1:

Buffy Summers strolled into the gym of Blessed Souls High School on the arm of her boyfriend Riley Finn, wearing a floor-length, strapless blue silk gown, her hair pulled back, allowing it to fall past her shoulders. Riley leaned down to gently kiss her temple, smiling at her.

“You look so beautiful,” he said. “Thank you for coming to Homecoming with me.” She giggled.

“Why wouldn’t I, silly?” she joked. “It’s what couples do, you know.” He laughed.

“Yeah, I know,” he replied. “But it’s still an honor to escort the prettiest girl in Sunnydale to a dance like this.” She leaned into his side as he wrapped an arm around her waist, looking around the gym and smirking.

“There’s Dawn and Andrew,” she said, pointing them out amongst the crowd of dancing bodies in front of the DJ. “I can’t believe she’s a freshman this year. I feel so old.”

“You should,” he said. “We’re finally seniors. Can you believe that?”

“No,” she answered. “But I’m so happy we’re the oldest now.” She noticed her friend Fred walking towards them, holding hands with her boyfriend Wesley. “Well, hello, you two. You look beautiful, Fred.”

“So do you,” the brunette replied, smiling. “Did you just get here?”

“We took our time,” Riley said, shrugging. “Had a nice dinner at that little Italian restaurant near your high school.” He looked around and frowned suddenly. “I didn’t think Spike Brooks and his gang would show up.”

“It’s our last year,” Wesley said. “And I’m his friend, too, don’t forget.”

“I don’t understand how a nice guy like you can stand a jerk like him,” Riley replied. “He makes my life a living hell.” Buffy studied the platinum blonde guy that Riley was currently scowling at.

“He doesn’t look so tough,” she said. “You could break him in half.” He smirked.

“I know,” he said. “He’s not a bully physically- he just flaunts his money and makes everyone feel bad about themselves.”

“Ah, I know the type,” Buffy said, motioning to the girl with Spike. “That’s Harmony, one of the richest bitches at school.” Riley raised an eyebrow when Buffy swore. “What? It’s true.”

“Yeah, Harmony and Cordelia are nightmares,” Fred agreed as she saw Cordelia Chase dancing with Liam Angelus. “But they rule the school- bookworms like us are at the bottom of the totem pole.”

“Nonsense,” Buffy said, smiling as she defiantly raised her chin up. “We’re better than those girls and always will be.” She pulled Riley to the dance-floor as a slow song started.

* * * * *

“These dances are going to be the bloody death of me,” Spike mumbled as he walked to the punch table near the doors. “Harmony just likes to show herself off and flirt with other guys to piss me off.”

“I don’t see why,” his friend Xander said. “You don’t get pissed off- you let her go on ahead so you can look at all of the other goodies and try to sample them.” Spike smirked and shrugged.

“Got to get my rocks off somehow,” he replied. “Harmony’s as talented as a blow-up doll.”

“Explains why she’s such an airhead,” Xander joked, grabbing two glasses of punch and handing one to Spike. “Speaking of sex toys, did you see the blonde that Finn brought with him?” Spike looked around the gym and spotted the tall brunette man, holding a beautiful blonde girl in his arms as they danced. “I think her name’s Betty or Bunny. According to Anya, they’re in love or something.” Spike scoffed.

“People don’t fall in love in high school,” he replied, drinking from his cup.

“Oh yes they do,” Anya said, appearing beside Xander and grabbing his hand. “Spin me around a bit and then take me to our hotel for lots of orgasms.” Spike chuckled as Xander shot his girlfriend a look and allowed her to lead him towards the other dancing couples.

“This spot taken?” Fred asked as she came to stand beside Spike, getting a glass of punch. He smiled at her.

“You look lovely, pet,” he said. “Too bad you’re already spoken for. Otherwise, I’d try seducing you, myself.” She blushed slightly and giggled. “Having fun with Wes?”

“Yeah,” she answered, looking across the gym at Wesley, who was talking to Buffy and Riley. “What about you and Harmony?”

“She’s convincing one of the second-string quarterbacks to let her be his wide receiver, if you get what I mean,” he said, smirking when she ducked her head, blushing profusely. “So, who’s the beauty with the beast?”

“You mean Riley and Buffy?” she asked, and he raised an eyebrow.

“Her name is Buffy?” he asked, and she nodded. “Please tell me that’s a nickname.”

“You’re one to talk, Spike,” she said, smiling. “Or should I call you William?” He frowned and crossed his arms. “Why are you asking about them?”

“How serious are they?” Spike asked, and Fred sighed, watching the couple.

“About as serious as two people in love can be,” she answered. “They’re perfect together.”

“No one can be happy with a guy like him,” he said. “He can’t offer her anything.”

“What? Like cars and money?” she asked. “That’s not what Buffy wants- she’s not that kind of girl. He gives her what she needs, and I have a feeling, Spike, he gives her more than you ever could.” He watched Fred return to her boyfriend, stunned that the sheepish young woman had said that.

“Well, we’ll just see about that, won’t we?” he asked quietly, turning on his heel and walking away.

* * * * *

Buffy, Riley, Wesley, Fred, Dawn, and Andrew were seated at a table about an hour later, deep in conversation, when Spike approached them, specifically targeting Buffy. Everyone looked at him as he stopped to stand beside her chair.

“Can we help you?” Wes asked, noticing the way Spike was appraising Buffy.

“Want to dance, princess?” he asked her, extending a hand. She looked at it and frowned.

“Flash your Rolex elsewhere,” she said, looking up at him. “Preferably somewhere not around here.” He strangely felt hurt by her comment before leaning down to her ear.

“You wish you could be with someone as good as me,” he said, his breath tickling her skin. “But you’ll never be worth my time, Buffy.”

“How do you know my name?” she asked, raising an eyebrow.

“Word travels fast around guys,” he said, smirking. “Let one between your dimpled knees, and the whole school will know the next day.” She stared at him as he walked away, grinning. “Take that, little girl.”

Meanwhile, Wes was holding Riley back, restraining the taller man from going after Spike and punching him.

“It’s not worth it,” Buffy said, giving Riley a small smile. “I deserved that after what I said.”

“He deserves to be castrated,” Riley muttered, sinking back into his chair defeatedly. “I can’t just let him talk about you that way, Buffy.” She kissed his cheek.

“It’s okay,” she said. “Let’s not allow him to ruin our night, okay? It’s our last Homecoming.” He nodded after a moment and pulled her into a hug. When they broke apart, she looked across the gym and saw Spike talking to Harmony.

‘He doesn’t know who he’s messing with,’ she thought.
 

