***Chapter12***Rough Waters***

Buffy walked softly through the graveyard, the silent vampire beside her. The breeze ruffled the loose waves of her hair. She held a stake in her hands, running her fingers over the polished surface absently. Spike held himself tight with tension and barely suppressed desire as he cast sidelong glances at the blonde Slayer and the suggestive way she was caressing the wood in her grasp.

“Bloody hell.” Spike cursed as he nearly ran into yet another low headstone. Buffy looked over at the dark clad figure and couldn’t help but giggle at the silent words he spat out. Buffy’s eyes were drawn to his lips. She could remember the feel of the cool, soft lips against her skin, drawing her life-force from her body.

‘Why can’t I quit thinking about him?’ Buffy asked herself. She was unable to tare her gaze from him, her body growing hot a the memories still fresh in her mind. ‘Ok so he’s not so evil anymore, and mom even like’s him. Sure he is hot, with the bad boy image and the high cheek bones and the way he smiles. . .’ She stood staring after the raging vampire, unable to move as a wave of want moved through her veins.

Spike noticed that Buffy was no longer beside him. He stopped short and looked back at the Slayer, a questioning look in his blue eyes. Spike’s lips curved into a smirk as the soft breeze carried her sent to him. Buffy blushed in horror at having been caught and looked down at her shoes.

“Uh, why don’t you get your stuff, I will give Giles a quick call and meet you back here.” Without waiting for an answer Buffy turned and all but ran in her haste to escape. Spike smirk turned into a genuine smile.

Spike walked the short distance to his crypt and opened the heavy door. He made is way to the lower level and grabbed the leather duffel at the bottom of the stairs. Clothing, cigarettes, and books were unceremoniously stuffed in the bag as Spike made his way systematically through the room. He stopped before a large sheet covering one wall. With a sigh he pulled back the sheet to reveal Buffy. Pictures, clothing, drawings, stakes, even a mannequin sat as a shrine to the Slayer. Nausea welled up inside him as Spike looked at the items he had stolen from the girl.

‘What in the bloody hell was I thinking?’ Spike demanded of himself in disgust. ‘The chit welcomes me into her home, lets me drink her blood, and I stole from her?’ Spike pulled the photographs down first, throwing them into a large metal can and lighting them on fire with his lighter. He turned back to remove the drawings, unable to destroy them, he placed them in a large chest, one by one. He stared for a moment at the drawing of Buffy sleeping, remembering when he had sat out her window watching her in slumber. The air in the room grew thick, pulling Spike from his thoughts. He looked up into the shadows.

‘Who’s there.’ Spike called out, forgetting for a moment that he couldn’t speak.

“A happy memory, pretty Spike,” A voice drifted through the crypt answering his silent question. A woman glided from the shadows, a long black dress draped over her willowy frame. “Look who's come to make everything right again.” Drusilla held the doll in her hands to her ear, listening closely. Spike look on in amazement at his dark princess.

“Miss Edith says my puppy is on a leash. Tin soldiers put funny little knick-knacks in your brain. She set the doll on the table beside Spike, gripping her head in her hands. “Can’t bite, can’t hurt, can’t kill.” She jerked her head with each *can’t*, miming the migraines that hit Spike. “I’m here to make it all better my, William. Make us a family again.”

Spike watched hungrily as the dark vampress slowly swayed towards him..

“What has that naughty lady done to my Spike?” Dru ran a pale hand down his cheek in a soft caress. He leaned into her touch, his eyes partially closing in ecstasy at his sire’s attention.

“No more pretty songs from my black birdie.” Spike instinctively wrapped his arm around her as Dru leaned against him. He took in a hissing breath as she ran a sharp crimson colored finger nail down his cheek, leaving a thin line of blood behind. She ran her cool tongue over the welling blood, her eyes lighting up with pleasure.

“Like sweets my sweet Spike.” Dru cooed in his ear. “It snaps and crackles on my tongue. Let me have her.” Dru’s whispered words pulled him from her thrall. Spike stepped back in shock, his eyes flitting to the partially disassembled shrine. Buffy would be back any moment. Dru’s eyes narrowed in distaste.

