel was brooding. Xander pulled up a chair and sat down.
"Penny for your thoughts."
"Huh? Oh, Xander. When did you come in?"
"Just now. So why the broody thoughts?"
"It's nothing."
"And somehow I don't believe that."
"Fine, (sigh) I'm worried about Spike."
"Why? What happened. Did you guys fight?"
"No. Nothing like that. Actually I was going to ask you if something had happened."
"Why?"
"Uh, well....okay. Last night, you guys were ah...."
"Shagging?"(smirk)
"Yeah. But I mean, oh hell! Do you guys always go at it for hours at a time? Not that I'm trying to pry or.... anything. It's just I know Spike, and when he's upset or feeling insecure he tends to use sex to reassure himself."
"Oh. Well that makes sense. I never imagined having this conversation with you, you know?"
"Me either."
"It was a little out of the ordinary, I just figured he wanted to put on a show. You know how he is."
"Yeah, I do. Did anything happen to set him off? Besides those guys last night."
"Yeah, we talked. I uh, I told him I wanted to fix him."
"Fix him?"
"The chip."
"Are you serious? Xander, he'll kill again."
"I know. I'm still going to help him. Angel, it isn't right. He should be able to defend himself, I'm hoping that he won't go back to being a ruthless killer. That maybe, for me, he'd give it up. I-I'm afraid I might really hurt someone trying to protect him."
"Xander, are you okay?"
"Yeah, no, I don't know. I'm not sure. I love him, and I want to protect him. Last night when those guys attacked us, I wanted to kill them. My demon, he was very insistant that we bite them, I didn't but it was hard. If Spike were able to defend himself I wouldn't get so worked up you know?"
"I understand that Xander. You want to protect what's yours. As the stronger of the two of you, it puts you in the alpha position. You will always feel protective of him, chip or not. But It would probably be easier to deal with your demon if you knew he wasn't helpless."They sat together in silence for a few minutes before Angel spoke.
"Do you know how your going to do it?"
"No clue. We figured we'd ask around, see if anyone knows any doctors who are aware of vampires. See if they could help. Money's not a problem so it should be do-able."Another lengthy pause.
"Angel? Why do you think Spike is feeling insecure?"
"He probably thinks of this as a double edged sword. On one side he's getting what he wanted, his chip out. But on the other side, by getting his bite back he runs the risk of losing you. He probably thinks that you'll leave him once he's whole."
"I wouldn't!"
"Xander, if he kills again....how will that make you feel? Can you live with yourself if you just stand by while he murders people?"
"I-I, I don't know. I love him Angel. I won't give him up. We'll find a way to deal with this."
"Talk to him. Before the chip comes out. Maybe he doesn't want to go back to what he was either. But the two of you need to talk about this. You need to figure out how to deal with a chipless Spike. Plus you know, there's Buffy. She won't like this Xander. She may even stake him."Xanders eyes flashed and he growled.
"She can try, but she won't touch him! I won't allow it!"
"This is exactly why you two should talk. You can't go around growling at Buffy, especially over Spike. You are her friend Xander and she has some feelings for Spike, but without his chip he becomes a threat and she'll do her duty at the first sign that he's feeding again."Xander shook off his anger and stood.
"Thanks Angel. You've given me alot to think about. I'll talk to Spike when he gets back from the store."
Xander left the office. Angel sighed and put his head down on the desk. He was just as torn as Spike and Xander. On one hand he wanted Spike to be whole again. He worried about him not being able to defend himself. Angel knew that humans could be just as dangerous, or even more dangerous than demons. The lawyers at Wolfram & Hart were proof of that. But on the other hand, he didn't want Spike to go back to the angry viscious killer he had been. They were starting to become friends and Angel didn't want to lose that. Spike had a good life now, Xander made him happy, he had friends, and he had a future. He hoped he didn't throw away his best chance to be happy over being able to hunt again.
Xander went back to his and Spike's room. He rifled through the bags of clothing they had purchased the night before. He was hoping to convince Spike to wear some of it and go out with him that night, maybe to a club or something. He pulled out a pair of charcoal grey wool slacks and a sweater as blue as Spike's eyes. They were nice, but definately not club wear. Next he found the bag that held the leather pants he had insisted on. There were two pairs, one black of course, and one red. He personally liked the red but Spike was a predictable vampire if nothing else. He liked the black.
