Chapter 1:

Spike Brooks looked around the kitchen of his restaurant and shook his head, crossing his arms.

“This place looks like hell,” he said loudly, getting the attention of his employees, who were madly scurrying about, trying to finish completing orders for the restaurant’s customers. “There’s flour all over the floor, truffles melting on the counter, and is that a rag beside the oven, dangerously close to the flame beneath the saucepan?”

“Sorry,” his friend Xander said, grabbing the rag quickly.

“Are you trying to burn the place down, whelp?” Spike asked, shooting a pointed look at the brunette man. “I didn’t know sabotaging your place of work was a priority.”

“It was a mistake,” Xander replied sincerely. “I’m sorry.” Spike sighed and unfolded his arms, putting his hands in his pockets instead.

“I’m sorry, everyone,” he said, looking around at the people watching him nervously. “I’m under a lot of stress, especially with the competition coming up.”

“You’ll do great,” Xander said, patting his shoulder. “Andrew and I are going to help you through it, alright?” Spike looked at Andrew, who was cutting up a head of lettuce and nodding in agreement. “Plus, I think Jonathon and Warren volunteered to do some of the prep work before the competition starts.”

“I just wish it was over already,” Spike said, running a hand over his face, frustrated. “There’s a lot riding on this one, you know.”

“Spike, you’ve won the last five years, ever since you opened Chantarelle’s,” Andrew said, looking at his boss and friend. “I wouldn’t worry so much if I were you.”

“Yeah, but now I have to contend with Buffy Summers, the owner of Joyce’s Pastry Shop,” Spike replied, annoyed. “And I’ve been told she’s one hell of a chef.”

“She’s a newbie,” Xander said, and Spike looked at him with a quirked eyebrow. “People tend to stick with what they know, which means that you’ve got an advantage over her.”

“Are you saying I’m old?” Spike asked, his tone becoming light. Xander smiled and stirred the sauce on the oven. “So, who wants to go spy on my major competition with me?”

“I will,” both Xander and Andrew said in unison, causing Spike to chuckle.

* * * * *

“Anya, you put way too much sugar in this,” Buffy said, making a face as she took another bite of a piece of cheesecake. “I can’t sell cakes that taste like this.”

“I’m sorry,” Anya apologized, taking off her apron. “But you distracted me while I was pouring it into the mixer.”

“How did I distract you? By telling you that it’s hot in here?” Buffy asked, frowning. “You need to be more careful. I don’t want to throw away a bunch of otherwise perfect cheesecakes.”

“I know,” her friend said, grabbing a tray of éclairs and following her boss into the storefront of the building. “So, are you excited for the Best Dessert In Sunnydale Competition?”

“Of course,” Buffy answered, smiling. “I’ve been looking forward to it ever since I applied at culinary school years ago.”

“Need help unloading those?” their friend Willow asked, appearing from behind them, pointing to the tray Anya was holding. “I finished the dishes.”

“Sure,” Anya said, putting the tray down on a counter as Willow walked over to her.

“Do either of you need my help?” Buffy asked, and both women shook their heads. “I’ll be in the back, working on my top secret project.”

“Is that code for you’ll be on-line?” Willow asked, and Buffy laughed.

“Pretty much,” Buffy replied, walking away from the girls as the door opened, three men walking inside and looking around.

“May we help you?” Anya asked, looking at them with a hopeful expression.

“Yeah,” Xander said, stepping forward and smiling at the blonde woman. “We’d like to sample some of your products.”

“I’m getting married soon and offered to find a cake for my reception,” Spike partially lied, smiling at the women. “But it seems you sell more than just cakes.”

“We have a wide variety of things,” Willow said, motioning to the glass coolers and display cases surrounding her. “Macaroons, truffles, mini cakes, cheesecake suckers, and these really neat cookies that we fill with jelly.” Xander looked at the cookies and grinned, suddenly becoming hungry. “Would you like to try a little bit of everything?”

“Sure,” Spike answered, nonchalantly surveying the room as Anya and Willow began taking trays out and putting samples on little plates. Xander and Andrew sat down at a table and motioned for Spike to join them, but he indiscreetly shook his head and continued to visually assess the place. “Pretty nice business for such young women to run.”

“Oh, it’s not ours,” Anya said, putting three plates down on the table that Xander and Andrew were occupying. “Our friend Buffy owns it.”

“Oh,” Spike said, finally knowing for certain that neither of them was his competitor.

‘Probably better this way,’ he thought as he sat with his friends and looked at the plate of dessert samples in front of him. ‘Along with being safer. If she saw us now and then at the competition, we might have a problem on our hands.’

“Dig in,” Willow said, handing them forks. All three men chose a different sample first and all made pleased faces as they swallowed the delicious desserts.

‘Wow,’ Spike thought, surprised. ‘If this is Buffy’s work, then she’s pretty good.’ He paused. ‘But not as good as I am.’

The three men continued eating until their plates were empty and stood up to dispose of them.

“So, what’s the consensus?” Willow asked after talking to several customers who had sat down.

“We’ll get back to you,” Spike answered, smiling. “I’m particularly fond of the key lime cheesecake.”

“Me too,” she said, returning his smile. “Well, if we don’t see you again, good luck with your wedding and congratulations.”

“Thank you,” he replied, turning around and exiting the building, his friends behind him.

Buffy stood in the doorway, her arms crossed over her chest and an irritated look on her face. Willow noticed her and raised an eyebrow at her friend’s cross expression.

“What’s wrong?” the redhead asked, worried.

“What the hell was Spike Brooks doing in here?” Buffy asked, and Willow’s face fell.

“That was him?” she asked, and Buffy nodded sternly. “I didn’t recognize him from his picture in the paper.” She paused and looked outside, watching the men cross the street and talking excitedly. “I’m sorry.”

“It’s fine,” Buffy said angrily, turning around and disappearing into the back kitchen.

Willow and Anya shared a look.

“Oops.”
 

Chapter 2:

The men entered Chantarelle’s again and were surprised to see the woman the restaurant was named after sitting at the bar and talking to Charles Gunn, the main bartender. Spike walked over to his fiancé and sat beside her, kissing her cheek.

“Hi,” Lily Chantarelle said, smiling widely at him. “I heard you went to Joyce’s Pastry Shop.” He nodded and raised an eyebrow when she frowned at him. “Did anyone know who you are?”

“Nope,” he said. “We walked in, tried some stuff, and walked out.”

“You know that’s not fair,” she replied. “Spying on the owner and what she makes.”

“What’s the harm in sampling some of her products?” he asked, giving Gunn a grateful smile as he handed him a tall glass of beer. “I don’t think it was wrong at all.” He took a swig of his beer and put it down on the bar. “Besides, for all I know, she’s come in here before and ate some of our stuff, judging if the desserts here are competition for her.”

“Just don’t get in trouble, alright?” she asked, running her hand over his back. “I don’t want to see my gorgeous fiancé get into any mischief.”

“I’ll be a good boy,” he said, smirking. She laughed and stood up, patting his shoulder. “You’re leaving?”

