Chapter 10

“How many days,” Buffy asked softly as they sat on the beach watching the sun go down. She was in William’s lap and sheltered by his arms.

“About eight.”

“Barely a week,” she whispered, staring ahead, knowing that if she looked at him, she’d cry.

“Hush, love, don’t think about it.” William held her tightly and took a deep breath, inhaling the scent of her hair. “Think happy thoughts, Buffy.”

“Like you staying forever,” Buffy suggested weakly. “I’d take you home and you’d never leave me.”

“That sounds delightful.”

“And too good to be true, huh?”

“Buffy…”

“You’d see all my family and friends. Everything would be perfect. Mom would let you move in with us and maybe you could even take me to prom… They’d all love you, even Xander, who’s usually a jealous brat.”

William brushed her hair away and kissed her neck. “Maybe…this might be crazy to suggest but…maybe Elizabeth could send you with me? We could have another month in my time.”

“What would we do? Where would you take me?” Buffy asked, rubbing his knee. “I’d wear pretty dresses, right?”

“Only the most exceptional dresses,” William said, his warm breath blowing against her skin and giving her goose bumps. “You’d see how I usually look: floppy brown hair, glasses, a scratchy suit. I’d introduce you to my mother, after I apologized of course.”

“For what?”

“She always insisted that the woman of my dreams was waiting for me and I told her it was hopeless—that she was speaking nonsense. She never lost faith…”

“I like her already. I’d thank her.”

“My mother, she sings when her throat allows her. She’d sing for you.”

“I’ll talk to Elizabeth later or maybe you can. I’ve noticed you guys are becoming buddies lately. Does she not scare you anymore?”

“She’s not as intimidating, yes. We talk, she’s done with her research so we have actual conversations now.”

“What do you talk about?”

“This and that—you,” William mumbled. “Should you put your jacket back on? You’re cold, I can tell.”

“No, just hold me closer, please. Nothing beats body heat,” Buffy said as she wiggled into him. “You talk about me? Should I be upset?”

“No, no.” Shaking his head, he crossed his arms over her waist. “She’s letting me contribute to her book, Buffy.”

“Really? How exciting, baby. When did you start working with her, I’m with you seventy-four seven? I know I catch you all the time writing in the notebook I bought…”

“Well,” William face lit up and he smiled widely, “Buffy, you take a very long time getting ready in the morning. We’ve been working on and off. I help her edit and she’s including a few of my poems in her book.”

Buffy moved to look at him. “You’re letting her see your poems before me? I’ve been begging since the day we met to hear them,” she pouted. “I’m so jealous now.”

“Don’t be. Don’t be upset either, love, you’ll see them.”

She closed her eyes as he pressed his cheek against hers. “When? I want a date and time.”

“I doubt I can be that exact,” he said, laughing softly. “Soon, you have my word and I never break a promise made to a lady.”

Buffy trembled with shivers. “Call me a lady again and I’ll be all over you.”

“And when did that become a bad thing,” William smirked, nuzzling against the side of her face.

“When that guy yelled at us to get a room and you couldn’t hold my hand without blushing for a few days,” Buffy laughed, remembering. “He was probably just a concerned citizen, I think I was turning blue.”

“It’s rude to yell at people like that.”

“William,” Buffy struggled to turn in his lap so their chests were touching. “Back to the point. Soon had better be real soon, mister. I want to hear your poems, damn it.” Buffy shook her finger at him, showing him that she was serious. “If you don’t, I’ll be mad at you.”

“I’m proud of these, Buffy.” Grinning, he bought her hand to his mouth and kissed her fingertip. “I’ve found a new muse.”

“Who would that be? Elizabeth,” she suggested, teasing.

“A lovely and sweet girl full of kindness, wit and beauty—she’s stolen my heart, Buffy.”

Buffy blinked a few times, taking in William’s twinkling eyes. “She doesn’t plan on giving it back, you know that, right? I figure I might as well have yours since you took mine first. Finders, keepers, yada, yada.”

“That sounds fair,” William said warmly.

“Do I get a poem, a bonus for being such a good girl?”

“Not yet, love. I need to…prepare and then I must find the most perfect moment.”

“I’m thinking right now is one hell of a special moment. Take bribery? Bribery in the form of kisses?” She winked, trying to persuade him.

“No, love. I fear I must put my foot down.”

Buffy pouted, but she could tell he was happy to see that she wanted to hear his work and so badly. “I think I’ll kiss you anyway, but if things get out of hand…”

“I’ll take full responsibility. You may blame me and my sinister need to be constantly showered in your kisses.”

“God,” Buffy whimpered due to his words and again when he tilted her chin to reach his mouth.

Can’t believe I taught him everything he knows, Buffy thought, her body buzzing as his hand snaked between them.

“Gah,” she gasped.

“Is this ok?”

“Very ok. More than ok.” Shaking her head repeatedly, she held her breath as he unzipped her pants.

Laughing softly, his hands traveled to her back and she groaned as he cupped her bottom. “You’re wearing that thing.”

“Gotta love the thong. It’s your favorite too.”

“The black one?”

“Yeah, just for you.” Buffy suddenly let out a squeak as his hands moved again. “I’ve told you that you have a set of talented hands, right?”

“Everyday,” William smiled proudly, pressing his finger deeper and making Buffy moan.

“I think I’ll have to upgrade my praising to every two to three hours.”

“You’re funny, Buffy,” William said, chuckling and blushing slightly.

“Am I?” Buffy asked, teasing. Seconds later she began stroking his erection through his pants as he continued moving his fingers.

“You can never stay quiet, Buffy.”

“Oh, yeah? Once I get your zipper down, we’ll see who can’t keep his mouth closed.” Panting out of excitement and anticipation, Buffy messed with the button on his pants until she could pull out his hard cock. It curled towards his belly button and William jumped when she touched him. “Look at you, honey.”

“I can’t help it.” He jumped again as she ran her thumb over the weeping head of his hardness. “Good Lord…”

“Yum,” Buffy grinned after sucking on her thumb.

“Buffy…” William croaked, his eyes wide.

“Hey, keep those fingers of yours busy,” Buffy giggled as he nodded, swallowing and speechless. She spread her legs wider, hoping it would give him more access to her dripping heat. “Wow.” She squeezed him as a wave of pleasure shook her body. “I—there, faster.” Closing her eyes, Buffy was rocketed to her climax. At the same time, she tried to stroke him at a steady pace. “Keep-keep going. Oh, God!”

“Buffy,” he gasped her name, pressing his forehead against her shoulder as he came.

“William, William,” she whined as his fingers left her pants. “Come here, now.” Buffy kissed him until they were both breathless and they fell back against the sand with a grunt. “I think I came twice.”

“Really?”

“Yeah,” Buffy said, her nose pressed against the side of his face. “That was amazing, so much was happening at once.” She protectively covered his exposed, spent cock with her thigh and he inhaled sharply.

“It’s getting dark, love,” he said, wrapping his arms around her. Buffy instantly made herself comfortable, pillowing her head on his chest.

“Just a few more minutes. You’re heart is beating so fast, William.”

“Every time we…my heart, it expands because I fall more deeply in love with you. I find that when we make love or when you laugh or when you smile at me…everything you do has the same affect on me.”

“No, my heart, remember? Mine,” Buffy mumbled, placing her hand on his chest. “I feel the same way…sometimes it hurts,” she whispered. “Never thought I could love someone so much.”

“Are we going to rest here for a while Buffy? I’m feeling tired, I want to rest my eyes.”

“I could take a nap.”
***

“Spike! Where have you been and who the hell are you with?”

“Shit, shit, shit.” Buffy woke up instantly and she covered William’s mouth before he could say anything. “Sit up, honey.”

“She’s coming this way, what are we going to do?”

Buffy buried her face into William’s chest and tucked him back into his pants. “Just say everything that I say. Is she with the antler guy?”

“I believe so,” William whispered. “She looks upset, Buffy.”

“Shhh, you’ll just have to pretend to be Spike. I’ll tell you what to say, just sound mean and cranky. She cheated on you with that thing. Sound annoyed.”