“I knew ... before you did. I knew you loved the Slayer. The pixies in my head whispered it to me. She surrounds you, filling your little brain with nasty ideas.” Dru moved towards the shrine, running a hand over the mannequin. “So lost, my Spike. Even I can’t help you now.” Drusilla turned, her face in the vampire mask as she attacked him. Spike stepped to the side, Dru falling past him. He picked up a large candle stick and hit her hard on the back of her head. Spike looked down on his princess with a mix of regret and loathing.

‘What is with these bloody women.’ Spike removed the last of the pictures from the shrine and stripped the mannequin, dashing the offending object into a corner, breaking it into pieces. ‘What am I going to do with her.’ Spike stared at Drusilla for a long moment before moving her into a more comfortable position on her back. Spike grabbed a pen and a crumpled piece of paper.

The words, ‘Leave town, never come back’, were written in dark scrawling print. Spike placed the note in the doll’s arms and put Miss Edith on Dru’s chest.

Spike heard Buffy call out his name. Stuffing the last of her stolen wardrobe into the bottom of his bag, Spike gave the unconscious Dru one last glare before ascending the stairs. Buffy walked towards him, a determined note in her voice.

“Giles said that there was a massacre at the train station. Eight people were killed. He suspects vamps. I’m to head over and check it out. Wanna come.” Buffy’s eyes filled with hope as she waited for Spike to answer. With a quick nod Spike covered the hole to the basement. Buffy looked around the room, an uneasy feeling in her gut. Spike grabbed his bag and ushered the Slayer from the crypt.

“Is something wrong?” Buffy’s arm tingled where Spike’s hand gripped it to propel her through the cemetery. He shock his head in the negative and dropped his hand from her arm. Buffy sighed in disappointment at the loss of touch before leading the way from the cemetery.

***

Buffy and Spike moved slowly down the aisle of the train. Blood was splattered everywhere, the white tape outlines of the bodies a sharp contrast to the deep red of the upholstery. Buffy looked to her right and noticed a smaller outline on one of the seats. She choked in horror as she realized that it was the outline of a baby, probably less than a year old. Tears welled up in her eyes as the horror and regret raised up inside her. She fell to her knees, her unwavering gaze staring at the place the child had taken its last breath, sobs wracking her tiny body.

Spike wrapped his arms around the sobbing Slayer. She clung to him as if her life depended on it, wrapping her arms around his neck tightly. Spike ran soft kisses over her cheeks, tasting the salt from her tears. His lips moved lightly over her face before catching hers in a soft kiss. They both pulled back in shock, Buffy stared at him, her eyes shining with tears. Spike stared back at Buffy, his eyes filled with emotion, before he lowered his head to hers again and capturing her lips in a soft caress.

 ***Chapter 13***Cool Burning***

His lips were cool and firm upon hers, the hands on her back caressing softly. She melted into his embrace, letting his strength surround her, keeping the ugly images of before at bay. She ran her fingers through his hair, marveling at the softness of the bleached locks. She felt his tongue against her lips, begging for entry into her warm mouth. Hesitantly, she opened her mouth and met his tongue with hers. A rumbling growl came from deep in his chest as he griped her hips, placing her astride him. She moaned softly as her body came into full contact with his.

AS tongues dueled for dominance, Spike ran his hands under the back of Buffy’s shirt, cooling her heated flesh as he enflamed it more. Buffy pressed herself closer, tangling her fingers in his hair, refusing to let him go. Spike’s lips moved from hers to make a searing path down the curve of her neck. He ran his cool tongue over her jugular causing Buffy to moan low in her throat. Buffy didn’t flinch as the vampire nipped lightly on her skin. Spike sucked lightly on her neck mimicking the action he craved, the strong Slayer’s blood just under the thin barrier calling to him

Spike’s lips moved down her neck until the buttons of her shirt stopped him. Without removing his lips from her skin, Spike slipped the buttons from their holes, following the path he opened. Buffy arched against him, her body singing as the heat flowed through her veins.

