Chapter 1:

Buffy sat on her window-seat, watching as droplets of water rolled down the smooth pane of glass and as the world surrounding her was pelted by the torrent of rain that was falling from the sky.

‘There’s nothing to do,’ she thought, wishing the day would end already. ‘Everyone’s out of town, and I’m stuck here, doing absolutely nothing.’ She sighed and brought her knees up to her chin. ‘Why does my life suck so much?’

She watched as a black car sped down by, seemingly oblivious to the puddles that were beginning to flood the street.

‘I wish I had a car,’ she thought. ‘Would get me out of here and far away from this place. Or, better yet, Dad could buy me a car before he goes back to L.A. and leaves me to live on my own.’ She sighed. ‘But even then, I doubt my life would perk up at all.’ It was as she focused on the car once again that she realized it was familiar. ‘Why am I not surprised? Of course, Spike Giles is out and about when there are flood warnings all across the county. What a moron.’ She stood up and frowned.

“But I still envy him,” she said quietly as she walked out of her bedroom.

When the phone rang a moment later, Buffy excitedly ran to pick it up. “Hello?”

“Hey, honey,” Hank Summers said, and Buffy’s mood instantly dropped. “Is there any way you can make it to the gallery tonight? I’m still getting acquainted to the set-up, and I’d really appreciate it if you came by.”

“How am I supposed to get there?” she asked, crossing her arms. “I don’t have a car, none of my friends are around, and you’re already there.”

“I’ll send someone to get you,” he replied. “Within the next hour, William should be there.” Before she could protest, he hung up, causing her to slam the phone down.

‘I’d rather stab myself with a pen,’ she thought absently as she returned to her bedroom to get dressed.

* * *

Spike Giles sped down Revello Drive, talking on his cell phone to his current girlfriend Harmony Kendall.

“I already told you that I’m not stopping by,” he said, frustrated. “I’m supposed to be at the gallery all night tonight.”

“I thought you said Hank was in charge now,” Harmony replied. “Shouldn’t he be there all night instead of you?”

“Hank doesn’t know anything about running an art gallery,” Spike said, stopping at a red light. “I offered to help out as much as I could after Joyce died- it’s the least I can do. She was practically a mother to me, Harm.”

“I know,” she said, sighing. “Fine, go work until midnight. But if you leave early, call me. You know how much I hate being alone at night.”

“Will do,” he lied, fully knowing that even if he left the gallery early, he wasn’t going to call her. “Bye, pet.” He hung up and tossed his phone aside after turning it off.

‘Stupid bint,’ he thought, pulling up in front of the art gallery. ‘I should’ve gotten out of that relationship a long time ago.’ He exited his car and was drenched by the time he walked through the door of the building. ‘Perfect start to a long night.’

“Hello, William,” Hank said as he saw Spike walk in. Spike instantly cringed at the formality of Hank’s tone.

‘But he’s the boss now, and if he refuses to call me Spike, then I guess I don’t really have a choice,’ he thought.

“Sorry I’m a couple of minutes late,” he apologized, hoping he’d dry off quickly as he felt water trickling down the back of his neck.

“I’m surprised you got here in one piece,” Hank replied, smiling. “It looks pretty dangerous out there.”

“It’s a bloody nightmare,” Spike affirmed.

“Speaking of nightmares,” Hank began. “I wouldn’t normally ask this of anyone, but I’ve got a phone conference in about ten minutes, so I can’t do it myself.”

“What is it?” Spike asked, hoping he could be of some help.

‘Always a good idea to be an ally to your boss,’ he thought. ‘Especially if you need your job and usually enjoy it.’

“Would you be willing to pick up Buffy?” Hank asked, and Spike tensed up, indiscreetly clenching his fists. “I’ll even pay you extra.”

“Fine,” Spike said, deciding extra money was a good thing, even if it was for driving his boss’ bitch of a daughter. “I’ll be back in twenty minutes.” Hank gave him a grateful smile before he turned and went to his office. Spike took a deep breath and walked back outside, stopping at his car door and letting the warm rain beat down on him. “Today just keeps getting better and better,” he said sarcastically, clenching his jaw as he wrenched his car door open.

* * *

When she saw Spike’s car pull up in the driveway, she grabbed her keys and sprinted outside, letting herself into his car. He looked at her and tried not to notice how her wet shirt was clinging to her upper body.

‘Don’t even think about it, mate,’ he berated himself as he began to back down the driveway. ‘This chit has never been nice to you, especially as of late. Don’t even think of finding her attractive right now.’

“Sorry you had to come and get me,” she said, offering a meager olive branch as she looked outside. “I can’t imagine driving around when it’s like this outside.”

“It’s fine,” he replied, an edge to his voice. She looked down and nodded slightly.

“So, how’ve you been?” she asked quietly. “I haven’t seen you since the day of the funeral.”

“I’ve been around,” he answered sternly. “Not much to tell.” She looked at him and was about to speak, but he cut her off. “If you’re going to apologize, don’t. I don’t want to hear it.”

“This isn’t just about you, as much as you’d like it to be,” she replied firmly. “I’m sorry for what happened, Spike.” He gripped the wheel tighter.

“I don’t want to talk about it,” he said, focusing on the road.

“I don’t really, either, but I wanted to say I’m sorry,” she said, looking out the window. “It was a big mistake, we were both sad- we needed comfort and turned to each other for it. It was a bad call on both of our parts.”

“Yeah, it really was,” he agreed, not willing to look at her. “We both knew that sleeping together was going to change everything.”
 

Chapter 2:
When they arrived at the gallery, Buffy was more than happy to get away from Spike and the awkward silence she endured in the car. She walked into the building, him in tow, and saw her dad walking around, on the phone. She decided to go to her mom’s old office, now her father’s, to patiently wait until he was done and needed her.

‘Any excuse to stay away from Spike is good,’ she thought. ‘And why did it have to be him? Isn’t Fred working tonight? Maybe this is fate’s way of really sticking it to me for being so stupid before.’ She looked outside, focusing on the rain again. ‘If someone would’ve told me last year that my mom was going to die and that I was going to sleep with Spike the night of the funeral, I would’ve told them they were insane.’ She sighed. ‘But unfortunately, they would’ve turned out to be right.’

Spike aimlessly walked around the main part of the gallery, trying not to think about the blonde girl who was sitting in Hank’s office.

‘You knew damn well that sleeping with her was a bad idea,’ he thought, watching her as she stared outside. ‘And besides the fact that she’s the boss’ daughter, she’s only 18. You’re a decade older than her, you ponce. You don’t do stuff like that, so why the bloody hell did you let yourself shag her? And don’t use the excuse that you were depressed because we all know that’s not completely the reason.’ He sighed and went into the back room, wishing he could stop thinking about her.

Buffy saw him go to the storage room and figured it would be safe to leave the office. She instantly walked into Fred, who was carrying a box filled with files and sheets of paper.

“Sorry,” Buffy apologized sincerely, looking at the brunette woman sadly. “Didn’t see you there.”

“You seemed pretty deep in thought,” Fred replied, smiling softly. “Everything alright?” Before Buffy could answer, Fred frowned and her shoulders slumped. “I’m sorry, that’s such a dumb question. Your mom just died- I’m sure you’re not bursting with joy.”

“I’m fine,” Buffy said, smiling slightly. “It’s been a month, Fred. Things are starting to get better for me, honestly.”