“Spike, answer me,” Drusilla demanded, stepping closer.

“Sod off,” William replied, trying to sound strong.

“Don’t talk to me like that. Where have you been, with that whore?”

William huffed but Buffy poked him. “How is that any of your concern? Bloody hell, you left me, bitch.”

“Good,” Buffy said. “You’re doing great.”

“You seem to have moved on quickly,” Drusilla growled. “Is the rebound fuck helping you get over me?”

“Yes, very much,” William smirked. “You’re nothing to me, sweetheart. I moved on.”

“She’s human,” Drusilla said, disgusted. “You’re fucking a human.” She shrieked, closing her eyes and covering her ears with her hands. “What has become of you? I made you into what you were. I transformed from your pitiful human self and you’ve destroyed all my hard work. That thing reminds you of her, doesn’t she?”

“I haven’t the foggiest of what you’re yammering about.”

“Her! The Slayer! Buffy,” Drusilla wrinkled her nose. “She could be her twin. Don’t lie to me, Spike.”

“Get out of here,” William growled, holding Buffy closer as she hid.

“Love to,” Drusilla glared, taking the Chaos demon by the hand. “I hope you burn.”

“Likewise, pet.”
***

“That was terrifying.”

“I know. I can’t believe she couldn’t tell that you were human…must be a glitch in the spell or something.”

“Spike really talks that way? You knew exactly what to say, she wasn’t suspicious at all.”

“Yeah, I’m a good listener,” Buffy said, blushing. “I guess the way he talks grew on me over our fights…Let’s go back.” She helped him to his feet and zipped her pants.

“Are you upset, Buffy?”

“That was a little too close for comfort but you handled it beautifully. You’re a great actor.”

“Thank you,” William grinned at the compliment as he helped Buffy with putting on her coat. “We must have slept longer than we intended.”

“It’s alright.” She took a hold of his hand. “I just want to get you home and snuggly under the covers.”
***

“Maybe we should make a schedule or something?”

“That sounds fine.”

“Then we can make the most out of this week,” Buffy suggested as they sat on the couch the next morning.

“I just want to be with you, Buffy. What we do isn’t that important.” William covered her hand with his. “I wouldn’t mind staying in today…I like watching the television.”

“We can rent movies too—maybe even ones in English.”

“That sounds wonderful, love.”

“Good morning, Buffy. William.” Elizabeth sat in the chair nearest to them. “What are the lovebirds up to today?”

“TV,” Buffy answered, “William loves his TV.”

“Oh, well, I’m sure you’re both aware that today starts William’s last week.”

“Don’t remind me,” Buffy frowned. “Speaking of the spell, do you think it’s possible for me to go with him?”

“To 1880?”

“Yeah, not for good, just for a month.”

“Yes, can you make it happen, Elizabeth? Neither of us wants to leave each other so soon,” William added.

“I’ll look into it,” she said. “It’s a brilliant idea, but until then, I hate to even suggest this but, William, starting tonight, I need you to sleep in the living room and tied into a chair.”

“No!”

“Buffy, it’ll be the safest choice for all of us. If Spike returns during the night, no one will be in danger of getting hurt. It’s for the best, dear.”

“I can take Spike,” Buffy insisted, gritting her teeth.

“I know you can but if he attacks when you’re…vulnerable… Remember, he wanted to kill you minutes before the spell?”

“He didn’t.”

“But he tried.”

“No he didn’t, he barely fought back,” Buffy argued. “I won’t let you keep William away from me. We only have a week and there’s no way that you’re taking him away from me.”

“Buffy, he’ll be here--.”

“Just tied to a fucking chair. No.”

“Buffy,” William spoke up softly, “I don’t want to hurt you.”

“You won’t and neither will Spike, I won’t let him. Please, don’t take her side, William,” Buffy pleaded and then she addressed Elizabeth again. “I’ll sleep with a stake between us, I’ll bathe in Holy Water, and I’ll wear my stupid cross across around my neck.”

“That isn’t necessary--.”

Buffy opened her mouth to argue more but William spoke, cutting her off. “Can you give us a minute alone, Elizabeth,” he asked, smiling politely.

“Yes, of course.” She stood and shook her head as Buffy glared at her. “Think about it Buffy.”

“I don’t think I’m going to handle this very well,” Buffy confessed when they where alone.

“I don’t mind the chair…”

“I’m not talking about the chair. It’s really sinking in now, you’re going to leave me.” Buffy blinked, tears threatening to fall from her eyes. “This isn’t fair,” she whispered, suddenly surrounded by William’s arms. “Why can’t I stay happy? Why can’t you stay?”

“I’ll be back, Buffy. I’ll make my way back to you, I swear it.”

“You shouldn’t make a promise that you can’t keep. There’s no way of knowing what will happen. Spike still wanted to kill me if he remembered, he would’ve…remembered,” Buffy choked out a sob.

“I’m a good actor, love, you said so,” William said, desperate to comfort her.

“I just love you so much. So, so very much, I’ve never felt this way before,” Buffy laughed as warm tears slid down her face, “That’s usually your line, isn’t it?”

“I’ll never find another like you. I won’t even look. You were meant to be my one and only, I know it Buffy.”

Buffy pulled back and cooed as she wiped his wet cheeks dry. “I didn’t want to make you cry.”

“It’s alright,” he said, breathing out of his mouth. “I couldn’t help it.”

“I’ll miss you,” Buffy said, even though she didn’t need to. Whining, she clung to him, tears still falling from her eyes. After minutes of listening to them both sniffle she said, “We’re go going to need to buy more tissues. Many, many more tissues.”
***

“It’s only a movie, William, don’t be scared.” Buffy patted his leg as he closed his eyes at the most exciting part of the film. “It’s all make-believe.”

“I know, I was resting my eyes. They’re still stinging.”

“That’s a good excuse.”

“Thank you.”

“But I know better, nothing will happen to the dog.”

“Really? You’re sure?”

“I promise.”

“Ok, I’ll trust you.”

Buffy laughed and continued to watch. “I hate animal movies, they’re always so sad.”

“B-but you just said…”

“Nothing will happen to him but the ending is still sad.”

“Oh,” William said, trying to relax.

“I think you’ll like the next movie more. It’s a love story. I think there’s even a nude scene.”

“A what?”

“A naked girl. It’s no different from the girls that have been parading down by the beach…in fact, remember that girl I saw you checking out?”

“I wasn’t checking anyone,” William denied instantly but not sure what she meant.

“You were looking at her. I saw you.”

“No, no, I wasn’t.”

“You’re blushing, baby,” Buffy teased. “I understand if you’re interested because you’re a guy no matter what century you came from. Looking is fine but it’s drooling and crap like that that makes me want to hit you. I don’t want to hit you, William. Besides, that girl and the one we’ll see in the movie, their,” she pointed to her breasts, “they’re fake, honey.”

“I don’t want you to hit me either—fake?”

“Plastic.”

“Plastic—what? No, that’s impossible.”

“I tell you that you’re going to become a bloodsucking fiend and you blink a few times, but I tell you that someone can have fake boobies and you say it’s impossible,” Buffy laughed. “People can go to the doctor and get body parts enhanced and changed…things can get bigger and smaller.”

William frowned, trying to understand what Buffy was saying. “Is everyone made of plastic? Are you?”

“No! No!” Buffy poked and jabbed him in the stomach. “Do I look plastic to you, William? Do I feel plastic?”

“Buffy—sorry,” William said, laughing and trying to bat her hands away.

“William, what are you doing?”

“Shielding my eyes,” William said, peeking through his fingers and slowly bringing down his hands. “My mother tells me always to protect my eyes. They’re very important.”

“You really thought that I’d hit you? When I poked you, did it hurt?” Buffy worried that she’d caused him pain. “I was just playing, sometimes I play too rough.” She pulled up his shirt and ran her fingers over his stomach. “No bruises, I’m so sorry.”

“That tickles,” he said, smiling.

“William, tell me. Did I hurt you? What should I do to make it up to you? I know, I’ll kiss you and make it better.”

