A/N Enjoy the new story!!! Go leave me some reviews!!

I don't own nothing!!!! Although, I really wish I did!!!

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William 'Spike' Hamilton had everything possibly dream of. He had the perfect job, the perfect apartment, and the perfect girlfriend....Or so he thought. In less than a week, Spike's life had some how managed to spin out of control and it wasn't out of control in a good way.


Monday....

Spike made his way to the office as he normally did. He was a writer for the best selling magazine in Sunnydale, California. Well, actually he wasn't a real writer. Spike just had a small column in the magazine but his life dream was to be a writer. His specialty was poetry. No matter how he tried though, Spike couldn't convince his editor to put in a poetry section into the magazine. He knew that he would be able to share his poetry with the world someday. For now, 'Real Magazine' was the only way to pay the bills.

For some reason, he had this gut feeling that something big was going to happen to him today. He didn't know if it was going to be a good or bad thing but something was gonna happen.

" Hey, Hamilton. How was your weekend?" Xander Harris, a co-worker and long time friend, greeted.
" Nothing to brag about. How 'bout yours?"
" Had a getaway weekend with the misses."
" You lucky bloke. I wish I could get Dru to go on one of those but she's been unavailable lately." Spike complained while he poured himself his first cup of coffee for the day.
" You're still with that loon?" Xander asked incredulously. He couldn't stand that woman.
" Watch it, mate. That's my girl you're talking about." spike warned.
" Sorry. I just thought you would have gotten some sense knocked into you after what she pulled not too long ago."
" Yeah, well, she explained everything to me."
" And?"
" And we're fine now. She's changed."
" Sure. Okay. Whatever." Xander muttered. He knew that Dru was playing Spike. Xander just wondered what it would take for Spike to realize it as well.
" Whelp, just mind your own business. Everything is fine." Spike walked off towards his office before anything else could be said.

Spike was barely in his seat before his editor came into his office requesting to speak with him.

" Good morning, Snyder. What can I do for you?" Spike tried to be as polite as he possibly could to his boss but Snyder always made that hard. He was always putting him down or judging him in some way. Snyder gave Spike a hard time from day one.
" I'm afraid I have some bad news." Snyder grinned. He looked anything but upset. "The last article didn't sell as well as we hoped it would."
" What has that got to do with me?" Spike questioned with a confused and fearful expression.
" Oh, it has everything to do with you. Your little column has been slacking lately."
" What do you mean?" Spike was quickly getting angry.
" I mean it sucks!!! The office is constantly getting letters from readers requesting that your column be removed. You're making all of us look bad.
" What?!" Spike couldn't control his anger anymore.
" You heard me. Because of you, the magazine is losing sales."
" If anything, my column is the only reason this bloody magazine is still being printed." he exclaimed.
" Well, the head editor isn't seeing it that way. Some one has to pay for the lost sales and he's agreed that that person should be you." replied Snyder.
" What are you saying, Snyder? Are you firing me? Is that what this is? You're firing me, aren't you?" Spike moved around the desk right to stand in front of the evil troll.
" It was bound to happen sooner or later. I mean, did you actually think that you'd last here?
" I've lasted this long."
" Well, you know what they say: All good things must come to an end." he said with a smug grin. Spike glared at him for a moment before grabbing his duster and storming out of the office.

" Hey, Spike-Wait! Where are you going? Spike!!" Xander yelled after his friend but Spike was already gone.


Spike had never felt so pissed in his life. To make the feeling go away, he drank himself into oblivion for the rest of the day. If only he knew that his little nightmare was only going to get worse as the week progressed.

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Tuesday...

Spike woke up with the worst hangover that he had ever had. He didn't remember much from the day before but he did know that he didn't have a job anymore.

* Three years. Three sodding years I've worked for those gits and they do this to me. Well, I'll show them. I'll show them all.* he thought before making his way out of bed.

It was almost 1 in the afternoon. Spike hadn't slept this late since he was in high school. He made his way over to his answering machine and saw that there were no new messages. Spike was more than a little agitated at this news since he had been trying to get in touch with Drusilla. He didn't see or talk to her the weekend before and had left her dozens of messages yesterday.

* Obviously, she has much more better things to do than check up on me. I'll deal with her later.* Spike thought before he heard someone knock on the door. * Or maybe sooner*

" Well well well. Look who's up." Xander greeted as he walked inside. He didn't bother to wait for invitation.
Groaning, Spike closed the door and replied, " What do you want, Whelp?"
" Do you know how long I've been tryin' to reach you, man? I've been worried out of my mind. I thought something might have happened to you." Xander said seriously.
" Nice to know somebody cares." Spike muttered.
" Come to find out, you've been here the entire time." Xander began to survey the room around him. It was a complete mess. Liquor bottles were everywhere. " And from the looks of it, you had yourself a party. Did you really drink all of this? That wasn't very smart" he questioned gesturing to all of the empty bottles.
" " Yeah? I guess getting fired clouded my judgment of right and wrong ." spike replied dryly as he walked in the kitchen to make him some coffee.
" I heard about that. I'm sorry."
" What's to be sorry about, mate? I’m actually glad it happen. I was thinking of quitting anyway."
" Really?" he asked not believing a word.
" Yep. That place was just holding me back."
" What are you gonna do now?" Xander asked with interest
" I don't know yet. Maybe I'll try out my poetry thing. Write my own stuff and send it around. I'm sure someone will appreciate my talent."
" Well, if you need any help or just someone to talk to, I'm here." Xander assured.
" Thanks, mate."

KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK

" Hang on. I'm coming." Spike yelled as he made his way over to the door. He opened it. It was his landlord. " What's going on, Rupert?"
" We need to talk. May I come in?"
" Sure. Excuse the mess." Spike made room for the man to enter the apartment.
" No. It's perfectly alright. Hello, Xander." Giles greeted.
" What's up G-man?" he greeted back.
" I've asked you repeatedly to stop calling me that."
" I know."
" Whelp, can you lay off for a bit? Rupert needs to have a chat with me."
" Oh yes! Of course. I guess I'll just get straight to the point. I'm moving back to England."
" Why?" Spike questioned. In the four years that Spike had lived in the apartment, Rupert Giles had always been a friend to him. He reallly more like a father.
" I've saved up enough money to buy some property over there."
" Oh. Wow."
" You're really leaving us, Giles?" Xander cut in.
" I'm afraid so."
" When?" Spike asked.
" At the end of the week."
" That soon?!"
" Well, I would like to get there before someone else buys out the property." Giles explained.
" Will you be back?" Spike sounded like a little boy.
" Time will only tell, son." Giles answered honestly.
" Well, we'll be sad to see you go."
" Yeah, G-man. We're gonna miss ya!"Xander agreed.
" Well I do have something else that I want to make you aware of William." Giles said. Spike rarely let anyone call him by his given name.
" What is it?" he questioned. He knew the conversation was about to take a sour turn.
" There will be a new landlord for the building."
" Is that a bad thing?"
" No no. It's a good thing. It's just-" Giles cut himself off.
" Spit it out, man!" Spike said heatedly.
" He's raised the rent." Giles finished.
" He what?!" Spike yelled. " Can he do that?"
" He can do anything he wants. He owns the building." Giles explained.
" How much is it going to be raised? Xander interjected.
" $300."
" Bloody hell!! That's $800 all together. Who does he think he is? Why is he doing this?" he began pacing.
" Never really got a reason from him but I can't question him. It's his property."
" And you're just telling me about this now?" Spike glared down at him.
" I only found out yesterday. I tried calling you but you weren't home." he defended himself. " Look, I'm sorry William but you have a great job and you make decent pay. It shouldn't be a problem for you."
" I HAD a great job. Past tense." spike corrected.
" Beg your pardon."
" He got fired." Xander explained.
" Oh Will-"
" Don't. I'm fine."
" Maybe I can talk to him or something. I'm sure he'd understand and give you a break." Giles suggested.
" It's okay, Rupert. I have enough money saved up for three months rent and if I need more, I'll ask Dru." Xander cringed at the mention of Dru. " Don't start, Xander."
" I didn't say anything."
" Anyway, thanks for telling me, Rupes."
" No problem."
"Why don't we have a drink before you go?"
" I'd like that." Giles beamed. Spike walked him to the door and ushered him out.

Spike wouldn't have minded the raise in rent if he still had a job but he didn't. He would have to figure something out but later but for now he'd just ask for Dru's help. If only he could get in touch with her.

" I don't mind lending you some money for the rent, Spike." Xander offered.
" I said don't worry about it. Dru will help me."
" Are you sure about that?” he questioned skeptically.
" Look, I know you don't like her but I don't care."
" I just don't trust her man."
" Well, that's not your job. Your job is t be my friend." Spike exclaimed. Xander had the decency to look ashamed.
" You're right. I'm sorry. I just don't want you to get hurt."

Spike spent the rest of the day trying to get in touch with Dru but failed miserably. He gave up the search later on that night and promised himself that he'd deal with it tomorrow.

*Everything will be better tomorrow.* he thought before drifting off to sleep.

Only if that were true…..

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Wednesday....

Spike had had enough. He couldn't find Drusilla anywhere and was starting to thing that she was purposely avoiding him. After trying to call her house for the billionth time, Spike decided to just go over and make her talk to him.