“I heard you’re dating Lindsey McDonald,” Fred said, and Buffy nodded. “Congratulations. He’s quite the catch, isn’t he?”

“Yeah, he’s great,” Buffy replied quietly, looking down, missing the weird look Fred gave her.

“If you two are done catching up on gossip, I could use your help,” Spike said, appearing in the back room’s doorway, having heard all of their conversation and strangely upset that Buffy was dating someone.

‘But what do you expect? She’s still a kid, Spike- she’s going to date anyone she wants to and whenever she wants to,’ he thought, looking at her for a moment before looking away.

“What do you need help with?” Hank asked, walking over to them after hanging up the phone.

“I found a shipment that hasn’t been opened yet,” Spike answered. “I thought you’d probably like to see it, along with helping me open it.” Hank nodded and followed Spike into the storage room.

“What’s his problem?” Fred asked quietly, looking at Buffy. “He’s been in a foul mood for weeks now.”

“I have no idea,” Buffy answered, even though she knew exactly why he was in a bad mood.

‘Because of me.’

* * *

After Fred went home at nine and Hank had to leave for a date with his girlfriend Lilah, Buffy sat in the office, checking her e-mail, while Spike filled out orders for shipments. Hank had arranged for Spike to drive her home, even though she planned on walking, downpour or not. Her plan was to leave as soon as she finished writing an e-mail to her best friend Willow, but that changed when the power went out and thunder clapped loudly outside. She swore quietly and blindly opened a desk drawer, managing to find the flashlight she knew that her mother had stored there. She turned it on and navigated her way out of the office, watching as Spike walked out of the back room, his lighter lit and casting a soft glow over him.

“We should probably head out,” Spike said. “No sense in sticking around if the electricity is out.”

“Yeah, you’re probably right,” she agreed, following him to the door. They left the gallery, and he locked up behind them, cursing the rain as it seemed to fall faster than it had been before. “I’ll see you around.” He stared at her as she turned on her heel and began to walk down the sidewalk, away from him.

“What are you doing?” he asked loudly, and she turned around to look at him.

“What does it look like I’m doing?” she asked, crossing her arms. “I’m walking home.”

“Like hell you are,” he said, stalking towards her and grabbing her arm. “I’m driving you home.”

“No thanks,” she replied, trying to pull away from him but not succeeding. “I don’t feel like dying in a car accident with you, Spike.”

“And you think a car could see a pedestrian crossing the street when it’s raining like this?” he asked sharply, opening the car door for her. “Not a bloody chance, so get in.” She frowned but obeyed him, getting in and shutting the door. He quickly got in on his side and started the car. “Besides, you’d probably get a cold or something if you walked home in the rain.”

“I would think that you’d be happy if I got pneumonia and died,” she replied quietly, looking out the window. He looked at her, an eyebrow raised.

“You know that’s not true,” he said, turning the heaters on.

“No, I don’t know that,” she said, looking at him. “I’m not sure about anything when it comes to you. Not anymore.” He looked at her. “Just take me home, Spike.”

“Whatever you say, princess,” he replied, pulling away from the curb.

“Why do you say stuff like that?” she asked sternly, fighting off a chill that ran through her as cold air hit her for a second before it became warm. “Like calling me ‘princess’ in such a negative tone? I mean, I know you can be majorly condescending sometimes, but calling me something like ‘princess’ really drives me nuts.”

“That’s why I call you it,” he replied, smirking as she glared at him. “I enjoy pissing you off.”

“I can tell,” she mumbled, looking outside again. He got to a stop sign and reached into the backseat, grabbing a hooded sweatshirt he had left there.

“Here, you can put this on,” he said, handing it to her. “You look like you’re freezing.” She took it from him graciously and began to pull it on as she felt his hand grab her wrist. She looked at him and saw that he was looking at her stomach, which was now exposed from her raising her arms to slide on the sweatshirt. “Do you know you have bruises all across your skin?” She quickly pulled on the hoodie and willed herself not to look at him.

“Yeah,” she answered. “It’s nothing.” He was about to speak, but she looked at him with a fierce expression. “Don’t say anything- just drive me home.” He clenched his jaw and nodded, arriving at her house minutes later. Before he could say something, she got out of his car and bolted inside the dark house, still wearing his sweatshirt.

“What is she hiding from me?” he asked himself, becoming even more worried about her than he had been earlier that evening.
 

Chapter 3:

Buffy lit all of the candles she could find in her house before changing into dry clothes and blow-drying her hair. She looked at herself in the mirror and frowned before lifting the hem of her shirt and looking at the bruises that littered her abdomen. She heard the doorbell ring and carefully walked downstairs, opening the door to reveal Spike. She raised an eyebrow.

“What’re you doing?” she asked, letting him walk past her into the house. “I thought you went home.”

“I did,” he said, looking at her. “And realized it was a bad idea, so I came back.” She looked down. “Where’d you get those bruises from, Buffy?” She looked at him, tilting her head.

“Why do you care?” she asked neutrally.

“Because if someone is hurting you, I want to help,” he said, crossing his arms.

“I don’t want your help,” she replied, walking towards her kitchen. He followed her, becoming angrier every step. “I’m fine, Spike. It’s nothing I can’t handle.”

“Right, that’s why your stomach looks like it was someone’s punching bag,” he said sharply. She grimaced at the thought. “Who did that to you?”

“Go home, Spike,” she said, turning around to face him. “I don’t want you here, and I especially don’t want you butting into my life or coming over to attack me about some bruises you saw on me. I bruise easily- let it go.”

“I’m not letting something like this go!” he said loudly, noticing that she flinched. “Tell me who hit you.”

“Since when do you care about anything that doesn’t involve you?” she asked, looking away. “It’s always been about you, Spike. What Spike wants, what Spike feels, what annoys Spike- you’ve never cared about anything but yourself.” He clenched his jaw.

“I care what happens to you,” he admitted. “I don’t know why, considering you’re a bloody bitch to me all of the time, but I care about you.” She looked at him. “So if someone is hurting you, I want to know who it is.”

“Sweet sentiments,” she said quietly, looking down. “But I meant it when I said that it’s nothing.”

“Why won’t you tell me?” he asked, looking at her.

“Why should I confide in someone who has never shown concern for me before?” she asked.

“Because I care now and want to help you,” he replied firmly. “Let me help you, Buffy.”

“Go home,” she said again, looking at him with fire in her eyes. “Please.” He hesitated before nodding and storming out of the house. She waited until the door slammed shut to let the tears that were forming in her eyes fall.

* * *

When she woke up the next morning, she was happy to find out that the electricity was back on. She hopped in the shower and exited the bathroom to hear the phone ringing. She picked it up and sat on her bed. “Hello?”

“Hi, Buffy,” her dad said, and she raised an eyebrow.

‘Didn’t he come home last night?’ she asked herself before making a face. ‘Eww, I totally don’t want to know.’

“How did last night go?” Hank asked. “I assume you came home after the power went out, right?”

“Yes, we left,” she answered. “Not too much to do when you can’t see anything.” He laughed.

“Good point,” he replied. “I’m going to come home pretty soon and was wondering if you wanted to come back to the gallery today to help me figure out some odds and ends.”

“Sure,” she said, realizing that she didn’t really have anything to do and hoping that Spike had the day off.

“Great,” he replied. “I’ll see you in less than a half an hour.” She hung up the phone and pulled clothes out of her closet before the phone rang again.