William closed his eyes but gasped in surprise as Buffy kissed his abdomen instead of his lips, “You didn’t really hurt me.”

“I’m so sorry,” she said, brushing her lips against his skin. “I’m not plastic, ok? I’m one hundred percent pure Buffy. Only really rich people can buy new boobs and get tummy tucks anyway,” she explained between kisses. “I don’t think I’d do anything if I had the money. I like me.”

“I like you.”

Buffy sat up, smiling at him, “Even my unfake boobies?”

“Especially those,” William reached out to cup her breast.

“Mmmm.” She put her hand on his and smirked as she moved his thumb so it stroked her nipple. “You’re going to miss the movie if you don’t stop me. You won’t know how it ends.”

“You already said it will be sad, I’d rather focus my attention to more happy matters.”

“Yeah, like what?”

“You love to tease me,” William said.

“Yup,” Buffy grinned. “I love kissing you more.” She licked her lips and giggled as William groaned. “You’re too cute, honey.” She held the back of his head, keeping him still as she kissed him, her tongue exploring his mouth.
***
 

Chapter 11

“I’m totally hating you right now.”

“I’m sorry,” Elizabeth said truthfully, handing Buffy the rope.

“Tell me if it’s too tight, William.”

He nodded, looking uncomfortable as Buffy tied him to the chair. “You won’t leave me like this, right?”

“No way,” Buffy said warmly, running the back of her hand over his cheek. She whimpered when he nuzzled it. “I hate this.”

“We’ll untie you first thing in the morning and during the night, Buffy and I will only be a shout away.”

“I’m sleeping in here,” Buffy announced, challenging Elizabeth. “You can’t stop me.”

“I won’t, as long as you keep him restrained.” Elizabeth walked around the chair and inspected the ropes. “You’re positive that Spike will be unable to break free?”

“He can try but he’s not getting anywhere. If that vampire comes back before Saturday…” Buffy shook her head, “I’m so going to kick his ass.”

“Would you care for a blanket William?”

“Of course he’ll need a blanket, you want him to freeze too?”

Elizabeth and William both looked at Buffy in shock after her outburst.

“Alright, I gather I should leave you both alone now.” Smiling sadly, she went into her room.

“You weren’t very kind to her.”

“Yeah, well, you know how I feel about this.” Buffy draped a blanket over William’s shoulders. “I think it’s stupid and unfair.”

“She means well and I’m willing to do anything that will unsure your safety, Buffy.”

“We still have days. I was promised an entire month. I hope you don’t think I’m being a baby about this but I don’t think that you need to be tied up every night. I want you in our bed.” Buffy sighed, giving him a kiss on the top of his head. “Fine, fine, don’t look at me like that, I’ll apologize tomorrow.”

“Thank you,” William said, grinning. “Try to sleep, love…for me?”

“You did that on purpose, just to make my heart feel all melty.” Buffy laughed, kissing him on the lips. “You know I’ll do anything for you,” she whispered.
***

“This isn’t working,” Buffy grumbled, tossing and turning on the couch. “I tried but I miss you. It’s driving me crazy, I see you but I can’t be with you.”

“Buffy,” William sighed.

“I don’t see you sleeping. That chair can’t be comfortable.” She stubbornly crossed her arms over her chest.

“I’ll manage…sooner or later…”

“Sooner or later, my ass. It’s too bad we can’t tie you to our bed, now that would be fun.”

“I…eh…” William squirmed as Buffy looked at him hungrily.

“You don’t have to say anything.” She sighed out of frustration. “I just wish that I could hold you. I really do miss you.”

“I would love to be in your arms as well,” William whispered back.

“Hell, we can do this!”

“Do what?” William watched as Buffy came towards him with her hands full of bedding.

“You’ll see.” She settled in his lap and pressed against him. “I hope your legs don’t fall off.” Wrapping them in blankets, she snuggled into him. “Wake me if I get too heavy but I need this, William.” Humming, she held him tightly. “We both do.”

William closed his eyes, thankful for their contact. “I was feeling lonely.”

“I don’t want you to ever feel like that while you’re here with me, William.” Petting his face, she tilted her chin and allowed their lips to meet.

William rested his forehead against hers when their sweet kiss came to a close. “I wish I could touch you—feel your skin under my fingertips…”

“Oh, William,” Buffy whimpered, her hands sliding under his t-shirt. “I’ll just have to touch you more, huh?”

“Just keep in mind that I’m bound….”

“I won’t let you get too excited, I promise.” Laughing softly, she continued to kiss and nuzzle his neck and face. “We should sleep anyway, it’s late. I spent all that time whining. But are you sure you’re comfortable?”

“Yes, yes, don’t go.”

“I don’t think I could if I wanted to; just promise me that you’ll be here in the morning.”

“I’ll be here.” William sealed his promise by kissing her.

“I’m looking forward to tomorrow…”
***

“Buffy,” Elizabeth said, shaking her gently.

“Shoo, I’m sleeping,” Buffy whined.

“William is untied now.”

“Mmmm…good.” She sighed as his arms surrounded her. “Thank you and…about last night, I’m sorry.” Buffy smiled, her eyes still closed, as William pressed his lips against her brow, giving his approval. “I was mean and I…I’m sorry.”

“Oh, no harm done, I understand but it seems like you managed very well.”

“Yeah and see? No Spike here,” Buffy smirked.

“I’m happy to hear that, I wasn’t ready for him to go so soon either.”

“I hope you don’t mind, but I was thinking I could have William all to myself today.”

“You’re speaking as if I’m not even here,” William whispered so only Buffy could hear. “That’s not very polite, love.”

“Well, I was about to inform you that I’ll be going out...”

“Now?”

“Yes, I want to visit a few museums and I’d like to go shopping.”

“Oh, have fun.”

“You too.”

“You know we will.”
***

“I’ve been waiting all freakin’ month for Elizabeth to leave us in the morning.” Buffy smiled, excited by the thought. “You wanna sit or stand?”

“When and for what?” William followed as Buffy drug him into the bathroom, not sure of what she had in mind. “Buffy…maybe you need your privacy…” Buffy giggled and continued to undress. William made a strange noise when he stood face to face with a naked Buffy.

“Take off your clothes please,” she said, innocently batting her eyes at him.

“Why?” He gasped and held her hands as they went towards the strings of his pajama pants.

“Because,” smirking, she put his hands on her back, “you can’t take a shower with me in those clothes.” William hissed as his pants fell around his ankles. “Are you going to take off your shirt or do I have to?” Grinding against him, she giggled again when his eyes bugged out. “Yesh, you’ve seen me like this before.”

“Yes, but…”

“Would you rather take a bath? The water may get cold but…” Buffy got his shirt off and he groaned as she crushed against his erection, applying more pressure than before. “It’s up to you.”

“Standing—I’d rather stand.”

“Ok, stay here and I’ll get the water ready.” Seconds later, she stepped into the shower and peeked out of the curtain. “William?”

“You’re sure?”

“What do you think?” She offered him her hand. “But we have to be good because we don’t have any condoms.”

“That would be awkward,” William muttered, joining her behind the curtain.

“No, it’d be fun but dangerous and slippery.”

“But standing?”

“Yes, standing.”

“How?”

“William, I could paint you a picture,” she teased, nudging him under the water. “You’d hold me up and you could use the wall as support.” Buffy wasn’t sure if it was the words or the hot water that was making William’s face red. “Need more description?”

“No,” he said, clearing his throat.

“Maybe we could practice in the bedroom and move up to the shower because if you swooned, we’d both be goners.”

“Practice…”

“You’re gonna smell like me,” Buffy said, changing the subject. “You mind smelling like flowers?” William nodded and moaned as Buffy lightly scratched his head, shampooing his hair. “See? Nice. And you looked so afraid to shower with me. Let’s rinse.”

“What’s that?”

“A sponge of the future. You know, if you had your eyes open, you could see, baby.” William jumped as she started to wash him using her pouf. “Hey there.”

