Chapter 1:

Buffy was sitting behind the front desk, filing her nails, when a bunch of guys walked into the building. She raised an eyebrow, looking at the four guys standing in front of her suddenly. There was a tall, broody brunette, a good-looking black man, a brunette with glasses, and a platinum blonde.

‘Nice selection. Do I get to make my choice before everyone else?’ she thought to herself.

“Hello. What can I do for you?” she asked, looking at all of the men.

“Well, we are looking for some of your…services,” the tall brunette said, extending a hand. “I’m Angel.”

“Nice name,” she smiled. “Do you have an appointment?” He nodded. Buffy scrolled through the appointment book. “Ah yes, Angel at four for Faith. Good choice. Had her before?” He shook his head. “I hope you don’t mind scratches and bruises.” His eyes widened and a frown settled on his features. “I’ll give her a heads-up to go easy on you.” He looked at the other brunette man, afraid. “And the other three? Voyeurism a part of the package?” The one with glasses took a step forward.

“Wesley Wyndham-Pryce,” he said, extending a hand. Buffy shook it and looked at the listing.

‘I wonder if he’s mine,’ she thought. ‘I’ve always had a thing for Brits.’

“Oh, you’ve got Vi,” she smiled. “She’s a sweetheart. Very gentle, I’ve been told. You’ll like her.”

“Great,” he smiled, looking pleased. “And this is Charles Gunn.” He pointed to the black man.

“And you sir have Kennedy,” Buffy smiled. “She’s friends with Faith. I hope you like it rough, too.” He looked at Angel, frowning. “Did no one inform you of the girls?” They both shook their heads. “Well, I hope you like it nonetheless.” She looked at the blonde. “And your name?”

“Spike,” he said, smirking. “Who do I have?”

‘Another hottie with a British accent,’ she thought. Buffy smiled back at him and looked at the book, suddenly grinning.

“Apparently, that would be me,” she said, looking back up at him. He grinned, too.

“How come Spike gets the nice one?” Charles Gunn asked, crossing his arms and looking at Angel.

“Who says I’m nice?” Buffy asked coyly, standing up and grabbing Spike’s hand. “The girls will come for you. Enjoy.” She led Spike to her room, down the hallway. “So, Spike, what exactly are you looking for?”

* * *

“Well, luv, I’m looking for pretty much anything you’ll give me,” he said, watching her shut and lock the door. “What are your specialties? Do you leave bruises, too?”

“Do you want me to?” Buffy asked, slowly approaching him. His eyes lit up as he studied her.

“You’re a pretty nice choice,” he said, looking up and down her body. “How’d I land such a beauty?”

“The fates must’ve been looking out for you,” she smiled softly, lighting candles. “Who ordered your package?”

“That was Cordelia, our friend,” he said. She looked at him, intrigued. “Yes, a girl. She thought we needed time off.” Buffy stifled a giggle as she shut off the lights, the flickering candles giving off a romantic glow. “You’re laughing, aren’t you?”

“Sincerely trying not to,” she said, looking at him. He slowly walked to her and ran his hand over her cheek.

“So, you sleep with strangers for money in this nice little harem?” he asked, looking down at her lips momentarily.

“It’s just a job,” she replied. “Not like I enjoy it.” He cocked an eyebrow. “What? I need money, so this is what I do. I’ve been in the business for about two months and get by on my own. Men can be…generous.”

“Unless they give you some disease,” he said sadly, looking into her eyes. Buffy frowned.

“I’m safe,” she replied. “Just like I require every guy to be. I don’t risk chances like that.” He nodded.

“Good,” he replied, trailing his hand down to her neck. “So, luv, how do we do this?”

“Well, you pretty much call all of the shots,” she answered. “I bend to your will. You choose, I act.”

“Acting?” he asked, crossing his arms. Buffy looked at him. “You’d be acting with me?”

“I’ve been told I’m convincing,” she offered. He narrowed his gaze. “Spike, I don’t know you. I do what you ask and deal with it. You want me on the floor, fine. Against the wall, fine. Upside down, fine. I do it all and follow your orders. You live out what you want, and we all leave happy. Okay?”

“No, I’m not ‘okay’,” he said sharply. Buffy sighed, exasperated, and sat on the edge of the bed. “You live like this?”

“Yeah, what of it?” she asked, leaning back on her hands. “It’s not so bad. I’m happy and get by. And you do realize you’ve only got an hour in the first place with me, so why are you wasting time?”

“I’m wasting time now?” he asked loudly. She frowned and looked down. “Talking about this is a waste? I’m bloody sorry, pet, but something isn’t sitting right with me.” Buffy sighed. “How old are you?”

“Eighteen,” she answered, looking at him funny. “Why?” He sat down beside her, looking down at his hands.

“You’re just a young girl,” he said quietly. She looked away. “Why did you decide to do this? For the money?”

“Had to do something,” she shrugged. “Got kicked out on my birthday and fell upon the job. Here I am.”

“So you’re a runaway?” he asked. Buffy nodded. “God, pet, I’m sorry.” She looked at him. “That you resorted to this, that you’ve been screwed over at such a young age. I feel like a perverted man who shouldn’t be here.”

“Well, if it’s any consolation, you’ve been the most considerate client I’ve ever had,” she said. He frowned. “Spike, this is what I do. I get paid for this, and I’d feel really awkward if I ended up rattling on for an hour and not giving you what you came for.” He frowned. “So do you want to get to this?”

“No,” he answered. She raised an eyebrow. “I want to talk. It’s not like I paid for this in the first place.” Buffy smiled softly. “Actually, I just want to get you out of here. Can we do that?” She shook her head. “Why not?”

“I’m working,” she replied. “I can’t just leave. I have…obligations. And appointments. I can’t just go.”

“Sure you can,” he said, grabbing her hand and pulling her up. “We’re leaving.” She followed him hesitantly as he led her out of the building and to an old black convertible parked at the curb.

“What about your friends?” she asked, looking at him. He got her in the car before getting in on his side.

“They’ve got Gunn’s truck,” he replied, shrugging. “Angel can reclaim his car later. Right now, we’re going away.” Buffy nodded and took a deep breath, looking up at the building as he started the car and drove off. “You know, ducks, I don’t even know your name.” She looked at him and smiled.

“Buffy,” she said quietly. He smirked and kept on driving. “Are you mocking my name, Billy?”

“Hey!” he said loudly, looking at her for a moment before focusing on the road again. “I’m saving you right now, princess. The least you can do is be nice to me.”

“Yes, you’re absolutely right,” she agreed, giggling. “So, are you Prince Charming or something?”

“Do you want me to be?” he asked, amused. She ducked her head, blushing, and looked outside. “I saw that.”

* * *

 

Chapter 2:
After a few minutes of silence, Buffy turned to look at him. “So, you said one of your friends set you four up with appointments at Miss Kitty’s Boudoir?” He nodded. “A girl, right?”

“Yeah,” he answered, mindlessly tapping his fingers against the steering wheel. “Cordelia Chase, Angel’s secretary.”