Spike had a key so he casually let himself into the house. There were candles everywhere, light slow music was playing and two plates of food were sitting on the table. Spike thought briefly that Dru had been planning something for the both of them but got rid of that thought as soon as he saw that the plates of food had already been eaten. The champagne glasses were empty too.

* What the bloody hell is going on?* he thought. His question was answered with a loud moan that echoed through the house from the bedroom. Spike walked slowly to the room, in fear of what he was going to see. Once he reached the door, another moan sounded and Spike had no doubt that it was Dru. He knew her voice anywhere. Spike took a deep breath and barged in. He nearly gagged on what his eyes saw.
Dru was straddling some guy while he was handcuffed to the bedpost. Dru was dressed in all leather and the man underneath her was blindfolded.
" Dru?!"
" Spike?! Honey! Umm...this isn't what it looks like." Dru lied terribly while getting off of the man underneath her. Spike cringed at the man's nakedness.
" Oh really? I think it looks like you're fucking someone else." He yelled. Spike remained standing. He wanted so badly to lunch at them both but he was afraid of what he might do if he did .
" It was just a one time thing, my Spike. He wasn't even that good." Dru replied but she still made no attempt to get off the bed.
"What?! That's not what you said all this weekend. According to you, I rocked your world." the man declared. He was still tied up and blindfolded.
" You're not helping matters, Brian. Shut. Up." Dru said between clenched teeth.
" So this is why I couldn't get in touch with you for five bloody days, Dru?" Realization was hitting Spike like a ton of bricks. " You’ve been screwing another bloke!!"
" Well, actually we've been together for about four months." the man corrected.
" Shut up, Brian!!!" Dru shouted
" No it's okay. I'll just let myself out. You two enjoy your romantic evening." Spike spat before turning to exit the house. He heard Dru's cries of protest but didn't turn back. He couldn't. He wouldn't. Xander was right.

How did things get so messed up????????


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Chapter 2:

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Buffy Summers was getting out of a cab when she spotted her best friend Willow waling toward her.

" Hey, Buffy" Willow beamed.
" Hey yourself." she returned. The two of them hugged when they got close enough.
" I can't believe you're here."
" I know. It's been like ages since I've seen you." Buffy replied when they let go of one another.
" How was your drive?" Willow questioned as she helped Buffy with her bags. They made their way up to Willow's apartment .
" I slept most of the way over but it was nice. Kind of bumpy though." she complained.
" Well I'm glad you're here."
" Yeah. Me too." Buffy followed Willow inside and took in the sight of what she saw.

The place was small but comfortable. There were lots of pictures throughout the living room. The furniture was small but enough. There wasn't a TV set like most people had but that didn't surprise Buffy. Willow wasn't much of a TV person anyway. The kitchen was to the left and it looked like the bedrooms were straight ahead.

" Home sweet home." Buffy muttered.
" Yeah. I know it's not what your probably used to but-"
"It's fine, Will. I love it. Thank you so much for welcoming me into your home. You don't know what it means to me." Buffy said sincerely.
" Don't worry about it, Buffy. It's good that your here. I missed you." Willow sat Buffy's bags down next to the couch and motioned for her to sit down.
" I missed you too." Buffy said as she sat down.
" Now are you going to tell me what happened? You weren't exactly much with the details when we talked over the phone last night."
" Oh. That."
" That bad?" Willow asked
" I wish. Bad doesn't even seem to cover it."
" What happened?"
Buffy took a deep breath before revealing her news. " Riley and I broke up."
" Oh goddess. Why?" Willow leaned in to comfort Buffy.
" It just wasn't working out, Will. He was just trying to get me to be someone that I wasn't and I got fed up with it."
" What do you mean?" she questioned.
" Riley wanted me to be the ' stay at home girlfriend' type. He wanted me to cook and clean while he made all of the important decisions in our lives. It was like what I wanted didn't matter but when it came to him and his needs I was always expected to give into them. I just couldn't take it anymore, Will." Buffy explained.
" I'm so sorry, Buffy. I thought the two of you were so happy the last time I saw you ." Willow began rubbing comforting circles on Buffy's back.
" I thought we were too."

Buffy had met Riley three years ago when she moved to LA for college. They were friends at first but after Riley's constant pushing for Buffy to go out with him, they became more. It wasn't supposed to last as long as it did but it did. Riley was safe and secure. For some reason, Buffy needed that. After a while the 'safe and secure' card got old and boring. Buffy wasn't sure when it happened but Riley started turning into a controlling asshole. He was always telling her what was best for her and how she should do things. He had to know her every move and if he didn't, he'd freak out with unneeded worry. It got on her last nerve.

Buffy wasn't even sleeping with him but Riley seemed to be okay with that. He already treated her like property anyway. He never pressured her or anything but he she could tell that he didn't always agree to her 'no sex rule'. Buffy, however, wasn't one to be moved. After her first and last sexual experience, she swore to ignore the sexual part of a relationship until he could be truely trusted.

The last straw was pulled when Riley made Buffy decide between the rest of her life and his career. Riley was recruited into the police force in Washington D.C and wanted Buffy to go with him.

" He just expected me to give up everything and take off with him."
" He didn't!" Willow gasped.
" He did and when I didn't want to he made some big noise about me always holding him back. That's when I went clean off. Me? Holding him back? I was the one that took off a semester of school to be his 'moral support' while he trained. I was the one put MY life on hold to follow him around LA so he could make something of himself. He never gave a thought to what I wanted. He just....assumed." Buffy finished with a sigh.
" I'm sorry." Willow repeated once more.
" Don't be. To be honest, I'm glad it turned out this way. I cared about Riley but I don't think I could ever really love him. I'm better off."
" Not that I'm not glad you’re back because I am but why move all the way back to Sunnydale?" Willow questioned a little confused.
" I wanted to start over. LA reminded me too much of the life I had with Riley. I don't want that. I want MY life back." Buffy answered.
" Well, that's good and if there's anything I can do, let me know."
"You're already doing enough, Will. I promise not to be here longer than a week. I have enough money saved up for an apartment. Al l I have to do is find one and I'll be out of your hair."
" Stay as long as you need to. No rush." Willow assured. " It'll be like old times, you know, you sleeping over. Hey! We can even have a girls night in!" she beamed.
" I really did miss you, Will." Buffy smiled at her friend before embracing her in a big hug.

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Buffy lay in her bed after her and Willow's girls night. They talked and caught up on old times. Willow told Buffy about her 'coming out' and Buffy was completely cool with it. On some deep level, Buffy knew. They talked about Willow's girlfriend Tara and Buffy was really excited to meet her. They watched movies and pigged out on ice cream. Willow was right. It was just like old times.

As Buffy looked up at the ceiling of her room, she wondered if she had made a mistake when she broke up with Riley. In her gut, it felt right. They just weren't on the same level anymore. He wanted her to be the girl of his dreams and she wasn't.

Before Buffy's mom died four years ago, one of the many things she told her was to be true to who she was and to not compromise herself for anyone, especially a man. Buffy knew she did the right thing. She was finally free and able. It felt right but there was one question that plagued her mind.

What happened next????

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Chapter 3:

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Spike should have known. It was staring him clear in the face. Why hadn't he realized it sooner? Xander even tried to convince him but he wouldn't listen because he loved her. He CARED about her. As hurt as Spike was, he couldn't cry or yell. He didn't have the strength to. Deep down he knew that Dru wasn't his. She couldn’t allow herself to be tied down to one person for the rest of her life. Spike had asked her countless times to marry him but she refused. Giving up excuses like "It's too soon" or "Why mess up what we have now."

He should have know.

" I'm really sorry, Spike." was all Xander could say to comfort his friend. Spike had showed up on Xader's doorstep about an hour ago and told him what he had just walked in on. Xander knew that Dru was cheating on Spike but it still surprised him when his suspicions were finally confirmed.
" I thought this was what you wanted. After all, you couldn't stand 'er." Spike argued.
" True but I never wanted you to get hurt. You didn't deserve to get hurt." Xander answered calmly.
" Too late. The damage has already been done." pauses with a bitter chuckle. " This has been a really fucked up week and the funny thing is it's only Wednesday."
" What are you gonna do about the apartment?" Xander changed the subject.
" I don't know." sighs " I have some money saved up for this and next months rent but after that, I’m screwed."
" I can lend it to you until you get back on your feet." he offered.
" What if I don't get back on my feet? I can't just barrow large amounts of money from you. I'll just have to come up with something."

The two man sat down in silence for a few moments before a light went off in Xander's head.

" I got it!!" he exclaimed.
" What?" Spike questioned.
" Why don't you get a roommate? You both could have on the rent that way you wouldn't have to worry about barrow money from anyone." Xander suggested.
" Bloody hell, Whelp! I'm not gonna share my digs with another bloke. I have a hard enough time dealing with you as it is."
" I didn't say it had to be another guy." Xander replied with a smirk. Spike just stared at him in confusion before realization hit.
" You mean me live with another woman?"
" It's perfect. The rent would be taken care of and you might even make a new friend in the process."
" Not really looking to make any new female friends anytime soon, mate." he muttered.
" Ok but the roommate thing is still a good idea."
" How would I even go about looking for a roommate?"
" You could put an ad in the paper and go through the whole interviewing process. I'll even help." at Spike's doubtful look, Xander tried again. " Come on, Spike. What have you got to loose?"
" Okay. Let's do it." Spike gave in.