“Hello,” he croaked. Buffy was kneeling, smiling up at him and washing below his waist as he slowly opened his eyes. “I—the first few days here I got soap in my eyes and it stung and,” William took a deep breath as Buffy handled his cock lightly, “it, um, stung. I went temporarily blind, Buffy.”

“But when I’m down here, your eyes are safe. Oh, I think I missed a spot. Hold this.” She gave the pouf to William and went towards his swollen erection with both of her hands.

“You said we were going to behave,” William whimpered. His eyes rolled back and when he recovered, he saw Buffy give his weeping head a quick lick. “Oh, oh, now Buffy…”

“Sorry, I know I should’ve given you a little heads up but I didn’t want to chicken out.” She continued to stroke him with her fingers as she licked her lips. “Not bad,” she muttered.

“Buffy,” he gasped.

“Remember, in through the nose and out the mouth. Don’t swoon on me already, I was just curious but…did it feel okay? Scoot back and lean against the wall.” She nudged him and when he seemed to breathe more steadily, she pounced, licking him again as if he were an ice cream cone.

“Good Lord.”

“Put your hands in my hair, I need a little guidance here, baby.” Buffy soon found a lazy rhythm after sliding him into her mouth. Taking her time, she brought him to orgasm.

“Buffy, Buffy,” he whined, reaching for her. He frowned once she got to her feet and avoided his arms. “What’s wrong?”

Buffy grunted and pointed at her full mouth. Looking away, she held up her hand and swallowed. “Not bad,” she whispered.

“I may be misunderstanding but did you just…”

Buffy nodded, blushing. “All gone.”

“Are you upset? Isn’t that…disgusting?”

“I’m okay but I think you pulled out some of my hair.” Buffy put her hands on her head. “Am I bald?”

“No, I’m sorry, I—it felt so good that I must’ve—I’m so sorry.”

“William?”

“Yes, Buffy?”

“I’m teasing. Lightening the mood.” She smiled, biting her lip. “I liked it.”

“Really,” he asked softly.

“Yeah.” Buffy continued to blush as she went into his arms. “I like anything that makes you know how much I love and want you. It wasn’t dirty or nasty, not to me anyway...not anymore.”

“You thought it was at one point?” William sighed as Buffy buried her head in his chest.

“Yeah.”

“You don’t have to do that. I know how you feel.”

“I liked it, it made me kinda proud…it’s hard to explain.”

“I think I understand.”

“Did you like it? Honestly?”

“Couldn’t you tell?”

“Uh, yeah.” Buffy laughed softly. She felt her throat tighten. “We’re wasting water. You wanna wash me now?”

“Do want me to—uh—to you?”

“No, not in here and not unless you really want to. God, look at us and our blushing faces, how embarrassing, huh?”

“I like that you blush, it makes me feel like less of a novice.”

“Well, I think I’m going to send you home being novice-free.” William pulled her chin up for a kiss and Buffy clung to him. “You’re already the best kisser ever. Besides, we’ve been learning together all along.”

“You flatter me,” William said, a smile tugging at his lips.

“I speak the truth. Kiss me again, it makes me all tingly.”

“And tingly is good?”

“The best.” Buffy moaned into his mouth as he kissed her slowly. Now he’s showing off, she thought, delighted.
***

“May I?”

“Sure.” Buffy handed him the brush and she closed her eyes as he combed her hair.

“Your hair dries very quickly and it’s always so soft.”

“Mmmm, you hungry?”

“Always, love.”

“Can you tie it back for me?”

“When my mother is sick, I help her with her hair. Someone found out and people teased me about it…”

“Well, they were stupid people. Tell me their names and I’ll beat up their grandchildren.”

“I appreciate it but violence is not always the answer to everything, love. I hate violence.”

“Oooh, it’s not nice to tease me.”

“I find it amusing that you want to beat everyone up. You’re so small but I know you’re very strong. Stronger than any man I’ve ever met. You’re like an oxymoron--.”

“Hey! Don’t call me a moron!”

“Buffy, you’re a contradiction.”

“That doesn’t sound like a good word either.” Once William was done with her hair, she turned and wrinkled her nose at him. “You usually say I’m nice things.”

“You’re delicate but tough. You’re tender and passionate but you slay evil.”

“Oh.”

“Like now, you can be demanding and forceful but have a blush on your lovely face.”

“I’m not forceful.” Buffy batted her eyes, crawling to him. “Just a tad bossy, but only sometimes.”

“I’d hate to be on your bad side.”

“You could never be on my bad side.” She sat in his lap and pushed him back so she could sprawl out over his body. “Kiss me.”

“Forceful. See, what did I tell you?” Chuckling, William responded enthusiastically to her passionate kiss.

“Tell me you love me.”

“I love you, Buffy and with all my heart.”

“Swoon,” Buffy whispered. “Tell me you want me.”

“I want you,” William whispered back, looking into her eyes. “Probably more than I should.”

“What that’s supposed to mean? I want you all the time and there’s no ‘limits’, William, there’s no ‘proper’. That’s the thing I like most about love. We can make and break the rules as we go along.”

“Can I make a rule now, Buffy?”

“Sure.”

“No more touching or kissing until after we eat.”

“That’s a dumb rule,” Buffy teased. “Who needs eating when we’ve got kissing and touching? Food be damned.”

“I’ll make love to you afterward,” William whispered and Buffy’s heart skipped a beat.

“Okay, let’s eat.”
***

“But I’m still chewing,” William said, even though he stood and lifted Buffy off her feet.

“Ew, close your mouth. Hurry and swallow, I want to see if you taste like chocolate.”

“Those cookies were good--.” William was cut off as Buffy kissed him deeply, looking for answers. He walked carefully, trying not to hit anything as they made their way into the bedroom.

“Yummy.”

“Chocolate?”

“Yup.”

“I’m happy to please you, Buffy.” William closed the door with his foot.

“Lock it.”

“Can you? I don’t want to drop you, love.” After she reached for the door, he placed her gently on the bed.

“Wait.” Taking his shirt in her hands, she pulled him down for another mind numbing kiss.

“The bed,” he gasped, trying to breathe.

“Yeah, I’ll help.” Buffy got to her feet and they pulled down the sheets together. Seconds later, they were buried under the covers, with articles of clothing quickly being tossed to the floor. “We didn’t stay dressed for very long.”

“Are you complaining?”

“No way.” Buffy pulled off his shirt as he laughed.

“Can you help?” William struggled with her bra. “These things are tricky contraptions.” He watched in awe as Buffy popped it off effortlessly. “You’re amazing.” His words where muffled as he licked and caressed her nipples. Buffy hissed, running her fingers through his hair.

“Pants…” Her hands worked quickly, pulling his tight jeans off his hips. She cupped his bottom as he rubbed against her. “God, I could burst right now.”

“I know.”

“How about this, we time out and take off our pants real quick?”

“Sounds good.” The blankets were pushed away and the final pieces of clothing were discarded.

Laughing, as they dove back under the covers, soon Buffy found herself pinned underneath William’s body. “Condom.”

“Yes.” Nodding, he reached into the drawer and handed the wrapper to Buffy.

“Ok, baby, whenever you’re ready.” Buffy spread her legs wide and her eyes dazzled as she waited for him to fill her. They whimpered in unison and in relief as he sunk into her. “This is my favorite part,” Buffy purred, slightly wiggling her hips.

“Mine as well.” Keeping still and savoring the moment, he kissed her nose. Buffy laughed, returning the gesture, she gave his nose two kisses as she hugged his waist with her legs. “Buffy…”

“Move…oh, please.” Buffy thrust her hips, causing them both to moan. “This week, I want you to make love to me as much as possible.”

“Yes, Buffy.”

“Whenever, wherever, I don’t care, I just want to feel this way over and over again.” Buffy groaned as William almost pulled out of her and then he came back, pushing into her deeply. “Do that again,” she begged.

“You like that?”

She nodded, biting her lip as he continued to slide in and out. “Oh, my, God.” Closing her eyes, she yanked his head to hers, desperate to kiss him as he tenderly stroked her. I could die, she thought, seeing stars. “I love you so much,” Buffy panted as she tried to prolong the pleasure of traveling to her climax.