“I’ve got a couple of errands to run before the shops in town close,” she answered, digging through her purse for her car keys. “I’ll see you tomorrow, right?”

“You’re not staying at the apartment tonight?” he asked, pouting, and she shook her head, leaning down to kiss him. “Why not?”

“Have an early morning, and you won’t get home until two or three,” she said, shrugging. “I’ll be asleep when you come in, and you’ll be dead to the world when I need to leave. It doesn’t make too much sense for me to stay in your apartment alone for a while.”

“Fine,” he said sadly, and she ran her hand through his tousled locks before walking away and leaving the restaurant.

“Why do you look so glum, boss?” Gunn asked, studying the blonde man’s expression.

“Is it wrong for me to wonder if my fiancé is being faithful?” Spike asked, and Gunn tilted his head. “What? I’m the only serious boyfriend she’s ever had, so it wouldn’t surprise me if she wanted to-”

“Lily loves you,” Gunn cut in, pouring a couple of drinks in the meantime. “She’s a sweet woman with a big heart, and you’re the only man she cares about, Spike. I would bet my truck that she’s not cheating on you.”

“Yeah, I guess you’re right,” Spike replied, finishing his beer. “Thanks.”

“You’re welcome,” Gunn said, watching as Spike stood up and walked to his office, letting himself inside before shutting the door.

‘Lily better not sleep with anyone besides him,’ Gunn thought. ‘And me.’

* * * * *

“Buffy?” Willow asked quietly as she stepped into her boss’ office. “Are you alright?”

“I wish I had known he was here,” Buffy said, staring blankly at her computer screen. “I would’ve told him to leave.”

“He doesn’t look like the guy in that picture,” Willow said, pointing to a newspaper clipping that Buffy had framed on her wall, showing and discussing a few chefs involved in the upcoming competition. “He looks a lot better in person.” Buffy raised an eyebrow at her friend, surprised when she saw her blush. “What? You know I love Oz, but you’ve got to admit that Spike’s not too bad on the eyes.”

“Yuck,” Buffy replied, turning off the computer’s monitor and standing up. “So, what are your plans tonight?”

“Oz wants to take me out to dinner,” Willow said, shrugging. “What about you?”

“I don’t really know,” Buffy answered, grabbing her purse. “Did Anya go home?”

“Yeah,” Willow said, following her boss to the front door. “Do you maybe want to go out to dinner with us?”

“I wouldn’t want to impose,” Buffy said, managing a weak smile. “Being a third wheel isn’t fun- it makes things very imbalanced.”

“You’re practically family,” Willow said, nudging the blonde’s arm. “Please? We can even go somewhere fancy.” Buffy paused and her eyes widened before locking with her friend’s. “What?”

“How about Chantarelle’s?” Buffy asked, and Willow frowned, tilting her head.

“I don’t think that’s a good idea, Buffy,” she said, but her friend merely shrugged and grinned.

“It’s only fair.”

* * * * *

“Wow, this place is posh,” Buffy said as she entered Chantarelle’s with Willow and Oz a while later.

“It’s beautiful,” Willow agreed before they went to the host’s stand and were seated. They sat at a booth in a back corner and opened their menus, their jaws slowly dropping. “Twenty dollars for fettuccini alfredo? Noodles aren’t that expensive!”

“Settle down,” Oz said, patting his girlfriend’s thigh underneath the table. “I’m paying tonight.”

“It’s still a travesty,” Willow replied, shaking her head. “And look at the prices of seafood!”

“Looks like a soup and salad for me,” Buffy said, staring at the menu. “And my dinner will still be expensive.”

“Since when is money a problem?” Willow asked curiously. “I thought you were making money hand-over-fist.”

“I am, but I’m still careful with how much money I spend,” Buffy said, sighing.

“I love my frugal friend,” Willow replied, giggling as Buffy shot her a look.

“Hello, my name is Fred, and I’ll be your waitress tonight,” a brunette woman said as she stopped to stand beside the table. “Can I interest you in any wine or other beverages first?”

“Water,” both Buffy and Willow answered, which earned them an odd look from the waitress.

“I’ll have some Merlot,” Oz said, and Fred nodded before walking away.

“See anyone we know in here?” Willow asked, looking around.

“Not yet,” Buffy said, scanning the tables. “And I haven’t seen any of the guys from before, either.”

“The brunette man from this afternoon just walked into the kitchen,” Willow said, and Buffy turned to look at the kitchen doors, pausing as she saw Spike exit them.

Spike felt as if someone was watching him and looked around, locking eyes with a blonde woman sitting at a booth with a man and a familiar woman.

‘Oh yes, Red from the pastry shop,’ he thought, raising an eyebrow. ‘I wonder who the other woman is.’

To be polite, he walked over to the table, which made Buffy stiffen up, worried that all hell was about to break loose.

“Hello, Willow,” Spike said as he neared the table, sending a warm smile in her direction. “It’s nice to see you again.”

“Hi,” she replied anxiously, wondering if he recognized the woman sitting beside her.

“And who has the privilege of joining you tonight?” Spike asked, his gaze traveling over to Buffy, who was studying him.

“This is Oz, my boyfriend,” Willow said, motioning to the man who gave Spike a small wave.

“And who might you be, luv?” Spike asked, his eyes never breaking away to look at Oz, staying focused on Buffy.

“You don’t know who I am?” she asked, and he shook his head, confused. “Well, I must say I’m surprised, Mr. Brooks. You should be very aware of your enemies.” He raised an eyebrow, still perplexed. “My name is Buffy. Buffy Summers.” She extended a hand to him, grinning, and he stared at it, stunned.

“Oh.”
 

Chapter 3:

“So, what brings you here?” Spike asked as he shook Buffy’s hand, delighting in the fact that her hand fit perfectly in his before mentally reprimanding himself.

‘What’re you thinking, mate?’ he asked himself. ‘She’s definitely the enemy, and you’re happily engaged.’ He paused, frowning at the thought. ‘Well, at least you think you are.’

“You came to my shop to sample stuff, so I thought I’d try what you’ve got, too,” she said neutrally. “I think that’s fair, don’t you?”

“Of course,” he said after hesitating for a long moment. “I’ll see to it that everything meets your level of expectation.”

“You don’t need to impress me,” she replied, and he raised an eyebrow.

“If anyone needs to impress someone, it’s you,” he said, noticing how quickly her jaw dropped. “You’re new to this business, so let me give you a few pointers.”

“I don’t think I want to hear anything you have to tell me,” she said sharply. “I came here to eat, and that’s all I want to do.”

“Fine,” Spike said, holding back a smirk at her irritation. “What will it be?”

“I think I’d rather talk to Fred than you,” she said, seeing the brunette waitress heading in their direction. “It was nice to finally meet you, Spike, and I’ll be seeing you very soon.”

“Yes, you will,” he said, smiling. “When I kick your ass at the competition.”