The sharp piercing whistle of a train broke the silence of the night air. Buffy jumped in shock. Spike looked at the Slayer with a mixture of need and questioning, his hands stilling their movements on her buttons. Buffy looked into his eyes, almost black in arousal. Her eyes widened in shock. She pulled herself from his grip in a burst of Slayer speed and moved away from him. Spike groaned silently at the loss of her heat, staring intently at her.

“We need to get home, it’s late.” Buffy said as she backed away from the vampire still sitting in shock in the aisle ahead of her. Buffy pulled her gaze from his and fled the train. Spike sighed and pulled himself to his feet. He looked up in pain as the movement caused his pains to tighten painfully. It was then Spike noticed a doll laying in the overhead. It was an old fashioned doll, similar to Miss Edith, her eyes covered by a thin red ribbon. Reluctantly Spike picked up the doll and walked towards the exit. He stared at the doll for a long moment before removing the ribbon and placing both objects in the garbage by the door.

‘No use telling the Slayer Dru’s in town.’ Spike sighed to himself, running his hands through his hair.

Spike walked down the stairs of the train and made his way to the front of the station where he left his bag. He was shocked to see Buffy standing beside it, waiting for him. She refused to meet his gaze as Spike came to stand in front of her.

“Let’s go.” Buffy mumbled as she turned her back on him. Spike picked up his bag and followed in silence.

Buffy was never more relieved at Spike’s inability to speak then now. She could feel Spike glance at her as they made their way down the darkened streets towards her home. The walk was long, the thin breeze from the cemetery had escalated into a full blow, the air hinting at rain. Buffy wrapped her arms around her shaking body, cursing the fact that she did not grab a jacket before leaving the house.

So lost in thought, Buffy didn’t even notice until the firm weight of Spike’s duster fell over her shoulders, blocking her thin body from the chilling wind. She looked up in surprise at the vampire beside her. Spike had a small smile on his face, he mouthed the word ‘better?’.

Buffy pushed her hands through the arms and sniggled the jacket closer to her body. She sent a small smile Spike’s way before continuing down the deserted street. The cool leather smelt like him. The thick sent of cigarettes, alcohol and him. Normally the smell would send her gagging but some how the combination only sent her heart rate racing and her breathing to become faster.

Spike watched in silence as Buffy burrowed her way deeper into his jacket, the cold wind doing nothing to cool him. She looked so small, belying the strength hidden beneath her thin exterior. The pale moon glinted off her hair, causing it to glow.

She glanced at her companion, the lack of duster doing nothing to diminish him. The black T-shirt he wore was molded to the hard lines of his muscles. The skin tight material of his black jeans left nothing to the imagination. Buffy’s eyes widened at the implications of the strained fabric. She let out a small eep, her eyes darting to the path in front of her.

Spike looked at her, concerned words stuck on his tongue. HE cursed his inability to speak and settled for reaching out a hand to touch her shoulder. Buffy jumped in surprise at his touch, stopping in her tracks to stare at him. She felt a flush move up her cheeks as she looked in his eyes. Spike felt her heartbeat quicken, his eyes transfixed by her tongue moving out to lick her lips. His hand cupped her cheek, his thumb caressing her lips, as he stared intently into her eyes. Buffy took in a ragged breath as he moved closer to her, wrapping his other arm around her waist to pull her to him. She couldn’t resist, unable to pull her gaze from his.

Spike stared at her for a moment more before lowering his lips to hers. He kissed her softly, lips barely brushing hers. Buffy moved closer, resting her slight weight against him, seeking more contact. Spike increased the pressure of his lips, sliding his hand on her cheek into her flowing tresses. His other hand dropped the bag to the ground before sliding into the duster and under her shirt, caressing the soft skin of her back. Buffy moaned as the movement pulled her closer to him, the cool of his body penetrating the thin material of her shirt. It was her tongue that sought entrance into his mouth, begging Spike to deepen the kiss. With a silent chuckle, Spike’s tongue touched hers before delving into the soft cavern of her mouth, rubbing against hers sensuously.