“Buffy…I…” With a few swipes from his thumb to her clit, Buffy came, moaning beneath him. A few thrusts later, William collapsed, spent. “Love you, too,” he said, breaking the sound of only their heavy breathing.
***

“Buffy? William?”

“Yes, Elizabeth?”

“Am I interrupting?”

“No,” William said softly. “Buffy’s sleeping.”

“Oh, I won’t say much…I bought something for you today. A new chair, it should be more suitable for you and Buffy to share at night.”

“You didn’t have to…”

“I wanted to,” Elizabeth said through the door. “I always wanted eh, chair from Brazil.”

“Is that so?” William laughed softly. “Thank you, I appreciate it and I’m sure Buffy will too.”

“I hope so, I picked up dinner and it’s in the refrigerator. I’ll be in living room if you need me…unless, eh, I should lock myself in my room?”

“No, no.”

“Alright.”
***

“Buffy.”

“Sleeping…come back soon…” Buffy heard him laugh and seconds later her blankets were pulled away. “Hey,” she whined. Her pout deepened once she felt William get out of bed. “Stupid boy.”

“Stupid,” he repeated, amused.

Buffy rolled on her stomach, deciding to ignore the cold. “Yeah, who said you could get up?” She froze, listening and guessing that he was to her left. “What are you doing?” William jumped as she opened her eyes, staring at him.

“I was…I…”

“Going through my suitcase.”

“Yes.”

“Need something?”

“I was going to find you a new outfit and then all these spilled on the floor.”

Buffy dressed in her robe and sat across from him. “That’s Holy Water and that’s a dagger and--.”

“This is a weapon as well?” William picked up the cross that Buffy had thrown in her bag.

“Sometimes…vampires…” She took the necklace and squeezed it in her hand. “Me not wearing this…it’s like the end of an era.”

“Oh so?”

“Story time,” Buffy said softly.

“I won’t pressure you.”

“No…my boyfriend—my ex—gave me this.” She played with the chain, threading it through her fingers. “I won’t tell you who because,” she sighed, “Spike stuff, I just have a feeling that something not-so-good could happen... Anyway, I used to wear this all the time and when I got here, I tossed it. It was sorta symbolic, no necklace, no icky boyfriend.”

“Did he hurt you?”

Buffy nodded, “He didn’t mean to but…yeah.”

“I’d threaten to hurt him but it would be ridiculous I’m afraid. I try to defend myself at home and I only accomplish looking like a fool but if I could, I’d give him a piece of my mind.” William cupped Buffy’s face.

“Would you shake your fist too?” Buffy asked quietly, smiling as he kissed her forehead.

“Of course and I’d glare.”

“And call me your female companion?”

“Buffy…” he blushed, “my mind was blank and I couldn’t think of a better word and I…”

“Shhh.” Buffy put her fingers to his mouth to silence him. “You know what to do now, right?”

“Yes, Buffy.” Nodding, he pulled her against him and kissed her.

“So that’s all you wanted to do? Dress me? I thought you were up to something naughty, taking my covers like you did. You could’ve taken advantage of me. I would’ve let you, you know?” Winking, she smoothed down his hair.

“Elizabeth bought us a new chair and I was looking forward to seeing it.”

“She did?”

“I told her it wasn’t necessary but she bought it. I wanted to thank her.”

“Ok, you go and I’ll get dressed.”

“You sure?”

Nodding, she kissed him again. “I’ll be out in five minutes.”
***

Buffy stepped out of the room and grinned, seeing William in his new chair. “Is it comfy, honey?” She came up behind him and kissed the top of his head.

“Oh yes, the back is high so my neck won’t hurt and the seat is wide enough for two.”

“Dang, it’s huge.” Buffy laughed and sat next to him. “Nice, like it was made for snuggling.” She nuzzled his cheek until Elizabeth cleared her throat.

“I could go in the other room…” Elizabeth offered.

“No, do you have food?”

“I was warming it for William. If he’s feeling friendly, maybe he’ll share.”

“He doesn’t have a choice.” Buffy playfully nudged him in the stomach, taking from his plate. “What else did you buy? Show and Tell time.”

“Oh, just random odds and ends.” Elizabeth held up her bags and dug through them. “I got some things for my desk, little mementos, a picture frame…a silly board game…”

“Board game? Like Candy Land or something?” Buffy perked up, her mouth full. “Can we all play? What did you get?”

“Chutes and Ladders,” Elizabeth said, blushing. “I’ve collected versions of the game for years…have you ever heard of Snakes and Ladders? Moksha-Patamu?” William and Buffy both shook their heads no. “Right.”

“But I totally know Chutes and Ladders, when I was little it was one of my faves,” Buffy said, excited.

“Alright, we can play on the table. Buffy, you can explain the rules to William while I move things around a bit.”

“It’s really easy—gimme that,” smirking Buffy grabbed more of William’s food, “that’s really good.”

“I know, too bad I can barely have my share with you picking,” William teased.

“Oooh,” Buffy cooed, biting his ear playfully. “Elizabeth, you have more for dinner, right?”

“Yes.”

“See?” Buffy pressed her lips against his neck.

“B-buffy, you were teaching me about the game.” He squirmed, enjoying Buffy’s touches but feeling uncomfortable because Elizabeth was in the room.

“Yeah, well, we’ll get a game piece and all of us will try to reach the finish first. You’ll spin the dial thing and that’ll tell you how many spaces to move your little person. On the way there will be a few chutes and ladders. Get it?” She poked him until he blushed and moved her hands away.

“Buffy…please,” he whispered. “Later.”

“When you’re tied up again?” Buffy pouted and batted her eyes. “This is fun.”

“I can tell that you’re enjoying yourself.”

“And you aren’t?” She rolled her eyes, kissing his temple. “Just wait until we get at the table again…”

“Buffy…” William swallowed.

“You’re turning pink, baby. Just look at those ears.”

“Buffy? William? Everything’s ready!”
***

“Sorry, I had to get my slippers.” Buffy grinned at William before sitting across from him. She was happy to see that he was sitting next to Elizabeth.

“That’s alright. William picked out your game piece.”

“This one’s my favorite.” Buffy took the piece that had a girl with blonde hair and pigtails.

“You start Buffy, and we’ll go clock-wise.”

“Okay.” While spinning the dial, she slipped her foot out of her slipper and nestled it between William’s legs. She winked at him as she scooted up to move her character on the board. William coughed. “Your turn, William,” Buffy said sweetly.
***
 

Chapter 12

“You wanna play again,” Buffy asked cheerfully.

“No, I think four times is enough.” Elizabeth started to put the game away. “I can’t believe you won every time, Buffy.”

“I’m just lucky I guess.” Buffy kept her foot still, knowing that William was as hard as a rock. “You don’t have to do that, we’ll clean up, right William?”

“Yes,” he croaked.

“Are you feeling alright? You look sick, dear.”

“I-I’m fine, Elizabeth.” William smiled weakly.

“Ok, I guess I’ll turn in. Buffy, would you like me to help you tie up William?”

“No.”

“But you will do it, right?”

“Of course, we have a new chair to try out.”

“Ok,” Elizabeth frowned. “I will check later.”

“Check away.”
***

“Don’t move.”

“I don’t think that I can,” William gasped.

“I feel bad now. Don’t move,” Buffy said again before diving under the table.

“Buffy,” William whispered, “get out from under there.”

“Shhh,” she said softly, working on his zipper and pulling him out of his pants. “I’m sorry.” She gave his cock a kiss before caressing him with her hands.

“Buffy—I--.”

“Hold on, I’ll hurry.” Once William gripped the seat of the chair, she placed her hand on his as he came hard.

“Uh.”

“You ok?” Buffy giggled as he rested his forehead on the table.

“Barely.”

“Is there a napkin up there?” Her hand came up on the table and William kissed it, putting the napkin under her fingers. “Thank you.” She dabbed and wiped him clean.

“Are you coming out from under there?”