Next came the bag of silk shirts. One blue, one metallic silver - both Xander's choices, one black and one red - Spike's choices. Then there was the footwear. Xander had insisted that he get a new pair of boots. So one new pair of black DM's and one pair of italian leather shoes - to go with the dress slacks. He did buy the matching leather thongs, but Spike didn't know about that purchase - it was a surprise for when they got home.
Xander bought a few things for himself as well. He purchased shiny black leather pants - tight enough that he couldn't breath, good thing he didn't need to. He also bought a pair of leather boots, and a chocolate-brown silk shirt. He laid these out on the bed along side Spikes red leather pants and silver silk shirt. When his lover came back he would get him into the shower and then out to a club. Xander was rubbing his hands together in anticipation when he heard the scream.
"ANGEL!! XANDER!!"
Xander flew down the stairs just as Angel ran out of his office, they almost crashed into each other in the lobby trying to get to Cordelia. Cordelia herself was just starting to come back down from the ceiling. She was crying and looking at Xander with such sorrow that he knew before she even spoke.
"Spike."
"Oh Xander, it was awful. We have to get him back."Angel stepped forward and took his seer in his arms.
"Where is he Cordy? Where is Spike?"
"Just outside L A, in an old textile plant. Angel, they're torturing him."Xander was livid, he was in full game face and snarling.
"Who's torturing him? Who has my mate?"
"Humans, Xander. A man with short black hair, green eyes and a tatoo on his left shoulder. There are others but he seems to be the one in charge."Xander snarled and went into a mindless rage. It was the man from last night. He remembered now why he seemed familiar, the Initiative. Xander had seen him on campus with Forest, Graham and Riley. That man knew what Spike was and how to hurt him best.
Angel watched as Xander's demon took over. He was torn between joining him, letting Angelus out to play, or calming him and getting Xander back in control. Eventually common sense won out and he approached Xander cautiously.
"Xander, this isn't helping Spike. We need to go, and unless you calm yourself you won't be coming with us." Before Angel knew what hit him Xander had him against the wall on the far side of the lobby and was right up in his face. His fangs were inches from Angels throat when he spoke.
"Spike is *MINE* you will not leave here with out me. No one takes what is mine, they will die by my hand! If you even so much as *think* of leaving me behind I will tear out your throat and go without you. Do we understand each other?"
Angel nodded mindlessly. He never thought that Xander Harris would scare him but at that moment he knew without a doubt that Xander would kill him without blinking an eye. He pitied the people who had Spike, hopefully Xander would get control of the demon before he killed them because Angel knew he wouldn't be able to stop him.
Xander dropped Angel just as Gunn, Fred and Wesley entered the hotel. Angel and Xander walked wordlessly to the weapons cabinet and armed themselves while Cordelia explained to the others. In the end, Fred had remained behind to watch the office while the others went after Spike. Angel drove with Xander beside him in the front seat the other three piled into the back, no one wanted to be any closer to Xander than neccesary.
In the front seat Xander was trying to wrest control back from the demon. He was worried about Spike, his demon was worried about Spike. He needed to be in control when they got there, after what had happened in the hotel with Angel he knew he would kill those men without thought if he allowed the demon to have control. He wanted to kill them, deep in his soul he craved their death but he wouldn't do it. Not if he could help it. He needed to get Spike, then he needed to get that chip out of his head. He also needed to apologise to Angel but that would have to wait until later. Right now he needed to focus on Spike.
Chapter 7As soon as the car slowed down enough Xander jumped out and ran toward the front of the old building. He flung open the door and quickly searched the room for Spike. He wasn't in sight. Xander roared in frustration and moved further into the building. He heard the others come in behind him but didn't wait on them to catch up. He found a set of stairs on the far side of the room and flew up them at break-neck speed.
There were two humans in the doorway but Xander wasted no time on them, merely grabbing them both and throwing them down the stairs. He'd let Angel and his crew deal with them. He only wanted to get to Spike.