Buffy sagged against him completely, letting Spike keep her from falling to the ground. He kept the movements of his mouth slow, much to her frustration. She slid her hands up his arms to tangle themselves in his hair, tugging him impossibly closer.

The outside world ceased to exist to them, nothing existing beyond the others touch and taste. Thoughts of right and wrong flew out of her mind under his expert kisses. A deep rumbling purr came from deep in Spike’s chest as Buffy’s hands moved from his hair to bury themselves under the back of his shirt, sharp nails scratching lightly over the hard muscles. Spike trailed his lips from hers down the column of her neck, sucking lightly at the salty skin. Buffy gasped for much needed air as he took her earlobe between his teeth, nipping lightly. His hands moved down over her body, pulling her hips hard against him. Their lips met again hungrily, trying to devour the other.

The crash of thunder pulled them from their embrace just as the heaven opened up, pouring freezing rain on the pair. Buffy squealed in shock as the cold water ran down her back. Spike’s lips curved into a smile as he watched Buffy pull the duster’s collar tighter around her neck. He picked up the bag before grabbing her hand and dashing down the street, trying in vain to outrun the raindrops. Buffy laughed in delight as they splashed through the puddles, her Slayer speed a full match for his fast pace.

They reached the house in no time, stopping on the covered porch to shake themselves dry. Buffy’s laughter died as she watched Spike pull his shirt from his body to wring it out. The movement bared his stomach, the strong lines of his abs rippling. She swallowed around the lump in her throat before gripping the door knob.

His hand on hers stopped her from turning the handle. She looked up at the questioning smile on his lips. Buffy turned her face away, running her free hand through her thoroughly drenched hair. Spike released her hand and watched as she fled into the house and up the stairs, his duster fanning out behind her. He heard the slam of the bathroom door, wincing at the sound. He sighed and closed the door, moving to lean against the porch railing. From his bag he pulled out a pack of cigarettes, lighting it with the zippo in his pocket. He dropped the bag to his side, taking a long drag on the cigarette, staring out into the darkness the sound of thunder filling his ears.

Lightning flashed across the sky, lighting to front yard of the Summer’s home. Spike noticed a dark figure with and umbrella across the street, staring intently in his direction. Another flash of lightning revealed Dru’s face, a look of disgust and pain marring her classic features. A bright flash was accompanied by the loud crash of thunder, momentarily blinding Spike for a moment. When his vision cleared he searched the darkness, but she was gone. With a relieved sigh, Spike took one last drag of his cigarette before tossing it into a growing puddle. Picking up his bag, he made his way into the house. ***Chapter 14***Decisions***

The house was dark, the other Summer’s women having gone to bed already. Buffy scrubbed her hair with the towel, trying to wring the moisture from it. She pulled off her soaked clothes, dropping them into a heap on the bathroom floor. She looked at the bedraggled figure in the mirror. Her eyes were bright, staring wide eyes back at her. She touched a hand gingerly to her swollen lips, running a finger over them.

‘What have I done.’ Buffy moaned to herself as she noticed the love bites dotting her neck. ‘He is an evil, soulless killer. He sucks the life out of people.’ She flushed at the memory of Spike’s lips on her flesh. ‘What is with me and the undead.’ Buffy asked herself again, a wry smile tugged at her lips. She stilled her movements as she heard Spike come up the stairs and stop outside the door. She sighed in a mixture of disappointment and relief as she heard him move down the hall and into her bed room.

Buffy looked at herself in the mirror. She took note of the flushed skin and brightness to her eyes.

‘What is it about him?’ She asked herself incredulously. ‘He’s everything I am to hate. I should stake him, not want to be staked by him. Buffy blushed again as her thoughts caused a wave of desire to pulse through her body. Deciding to shower in the morning, she wrapped the towel around her body. A quick brush of her hair and teeth and a scrub with the washcloth left her smooth faced and minty fresh. With a decisive nod of her head, she opened the bathroom door and ran smack dab into Spike.

“What’s with you lurking around the bathroom door?” Buffy asked in a furious whisper, mindful of her sleeping mom and sister. Spike smirked and pointed at her. Her eyes widened in shock at the audacity of Spike, trying to catch a peek. She opened her mouth to reply when he rolled his eyes and reached past her to grab a towel off the rack.