“Whatever you say,” she replied firmly. “But all of that cockiness just proves how insecure you really are about your talents. If you’re that good, you wouldn’t be worried about little old me.” He leaned over the table, his face only inches from hers.

“I’m very good at what I do,” he said in a low tone, which sent a shiver down her spine. “But it’s too bad you’ll never experience what I have to offer.”

“Good,” she managed to get out, and he stood up straight once again, turning his attention to Willow and Oz.

“Enjoy your meals,” he said in a calm tone. “And if you ever return, don’t bring blondie here back.” He turned and walked away, never seeing the outraged look on Buffy’s face.

“Well, he seems like an interesting guy,” Oz said, and Buffy stared at him. “What?”

“I don’t need this,” she answered, standing up. “Have a nice night, you two.” She stormed off and left the restaurant, not noticing that Spike’s eyes followed her until she was out of sight.

* * * * *

“You know, guys really suck,” Buffy said as she scooped a spoonful of ice cream out of its tub and ate it. “Don’t ever fall in love- it’s not worth it.”

“Why are you so mopey?” her sister Dawn asked. “Bad day at work?”

“Satan entered my life,” Buffy mumbled, eating another scoop of ice cream. “In the form of Spike Brooks.”

“You saw him?” Dawn asked, and Buffy nodded, scowling. “What happened?”

“He came to Joyce’s today and asked for samples, which Anya and Willow gave him, not knowing who he was,” she began to explain, stabbing at the ice cream still in the carton. “So I went to Chantarelle’s tonight, thinking it would be fair to see what his restaurant is like, and he… came to the table Willow, Oz, and I were at.”

“So you talked to him?” Dawn asked, and Buffy nodded again. “How’d that go?”

“Ridiculously bad,” she answered. “He’s a jerk, Dawnie, and I can’t wait to win and prove to him that I’m better than everyone thinks I am.”

“He’s just worried that he’ll lose to a woman,” Dawn said, sighing. “Don’t get upset over it. It’s a Friday night- go out and enjoy yourself.”

“I’m fine,” Buffy said, noticing that there was very little ice cream left. “Damn it.”

“Come on, let’s go,” Dawn said, grabbing her sister’s arm and pulling her up to stand. “Let’s have a night on the town, just you and I. It’ll be like sister bonding time.”

“Can we get more ice cream?” Buffy asked with a twinge of hopefulness in her tone.

“Whatever you want,” Dawn said, ushering her sister to the apartment’s door. “But just remember- it’ll go straight to your hips.”

“Bite me,” Buffy muttered, shaking her head when her sister giggled beside her.

* * * * *

“Stupid bloody bint,” Spike said as he locked up the restaurant later that night, Xander standing next to him. “She should learn to have a little respect for me.”

“Can you blame her?” Xander asked, and Spike looked at him, confused. “You infiltrated her pastry shop to find out stuff about her.”

“‘Infiltrated’? It wasn’t Mission Impossible!” Spike said loudly, angry. “Where does she get off coming in tonight to eat?”

“Where do you get off going to her store this afternoon?” Xander asked, not understanding why his friend was so upset.

“It’s just not right!” Spike shouted, taking a deep breath to calm down. “She’s a pain my ass already, and the competition hasn’t even started.”

“Well, competition is a healthy thing,” Xander said, walking with Spike to their cars. “And it doesn’t help she’s beautiful.” Spike looked at him, surprised. “I saw that Willow girl come in and put two and two together.”

“She’s not beautiful,” Spike said, and Xander stopped walking, crossing his arms with a knowing smirk on his face. “Fine, she’s absolutely magnificent.”

“Watch what you say, buddy,” Xander said, patting Spike’s shoulder. “You’ve got a pretty hot fiancé waiting for you.”

“She’s not at my apartment,” Spike replied, looking down. “She said she wanted to stay home tonight.”

“Why do you seem so sad about that?” Xander asked. “I would’ve thought you’d enjoy having a night away from the soon-to-be ball and chain.”

“I think something’s going on with her,” Spike said quietly. “She’s been acting really weird lately, and every time I mention the wedding, she gets this look on her face that doesn’t make me too happy.”

“I wouldn’t worry,” Xander said, shrugging. “She’s probably just nervous.”

“Yeah, I guess,” Spike said, sighing and unlocking his car, which was parked beside Xander’s. “Have a good night.”

“You too, man,” Xander replied, getting in his car and watching as Spike sped off into the night, knowing damn well that Lily wasn’t nervous, like he had told Spike.

‘She’s lying to him,’ Xander thought, starting his car. ‘And as soon as I have good evidence, I’m throwing the book at her.’

Chapter 4:

A few days passed, and as the competition loomed over her, Buffy began to freak out, very stressed and worried about losing to Spike.

“The battle’s tomorrow,” Buffy said, looking around the kitchen of Joyce’s Pastry Shop. “And I don’t think my weapons are good enough.”

“You’ll do awesome,” Willow said, leaning against a counter. “We’ve been working our butts off until sunset every night, and you perfected your peanut butter and chocolate chip cookies.”

“Yeah, those were good,” Anya said, staring at one that was sitting in a display case. “Very, very good.”

“Go ahead and eat it,” Buffy said, smiling a little, and Anya grinned, grabbing it and biting into it with an excited look on her face. “Dork.”

“It’s a perk of working at a place like this,” Anya said, shrugging. “I can’t wait until this whole mess is over.”

“Right there with you, scooter,” Willow agreed, pulling her hair into a ponytail. “I could use a week off.”

“Me too,” Buffy said, double-checking that everything in the refrigerators looked alright. “Thank you both so much for helping me. I don’t know what I’d do without you two.”

“Lose?” Anya offered, and Buffy smiled, shrugging. “Who else wants to go out for a drink?”

“I’d love to,” Buffy said, and Willow nodded. “Let’s go, then.” They closed up the shop and walked down the street, going inside The Little Green Tavern, a bar owned by a family friend of Buffy’s named Rupert Giles.

After sitting down at a table and ordering drinks, they began talking amongst themselves when Buffy noticed Willow frown, looking across the room and focusing on something. Buffy followed her gaze and scowled when she saw Spike and one of his friends playing pool.

“Why does he have to be here?” she asked, narrowing her eyes at him. “Shouldn’t he be at his restaurant or something?”

“Maybe he needs to unwind, too,” Anya suggested, looking at his friend. “His name was Xander, right?” Willow nodded, drinking some of her soda. “He’s pretty good-looking.”

“Don’t you dare like a guy who’s friends with a man like Spike,” Buffy chided. “That won’t lead to anything good.”

“He seemed pretty nice,” Anya replied, shrugging. “He was polite and has a charming smile.”

“Those are the ones you have to watch out for,” Willow said. “They might be overcompensating for something.”

“So what if he is? He could be a Viking in the sack,” Anya said, giggling, and Buffy shook her head, sighing.

“Do you ever think before you talk?” she asked, smiling when Anya shot her a pointed look. “You’re just very honest about what you say.”

“Well, they say honesty is the best policy,” Anya said, standing up. “I think I’m going to have a word with him.”