Later on that night, Spike called the newspaper and requested an ad to be put in before they went to the printers. He hoped that Xander's idea worked. Spike didn't know if he could take anymore bad news.

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Buffy started off her day with a blueberry muffin and a cup of orange juice. She didn't remember the last time she slept so well.

" Morning, Buffy." Willow greeted with a yawn.
" Morning. Sleep well?"
" Yep." the redhead replied as she got the morning paper from the doorstep. " Let's see what's going on in Sunnydale today."
" I think I might go apartment hunting today." Buffy commented as she washed out her cup.
" I told you, Buffy. You don't have to rush with that. I don't mind having you here."
" Yeah but for how long?" Buffy muttered not realizing that Willow had heard her.
" For as long as you need." Willow promised. Buffy gave up a shy but grateful smile.
" Thanks, Will but I'm still gonna see if I can find something. Hey! Maybe there's some vacancies in the paper. Can I see that when you're done?"
" You can have it now. I'm gonna go take a shower and get dressed. I'm meeting Tara." Willow replied with a smile.
" You two have a date?"
" I can cancel if you want. I didn't think you'd mind but-" Willow tried to suggest.
" Don't be silly. Go have your fun. I be fine." Buffy cut in.
" Are you sure?"
" Positive. Go. Get out of here." she shooed her away teasingly.
" Oookay. Have fun with your hunt." Willow said as she made her way her room to get ready.

Buffy turned her attention to the newspaper and searched for apartment vacancies. After ten minutes of looking, she found absolutely nothing. Everything she did see was either cost too much or wasn't in the right part of town. Almost giving up hope, Buffy spotted an ad that met her requirements.

ROOMMATE NEED!!!!
RENT $400 A MONTH
TWO FULL BATHROOMS
SPACIOUS BEDROOM
GREAT NEIGHBORHOOD
INTERESTED????
CALL 355-8888 OR
COME BY 1100 PROSPECT PLACE
ASK FOR WILLIAM HAMILTON

"Bingo! Hey, Will!!! I found something!" Buffy yelled through the house.

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Two days later, Spike had more than a dozen potential roommates lined up. Xander was there at his apartment to help out like he promised. The interviewing process wasn't as easy as they thought it would be.

" What do you do for a living?" Xander asked the woman. She had long black hair, her make-up was dark, and her wardrobe was in all black. Piercing were placed in every visible part of her body.
" I worship Satan." was the reply.
" Next!!" Spike interjected.

" Do you have any references?" Spike asked the giddy young woman sitting in front of him. She looked like a teenager on speed. She just couldn't keep still.
" Well, you could call my mom but she's out of the country on business."
" We were thinking-" Xander tried to cut in.
" Or you could call my employer at work. He's sort of a jerk so he'll probably tell you not to let me move in here. He's always riding me." the girl was talking a mile a minute. "He never gives me a chance. Have you ever had that happen to you? It's happened to me all my life. I just wish people WOULD GIVE ME A CHANCE!!!" she yelled. Spike and Xander just stared at her in shock
" We'll call you." Spike lied but didn't want to witness another outburst from the girl. He just wanted her to leave.
" Okay. Thanks!" The girl smiled forgetting all about her little tantrum.

Spike and Xander went through five more girls. All of them weren't even close to what Spike wanted in a roommate. He was starting to believe that this was a bad idea.

KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK

" Oh bloody hell. Better gear up, Xand. Here comes another one." Spike warned. He walked over to the door, took a deep breath and plastered on a fake smile. When he opened the door, he almost had the wind knocked out of him by the beauty that he was met with.

" Hi. I'm Buffy Summers. Are you William?"

Maybe this idea wasn't so bad after all.

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Chapter 4:

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"I'm Buffy Summers. Are you William?" the beautiful goddess politely asked him.
"Y-yes. I'm William." he stuttered out.
" Great. I read you ad in the paper." Buffy stated. Spike just continued to stare at her as if he was in a trance. It was starting to make her uncomfortable." Umm...I'm not too late, am I? Did you already choose another roommate?"
" No no. I'm sorry. I just-Come on in." Spike moved and motioned for her to enter the apartment.

Buffy took in and liked what she saw. The living area was large, with a black leather couch and a black leather comfy chair. There were various paintings and works of arts scattered around. However, that wasn't the best part. Not more that three feet away, was a view that overlooked the small town. It was too die for. Buffy hadn't even seen the rest of the place yet and already she was head over heals in love with it.

" This is a nice place." she complimented.
" Thank you. Why don't I-" Spike began but before he could get the words out, Xander made his presence known.
" Did ya scare her off yet?" he questioned, not realizing said girl was still in the room.
" Xander-" Spike tried.
" I didn't know that Sunnydale was full of the loony women. It almost makes me miss your ex." Xander was still mouthing off.
"Xander!" Spike exclaimed.
" What? I said 'almost'." He suddenly noticed the woman in the room. " Oh. Hi." he greeted bashfully.
" Hi." Buffy gave up a shy smile.
" This is Buffy Summers." Spike introduced.
" Nice to meet you...."
"Xander. Xander Harris. Nice to meet you too."
" I was just about to give Buffy the grand tour of the place." Spike announced.
" Oh! You're gonna love it!. It's really a great apartment. It wasn't at first but after Spike fixed the place up and added some of his creative tastes to it, this place really shaped up." Xander continued. Spike shot him a warning glare that signaled for him to shut up. Buffy just looked at Xander questionably.
" Spike? Whose that?" she asked.
" Me. I'm Spike."
" But I thought-"
" It's just a nickname, pet. You can stick with William if you feel more comfortable." Spike ducked her gaze shyly.
" Is it okay if I call you Will?" Buffy asked with a smile that made Spike's heart melt. No one had ever shortened his name before. *This is a good sign, mate. It means she’s getting attached.*
" Sure, pet. Whatever makes you comfortable." he answered.

Xander looked at the two blondes before him and noticed the instant connection. *Well, what do we have here? I think someone has a crush.* he thought.

" How about that grand tour, Will? I dying to see the rest of this place." Buffy broke the silence that lingered between them.
" Oh. Right. Come on then." Without thinking, Spike grabbed her hand. Buffy didn't seem to mind the contact and Spike didn't have any complaints as well.

Xander followed closely behind as Spike showed Buffy the kitchen and dining area. He noticed that Spike told her about every detail of every room. Sometimes, he'd even make a joke that would result in a giggle from Buffy. He didn't do that with the others. Spike barely even looked the others in the face. He showed her the two bathrooms, making her aware of the one that would be hers if she moved in. Xander had to hold back a chuckle at Buffy's reaction.

" I get my own bathroom?" Buffy asked in excitement.
" Yep." Spike answered, pleased that she was pleased.
" Oh this is too good to be true." Buffy grinned.
" Well, you haven't seen the best part yet. Come on." Spike reached for her hand again, happy that she had no problem with the gestured and lead her to the room across from his. He opened the door and watched in silence as she took in the room before her. Moments passed before Buffy said anything. Spike feared that she was having doubts about moving in.

Buffy, once again was mesmerized by the sight before her. The ad wasn't kidding when it said that the room was spacious and the view was just as good as the one in the living room. Gray carpet covered the floors and a large walk in closet was at left. She began to imagine where everything would go. It was perfect. This is where she belonged.

Buffy turned to Spike with a bright smile and said. "I'll take it."

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Spike was beyond thrilled that Buffy decided to be his roommate. For some reason, he felt at ease with her. It was almost as if he knew he would get along with her the second she walked through the door. As bad as everything had been, Spike was starting to believe that things were going to change. Maybe his life wasn't as bad as it seemed after all....

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" How soon can you move in?" Spike tried not to seem too eager but failed. He was walking her to the front door. Xander still watched from the sidelines with a knowing smile.
" Whenever you're ready for me." Buffy answered with a smile. She liked Spike or Will as she called him. He was sweet, funny and not to mention sexy as hell. Most of all, he made her feel comfortable in her skin. *You just me the guy, Buff. Get a grip and besides that, he's your new roommate. Hands. Off.*
"As soon as possible would be great." Spike blurted and then quickly amended his words. " That way you would be settled by the end of the week."
" Okay. How 'bout I start moving in tomorrow? Is that okay?" Buffy questioned, hoping that it was okay. She wanted to move in as soon as possible as well. *But only because I promised Willow I'd be out by the end of the week. it's not cause of him. Is it?* she thought.
" That's perfect, sweets." Spike answered with a smile, relieved that she was moving is so soon.
" Great. Well, I better go pick up my stuff from storage. . I'll see you tomorrow morning, say 10:00?"
" That's fine, luv."
" So I guess we're roomies then?" Buffy replied with a goofy looking grin.
" Guess so." Spike chuckled. *Wow, she adorable.*
" Well, I'll see you tomorrow then....roomie." she turned to Xander. " It was nice meeting you Xander. I hope to see you soon."
" Nice meeting you too, Buff." Xander waved with a small smile.
" Bye Will." Buffy met his eyes once more, held his soft gaze for a moment and left.

Nope. Life wasn't bad at all....