Buffy watched as he pulled his dripping black T-shirt over his head and wrapped the towel around his neck. She stared at the muscles rippling with the movement, her face growing flushed. Seeing her reaction, Spike preceded to stretch causing the muscles to move again. Her breath came in soft gasps, her eyes never leaving his strong pale body.

‘Are you just gonna watch or would you like a taste.” Spike thought then cringed when he realized what her reply would be.

He took a step towards her causing her to step back in response. Buffy looked up and was struck by his piercing gaze. Slowly he advanced with her countering his every step. Buffy ran into the bath tub and would've fell save for the steadying hands Spike put on her bare arms. He ran his hands up and down her arms in a soft caress, leaning towards her. Buffy licked her suddenly dry lips, pulling his gaze from hers to follow the path of the pink tongue.

He lowered his lips to hers but was stopped by a warm hand on his chest. Buffy reluctantly pushed Spike from her, giving her much needed breathing space. Spike looked down at her curiously, his head cocked to the side. Buffy moaned and closed her eyes at the adorable expression on his face.

“We have to stop this.” Buffy said when she got control of herself again. “This is wrong.” Spike’s eyes flashed . He abruptly turned and stalked back to Buffy’s room. Buffy stared after him in shock before closing her eyes and leaning against the wall by the tub. Her eyes shot open when she felt something thrust into her hand. Spike stood before her, his blue eyes flashing gold in anger. Buffy looked at the board in her hand.

‘I know, this thing between us is wrong. I’m not stupid but I can’t stop thinking of you.’ Buffy smiled softly.

“Come on. A vampire and a Slayer?” Spike took back the board.

‘Angel is a vampire.’ Buffy’s eyes hardened, her fists clenching at her sides.

“Angel is good.” Spike sighed and erased his board, scribbling for a moment.

‘I can be too. I’m trying.’

“What happens when you get rid of the chip.” Spike stared a Buffy for a long moment before answering.

‘Nothing changes. I have changed. I patrol with you. Look after your pals and ‘Bit.’ Spike held up a hand when Buffy opened her mouth to answer. She closed it with a snap and waited.

‘I bag it. I’ve changed Buffy.’ The last words were written in dark script. She looked into his eyes, her lips curved into a sad smile.

“Maybe.” Buffy put her hand on his arm, pushing him lightly away. “Goodnight Spike. I’ll bunk with Dawn again. Tomorrow we will get you into the basement.” She walked past him and out of the bathroom. She didn’t stop until she reached the door of Dawn’s room. She placed her hand on the knob and turned back her head to look. Spike stood leaning against the door jamb, staring at her intently, a look of determination on his face.

Spike watched her go into the room, effectively locking him out. Resisting the urge to hit something, he went into the bathroom to wash some of the mud from his skin. He looked up and stared into the mirror, seeing nothing but the wall behind him. A small rubber duck was sitting on the sink. Spike picked it up and proceeded to make it float through the air. With a sigh, he through it into the sink and turned off the light. The dark hall was no match for vampire sight and Spike soon found himself back in Buffy’s room.

Her scent assaulted him from every corner. Her clothing, her bed, the essence of her permeated the room, cloaking him in a seductive mist. He breathed deep and shed the rest of his clothes along with the towel from around his neck. He fell back on the bed, her scent surrounding him. He stared at the ceiling, unable to still his raging hormones.

‘What ever it takes.’ Spike vowed to himself. ‘The next time I sleep in here, she will be with me.’

***Chapter 15***Time***

Spike lay sprawled across the bed, still staring at the ceiling as the sun came up behind the closed blinds. His thoughts refused to leave that of the blonde Slayer in the next room. He closed his eyes and listened closely to the quiet morning.

He could hear the steady heart beats and the soft breath of the Summer’s women in the rooms surrounding his. He listened, trying to distinguish the heart beats from the others. It didn’t take him long to realize that he could only hear two.