“Conversing with the enemy? Are you insane?” Buffy hissed. “If you go over there, I’m not paying you for a month.”

“Money or sex- which sounds better?” Anya asked with a pensive expression on her face. “I think I’ve got enough in my savings for a month, so I’m voting sex.” She walked away while Buffy’s jaw dropped in anger.

“You’ve got to be kidding me!” she said in a low tone. “I’m going to kill her when the competition is over.”

“It’s not like she’s going to tell them any of your secret recipes or anything,” Willow said, finishing her drink. “I really wouldn’t worry.”

“Doesn’t matter,” Buffy said, looking into her glass. “It’s the principle of the matter.”

“Let’s just have a good night, okay?” Willow asked, and Buffy nodded before looking at Anya, now talking and laughing with Xander as Spike took a shot, making it, before looking at Buffy.

‘Why’s he looking at me?’ she asked herself, confused. ‘I don’t like the way his eyes are traveling up and down my body- it’s creepy.’ He smiled at her before taking another shot. She quickly ducked her head before finishing her soda and standing up.

“Time for a refill,” she said. “Want one, too?” Willow shook her head and raised an eyebrow when she noticed a slight blush in her friend’s cheeks. “Be right back.”

Buffy headed over to the bar and sat down on a stool, placing her order and waiting for it. When she saw someone sit beside her out of the corner of her eye, she turned her head and frowned, realizing who it was.

“Hello, luv.”

* * * * *

“What are you doing?” she asked in an even tone, raising an eyebrow when Spike grinned at her.

“Trying to have a polite conversation with you,” he answered, ordering himself another beer. “It’s what people do in civilized cultures.”

“You don’t seem all that civilized to me,” she said, tapping her fingers on the bar as she impatiently waited for her order.

“What’s got you so huffy… Buffy?” he asked, chuckling. “That rhymed!”

“Congratulations for passing first grade,” she said, tilting her head as she looked at him. “Go away, Spike.”

“And miss the opportunity to talk to my favorite competitor?” he asked, smirking. “I don’t think so.”

“You’ll see me tomorrow when I kick your ass and win,” she said, smiling gratefully at the bartender when he put her glass of beer down in front of her. “Thanks.”

“You don’t strike me as a beer girl,” he said, surprised. “I would’ve thought you’d order a fruity concoction or something. You know, a girly drink.”

“I felt like something different,” she replied, standing up. “Besides, don’t want to drink too much tonight and end up with a hangover tomorrow.”

“Yeah, that wouldn’t be too good,” he said before shrugging. “Well, it wouldn’t be good for you, but it would increase my chances of sending you to second place.”

“In your dreams, Billy,” she said, turning around and walking away, returning to the table Willow was sitting at.

“Did I just see you talking to Spike?” the redhead asked, and Buffy nodded, looking down. “How’d that go?”

“How do you think it went?” Buffy asked sternly before drinking some of her beer. “I can’t wait to knock him down a notch or two.”
 

Chapter 5:

The following morning, Buffy checked in at the competition and followed the directions she was given before walking to the work station she was assigned. Anya and Willow showed up minutes later and began helping Buffy prepare things before it was time to start cooking.

“Spike and his friends just showed up,” Willow said, putting on an apron. “He seems to be ready for action, so to speak.” Buffy raised an eyebrow at her friend.

“Xander’s definitely good when it comes to action,” Anya chipped in, grinning dreamily. “You should see him in bed… He’s like a stallion.”

“Yuck!” Buffy said, wrinkling her nose in disgust. “Now I’m going to have that mental image burned in my brain for a while.”

“Me, too,” Anya replied, smiling proudly. “What did you expect? I came, I saw, and I… came a whole bunch of times after that.”

“Feel free to leave any time,” Buffy said, shooting a pointed look at her. “Now, can we focus on the mission at hand?”

“The mission is what matters,” Willow replied, sighing. “We’ve heard this speech a couple of times now, Buffy.”

“I just want to make sure everything is okay and set to go,” she said, taking a deep breath. “I can’t lose, girls. There’s a lot more riding on this whole thing than you think.”

“Your pride?” Anya asked, and Buffy nodded, looking away. “Well, if it’ll help, maybe I can make some obscene and sexual gestures in Xander’s direction to throw him off of his game.”

“Whatever helps,” Buffy said, managing a weak smile.

* * * * *

“My head bloody hurts,” Spike said in a low tone as he walked to his work station with Andrew and Xander in tow. “I shouldn’t have had so much to drink last night.”

“If you wouldn’t have taken Buffy’s comments to you so personally, then maybe you wouldn’t have felt compelled to drink half of the liquor in the bar,” Xander replied.

“If you hadn’t left me to go shag Anya, one of our enemies by association, I wouldn’t have kept drinking!” Spike shot back. “You know I drink a lot when I’m alone.”

“Guys, can we start getting ready?” Andrew asked, looking between his two friends. “We only have twenty minutes before this kicks off.”

“Fine,” Spike said, taking a deep breath and beginning to look at the supplies they were given. “So, the plan is still to make a key lime cheesecake?”

“And go to town with the decorations,” Xander agreed, nodding. “Andy and I’ve got that covered. Just make the cheesecake as quickly as possible.”

“Are you sure this is a good idea?” Andrew asked. “I mean, Buffy will be making a cheesecake, too, don’t you think?”

“That’s the point,” Spike replied. “If we both make cheesecakes and I win, then the whole town will know I’m better than her at making them, something she considers to be her specialty.”

“And what if hers is better and we lose?” Andrew asked, crossing his arms.

“Then we hang our heads in shame, leave the building, and get properly snockered,” Spike answered, looking across the room and focusing on Buffy, who was talking to Willow and Anya. “But that’s not going to happen, right?”

“Right,” Xander and Andrew said in unison, even though they were beginning to have doubts.

* * * * *

“Alright, the cheesecake is in the oven and all set,” Buffy said triumphantly, setting a timer. “That’s the quickest I’ve ever whipped one up before.”

“And hopefully it’ll taste like you didn’t rush to get it done,” Anya replied, ignoring the glare Buffy shot at her. “Willow and I have the strawberry filling all set, so once the cheesecake cools, we can put it on top and you can cover it with creamy strawberry frosting.”

“Is the sugar set for me to work with yet?” Buffy asked, looking at a pot on the stove.

“It needs to warm up a bit more, and then you should be able to spin it into twirls,” Willow said. “I can put them on top of the cheesecake once you finish with it.”

“We’ve got more than enough time,” Buffy said, trying to settle her nerves. “We still have about two and a half hours left, don’t we?”

“Want us to make something else?” Willow asked. “An extra perk or something?”

“How about some strawberry-filled cookies?” Buffy asked, and Willow smiled.

“Sure,” she answered. “We can give them to the judges as parting gifts.”

“Great idea,” Buffy said, smiling gratefully when Willow began to gather supplies to make cookie dough. “We might have this in the bag after all.”

“Especially since I think Spike just ruined something he made,” Anya said, causing both Willow and Buffy to look over at Spike, who was throwing his arms up and looking angry.