“Yeah.” She crawled out from underneath the table and William hugged her, hiding his face against her stomach. “I’m not ready to tie you up.”

“I want to sleep in our bed,” he said softly.

“I know.” She rubbed his back as she stood. “But the chair…the new one will be more comfortable, I know it.”

“You’re right.” Sighing, he looked up at her, “I’m not tired though. We slept a lot today.”

“We can watch TV and postpone the tying. Elizabeth said you only had to be bound when I’m vulnerable and I’m feeling good. Go get out of those jeans and meet me in the cuddly chair.”
***

They sat in darkness except for the glow of the TV. In the chair, Buffy rested her head on William’s shoulder and she paid no attention to the show that was on. “Are you watching this?”

“No.”

Buffy threaded their fingers together and stared in off in a daze. “I’ve been thinking…I don’t think you can go out anymore. I don’t want you to accidentally go poof.”

“Poof?”

“If Spike shows up…vampires, in direct sunlight, they turn into dust and kinda blow away. I don’t want that to happen, so, no more beach.”

“We went there enough,” William said, trying to sound optimistic. “Today was wonderful…staying inside was wonderful.”

“It was.” Buffy brushed her lips under his ear and he shivered. “I love you, William.”

He moved in the chair and they grinned at each other as they sat nose to nose. “We can go to the beach at night and sit under the stars.”

“We can bring an extra blanket and maybe your flashlight,” Buffy added just to see him blush. “We’ll make a date out of it. You free tomorrow?”

“I believe so.”

“Maybe we’ll leave a little early so we can see the sunset again. Just to be safe, you can wrap up in Spike’s jacket so you’ll be protected by the sun.” Buffy nuzzled the side of his face with her nose, pressing soft kisses against him. William eagerly joined in and their kisses grew deeper and more passionate. “I’ve also been thinking…”

“Yes?”

“Wait.” Buffy stalled not quite ready to be away from his lower lip. She sucked and played with it until she worried that she’d make it swollen. “I’ve been thinking that Elizabeth never gets up before five in the morning.”

“Are you sure, Buffy?”

“You know what I’m thinking?”

“I’m positive that your thoughts don’t involve me being bound.”

“True…”

“Elizabeth will probably be upset if we ignore her wishes…”

“True, again…but really, what can she do other than scold us?”

“What’s your idea, love?”

“We sleep here but wrapped in blankets. We keep the TV on and in the morning before Elizabeth comes out of her room, we break away quickly and claim that we got up early to watch cartoons.”

“And I’m never tied up?”

“If it makes you feel better, maybe we could loosely tie around your waist. I’ve been looking at the chair and sure it’s bigger for both of us, but I think it could hurt you because it’s so wide. Or, here’s another option, we just run into our room now and take tomorrow morning like a man. When she pounds on the door, we glare and you can give her a weak little, ‘sod off’.”

“What does that mean, sod off?”

“Don’t know, it’s a Spike thing. So, chair or bed? Comfy bed or comfy chair?”

“It’s very tempting…”

Buffy stood, offering him her hand. “You can say that I forced you,” she whispered. “Come on, we only have a few days left.” Buffy bit her bottom lip and tilted her head toward the bedroom. “Please?”

“You don’t have to beg.”

“I know.” She smiled as he got to his feet.

“I’d like to avoid Elizabeth having reason to scold us.”

“We’ll get up early.” Buffy walked backward, her eyes never leaving his face as she led him into their room.

William nodded, shutting and locking the door. “What about lights?”

“Candles.” Nodding, he started to collect all pale colored cylinders that Buffy insisted that they buy weeks ago.

“I’ll light them, don’t worry.” Buffy used the lighter, knowing that when William tried the first time he couldn’t get it to work. She hummed when he came behind her, kissing her neck. Laughing, she traveled around the room and William trailed after her.

“There are a lot of candles.”

“All done.” She spun, wrapping her arms around him and they soon fell on the bed with Buffy covering him with kisses.
***

Buffy wasn’t sure if she was awake or dreaming. She struggled to focus her sleepy eyes on the silhouette in front of her. “Did I sleep too long?” Reaching for him, she sighed as he kissed her. “Oh, wow.”

Chuckling, he traveled down her body, giving her wet openmouthed kisses. After he pulled her nightgown off with ease, he spread her legs and settled between them.

“Hey, hey,” she hissed as his lips brushed against her inner thighs. “Where are those kisses heading?” He mumbled words Buffy couldn’t make out against her skin. “Are you okay?”

He remained silent until he entered her and they both moaned, touching their foreheads together. “Buffy,” he said her name in a raw voice. “Buffy.”

“You teased me,” Buffy whispered. “I thought you were going to be daring there for a minute.”

“Just ask…I’ll do anything for you,” he mumbled as he continued to make tiny noises. His mouth and fingers were everywhere, trying to take in all of Buffy at once. “I love you Buffy.”

Her heart tightened at his desperate voice. “I love you too.” She laughed softly as he looked at her in awe. “You’re kinda out of it, huh?” When he gave her another smothering kiss, she petted his face and gasped when she noticed that his cheeks were wet. Without another word, she rolled them over and rocked against him. “Whatever it is, don’t worry about it, baby. I love you.”

He closed his eyes as Buffy explored his chest. Once she experimentally bit his nipple, he groaned and bucked his hips. Buffy giggled as he made a sound that was near a growl. “No, I want you slow. I like to make love slowly,” she said but then felt silly afterwards. “I guess you know that by now…but this…you kinda feel different, so, very, very good, William.”

“Buffy,” he paused as if he wanted to say more.

“Yes?” Buffy kissed him sweetly and hummed. “God, I love you.” On the verge of climax, their eyes locked as she rode him leisurely. “William?” Buffy noticed something about him was lacking but she couldn’t put a finger on it. “Oh,” she froze suddenly after resting her head on his chest, “oh, oh no.”

“Buffy,” his eyes grew wide. “Buffy, please…”

“No.” She covered her face with her hands and panicked, having no idea what she should do. Seconds later, she allowed him to roll them over but she pulled away when he tried to move her hands.

“I…I’m sorry.”

Words were caught in her throat and her chin trembled uncontrollably.

“I love you so bloody much, Buffy.”

She sniffled and warm tears fell from her eyes. As her body shook from sobs, she barely felt the kisses he dotted up and down her arms and on her fingertips. Buffy whined and closed her eyes tight when he held her hands at her sides.

“Let me…I’m here, love.”

“No.” She shook her head, her tears never stopping. “You’re not him. I should’ve known…you sound like him and feel like him…taste…but you’re not him.”

“I guess I’m not.” Even though she didn’t want to, Buffy whimpered when he pulled out of her and looked for his clothes. “I’ll let myself out.” He shot her a pained look before reaching for the doorknob. “I guess this is the end, Slayer. Hope you and Peaches can patch things up.”

“Spike…” She could barely talk above a choked whisper. “I…don’t leave.”

He crooked his brow and turned from the door.

“I’ve lost William,” she closed her eyes briefly and pulled the covers around her body, “please don’t leave me. They all leave me.” Trying not to hyperventilate, Buffy looked at her hands. She listened as he shuffled, taking off his coat and she didn’t move away as he sat on the bed.

“I shouldn’t have tried that earlier, but I’ve waited for so long and you where there and very naked and…”

“And you’re evil,” Buffy suggested quietly. She reluctantly scooted towards him. “It wasn’t so bad but if you try anything, I’ll kill you.”

“Alright, sounds fair,” Spike cleared his throat and nodded.

“Hold me.” She rested against his empty chest and blinked away the tears that refused to go away. “I’m going to cry some more.”

“I can do that.” He sighed and touched her hair.

“And if you aren’t here, if I fall asleep or something and you decide to spare me or some shit like that by leaving, I’ll kill you.”

“Right…I’m not leaving, love.”
***

“Buffy! William! I can’t believe you!”

“Elizabeth?”

Buffy opened her eyes and looked up, catching Spike with a little smile on his face. “She’s going to be so mad.”

“She’ll put me in a bloody test tube.”