“May I ask why she did that?” she asked curiously, tilting her head. “Or is it a secret?”

“I tell you what,” he began, looking at her for a moment. “I’ll answer if you’ll answer any questions I ask you.” Buffy hesitated before nodding, looking at him expectantly for an answer. “Cordy bought us the packages because we solved a big case a couple of days ago and have been too busy and stressed out to have any fun lately.”

“A case?” she asked, raising an eyebrow. “Are you a lawyer?” He nodded. “Cool. My dad is one, too.”

“Then you know how hectic the life of one is,” he replied. She looked out the window, not choosing to respond to that. Spike noticed her reaction and wondered what she was hiding.

‘Did she run away from home because of her dad maybe?’ he thought, unconsciously gripping the wheel tighter as thoughts of reasons why she’d leave home flooded his head. ‘Don’t jump to conclusions so fast, mate. Drop the lawyer act for a minute and be a person.’

“Can I ask you a question?” he heard her say after a minute passed. She was looking at him with a pensive look on her face.

“Sure,” he answered, somewhat concerned to hear what she was going to ask about.

“If you’re a lawyer and all, why aren’t you trying to shut down Miss Kitty’s?” she asked. “I mean, a brothel isn’t exactly legal. I’d think that you’d be all for trying to close an establishment like that down.”

“Morally, yes, I should try to close it,” he said before smirking slightly. “But your employer gives a great deal of money to my firm to stay running. As long as we keep getting money, Miss Kitty’s should stay running.” She didn’t seem too surprised to hear the information and returned to watching the scenery fly by as Spike drove on the expressway. “So, I believe it’s my turn now.” She looked at him, confused. “So, luv, tell me about your past.”

“Well, I grew up here actually,” she said quietly. “But when my parents got divorced a few years ago, my mom and I moved down to Sunnydale. My life was a lot more fun after that. I had a couple of close friends, and I didn’t have to deal with my parents’ fighting anymore. Life was…perfect.” Spike noticed that the dreamy look in her eyes suddenly diminished. “And then my mom met Ted, a seemingly nice guy from town.”

“And I’m assuming this Ted guy wasn’t too great, was he?” Spike asked, worried that Ted might have hurt her.

“Nope, not great at all,” Buffy answered, wringing her hands in her lap. “I mean, he was in the beginning. He was good to my mom, baked cookies for my friends and I…but he wasn’t so nice when it was just him and I.”

‘Did that bastard touch her?’ Spike thought, clenching the wheel again. ‘So help me God, I’ll speed down there and beat him to death myself.’

“But somehow along the way, he started being able to convince my mom to do whatever he wanted,” she said, changing the subject off of her arguments with Ted. “And what he wanted was me out of the house, so I left on my birthday.” Spike felt sorry for the girl beside him again, not understanding how her mother could allow that to happen. “I came to L.A. looking for a fresh start and a chance for my life to maybe resort to the way it was before the divorce.” She looked outside again. “I haven’t spoken to my father since the day we moved, and I think a part of me believed that I’d get the chance when I got here.”

“I’m assuming you haven’t talked to him, have you?” Spike asked quietly, unsuccessfully masking his pity for her.

‘God knows my father wasn’t around either,’ he thought bitterly. ‘How come some men just up and leave their families? Is there no such thing as the sanctity of marriage anymore?’

“No,” she answered, sighing. “Apparently he’s moved since then a couple of times, and I haven’t been able to track down a permanent phone number or address.” She paused. “But it’s okay. I haven’t needed him since I got here. I found my job within a week, and I’ve been able to support myself on what I make.”

“You don’t really strike me as the type of girl who’d work at Miss Kitty’s Boudoir,” he said, sneaking a glance at her before his eyes returned to the road.

“No, I’m really not that type at all,” she said, shrugging. “But it’s good money, and it’s not as bad as it could be.”

“Even though you have to compromise your values daily?” he asked. She looked at him. “Morals outweigh money, pet. Don’t ever let money come in the way of your beliefs.”

“Even if I’m living in a box?” she asked, her tone surprisingly light. He frowned. “Which I’m not, by the way. I live in an apartment close by work.”

Another long moment of silence followed, and Spike had a few more questions he wanted to ask, but he wanted to hold off on them for a while until she was more comfortable with him. He looked at his watch and frowned.

“So, what would you like for dinner, Miss Buffy…” he trailed off, realizing he didn’t know her last name.

“Summers,” she filled in, smiling. He raised an eyebrow as he began processing the new information.

‘Summers?’ he asked himself. ‘No, that’s not possible. He doesn’t have a daughter.’ He paused. ‘Does he?’

“Buffy?” he asked, looking at her with an odd expression. She looked back at him. “Is your father Hank Summers?” She raised an eyebrow, surprised.

“Yeah, why?” she asked, noticing how Spike’s eyes widened. “Do you know him?”

“Know him?” Spike asked incredulously, willing himself not to freak out. “He’s my bloody boss.”
***************************************************************************



 

Chapter 3:

“Excuse me?” Buffy asked, not believing it, staring at him, praying he was lying.

‘But why would he joke about that?’ she asked herself, turning her attention back outside. ‘My father is Spike’s boss. He knows my dad. I don’t even know my dad anymore. I…oh god.’

“Your father is my boss,” Spike said blankly, more thoughts flooding his head and plaguing him.

“Where are you taking me?” she asked quickly, panicking.

‘He’s not going to hurt you,’ she said to herself. ‘Probably. Right? Unless he has a vendetta against my dad.’ She paused, frowning. ‘Did he know I worked at Miss Kitty’s and sought me out just to screw Hank over?’ She paused again, looking at him. ‘But then why were his friends there, and why did he not seem to know a whole lot about me? He’d have to be a damn good actor to get this far by pretending he only knew my first name.’ He looked at her for a moment, and she deduced that he legitimately had not known who she was before she told him her last name. ‘I guess that’s good, at least.’

“Well, I was going to take you to my place, but plans changed,” he replied, looking at the road again. “I’m taking you to see your dad.” Her eyes widened as fear set in.

“No!” she replied, looking at him. He raised an eyebrow. “I can’t see him. No, Spike, please don’t do this.”

“But I thought you moved to L.A. hoping that you’d come across him,” he pointed out, confused.

“Yeah, two months ago,” she said sternly. “But things have changed. I don’t want to see him, not after…” She sighed, looking outside once again. “Not after what I’ve done here.”

“Buffy, you were just trying to get by,” Spike said quietly, looking at her. She looked at him and noticed how gentle his expression was. She relaxed slightly. “But I think your dad could help you.”

“I don’t want his help,” she replied, crossing her arms. “In fact, all I want is to go back. Right now.”

“I’m not taking you back to that place,” Spike said, continuing to speed along. “You’re never going back there.”

“I can’t just quit and leave my apartment,” she said, reality finally hitting her. “It’s a nice gesture and all, and it almost seems like a dream, but it’s not possible. My life is there.”