“I wonder what that’s all about,” Willow said, raising an eyebrow.

“Who cares?” Buffy asked, grinning. “One man’s loss is another man’s… well, a woman’s gain.”

* * * * *

“Damn it!” Spike said loudly, staring at the bowl of cheesecake batter in front of him. “There’s too much sugar in this!”

“It’s alright, man,” Xander said, taking the bowl and disposing of its contents before washing it out quickly. “We can start over.”

“And be set back half an hour?” Spike asked, upset. “Maybe we should do something else.”

“Like what?” Andrew asked. “We’ve been talking about cheesecakes for days and you want to do something else?”

“What other choice do we have?” Spike asked, trying to lower his voice so other competitors wouldn’t hear him. “We can make a simple chocolate cake and decorate it absurdly well so it looks twenty times better than it is. We’ve done it before and we can do it again.”

“It’s risky,” Xander said, sighing. “But I have faith in us to succeed.”

“And Buffy will feel even more inadequate when we kick her ass with a chocolate cake,” Spike replied, beginning to look around at what supplies he had left. “Are you guys with me on this?”

“We’re with you until the end,” Andrew said. “Even if we lose to Buffy.”

“Will you be positive?” Xander asked, nudging Andrew’s arm. “We’re going to win, Andy, and you know it.” Despite the fact he was beginning to believe they’d lose, Andrew nodded and began to help Spike get ready to make a chocolate cake.

Xander looked across the room at Anya and smirked when her eyes settled on his. She blew him a quick kiss before helping Willow put cookie dough onto a cookie sheet. He took a deep breath and turned around to help Spike before realizing what the girls were doing.

“Umm, guys?” he asked quietly. “I don’t think Buffy’s making a cheesecake.”

“What makes you think that?” Spike asked, confused.

“Anya and Willow are making cookies,” Xander answered. “Maybe Buffy’s going to do something creative with cookies instead.”

“Then she’s definitely going to lose,” Spike said, grinning. “Guess my favorite amateur doesn’t realize how ridiculous a cookie creation is.”

“We can make something simpler then, can’t we?” Andrew asked. “If our biggest competitor is just making cookies?”

“Guess so,” Spike agreed, shrugging. “Looks like we’re still in the game.”
 

Chapter 6:

As the minutes flew by and they suddenly had five minutes left to go before the competition ended, both Spike and Buffy put the finishing touches on their creations and hoped to God that they’d beat each other. Willow and Anya quickly made sure all of the cookies were ready and put a generous amount of pink sprinkles on them so they’d match the cheesecake even more.

“How is it going over there?” Willow asked as Buffy put the spun-sugar twirls on top of the cheesecake, arranging them around the top of it into a circular pattern. “Wow, that almost looks hypnotizing.”

“Exactly the effect I was going for,” Buffy answered, finishing up and looking at the cheesecake. “This is possibly the best thing I’ve ever made. Far better than the mini wedding cake I had to make for my final exam in culinary school.”

“I wish I could see what Spike’s crew is making,” Anya said, staring over at the men. “But Andrew’s been blocking it for the last half an hour.”

“I’m not worried,” Buffy said, shrugging. “I’m proud of this, and if it doesn’t win, then oh well.”

“You’d better not be willing to accept defeat, missy!” Anya replied shrilly. “Willow and I worked our asses off, too- we had better win.”

“Don’t you want your stallion to be victorious?” Willow asked, smirking.

“Well, sure, but I’d rather have him be depressed and in need of a good ride or two after this,” Anya said, putting the cookies on a tray and missing the disgusted looks on her friends’ faces.

“Alright, it’s almost time,” Buffy said, taking a deep breath. “Ready for this?”

“Definitely,” Willow said, trying not to sound as nervous as she felt.

* * * * *

“The judges are about to come around,” Xander said quietly as Spike finished putting red-frosting rosettes all over the perimeter of the two-tiered chocolate cake he had made. “That looks good, man.”

“I’m just happy we decided to put a layer of cherries in each tier,” Spike said, smiling. “That’ll make this even more delicious.”

“And the gold-leaf draperies Andrew put on the sides make it look even better,” Xander said, studying it. “It reminds me of something from Gone with the Wind for some reason, but I like it.”

“What?” Spike asked, confused. “Does it look Southern or something?”

“I guess,” Xander said, shrugging. “Either way, it should beat Buffy.”

“Yeah, I damn well hope so,” Spike said, looking across the room at Buffy’s work station, watching as the women crowded around something. “Have either of you seen what she came up with yet?”

“No,” Andrew said, sighing. “I turned around before to look, but Buffy was blocking something.”

“I wonder what it was,” Spike said, raising an eyebrow. “But there’s no way it looks better than this.”

“No, I think this one takes the cake,” Xander said, laughing at his own joke. “Get it? Cake?”

“You’re too lame for your own good sometimes,” Spike mumbled, watching as a group of judges went to the first station, beginning to talk to one of his competitors. “Are you both set for this?”

It was as he asked the question that Xander watched Buffy and Anya move away from what they were hiding from view, practically unveiling the cheesecake to his eyes.

“Umm, guys?” he asked quietly, his eyes widening. “It is just me, or is that a cheesecake?” Spike looked over at the women and felt his jaw slowly drop.

“But… what happened to the cookies?” he asked, confused. “I thought… What’s going on?”

“Looks like she made both,” Andrew said, noticing the tray of cookies Willow picked up. “They might get extra points for making two things.”

“That tricky bitch,” Spike said in a low tone, clenching his jaw. “Why didn’t we make two things?”

“Because we had our hands full enough after you screwed up the cheesecake mix,” Xander answered.

“Shut up,” Spike managed to get out, leaning on the counter in front of him and looking at the cake only inches away from his hands. “Just because she made two desserts doesn’t mean she’ll win. The taste of this cake alone will beat her cheesecake.”

“Not to mention the amazing amount of presentation points we should earn,” Andrew chipped in, hoping to calm Spike down. “I wouldn’t worry.”

“Oh, I’m not,” Spike said, raising his eyes to look over at Buffy again. “She’s not going to win.”

* * * * *

“Oh my god,” one of the judges cooed as she finished sampling the piece of cheesecake she was handed. “I think this is the best thing I’ve ever had in my mouth.”

“I’m so glad you like it,” Buffy replied, grinning. “Have you tried the sugar twirl yet?”

“Is there a hint of strawberry in them?” another judge asked. “Because it was marvelous. Usually I don’t like eating pure sugar, but that was a treat.”

“Would you like a cookie, too?” Anya asked cheerfully, holding up the platter of them. Each judge happily grabbed one and tried them at the same time.

“Dear Lord,” the first judge said, swallowing what she had bitten off. “I must say, Miss Summers, you have definitely proven to us that new pastry chefs have something to teach your predecessors.”

“Thank you,” Buffy said, beaming. “If you’d like to take more cookies with you, please do.” The judges each grabbed a handful and smiled at her before moving on to the next station.