“What?”

“You know her and her researching mumbo jumbo.”

“Yeah, you’re her vampire-god-superhero,” Buffy said, rolling her eyes.

“Buffy!” Elizabeth pounded on the door again.

“What?”

“You deliberately did the opposite of what I asked! I bought you a chair!”

“Yeah, well, leave me alone,” Buffy snapped.

“Buffy--.”

“Leave me alone!”

“That was a good one, pet,” Spike teased. “I think I’m deaf.”

“What are we going to do?” She sat up, pulling the sheet tightly around her. “If Elizabeth sees you, she’ll never let you out without giving her enough crap to write another stupid book.”

“I’ll shake her off.”

Buffy frowned, “And then as soon as she knows you’re back, I’m being shipped back to Sunnydale.”

“I could go back,” he suggested carefully. “Find my own way, travel at night.”

“To Sunnydale?”

“To you. If you’ll take me, that is.”

“I don’t love you.”

“I didn’t give you a reason to, did I?”

“You really love me?” He nodded and Buffy inhaled sharply. “What about Drusilla?”

“What about Angel?”

“I broke up with him.” She shifted, feeling uncomfortable.

“Well I was dumped by her.” He scratched his eyebrow with his little finger as he stared ahead. “Surprised that didn’t come sooner,” he muttered.

“You loved her too?”

“The heart’s capable of loving more than one person.”

“Oh…”

“But that doesn’t mean you didn’t take up all my thoughts, dreams and desires. Dru went mad every time I woke up moaning your name. Too bad you couldn’t have a Jane Doe kinda name; ‘Buffy’ definitely singles you out.” Spike laughed but quickly sobered. “What I felt and feel for you, there’s no use comparing it; you win every time against Dru. She’s nothing compared to you.”

“Hmmm and let’s think back. She’s the face of my bloody salvation, my black goddess…”

“You remember that?”

“Yeah and it makes me want to heave.” She crossed her arms over her chest, not noticing that it made her sheet hang open.

“Jealous, pet?”

“Of that ho? No way.”

Spike smirked but he changed the subject. “So, is it a plan?”

“I guess.”

“I’ll get to Sunnyhell as soon as I can. Gotta try for my second chance, yeah?”

“Like I care.” Buffy tried to sound snotty but her voice didn’t cooperate with her wishes. “When are you leaving?”

“As soon as you want me to.”

“It’s sunny outside.”

“Got my coat, it blocks the sun fairly well.”

“No.”

“Alright. Will I be hiding in here all day? Hate to mention it, pet, but I’m feeling fairly peckish, I feel like I haven’t eaten for months.”

Buffy wrinkled her nose, “Where am I going to find blood on the island?”

“Just give me a few minutes with the locals and--.”

“No! No eating people!”

“Why not? It’s what I do.”

“Not if you think you’re coming near me. If there’s even the tiniest chance that I’m loving you, you’re not eating people unless it’s blood from a hospital or pig farm, and that’s after you’ve paid for it too.”

“You want me to become like Peaches! I will not!”

“Then say tootles to your chance.”

“Bloody hell,” he muttered under his breath. “Fine. I’ll do it.”

“Really?”

“Don’t sound so surprised. I’ll do anything for love,” Spike paused to look her in the eye, “anything for you, Buffy.”

“Close your eyes,” Buffy said, her voice tight.

“Why?”

“Because I’m getting out of bed and I don’t want you to look at me.”

“But I’ve seen you…”

“Close your eyes.”

“Prude,” Spike teased, closing his eyes.
***

“Elizabeth, I know you’re mad but we had a good reason.”

“What?”

“William didn’t feel well last night. I think he caught a bug.”

“Oh?” Elizabeth’s head shot up. “Is he alright?”

“Stomach ache.” Buffy said, wondering if the Watcher would notice that she had been crying all night and that she could barely say William’s name. “I was wondering if you could get him some medicine or something.”

“Sure, sure.” Elizabeth sighed in relief, “And here I thought you both misbehaved because you’re ornery. I knew he looked ill last night…”

“Misbehave, us?” Buffy tried to smile but it was too hard. “Thank you, Elizabeth, I know—I know William appreciates it.” She left the room quickly before the woman could ask her any questions.
***

“Don’t ask.” Hours later Buffy gave Spike a Styrofoam cup.

Spike looked at the cup hungrily. “You’re just in time I was about to burst through the window. All those people parading by like--.”

“Happy Meals with legs,” Buffy suggested quietly, memories flooding her thoughts.

“Buffy…” He ignored the blood and tried to comfort her.

“No.”

“I don’t see why I’m so different. I remember everything, every moment of his life…every moment with you. I remember what was felt…I was there,” Spike said, looking hurt that she rejected him. “I may not have a heart beat, but I still feel…you taught me everything I know about love, sex--.”

“You’re a demon, a killer and my,” she struggled, “my William didn’t like such ugly business.”

“Sorry, forget that I said anything.” He looked away but Buffy saw that tears were in his eyes.

“You can leave early in the morning.” Buffy sat on the bed and watched him as he sipped the blood. “If you need money…”

“No, no…Buffy, where did you get this?” He stared at her and he shook the cup again. “Where?”

“I told you, I’m not telling. Hey!” She squirmed as he grabbed at her arms.

“Hell, Buffy! I would’ve starved!” He dropped her bandaged arm.

“I know, that’s why I--.”

“No, I would have rather starved.” Looking into her eyes, Spike growled at her. “You shouldn’t have done that.”

“Well I did,” she blushed, trying to get away from him, “and now I’m seeing how stupid it was.”

“Wait,” Spike caught her and pulled her back gently. “I take it back, alright? Thank you.”

“Too late, mister.” Buffy’s mouth scrunched up in a pout as she glared at him.

“Love, don’t look at me like that.” He smiled, holding her chin in his hand. “I don’t want you to hurt yourself for me but I’m touched by the gesture.”

“I’m the Slayer, Spike. I know what I can and can’t do.” Her heart sped up. “Don’t you look at me like that.”

“Like what?”

“Like…like you’re about to kiss me.”

“You know me well.” He leaned towards her and Buffy closed her eyes. When they kissed, Buffy started to cry. “Buffy…”

“Do I really know you?” Buffy asked the question that had been pounding in her head all day as she walked around the island, trying to sort her thoughts. “Do I?”

“You made me. The moment I saw you, you claimed me, Buffy. You know me.”

“I feel like I cheated on him,” Buffy confessed.

“I just want to love you, Buffy. Let me take over where he left off. I have William in me. Fuck, I even keep a notebook.”

“You still write poetry?” Buffy smiled for the first time since William’s departure.

“Yes but don’t tell anyone.”

“Still about me?”

“Every syllable.” He grinned at her and Buffy could’ve sworn that William was back in her arms. “It’s good stuff. I think I owe you a reading under the stars.”

“You do.” Buffy sniffled. “But Spike, really, before more happens, I want to love you too.”

“Do you think that’s possible?” He swallowed and looked as if he was afraid to be hopeful.

“I think I told you that before, didn’t I?” She laughed softly as he held her tight.

“I love you, Buffy.”

“I know you do,” she smiled warmly and ignored the tears in her eyes. “I’m happy that you do.”

“All I want is to see you happy, pet.” He flashed her a smile before kissing her again.
***

“How long do you think it’ll take?”

“Don’t know.”

“It takes me a day on the airplane.”

“Then it shouldn’t take me more than two or three,” Spike said with a nod.

“You want this stuff?” Buffy carefully placed William’s belongings on the bed were Spike was lying.

“You keep it, pet.”

“Take the journal.”

“No, he’d want you to have it and I do too.” He thumbed through it with a nostalgic look on his face. “This is yours, along with everything else.” Spike gave the stuffed groundhog a squeeze and rolled his eyes, looking at the collection of Happy Meal toys.

“Thank you,” she said, secretly relieved. “Elizabeth should be asleep by now.”

“You getting rid of me?”

“No,” Buffy said quietly, not responding well to his teasing question.