“Like hell,” he said sharply, looking at her. She raised an eyebrow, surprised by his tone. “That’s not where your life is. You’re better than that, Buffy, and you know it.” She blushed slightly, looking away. “Hank can help you out, luv. He can get you a place to stay, money, even a job. All you have to do is talk to him.”

“I don’t want to see him again,” she said forcefully, looking at Spike. “I don’t want my father’s help. Take me back. Please.”

“Buffy, I can’t let you go back to that life,” he said sadly, not willing to look at her. “You can get back on track. I can help you. So can Hank. Just let us help you out, pet.”

‘But if I see Hank, he’s going to find out about what I’ve done,’ she thought, briefly shutting her eyes. ‘He won’t want to help me. He’ll think I’m a whore, which isn’t exactly a lie.’ She paused. ‘I can’t let him find out. Ever.’

“Please take me back, Spike,” she said quietly, looking at him. “Please. I just want to go back.”

“Yet again, I’m not taking you back there,” he said, becoming angry that she wanted to return to work. “I’ve got an extra bedroom in my apartment. You can stay there until we find you your own place. I’ll help you start your life over again, luv. Except this time, you’ll be happy.”

‘He makes it sound so easy,’ she thought, uncrossing her arms and sighing quietly. ‘I wish it was.’ She paused, realizing he wanted her to stay with him. ‘Us living together for a bit? I don’t even know him.’ She looked at him. ‘But he’s saving me. He can’t be bad. Hopefully.’ Spike noticed that she was quiet for a while and noticed the pensive look on her face, realizing she probably wasn’t comfortable with the thought of staying with a stranger.

“Or if you’d like, we can get you a hotel room,” he offered. She took a deep breath and shrugged.

“Your place is fine,” she replied, seeing the look of relief in his eyes.

‘I just don’t understand why he’s doing this for me,’ she thought. ‘Not that there’s anything wrong with being a Good Samaritan, but it doesn’t make a whole lot of sense when his three friends are back at Miss Kitty’s and are having a good time with a few of my co-workers.’ She swiftly decided not to approach the topic yet, figuring that he probably didn’t understand why he was doing this, either.

“Spike?” she asked, waiting for him to look at her for a brief moment. “You won’t tell Hank I’m in L.A., will you? And you won’t tell him about Miss Kitty’s at all, right?” He hesitated.

“Fine,” he replied. “If that’s what you want, pet. But he’s bound to find out eventually, don’t you think?” She shrugged.

“I guess I’ll wait and see,” she said, focusing on the side of the road again. He nodded.

“So, I was thinking of taking off this week,” he said, somewhat looking at her. “You know, take you out shopping, maybe help you find a new job and an apartment.” She smiled softly as she turned to face him.

“Are you sure you can spare that much time off?” she asked. He smiled back at her and nodded. “Thank you, Spike. You don’t know how much I appreciate this.” She finally felt herself relax completely, realizing that she’d get the chance to start over again.

‘But it’ll be right this time.’
***************************************************************************

Chapter 4:

When they finally arrived at Spike’s apartment, he noticed that she seemed a lot calmer than she had in the car.

‘Maybe she’s warming up to me,’ he thought, trying not to smile. ‘Keep a level head, mate. You’re just trying to help her. Remember that. This is strictly a platonic relationship. And don’t forget the fact that you hardly know anything about her.’ He paused. ‘And don’t forget she’s Hank’s daughter. That should keep you on your toes, now shouldn’t it?’

He opened the door and let them in, and he saw Buffy’s expression as she looked around the spacious apartment. “Don’t like it, luv?” She looked at him, her eyes wide.

“It’s beautiful,” she said, going back to surveying her new surroundings. He smiled and put his keys down on a table beside the door. “You must be a really good lawyer.” He couldn’t help but chuckle.

“I’m a very fortunate bloke,” he replied, studying her for a moment.

‘She really does look like she’s 18,’ he thought. ‘I can’t imagine resorting to working at a place like Miss Kitty’s to survive. She’s a tough girl, that’s for sure.’

“And you live all by yourself?” she asked, looking down the hallway off to the side and counting four doors.

“Not anymore,” he said. She looked at him, smiling. “Want to see your room?” She nodded, and he saw how excited she looked.

‘Like a kid in a bloody candy store,’ he said to himself. ‘I’m assuming she hasn’t lived in a place like this before. Well, definitely not as of late. But I would expect that she grew up in a nice house, especially having a guy like Hank as her father.’ He frowned. ‘If he was my father, I would’ve run away the first chance I could. The poor girl has probably never had a good father figure around.’ He paused. ‘But neither have I.’ By the time he snapped out of his thoughts, Buffy was way ahead of him, looking into the first room she came upon.

“Books, a desk, a computer…please don’t tell me this is your idea of a recreation room,” she joked, smiling at him. He laughed and walked over to her.

“Who’d have thought you’d be funny, pet?” he replied, and she playfully punched his arm, scowling. “Hey! You’re a guest, and guests don’t hurt their host. Unless they approve of it, of course.” She looked at him funny. “I can’t wait to hear the stories Angel and Gunn will have after their appointments with your colleagues, luv. Angel deserves every bruise he gets. And Gunn, well, he can handle himself.” She giggled and moved on to the next open door. “That’s the bathroom.” He noticed how her eyes darted around it. “What’s wrong?”

“It’s the size of my bedroom back home,” she said in awe. He stifled a chuckle and led her to the next room. “Is this mine?” Spike nodded and flicked on a light switch. “It’s all black and white.”

“I like simple sophistication,” he shrugged. She walked in and looked around, taking in the queen-sized bed, dresser, empty walk-in closet, flat-screen TV, cordless phone, and a balcony off to the side. “Is this okay?”

“It’s perfect,” she said quietly, going to the balcony doors. “And this is considered your guest room?”

“Yeah,” he answered, leaning against the doorframe. “I don’t ever really have guests, but I figure I had the space, so why not make it into one?” She looked at him, and he smiled at the happy expression on her face. “Feel free to make yourself at home. The refrigerator is fully stocked, but if there’s anything you want, just tell me. I take showers at six in the morning, so you can use it any other time. I tend to smoke, but if that’s a problem, I can do it outside. Use anything you’d like, and if you need anything at all, just ask. We can go out shopping and get you everything you need tomorrow.”

“Spike, I can’t express how grateful I am for all of this,” she said, giving him a soft smile.

‘Sure you can,’ he thought before quickly dismissing it. ‘Not a good idea, mate.’

“Is there anything you’re going to need from your apartment?” he asked. “Anything valuable or sentimental?”

“Just clothes,” she shrugged, looking at the view through the glass doors of the balcony. “I left everything that meant something to me in Sunnydale. It was just easier to move without it all.” He looked at her sadly. “But it’s all for the best. At least I know my mom will take care of everything.” She paused. “Unless Ted got rid of it.” He saw that her fists clenched slightly and walked over to her. “I’m just happy I’m away from there. Even if it means losing my mom and friends.”

“You didn’t lose them, Buffy,” he said, gently placing his hand on her shoulder. She looked at him. “You can still talk to them.”

“Maybe I will someday,” she replied, shrugging. “But not until I’m at a good place in my life.” She sighed.