‘If it’s Dad saying he’s going to be a little late, I don’t want to hear it,’ she thought as she crossed her room to grab the phone. ‘I don’t need to know anything about his little trysts with Lilah.’

“Hello?” she asked, returning to her closet with the cordless phone in her hand.

“Hello, gorgeous,” Lindsey said, causing Buffy to tense up and stand straighter.

“What do you want?” she asked, hoping she didn’t sound afraid. “I thought we agreed that it’s over between us.”

“Is that really what you want, baby?” he asked. “For us to be over?”

“Yes,” she answered sternly. “I don’t want to be your girlfriend anymore, Lindsey.”

“Weren’t we good together, Buffy?” he asked. “Didn’t I make you happy?” She clenched her jaw. “I treated you well, didn’t I?”

“I still have evidence from the last time you ‘treated me well’,” she replied, becoming angry.

“You know I didn’t mean to hurt you,” he said, and for a second, she almost believed him. “I told you how sorry I was for hitting you. I never intended to do that to you.”

“Why are you calling?” she asked, choosing to ignore what he had said to her.

“Because I want to see you again,” he replied. “I miss you, sweetheart. Come out tonight with me.”

“I’m working,” she said, grabbing jeans and a T-shirt. “And I don’t feel like getting punched around, thanks.”

“Buffy, you have to believe me- I didn’t mean to hit you,” he said sadly. “I really like you. You know that, right?”

“I have to go,” she said, disconnecting the call instantly and tossing the phone onto her bed. “Stupid bastard.” She pulled on her clothes and walked downstairs just as her father walked through the door.

“Ready for the long day ahead?” he asked cheerfully, and she took a deep breath before nodding. “Great! Between the three of us, we should get a lot accomplished.”

“‘The three of us’?” she asked, raising an eyebrow. “Who is joining us?”

“William,” he answered, walking outside again. She groaned in frustration before following him.

‘Could today get any worse?’ she asked herself as she shut the door behind her.
 

Chapter 4:

As it turned out, her day could get far worse. A ceramic statue had fallen off of its pedestal when she accidentally bumped into it, falling and smacking against her foot before rolling to the ground and chipping.

“Good job, Goldilocks,” Spike said as he walked past her, carrying a box. “I’m sure dear old dad will love to see that.” She shot him a look before picking up the statue and looking it over.

“He won’t notice,” she said quietly, putting it back on display and going to the office to answer the phone. “Hello?”

“Hey, Buffy,” Lilah said, making Buffy cringe.

‘She drives me insane more than Spike does,’ she thought.

“Hello, Lilah,” Buffy replied, trying to sound cordial. “What can I do for you?”

“Can you tell your dad that he left his watch here last night?” she asked. “He called before to ask if I had seen it, and I just found it on the bed.” Buffy made a face and shook her head.

“Sure, I’ll go tell him,” she replied. “Have a good day, Lilah.” She hung up the phone and went to give her father the message before going into the back room to try to find a shipment of Greek amphorae. Spike walked in and closed the door behind him.

“Was it Hank?” he asked, looking at her. She raised an eyebrow.

“What’re you talking about?” she asked, confused.

“Was he the one who hit you?” he asked, crossing his arms. She shook her head and kept looking through crates and boxes. “Is it Lindsey?”

“Is it your business?” she asked, not looking at him as she cut open a box. He walked over to her and put his hand on her shoulder. She tensed up and looked at him. “What’re you doing?”

“Talk to me,” he said, looking at her sadly. “I want to help you- give me the chance.”

“There’s nothing for you to do,” she replied, looking away. “I’m not with Lindsey anymore. He hit me once, I dumped him- case closed.”

“And you think you’re the only girl he’s ever physically hurt? You think that he won’t do it again to someone else? Don’t be naïve, luv,” he said firmly. “You should go to the police.”

“I don’t want to talk about this,” she said, heading to the door, but he grabbed her arm and turned her around to face him. “Let me go.”

“I know you hate me, but believe me when I say that I care about you and want to help,” he said. “If I ever see that ponce, I’m going to have a little chat with him.”

“And if you lay a finger on him, we’re going to have a confrontation,” she replied sharply, breaking away from him and walking into her father’s office, slamming the door and locking it.

“Bloody hell,” he said quietly, running a hand through his hair and sighing.

* * *

While Spike and Buffy worked on setting up things in the gallery, on opposite sides of the room, Hank walked in and looked at both of them, smiling.

“So, whom is everyone taking to the Summers Gallery gala next week?” he asked. Buffy froze and looked at him.

“I thought it was canceled this year,” she said. “Since Mom…”

“It’ll be in memory of her,” Hank said, sitting on a bench. “I think she’d want us to continue the tradition of a gala every June.” Spike nodded, looking at his boss. “So, who are you taking, William?”

“Probably my girlfriend,” he answered, quickly choosing not to look at Buffy to see her reaction.

“You’re still dating Harmony?” she asked, surprised, and he nodded. “Wow, can’t say I expected that.”

“Are you bringing your new boyfriend?” Hank asked his daughter, and she shrugged. “I’d like to meet this Lindsey fellow.”

“Me, too,” Spike agreed, looking at her sternly. She frowned and sighed.

“I don’t know- I’ll see if he wants to go or not,” she replied, heading towards the back room. Hank looked at Spike.

“Is she alright?” he asked, and Spike shrugged. “She’s been acting very odd for a while, and I have a feeling it’s not just because of Joyce.”

“She’s a teenager- they always act odd,” Spike said before following her into the storage room.

* * *

“You’re not actually going to invite him, are you?” Spike asked as he closed the door behind him.

“Maybe, maybe not,” she answered, busying herself with a folder she found lying out.

“I was serious before about talking to him if I saw him,” Spike said, crossing his arms.

“And I was serious about confronting you if you did,” she replied, looking at him. “It’s not your business, Spike, and I already told you that I handled it.”

“Why are you being so bloody stubborn?” he asked, angry. “Do you not understand that he might’ve hurt girls before you and that he might in the future, also?”

“Yes, I know that,” she answered, sitting down on a chair. “But I don’t want you involving yourself in my private life. I let you in on it once and look how that turned out.”

“I think it turned out pretty well, actually,” he replied, slightly smirking before becoming serious again. “Buffy-”

“Why are you still dating Harmony?” she asked, cutting him off. “I thought you said that night that you were done with her.”

“I thought I was,” he answered, looking down. “I just haven’t gotten around to dumping her yet.” He paused. “If circumstances were different between us, Buffy, I’d leave her for you in a heartbeat.” She looked at him, stunned. “But they’re not, and what happened that night won’t ever happen again. It was a privilege to be with you for one night only, but it’s in the past and I’m over it.”

‘You’re such a liar,’ he said to himself.

“I thought I told you that I never wanted to talk about what happened,” she said, standing up. “We both made mistakes, and it’s done, isn’t it?” He nodded. “So stop bringing it up. I’ve already written it off as temporary insanity.” He looked at her.

“Right,” he said, even though he didn’t agree with her at all. “When did you start dating Lindsey?”

“A week after Mom died,” she answered, looking away. He raised an eyebrow.

“Why? I thought he wasn’t even on your radar,” he pointed out. “And wasn’t he kind of a jerk to you before?”

“Yeah, but apparently I started to like jerks around that time,” she said, putting the folder away in a file cabinet.

“Why did you start dating him?” Spike asked curiously, and she looked at him.

“To take my mind off of you.”
 