Spike was pratically unconcious, he had been beaten, burned, cut open, and hung up to wait for sunrise. He knew that he would be dust in a few hours, the giant gaping hole in the wall beside him was on the east side of the building and he was shackled to a beam on the ceiling. He heard noise from downstairs and thought it was his abductors coming back to play some more. Then he heard the roar of his mate. His Xander had come for him. He was relieved but not strong enough to call out for him.
Angel found the two men lying crumpled at the foot of the stairs. They would live. He was almost disappointed. He dragged them out back of the building and tied them up. He'd send Gunn and Wesley back later to check if they were still here.
Xander could smell his mates blood as soon as he was at the top of the stairs. It was dry, and had been for hours. He followed the scent and it led him to his lover. When he saw the condition his lover was in he let out another howl of rage before swiftly crossing to his lovers side. He grabbed the chain that suspended his mate from the ceiling and tore it down. Spike had been stripped naked and he was covered in various burns and cuts all over his body. Xander took off his coat and wrapped it around his mate. He scooped Spike up into his arms and carried him down the stairs and out to Angels car. No one came near him.
Angel gave his keys to Cordelia and told her to drive. He slid into the back seat with a growling snarling Xander and an unconcious Spike. Wesley and Gunn squeezed into the front with Cordy. Angel tried to calm Xander but he knew he wasn't listening. Finally he managed to get his attention by stating that Spike needed to feed or he could be in serious danger. Xanders' yellow eyes flickered to Angel and then to Spike. He knew that Angel was right, he needed to get blood into Spike and fast.
Given his options, which were few, he cradled Spike closer to himself and cut a deep gouge into his own neck. He pressed his lovers face to the wound and sighed in relief when he felt Spike begin to pull at his blood. He wrapped his arms protectively around his mate and kept a weary eye on the other vampire in the backseat. He knew that Angel would have offered his blood to Spike as well, but Xander was feeling extremely possessive right now and didn't want the other man anywhere near his mate. Spike could drain him before he would allow Angel to get close.
Spike felt the protective embrace his mate was holding him in. He knew he was safe now and so he allowed himself to pass out. When he woke again it was to the feel of motion, and the taste of blood. Xanders blood. He quickly realized that they were in a car, Angels most likely and that Xander had cut himself to feed him. He tried to stop before draining his love too badly but when he went to pull away Xanders hand held him there firmly, pushing him further into his neck. Spike was far too weak still to put up much of a fight, so he dropped his fangs and bit into his mate over the rapidly healing cut. He drank deeply of the potent blood of his lover.
Xander felt Spike's teeth slice through his flesh and immediately began to calm. If Spike was able to bite him, to feed for himself then he would be alright. He glanced over at Angel and saw that the older vampire was watching him with an odd expression on his face. He thought over everything he'd said or done that night. He had threatened Angel, swore to kill the men who took Spike, and pretty much went all grr at everyone. Well what did they expect? He was a vampire! Okay, yeah so he was still Xander, he had his soul, but really, he was always this way. Protective of his 'pack' and Spike was his mate for God sake. Like Angel wouldn't have done that for Buffy once upon a time, or for Cordy now.
Xander's eyes closed as he began to feel light headed from bloodloss. He knew that he should stop Spike from drinking but he was too concerned with his mate's health to do it. He held Spike tightly and began to drift into blackness. Angel watched Xander pass out and only then did he dare to touch Spike. He gently pulled on Spike's shoulder, trying to pry him from Xander's neck. When that didn't work he spoke to him in a low voice, hoping Xander wouldn't hear.
"Spike, William, you have to stop now."
Spike didn't respond, he kept drinking.
"Spike. Xander is unconcious. He's lost too much blood. You have to stop."
That got Spike's attention. He lifted his head from Xanders neck and looked between his mate and his Sire. He saw how pale Xander looked and he felt horrible. He turned his attention to Angel.
"Will he be alright? Did I hurt him?"
"No, he'll be fine. Just, he'll need to feed when we get back to the hotel. Are you okay?"
"M'fine peaches. Just worried about Xander. How'd you guys find me?"
"Cordelia had a vision."