‘And if all goes the way I want it to, you’ll be at a good place in no time,’ he thought.

“So, I was thinking of maybe ordering in pizza for dinner,” he said. “Does that sound okay?”

“Sure,” she smiled. “I’m famished.” She giggled quietly. “I should probably warn you, I can eat a lot.”

“Somehow, I highly doubt that,” he smirked, looking at her thin frame.

“Trust me, buddy, I can,” she said, blushing slightly at his appraising glance. “I have high metabolism.”

“Well, we’ll see how much you eat, luv,” he replied. “Or are you politely trying to convince me to order two pizzas?”

“Just call me Miss Piggy,” she grinned, leaving the room and heading towards the kitchen. Spike smirked, watching her walk away.

‘Can I be Kermit?’ he asked himself, following her after a moment. She had a phone in her hand, waiting for him patiently.

“And you’re a bossy chit, too, aren’t you?” he joked, taking the phone from her. She punched his arm again. “Oww! I think you’re going to leave a bruise pretty soon.”

“Maybe I should’ve warned you that I leave bruises, too,” she grinned, winking at him before sitting on the couch.

‘If she’s the one giving them, then sign me up,’ he thought, smirking and dialing the number to order pizza.
***************************************************************************

Chapter 5:

Buffy woke up at nine the next morning to her cell phone ringing beside her bed. She sat up, still feeling groggy, looking at the clock and frowning.

‘I only got three hours of sleep,’ she realized, laying back down on her pillow. ‘I should’ve known something like this would happen. An almost sleepless night thinking of the good-looking blonde one room over, completed by an erotic dream of said blonde. And it’s all capped off by a phone call.’ She grabbed it when her ring-tone became unbearable to listen to. ‘Mental note- change that.’ She looked at who the caller was- Faith. ‘Yep, my morning is now complete.’ She opened her phone and pretended to sound both cheery and alert.

“Hello, Faith,” Buffy said, propping up her pillows more so she’d be sitting upright. “How are you?”

“Five by five, B,” Faith answered. Buffy made a face, knowing Faith’s answer before she even asked the question.

‘What the hell does that mean?’ Buffy thought. ‘Why can’t she have a normal answer like everyone else? I hate when she says that. It’s the stupidest phrase I’ve ever heard.’ She paused. ‘Creative, but stupid.’

“So, what can I do for you at 9:07 in the morning?” Buffy asked, looking out her balcony doors at downtown L.A. surrounding her, a smile on her face.

“Well, blondie, I saw you run off with the Billy Idol clone yesterday while I nabbed his friend Angel, who by the way was flawless…well, until I was done with him,” Faith replied, sounding proud of herself. “And then you didn’t show up at your apartment this morning, so I’ve got to know- are you still with the hottie?”

“Well, actually, I’m kind of…staying here,” Buffy answered. She knew she was going to have fun explaining everything.

“So, you’re what, dating him?” Faith asked, sounding surprised. “Or did you just spend the night with him?”

“Neither,” Buffy answered. “I…I’ve decided to quit Miss Kitty’s, and Spike offered to help me.”

“And why would you quit?” Faith asked, shocked. “It’s a great gig with benefits and a high salary.”

“Because it’s not me,” Buffy answered. “I’m not that girl, Faith. I want to make a life for myself, maybe get enough money to send myself to college. And I want to make my salary doing something legitimate, legal.”

“And you think your blondie bear will help you get where you want to be?” Faith asked in a mocking tone. “You don’t think he’ll want reimbursement for his good deeds?”

“He’s not like that,” Buffy answered defensively, suddenly much more awake. “He’s a good man.” Thoughts instantly flooded her head.

‘She’s not right, is she? Spike wouldn’t just be helping me and letting me stay here because he thinks he can sleep with me, right? No…he’s not like that, Buffy.’ She paused, frowning. ‘You’ve known him for less than 24 hours. God knows what he’s capable of or what his plans are.’ She sighed and decided to go with her intuition. ‘Until he proves otherwise, I think he’s a genuinely good guy.’ She heard Faith’s laugh on the other line.

“Good men need sex, too, B,” Faith replied. “Especially ones who are shacking up with a professional whore.”

“Know from experience?” Buffy asked, an edge to her voice, not willing to let Faith get to her.

“Good to hear you haven’t lost your snappy comebacks in your quest to change,” Faith said, still laughing. “You can leave the business, but it’ll still be a part of you. No matter what happens, you’ll always be one of us. You’ll always remember what you did, and it’ll never go away, B. Never.”

“I bet I can write off my two months faster than your two years, Faith,” she said sharply, not backing down. “I did it to get by, to survive. And you might’ve started out that way, too, but now you’re just stuck in it. You hate everyone who’s walked away from it and made something of themselves. You’ll always be a whore, Faith, and maybe that’s what you deserve. But I won’t be. I’m better than that, better than you.” Buffy hung up with a satisfying click, filled with a new sense of hope and confidence.

‘Hopefully that’ll knock the bitch down a bit,’ she thought, grinning and putting the phone aside.

* * *

When Spike woke up at 8:45 AM, he instantly called into work. After a couple of rings, Cordelia answered. “I’m afraid I’m not coming in today, luv. Actually, I need the week off.”

“Why? Because of the case?” she asked. “I would’ve thought Miss Kitty’s Boudoir would have alleviated all of the left-over stress.”

‘Well, in a sense, it kind of did,’ he thought, smiling. ‘I gained a much more likable project to focus on.’

“Can you just mark it down somewhere that I’m on vacation for the week?” Spike asked, getting out of bed.

“Sure,” she replied. “I guess I’ll see you next Monday then.” He smiled at the thought of having off.

“And thanks again for setting up my appointment for me,” he said before hanging up.

‘I have a feeling I’ll be bloody thankful for the rest of my life,’ he thought, exiting his room to get into the shower.

After he finished, he opened the door to head back to his room, only covered from the waist-down by a towel. As he stepped out, he knocked into Buffy, causing her to stumble back a bit. He grabbed her arm to try to stabilize her, almost losing his hold on his towel in the process. He saw Buffy blush instantly, although she didn’t stop herself from looking up and down his body. Spike unconsciously licked his lips while noticing her perusal and felt a stirring below his towel as images of him and Buffy in flagrante swirled through his head.

‘Bad thoughts,’ he instantly chided himself. ‘Especially when I’m only covered by a thin piece of terry cloth.’ He paused, stifling a smirk. ‘Although, it’d be a lot less work to get me completely starkers.’

“Sorry,” Buffy instantly apologized, focusing on something on the ground, the blush never escaping her cheeks. “I didn’t see you…sorry.” He smiled at how adorable she was when she blushed.

‘I wonder what other things would make her blush,’ he thought, studying her. ‘Again, bad idea, you wanker.’

“I thought you took showers in the morning,” she said suddenly, looking at him quizzically.

“Yeah, I usually do,” he shrugged. “I had a late start this morning. Couldn’t sleep.”