“Did you put drugs in your cookies?” Spike asked, suddenly appearing by them.

“What’re you doing here?” Buffy asked, raising an eyebrow. “Isn’t it against the rules for you to come over here?”

“Not once pictures have been taken of everyone’s work,” he answered, looking at the tray of cookies that Anya was still holding. “Can I grab three of those?”

“Why would I give you a cookie?” Buffy asked, crossing her arms.

“Haven’t you ever heard of sharing, luv?” he asked, and she narrowed her eyes at him. “What? I’d think you would want to show me what you’ve got.”

“Fine,” she replied, motioning for him to take a cookie. “Enjoy.” He took three of them and bit into one, biting back the urge to groan at how good it tasted. “And if you happen to choke on it, I won’t be held accountable for it.”

“Whatever you say,” he murmured, looking at the cookie. “This is just a simple strawberry filling, isn’t it?” She nodded. “Well, I must say, Summers, I’m impressed.” She quirked an eyebrow, tilting her head. “You whipped up something incredibly easy and made it taste like a masterpiece.” He turned on his heel before she realized he was complimenting her.

“Wow,” Willow said quietly. “Did I hear defeat in his voice?”

“Yeah, I think you did,” Anya agreed. “That and a bit of envy.”

“What? No,” Buffy said, shaking her head to clear it of the haze that was forming in her brain. Her friends looked at her and were surprised when she turned around and walked away, going in the same direction as Spike.

* * * * *

When Buffy arrived at Spike’s station, she looked at the chocolate cake in amusement.

“Wow,” she said, smiling. “That looks pretty good, guys.”

“Thanks,” Xander said, surprised that she was suddenly standing next to him. “Spike said yours looked good, too. And thanks for the cookie- it was incredible.”

“Well, if you ever want more, they’re at the shop daily,” she replied. “So, what’s inside of the cake? Is that cherry filling?”

“Yes,” Andrew said, confused when Spike leaned back against a counter and looked down, keeping his gaze averted from Buffy’s. “I think they’re about to announce the winners.”

Willow and Anya walked over to the group as one of the judges went up to a microphone and shuffled some papers.

“This is so exciting!” Willow said, slightly bouncing.

“Yeah,” Buffy agreed, clasping her hands in front of her and wringing them anxiously. “Good luck, Spike.”

“Thanks,” he muttered, not looking at her. Before she could ask him if he was okay, one of the judges cleared her throat and looked around the room.

“First, thank you to everyone who volunteered and participated in this event today,” she said, smiling. “But the time has come to announce this year’s winner of the Best Dessert in Sunnydale Competition.” Everyone in the room quieted down, and Willow grabbed one of Buffy’s hands in hers, squeezing it. “First place goes to… Buffy Summers!”

Buffy’s jaw dropped and tears sprang to her eyes as both Willow and Anya hugged her, trapping her in between them.

“Oh…my…god,” she said slowly, still in shock.

Spike watched her for a long moment before taking a deep breath and storming out of the building.
 

Chapter 7:

Spike went to The Little Green Tavern and sat down on a stool, ordering a beer as soon as the bartender looked in his direction. He buried his face in his hands and took several deep breaths, trying to ignore the anger that was coursing through him.

‘I lost,’ he said to himself. ‘I lost to Buffy.’ His beer appeared in front of him, and he grabbed the glass, practically gulping down the liquid. ‘Not that I deserved to win - her cheesecake looked wonderful and those cookies were to die for- but I’m supposed to be the best chef in town. Me. Not her, a bloody newbie.’

“Thought I’d find you here,” Xander said, appearing beside Spike and sitting down. “We got second place, you know.”

“Sorry I wasn’t there to find out,” Spike muttered, finishing the beer quickly. “Want one? On me.”

“It’s too early in the day to drink,” his friend replied. “Well, for me, at least. Time has no meaning for you when it comes to alcohol.” Spike glared at him. “You never used to be like this, man. Over the last few days, you’ve been drinking as if your life depended on it.” Xander sighed and looked down. “Is this because of Buffy?”

“Why would it be?” Spike asked, raising an eyebrow. “Because she beat me?” Xander nodded. “No, that’s not the reason at all.” Xander studied him, tilting his head. “Fine, that’s part of it.”

“But that only explains why you’re planning on embarking on a drinking binge right now,” the brunette man said. “And last night was about Buffy, too, wasn’t it?” Spike looked away, clenching his jaw. “Guess the girl really does drive you insane.”

“What’s your point, Harris?” Spike asked, looking at his friend once again.

“Maybe you’ve got some underlying feelings for her,” Xander suggested, and Spike scoffed before signaling to the bartender that he needed a refill. “I’m not blind, Spike. There’s been more fire in you since you met her, a fire you’ve never had with Lily.”

“Not following you around that bend, mate,” Spike said, smiling graciously at the bartender when he handed him a new glass of beer.

“Do you truly love Lily?” Xander asked. “With every fiber of your being?” Spike looked at him, confused. “Does the idea of not having her around in the future choke you? Can you really picture yourself marrying her?”

“I’d tread very lightly, whelp,” Spike replied in a low tone. “You’re talking about my fiancé.”

“Yeah, and I damn well have the right to, being best man and all,” Xander said, crossing his arms. “Spike, you’ve been suspicious of Lily for a while now.” Spike gripped the glass in his hand so tightly that he thought it might shatter. “What if I told you I’ve been suspecting things, too?”

“Don’t you dare,” Spike said sternly, standing up. “Don’t sit there and try to convince me to leave Lily and have a go with Buffy.”

“Who said I was going to?” Xander asked, smirking slightly. “The Lily thing, yes, but I wasn’t going to mention Buffy. You did that all on your own, buddy.” Spike slapped money down on the bar and scowled at Xander before storming out of the bar.

Xander smiled to himself and grabbed Spike’s glass, drinking from it.

‘Looks like I might not be best man for a while,’ he thought.

* * * * *

When Spike arrived at his apartment, he was stunned to see Lily sitting on his couch, waiting for him. He put down his keys and raised an eyebrow, tensing up as she approached him and took his hands in hers.

“I thought we weren’t meeting up until later,” he said quietly.

“I think we need to talk,” she replied, looking into his eyes. “I can’t marry you.” Spike felt a wave of nausea go through him before he pulled his hands away from hers, taking a step back.

“Why not?” he asked in a choked voice, doing everything in his power to not tear up.

“I’m in love with someone else,” she said, looking away.

“Is it someone I know?” he asked, surprised when she nodded. “Who?”

“Charles Gunn,” she said, her eyes returning to lock with his.

“My bartender?” he asked loudly. “Since when?”

“Come on, Spike- wasn’t it obvious?” she asked. “You saw him and I at the bar just last week.” He remembered it after a moment and closed his eyes, clenching his fists. “I’m sorry, Spike, but it just wasn’t working for us.”

“How can you say that?” he asked, upset. “Things were going great for us.”

“No, they weren’t,” she said calmly. “You’ve been spending way too much time at the restaurant over the last couple of months- we hardly see each other.”