***************************************************************************

" So....she seems nice." Xander responded after a few minutes.
" Yeah she does. I like her." Spike was still looking at the spot where she was just standing.
Xander started to say "I'm sure you do" but stuck with, " I like her too."
" Good cause I have a feeling that she's gonna be here for a while." Spike said finally facing his friend. He soon realized what he said and sputtered out what he 'meant' to say. " As-as a friend. I meant she's gonna be here for a while as a friend."
" Of course. Whatever you say." Xander shook his head at the blushing blonde but said nothing more.

This was going to be VERY interesting.

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Chapter 5:

Buffy practically ran back to Willow's after her meeting with Spike. Everything was turning out to be okay.

" Will, you'll never believe wha-" Buffy was abruptly cut off when she realized what she had walked in on.
" Hey, Buffy. I didn't know you were gonna be back so soon." Willow replied nervously, while the woman next to her just blushed heavily.
" No, it's my fault. I didn't know you were on a date." Buffy answered.
" No, it's okay. We were just finishing up here...Umm....I guess I should probably introduce the two of you. Buffy this is Tara. Tara this is my best friend Buffy." Willow introduced.
" Wait. Is this THE Tara." Buffy questioned with a big emphasis on the word the.
" I'm assuming Willow's talked about me." Tara finally spoke up with a soft voice.
" Only good things of course. It's a pleasure to meet you." Buffy replied with a bright smile.
" Nice to meet you as well."
" Well, don't let me interrupt . I'll just go start packing." Buffy moved around the two females to get to her 'room'.
" Packing? Wait a minute. You got the apartment?" Willow questioned with excitement and surprised. She didn't expect Buffy to find anything so quick.
" Yep." was all Buffy said.
" Well, what's the apartment like? What's your roommate like? When do you move in?" Willow came from all angles with questions. Tara just smiled adoringly at her while Buffy was still trying to process what she had asked.
" Whoa! Let me see if still do this: The apartment is great, my roommate is even better and I'm moving in tomorrow."
" That's really great, Buffy." replied Tara.
" Thanks." she answered.
" Do you want us to help you with your stuff?" Willow offered.
" Don't worry about that. I put most of my stuff in storage before I went to LA. Do you mind if I use you car to go pick it up?" Buffy asked as she picked up the keys from the coffee table. Willow was in front of her in flash.
" No!" at Buffy startled expression, she amended her tone. " I mean, I can drive you there. I don't mind at all. Why don't you go and wait for me in the car while a say goodnight to Tara."
" Okay. I'll be in the car." she made her way over to the door but didn't make an exit before saying, " It was nice to meet you Tara."
" You too." she answered. When Buffy was finally out of the house, Willow let out a breath of relief.
" I'm sorry our date had to be cut short."
" It's okay but why didn't you just let Buffy barrow your car?” Tara asked.
" Buffy and cars are very unmixy things." Willow explained.
" Don't you have insurance?
" Yeah but I don't think it'll cover what she'd do it if I let her drive it." Willow answered with a shudder. Tara laughed in response.

***************************************************************************

The next day, Buffy and Willow were up bright and early. They began putting all of Buffy's things in the car.

" So...tell me more about your roommate." Willow just had to know about this guy. She still wasn't sure about Buffy moving in with a man.
" He's really great." that was all that Willow got for an answered.
" Yeah . I kinda got a hold of that the last ten times you said it." she joked. Willow suddenly turned serious. " He's not of the creepy variety, is he?"
" Of course not! I wouldn't be moving in with him if he was. He's really great. I think I'm gonna get along great with him." Buffy assured.

Willow still wasn't sure. * I'll just have to see for myself then.*

***************************************************************************

It was almost ten o'clock and Spike couldn't have been more nervous. Xander and his wife Anya had agreed to help out with the moving of Buffy's things and Spike was very grateful. He didn't know if he would be able to control himself around Buffy. Not that he'd do something bad, he just didn't want to embarrass himself. He heard a car pulling up into the parking lot outside and instantly got butterflies.

" She's here! She's here!" Spike exclaimed. he looked and sounded like a little boy at Christmas time.
" Calm down, Spike. She's not a hooker. She's your roommate." Anya chided. She was always so blunt. Spike just ignored her.
" Why don't you two make sure everything is in order up here while I go down and see if Buffy needs any help with anything." Spike suggested.
" She's just moving in, Spike. It's not like we're helping you set the scene for an afternoon of orgasms for the two of you." Anya was on a roll.
" Just humor him, honey." Xander broke in before Spike could reply. Xander could tell that he was slowly losing his patience with the woman.
" Fine fine." Anya muttered.

Spike went down to greet Buffy at the front entrance. Just as he was coming out, she was exiting the car. As soon as Buffy saw him, she gave him a bright, dazzling smile. Spike was immediately breathless but covered it up with a small smile of his own.

" You made it." Spike greeted as he walked toward her.
" And I'm on time too." she joked lightly. Willow was soon out of the car and walked to stand beside Buffy.
" Hey there." Spike acknowledged Willow.
" Oh! You two need to be introduced. Will, this is my best friend Willow. Willow this is my new roommate William, a.k.a, Spike."
" Nice to meet you , Red." Spike shook her hand but Willow just remained quiet. She was really taken by the man standing in front of her. He not only was sweet but damn was he hot! *I know I'm gay but that doesn't mean I'm blind. Before she could snap out of her trance, Buffy broke into her thoughts.
" There are some boxes in the car. Would you mind grabbing them for me?" Buffy asked.
" Sure thing, pet." answered Spike before he moved to the car to do just that. Buffy and Willow grabbed some things out of the car as well. When Spike was out of earshot, Willow grabbed Buffy's arm.
" He's...he's....wow!" she was at a loss for words.
" I told ya!" Buffy responded with a smirk.

The next four hours included unloading Buffy's things from the car and moving them into the apartment, making trips back to Willow's for forgotten belongings and visits to the storage place for more of Buffy's stuff.

Spike tried his hardest to be around Buffy without seeming to obvious. She didn't seem to notice. In fact. Buffy enjoyed his nearness to her and was just as eager to be close to him. Whenever she'd smile or laugh at something that Spike said or did, it made his heart flutter. She was really getting to him.

Buffy wasn't faring too well either. Spike's handsome looks and gentlemen like ways made it hard for her to focus. He was constantly telling jokes or doing things to make her smile. That's what she had begun to like most about him. He made always made her smile. None of the interaction between the two blondes went unnoticed by Willow, Anya and Xander. The three of them all thought the same thing.

* Here we go again.*

***************************************************************************

Around 2:00 o'clock, everyone but Buffy and Spike were wiped out. Everything of Buffy's had been moved in.

" I think that's the last of it, guys." Buffy announced as she came in with the last batch of boxes. Sighs of relieve could be heard from Xander, Willow and Anya from their seats on the couch. " Oh come on! It wasn't that bad."
" Speak for yourself." Xander groaned.
" Next time you decide to move, don't call me." Willow joked but her feet were really sore.
" Ha ha ha." Buffy replied dryly. " You don't have to worry about that. I don't plan on going anywhere any time soon." that last part was directed at Spike. " Now, who wants to help me unpack?" she asked.

All of them were off the couch in a split second.

" Look at the time. Gotta go. Nice meeting you Spike. Call ya later Buffy." said Willow before she made a quick get away for the door.
" Yeah. We should probably get going too. Xander promised me lots of orgasms and I don't see me getting them if we stay here with the two of you." said Anya. Buffy really didn't know how to respond to that. Xander and Spike just shook their heads.
" Ummm....I guess you can go then."
" Come on Xander. Let's go before she changes her mind." Anya grabbed a helpless Xander and dragged him out of the apartment.

That left Buffy and Spike alone.

" Is she always like that." Buffy questioned fearfully.
" No. She's way worse." Spike answered with a chuckle.
" So are you gonna help me or are you gonna run out on me too?" she questioned with a small pout that Spike just found irresistibly cute.
" I've got no where else to be. I don't mind helping you." he answered.
" You really don't have to waste your time helping me. I can manage." Buffy protested. She didn't want to keep him from more important affairs.
" It's not a waste of my time, pet. I really don't mind." Spike assured her.
" Okay...umm..there's a box of clothes over there by the door. Would you mind putting them in the closet for me? They should already be on hangers."
" You got it." he opened up the box and did exactly what she asked.

Comfortable silence passed between he two of them until Spike just had to hear her voice. She must have read his mind because she finally spoke.