Chapter 5:

That night, Buffy decided to head to the Bronze to get away from the gallery and all of the thoughts that were plaguing her. She went to the bar and ordered a soda, all the while looking around the club to see who was there. When her eyes fell on Lindsey talking to a brunette girl, she raised an eyebrow.

‘This just makes the situation so much more interesting,’ Buffy thought. ‘Who is she?’

It was only seconds later when Lindsey looked at her and grinned, grabbing the other girl’s hand and pulling her through the crowd behind him as he approached Buffy. She took a deep breath and drank some of her soda, mentally trying to collect herself.

“Hey, Buffy,” Lindsey said, smiling at her. “I want you to meet Eve.” Buffy shook the girl’s hand and managed a small smile.

“It’s nice to meet you,” Eve said. “Lindsey’s told me all about you.”

“Has he?” Buffy asked, raising an eyebrow. “Sorry, but I don’t think he’s ever mentioned you.” Eve looked at Lindsey, frowning. “So, how long have you two been dating?”

“We’re just friends,” Lindsey replied. “For now.” Eve nodded and saw someone across the room, waving at her.

“Hey, I’ll be right back,” she said, looking at Lindsey and then at Buffy. “It really was nice to meet you.” Buffy nodded and watched as Eve walked away.

“She seems nice,” Buffy said, looking into her drink. “How long have you known her?”

“Is it just me, or do you seem kind of jealous?” Lindsey asked, smirking.

“No, not at all,” Buffy replied. “But if you were cheating on me, that’s just another point against you.”

“I’ve known her for a couple of years,” he said. “She used to live here and then moved to Santa Cruz, but she’s coming back soon.”

“I hope it works out,” Buffy said, looking at him. “If I find out that you hurt her or anyone else, you know I’m going to go to the cops, right?”

“How many times do I have to tell you that I didn’t mean to hit you?” he asked exasperatedly. “It was an accident!”

“Running a car into a tree is an accident,” she replied sharply. “Running your fist into somebody's stomach is a plan.” He frowned. “Don’t give me a reason to turn you in, Lindsey. If I find out anything against you, I’ll-”

“If you ‘find out anything against’ me, go to the cops, Buffy,” he replied, shrugging. “But you won’t find anything, and I wish you’d just let it go already.”

“I’ll never let it go,” she said quietly, sipping from her cup. “I’ll see you around, Linds.” He nodded and turned around, heading towards Eve. She sighed and sat down on a barstool, wishing she’d just have the courage to go to the police and turn him in.

‘Because if he does hurt someone else, you’re going to feel guilty for the rest of your life,’ she thought, finishing her drink and slamming the cup down on the bar. ‘I can’t even go out and have a good time anymore. What’s wrong with me?’

* * *

As Spike walked into his apartment, he saw Harmony sitting on the couch, waiting for him solemnly.

“Were we supposed to have a date or something tonight?” Spike asked, putting his keys on his kitchen counter.

“No,” she answered, taking a deep breath as she stood up. “It’s over, isn’t it?”

“What?” he asked, raising an eyebrow. “What’re you talking about?”

“You and I,” she said quietly, looking at him. “It’s over between us, isn’t it?” He paused before slightly nodding. She looked down, fighting back tears.

“I’m sorry, Harm,” he replied, looking away. “I should’ve said something before or talked to you about it.”

“There’s someone else, isn’t there?” she asked moments later, wiping off her eyes as she looked at him.

“What makes you think that?” he asked, wondering if she knew somehow about his one-night stand with Buffy.

“Because you’ve seemed detached for a month now,” Harmony said. “And I guess I figured it was because of losing Joyce, but now I think it’s something else. Someone else.”

“There’s someone I care about, yes,” he admitted. “But it’ll never happen. She doesn’t feel the same way.”

“I can’t see why a girl wouldn’t like you,” she replied, smiling softly. “You’re quite the catch.”

“Thank you,” he replied, hugging her. “I’m sorry it didn’t work out, luv.” She sighed and took a step back.

“Me, too,” she said. “It was fun.” He nodded. “Goodbye, Spike.” She took one last look at him before leaving his apartment. He sighed and ran a hand over his face.

“I need a drink,” he said to himself before leaving his apartment and heading into town.

* * *

When Spike saw Buffy sitting at the bar of the Bronze, he smiled to himself before walking towards her, sitting down beside her. She looked at him and raised an eyebrow.

“You’re the last person I expected to see here tonight,” she said, looking into her half-empty glass.

“Could say the same for you,” he replied, ordering a beer. “You look like someone killed your goldfish.”

“Lindsey was here before,” she said, and he frowned. “He left a couple of minutes ago, so it looks like you won’t be attacking him tonight.” He smiled softly. “He was with a new girl, some chic named Eve. She seems like his type.”

“So why do you seem so down and out?” he asked, taking a swig from his bottle.

“I really should report him, shouldn’t I?” she asked, and he nodded vigorously. “But it could ruin his whole life, Spike. Maybe he really didn’t mean to punch me.”

“And maybe he’s punched girls before,” Spike replied. “Maybe he raped someone, pet.” She looked at him. “It’s better to be safe than sorry, Buffy. You could protect other girls in this town.”

“While in the process screwing him out of his UCLA scholarship?” she asked. “Keeping him from becoming a lawyer, which apparently is his dream?”

“He made the mistake, luv, not you,” he said. “You shouldn’t be protecting him.”

“We all make mistakes,” she replied, looking at Spike. He nodded and looked down. “I don’t know what to do.”

“I’m sure it’ll come to you,” he said. She nodded, and silence fell over them for a moment. “Harmony and I broke up tonight.” She looked at him. “Just thought I’d tell you.”

“Did she ever find out about you and I?” she asked quietly, and he shook his head.

“I’m afraid this break-up was bound to happen for a while,” he said, shrugging. “It’s for the best.” A slow song began to play in the club, and he offered his hand to her. “Do you want to dance?” She looked at him and then at his hand for a second before placing hers on top of it and allowing him to lead her out to the dance-floor. Once they made it to a fairly empty spot, he wrapped his arms around her waist and held her close to him while her arms went around his neck. She sighed and rested her head on his shoulder, not surprised at how comfortable it felt to be in his arms again. “So, I don’t have a date for the gala.” She smiled softly.

“Neither do I,” she said, looking at him. He smiled and grazed her cheek.

“Do you think maybe I could be your date?” he asked, and she shrugged jokingly. He chuckled and kissed her forehead softly. “Is that a yes, pet?”

“Yes,” she answered, resting her head back down and smiling.

“So does this mean that we’re going to try being friends?” he asked curiously, running his hand over her wavy hair.

“I guess it’s better than being enemies,” she answered, getting both of them to smile.

 

Chapter 6:

When Spike walked into the gallery the following Monday morning, he was surprised to see Hank sitting in his office, apparently waiting for Spike. He walked to the doorway and waited for his new boss to speak, worried that maybe he knew something or was going to fire him.

‘Which would really suck,’ he said to himself. ‘I need this job more than I’d like to admit, and getting to see Buffy almost every day is a perk.’ Hank’s voice quickly interrupted his train of thought.

“So, Buffy tells me that you two are going to the gala together,” Hank said, sitting back in his chair. “Is that true?”

“Yes,” Spike answered, deciding that lying wasn’t worth it.

“Tell me, William,” Hank said, tilting his head. “Do you love my daughter?” Spike raised an eyebrow. “Just answer the question.”

“I care about her,” he said. “I’ve known her for quite a long time.”