"'Bout me? Since when do the powers give a rat's ass 'bout me?"
"Since now apparently. William, Xander really loves you."
"I know that Sire."
"Do you? He threatened to rip my throat out tonight. And he swore death to the people who took you. He went crazy when he found out you had been taken."
"What did you do to piss him off?"
"Nothing. Just told him to calm himself or I'd go with out him. Next thing I know I'm up against a wall with his fangs at my throat. He would have done it too."
"I told you, he loves me."
"That's not human love Spike. He loves you like a demon loves. Possessively."
"It's more than that, it's both. Xander loves me with his whole heart, soul and demon combined. I love him too, the only way I know how. Completely."
"But I have a soul and a demon, I never behaved that way about anyone. Not even Buffy."
"You weren't listening. He loves me completely. Demon and soul. You loved the slayer with everything in your soul but Angelus hated her. He would never have accepted her as a mate, she's a slayer. She never accepted your baser nature, always pretended you were a man and not a demon with a soul. I know what my mate is and I love and accept him completely, wouldn't change him if I could. That's what makes the difference."
"So you're saying that Buffy could never be my mate? Even if I found a way to make my soul permanent?"
"No, she could be your soul-mate, but she'd never be your true mate. Not the way I am to Xander. Your secretary on the other hand...."
"Drop it William!"
"Sure peaches."The rest of the trip back was made in silence. When they got to the hotel Spike slid out of Xanders arms and made sure the coat was securely fastened before lifting Xander out of the car and carrying him inside. Angel had offered to help, but Spike had pointed out that if Xander were to awaken to find himself being carried by Angel it probably wouldn't go over well considering the nights earlier activities.
Spike took Xander up to their room and laid him out on the bed. He moved the clothing that Xander had obviously put out earlier over to the dresser. Just as he was pulling on a pair of jeans Angel knocked on the door and gently opened it. He stepped inside the room with a tray loaded down with blood.
"I thought I could at least bring you guys some blood."
"Thanks Angel. What do you mean at least?"
"Well, I wasn't very instrumental to your rescue. Hell, I could have given Xander my car and directions, that's how much the rest of us were needed."
"Have you seen him drive when he's upset? I'd still be hangin' there waiting for sunrise while he was busy trying to unwrap yer car from a tree or a post somewhere."Angel set the tray down and looked at his Childe seriously.
"I would be honored if you would allow me to accept Xander into our family as your Sire. I know that traditionally Dru would be the one to perform such a ceremony as she is your blood Sire, or even Angelus would have the right by claiming you. I'm not Angelus, but I still fell like your Sire, I still love you. I would like to acknowledge your claim on Xander and his on you."
Spike was stunned. He never imagined he would have the mating ceremony. Dru would never allow him to take someone other than her as mate, and their mating was not recognised by their order because Angelus would not give up his position as alpha over Dru. Angelus was not here to grant such permission, and if he were he would not approve of Xander because he was souled and a friend of the slayer. Angel was offering something that he thought was impossible to him a few minutes before.
"I'd like that Sire. I need to ask Xander first. He might not want to make it so....formal."
"I think you're wrong, but ask him. I'll be downstairs when you decide."Angel turned and left the room. Spike lied down on the bed with his mate and stroked Xanders face lightly with his fingertips. He needed to wake him but he didn't want to startle him either.
"Xander, luv, wake up. You need to eat something pet. You're pale as a ghost."
"Mmm. Spike?"
"I'm here luv, come on. Time to eat."
"You're okay? All better?"
"M'fine luv, thanks to you. You shouldn't have let me take so much, I nearly drained you."
"But you didn't. You stopped."
"Peaches stopped me. Told me you'd passed out, I didn't relize I had taken so much."
"I knew Angel was there, I was safe from you draining me."Spike helped Xander to sit up and brought him the first mug full of blood. Xander drank it quickly so as not to taste it. He handed the mug back to Spike and took the next one drinking it quickly as well. He managed to drink all six of the mugs even though he hated the taste. He needed it so he drank it. Spike put the last mug back on the tray and then sat next to his lover on the bed. He told Xander what Angel had said about accepting him into the family as Spike's mate and that he wanted to do it but not if Xander didn't.