“Do you want to see the restaurant run itself into the ground?” Spike asked sharply. “It was your father’s place long before it was ever mine.”

“And I’m sure Dad loves to see how much it’s flourished since you took ownership of it,” Lily began, sighing. “But I’m not going to stay with you just for Chantarelle’s.”

“I can’t believe you’re doing this to me,” Spike said, looking away in an attempt to reign in his anger. “On today of all days.”

“I’m sorry,” Lily said, walking to the door. “Oh yeah.” She handed him the key he had given her to his apartment. “Maybe you can give it to someone you’ll be willing to take time off of work for.” He watched her go before throwing the key across the apartment and covering his face in his hands, stopping himself from screaming.

“Son of a bitch!” he shouted angrily, grabbing his keys and leaving the apartment.

* * * * *

Buffy walked into The Little Green Tavern that night and was greeted by Rupert Giles, who congratulated her on winning the competition. While she was thanking him and going into detail about how the day had went for her, she noticed a man at the bar who was ordering a beer from the bartender. She sighed as she realized who it was.

“If you’ll excuse me, Giles, I see a sore loser at the bar,” she said, giving him a sheepish smile before walking over to the man and sitting beside him. “Hello, Spike.”

“Well, if it isn’t Miss High and Mighty,” he snarled. “Need someone to knock you off your throne?” She could smell the alcohol radiating off of him and grabbed his arm.

“Come on, blondie- let’s get you home,” she said, pulling him up to stand as Spike put money down on the bar to pay off his tab.

“Not bloody likely,” he replied, trying to pull away from her but not succeeding. “Let me go!”

“It’s time to sober you up,” she said, leading him towards the door and out into the night air. “Keys, please.”

“Why? So you can drive me insane?” he asked, glaring at her. “Already done that, Goldilocks.”

“I’m taking you home,” she said, pleased when he gave her his set of keys. “We’ll leave your car here for the night- you can get it tomorrow if your hangover doesn’t keep you incapacitated all day.”

“Whatever you say, princess,” he mumbled, following her towards her car. “Why are you helping me?”

“It’s the least I can do,” she said, sighing. “After a long day like today.”

“You don’t even know the half of it,” he replied, becoming angry as he thought about Lily.

“No, I suppose I don’t,” she said, looking at him. “But I’ll listen if you need to rant.”

“Yeah?” he asked, surprised when she gave him a sincere smile.

“Yeah.”
 

Chapter 8- Until Further Notice

Buffy found herself sitting on Spike’s couch half an hour later, watching him take a couple of aspirins before drinking a whole glass of water.

“Thanks,” he said quietly, sitting on a chair across from her and resting his head against the back of it. “Today has been the worst day of my entire life.”

“For some reason, I don’t think losing to me is the reason you got plastered,” she replied, studying him. “And if it is, you’re being a bit overdramatic.”

“My fiancé left me,” he said, ignoring what she had said. “For a bartender at my restaurant.” He watched as her face fell, looking apologetic.

“I’m so sorry,” she said. “I can’t imagine how heartbreaking that must be.”

“Now you know why I was trying to drown myself in beer,” he replied, looking up at the ceiling. “She was the world to me.” He paused. “For a while, at least.”

“How did you meet her?” she asked curiously, surprised when he smiled.

“I had applied to work as head chef at Chantarelle’s, which originally was her father’s place,” he said. “I got the job, met her, and fell in love.”

“When did you buy the place from her dad?” she asked, trying to keep him engaged in conversation.

“Couple years ago,” he said, shrugging. “He wanted to retire and figured I’d be a good person to replace him.” He grinned at the memories that flooded his brain. “We got insanely drunk one night, and he only requested that I pay him one dollar.” She raised an eyebrow. “He said that he thought he owed me more for taking his daughter off of his hands.”

“Doesn’t sound like too nice of a guy,” she replied.

“No, he isn’t,” he agreed. “A right bastard, actually. Everyone in that family is cruel and heartless.” He looked at her. “But here I am, talking to the enemy like she’s my bloody therapist.”

“I offered my services before- might as well use them,” she said, clasping her hands on her lap.

“Sick of talking about me,” he replied. “Your turn.” She quirked an eyebrow. “Why’d you become a pastry chef?”

“My mom taught me how to make a lot of cakes and cookies when I was a kid,” she said, smiling. “It always interested me, so I decided it would probably be the best career choice I could make. I went to culinary school, graduated at the top of my class, and bought the shop.”

“Is it named after your mum?” he asked, and she nodded. “That’s nice of you.”

“Well, I owed it to her,” she said, looking down. “It opened a week before she died.” He frowned. “A brain aneurysm.”

“I’m sorry,” he said genuinely, and she nodded, not willing to look at him, more fixated on her hands. “You’re a brave girl to open a shop like that fresh out of culinary school.” She raised her eyes to his, surprised by the compliment. “Not a lot of people your age could’ve done something like that.”

“You act as if you’re so much older than me,” she said, smirking. “You’re what, 30?”

“Twenty-eight, thank you very much,” he replied sharply before pausing. “Do I really look thirty to you?”

“It was just an estimate,” she said, shrugging. “For all I know, you could be forty or fifty- you just look young.”

“I don’t know if I should be insulted by that or not,” he said, standing up. “Would probably help if the room wasn’t spinning.” She got up and walked over to him, grabbing his arm gently. “What’re you doing?”

“Making sure you make it to your room and don’t pass out midway,” she answered.

“I usually don’t take girls to my room until the third date,” he joked, happy when she giggled beside him. “But I’m willing to make an exception this once.”

“Great, you’re a perverted drunk,” she said, leading him down a hallway and looking around before locating his bedroom.

“No, just quite horny,” he said, stumbling into his room and flopping onto his bed. “Feel like a little rough and tumble, pet?”

“The next time I see you, I’ll be reminding you of this,” she said, smirking at him. “Just a warning.”

“Idle threat, kitten,” he replied, yawning. “Fine, I’ll be a good little lad and nod off.”

“Good,” she said, watching him get under his blankets. “Not going to change into something comfortable?”

“I figured I’d wait until you left to strip down,” he said, looking at her. “I usually sleep naked, ducks.” She felt her cheeks blushing. “But if you want to see what I’ve got, I’ll gladly show you.”

“No thanks,” she said quickly, walking away from his room and ignoring the loud chuckling she heard as she left the apartment.

* * * * *

The next morning, Buffy went to the front display case in Joyce’s Pastry Shop and grabbed half a dozen jelly-filled cookies, along with a few peanut butter and chocolate chip ones. Willow watched her friend curiously as she put them in a little plastic bag and tied them off with ribbon.

“Those for a special someone?” she asked, causing Buffy to jump slightly in surprise. “Didn’t mean to scare you, sorry. I let myself in through the back. Anya’s taking the day off- she’s spending the day with Xander, a man who needs his wounds licked.”