“Do you intend on dating her?” Hank asked, and Spike took a deep breath.

“If she’d agree to it, yes,” he answered. “But your daughter is rather stubborn, sir.” Hank laughed and nodded.

“I’m afraid she gets that from me,” he replied, motioning for Spike to have a seat across from him. Spike sat down and looked at his boss, curious to hear what Hank was going to say next. “You know, Joyce once told me that she thought that you and Buffy would make a good couple.” Spike smiled. “But you do realize she’s still just a girl, William. She’s only 18, she’s free-spirited, she’s going to college soon- she has her whole life ahead of her.” Spike nodded, confused by the shift in the conversation. “Whereas you’re 28, have a stable job, and are probably looking to plan out the rest of your life. Am I right?”

“I think everyone wants to ‘plan out’ their lives,” he answered, clasping his hands together.

“My point is that she’s young, and girls her age tend to make foolish decisions,” Hank said.

‘Yeah, I know that all too well,’ Spike thought.

“Even though I think she’s too young for you, I think you’re a good man,” Hank continued. “But if you ever do anything to hurt her, you’ll be hearing from me.” Spike smiled, nodding.

“Thank you for your blessing, sir,” he replied, standing up. “But I can assure you that she’ll be in good hands with me.”

“I hope so,” Hank said, frowning as the phone rang. “And I know you’ll take good care of her when I move back to L.A.” Spike raised an eyebrow as Hank answered the phone.

‘That’s right- he’s going to move back,’ he thought. ‘And she’ll be all alone in that house.’ He frowned and left the office, trying to suss out his thoughts as he began work for the day.

* * *

When Buffy came to the gallery later on, Spike promptly led her into the back room and closed the door. She looked at him, surprised and a little worried.

“What’s up?” she asked, sitting down on a box. He sighed and crossed his arms.

“Your father and I talked this morning,” he answered. “About you…and I.”

“Oh?” she asked, trying not to freak out. “What exactly did you talk about?”

“He doesn’t know about us shagging, luv, so stop looking like you’re going to heave,” he replied, smirking. She sighed with relief and looked down. “But I expressed my feelings about you to him.” She looked at him, an eyebrow raised. “And he expressed his concerns about you and I if we ever started dating.”

“Yeah, I’m sure he’s not too keen on his 18 year old daughter dating a 28 year old man,” she replied.

“But he did give us his blessing, along with a promise of hunting me down if I hurt you,” he said, exaggerating the truth to get her to smile, which she did.

“Glad to hear it,” she said. “Is that really why you pulled me into here?”

“No,” he answered, pushing a box in front of her and sitting down on it. “He reminded me that pretty soon you’ll be living alone.” She nodded, looking down. “I don’t know how I feel about that.” She shrugged.

“Maybe living alone will be good for me,” she said. “I guess it wouldn’t hurt to try it. And if it really sucks that much, I can have Willow live with me or something.”

“But even if she lives with you, I don’t know how protected you’ll be,” he said. “I wouldn’t feel right knowing you’re in a house by yourself every night, or even in a house with another girl.” She looked at him. “I could live with you.” She paused before laughing hysterically. “What’s so funny? I’m being serious.”

“You…and I…living together,” she managed to say as she continued laughing. “Bad…idea.”

“I happen to think it’s a good one,” he replied defensively, crossing his arms. “Why is it so bad?” She slowly calmed down, still giggling a bit every other second.

“We’d be at each other’s throats daily,” she said. “You and I would fight constantly, which isn’t that different from how it is now, but if we lived together, I couldn’t just run away from you and seek shelter in my house because you’d be there, too.” He frowned. “And it’d just be too weird. Let me try living alone, and if it really sucks, I’ll consider having you as a roommate.”

“You promise?” he asked, and she nodded. “Fine, I guess I can live with that.”

“Good,” she replied, getting up before helping him stand. “I bought a dress today for the gala.”

“Yeah?” he asked, smirking. “What does it look like?”

“Not telling,” she answered, heading for the door. “But it’s red.”

“You bought a dress that’s my favorite color?” he asked, smiling, and she nodded. “I’m touched.” She laughed and opened the door.

“I’m going to look beautiful,” she replied, slightly waving at Fred as the brunette walked in through the front door of the gallery.

“You always look beautiful,” he said, and she smiled at him as he leaned down to kiss her temple.



 

Chapter 7:

When the night of the gala finally arrived, Buffy spent hours getting ready, meticulously perfecting every detail of her appearance.

‘Spike’s going to lose it,’ she thought, grinning as she looked in a mirror at the crimson gown she was wearing, which accentuated her curves and added to her cleavage. ‘Absolutely fabulous.’

She grabbed a matching purse and slid on heels before walking downstairs, meeting her father in the kitchen.

“You look beautiful,” Hank said, kissing her cheek. “Are you ready to leave?”

“Yep, let’s get this party started,” she said, smiling, following him outside and to the car.

After getting in and rolling down the driveway, Hank took a deep breath and looked at Buffy for a moment.

“Are you sure you’re okay with me returning to L.A.?” he asked. “Because if you’re not, I could probably pull some strings and move here.” Buffy smiled softly.

“I’ll be fine, Dad,” she replied. “But thanks for asking.” He nodded and began to drive to the gallery.

“So, about you and William,” Hank said, focusing on the road. “Are you two dating now?”

“I think we’re still just friends,” she answered. “Him and I didn’t get along for a very long time, so I think we need to work on that before we even consider dating.”

“But you’re his date tonight, correct?” he asked, and she smiled, looking out the window.

“Yes, he’s my date,” she replied.

“I just don’t want to see you get hurt, Buffy,” Hank said. “He’s a lot older than you, which could lead to a lot of problems, you realize.”

“I know,” she replied. “I don’t even know if we will ever be together.” Hank cleared his throat and nodded.

“Right,” he said, looking at her for a moment. “I know I’m your father and shouldn’t approve of it in the first place, but maybe you two will be good for each other.” She smiled at him.

“Yeah, maybe we will be,” she said, looking outside once again.

* * *

When Spike saw Buffy walk into the gallery, he felt as if his heart had stopped beating.

‘She’s the most magnificent creature I’ve ever laid eyes on,’ he thought, looking at every inch of her. ‘And tonight, she’s all mine.’ She saw him and grinned, walking through the crowd to stand in front of him.

“Hi,” she said, laughing as he continued to look at her dress. “Do I really look that bad?”

“Not in the slightest,” he replied, his eyes focusing on hers. “You’re breath-taking, you know that?”

“Why thank you,” she said, smiling. “You clean up pretty nice, too.” He smirked. “I think it’s safe to say that you look absolutely gorgeous every year when you wear a tux.”

“Thanks,” he said, looking at his outfit. “It’s rather uncomfortable, but it’s a small price to pay to look hot for you.” She giggled when he wrapped his arm around her waist and softly kissed her forehead. “Think I could get a dance with the prettiest girl at the party?”

“What am I supposed to do? Stand over here and watch?” she asked, smirking. He chuckled and led her towards the makeshift dance-floor they had created in the gallery. A band had been brought in to play music for the night at Buffy’s request, due to the fact that Joyce had always liked live music more than music played by a DJ.

When Spike wrapped his arms around her waist and held her close, she began to remember why she wanted him that night, and it wasn’t just for comfort- being with him felt right. He kissed her bare shoulder and smiled softly.

“You really are the belle of the ball,” he said quietly, looking into her eyes. “I think you always have been.”