“Me either,” she replied. Little did they know, both of them were plagued by the same thoughts the night before.
***************************************************************************

 

Chapter 6:

After Buffy got out of the shower, she got dressed and looked in the mirror over the sink, giving herself a mental pep talk.

‘It’s not your fault he was only in a towel,’ she thought. ‘And yeah, you bumped into him, but it’s no big deal.’ She paused. ‘The big deal is that you stood there, openly ogling him for a while. Could you give away how you feel more, Summers? Now he probably thinks I want him, which is true, but he doesn’t need to know that. He’s just helping me out, that’s all. I shouldn’t have feelings for him.’ She frowned. ‘But why not? He’s helping me, saving me from the hell that is Miss Kitty’s.’ She sighed, combing through her hair with her fingers. ‘Spike’s just your friend. No more perverted thoughts about him, Buffy. Get it together and face him like a woman.’ She put her hand on the doorknob and smiled. ‘But he does have quite a nice body.’ She opened the door and headed towards the kitchen, smelling food. She could feel how hungry she was, and the fact her stomach was now growling every couple of minutes was a sign that she needed to eat, the sooner the better.

She was surprised to see Spike moving around the kitchen with ease, making something on the stove while pouring coffee and juice, toasting bread, and getting jelly and butter out of the refrigerator. Buffy’s eyes lit up when she saw him take out syrup.

‘I wonder what he’s making,’ she said, looking at the frying pans on the top of the stove. ‘Is that an omelet?’ Her eyes went to the other one. ‘Pancakes!’ She took a step forward, and Spike finally noticed her standing there.

“Good morning,” he said, smiling at her before moving back to the stove to flip the pancake over.

“Are we having company?” Buffy asked curiously, finally realizing how much food was being made.

“I thought you said you eat a lot,” Spike chuckled, looking at everything that was out on the kitchen’s island. “So I made everything I can actually cook for breakfast, hoping that at least one thing looks appealing to you.”

“What about cereal?” Buffy joked with a serious face. He frowned, and she saw his shoulders slump. “I’m just kidding, Spike. This is amazing.” He looked at her. “I can’t remember the last time I had any of these things for breakfast. Actually, I can’t remember the last time I had breakfast, period. Thank you.”

“You’re welcome,” he said, smiling again. “I brought in the newspaper and pulled out the employment section, along with apartment listings. I thought maybe you’d want to look through them, see if anything stands out.”

‘He’s already trying to get rid of me, isn’t he?’ she thought sadly, looking at the newspaper on the island. Spike noticed her expression and figured out what she was thinking.

“You’re free to stay as long as you’d like, Buffy,” he said, putting the omelet on a plate and setting it on the island. “I just wanted to let you look and see what’s out there. Besides, I’m sure after you’ve gotten used to living alone for the last two months that you probably wouldn’t mind the privacy again.”

‘More like he’s used to living alone and would like his privacy back,’ she thought, sitting on a stool at the island. ‘Especially after this morning. I wouldn’t blame him for wanting me out.’

“Yeah, I should probably look at my options for apartments,” she agreed, grabbing the paper and opening it up. She never noticed the sad look on Spike’s face as he watched her.

* * *

After a couple of hours at the mall, Spike and Buffy returned to the apartment, both of them laden with heavy shopping bags. Spike looked at her with an odd expression. “Are you sure you can afford all of this? I could’ve paid for everything, especially since I’m the reason you don’t have clothes here in the first place.”

“It was generous of you to offer to pay in every single store we walked in,” Buffy said, smirking at him. “But I have money, Spike. You’d be amazed at how much I got from working at Miss Kitty’s. I haven’t really had any expenses since coming to Los Angeles. Just the apartment and food, pretty much. No car, not a lot of chances to go out… I live a pretty modest life.” Spike looked at all of the bags with an amused expression. “Well, until now, I guess.” They both laughed as they carried them into the guest bedroom, putting them on the bed. “I appreciate you taking me to the mall today. And for taking off this week. It really wasn’t necessary.”

“Sure it is,” he replied, looking at her. “It would’ve been wrong to just bring you here and let you do everything on your own. I offered to help you, and that’s what I’m going to do.” She smiled at him, and Spike felt the overwhelming urge to kiss her suddenly.

‘You can’t, mate,’ he said to himself. ‘She’s just a young woman that needs to be put on the right track.’ He paused. ‘A young woman who happens to be your boss’ daughter. Hank would fire me if anything happened to her. For that matter, he’ll probably fire me as soon as he finds out I had her staying here. Bloody hell.’

“Spike?” she asked quietly, looking at him. “I really appreciate all of this. I can’t say it enough.”

“You’re welcome, pet,” he said, trying to ignore what he was thinking, but it was worthless. His hand reached out and cupped her cheek, his thumb slowly grazing over her soft skin. She shut her eyes for a moment, reveling in the contact. He leaned down and pressed a chaste kiss to her lips before backing away quickly.

‘I can’t believe I just did that,’ he thought. ‘Not that I wouldn’t mind really kissing her, but…bollocks.’

“I…I’m sorry,” he said, not willing to look at her. “I’ll be in the kitchen.” He turned around and instantly left her room. Buffy watched him, confused.

‘What the hell was that all about?’ she asked herself. ‘I mean, the kiss was a nice surprise, but why did he look so freaked out?’ She sighed and sat on her bed, surrounded by shopping bags. ‘Perhaps because you’re a whore that he doesn’t want to get involved with. He’s just helping you- how many times do you have to remember that before it sinks in? Nothing’s going to happen between you two, okay? He’s your friend, so stop deluding yourself already.’ She paused. ‘I can’t just let this go.’ She walked out of her room and went to the kitchen, seeing him sitting at the island, his face buried in his hands.

“Wait, why are you sorry?” she asked, crossing her arms. He looked at her and took a deep breath.
***************************************************************************

 

Chapter 7:

“Because I shouldn’t have done that,” Spike answered, looking down. “It was wrong of me, and I’m sorry.”

“Will you stop saying that?” Buffy asked, unsuccessfully masking her frustration. He looked at her, confused.

“Buffy, nothing can happen between us. You realize that, right?” Spike asked, not wanting to believe it himself. Although Buffy had told herself that several times, it still hurt to hear it from him. “You’re an amazing girl, and I want us to be friends, but you’re Hank’s daughter. If you and I ever were together…I don’t know what he’d do.”

‘So he’s picking his job over any possibility of being with me,’ she thought sadly. ‘Not that I blame him. He probably loves it there and is doing well for himself- he deserves what he has. I’m just hindering him as it is already. Why would he choose some girl he’s known for less than 24 hours over his career? Way to be selfish, Buffy.’

“You’re right,” Buffy said, willing herself to make it sound sincere. She noticed a hint of sadness flicker in Spike’s eyes before he looked away, nodding slightly. “Can I ask you a question, Spike?” He nodded, not looking at her. “And please be honest. None of this has to do with the fact I worked at Miss Kitty’s, does it?”

“What?” he asked, confused, looking at her. “Why would this have anything to do with that?”