2:

Spike and Xander walked into the local Doublemeat Palace about a week later after playing poker at Liam’s house. Spike was stunned to see Buffy working behind the counter, taking an order from an old woman. He quickly got in line behind the woman, and Xander raised an eyebrow, confused.

“What’s going on?” Xander asked, and Spike motioned to Buffy. “Come on, man- don’t be a jerk.”

“Why not? She was a bitch to me,” he replied. “And who wants to pass up a chance like this?” The woman in front of him stepped aside, and Spike stepped forward, grinning as Buffy looked at him and froze. “Well, hello, princess.”

“What’re you doing here?” she asked, angry. “Shouldn’t you be eating at a country club or something?”

“Hi, I’m Xander,” Spike’s friend said, shaking Buffy’s hand. “Can I have the Doublemeat Medley?”

“Sure,” she said, entering it into the cash register. “What would you like to drink?”

“Surprise me,” he replied, smiling, and she raised an eyebrow. “Sorry, I’ll have a Coke.”

“Fantastic,” she mumbled, going to fill up a cup with soda before turning to hand it to him. “That’ll be $4.80.” He took out his wallet, but Spike put his hand in front of Xander to stop him. “What?”

“You haven’t taken my order yet,” Spike said, smirking. “Now, let’s see, what do I want?”

“Spike,” Xander said in a warning tone. “It’s late.”

“It’s only ten, so settle down,” Spike said, looking at the combo list above Buffy before shrugging. “The whelp and I will take twenty Doublemeat Medleys and thirty orders of the Doublemeat Nuggets.” She crossed her arms, tilting her head. “What’s wrong? Can’t service me, luv?” He grinned. “I’ve heard you’re very talented at servicing guys.”

“I would never touch you,” she said, furious. “I think you guys should go.”

“Come on, pet,” Spike replied. “Can’t turn away paying customers, can you?”

“I can do whatever the hell I want to,” she shot back, and Spike chuckled.

“You think you’re so high and mighty, don’t you?” he asked, leaning on the counter. “But you’re not all that great, are you? Working at a place like this?” He frowned. “Must be a punishment or something for spending all Daddy’s money.”

“Think whatever you want,” she said. “I don’t have to justify myself to an asshole like you.” Xander looked at his friend, noticing that his jaw was clenched. “Xander, your order will be up in a minute.” She turned to walk away, but Spike reached across the counter and grabbed her arm, turning her around. “What?”

“Why would you work here?” he asked, looking around. “This place is horrible.”

“Not all of us have money to pay for school,” she replied. “Some of us have to work for what we want.”

“You’re working for college money?” Xander asked, and she shook her head.

“I’m still paying off my high school tuition,” she said, looking down. “My mom couldn’t afford to send me to Holy Angels, so I offered to work and pay for it on my own.” Xander looked at her admirably and was surprised to see Spike doing the same thing before he smirked.

“So, Buffy’s poor, is she?” he asked. “Can’t say I expected that. Now I can understand why only a loser like Finn would want you.” Xander flinched as Buffy grabbed his soda and threw it in Spike’s face, grinning when he sputtered, trying to quickly wipe off the Coke that was trickling down his face and upper body. “Bitch!”

“Let’s go, Spike,” Xander said, grabbing the blonde’s arm before he had the chance to do something stupid. “Have a good night, Buffy.” She watched him pull Spike outside and to a car, smiling as she saw Spike yell something at Xander and throw his arms up in anger. She breathed a sigh of relief as she saw their car drive off.

“I really hate guys like that,” a girl named Amy said, appearing beside Buffy. “They don’t understand why some people have to get jobs like this just to make ends meet.” Buffy nodded, cleaning off the counter. “It’s bad enough without having people come in here and tell us how pathetic we are.”

“We’re not pathetic,” Buffy said firmly. “We’re worth a lot more than they ever will be.”

* * * * *

“You’re incredible, do you know that?” Xander asked as he drove Spike home. “Do you realize how cruel you were?” Spike mumbled something. “What?”

“She deserved it,” he said. “I’m sick of girls pretending that they’re so amazing when in reality, they have nothing to offer.”

“You really think she’s that bad?” Xander asked. “I think she seemed pretty alright.”

“Yeah? Even when she threw your soda at me?” Spike asked, his voice raising a couple of levels.

“I just mean that I’d rather spend time with a girl who has a good head on her shoulders and who works hard for what she wants instead of a girl who’s lacking all things intellectual and wastes her dad’s money on shoes,” Xander explained. “Like Harmony.” Spike quickly looked at him.

“Are you telling me that you think I’d be better off with a girl like Buffy?” he asked, and Xander shrugged.

“At least you could hold a conversation with her,” he said. “Besides, you’ve said it yourself- Harmony’s a waste of time. She’s just a plaything for you.” Spike looked outside, frowning. “Don’t tell me you actually see yourself being with her ten years down the road.”

“I sure as hell don’t see myself with Buffy,” Spike muttered, and Xander smiled.

“Well, you never know,” he said. “She could end up being the woman of your dreams.”

“Are you drunk?” Spike asked, looking at Xander once again. “Or stoned?”

“I’m just saying that I think Buffy’s much better than Harmony,” he replied, stopping at a stoplight. “And I think you feel the same way.”

“Like hell,” Spike said sternly. “I could never be with a girl like her. Never.”

“Ah, yes, Spike’s getting defensive,” Xander said, grinning. “You’re in denial that you may have feelings for a vivacious blonde named Buffy.”

“Shut your gob,” Spike said loudly. “You have no idea what you’re talking about.”

“Fine, I don’t,” Xander said, raising his hands in surrender before driving again. “Besides, she’s got a boyfriend, anyway.”

“Riley Finn? He’s not even competition,” Spike replied, and Xander looked at him.

“So you plan on going for her, then? ‘Competition’?” he asked. Spike looked out the window and sighed.

“I’d rather see her with me than with him,” he admitted before clenching his fists. “But I don’t want her, Xander, and you’d do well to remember that.”

“Right, gotcha,” Xander said, smiling. “No more talk of how much you want to sleep with her.” Spike smacked his arm. “Hey! I’m driving, buddy!”

“Just keep quiet about Buffy, alright?” Spike asked. “The last thing I need is to hear Harmony bitch about me even talking to another girl.”

“Your wish is my command, captain,” Xander said, giving him a mock salute.

“Shut up, whelp,” Spike said, smiling.
 

3:

The following weekend, Buffy went to the bookstore in town to get a copy of The Joy Luck Club for her English class and was surprised to see a certain platinum blonde teen already walking around the store.

‘Great,’ she thought. ‘This will make my day complete.’ She proceeded to make her way to the Fiction section and scanned through book titles to try and locate the one she needed. She was crouching on the ground when she suddenly noticed a pair of motorcycle boot-clad feet beside her. ‘I hate my life.’