“I appreciate the flattery,” she said, grazing his cheek. “But you don’t have to say it.”

“I want to,” he replied. “I meant every word of it.” She smiled and rested her head on his shoulder. “When I call you ‘princess’, it’s usually not to piss you off.” She looked at him, confused. “You are a princess, even if you’re snobby and evil.” She giggled. “You’re my princess.” She leaned up to gently press a kiss to his lips. “Am I your prince?”

It was then that Buffy felt as if someone was watching her. She turned and saw exactly who it was- Lindsey.

* * *

Spike felt her tense up in his arms and followed her gaze, instantly feeling anger course through him.

“That’s him, isn’t it?” he asked, looking at her. She nodded numbly, breaking away from Spike and heading towards Lindsey, who was standing on the other side of the room. Spike followed her, his fists clenched at his sides as he walked.

“What’re you doing here?” she asked quietly when she finally reached Lindsey.

“Wanted to see how pretty you looked,” he answered, looking up and down her body. “You look beautiful, Buffy.”

“Thanks,” she said, looking down. Spike stood beside her and appraised the brunette teenager.

“I’m Lindsey,” he said, extending a hand to the platinum blonde who was staring at him. Spike looked at Lindsey’s hand and raised an eyebrow. When Spike didn’t shake his hand, Lindsey slowly put his hand down, feeling slightly uncomfortable by the other man’s demeanor.

“I think you should leave,” Spike said sternly, crossing his arms. Lindsey looked at him, surprised.

“Yeah? And why is that?” he asked. Spike balled up his fist and punched him, sending Lindsey stumbling back until he hit a wall. Buffy gasped, as did everyone else in the room that had witnessed it.

“That’s for ever touching my girl,” Spike said in a low tone before punching Lindsey again. Buffy managed to pull him back, still in shock and slightly terrified. Hank instantly appeared after moving through the crowd, looking at Lindsey and then at Spike.

“What the hell happened?” he asked. “Explain yourself, William.”

“He deserved it,” Spike said, cradling his red knuckles.

“I didn’t do anything!” Lindsey replied, coddling his nose. “He fucking hit me for no reason!” Spike was about to speak, but Buffy grabbed his arm and shook her head, trying to mentally tell him to stay quiet about the truth.

“You should go, Lindsey,” Buffy said, looking at him. “I’m sorry.” He clenched his jaw and stormed out of the building just as Hank turned to look at Spike.

“You’re fired.”
 

Chapter 8:

“What?” Spike asked, his eyes widening. Hank pointed to the door.

“Get out- you no longer are employed here,” he said sharply. “You assaulted some poor teenager tonight in front of everyone, not only making an ass out of yourself, but also of me. People respect this gallery, and you’ve managed to sully its reputation within an instant because you felt like hitting that boy for no reason.”

“He deserved it!” Spike shot back, angry. “Buffy, tell him.” She looked down and shook her head slightly.

“Leave, William,” Hank said, crossing his arms. “Someone will give you your stuff from the back room sometime this week.” Spike looked at Buffy, who refused to look at him. It was in that one moment when he felt betrayed, more hurt than he was the night she asked him to leave and forget that they had slept together.

“Fine,” Spike growled, storming out, never looking back at the two Summers standing there and watching him.

“Are you alright, honey?” Hank asked, gently placing his hand on her shoulder. She looked at him with tears in her eyes, and there were tear tracks clearly evident on her cheeks.

“No,” she answered quietly, lifting her dress up off the ground slightly as she ran after Spike.

* * *

Spike had just made it to his car when he saw Buffy run outside and towards him. He clenched his jaw and opened the car door.

“Spike, please don’t go,” she said, quickly arriving at his side. “I’m sorry about what happened. Let me talk to Dad- I’m sure I can get you your job back.”

“Why didn’t you say something to him before?” Spike asked angrily. “Why didn’t you stop this from happening in the first place? You could’ve stood up for me, told him the truth, but you didn’t, Buffy. How do you think that makes me feel?”

“How do you think I feel?” she asked loudly, becoming upset. “Lindsey showed up tonight unannounced and you slugged him, causing a major disruption in the gallery, of all places. If Mom would’ve been here tonight, she would’ve fired you, too.”

“No she wouldn’t have,” Spike shot back. “Because she would’ve known that Lindsey deserved it.”

“Lindsey didn’t deserve to be attacked, Spike,” she yelled.

“And neither did you,” he replied, throwing his arms up. “Have you forgotten that he used you as his punching bag?”

“He hit me once,” she said firmly. “And it’s not the same.”

“I’m not arguing about this in the street,” Spike said, getting in his car. She quickly ran to the other side and got in. He looked at her sternly. “What’re you doing?”

“We’ll talk about this somewhere else then,” she replied. “Because this needs to be resolved.” He took a deep breath and started the car. “All of this needs to be resolved.”

* * *

After arriving at Spike’s apartment, Buffy sat on his couch, sighing.

“Want something to drink?” Spike asked as he walked to his refrigerator.

“I’ll have whatever you’re having,” she answered, looking at him.

“No you won’t,” he replied, grabbing a beer for himself and soda for her before returning to sit by her side.

“Thanks,” she said, taking the soda from him. “So, I guess we should talk.”

“And not just about what happened tonight,” he said, opening the beer bottle. “Because that’s not really weighing as heavily on me as when we-”

“I wish you wouldn’t have punched Lindsey,” she said, looking down. “You got fired because of me.”

“I can work somewhere else,” he mumbled, drinking from his bottle.

“Maybe when Dad moves back, we can give you your job back,” she suggested with a hopeful tone. “I know Fred would allow it.”

“I’m not worried about my job,” he said. “Or even Lindsey hunting me down or sending the cops after me. What I’m worried about is you.” She raised an eyebrow. “You and I, to be specific.”

“There is no ‘you and I’,” she said. “There never has been.”

“That’s a lie, luv, and you know it,” he replied. “Tonight’s an example of that. Things were good before the ponce buggered everything up.”

“I know,” she said quietly, looking down.

“You didn’t answer my question before,” he said with a hint of lightheartedness in his tone. “Before you saw Lindsey.”

“Did sleeping with me really mean something to you?” she asked, choosing to ignore what he said.

“Of course it did,” he answered, frowning. “I’ll admit that I didn’t expect it to happen, and it probably wasn’t right to shag when we did, but I wanted to, and I think a part of you did, too.”

“Do you love me?” she asked quietly, looking at her hands, folded in her lap.

“Starting to,” he answered, looking at her. She nodded and stood up. “Buffy-”

“I’m tired, Spike,” she said. “Maybe I should go.” He stood up and grazed her cheek softly. “Don’t.”

“Stay tonight,” he said, looking into her eyes. “Please. We don’t have to talk or do anything- just stay.” She saw a look in his eyes that was similar to one she had seen the night they slept together. One that made her heart melt and her defenses dissolve.

“Okay,” she said, and he smiled before kissing her softly. “Can I rest now?” He nodded and led her into his bedroom. He watched her as she took off her heels and jewelry before trying to reach the zipper of her dress. He walked up behind her and slowly slid it down, watching as more of her back was exposed to him. It took a lot of restraint to not run his hand down her spine, to not feel her smooth skin beneath his fingertips. “Thanks.” He nodded and began to take off his tux. “Umm, Spike? I don’t have anything to sleep in.”

“Right,” he said, going into his closet and scouring through it. “What would you like?”