“I just…I thought that maybe you didn’t like me because I worked there,” she said, looking down. He approached her and tilted her chin up so that he could look at her.

“I’m not going to judge you for working there, luv,” he said quietly. “I understand why you did it, and I know you’re not the type of girl that would work there for fun. Trust me when I say that I don’t think less of you.” Hearing him say that made her happy and feel somewhat relieved, even though she still had her reservations.

‘But what guy would honestly want a girl who worked at a place like Miss Kitty’s Boudoir? It’s like dating a prostitute- how many normal, stable guys do that?’ she thought sadly. ‘He may not judge me or think less of me, but I’m sure the thought of dating a girl who was a full-time whore isn’t appealing.’

“So it’s about Hank then?” she asked. He nodded slightly, in disbelief that he was trying to keep them apart because of his boss.

‘I don’t see why I even care so much about Hank’s opinion,’ he thought. ‘The guy’s a right bastard. I don’t owe him anything.’ He paused. ‘Except the fact he gave me a job. A great job, to be exact. I’d love to screw him over somehow, but he helped me out.’ He paused again. ‘And I plan on returning the favor by helping Buffy. I owe him that much, at least.’ He heard the phone ring and went to go grab it.

“So, we’re friends then?” Buffy asked, looking at him with a neutral, unreadable expression. He nodded. “I’ll let you get that. I’ll be in my bedroom, figuring out why I bought three pairs of jeans that all look alike.” He smiled slightly and watched her disappear down the hallway, going into her room.

‘I better be rewarded sometime for holding myself back,’ he thought, picking up the phone.

* * *

“Hello?” Spike asked, sitting on a stool and noticing that the newspaper section posting available apartments had several circles around individual listings.

‘So she really is going to move out,’ he thought sadly.

“Hey, man,” Charles Gunn said. Spike frowned, realizing that he hadn’t talked to any of his friends in the last day.

‘Since so many things changed in my life.’

“So, I heard you’re off on vacation-leave this week,” Gunn said. “And you skipped out early after the Miss Kitty’s hootenanny yesterday, which leads to more questions I have, but what’s going on? The Spike I know never takes days off, let alone a week. I remember you having a pretty wicked fever last year and not letting yourself go home until every last detail was finished up on a case. So unless you’re really dying, something’s going on.”

“Yes, something’s going on,” Spike said, deciding to look at what Buffy had circled.

‘That one’s on the other side of L.A.,’ he frowned, crossing it out and writing the word “dangerous” over it.

“Going to tell me what the big news is then?” Gunn asked. “Because, for once, I’m actually curious to hear details.”

“Remember that girl I was set up with yesterday?” Spike asked, crossing out another apartment listing.

‘Why aren’t any of these close by?’ he thought, scanning through more options.

“Yeah, the blonde bombshell,” Gunn replied, a hint of mischief in his voice. “What happened?”

“It’s a long story, but she’s here,” Spike answered, trying to figure out what to tell his friend.

‘Can’t ever mention that she’s Hank’s daughter. It’ll get out, and more chaos will ensue,’ he thought.

“What do you mean? She’s in your apartment?” Gunn asked, confused.

“Yeah,” Spike said. “She’s staying with me until she gets her own place.”

“Whoa, time to fill in some gaps here, Spike,” Gunn said. “I don’t understand what’s going on.”

“The girl, Buffy, quit her job and decided that she wanted to start her life over again, so I offered to help her out and have her stay here until things settle down more,” Spike tried to explain, being cautious about what he disclosed.

“So you’re saying that you’ve got the girl from Miss Kitty’s as your temporary roommate?” Gunn asked.

“Yeah,” Spike replied, noticing that he’d crossed out all but two apartments.

“She must’ve been pretty good if you’re so willing to help her out,” Gunn laughed. “Are you getting it free then while she’s with you?” Spike suddenly got very defensive.

“Her and I haven’t slept together,” Spike said sternly. “Not yesterday at Miss Kitty’s, not ever. She’s a great woman, and I’m just trying to help her out.”

“But you two are going to sleep together sometime, aren’t you?” Gunn asked, sounding surprised.

“I don’t know,” Spike answered honestly. “It’s not my top priority right now.”

‘But it’s in the top ten,’ he thought before frowning. ‘She agreed that we’re friends now, so stop thinking about shagging her.’

“Well, I’ve got a few files to look at before I call it a day, so good luck, man,” Gunn said. “I hope you and the girl work something out. And tell her that that Kennedy chic was a bit much.”

“Didn’t like her?” Spike laughed, pushing the newspaper aside.

“She wasn’t what I was expecting,” Gunn replied, looking at his right wrist, which was still red from trying to break out of the handcuffs Kennedy had put on him. “Bye, man.” Spike hung up and sighed.

“Well, I guess I should help my ‘friend’ get an apartment,” he muttered to himself, grabbing the newspaper and heading to Buffy’s room.
***************************************************************************

Chapter 8:

After a week’s time, Buffy had signed a lease and was ready to move into her own apartment, which happened to be in the building next door to Spike’s. They took all of her stuff over there one afternoon after ordering furniture for her new place. She let them in, and Spike looked around the fairly small apartment.

“I can’t believe I found this place,” Buffy smiled, putting down a box in the living room area. “It’s perfect.”

‘Couldn’t agree more,’ Spike thought. ‘She’s close by, the neighborhood is safe, and it won’t be nearly as difficult to check up on her.’

“Yeah, you’re lucky that the last renter here got married and moved out,” Spike said, returning her smile.

“I don’t blame him,” she said. “It’s kind of small for two people.”

‘Not like his,’ she thought. ‘His place fits two people perfectly.’ She paused. ‘But he needs his privacy, and it’s safer if we don’t live together. Much safer.’

“So, how’s work going?” Buffy asked, taking the box he was carrying from him and setting it by the others.

“Pretty well,” he answered, running a hand through his hair. “I got assigned another big case, so it’ll keep me busy.” She nodded slightly, trying to mask how sad she was that she wouldn’t be seeing him nearly as much as she had before. “And all of the guys keep asking about you.” She looked at him, raising an eyebrow.

“They know about me?” she asked. He nodded, and she started getting worried. “What’d you tell them?”

“Just that I’ve been helping you out here and that we’re friends,” he answered, shrugging. “Nothing about you being Hank’s daughter.”

‘And not how I really feel about you,’ he thought. ‘They’d never let it go if they knew, and I don’t want any of them judging her because of Miss Kitty’s. She’s better than that place.’

“Good,” she replied, sighing and looking at the stack of boxes that had accumulated throughout the day.

“Actually, speaking of the firm,” Spike began, shoving his hands in his pockets, slightly nervous. “Wolfram and Hart is having a birthday bash for Rupert Giles on Saturday.” Buffy tilted her head, looking at him. “He’s Hank’s partner.”

“Oh,” Buffy replied, looking down. “I didn’t know Dad was one of the partners. Good for him.”

‘Be careful what you say, Spike,’ he warned himself. ‘You have to approach this cautiously.’

“Yeah, since 2002,” he replied. “But I was wondering if maybe you’d want to go with me to the party.” She looked at him, surprised.