“Alright,” Buffy said, shrugging. “We don’t need to be open that long today. I think we both could use a break.” Willow raised an eyebrow, not used to Buffy being so carefree and flexible with their hours. “Do you mind if I go across town for a few minutes?”

“To deliver those to Spike?” Willow asked, smirking when Buffy’s jaw dropped. “I know you’re starting to like him, even though he’s technically your nemesis.”

“Is it that obvious?” the blonde asked, smiling when Willow nodded vigorously. “Fine. Yes, I’m going to give these to Spike. Have a problem with that?”

“No,” Willow said. “Just want to see you be happy.” Buffy smiled at her before grabbing her car keys and leaving.

‘And if he hurts her, I’ll beat him to death with a shovel,’ the redhead thought to herself.

Buffy got in her car and drove to Chantarelle’s, parking in front of the building and going to the front door. She paused when she noticed that it was completely dark inside before looking at a sign that had been taped to the door.

Closed Until Further Notice

“Uh oh,” she said quietly, staring at it in shock.
 

Chapter 9:

After a week of trying to contact Spike without any luck, Buffy was surprised when he walked into Joyce’s one afternoon. She studied him for a long while, noticing how nervous he seemed as he shoved his hands in his pockets.

“Hey,” she said quietly, happy when Willow and Anya walked into the back, leaving them alone.

“Hi, Buffy,” he replied, giving her a small smile. “How’ve you been?”

“Fine, and you?” she asked, leaning back against a counter. “I saw that you shut down Chantarelle’s.” He nodded, looking down. “Permanently?”

“I’ve decided to change the name,” he said. “Obviously, I don’t associate anything good with it anymore.” She nodded, understanding. “Once I figure out a new name, I’ll reopen it.”

“Good,” she replied. “I’d hate to see you close it forever. It’s a nice place.”

“I’m happy you feel that way,” he said, taking a deep breath. “Because I’d like to offer you a job there.” She felt her jaw drop as she let his words sink in. “I mean, I know you usually only work here during the day, so I thought maybe you’d like an evening job, too. It wouldn’t be every day- you could come in like three times a week. I’d love to have you be in charge of desserts.”

“I could make stuff here and deliver it there,” she replied, still stunned. “I wouldn’t need to actually work there.” He fought back the urge to frown, inwardly wanting to be around her as much as possible without having to admit that he was beginning to have feelings for her.

“I guess that’s true,” he said. “But wouldn’t it be nicer to have two incomes?” She smiled slightly and looked down.

“I’m really flattered by your offer, Spike, but I’m afraid I’d rather not take it,” she said. “I’ll gladly deliver cakes and what-not to your restaurant, but it’s probably best if I don’t work with you. Our personalities in the workplace would undoubtedly lead to volatile chaos.”

“Yeah, I suppose you’re right,” he said, looking away and sighing. “Worth a try to ask, though.”

“Well, I wasn’t lying when I said I’m flattered,” she replied, looking at him. “It means a lot, coming from you.”

“Why? Because you and I couldn’t stand the sight of each other before the competition?” he joked, and she nodded, smiling. “Well, what’s done is done- you beat me, good and proper.”

“Well, if it’s any consolation, I think you scored more presentation points for your chocolate cake,” she said. “It was beautiful. I couldn’t believe men had made it, to be honest.”

“Are you insulting my masculinity?” he asked, frowning when she giggled. “I screwed up the cheesecake batter- if I would’ve had sufficient time to redo it and make a cheesecake, I would’ve kicked your ass, luv.”

“Yeah?” she asked, grinning. “Care to make a wager?”

“Gladly,” he said, leaning on the counter and locking eyes with her. “We’ll each make a cake and have our friends judge them, and if I win, you have to work for me.”

“Your terms are acceptable,” she replied, crossing her arms. “And if I win, you have to name the new restaurant after me.” He raised an eyebrow and studied her for a moment before extending his hand to her. “Deal?”

“Deal,” he said, smiling when she shook his hand. “Tonight, eight o’clock. Can your kitchen here handle both of us cooking?”

“Promise not to start a food-fight?” she asked, and he chuckled.

“Wouldn’t mind seeing you covered in whipped cream,” he said, laughing harder when she narrowed her eyes at him. “I promise to be a good boy.”

“Good,” she said. “Because if you don’t, I’ll pour chocolate all over you.”

“And lick it off?” he asked, biting his bottom lip to keep from smirking as he leered at her. She leaned on the counter, their mouths now inches apart.

“What if I did?” she teased suggestively, watching as he gulped. “Would that make you happy?”

“God yes,” he answered, his eyes widening when he realized what he had said. “Wait, no… You tricked me.”

“How?” she asked, still inwardly surprised by his answer.

“By batting those pretty eyelashes at me and sounding like a professional trollop,” he answered. She grabbed a cookie and chucked it at him, trying not to smile when he caught it and bit into it. “You know the key to my heart, Miss Summers.”

“Formalities will get you nowhere, my friend,” she said, smiling slightly.

“We’re friends now?” he asked, tilting his head and returning her smile.

“I drove your stubborn ass home last week and dealt with your advances- I’d say that makes us friends,” she answered.

“Well, that’s something,” he said, bowing his head slightly before going to the door. “Remember- eight o’clock.”

“Count on it,” she said, watching him open the door. “I can’t wait to kick your butt again.”

“Dream on, little girl,” he said, looking at her once more before leaving.

She watched him go before taking a deep breath and walking into the back part of the building, seeing Anya and Willow making truffles on a counter.

“How much of that did you hear?” Buffy asked curiously, not surprised to see them both look guilty. “Are you both willing to be here tonight?”

“And watch you win twice in two weeks?” Anya asked, smirking. “Of course.”

“Are you sure this is a good idea?” Willow asked. “I mean, you could be working for Spike.”

“And I could have a restaurant named after me,” Buffy replied, shrugging. “Stay optimistic, Will.”

“I’m trying,” the redhead said. “But I’m also worried.”

“I’m not,” Buffy said, hopping up to sit on an adjacent counter. “Because another victory will be oh so sweet.”

‘There’s no way he’s going to beat me,’ she thought, clasping her hands together and smiling to herself.

* * * * *

After calling Xander and Andrew to invite them to Joyce’s for the mini-competition, Spike lay down on his bed and looked up at the ceiling, remembering the conversation he had with Buffy earlier, specifically the parts about whipped cream and chocolate.

‘Buffy completely nude, covered only in whipped cream,’ he thought, groaning as he unzipped his jeans and released his erection, one that had been present practically ever since he left Joyce’s. He began slowly stroking it as his mind conjured up images of Buffy spread out on a counter, writhing beneath him as he pumped inside of her. His hand wrapped around his cock as he began seeking a release, his actions becoming quicker as more images assaulted him.

“I’m going to make you want me, Buffy,” he ground out as he pictured her inner walls spasming around his manhood, in the throes of an orgasm. Spike’s hips bucked up more as he began coming from his actions, groaning as a sense of extreme satisfaction coursed through him. He continued panting, trying to catch his breath. “You’ll be mine before the week is over.”
 

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