“Well, look who’s on her knees,” Spike said, grinning mischievously at her. “Feel like servicing me now?” She stood up and went to slap him across the face, but he grabbed her wrist tightly. “Just kidding around, luv. Calm down.” She pulled her wrist away from him and continued to look at the bookshelf in front of her. “So, what brings you here?”

“Need a book for class,” she mumbled, getting angry that she wasn’t finding the novel. “They have to have a copy.”

“Which book?” Spike asked, and she looked at him, raising an eyebrow.

“You almost sounded helpful, Spike,” she said. “I’m shocked.” He shot her a look. “The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan.” He smirked. “What?”

“That’s the same one I need,” he answered before turning towards a different shelf and looking around for a while. “Aha!” He leaned up to grab it from the highest shelf. “There’s only one left. Sorry, princess.” She clenched her fists, angry.

“Let me have it,” she said sharply. “At least I’ll actually use it.”

“What’s saying I won’t?” he asked, amused.

“This is just a guess, but you’re the type of guy who will bring it to class just to prove the teacher he owns it but will never open it,” she replied. “Why don’t you just buy the SparkNotes?”

“Because that wouldn’t be nearly as fun,” he said. “Besides, I have finder’s rights.”

“And you just want to screw me over as much as possible,” she mumbled.

‘No, I just want to screw you in general,’ Spike thought. ‘But you don’t need to know that yet, Goldilocks.’

“Fine, take it,” she said. “I’ll just drive around until I find it.” She turned to walk away, and he watched her for a moment before beginning to feel guilty. He caught up to her and handed her the book.

“It’s yours,” he said, surprised when she gave him a genuine smile. “I’ll just bum the notes off of someone in class.” He walked out of the building, not ever looking back. If he had, he would’ve seen the gracious expression on her face before she went to the register to buy the book.

* * * * *

On the way to his car, Spike saw Xander and Liam at the coffee shop and decided to go talk to them before he went home.

‘I need to talk to the whelp about something,’ he thought. ‘Something blonde, beautiful, and incredibly feisty.’

“Hey,” Liam said as his friend approached. “What’s up, Spike? I’m surprised you’re not still asleep.”

“Very funny, mate,” he muttered. “I had to go get a book for English class, but there was only one copy left, so I gave it to… someone.” Xander raised an eyebrow. “Buffy was there and needed the same book, so I-”

“Decided to be chivalrous and gave it to her?” Xander asked, surprised when Spike nodded. “Uh oh, Liam- I think our friend is falling for a new blonde.”

“Buffy Summers?” Liam asked. “She’s hot, isn’t she? I can’t understand why she’d be with a guy like Finn. I mean, after she slept with Parker Abrams, I thought she’d go for some of the more popular guys, but I guess not.”

“Oh yeah, I forgot she slept with Parker,” Xander said. “That was a couple of years ago, right?”

“Yeah,” Spike said, looking down. “The story goes that he thought it’d be funny to seduce her and pretend he loved her before breaking her heart and going off to college.” He sighed. “He’s a real prince.”

“And you wonder why she dislikes you,” Liam said. “You’re known for doing similar stuff to girls, minus the college part.” Spike took a deep breath as he looked away. “Guess you’ll have to prove to her that you’re not as bad as him.”

“What if I am?” Spike asked quietly. “As bad as Parker?”

“Not possible, man,” Xander replied. “No one’s as horrible as Parker.” Spike managed a weak smile and nodded.

* * * * *

Later on that afternoon, Buffy and Willow went shopping to try and find a birthday gift for Fred, aimlessly walking around the mall at one point after buying two presents.

“So, Spike just gave you the book?” Willow asked, and her friend nodded. “From what you’ve told me about him, that doesn’t sound like him whatsoever.”

“I know,” Buffy replied. “I expected him to buy it and rub it in my face that he had it and not me.”

“I wonder what that was all about,” Willow said, surprised. “It seems kind of weird that he wouldn’t have made some comment about it or what-not. He was almost being gentlemanly.”

“Gentlemanly and Spike aren’t two words I’d associate together,” Buffy said before smiling. “But yeah, I guess he was.”

Harmony and Cordelia walked out of a store and right into Buffy and Willow, all four girls dropping their bags.

“Watch where you’re going, geek,” Harmony said, glaring at Buffy.

“You’re the one who practically ran out of the store,” Buffy pointed out, angry. “What’s wrong- they turned you away because you max-ed out Daddy’s credit-card?

“At least I have a dad,” Harmony shot back, and Buffy tried her hardest to hold back the tears that were trying to form in her eyes. “Besides, you shouldn’t even be here, you loser. Since when do you have money?”

“Screw you,” Buffy said, turning on her heel and storming off, leaving Willow to run and catch up to her.

“Are you okay?” the redhead asked quietly, watching as tears began to stream down Buffy’s cheeks.

“I’m fine,” she said, trying to wipe off her face. “I can’t wait to graduate and get the hell away from here, Will.”

“Me, too,” her friend said, putting her hand on Buffy’s shoulder. “Things will get better once we’re away from Sunnydale.”

“Where we can make new lives for ourselves and get away from people like Harmony and Cordelia,” Buffy said, heading for the glass doors in the mall so she could leave and go to work.

“And Spike?” Willow asked, looking at Buffy.

“Yeah, him, too, I guess,” Buffy said, shrugging.
 

4:

A week later, Buffy, Willow, and Tara showed up at Fred’s house for her eighteenth birthday party. Fred greeted the girls with hugs and let them inside, leading them towards the small crowd of people filling up her living room. Buffy handed her the gift she brought.

“Happy birthday, Fred,” she said, smiling. “Can you believe you’re finally an adult?”

“Yeah, you can vote now,” Willow said excitedly, quickly looking down when everyone gave her a weird look. “Sorry, I think the government and politics are cool.” Fred smiled and looked at Buffy.

“It seems surreal,” Fred replied as she accepted the gifts Willow and Tara gave her. “Thank you so much!”

“Only the best for the birthday girl,” a voice said behind Buffy. She turned and was face-to-face with a smirking Spike. “Well, hello, pet. Fancy seeing you here.”

“What’re you doing here?” she asked quietly, and Willow looked at the guy, realizing he must be Spike.

“I’m Willow,” the redhead said, shaking his hand. “And this is Tara.” He shook the other girl’s hand, too.

“Nice to meet you both,” he replied. “I’m Spike.” He focused on Buffy once again. “How’ve you been?”

“Fine,” she said, frowning and turning to look at her friends before walking away. Spike raised an eyebrow, confused.