"What does it mean Spike?"
"It means that your mine. That I'm yours."
"We already are."
"To each other and to our friends, to a room full of demons at Willy's. But to the average demon walking down the street it means jack. If you're out on your own, and some demon takes a fancy to you they don't know that you're taken, same as me. We don't have a signature, a scent marker."
"A scent marker?"
"Yeah. I mean you smell like me and I smell like you because of sex, but after a shower, or being outside on a windy night, the scent fades. This is permanent. It sends off a sort of signal, basically that we're off the market, that we're exclusive."
"We are."
"I know. What we have right now is fine, if you don't want to do this it's okay...."
"I didn't say that. I just want to understand why Angel saying it's okay changes anything."
"Oh. Uh, it's like the difference between a marriage and a commitment ceremony. When the witches tie the knot it will be all nice and lovey and it will mean something to them and the rest of us. But to the world at large it won't mean a damn thing because it isn't legal. What we have right now is like a commitment ceremony, it means something to us and our friends, but not to the world. If we go through with the ritual, it would be like a marriage. Every demon we ever meet would recognize us as a couple immediately."
"So, you're like... proposing to me?"
"Yeah, ya git. I am."
"Then I accept. But as the wife you have to wear the dress.... Martha."
Chapter 8It had been just over an hour since Spike proposed and Xander accepted. They had spent that time in bed together, Xander inspecting every inch of his mates body, seeing that the damage was healed in most places already. They made love, slowly with soft touches and sweet words. It was just for them this time, they weren't out to embarrass Angel or his staff. When they were finished and curled around each other Xander decided he should tell Spike what had happened between him and Angel.
"Spike?"
"Yeah luv?"
"Did Angel say why he wanted to do this ceremony?"
"No, just that he approves of us being together, and that he would be honored to have you in the family."
"I'm shocked."
"Why?"
"Well aside from the obvious, I threatened to kill him tonight Spike, I would have done it too. I lost it when I found out you were gone, when I realized who had you. Angel said he'd go without me and I almost dusted him for it."
"I know, he told me. We had a chat on the way back after you passed out. I think you impressed him. Not too many vampires take mates, and those that do usually do it for power or safety or even sex, rarely for love. He just didn't understand how you could love me so much, what with you having a soul and all."
"I need to talk to him. Apologise for what I said, what I did."
"Alright pet. You want me to go with you?"
"No, I should do this myself."
"Xander? You said you realized who had me, who was it?"
"You didn't recognize him?"
"That bloke from last night? Yeah, but I have the feeling there's more to it than that."
"There is, he's an Initiative member. I didn't figure it out until it was too late. I saw him on campus with Finn and his goon squad. He looked familiar but I just couldn't place him. Not until after you were gone. I'm sorry."
"Hey, not your fault luv. I didn't recognize him either."Xander kissed Spike and slipped out of bed. He threw on a pair of jeans and a T-shirt and went in search of Angel. Spike remained in bed with a smile on his face. Xander had agreed to the ceremony, Spike was estatic.
Xander found Angel in the kitchen having coffee and reading the paper. He got himself a cup of coffee and sat on the chair opposite to Angel. He waited until the older vampire put the paper down before speaking.
"Angel, about earlier. I'm sorry. I just...."
"I know. Spike was gone, Cordy said he was being tortured and you reacted."
"But...I tried to... I said I would.... aren't you even a little pissed with me?"Angel laughed. He saw the shock cross Xanders face and he laughed harder. When he managed to regain his control he answered Xanders question.
"I'm not angry with you. You were only trying to protect your mate, Spike, I was shocked, maybe even a little frightened, but not angry. The truth is I'm impressed. I never thought anyone would see worth in Spike. He's brash, rude, arrogant, and a pain in the ass. William was a soft hearted human, he was a poet, a lover, a beautiful young man who wore his heart on his sleeve and his pain in his eyes.