" So...where are you from. I mean, I know your British but-" she trailed off.
" I'm from London, specifically. I moved here about three years ago to be a writer." he answered.
" Wow. What kind of writer?" she asked.
" Poet. I write poetry." Spike avoided her eyes. He didn't want to tell her about him getting fired. Expecting her to laugh at his choice of a profession, Spike still continued to not look her in the face.
" Really? I love poetry." Buffy exclaimed. Spike's gaze snapped back to hers in surprise.
"You do?"
" Yeah. I love to read some of your work sometime." Buffy returned in a hopeful tone.
" You just might." pause " What about you? Where are you from?"
" Well, I grew up here in SunnyD but...after my mom died four years ago, I decided to move to LA for college." she answered softly. Even though she knew her mother was in a better place, it still hurt to think about her death. Spike completely understood.
" How'd you lose 'er?" he asked gently.
" Cancer."
" I'm sorry."
" Thanks." Buffy was battling her tears. She didn't want to cry in front of him. He wouldn't understand.
" I lost my mom too." Spike said softly. Buffy's head snapped back to his. She wasn't expecting that. Spike didn't know why he had shared that with her but he felt that he had to let her know that he knew what loss felt like.
" How?"
" She was killed in a car crash when I was four."
" I'm sorry. I guess you do understand what it's like then." she replied.
" Yeah. I do." The two of them held one another's gazes before Buffy finally looked away.
" Anyway, after a while I started getting sick of the whole LA scene and decided to move back here to start over."
" To do what exactly?" he questioned intriguingly.
" I'm not sure yet. I'll let you know when I figure it out. Don't worry though." she quickly secured. " I’m not one of those roommates who pays the rent late because I don't have a steady paycheck. I do have a job."
" I don't doubt it." he responded with a small smile.
" Speaking of the rent, would you like me to give it to you now or at the end of the month?"
" Oh don't you worry your beautiful little head about the rent. It's paid up for the next two months." Spike told her.
" What? Are you serious?" Buffy was shocked.
" Yep."
" I can't just live here 'rent free' for the next two months. That wouldn't be fair to you." she protested.
" I don't mind, Buffy, really." he dismissed.
" I take back what I said about you being a great person, Will." pause for effect. " I think amazing is a more appropriate word." Buffy crossed over to him and gave him a light peck on the cheek. She then exited the room to put her toiletries in the bathroom.

Spike stood there, minutes after she had left. It was just a kiss on the cheek but it still made him weak in the knees. For a moment he wondered what it would be like to kiss her on the lips.

*Knock it off, mate. She's your roommate. Besides, you just met her. You'll probably feel absolutely nothing within a few days. She's just like any other woman you've ever dealt with.* he thought.

Boy, was he wrong.....

***************************************************************************
 

Chapter 6:

The next day, Buffy woke to the sound of birds chirping on her windowsill. From her bed, she could see that the morning sun was shining blindingly bright. It was beautiful. She could have stayed in the bed for the rest of the day, just staring at the sun but unfortunately life was calling. Buffy looked over at her clock radio and saw that she had less than a half hour to get ready for work. She had to be there at 10:00 a.m.

" Rise and shine, summers." she groaned and reluctantly got out of bed.

Buffy put on her baby blue robe to hide her barely there pajamas ( a white beater and cut off shorts) and tiredly made her way into the kitchen to make breakfast. She noticed that Spike's bedroom door was closed so she assumed he was still asleep. She tried her best not to make too much noise as she made her coffee but failed miserably. She dropped a few pots and pans as she tried to find the coffee maker.

" Shit!" she hissed and then went to quickly pick up the mess that she made. She didn't noticed that Spike had been standing, watcher her for quite some time.
" Need any help, pet?" Spike teased lightly. Buffy jumped to her feet with a small but audible gasp and placed her hand over her heart.
" Don't do that!! Jeez, you scared me." she exclaimed. Not only did her scare the crap out of her but he was also making her very.....very hot all of a sudden. Spike stood before her in nothing but black jeans that had the button undone at the top.
*Yummy.* she thought. Hopefully, he didn't notice her mouth watering at the sight of him.



" Good morning to you too, pet." he grinned. " I didn't mean to scare you, luv. 'm sorry."
" It's okay. It was more of a surprise than a scare. I thought you were still asleep." she replied seemingly calm but her heart was racing a mile a minute. He looked REALLY good. His hair was a mess of unruly curls but that wasn't the best part. His body was AMAZING! His upper body set her entire body on fire. Spike was well toned and sculpted. He was a work of art.
" I was but all the racket that you were making in the kitchen woke me up." he joked.
" Sorry. I was trying to find the coffee maker and ending up causing a ruckus." said Buffy with a blush.
" It's okay, pet. What are you doing up so early anyway?" he asked as he located the coffee pot in a cupboard above her head.
" I have to be at work soon. I thought I'd make a light breakfast before I started my day." she answered, while taking the pot away from him and turning away to fill it up with water
" I'll tell you what: Why don't you go ahead and get ready and I'll make us some breakfast?" Spike offered.
" I couldn't ask you to do-" she tried to protest. Her back was still facing him.
" You didn’t ask. I offered. Now go. Leave everything to me." he moved to grab the coffee pot away from her but ending up bumping into her as she turned around. Water spilled onto his chest and dripped down his abdomen. Buffy's eyes glued themselves to that very spot.
" Oops." she managed to say after a few seconds of ogling. She grabbed a nearby towel and started to lightly dab in the said area. She tried to ignore his short intake of breath. Before she could reach his bellybutton, he took her wrist in hand and stopped her.
" Don't worry about it, luv. I can get it. You go and get ready." Spike suggested shakingly, praying that she didn't notice.
" Ok." short pause as she handed him the towel. " I’m gonna go take a shower. You sure you don't need any help?"
" Go." was all he said with a light push.
" I'm going , I'm going." she mumbled.

After Buffy was out of sight, Spike let out a breath he had been holding since her hand had made contact with his skin. It was like she burned every place she touched (in a good way, of course.) Spike couldn't let her see the 'effect' she had on him. If he did, she'd freak out and think him a pervert. He never could control that part of his anatomy. It had a mind of it's own.

Just when Spike thought that he couldn't get any hornier, he heard the shower being turned on. Suddenly, thoughts of Buffy covered in hot, steamy water and soapy suds filled his mind. He knew that he shouldn't be thinking of stuff like that. Not only did it make staying in his pants painfully uncomfortable but it was also wrong. Buffy was his roommate. He couldn't think of her like that. It was WRONG. When he thought he couldn't take anymore, The water stopped.

* She must be finished. Thank God! I don't think I could've taken much more of that.* he thought. He quickly got started on breakfast.

Spike really had it bad. No woman had ever had this big of an effect on him. What he didn't know was that he was having the same effect on Buffy.

***************************************************************************

Buffy stood under the water and let it wash away the embarrassment of what she had just did.

* First you stare at him like some love-struck teenager. Then, you spill water all over him. How much of an ass could you possibly be, Buffy?* she thought as she cleaned herself thoroughly.

Even though she knew it was wrong, Buffy began thinking about Spike as the warm water poured over her body. Seeing him half naked was more than she had hoped for. His body was....absolutely perfect. Buffy hadn't even seen all of him but she would bet her life that the rest of him looked perfect too. She could almost imagine what he looked like without any clothes on. His pale but smooth skin, strong muscles and tight ..round….

*STOP BUFFY!!!* her mind screamed.

Before her thoughts got too out of control, Buffy turned off the shower and wrapped herself in a big, white, fluffy towel. Once she was dry, she applied vanilla scented lotion all over her body. She then sprayed her vanilla scented body spray on various areas of her skin. After that was done, Buffy covered herself with her robe and went to the closet to pick out he cloths for the day. Buffy decided to wear a knee length skirt , with a dark red buttoned down shirt and black jacket to cover it. To top it off, she chose knee high, four inch , black boots. Noticing the time on the clock, Buffy quickly got dressed.

***************************************************************************

Spike had just finished making the two of them breakfast when Buffy came out of her bedroom. There was only one word to describe the way she looked.

*Effulgent.*

Her hair was put into a tight bun and stray strands of her hair framed her face. Her make-up was light but noticeable. She was also wearing his favorite colors: red and black. He knew that he was probably overreaction but he was truly a beauty. She was absolutely….

" Perfect." he said softly.
" What was that?" Buffy looked his way when she heard his vice.
"Ummmm.....breakfast.....is served." Spike stammered out.
" What'd ya make?" she asked curiously. She put down her black shoulder bag and walked towards him in the kitchen.
" Just some eggs, bacon and toast with grape jelly. There's also some orange juice if you want. I'm sorry it's not anything fancy." he replied shyly.
" Don't be silly. It's perfect. Thank you." she answered with a bright, grateful smile as she sat down at the dining table. He brought over a plate and Buffy immediately dug in. At first taste, she moaned. " Oh my God! I don't think I've ever had something this good in my mouth and it's so simple."
" You like it?" he asked timidly.
" I love it. Didn't the blissful moans tip you off?" she questioned with a mouth full of eggs.
" Thanks, ducks."
" You’re are very welcome.” notices that he’s not dressed for work as well. Shouldn't you be getting ready for work too?" she asked motioning to his attire.
" Umm..about that. I think I should tell you-" Spike began to confess about his recent unemployment.
" Don't tell me that you got the day off." she injected.
" Something like that." * You chicken shit. Why didn’t you just tell her the truth.*
" You luck dog." Buffy pouted. Spike chuckled in response.
" What do you do exactly? You never said." he decided to sway the subject away from him.
" I work at my mom's art gallery." she answered before taking a sip of her juice.
" Your mum owned a art gallery?! Blood hell!" Spike exclaimed surprised.
" You impressed?"
" Very. So...did she leave it to you when she passed?" Spike questioned carefully. He didn't want to upset her with questions of her deceased mother.
" Not entirely. She didn't want me to take on the responsibility alone, especially with me moving to LA so she gave me half of the place to me and the other half to her best friend Jenny." Buffy explained.
" Do you ever think about buying out her half and owning it by yourself?" he inquired before he took a bite of his toast.
" I thought about it once but I don't think I'll go through with it. I'll always own half of it but art was my mom's thing."
" And what's your thing, luv."
" I don't know yet. Until I find out, the gallery is my place of employment." pause. " It’s not so bad really though. I like the people and the art is great. It's just not something that I want to devote my life to."
" Understandable." he replied. "What do you think your mom with think though?"
" I think she'd be happy that I making a life for myself and that I'm happy. That's all she ever wanted." Buffy answered without hesitation.
" I think she'd be proud of you too." Spike agreed softly.
" Thanks." smiles then gasps. " I gotta get going. I'm gonna be late." Buffy made a move to pick up her plate but Spike stopped her.
" I'll get it, pet. I wouldn't want you to be late on your first day back."
" Are you sure. I mean, you made breakfast. The least I could do is help you clean up before I take off.
" I don't mind, Buffy. Go." Spike assured.
" Okay but you gotta let me make this up to you. You've done so much for me in the last twenty-four hours. I want to return the favor." she offered.
" You don't have to do-" he tried to deny.
" I know I don't HAVE to but I WANT to. Please let me." Buffy pleaded with a playful pout. " Please please, Will. Pretty please."
" Okay okay." he chuckled. " What did you have in mind?"
" How 'bout I bring home dinner and a movie on my way from work. I know it’s not much but it's a start. What do you say?"
" Okay."
" Really?"
" Of course. We can talk some more too. There's still a lot about you that I don't know."
" I come with a lot of baggage. You think you’ve got the time?”
" I've got forever." he answered. * Did you really just say that?*
* Did he really just say that?* Buffy thought as well.