“She’s probably going to try to find Riley,” Willow said quietly, and Spike nodded.

“Yeah, guess so,” he replied. “So, Red, does she talk about me?” She saw the hopeful expression on his face and smiled.

“That’s for you to find out,” she said, linking her arm with Tara’s and going into the crowd of talking teenagers. Spike grinned and decided to go in the direction Buffy went.

* * * * *

She walked through the house and into the kitchen, going into the refrigerator to grab a soda. When she suddenly felt hands squeeze her hips, she shrieked and spun around, not surprised to see Spike there.

“I could’ve hit you,” she said, trying to get her breathing to calm down. “Why did you do that?”

“Wanted to say hi,” he replied, chuckling. “Especially after you so rudely left in the middle of our conversation before.”

“Didn’t want to talk,” she said, shrugging. “The last thing I need is for Riley to see you and I around each other.”

“Where is the great oaf?” he asked. “I haven’t seen him.”

“I just called him,” she said. “Apparently, he’s on his way.”

“Great,” he said. “Looks like we’ve got some time to ourselves, then.” She raised an eyebrow. “Want to blow out my candles?” She slapped him across the face instantly, not giving Spike a chance to stop her. “Oww! Bloody hell, woman! What’s your problem?”

“You are!” she said in a low tone, practically hissing. “What the hell do you want from me?”

“Well, I want you,” he admitted, and her eyes widened. “Don’t look so damn surprised- it should be pretty clear what I want.”

“And you think you’ll ever get a chance?” she asked, upset. “I would never try being with you, so stop wasting your time and go back to your bimbo girlfriend.”

“I don’t want Harmony,” he replied, and she scoffed.

“Well, looks like she’s the only thing you’re going to get,” she said. “Because you’re not going to have me, Spike, understand?”

“No, listen to me, luv,” he replied, but she turned and began walking away. He grabbed her arm and turned her around. “Don’t walk away from me!”

“Why are you here?” she asked, crossing her arms. “Honestly? Why did you come here tonight?”

“It’s Fred’s birthday,” he said, putting his hands in his pockets. “She’s Wesley’s girlfriend, and I like the bird. Got a problem with that?”

“I’ve got a problem with you breathing,” she replied, and he clenched his jaw, looking away. “You were really nice in the bookstore, Spike, and a part of me almost thought you’d continue to be like that, but you’re not.”

“I can be nice, Buffy, if you’ll give me a chance,” he said, almost pleadingly.

“No, you can’t,” she said, looking down. “You’ll continue to be Mr. Popularity who flirts shamelessly with girls just to get into their pants.” She looked at him again. “You’ll never change.” She turned and walked away before Spike could stop her. He groaned in frustration and opened up Fred’s refrigerator, finding a bottle of beer and opening it.

* * * * *

Towards the end of the night, Buffy was happy that she hadn’t seen Spike at all. She stayed in the living room, talking with her friends, hoping that he’d stay away.

‘And I’m shocked he did,’ she thought as she headed for the front door with Willow and Tara. After saying their good-byes to Fred, they headed outside towards Tara’s car and saw Spike fumbling with his keys, trying to unlock his car door. Buffy took a deep breath and walked over to him, hoping maybe to apologize for being so mean in the kitchen. When he looked at her with anger in his eyes, she took a small step back from him.

“Go away,” he growled, finally managing to open the door.

“I’m sorry for what I said before,” she said quietly, wrapping her arms around herself for warmth. “It was uncalled for.”

“I don’t sodding care,” he replied, getting inside his car. “You’re a bitch- I wasn’t surprised.” She frowned and noticed that his eyes looked a little glassy and unfocused.

“Are you alright?” she asked, becoming worried.

“Bloody dandy,” he answered, putting the key in the ignition and starting the car.

“Spike, you’re drunk,” she said, and he looked at her, raising an eyebrow.

“You just figured that out, Goldilocks?” he asked. “Guess you’re more stupid than I thought.” She leaned into his car and tried grabbing the keys, but he pushed her back, causing her to stumble a bit. Her eyes widened as he slammed the door and sped off. Willow and Tara instantly ran over to check on her.

“Are you okay?” Willow asked, concerned, and Buffy took a deep breath.

“I’m fine,” she said. “But I have a feeling he won’t be.”
 

5:

Spike woke up the following morning with a pounding headache and slowly opened his eyes, looking at his unfamiliar surroundings.

‘What the hell is going on?’ he thought, noticing the IV needle attached to him and the bed he was laying in. ‘Why am I in a hospital?’ His father, sitting on a chair nearby, woke up a moment later to see his son awake.

“Thank god,” he said, getting up to carefully hug his son. “We were so worried.”

“What’s going on?” Spike asked quietly, his throat feeling parched. His father handed him a small glass of water.

“You got in a car accident last night,” Dr. Brooks said. “Do you remember anything?”

“I remember leaving Fred’s party,” Spike answered before frowning. “And that’s about it.”

“You crashed about half a mile away, hitting a tree,” his father said sternly. “Your blood alcohol level was around .1, William.” Spike looked down quickly. “Did you really think you were sober enough to drive? And why were you drinking in the first place? How stupid could you be?”

“I screwed up, alright?” Spike asked, getting angry. “I know I did.”

“Your poor mother woke up to the phone ringing at one o’clock in the morning to find out that you had gotten in an accident and were sent to the hospital. She just went home about an hour ago to finally sleep.”

“I’m sorry,” Spike said sadly. “I thought I’d be okay to drive.”

“Well, you thought wrong,” Dr. Brooks said, crossing his arms. “Your car is totaled, but thankfully all you hit was a tree and not another car. You could’ve killed someone last night, if not yourself.” Spike looked out the window and noted that it was drizzling. “You scared the hell out of us, you know.”

“I’m sorry, Dad,” he said sincerely. “I really am.”

“I’m sure you are,” his father replied. “That’s why you’re going to get a job and pay off the damages you caused, along with buying your own car once you’ve earned enough money. You can borrow your mother’s until then.” Spike’s eyes widened as he looked at him. “You need to learn a lesson, William, and I think this is the best way.”

‘Bugger,’ Spike thought as he looked outside again.

* * * * *

Spike got ready for his job interview while he talked to Xander on the phone.

“So, Doublemeat Palace was the only place that called you back?” Xander asked, and Spike scowled as he looked in the mirror, trying to put on a tie.

“Yep,” he answered. “Apparently, all of the other places I applied at wanted me to have some type of job experience, and since I lack that, I didn’t get contacted for any interviews besides this one.”

“I wonder if Buffy will be there today,” Xander replied, and Spike tensed up, frowning.