“Something comfortable,” she answered. He grabbed an old black t-shirt and black boxers, handing them to her. She smiled gratefully at him and went into the bathroom to change. He sighed and stripped down completely before getting in bed.

After figuring out a place to hang her dress and pulling her hair up into a messy bun, she grabbed Spike’s t-shirt and brought it up to her nose, inhaling his scent.

‘He makes cigarette smoke smell sexy,’ she thought absently before pulling on the shirt and his boxers, rolling up the waistband of them so they’d fit a little better, even though they were still loose on her. She walked into his room and saw him lying in bed, flipping through TV channels. ‘He’s not wearing a shirt…this is bad.’ She studied him for a moment. ‘I wonder if he’s wearing anything at all.’

“Want me to turn the light off?” she asked, trying to distract herself from thoughts of a possibly nude Spike.

“Sure, kitten,” he said, watching her. She flicked off the lights and walked to the bed, smiling when he lifted the covers for her.

“Dad’s going to kill me when I don’t come home tonight,” she said quietly, yawning. He turned off the TV.

“No he won’t,” he replied. “Don’t worry about it.” She nodded and curled up, her back to him. He watched her for a moment before running his hand over her back. “Goodnight, sweetheart.”

“Goodnight, Spike,” she said, half-asleep. “My prince.”

* * *

Spike reluctantly took her home the next morning, not wanting to be apart from her and worried about how Hank would react to his daughter being gone all night, having stayed with him. When he pulled up in front of her house, he looked at her, taking a deep breath.

“Going to wish me luck?” she asked quietly, and he ran his hand over her hair.

“Call me later, pet,” he said, and she nodded before getting out of the car. Once she was inside her house, he sighed. “Good luck.”

Buffy heard him drive off just as her father appeared in the living room, looking at her.

“Where were you?” he asked, obviously furious. “Were you with William?”

“What do you think?” she asked, heading for the stairs.

“Don’t you talk to me like that, Elizabeth,” he said sternly, stopping her before she could go upstairs. “Where were you?”

“I slept at Spike’s,” she answered, crossing her arms. “Satisfied?”

“You’re too young to just stay out all night, especially if you’re staying at some guy’s house,” Hank said angrily.

“I’m eighteen!” she replied loudly. “I’m old enough to live on my own, Dad- I’m a legal adult. And Spike’s not just ‘some guy’- I’ve known him for a long time, and it’s not like you don’t know him, too.”

“I don’t want you near him,” Hank said firmly. “He’s not good for you, Buffy, and he’s clearly a violent man.”

“I don’t blame him for doing what he did,” she said, looking at her father. “In fact, I respect him for what he did.” She paused. “And you can’t keep me from him.”

“You’re my daughter- I can keep you from anyone I want to,” Hank shot back.

“I’m not a kid anymore, Dad!” she yelled. “Why can’t you see that? I can make my own decisions and live however I want to. I care about Spike, he cares about me, and I’m not giving up on that because you don’t like him anymore. And don’t even begin to play the ‘father card’ because you haven’t been around for the last few years- you weren’t much of a father to me then, and right now, I don’t really think I want you around if you’re going to act like this.” Hank balled up his fists and scoffed.

“You have no right to say that to me,” Hank replied.

“Get out of my house, Hank,” she said sharply, crossing her arms. “You’re no longer welcome here.” She turned and walked upstairs, going into her room and slamming the door shut.
 

Chapter 9:

By nightfall, Hank had all of his stuff packed up and in his car, ready to return to Los Angeles. Before he left, he went to Buffy’s room and quietly knocked on her door before opening it. She was sitting on her window-seat, watching the sunset, her back to him.

“Are you leaving?” she asked, still focused on the sky.

“Yes,” he answered, leaning against the doorframe. “I don’t like what happened before, Buffy.” She looked down. “You’re my daughter and I love you, but I think you’re making some very bad decisions.”

“Maybe I am,” she replied. “But I’d rather learn from my mistakes than be told what to do.” He nodded and looked down. “I’m sorry for how I acted before, but I meant everything I said to you.”

“Don’t shut me out of your life,” he said, and she looked at him. “I love you, Buffy.” She nodded and looked outside again. “So, this is goodbye?”

“For now,” she answered. “I’m sure I’ll talk to you again soon.” He sighed and turned. “Goodbye, Dad.”

“Goodbye, Buffy,” he replied, walking away. She took a deep breath and waited until she heard the door close to stand up and get her phone. Spike picked up just as she watched Hank drive away.

“He’s gone,” she said, sighing. “Want to come over?”

“I thought he wasn’t leaving for a while,” Spike replied. “Why’d he leave this soon?”

“I told him to,” she answered quietly. “I wanted him to go.”

“So he’s going back to L.A. tonight? And you’re going to be living alone now?” Spike asked, trying to clarify things he already knew to be true.

“Yes,” she answered. “Are you going to come over?”

“Maybe we should just take the night off and think things through, pet,” he suggested. “I know there’s a lot that’s on my mind, and I’d bet to wager the same is true for you.”

“So you’re not going to stop by?” she asked sadly.

“I just think we should be apart tonight to consider what it is that’s going on with us,” Spike said, even though he wanted to be with her more than ever.

‘But I want her to be sure of all of this,’ he thought. ‘I know what I want with my life- to spend it with Buffy. I doubt she feels the same way.’

“Fine,” she said, somewhat angry. “Bye.” Before he could get in a word edge-wise, she hung up the phone and tossed it onto her bed.

‘I know I wanted to be alone before, but now it doesn’t seem so nice,’ she thought. ‘I don’t want to be alone anymore.’

* * *

After a few minutes of sitting around bored, Buffy called Fred.

“So, what exactly happened last night?” Fred asked. “Hank told me that Spike punched your boyfriend.”

“Yeah, he did,” Buffy said, sitting on the couch. “Lindsey deserved it, though. He’s such a jerk, Fred.”

“I thought he was a sweet guy?” Fred asked, surprised.

“He was in the beginning, but after a while, things changed,” Buffy answered. “But Dad fired Spike.”

“He didn’t tell me that,” Fred replied, frowning. “I bet Spike didn’t take that well.”

“A lot better than I would’ve had I been in that position,” Buffy said. “But I was wondering if maybe we could bring him back in. We wouldn’t necessarily have to tell Dad, and you’re in charge now while he’s in L.A.”

“I don’t know, Buffy,” Fred replied. “I don’t know if it’s wise to go against Hank’s wishes.”

“I don’t really care what he wishes,” Buffy said sternly. “I want Spike to have his job back.”

“I could be fired if I allow him to work with us again,” Fred said. “You do realize I’d be risking a lot if I did this.”

“So you’ll do it?” Buffy asked, smiling softly.

“But if I get in trouble, I’m blaming it all on you,” Fred answered, smiling.

“I owe you, Fred,” Buffy said, sighing.

“Good- work for me tomorrow and we’ll call it a deal,” Fred replied, causing Buffy to laugh.


* * *

When the doorbell rang an hour later, Buffy walked to the door and opened it, hoping it was Spike and that he had changed his mind. She instantly froze as she was faced with Lindsey, sporting both a black eye and a broken nose. She took a step back, trying to shut the door quickly, but he pushed his way through and slammed the door behind him.

“What…what’re you doing here?” she asked, surprised that she sounded a lot calmer than she felt.

“Wanted to see if the blonde wonder was here,” he replied sharply. “Where is he?”

“At his apartment,” she answered, taking a small step back as Lindsey moved closer to her.