Spike held her gaze silently and saw her blush at his reply. * She looks so adorable when she blushes.

" I'm gonna hold you to that." giggles nervously. " Okay . I really better go."
" Alright. Have a nice day."
" You too. Don't have to much fun." she warned.
" Huh." he looked dumbfounded.
" You know, your day off. Behave yourself." she said mocking sternness.
" I can't promise anything but for you, I'll try." he replied. He hated lying to her but he couldn't just tell her everything that had happened. She'd probably rethink being his roommate and he was already starting to get use to having her around.
" Right. I'll see you later."

And then she was gone......

* This is gonna be one bloody long day.*

***************************************************************************
 

Chapter 7:

The gallery was in walking distance so it only took Buffy ten minutes to get there. As she walked up to the front entrance, she took how much the place had changed. Sure the name of the gallery, 'Summers Arts', still remained but Buffy could tell that Jenny had been doing a lot of remodeling over the last couple of years. Were there was once bare ground, now laid dozens of flowers and beautiful plants. The place looked bigger than she last remembered. There had obviously been a paint job and various art statues were placed around the building.

Even though Jenny was expecting her, Buffy was more than a little nervous. The last time she had seen Jenny was a year ago in LA at Christmas and even then it was a short visit. Jenny was like a second mom to Buffy but it would still be a little strange seeing her after all this time. Before walking into the gallery, Buffy took a deep breath.

" Here we go." she said to herself and walked inside.

Although the outside of the gallery looked different, the inside looked exactly the same. Various paintings, drawings and pottery were to the right. Historical artifacts from all over the world were placed on the left. In the center, a long receptionist desk stood.

You wouldn't believe who was the receptionist.....Harmony.

" This is gonna be a very long day." Buffy muttered as she got a good look at the blonde sitting behind the desk. " Why me?!" she replied before plastering on a fake smile.

" Hello, Harmony." she greeted. Harmony looked up. Her expression changed from annoyed to surprised and right back to annoyed.
" Buffy. What a surprise."
" I spoke to you two days ago, Harmony. You knew that I was coming in." Buffy retorted calmly. * Was she born this dumb?*
" Oh....right." realized Harmony, yet she still looked a little lost.
* I so don't have time for this.* " Is Jenny around?" Buffy questioned more than a little annoyed.
" How am I supposed to know? I'm not her keeper." she answered.
" but you are the receptionist. It's your job to- never mind. I'll go find her myself." Buffy walked off before anything else could be said.

Buffy walked around a little and took in the different art that occupied the gallery. She recognized a few items from a few years ago but a lot of the art was new, to her anyway. The place looked like it was doing really well.

*Maybe this would be so hard after all.* she thought.

" Can I help you with some- Buffy!" Jenny's voice rang from behind. Buffy turned towards her with a smile.
" Jenny! " she greeted happily. The both of them looked uncomfortable for a moment but recovered and participated in a hug.
" It's really good to see you." Jenny replied once they broke apart.
" It's good to see you too. It's been so long." Buffy returned.
" Well, let me get a good look at you." Jenny ordered and then proceeded to walk around Buffy in a complete circle. "Wow. You look the same but in a different way. It's like you've grown but I can see that you're still the same sweet, loving Buffy. You look great."
" Thanks. You look amazing. Are you sure you're only 40 cuz you don't look a day over 35." Buffy complimented.
" Oh stop it. Come on. Why don't we go to my office and catch up a little bit before the place opens." Jenny suggested.
" Sounds great." she agreed.

***************************************************************************

Spike had just finished getting dressed in a black t-shirt and some blue jeans when he heard a knock at the door.

" I'm coming. Hold your bloody horses." he grumbled. His was surprised at all when it was Xander who was doing the knocking. " What are you doing here?"
" Good morning to you to, William." Xander greeted teasingly.
" Sorry. I just wasn't expecting you to come by today. I thought you'd be at work." Spike amended.
" Got in the office around seven this morning. Decided to take an early lunch break. More importantly, I had some news for you that just couldn't wait until later."
" What news?" Spike asked with much interest.
" Do you remember that guy who I introduced you to at the office Christmas part last year?" Xander asked.
" Ummm..." Spike tried hard to remember what he was talking about.
" Angel Liam?"
" Oh yeah! He's the one with the stupid hair, isn't he?"
" Yes but he's also the one with his own newspaper." Xander retorted.
" Go on." Spike was now very interested.
" I ran into him this morning at Starbuck's and we go the talking. He told me about this opening position at his magazine. When I told him about you situation, he thought you'd be perfect for the job." Xander replied.
" What kind of position is it?" asked Spike.
" He really didn't say too much. Only that you'd get you're own article to make of as you please." short pause. " So...what do you think? Did your buddy come through or what?"
" This Angel bloke is really gonna give me a job?" Spike inquired with uncertainty.
" Yep. All you have to do is call him and set up and interview. He said that you already had the job. He's read some of your work. The interview is just procedure. Just give him a call." Xander took out a small white card and handed it to Spike. Spike took it with an eagerness and rewarded Xander with a bright and grateful smile.
" Thanks, Whelp. You really came through.'
" Don't I always?" Xander teased.
" You know, this week started off pretty shitty but I think it's gonna end off on a good note. I mean, I got a great roommate and now I'm about to get another job. Life is good."
" Told you things would look up. Even if I never ran into Angel, you'd still be okay. I bet Buffy could have helped you out."
" Yeah. Maybe." Spike turned away and occupied himself with straitening up the living area. Xander wasn't letting the matter go, however.
" You did tell her, right?"
" Not....exactly."
" Do you mean ' not exactly' as in ' I didn't give her all the details or ' not exactly' as in ' She doesn't know a bloody thing'." Xander questioned. At Spike's shameful look, Xander's question was answered. " You didn't tell her!!"
" I just didn't think it was important."
" You should have told her, Spike. I mean she's your roommate. You can't keep things like that from her." Xander scowled.
" Why not? I just met 'er. I don't have to tell her everything."
" I didn't say that you had to tell her everything, Spike but do yourself a favor and don't lie to her." Xander warned before walking towards the door. " I gotta get back to work. I'll see you later." he said before exiting the apartment.

* I hate it when he's right.*

***************************************************************************

" How's your new place?" Jenny questioned. The two of them were now sitting in Jenny's office. They had just brushed up on the past. Buffy had told her about her breakup with Riley while Jenny told Buffy about her not too clean divorce.
" It's great but my roommate is even better." Buffy answered with a big smile.
" That's right. Willow told me about your roomie. She said that he's quite the hottie."
" Jenny, I love you dearly but please don't ever use the word 'hottie' in a sentence ever again." Buffy joked halfheartedly.
" Ha ha ha."
" Seriously, he really is a great guy." Buffy replied with a dreamy look in her eyes.
" I'd like to meet him sometime. Is that okay?" Jenny was more than curious about this 'William' character, especially if he managed to put that big of a smile on Buffy's face.
" Sure. I'll set something up." Buffy got out of her seat. " I better get to work. That art isn't gonna sell itself."
" Buffy?" Jenny called before she could get out of the office.
" Yeah?"
" Welcome back."

***************************************************************************

It was nearly six o'clock when Buffy got home from work. She picked up the movie and dinner just like she promised. She wasn't sure what type of movie Spike like so she just pick one that had multiple themes. Romance, action and comedy were all rolled into one in 'Romeo and Juliet'.