“Even if she isn’t, I’m sure I’ll be seeing her on a constant basis if I get the job,” Spike said.

“Isn’t that a good thing? Being able to see her a lot and work alongside her?” his friend asked.

“I don’t know,” Spike answered. “The last time I saw her, I really screwed up.” He sighed. “I need to apologize to her, first and foremost, and then I need to get back in her good graces.”

“Were you ever ‘in her good graces’?” Xander asked, and Spike could tell he was smiling by the tone of his voice.

“She said I was nice at the bookstore, so I might’ve had a shot at that point,” Spike answered. “But I’m pretty sure I blew that to hell when I got drunk at the party, treated her pretty badly, and shoved her away from me.”

“You what?” Xander asked loudly, shocked.

“She was trying to grab my keys because she knew I was drunk, and I ended up pushing her away so I could leave,” Spike said. “I don’t think I hurt her or anything, but I didn’t mean to touch her like that.”

“Yeah, you’d better apologize, then,” Xander said. “Because the last thing you want people to hear is that you ‘shoved’ a girl, Spike. Violent men aren’t sexy.”

“I’m not violent,” Spike said, angry, becoming frustrated with his tie.

“I know that,” his friend said. “But she doesn’t.”

* * * * *

After finishing his interview with Manny, his new manager, Spike was given the opportunity to look around the place, which allowed him to see if Buffy was working. She was standing behind the counter, just finishing an order, when he appeared beside her. She looked at him and frowned, crossing her arms.

“Hi, Buffy,” he said quietly. “Can we talk?”

“I’m kind of working,” she said, turning away from him.

“Well, I will be, too, in about five minutes,” he replied. “When Manny gives me a uniform.” She turned around, stunned. “Surprise!”

“You’re working here?” she asked, shocked. “No, you can’t be.”

“Yep, I am,” he said. “I needed a job, so I’m taking the one I was offered here.”

“Why?” she asked, tilting her head. “Why would Prince Spike need a job? Did your parents cut off your funding?”

“I got in an accident and need to pay off everything,” he answered, looking away.

“I heard about that,” she said quietly. “Fred told me.” He nodded. ‘If you would’ve let me take your keys, it wouldn’t have happened.”

“I know,” he replied, looking at her. “And I’m sorry for how I acted, luv. I didn’t mean to push you or be such an ass.”

“You were drunk,” she said, shrugging. “Besides, you weren’t much different from how you usually are.” At his incredulous look, she gave him a small smile. “It’s fine- I’m over it. I’m just happy your parents are trying to teach you a lesson.” Manny walked over to them and handed Spike his uniform. She grinned at the disgusted look on his face. “Oh, how the mighty have fallen.”

“You’re funny, Summers,” Spike said sarcastically before walking away to go change. She smiled as she watched him walk into the back room of the building before turning back to her line of customers.
 

6:

About a week later, Buffy finished training Spike and was able to work on her own once again, letting him try his hand at serving customers by himself. She watched him take an order and giggled when the register wouldn’t open. He looked at her, somewhat helpless, and she walked over to him, pressing a button, which opened the register.

“You’re doing fine,” she said, gently squeezing his arm. “I’m only five feet away if you need me.” He smiled at her, and she returned to her register to take a couple of orders. When Riley suddenly was standing in front of her, she grinned. “Hey! I thought we weren’t meeting up until 8.” He showed her his watch, and she sighed with relief. “Thank god. I’m so sick of working for the day.” She took off the hat she had to wear and set it on the counter. “Want anything to eat?”

“How about a soda and fries?” he asked, and she nodded, going to get his food before handing it to him. “How much is it?”

“My treat,” she said, waving it off. “Nothing but the best greasy food for my boyfriend.” He chuckled. “Why don’t you have a seat, and I’ll come over to you when I’m all done?” He nodded and walked away, going towards a booth and sitting down.

Spike looked at Buffy once his line had depleted.

“You’re leaving?” he asked. “Who’s going to help me when I screw up again?”

“Well, there’s always Manny,” she said. “Or Amy. She can probably spare some time from the drive-thru if you get in a bind.” He frowned. “What? Are you trying to guilt me into staying here longer in case you forget to press a button again?” He pouted, and she sighed. “Ten minutes. After that, you’re on your own, pal.” He chuckled and leaned back on the counter, watching as she closed her register for the night. “You did well today for being on your own. I remember my first day alone- I short-changed at least two people, and I’m fairly certain no one got the right order.”

“But you’re still here, so it must’ve been okay,” he replied, and she shrugged.

“I think Manny could recognize how badly I needed the job,” she said. “My financial situation was dire, to say the least.” She looked down and quietly added, “Still is.”

“So, what’re you and the great ponce doing tonight?” he asked curiously, hoping he didn’t sound jealous at all.

“My friend Willow is having a small movie night, so we’ll probably go there,” she said, looking at him. “What about you?”

“I don’t know,” he replied. “Harmony’s having a party, so I’ll inevitably go there and be bored off my ass.” He hesitated before looking at her. “Do you want to go, too?”

“We’re from two very different caste systems,” she joked lightly. “Your girlfriend wouldn’t even let me in the house, let alone allow me to stay. Her and I don’t exactly mix.” He nodded and looked down. “But thanks.”

“Maybe a rain-check?” he asked, and she managed a small smile.

“Not to Harmony’s house,” she replied before clocking out. “Well, I’m going to leave- Riley’s almost done eating.” He sighed and nodded. “But have fun tonight, and I think we work together on Sunday, right?”

“Yeah,” he answered, putting his hands in his pockets. “I’ll see you then.”

“Bye, Spike,” she said, walking out from behind the counter and to Riley, kissing his cheek as he stood up. Spike watched them leave the building, all the while wishing that things would be different between them.

* * * * *

“So, how was work tonight?” Riley asked as they got in his car. “I couldn’t help but notice how friendly you and Spike seem to be.” She raised an eyebrow as she looked at him.

“We get along, yeah,” she said. “But we’re not friends, by any means. We’re civil when we need to be- that’s about it.” He started the car.

“I think something’s up with him, Buffy,” he said quietly, looking at the steering wheel. “He hasn’t said a word to me in a while, which when you consider how often he used to make fun of me, things seem very off. Nice, but off.” She looked out the window. “I think he likes you.”

“I doubt it,” she lied, pretending to be stunned. “Him and I are very dissimilar.”

“Doesn’t matter,” he replied, looking at her, insecurity lacing his words. “I wouldn’t put it past him.” He paused. “I wouldn’t be surprised if he’s trying to take you away from me, just because he can.”

“He can’t take me away from you,” she said, becoming upset. “I love you.”