Silently, he rose, donning his jeans as he made his way to the door. The hinges squeaked in protest as Spike slowly opened the door, making his way silently into the hall beyond. A quick stop at her door told Spike that Joyce was still lost in slumber. With the grace of the vampire he was, Spike made his way to Dawn’s door and listened. He easily caught the soft sounds of Dawn’s soft snores as she slept through the early morning hours.

Spike shook his head in bemusement before quietly padding down the stairs. A quick check of the main floor failed to reveal Buffy’s form. Spike made his way to the basement and listened at the top of the stairs for sounds of her. He gave up his search with a sigh, knowing that venturing into the early morning sun would be more fatal than helpful. Spike moved to the kitchen and opened the fridge. He rooted around for a moment, pushing jugs of juice and milk out of the way as he searched the cold depths for sustenance. With a pleased smile, he pulled out a bag of blood, holding it up triumphantly. He ripped the bag open, emptying the contents in the ‘Kiss the Librarian’ novelty mug that Giles had included with the stash of blood. He placed the mug in the microwave to heat his snack.

Spike went through the main floor as he waited, closing the stray blind or curtain that was open as he went. He had just gotten back to the kitchen when the microwave made its first beep. Quickly he turned off the noise, lest it wake the slumbering women above. With a silent sigh, he pulled the mug from the microwave, take a deep whiff of the aromatic liquid.

Spike felt his demon come to the front, morphing his features into his vampire visage. He pushed it back with a shake of his head, angry that he had changed without control. A quick stop at the cupboard for the bag of mini marshmallows, he made his way to the dining room and sat down.

Spike stared into his mug as he let his thoughts drift to his Slayer.

‘When did she become *my* Slayer.’ He asked himself with a grimace. A small smile tugged at his lips. ‘Probably when she gave me her blood.’ Spike answered himself. He could clearly remember the taste in his mouth from that morning. The sweet tangy taste that stuck to his tongue, hinting at the greater pleasure that came as the nectar ran freshly from her body.

Spike couldn’t contain his body’s reaction to the memory as a shudder went through him, heating the cool body from within. The tight confines of his jeans became tighter as he remembered the feel of her lips on his. He had dreamed of that very moment for longer than he cared to admit.

The sound of the front door opening pulled Spike from his thought/ He looked up from his mug to see Buffy standing in the doorway, staring at him in shock.

“What are you doing up?” She asked quietly. Spike held up his mug with a smirk, staring her intently. She was dressed in black leather pants and jacket. The collar of a red shirt peeked out the top of the jacket. Spike smile widely at her use of his colors.

Buffy felt her knees weaken at the smile that crossed Spike’s face. She moved towards the head of the table where Spike sat and pulled out a chair, sinking into it gratefully. Buffy felt her skin grow warm as Spike continued to stare at her.

“I figured I should patrol tonight since I skipped last night.” Spike reached a hand up to tug lightly at Buffy’s dry hair. Buffy stared for a moment at him in confusion before realization set in. “The rain stopped almost as soon as it came. It made everything mucky out there.” Spike watched as Buffy spoke, unable to meet his gaze. With a sigh he rose from his chair and pulled Buffy to stand before him.

Spike pulled her close against his body, her hands resting on his chest. He ran his hand over her hair, resting it against her cheek. Buffy unconsciously leaned into his touch, resting her weight against him. He dipped his head to hers but was stopped as Buffy pushed herself forcefully from his grasp.

“We can’t do this.” Hazel eyes met blue in a battle of wills. “We can’t just go from wanting to kill each other to this-this-” Buffy sputtered, waving her hands around in annoyance. “This what ever this is.” Spike took a defiant step forward, his eyes burning into hers.

“You saved my sister. But that doesn’t just make the rest of this just go away.” Spike stopped his movements to look at Buffy. “It takes time.” Buffy’s eyes pleaded with Spike, pulling a soft smile from him. Spike held up a finger and left the room returning shortly with a pad and pen. He passed it to Buffy.

‘I have all the time in the world, pet.’ Buffy smiled at his words and handed the pad back to him.