" Hey you." Buffy greeted as she entered the apartment. Spike was sitting on the couch with a book. Buffy noticed that his face brighten up as soon as she walked in the door.
" Hey, pet. How was your day?" he questioned with a smile. He was so glad that she was home.
" Tiring." sighs as she practically falls on the couch. " I didn't think the first day back would be so hard. Boy, was I wrong." she groaned as she kicked off her boots.
" Poor baby." he soothed. " Was it really that bad?"
" It wasn't all bad. I got to catch up with Jenny. That was nice. I really missed her and I got to sell some art. I guess I just have a lot of adjusting to do."
" I'm sure it'll get better as time passes." Spike assured.
" I hope so cause I don't think my feet can take too much more of this." she complained. Spike was kneeling before her in less than two seconds.
" I'm really great with foot massages, luv."
" Are you now?" she asked with a smirk.
" Oh yeah. I've even had people tell me that my foot massages are better than sex." he blurted without thinking it through. Buffy just stared at him.

* Is he flirting with me? No, he couldn't be.....could he?*

" Maybe I'll take you up on that offer one day." at Spike's raised brow she quickly amended. " The foot massage, I mean. "
" Right. Okay. Can I get you anything? " he offered trying desperately to calm his nerves. He was still kneeling before her. Buffy's skirt was raised up to a point where it revealed a small portion of her tanned thighs. Suddenly, breathing became a bit of an issue.
" No thanks. I'll be okay. I'm sure a bath later on tonight will do me good. For now, I'll just go with some dinner and a movie." she answered with a gesture to the bags sitting beside her on the couch.
" Why don't you go change into something more comfortable and I'll get everything ready." he took her hand in his and lifted her up off of the couch.
" You are an absolute Godsend." she praised as she made her way back to her room.

Spike picked up the food bags and brought them to the kitchen. He was just about to warm the food up when he heard a knock on the door.

*Who is it now?* he thought annoyed.

When he opened the door, he was face to face with the last person that he wanted to see.

Snyder....

***************************************************************************

" Hello, William." Snyder didn't wait for an invite. He just breezed passed Spike.
" Snyder. To what do I owe this displeasure?" Spike inquired heatedly. Snyder, however, did not seemed phased at his attitude.
" I just thought I'd bring you your last pay check. You rushed out of the office so quickly after I fired you the other day that I wasn't able to give it to you." Snyder answered with a smirk.
" You could have mailed it to me, you prick! You're not welcome in my home."
" I don't want to be here any more than you want me to be." Snyder sneered looking around the apartment as if it were a hellhole.
" Then get the fuck out!" Spike commanded.
" Gladly. Nice knowing you, William." Snyder replied as he walked back out of the apartment. He turned and to look at Spike once more.
" Wish I could say the same. Actually....I don't." Spike retorted before slamming the door in the little trolls face. When turned around, he realized that he wasn't alone.

Buffy had heard the whole thing...

***************************************************************************

" How long have you been standing there/" he asked quietly.
" Long enough." she answered.
" Look, Buffy-" Spike moved towards her while trying to explain but she quickly moved to the table and sat down.
" It's okay, Will. It's none of my business. Let's just eat." she cut in.
" Okay." he agreed reluctantly. Spike went to go get the food

The two of them sat in silence for a long while. Spike had never felt so uncomfortable in his life. Buffy wouldn't even look up from her plate. He knew that he should have told her but he didn't want any pity from her. Her pitying him would have been much better than her not talking to her at all. He had to explain.

" Buffy, I'm sorry."
" Spike, it's-" Buffy tried to dismiss it but he wouldn't let it slide.
" No, it's not okay. I should have told you about me not really having a job. I shouldn't have lied to you."
" Then why did you?" she asked softly slowly meeting his gaze.
" It's a long story." he warned.
" I ain't got no where to be." she assured.

Spike went on to tell her about everything that had happened at the beginning of the week. He told her about the termination from the magazine, Giles departure and his breakup with Dru. He watched for her facial expressions as he revealed his kept secrets but saw that she had none Her face was completely blank. Spike didn't know if that was a good thing or a bad thing.

" Like I said before, I know I should've have told you but I guess I hadn't accepted it myself yet. It was a lot to take in. I'm sorry." he finished with a sigh. Buffy stared at him quietly and then spoke.
" Spike you don't have to be sorry. I understand."
" You do?" he asked nervously.
" Yeah. You had a really rough week. You loose your job, your father figure, your girlfriend and nearly this place in less than three days. That's a lot to deal with, especially in such a short time."
" That still didn't give me a right to lie to you, luv." he retorted.
" True but it's okay." she assured once more hoping that he'd believe her.
" So we're okay then?" he questioned.
" Almost. You have to agree to something first. Can you do that?"
" Of course." Truth be told, Spike would probably do anything for her if he could.
" From now on, be honest with me. No matter how small, big, or hurtful it is, always tell me the truth. Not only are we roommates, Spike, but we're friends. I want you to be able to me tell anything. I want you to know that we can trust each other. I'll always be honest with you. Can you do the same?"
" Yes." he answered with no hesitation.
" Good."

The two of them sat and ate in comfortable silence for the rest of their dinner.

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Chapter 8:

***************************************************************************

Buffy and Spike had planned to watch the movie that she had rented after dinner but it didn't happen. The two blondes were more interested in getting to know one another.

" When did you realize that you wanted to be a writer?" Buffy questioned.
" I don't really think it was something that I decided to do. It just kinda happened." Spike answered.
" How so?"
" After my mum died, I shut off verbally. I wouldn't talk to anyone, not even my grandparents."
" How long did this last?" she asked gently. Buffy knew what it was like to emotionally close herself off. That’s all she did when her mom died.
" About a year." he answered. " No one could get through to me. One day my grandpa, rest his soul, gave me a pen and notebook. I guess he figured that I'd be more open if I'd put all my thoughts and feelings down on paper.'
" You lived with your grandparents? Were was your dad?" she asked.
" I've never met him. He ran out on my mom after he found out that she was pregnant with me." Spike really didn't look upset about it.
" Oh." short pause. " I'm sorry."
" Don't be. I'm better off anyway." Spike assured.
" You're not really missing out on anything great when it comes to having a father. Believe me. I know." Buffy had a hint of bitterness to her tone.
" I'm guessing your dad wasn't too much of a father, huh?" Spike guessed.
" He left my mom and me when I was twelve. It wasn't really much of a surprise though. He was long gone before he ever really left anyway."
" When was the last time you saw him?"
" I haven't seen or heard from him since he ran off with his secretary. He didn't even call when mom died.” Buffy answered quietly not meeting his gaze.

Spike just stared at her for a few moments, just taking in what he heard. He couldn't understand why ANYONE would want to leave the angel sitting beside him. He didn't, however, want to press the issue anymore, so he moved on with the conversation.

" So... what did you want to be when you were little?" he asked. Buffy looked up from her lap and Spike could tell that she was very grateful for the subject change.
" Can I plead the fifth on that question." she dismissed. Buffy may have been happy about changing the subject but the subject itself was a little too embarrassing.
" Oh come on! I'm sure it wasn't that bad." he suggested. " Tell me." he finished in a silky tone that made Buffy's spine tingle. She was sure that she'd do or say anything that he asked if he'd only keep talking like that.
" Okay okay....I wanted to be a figure skater." she relented. "Go ahead and laugh."
" Why would I laugh, pet?" his face showed no signs of amusement but his eyes told otherwise. " I think it's cute."
" I was ten! Of course it was cute then. Now, it's a little embarrassing to reveal." Buffy grumbled as she settled back against the couch.
" Why'd you quit?"
" It was really just something to pass the time. That and an escape from my mom and dad's nightly wars. After dad left, I kinda grew out of it."
" And what did you end up growing in to?" he asked.
" Boys." Buffy joked with a giggle. Spike joined her.

The both of them could tell the conversation was about to take a turn. They knew that the next subject would be about relationships. Would Buffy and Spike be able to share that part of their lives. More importantly, would the both of them be able to accept the answers that they received . They were both under the impression that the other was VERY popular with the opposite sex.

Were they wrong or what?

" Did you date a lot when you were younger?" Spike, questioned, trying hard to be casual about it.
" Actually, no. To be honest, I've only been involved with two guys." Buffy answered a little shyly. It felt a little weird sharing this with him. Buffy was sure that he was just as a babe magnet as he is now.

Spike was beyond surprised with Buffy's answer. He was almost positive that she had guys chasing after her left and right. What was the problem?

"Why?" he blurted without thinking. He face blushed scarlet red when he realized that he may have offended her in some way. " I mean...I meant-" he sputtered.
" It's okay, Will. I know what you meant." she assured then went to explain. " I didn't and still don't get involved with just anyone. I’ve been hurt before so I guess you could say that I’m a little overprotective of my heart. Plus dating seemed kind of pointless. I didn’t like it too much so I never experimented with it.”
" I completely understand." replied Spike
" You do?"
" Oh yeah. I wasn't much of a dater back then either but it wasn't because I chose not to."
" Why was it then?"
" Girls tended to steer clear of me back then.” he returned. Even though those days were over, it still hurt to think about how girls use to treat him.
" Really?!!" then amended. " I mean- It's just that, you don't seem like the type of guy that would have girl trouble." Buffy just couldn't believe what she was hearing. *What woman wouldn't want him. He's perfect.* she thought.
" I wasn't exactly the man that I am now back then." he replied cryptically.
" What do you mean?' she pressed. * Surely he couldn’t mean that he wasn’t as gorgeous back then as he is now. I refuse to believe that .*
" Well, I didn't look like this for one thing. I had big goofy glasses and thick brown hair that was always in my eyes. I was constantly tripping over my feet and making a fool out of myself. It was really quite sad." revealed Spike. * There. The dark secret is out. I wonder what she'll think of me now.*
" I'm sure it wasn't. In fact, the teen you just described sounds...sweet." Buffy replied honestly.
" Sweet? Thanks, luv. That makes me feel much better." he retorted.
" I'm serious" she exclaimed as she scooted closer to him. " I'm sure you were really cute with your bookish looks and if you were as much of a gentleman as you are now, then I'm sorry but I don't understand why any woman wouldn't want to be near you." Buffy expressed softly. Never once, during this, did Buffy take her eyes off of Spike's. She wanted him to know that she meant what she was telling him.