“I love you, too,” he said. “But I can’t deny the fact that he can offer you a lot more than I can.”

“Where is this coming from?” she asked loudly. “Are you seriously saying that he’s better than you?”

“He is,” he replied sternly. “Everyone knows it.”

“I love you, Riley,” she said, taking his hand in hers. “Money, power, coveted spot on the soccer team- none of that matters to me and never will. Spike isn’t even half as amazing as you, and if you can’t understand that, then I feel very sorry for you.” He squeezed her hand and sighed.

“I love you, too,” he said sadly. “I just hope it’s enough.” Her features softened as she leaned over to softly kiss him.

“You have nothing to worry about,” she replied. “I promise.” He nodded and pulled out of the parking lot. She looked out the window again and thought about what he had said.

‘There’s no way Spike seriously likes me,’ she thought. ‘He’s mean, and a jerk, and he… has been really nice to me lately.’ She paused and shut her eyes, frowning. ‘Maybe Riley’s right. Wherein which… why would Spike want me? He’s got Harmony, pushy queen of slut-town. Isn’t that enough?’ She sighed. ‘But knowing Spike, he won’t stop until he gets what he wants, and if I’m what he wants, what’s going to happen?’ She looked at Riley and noticed the fact that he was gripping the wheel with a somewhat angry expression. ‘This isn’t going to end well.’
 

7:

When Sunday rolled around, Buffy was very skeptical to go to work, fearing that maybe Spike seriously did like her and had a plot against Riley. She cautiously looked around when she walked inside the Doublemeat Palace, managing to get to her locker in back when Spike appeared beside her.

“Hi,” she said quietly, not looking at him, which he noticed.

“Is everything okay?” he asked, worried, and she sighed, nodding. “Why won’t you look at me?”

“Do you like me, Spike?” she asked, looking at him. “I mean, not in just the friendly type of way. Do you like me?”

“Not going to lie when I say you’re beautiful, Goldilocks,” he said. “I’m sure I’ve made it clear in the past that I like you.”

“No, you’ve made it clear that you want to sleep with me,” she replied. “That’s not the same thing.”

“I like you, yes,” Spike said, looking away. “You’re intelligent, cute when you’re angry, diligent, and best of all, you’ve started warming up to me.” She tilted her head. “What?”

“Are you trying to screw Riley over?” she asked curiously. “I mean, are you trying to win me over so that you can take me away from him and one-up him?”

“No,” he answered, shocked by her questions. “Why would I do that? I know how it feels to be heart-broken because your girlfriend leaves you for someone else- I wouldn’t wish that on anyone.” She looked down. “But just because you two are together doesn’t mean that I’m going to stop liking you. I’m just going to wait until the day you two are no longer together so that I can slip in and have myself a good day.” She smiled slightly.

“But you’re not going to wait patiently, are you?” she asked, and he smirked.

“No way in hell,” he said, walking away. She laughed quietly before closing her locker and clocking in.

* * * * *

When there was a particularly long lull in the late afternoon, Buffy and Spike took a break and sat at one of the tables, talking.

“So, where are you applying to college?” Spike asked conversationally, sipping his soda.

“Every school that I can get a scholarship for,” she replied. “I may work my ass off, but I will never get enough money to pay off half of the schools I want to go to. Hopefully I’ll graduate as the valedictorian, thus giving me a better shot of impressing all of the Ivy League schools and getting them to fight for me.” He chuckled, and she smiled in return. “I just want to go away from here, you know? I’ve never really traveled much, and the last thing I want to do is stay in Sunnydale for the rest of my life.”

“What do you want to do as a career?” he asked, and she sighed.

“I want to be an author,” she answered wistfully, and he raised an eyebrow. “What?”

“Couldn’t you just get a degree in English at UC-Sunnydale and then leave to travel the globe?” he asked, and she shrugged.

“I guess, but it doesn’t sound like a whole lot of fun to me,” she said. “What about you? Where do you want to go next fall?”

“Probably UCLA,” he answered. “Far enough from home to be on my own but close enough in case of emergencies.”

“Like if you run out of money?” she asked, smiling, and he nodded. “Must be nice to have parents who can give you whatever you want.” He frowned, and she looked down. “I didn’t mean for that to sound bad- I just always wanted a life like yours, and after realizing I’d never have it, I got kind of bitter.”

“Rightfully so,” he said. “I know I’m a lucky bloke, and yes, I abuse the privileges I’ve been given, but no one’s really ever called me on it. Not until you.” She smirked and looked at him. “You know, Buffy, maybe I could talk to my mum about sending in a letter of recommendation to Wellesley for you. It’s her alma mater, after all.”

“Wellesley would be nice,” she replied, smiling. “But I couldn’t ask your mother to do that- I don’t even know her.”

“So come over after work,” he offered. “You can meet and charm her, which I happen to know you do very well.” She blushed and looked away. “Not like it’d do you any harm if she wrote one up for you.”

“That’d be really nice if she did,” she said. “Thank you for suggesting it.” He grinned.

“Not a problem,” he replied. “Besides, it’s a good excuse to take you home with me tonight.” She raised an eyebrow as he got up and walked back to the counter to start serving customers again.

‘He thinks I’m charming?’ she thought. ‘When it comes to charming people, he’s the king.’

* * * * *

After they finished working that night, Buffy followed Spike to his house and was stunned as she pulled up in front of a beautiful mansion.

‘Why am I surprised?’ she asked herself as she got out of her car and walked over to him. ‘I know he’s rich- this type of house shouldn’t have been a shock.’

“So, how do you like it?” he asked, motioning to the house. “The exterior is okay, but wait until you get inside- Mum’s put a lot of work into decorating it.”

“Well, when there isn’t a budget, it’s not too hard to make a house look palatial,” she said, and he raised an eyebrow. “Sorry- I warned you before that I can be bitter.” He took her hand in his as they walked to the front door, and she tensed up a bit before relaxing and not pulling her hand away from his.

‘We’re just holding hands- it’s not a big deal,’ she told herself. ‘Friends can hold hands, right?’ She paused. ‘Wait, are we even friends?’ He opened the door and led her in, and she stared around the foyer, her jaw dropping as she took in her surroundings. ‘Okay, if this is the type of place I can come to visit, then I’ll be his friend for life.’

“Hello, William,” an older woman said as she descended the main staircase, looking at the two teens. “This must be the infamous Buffy you’ve told me all about.” Buffy looked at Spike for a moment and saw the smirk on his face. “I’m Jenny, his mother.” The two women shook hands. “Welcome.”

“Thank you for allowing me to come over,” Buffy said. “Your house is beautiful.”