“I’d love to,” she said, and he smiled. “But I can’t.” He smile instantly turned into a frown. “I’m not ready to see Dad.”

“Hank won’t be there,” Spike said quickly. “He’s out of town.”

‘That’s not completely true- he’ll be back by Friday- but she doesn’t have to know that,’ he thought. ‘I think she’s ready to see Hank again. She’s not the girl from Miss Kitty’s anymore, and she’s making a better life for herself. Besides, I’d like to properly introduce her to the guys.’ He paused. ‘And the party’s a great opportunity for us to go out on a date, whether she thinks it’s one or not.’

“Dad’s not going to be there for his partner’s birthday?” she asked. Spike nodded, hoping she believed him. “Why does that not surprise me? Not like he was ever there for one of my birthdays.” Spike’s heart went out to her, completely understanding how horrible fathers could be sometimes.

‘I doubt my father even remembers my birthday now,’ he thought. ‘If the pillock is still alive.’

“Well, if you’d like me to go with you, I will,” she said, interrupting his thoughts. He smiled.

“Great,” he said. “It’s Saturday night at seven at the firm. I think it might be kind of a high-society party.”

“Looks like I’ll be getting a dress then,” she replied, smirking. “I love dressing up. I haven’t in a really long time.”

“I love silk,” he said, indiscreetly giving her suggestions for her dress. “Black or red, preferably.” She grinned.

“Trying to get me to dress a certain way for you?” she asked, amused. He chuckled. “I’ll see what I can find.”

“Splendid,” he replied. “It’ll be a good time, luv. The firm tends to be extravagant for parties.”

“Just the way I like ‘em,” she smiled, opening up a box. “So, are we still having movie night tonight?”

“Sure,” he said. “My place at eight?” She nodded. “If you need anything, just call. I’ll be around.”

“Thanks,” she said. He nodded and let himself out of the apartment, closing the door before leaning back against it.

‘I just hope I don’t lose her now that she’s not living with me,’ he thought, shutting his eyes briefly. ‘I can only protect her so much, and eventually, she might be too busy to see me. Especially if she starts dating someone.’ He paused, clenching both his jaw and his fists. ‘I’m sure as hell not letting that happen. As far as I’m concerned, she’s mine.’

* * *

After unpacking several boxes, Buffy mentally reviewed her schedule for the upcoming week.

‘I start working at Belinda’s Boutique on Tuesday, and my Photography class begins Wednesday night,’ she thought. ‘Some of the furniture is arriving on Thursday, which means I have to be here until it’s all brought in.’ She sighed. ‘Maybe I can go dress shopping during my lunch break on Friday. And I should make an appointment to get my hair done on Saturday. I want to look nice for Spike.’ She smiled and looked at her watch. ‘Speaking of which, I’m supposed to be there right now.’ She grabbed her keys and went over to his apartment, letting herself in with the key he gave her.

“Hey,” she smiled, seeing him making popcorn in the kitchen. He smiled, too, and poured the popped kernels into a bowl. She took a key out of her pocket and set it on the island. He looked at it with a funny expression. “It’s to my place.” He raised an eyebrow. “I just figured that I have one for here, so you should have one for mine. You know, in case of emergencies or something.” He smirked and took his keys off a hook on the wall, putting the new key on his key-ring.

“Thank you, pet,” he said, putting his keys back. “So, what’s the flick of choice tonight?”

“How about ‘Serendipity’?” she asked with a hopeful tone. He made a face. “Come on, I know you own it.”

“I do not!” he replied defensively, crossing his arms. Buffy walked over to his DVD collection and scoured through it for a moment before plucking out a case marked “Serendipity”. He blushed. “I swear that’s not mine.”

“Stop lying, you loser,” she laughed, taking the DVD out and putting it in the DVD player. “I promise not to tell anyone that you own it. It’s our little secret.” He frowned and carried the popcorn bowl over to the couch. “Besides, it’s a good movie. John Cusack is hilarious.”

“And Kate Beckinsale is beautiful,” Spike added, noticing her frown for a moment.

‘Is somebody jealous?’ he thought, delighted. ‘Not my fault the bird is gorgeous, and it only makes sense that I find British actresses attractive.’ He looked at Buffy and smiled slightly. ‘But she’s even more beautiful than Kate.’

“I’ll go grab us drinks,” she offered, heading to the refrigerator and getting a beer for him and a soda for her. As she walked back to the couch, she tried not to sigh at the thought that this would be the last night she slept in the apartment, considering the fact her bed would arrive and be assembled the following day.

‘Well, unless him and I started dating,’ she thought, stifling a giggle. ‘Maybe I’ll stay overnight here again someday.’ She paused. ‘You’re just friends, Buffy. It’s all simply platonic.’ She sat down on the couch, beside Spike.

“Ready to watch it?” he asked. She nodded, and he pressed a button to start it.

“So, do you know all of the lines by heart, too?” she joked, looking at him. He frowned and began tickling her. “Hey!” She succeeded in fighting back, getting him to shriek. “Wait, do that again!”

“What? No,” he replied, chuckling. She giggled and raised her hands in surrender, trying to calm her breathing down. He backed off and saw the faint blush in her cheeks.

‘God, she’s beautiful,’ he thought before letting his eyes travel to the TV screen. ‘And if she never figures out I love this movie, she’s perfect for me.’

* * *

About an hour into the film, Spike draped his arm across the back of the couch, and Buffy curled up against him, yawning. He raised an eyebrow, surprised that she was so willing to be that close to him.

“Do you mind if I do this?” she asked quietly, looking at him. He shook his head.

“No,” he answered. “I don’t mind if you fall asleep on me.” She smiled softly and rested her head on his shoulder.

‘Trust me, pet, I really don’t mind at all,’ he thought, smiling.

They continued to watch the movie, and eventually, he realized his fingers were playing with individual locks of her hair.

‘I love this hair,’ he thought, looking at it, admiring her highlights. ‘Especially the way it glows in the sunlight.’

Minutes later, the movie finally ended, and he realized that Buffy didn’t move or say anything. He raised an eyebrow and looked down at her, seeing that she was fast asleep. He smiled softly and gently kissed her forehead. Her eyes slowly opened, and she looked at him with a soft expression.

“I fell asleep, didn’t I?” she asked quietly. He nodded. “But I like the end. It’s so sweet.”

“We can watch the end tomorrow, kitten,” he replied, running his hand over her hair. “It’s time to get you to sleep.”

“Okay,” she said, looking down before letting her eyes return to his. “Spike?”

“Yeah?” he asked, studying her eyes. She leaned over slowly and kissed him for a second before standing up. He pulled her back down to him and kissed her more intensely, not willing to let her walk away and ignoring the warnings his conscience was supplying.

‘Screw Hank- I need this,’ he thought. ‘And this isn’t my fault- she started it.’ He was surprised when he felt her arms wrap around his neck, her body moving closer to his. She parted her lips, and he seized on the opportunity to deepen the kiss. When their tongues touched, Spike could swear nothing else existed in the world except for them. She pulled away slightly to breathe, and Spike rested his forehead against hers.