William never knew it but his life was forfeit from the moment I laid eyes on him. If Dru hadn't turned him that night I would have. I would have taken him for my own. As it were, Dru was incapable of training a Childe so I claimed him. William was a wonderful young vampire, eager to learn, and eager to please his Sire, either of them. I loved him, he was favored by me, even over my Dru. With the soul, and with William turning himself into Spike, things became complicated. I still love him, but he isn't my William anymore. I never got to know who he has become over the time we were seperated, other than the rude, arrogant, pain in the ass that he plays at for my benefit. I hurt him when I left, and he hurts me now to make up for it. I'm grateful to you for loving him, for caring for him, for wanting him. So why would I be angry at you for protecting him? Even from me?"
Xander was stunned. He had always assumed that Angel merely tolerated Spike because they were family, and that now that Spike was harmless to humans he wanted to try to be freinds. He never knew that Angel still loved Spike when he was with Buffy and Spike was still the Big Bad. It had to have been hard on him, fighting his own Childe.
"So your serious about this ceremony thing then?"
"Yes. Did Spike explain it to you?"
"The basics yeah, but how exactly is it done? We don't have to ah....have sex or anything do we?"
"Who? You and Spike? Or you and me?"
"......"
"I'm joking Xander. No one has any sex. It's like a wedding, only with biting."
"Biting?"
"Yeah, I will have to bite you, and you'll have to bite me. Same thing with Spike."
"So there's going to be biting all around. I can live with that. This is really important to Spike, so if I have to bite you I'll do it."Xander smiled at Angel to let him know he was joking. Angel smiled back.
"Who knew it would come to this, Xander Harris offering me his neck. Must be the first sign of an impending apocolypse."
"No, that would have been me taking Spike as a mate. Sex with male vampires was much higher on my "Never gonna happen" list than letting you bite me. "
"About that. Were you...I mean before you were turned did you..."
"Did I what? Think Spike was sexy? Have lustful thoughts about men?"
"Yeah. Did you?"
"Nope. Straight as they come. Never even thought about it, other than "sounds painful, no thanks." I figure it's a vampire thing. Right?"
"Yes. The demon that takes over isn't partial to either sex, or any species. Basically a vampire will screw anything that doesn't screw it first. I just thought that with you having your soul you would still be basically the same as before, you know."
"Do you not find men attractive since you got your soul?"
"No, not really. I mean yeah I still think that Spike is beautiful, and I find some men astetically pleasing but I haven't had an urge to bed any of them. I assumed because as a human I was very taken with the ladies that it was my souls influence, not being bisexual anymore."
"Hmmm, you and Angelus share that body but it's a constant struggle for dominance isn't it"
"Yes. I always feel him trying to break free, gain control."
"That's probably why then. I don't fight my demon, it doesn't master me nor does it try to. We agree on most things, we both love Spike, we both want to protect our family, and we both like to fight....now that I can. The odd time there is a disagreement, I usually win. I don't bite people when they piss me off, even though I know the demon wants to. That's really the only thing we disagree on. When that happens I usually bite Spike. It calms the demon and well, Spike loves it when I bite him."
"I remember. I envy you for your control. I can't imagine how it would feel to not have this constant struggle for supremecy. To allow myself to be happy with someone, to love completely. Do you know Spike told me that Buffy could never be my mate? Even if my soul was permanent?"
"No, I didn't. Why?"
"Because Angelus would never accept her, and she would never accept him. Spike accepts you completely, demon and soul. Buffy was my soul-mate, but we could never have what you and Spike have. I don't know when he got so smart."
"I never knew I could love anyone this much. Spike is my....everything."
"Have you spoken with him about the chip?"
"No, with everything that's happened there wasn't time. I will though."
"You should do it soon. Before the ritual."
"I will. Thanks Angel."
"For what?"
"For accepting me, for making Spike happy, for not throwing me out on my ass for trying to kill you."
"Oh, you're welcome."Xander headed back up to his mate to talk about the chip. He wanted it gone, there was no question about it. Tonight just proved that it was neccesary. He didn't want to lose Spike over this though, he hoped that Spike would refrain from hunting humans for food but he couldn't demand it of him. There had to be some sort of agreement they could make. Xander stopped outside their door and listened. He could hear Spike inside the room humming and moving around. Xander sighed and opened the door.
"Spike, we need to talk."