“Thank you,” Jenny said. “So, how about we go and have a chat about Wellesley, just us girls?” Buffy looked at Spike to gain his approval, and he nodded, smiling.

“I’ll come down in an hour,” he said, going to the stairs. “Be nice, Mum.” Jenny winked at her son, who grinned and walked upstairs. Jenny turned her attention to Buffy and smiled warmly.

“Now, William tells me you have an outstanding GPA,” she began, leading Buffy into a nicely-furnished living room area.

* * * * *

True to his word, Spike returned downstairs an hour later after taking a shower and calling Xander, only to find Buffy and his mother sitting on a couch and laughing. He smiled at the sight and tilted his head.

‘Mum’s never comfortable with the girls I’ve brought over,’ he thought. ‘But they’re really hitting it off.’ Buffy spotted him and stood up as he walked into the room. Jenny stood up, also, and patted her son on the shoulder.

“She’s a refreshing young woman,” Jenny said, causing Buffy to blush. “I feel like I’m 18 again, the world at my fingertips.” She looked at Buffy. “It was lovely to meet you, dear, and please don’t be a stranger.”

“Thank you so much,” Buffy said, shaking her hand again. “It was nice to meet you.”

“And you, as well,” Jenny said. “The letter will be in the mail tomorrow morning.” She kissed her son on the cheek. “Have a good night, you two.” She exited the room and returned upstairs, leaving Buffy and Spike in silence. Buffy cleared her throat and smiled sheepishly.

“It’s getting late- I should probably go,” she said. “But thanks again for inviting me over- your mother is very sweet.”

“You’re welcome,” he said. “Anything to be of service.” She smiled and followed him to the front door. “So, I’ll see you at work on Tuesday?”

“Yep,” she answered, nodding. “Have a good night, Spike.”

“Good night, Buffy,” he said quietly, watching her leave with a soft expression. He shut the door before leaning back against it, shutting his eyes and hoping that maybe things would improve more between he and Buffy.

Meanwhile, Buffy pulled away from the house with a smile on her face.

‘This was really cool of Spike to do,’ she thought. ‘Maybe he’s not so bad after all.’

She was too wrapped up in the flood of thoughts that filtered through her head to notice the car that began following her home. If she had really looked in the rearview mirror, she would’ve seen that Riley was behind her, upset and angry, having witnessed her leave Spike’s house.
 

8:

Buffy had just gotten home from school the next day when she heard the doorbell ring. She put her backpack down and opened the door, surprised when Riley pushed right past her, letting himself in.

‘Hello to you, too,’ she thought. ‘Since when does he just barge in, uninvited?’ She sighed. ‘I wonder if Spike said something to him, because if he did, that would explain why Riley looks as if someone punched him in the stomach.’

“What’s wrong?” she asked, worried. “Did something happen at school?” He turned to face her, crossing his arms as a furious expression covered his face.

“Why were you at Spike’s house last night?” he asked, and she froze, stunned. “What? Didn’t think I’d find out? How stupid do you think I am, Buffy? I see the way he looks at you, and I know you have feelings for him, too.”

“What’re you talking about?” she asked, becoming upset. “I don’t like Spike, not as more than a friend.”

“So you two are definitely friends now?” he asked sharply.

“Yeah,” she said quietly. “What does it matter? I can be friends with anyone I want to, and it’s not like he’s ever been that bad to me.” She paused. “Well, I guess he’s been a jerk, but that’s just the rebellious façade he has.” She hesitated and looked down. “How did you know I was there?”

“I followed you after work,” he admitted sheepishly, and her jaw dropped in indignation.

“You followed me?” she asked in a low tone. “You really don’t trust me, do you?”

“I trust you,” he said, frowning. “It’s Spike that I don’t trust.” She nodded sadly and looked away. “I don’t understand how you can be friends with someone who disgusts me and will stop at nothing to piss me off.”

“Because I’ve seen how kind he can be,” she said, looking at him. “I know he’s a bastard sometimes, but after getting to know him more through work, I’ve been able to see more of his true personality.” He sighed and clenched his jaw.

“I don’t think this is going to work,” he said, and her eyes slowly widened as she realized what he was saying. “I can’t be with someone who won’t stick by my side and support me.”

“What the hell are you talking about?” she asked, angry. “I’ve been nothing but supportive.”

“If you supported me, you wouldn’t even talk to him,” he replied, putting his hands in his pockets. “He’s made my life a living hell since freshman year, Buffy- seeing you with him kills me more than I can bear, and I just can’t-”

“Go,” she said, her fists clenching. “Just go.” His expression softened as he stepped forward to hug her, but she backed up, pushing him away. “You really must not love me if this is why you’re going to end our relationship.”

“I love you,” he said with conviction. “But I can’t handle you being friends with him.” He went to the door and paused as he opened it, his back to her. “I always knew you’d go for a better guy.” Before she could respond, he left, slamming the door behind him.

Buffy held back the tears in her eyes for a moment as she went to dial a familiar number in her phone.

“Hello?”

“Willow, can you come over?” Buffy asked quietly before beginning to sob.

* * * * *

Spike grabbed his ringing cell phone as he drove home from school, cursing as he nearly dropped it before answering it.

“Hello?” he asked, annoyed as he noticed that Harmony flashed on the phone’s screen.

“Hi, blondie bear,” she said cheerfully. “What are we doing tonight?”

“I’m working on an English paper,” he replied sternly. “Since it’s a school night, you silly bint.”

“So what? You’ve never done papers before,” she said, and he could tell she was pouting. “You just pay someone else to write one for you.”

“Yeah, well, I’m turning over a new leaf,” he said. “But feel free to go out.”

“Maybe I will,” she said sharply. “With a guy who actually cares about me and takes me out to nice places, something you haven’t done in a very long time, Spike.” He sighed and shook his head, becoming more irritated.

‘I should’ve just told her to get stuffed a long time ago,’ he thought. ‘What did I ever see in her?’ He paused. ‘I blame it on my hormones.’ He caught himself before he could chuckle. ‘Horniness is a disease, I’d wager, especially when it leads you to a trollop like Harmony.’

“I hear Billy Fordham likes you,” he said flippantly. “Why don’t you call him up?”

“Are you seriously suggesting I go out with someone else?” she asked.

“Luv, you’ve been going out with other people for a while now,” he replied. “So far be it for me to tell you not to because you’ll continue shagging other guys behind my back.” He sighed. “Well, not behind my back because I’ve known all along, but you get what I mean.”

“You’re making a big mistake, Spike,” she said, angry. “You’ll never find someone as good as me.”

“Oh, I think I will,” he replied, smirking. “In fact, I already have.”

“Who?” she asked, shocked. “Who can possibly be better than me?”