“That’s all I ask. I need time to figure this all out.” Buffy watched as Spike scribbled for a moment before returning the pad to her.

‘We can take this slow. How about a movie tomorrow night.’ Buffy looked up at the vampire in shock. He motioned for her to flip the page. ‘You’re all I bloody well think about.’ Buffy blushed at the words and smile up at Spike.

“How about renting something and watching it here?” Buffy asked. Spike nodded his head emphatically before realizing what he was doing and going back to his ‘cool’ persona. He took the pad from her hands and wrote for a moment.

‘Anything you want. Anything.’ Buffy looked up and caught the leering look Spike was giving her. Spike noticed her gaze and quickly gave her and innocent look. Buffy smiled and handed back the pad.

“Good night Spike.” Spike’s hand caught Buffy’s as she reached the bottom of the stairs. She looked back as he raised her hand to his lips. Buffy felt her heart skip a beat at the gesture and forced herself to pull away from his grasp.

Spike watched his Slayer head up the stairs, eyeing her rear appreciatively. Buffy turned when she reached the top of the stairs. With a parting smile, she went into Dawn’s room and shut the door softly behind her.

A wide grin refused to leave Spike’s face as he made his way back to his now cold mug of Blood. He took an absent sip, not even noticing the bitter taste.

‘If she wants time, she’s got it.’ Spike thought to himself as he went into the kitchen to rinse his empty mug. He placed it in the sink to dry and made his way back to her room.

Spike stretched before removing his jeans and sliding beneath the covers of Buffy’s bed. Spike breathed deep her scent, a contented smile crossing his lips as he fell into a much needed sleep.

 ***Chapter 16***Plans***

It was late afternoon when Spike finally woke up. The sounds of the Summer’s women below him pulling his lips into a smile. With a minimum of movement, Spike pulled on his jeans and shirt and made his way down the stairs. The sounds of giggling pulled him towards the living room. Dawn and Buffy sat on the couch watching Joyce spin around, showing off the long black evening gown with large flowers in it that she was wearing. Spike leaned against the doorway and watched.

“I might like it more than the others. Can you spin around again?” Buffy asked her mom, a small smile playing on her lips. Joyce spun around and looked at her daughters expectantly.

“Ooh, I'm not sure. Once more.” Dawn urged. Joyce smiled at her daughters and spun again. She held out her arms and looked down at the dress.

“Now could you go the other way?” Buffy asked, a mischievous grin on her lips. Spike couldn’t help but smile at the girls antics. Joyce turned to spin again but stopped and mock glared at her daughters.

“You’re messing with me.” Joyce shook her head and noticed Spike in the door way. “Spike you’re up.” Spike smiled at Joyce and walked into the room, taking a seat between the two Summer’s on the couch. Buffy smiled shyly at Spike before turning back to her mom. Dawn wrapped her arms around Spike in a big hug and smiled.

“’Bout time you got up sleepy head. We were just trying to help mom pick out a dress for her big date tonight.” Spike raised his eyebrows and gave Joyce an appraising look. She ran her hands down the dress nervously and smiled at the assembled group. Spike smiled and nodded his approval, causing Joyce to blush prettily.

“You sure? I mean, it's not too mom-ish?” Joyce asked nervously.

“It's not mom-ish at all.” Buffy reassured her mom. “It's sexy. It screams, ‘Randy sex kitten, buy me one drink and I'll..." Buffy blinks and looks at her mom. “Oh, wait, that's not really good either.” Spike laughs silently and pulls the pad from his back pocket. He moved to Joyce’s side and took her hands in his, giving them a soft squeeze, before passing her the note.

‘You look beautiful.’ Joyce read aloud, smiling up at the vampire. Spike got a bashful look on his face and ducked his head in embarrassment.

“I agree.” Buffy said she came to stand beside Spike. “You will wow him.” Joyce smiled widely and took her daughters hands in hers. Spike took the chance to escape the room, making his way to the kitchen. He could hear the women talking about the impending date, a stray giggle escaping the excited trio.

He had just placed the mug in the microwave when he felt the presence of someone in the room. Spike turned and saw Buffy watching him from the doorway.