“Good night,” she whispered, getting up and walking to her room. Spike stared at her retreating form until it disappeared before sighing and covering his eyes with his hands.

‘What the bloody hell was that all about?’ he asked himself. ‘Oh right, you and her are just friends. Why did I ever agree to that? That was a lie, and after tonight, I hope she feels the same way. Please don’t let her think that kiss was a mistake.’

In her room, Buffy was sitting on her bed, thinking the same thing that Spike was.
***************************************************************************


 

Chapter 9:

By the time six o’clock rolled around on Saturday, Buffy was buzzing with excitement. After a stressful week of working and setting up her apartment, she pampered herself that morning by getting a manicure, pedicure, and her highlights redone. She came home and relaxed for awhile before curling her hair and pinning half of it up, remembering when she used to do the same thing before going out to parties with her friends.

‘I wonder how they are,’ she thought, applying make-up. ‘Maybe when things settle down more here, I can invite them to L.A. for a weekend or something. It’s been…a long time. If I didn’t have Spike, I know I would’ve been at Miss Kitty’s for a lot longer, and I’m positive I wouldn’t have even thought of contacting Willow and Xander. I couldn’t handle them knowing that I worked there. They’d think less of me.’ She sighed. ‘And I wouldn’t blame them.’ Minutes began ticking away faster, and Buffy’s nerves began to set in. ‘Is this like a date? I mean, it’s an office party, so I doubt it. It’s two friends going out to celebrate someone’s birthday. Right, not a date.’ She looked in the mirror. ‘Do you want it to be?’

“Yes,” she said quietly, biting her bottom lip. “But it’s not, so don’t get your hopes up. Just because you shared a pretty fabulous kiss a few days ago doesn’t mean that you two have moved past the friendship level.” She paused. “I can’t believe I’m talking to myself.” She walked to her room and took her dress out of its bag, holding it up to her. “Perfect.” She slid the crimson silk dress on, studying her reflection in the full-length mirror on one of the walls. The dress had spaghetti-straps and cut fairly low into her cleavage, and it reached her French-manicured toenails. “I hope he likes this.” She put on a silver necklace with a red-stoned pendant dangling from it before putting in matching earrings. As she heard a knock on the door, she slipped on her strappy red heels and walked to the door, taking a deep breath and exhaling it smoothly before turning the doorknob. Spike was waiting, wearing a black suit, a white buttoned shirt beneath it, and a crimson silk tie. The two stared at each other for a moment, openly appraising how the other looked.

‘He looks absolutely gorgeous,’ she thought, willing her jaw not to drop. ‘He always does, but I’ve never seen this side of him before. This is GQ Spike.’

“Hi,” she said, almost shyly. “You look handsome tonight.” Spike was still looking up and down her body. “Spike?”

“You look magnificent,” he said quietly, his eyes finally locking with hers. She blushed slightly, and it increased more as he pulled a single red rose out from behind his back, extending it to her. She smiled and took it from him.

“Thank you,” she said. “Let me just go put this in a vase.” He nodded and watched her walk towards her kitchen area, retrieving a vase from one of the cabinets.

‘She’ll definitely be the belle of the ball tonight,’ he thought, grinning. ‘Which just means I have to stay alert and keep every single man at the party away from her.’

* * *

After Spike handed the keys of his BMW to the valet sitting in front of the firm’s parking lot, he linked arms with Buffy, leading her to the front door and on inside. He noticed her dreamy expression as she looked around the lobby while they waited for an elevator to take them up to where the party was. “Like it, pet?”

“It’s really nice,” she answered, looking at him. “You’re lucky to work in such a beautiful building.”

“It’s even more beautiful on the nineteenth floor,” he replied. “It’s all glass, and the view is amazing at night.”

“Yeah, I bet,” she said. “Is that where we’re going?” He nodded, and she smiled. “Cool.” They got into the elevator and traveled up to the 19th floor, only to get out amongst a large crowd of people. “Wow, this is quite some party.”

“Yeah,” he agreed, surprised at how many people were gathered. “I can honestly say I didn’t expect so many people to be here.” She smiled up at him. “Just be sure to stay close to me at all times, princess. I don’t want to lose you.”

‘And I mean that in more ways than one,’ he thought. She nodded and looked around.

“Want to see if we can find some of my friends?” he asked. She nodded again, and they began to try maneuvering through the horde of people. He spotted Wesley and Gunn with two women he didn’t recognize, but as they got closer, Buffy did. “Hello, Wes, Gunn.”

“Hey,” Gunn said, smiling at the blonde couple. “And you’re the infamous Buffy.” She smiled at him. “We’ve never been properly introduced.” He extended a hand, and she shook it. “This is Gwen, my date.”

“Good to see you again, Gwen,” Buffy said, smiling at her. Gwen grinned at Buffy, and Gunn looked between the two women, surprised. “And it’s good to see you, too, Fred.” The other brunette woman smiled, and Wesley raised an eyebrow. “I’m surprised Miss Kitty’s let you two off for the night.” All three men shared a look.

“Well, it’s a special occasion,” Gwen replied. “And it seems you already know our dates, but who is yours?”

“This is Spike,” Buffy said, feeling odd that she was the one to be doing introductions at his firm’s party.

“Nice to meet you,” both Gwen and Fred said. Spike nodded in acknowledgement.

“You three all worked together?” he asked, looking at Buffy. She nodded, and he smiled. “Well, that’s convenient.” She was pushed into his side slightly by someone moving past them, but she decided not to separate herself more from him. Spike noticed and grinned before looking at his friends. “So, where’s Angel?”

“He was catching up on something quickly,” Wesley explained. “I think Cordelia might be with him.”

“She probably is,” Gunn replied. “Those two run so hot and cold.” Buffy was somewhat excited to finally meet Cordelia.

‘In essence, she’s the reason I met Spike in the first place,’ she realized, smiling slightly. ‘I owe her quite a bit.’

“Rupert and Jenny are supposed to be arriving shortly,” Wesley said, looking around the crowd. “And then I suppose the party will really begin.”

“I still can’t believe so many people showed up,” Spike said in disbelief. “Do all of these people actually know Giles, or are they just here for the free food?”

“I know I am,” Gwen laughed, causing everyone else to laugh, too. “So, Buffy, I hear you’re out of the business now?”

“Yeah,” Buffy answered, feeling Spike’s arm wrap around her waist. She settled more into his side. “It was time to move on.”

“Yeah, I’m just about there, too,” Gwen said. Fred nodded in agreement. “You’re a lucky girl, Buffy.”

“I like to think so,” she smiled, and Spike leaned down to lightly kiss her temple. It was as she looked up at him that someone bumped into Spike, causing both of them to look at who it was.

“Oh, sorry, William,” Hank Summers said before looking at the woman beside his employee. “Buffy?”

“Dad?” she asked, shocked. Spike looked between the two and wanted nothing more than to leave immediately.

‘Bloody hell, I’m screwed.’
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