“So it’s just us?” Lindsey asked, tilting his head as he looked up and down her body. She was scared by the change in his behavior and took another step back, closer to her telephone. “Come on, Buffy, let’s try working things out.”

“Go home, Lindsey,” she said quietly, her voice wavering a bit.

“No, I think things are just about to get interesting,” he replied, quickly moving forward and tightly wrapping his arms around her waist, pulling her to him. “Don’t you think?”

“Why are you doing this?” she asked, visibly shaking in his embrace.

“Because I love you, baby,” he whispered in her ear before kissing the crook of her neck.

“I don’t love you, Lindsey,” she said, managing to push him back. Before she knew what was happening, his fist slammed into her eye, causing her to fall backwards from the force of it, hitting her stairs. Her hands flew up to cover her eye, pain spreading throughout her whole body. “Get the hell out of my house!” She stood up again and pushed him back, towards the door, but he punched her again, this time in the stomach. She bowled over in indescribable agony.

“You’re going to change your mind about me, Buffy,” Lindsey said, punching her again before turning for the door. “I know you feel like I do.” He walked out and slammed the door behind him, and Buffy sank to the ground, crying and curling up.

‘I’ve got to do something,’ she thought, trying to ignore the pain. ‘This has to end.’ She got to a standing position and walked into her kitchen, grabbing the phone.

“Sunnydale Police Department,” a voice on the other line said. “How can I help you?”
 

Chapter 10:

Buffy went in to work the next day after spending a generous amount of time trying to cover her black eye with make-up. Other than the dull pains she had every once in a while, she felt a lot better about things. She had called the cops to report Lindsey to them, and when two cops arrived at her door, she told them all about what he had done to her that night and before then. After they left and arrested him, she felt a lot safer and knew she had done the right thing.

‘And if more girls come forward, he’ll be put away for a very long time,’ she thought. ‘A very long time.’

When she walked into the gallery, she managed a smile when Spike walked out of the back room and grinned at her as he approached her.

“Hello, my sweet,” he said, hugging her and not noticing when she winced slightly. “How’re you?”

‘Do I tell him, do I not tell him…’ she thought.

“I’m doing well,” she answered. “How are you?”

‘Stupid, stupid Buffy,’ she chided herself. ‘Why aren’t you telling him?’

“I’m fine, pet,” he answered. “I still can’t believe Fred is letting me work here again without telling Hank.”

“I called in a favor,” Buffy said, shrugging. “I wanted you to have your old job back. Screw whatever Dad wants.”

“That’s sweet of you, but what happens when he finds out?” Spike asked.

“I’ll come up with something,” she answered, walking towards the office.

“So, I was thinking a lot about us last night,” Spike said as he followed her.

“Yeah? And what did you deduce?” she asked, putting down her purse before going into the back room, him still following her.

“That I really want us to give dating a try,” he said, looking at her. She smiled softly and went to a set of shelves, reaching up to grab a box. “What the bloody hell happened?” She looked at him and noticed he was looking at her stomach, where her shirt had raised, showing off her new bruises.

‘I’m screwed.’

“Spike, sit down,” she said quietly, and he crossed his arms. “Please?”

“What’s going on?” he asked sternly, becoming angrier by the second.

“Lindsey came over uninvited last night,” she answered, looking down. “To settle the score, I guess…or something like that, I don’t know. He was looking for you and settled on me.” Spike’s eyes widened.

“He did that to you?” he asked, furious. “Where is he? I’m going to kill him, Buffy, I swear to-”

“The cops already have him in custody,” she cut in, still not looking at him. “I called them last night after he left and they arrested him.”

“And you weren’t going to tell me?” he asked, even more upset by the fact she was hiding it from him.

“I was,” she answered. “Eventually.”

“‘Eventually’?” he yelled. “‘Eventually’, she says. How bloody brilliant!”

“I didn’t want to alarm you,” she said, looking at him and seeing how tightly his jaw was clenched, along with his fists, causing her to take a step back in fear, a move that didn’t go unnoticed by Spike. He tried to calm down, taking a deep breath.

“Buffy, you should’ve told me,” he replied. “You should’ve called me to come over, to tell me what happened- I should’ve been there for you.”

“I could handle it on my own, Spike,” she said, walking out of the storage room, carrying the box into the office.

“You got punched around- obviously you couldn’t handle it on your own,” he said sharply, an edge to his voice. She put the box down on the desk and looked at him.

“I should’ve called you- I’m sorry,” she replied. “But there’s nothing I can do about it now. Lindsey is with the cops and I’m fine.”

“You’ve got bruises that prove otherwise,” he said.

“And a nifty black eye,” she added quietly, looking down. He walked towards her and looked at her, noticing that her left eye was definitely inflamed, and he could tell that there was some bruising beneath a layer of make-up.

“That stupid son of a bitch,” he growled. “If he ever gets out of jail-”

“This isn’t your fight,” she said, taking a step back and trying to open the box. “I appreciate that you tried to help before, but this is for me to do, not you.”

“Why are you pushing me away?” he asked, both hurt and angry.

“Because I don’t want you to be involved in this mess,” she answered, prying open the box.

“I want to be involved,” he replied, frowning.

“Spike, let it go,” she said firmly, looking at him.

“I’m not letting this go!” he shouted, and she looked down. “Buffy, Lindsey attacked you again- that’s not something you just shrug off.”

“I don’t want to talk about this anymore,” she said, walking past him and out of the office. He caught up to her and grabbed her arm, turning her around. She looked down and took a deep breath. “I can’t do this, Spike. I need to be on my own again, and it’s better if I just live through this Lindsey thing by myself.”

“What’re you trying to say, Buffy?” he asked, confused. She looked at him with a sad expression.

“I don’t think this is going to work,” she said quietly, turning and walking out of the gallery. Spike watched her walk away, frozen in his place, beyond stunned. When he felt a tear roll down his cheek, he idly wiped it away before sitting down on a bench, trying to compose himself.

‘Why am I letting her walk away from this?’

* * *

Spike left the gallery that night, hurt and frustrated. He went home to his apartment and instantly grabbed a bottle of Jack Daniels, sitting down on his couch and drinking the amber liquor.

‘I need to see her,’ he thought, grabbing his phone. ‘I need to talk to her and sort this all out.’ He paused. ‘But maybe she really does need to be alone right now. I should give her some space, right? Maybe she’ll come to her senses.’ He sighed. ‘Or maybe she won’t.’ He looked at the phone in his hand and studied it. ‘But maybe there’s someone else I can try talking to.’ He dialed a familiar number and waited for someone to pick up on the other line.

“Hi, Harmony,” he said. “It’s me.”

On the other side of town, Buffy was lying in her bed, staring out her window.

‘I really screwed up this time,’ she thought. ‘I’m making a big mistake, aren’t I? I should just call Spike and apologize. Maybe we can still work things out.’ She took a deep breath and stood up. ‘This isn’t something one should do on a phone.’ She grabbed her purse and car keys before walking downstairs and leaving her house. ‘I just hope he’ll forgive me. For everything.’ She got in her car and sped off to his place.

When she pulled up in front of his building, she parked and looked outside to see Harmony walking inside. She raised an eyebrow before it hit her.

‘Unless Harmony’s got a friend here, she must be here for Spike,’ Buffy thought, instantly feeling sick. ‘He’s going back to her, isn’t he?’ She felt tears welling up in her eyes. ‘It’s too late.’

Next