“Oh, just some girl I know,” he said. “Buffy Summers.” She gasped loudly, causing him to chuckle.

“Her?” she asked. “There’s no way she’s better than me, Spike! She’s poor, and a bookworm, and-”

“Utterly adorable,” he said, stopping at a stoplight. “She’s ten times better than you, Harm- I’m sorry.”

“Please don’t do this, Spikie,” she said, sounding heartbroken.

“It’s for the best,” he replied. “Good luck, Harmony, and maybe I’ll see you around.” He hung up and tossed his phone onto the passenger seat. As he realized what had just happened, he grinned widely. “Ding dong, the witch is dead.” He chuckled more as the light turned green, allowing him to speed off towards home.
 

9:

The following day, Spike arrived at work and noticed Buffy slamming her locker shut in the back room of the Doublemeat Palace. He slowly approached her, not wanting to either scare her or piss her off more.

“You alright, pet?” he asked, and she turned to look at him, her eyes slightly red and puffy. “What’s wrong?”

“It’s nothing,” she mumbled, walking away, but he caught up to her, walking beside her.

“Did something happen at school?” he asked, and she remembered asking Riley something similar the day before, which caused her to tear up. Spike’s eyes widened.

‘I wonder if Harmony said something to her,’ he thought before restraining himself from slapping his forehead for even mentioning Buffy to Harmony. ‘Bugger.’

“You didn’t happen to talk to Harmony today, did you?” he asked cautiously, and she raised an eyebrow, looking at him.

“No,” she answered, and he sighed with relief. “She wasn’t at school. I heard a couple of girls say she was taking a ‘mental health day’, whatever that means.” She paused, wiping off the corners of her eyes. “Why?”

“Well, I kind of… dumped her yesterday,” he said sheepishly, surprised when she slightly smirked at him. “What?”

“Wow, yesterday really was a bad day, wasn’t it?” she asked, shaking her head and looking away. “You and Harmony broke up, Riley dumped me, I got a B on an English paper-”

“Whoa, wait a second,” he said, cutting her off. “What was that middle part you said? About Riley?” She sighed and shoved her hands in the pockets of her uniform pants, trying not to cry as she remembered what Riley had said to her.

“He came over after school and told me that he and I weren’t working anymore,” she said quietly. “He thinks that you and I have something going on between us.” He smirked before looking away, hoping she didn’t notice the happy look on his face. “So, guess we’re both singletons now.”

“Looks like,” he agreed. “It’s for the best, though, Buffy.” She looked at him and hesitantly nodded.

“Yeah, I guess it is,” she said before continuing to walk to her register. “You should go clock-in before Manny notices you aimlessly standing around, talking to me.” He chuckled and nodded, turning to walk into the back room again. She watched him go, tilting her head.

‘Him and I both being single at the same time can’t be of the good,’ she thought as a customer came over to her.

* * * * *

“We haven’t had a customer in almost half an hour,” Buffy said, looking at a clock on the wall. “Who really comes here after eleven o’clock on a school-night to get greasy food?”

“No one I can think of,” Spike mumbled, turning off his register for the night. “Let’s just clock-out and go home, luv. I’ll drive you.” She raised an eyebrow, looking at him. “What? Riley used to be your wheels home, and since he no longer wants to play your knight in shining armor, I’ll gladly fill in.” She giggled and shook her head, shutting off her register, too. “You’ll let me?”

“I’ll let you drive me, yes,” she answered, beginning to walk away. “But not the ‘knight in shining armor’ thing.” He frowned before following her, shutting the door behind him as they got into the back room. She opened her locker and grabbed her stuff, in the meantime taking off her uniform hat and smoothing down her hair.

“Why not?” he asked as he opened his locker. “I could even try to show up on a trusty white steed.”

“You’re bent,” she said, laughing quietly, and he grinned.

“How would you know? Sneaking peeks in my window at night to see my manly bits?” he joked, noticing the deep blush that began to cover her cheeks. “Wow, you really are adorable.” She looked away quickly, trying her hardest not to smile. “Oh come on, princess, I’m just kidding around. Don’t have to pretend I’m sullying your virtue or something.” She closed her locker.

“No, that would’ve been Parker,” she replied, looking at him, and he sighed before nodding. “Everyone told me you were like him, Spike, did you know that?” He looked away. “I believed them, too, and a little part of me still does.” He closed his locker sadly. “But a larger part of me doesn’t believe that at all.” He looked at her, surprised. “You’ve been pretty sweet to me at points, and I guess I just wanted to thank you for that. It’s nice to know you’re not really the rebellious bad-ass you try so hard to be.” Before she could realize what was happening, he gently cupped her cheeks in his hands and kissed her softly. She allowed the kiss to continue for a moment before quickly pushing him away, her eyes wide. “What the hell was that?”

“A you’re welcome, of sorts,” he answered, stunned when she quickly turned and ran out of the building. “Oh bollocks.” He chased after her, catching her before she was out of the parking lot, grabbing her arm and turning her around. “Buffy-”

“You kissed me,” she said in a low tone. “You kissed me, Spike!”

“Yes, I know I did,” he said quietly. “And I’m sorry if that bothered you, but-”

“No, that’s not the problem,” she replied, looking away. “The problem is that it didn’t bother me.” His eyes widened as she focused on him again. “I just got out of a year-long relationship, Spike. The last thing I should be thinking of is dating someone else.”

“You want to date me?” he asked, smiling, and she shot him a look. He raised his hands in surrender. “Sorry. Just trying to lighten the mood.”

“It’s just not a good idea for me to get involved with anyone right now, least of all you,” she said, and when she saw the hurt look on his face, she quickly continued. “I just mean that Riley suspected you and I might’ve been… close, so I don’t want to confirm his suspicious.” She paused. “For a while, at least.”

“Then we won’t let anyone know,” Spike said, taking her hands in his and gently squeezing them. “We’ll just be secretive for a while.” She frowned. “Please give me a chance, Buffy. I want to prove to you that I can be a nice guy all of the time, not just sometimes.”

“I don’t think I can,” she said, looking down, and he let go of one of her hands to tilt her chin up.

“Yes, luv, you can,” he replied, grazing her cheek. “Just one date- that’s all I want.”

“Liar,” she said, managing a small smile. “You want a lot more than that.” He grinned widely, and she sighed. “Fine, one date, but that’s it.” He leaned down to kiss her once more, but this time, she kissed him back, which only served to surprise Spike more.

“Come on, Goldilocks,” he said. “We should get you home so you can rest up for our date tomorrow.”

“Tomorrow?” she asked, and he nodded, smirking.

“What can I say?” he asked, shrugging. “I’m impatient and can’t wait.”
 

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