Spike's heart skipped a beat after Buffy finished. No one had ever said anything like that to him before. No one had ever made him feel like he actually mattered.

* Not even Dru.* he thought.

And it felt good......

He felt special......

He felt wanted.......

He felt...

* Not loved. No love. Buffy's just a friend. A really beautiful, intelligent, sexy- Oh Bloody Hell! *

Clearing his throat, Spike decided to share something that not even Dru knew about. " There was one girl who could stand the sight of me. She was the first woman I ever loved."
" Oh. That's good." Buffy tried not to sound too jealous at his admission. * Boy, was she lucky. *
" Yeah it was.....for a while."
" What happened?" she inquired.
" She didn't love me back." he answered softly.
" Why not?" Buffy asked. * What kind of girl was she? * She noticed his sad expression and figured that she was in some deep territory. " You don't have to tell me if you don't want to."
" No, it's okay, ducks." sighs. " Me and her weren't from the same social group to begin with. She was the popular jewel and I was the lonesome twit. You could imagine how her friends reacted when they found out that she decided to associate herself with the likes of me but she said that she didn't care....or so it seemed."
" What went wrong?"
" I started to fall in love with her." Spike returned. Buffy just looked as if that made absolutely no sense.
" Isn't that supposed to be a good thing/'
" For me it was but for her it wasn't. I wish I had known that before I...." Spike trailed off. Buffy reached for his hand and held it gently within her own. It was her way of coaxing him on. " I started writing her poetry. You see, I was never good with expressing myself outside of writing it down. I thought it would be easier and much more romantic if I put in a poem instead." deep sigh. " She had been avoiding me for about two weeks and later I found out that she was just trying to give me the hint that it was over but I didn't realize it until she made a complete fool out of myself in front of everyone." Spike was no longer focusing on Buffy anymore. It was like he was lost in space, remembering what he was sharing with her.

Ten years ago.....


William walked cautiously through the crowd of rowdy teens in search of Cecily. She had been ditching him for the longest and even though it was beginning to anger him, he had to talk to her. He had to tell her how he felt.
The guests at the party were looking at him with seething hatred. William knew that he didn't belong here but he would follow Cecily into the pits of hell if he had to. No one would stop him. As if on cue, two tall jocks began to walk towards him. William had recognized them instantly. Taylor Dickens and Van McBride had made his high school years hell.

" Well well well , it looks as if we have a party crasher in our midst." Taylor observed.
" What are you doing here, Willy. You know you're not welcome." Van spat. His fists were clenched tightly at his sides, ready to be used if needed. That was the difference between Taylor and Van. Taylor fought with his words while Van fought with his fists.
" I- I've come for Cecily." William sputtered at the beginning but finished out confidently. Van and Taylor laughed mercilessly.
" When will you get that she doesn't want you? She never did. How could you possibly think that a beauty like her would want to be hook connected with someone like you?"
" I don't want any trouble. I just wish to see my girlfriend. It's rather important. Now, if you'll excuse me-" William moved around them but was easily stopped. The off white, folded up sheet of paper was also removed from his grasp. " Hey! Give that back!" he exclaimed.
" Look what we've got here, Taylor." teased Van as he held it out of William's reach.
" I wonder what it says." Taylor joined in.
" Why don't we find out." Van began to unfold the sheet of paper. By this time, the other kids had gathered around in a circle. William tried once more to get his property back but failed again when Taylor held him back. Van read the words written for a few minutes before he erupted in fits of childish giggles. William was crushed.
"Hey everyone! You gotta read this." Van started passing it around the room.
" You don't have to do that, Van. I'll just leave and you can give it back." William begged.

Thunderous laughter could be heard throughout the entire room and William was the cause of it. No matter how much he tried to ignore it, the laughter seemed to get louder. William had finally gotten free from Taylor and eagerly ran to another room of the house. Luckily, no one seemed to be occupying it.

William wanted to break down so bad but he wouldn't. He still had Cec and some how she would know how he felt.

* She loves me. I know she does. She loves- * William's thoughts were lost when couple burst into the room. They were all over each other. Kissing and grabbing at one another's body. William's face reddened at what he had no choice but to watch. When the couple broke apart, the guy finally noticed William's presence.

" Bloody hell!! What's he doing here, Cec? I thought you told him to bugger off weeks ago?"

If the night had been horrible at first, just think of what it was when William had noticed who the girl was.

" Cecily?" William croaked out. Surprisingly, it wasn't sadness that fueled him. It was rage.
" William?! What are you doing here?" she shrieked.
" I could ask you the same question, pet but there would really be no use." he retorted. He didn't know where his tone or attitude was coming from but at that point he didn't care.
" William!" Cecily had never heard him use that tone or language with her.
" Would you just get rid of him already? We've got better things to do." the boy complained. William didn’t recognize him, not that he cared who he was.
" Why Cecily?" William questioned. The rage that he was feeling was quickly being replaced with hurt.
" We just don't fit, Will. We're from two different worlds." she answered.
" What do you mean?"
" You're beneath me." she said matter-a-fact.

William's breath hitched in his throat at what she had just said to him. Instead of retaliating or embarrassing himself more, William just nodded, turned and left the party. He left the house and stayed as far away from Cecily and those people.

Present....

" Three weeks later, I graduated and immediately moved to the states. I've haven't seen any of those wankers since that night." Spike finished quietly. He refused to look at Buffy at this point. He was afraid at what he would see in her gaze.

Buffy just sat and listened to his story and couldn't believe that there were people like that who existed in the world. That girl had hurt him so much. * That bitch! Who did she think she was? If anything, Will was and still is above and beyond her. She's not worthy of his love.* she thought.

" I'm sorry, William. You shouldn't have had to experience that." Buffy finally spoke in. She was still holding his hand in her own.
" It's okay." Spike dismissed and tried to remove his hand from her grasp, not wanting her pity but Buffy was too fast for him. She held his hand even firmer.
" No, it's not okay. She had no right to say that to you. Not only was it heartless and cruel but it wasn't true. Any woman would be lucky to have you. I don't think she deserved you. SHE was the one that was beneath you. You were and still are too good for her and I bet one day she'll realize that. When she does, I can bet my life that she feels really stupid for you letting go." Buffy raised her hand and ran it down his cheek before continuing. " I know I would."

Spike leaned into her touch. He felt safe and comforted by it. As much as he wanted to deny it, Spike knew that Buffy was being truthful. She wasn't just trying to make him feel better. It was really the way that she felt. His eyes found hers and held her gaze for longer than they should have. Just before he turned his gaze away.....Buffy kissed him.

The kiss wasn't hard and needy. It was gentle and reassuring. It was so soft that Spike wondered if she was actually doing it. The kiss was also short. When they broke apart, Spike instantly missed the warmth of her lips pressed against his, even if it wasn't the type of kiss that he wanted with her.

Buffy removed her hand from his cheek and scooted towards the opposite end of the couch. She couldn't believe that she had just kissed him

* Are you crazy, Summers?!!! What were you thinking? He's your roommate. Do something quick before you make it worse!" he mind screamed.

" I'm gonna go to bed." Buffy announced a little too eagerly as she got off of the couch.*Great work, Ms. Fixit.* her mind scowled.
" What about the movie?" Spike got up off the couch with her. He was afraid that things were starting to go downhill.
" I have it for the rest of the week. Maybe we can watch it tomorrow? Our little 'get to know you' session really took a lot out of me." she laughed nervously while running her hands through her hair. " You don't mind do you?"
" Not at all, kitten. It is getting kind of late. You go to bed. I'll see you in the morning." Spike answered. * At least she's not showing any signs of wanting to move out. That's gotta be something....right? *
" Okay. Well....good night." Buffy began waling towards her bedroom.
" Sweet dreams, Buffy." Spike said before she walked out of the living room. Buffy turned towards him with a shy but beautiful smile.
" Sweet dreams, Will."

***************************************************************************

Spike lay in his bed an hour after his encounter with Buffy. He didn't want to make a big deal over nothing but he couldn't get the feel of her lips off of his. The briefest touch made his body ache for more.

" She was probably just offering comfort. She was just trying to make ya feel better. Don't make a thing out of it. * his mind ordered him but Spike's heart was already making a big deal out of it. Forget starting to fall in love with her. Spike had already fallen.

“ Bloody hell! I’m in love with her!”



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Buffy did everything but go to bed once she got in her room. It had been nearly two hours since her brief kiss with Spike and she could still feel his lips on hers. She really didn’t mean to do it but some how, it felt right. She tried telling herself that she only kissed him because of what he had shared with her but she didn't hold onto that lie for too long. She had felt something for him since the day she met him.

“ Oh crap!!! I'm falling in love with him.”

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