“Buffy.” He sat up and before Buffy knew what was happening, she was in his arms. “I’ll be coming back for you. In fact, you’re never getting rid of me. I promise to be the thorn in your lovely side forever.”

“Yay, my very own stalker.” Buffy’s voice wasn’t as sarcastic as she had hoped. She sighed and wiggled into him. “Maybe you should go now and then I won’t have to wait so long.”

“You’ll miss me?” Spike asked in a husky voice.

She nodded, not able to say the words.

“Can I get a kiss for luck?”

Nodding again, she whimpered as he kissed her.

“Wait for me…just a few days, I’ve waited…”

“I know,” Buffy kissed his cheek. “I know, Spike.”
***
 

Conclusion

“Tell me all about Brazil!” Willow smiled widely, playfully knocking into her boyfriend, Oz. “I want to know everything!”

Buffy tried to ignore her jealousy but seeing the happy couples that populated her high school, made Buffy feel terrible. Every hand that was held, every kiss that was sneaked in the hallway made her miss her boyfriend even more. She missed William and his little grins and how they could kiss in the sunlight for hours. Buffy also missed Spike, who hadn’t returned after six days, she missed his careful touches and hopeful glances as he tried to make his own place in her heart.

“Brazil was good.”

“That’s it? Tell me about the weather, the plants, and the people—oh, oh, the boys!”

Buffy tried to soak up some of her friend’s enthusiasm but it seemed too difficult. In the past month Buffy had fantasized about this moment, she thought over and over again how good it would feel to tell everyone about her whirlwind romance. She wanted to brag about William: how beautiful he was, how talented, how much he loved her but sitting across from Willow and Oz, she didn’t want to share her story with anyone.

“The weather was nice, the plants were green and the boys…I didn’t pay much attention to them,” she said flatly. “I had a really, really good time, Will. If I could go back and relive it, you’d never see me again.”

“Wow, that good?”

“That good.” Buffy tried to smile but it came out awkward. “So, is there any evil I should know about?”

“I don’t think so.”

“Giles wouldn’t let us patrol with Angel,” Oz said. “There’s definite bad vibes between them.”

“The baddest,” Buffy agreed quietly. “Guys, I think I’m going to see Giles and get a recap.” She gathered the remains of her lunch.

“Are you Bronzing with us tonight, Buffy?” Willow asked cheerfully. “Everyone will be there and Oz is opening for a new band.”

“I…I doubt it.”

“Buffy, you’ve been such the loner-girl lately.” Willow pouted. “Come on and join the party.”

“Will…”

She jumped to her feet and pulled Buffy aside. “If you come tonight, we’ll be able to talk. You can tell me all about the boy you’re missing.”

“Boy? There’s no boy,” Buffy lied weakly.

“Yeah right. I heard you growl when Xander kissed Cordy yesterday. You’re totally missing someone. It’ll be fun and I’ve missed you, Buffy, we need to catch up.”

Looking at Willow’s pleading eyes, Buffy sighed, “Alright but I’m not saying for long.”
***

“His name was William.” Buffy sighed and closed her eyes briefly. “He was a poet and the sweetest guy ever.”

“A poet,” Willow gushed as they sat at the Bronze. “What’d he look like?”

Buffy bit her lip and tried not to say that he looked just like Spike. “He had blonde hair that was very soft and blue eyes…he was very handsome.”

“How’d you meet?”

“He was upset and I managed to calm him down. We became friends that quickly became more than friends. We talked and walked on the beach…I loved him so much Willow.”

“Wow, so have you called him since you’ve got back?”

Buffy swallowed at Willow’s innocent question. “No, I can’t call him.”

“Why not?”

She opened her mouth to respond but something caught her attention and Buffy turned in her chair. She ignored Willow as she scanned the crowd of dancing teenagers and college students.

“Buffy?”

“Wait.” Buffy stared intensely and she stood when she saw a glimpse of bleached hair. “I’ll be back.”

Buffy’s heart pounded as she pushed through the crowd. This is crazy, she thought before she set her eyes on the blonde man who was dressed all in black. “About time,” she whispered. She gasped as he faced her, a smirk lighting up his features. Buffy struggled not to run to him.

“And they say dreams never come true.”

“You’re three days late,” Buffy snapped, punching him in the stomach.

Spike doubled over in pain and hissed, “Missed you too, pet.”

“Oh stop, it didn’t hurt,” Buffy said but after he carried on, whining and wheezing for minutes after the blow, Buffy’s concern grew. “Spike stop, it didn’t hurt.” Her eyes grew wide and she nudged him until he stood up straight. “You’re a big baby.” To quiet her fear that she’d actually hurt him; she raised his shirt and touched his stomach. “Did I really hurt you,” she whispered, her heart fell. “I didn’t mean to.”

“Ah, love,” he chuckled, taking her into his arms. “It takes more than a punch to take me down.”

“You were playing with me?” Buffy asked, trying to be upset as he nuzzled her face and hid in her hair.

“I came as soon as I could. Got in town first thing this morning.”

“What took so long?” She whined as he occasionally brushed his lips against her cheeks, forehead and chin.

“Had things to settle with Dru, had to make things set in stone.”

“Oh.”

“I would’ve called but your number’s unlisted,” he said with a grin. “But I’m here now.”

“You are,” she nodded.

“I missed you.” He whispered into her neck. “All I want to do is kiss you but I’m terrified that you may stake me.”

“I won’t.” Buffy promised, still in shock that he was with her.

“Do you want me to kiss you?” Spike chuckled as she nodded, looking embarrassed.

Buffy closed her eyes as he carefully explored her mouth. Her heart fluttered as he moaned how much he loved her before lifting her off her feet. “Oh…Spike.” Out of habit, she wrapped her legs firmly around his waist as she kissed the top of his head. “I love when you do this.”

“That’s why I do it, Buffy.” He dodged through the people even with his nose buried deep in her chest.

“Where are we going?” Buffy giggled after they nearly collided into a wall.

“Don’t know, that ok?”

“That’s fine.” Buffy’s face shined bright with a smile and red blush as they stood out in the crowd. She caught Willow’s eye and waved before Spike carried her into the night.
***

A month later…

“So, you and Spike?”

“Me and Spike,” Buffy confirmed with a nod.

“Because you fell in love with him when he was human in Brazil?”

“Yup.”

Xander scratched his head and looked at his friends as they smiled. “I need more guy friends.”

“Isn’t it romantic, Xander?” Willow asked, touching his arm.

“You’re still with him even though he’s an evil bloodsucker?”

Buffy bit her lip, feeling a tingle in her chest. “I love Spike and I love William. When Spike’s alone with me…” she sighed dreamily, “I’m still with him and I plan on being with him for a very, very long time.” Buffy closed her eyes, not needing to see Xander’s disgusted face when Spike stepped out of shadows to wrap his arms around her.

“Ready to go, kitten?”

“Yeah.” She leaned her back against his chest and looked up to kiss him.

“I think I’m going to be sick,” Xander announced but he soon yelped after Willow kicked him under the table.

“Have fun guys,” Willow blushed as they continued to kiss and moan in front of them. “Um, Xander,” she said, minutes later, “maybe we should go…”

Xander nodded, eyes wide. “Holy crap, bet they could go at it for days.”

Buffy smiled, letting out another whimper.

“Get a room!”

“Who said that?” Spike pulled his mouth away. “Was it the whelp? I’ll kill him.”

“No, you won’t,” Buffy panted with her head in his chest.

“That’s a very rude thing to say.”

A smile tugged on her lips as she looked him in the eye. “You blushing, Spike?”

“Vampires don’t blush.”

Laughing, she hugged him. “God, I love you, Spike.”

“That so?” His eyes dazzled as he pressed his lips to her temple. “I love you, Buffy. Always have.”

“Maybe we should skip patrolling tonight.”

“You have better plans?”

“Oh yeah,” Buffy curled her finger and beckoned him even closer. “You can make love to me if you want to.”

“Really,” he croaked.

“Come on.” Happiness filled her as Spike gave her a goofy grin. “Let’s go home.”
***

The End.