“That was really nice what you did in there.” Spike gave Buffy a small smile and turned back to the microwave, waiting silently for the beep. He could feel her moving around the room, the sound of the refrigerator opening and closing. “You can be a really nice guy when you want to.” The microwave beeped, saving Spike from answering. He pulled out the mug and took a sip of the blood, turning to face Buffy. She sat on a stool on the other side of the kitchen block, sipping a glass of orange juice. He made his way over to her and leaned against the counter beside her.

Buffy could feel herself grow warm at his nearness. She looked up into his eyes, her breath catching in her throat at the look in them. Spike put down his mug and turned Buffy so that she was facing him. He bent his head to capture her lips in a soft kiss. He pulled back to look into her eyes for a moment before capturing her lips again.

She met his lips hungrily, opening her mouth willingly to his probing tongue. He ran hands over her arms, pulling her against him. Buffy parted her legs to let Spike step between them, letting them get closer to each other. Spike groaned silently and lowered his hands to the small of her back, pulling her impossibly closer to his cool body. Buffy arched against him, her tongue rubbing against his in a demanding caress.

Almost as soon as they started, Spike pulled away from Buffy, leaving her gasping for breath. Spike picked up his mug and moved to the other side of the kitchen, sipping at the cooling liquid. Buffy was about to speak when the door to the kitchen swung open and Dawn bounded in followed closely by her mom.

“I almost forgot to call Rupert. He said he would look after Dawn since you are going to that party tonight.” Joyce said as she picked up the phone.

“I don’t need a babysitter.” Dawn whined at her mom, as she filled a glass of juice for herself.

“I know. honey. It’s just with all this Glory stuff going on, I feel safer if someone is here with you.” Joyce pushed the buttons on the phone, while Buffy still stared in shock at her family. She saw Spike’s hurt look that he cast her way before carefully concealing it behind his mug.

“Mom, wait.” Buffy said, grabbing the phone from her hands. “I can watch Dawn tonight.” Buffy saw Spike’s eyes light up as they stared at her. “I figured a nice quiet night at home might be nice. We’re going to rent movies and make popcorn. . .” Buffy let her voice trail off, giving her mom a small smile.

“That’s great.” Joyce said, taking the cordless back from her daughter. “I’ll just phone Rupert and cancel.” Joyce left the room, a large smile on her face as Buffy watched in amusement.

“We?” Dawn asked in an excited tone. Buffy looked at her sister questioningly. “You said *we* are going to rent movies. Who else is coming over?” Buffy blushed and sent a glance towards Spike.

“Well, just me and you and Spike. The other’s are probably still going to the party tonight.” Buffy rose from her seat and took her empty glass to the sink.

“Spike?” Dawn asked with a sly grin.

“Well ya. He is staying here for a while and I don’t want to be rude so. . .” Buffy’s voice trailed off again as she refused to meet the vampires gaze. Dawn smiled widely at the pair.

“Sure.” Dawn patted Buffy on the shoulder before dashing from the room with all her teenage energy.

Buffy stared at the counter in front of her, still refusing to meet Spike’s gaze. She felt him move beside her, rinsing out his mug and placing it in the sink beside hers. His arm wrapped around her waist, pulling her against him. Buffy’s hands came up to rest lightly against his chest, still refusing to meet his gaze. Spike pulled her chin up, forcing her to look at him. Buffy saw the soft smile on his lips, and smiled back.

“I don’t want anyone to know about. . .this until I’m sure what this is.” Spike placed a soft kiss on her lips before turning her loose and stepping back. Buffy stumbled for a moment when the pressure of his body left hers. Spike smirked at her and placed a steadying hand on her arm. Buffy slapped his hand away and stormed from the room, a smile upon her lips.

***Chapter 17***Interuption***

Spike spent the rest of the afternoon helping Joyce and Dawn set up the basement as a room for him. t consisted of little more than a single bed with sheets handing off the ceiling to provide him a minimum of privacy. Buffy had left soon after storming from the kitchen to cancel her plans with her friends and pick up some movies.

Spike sat on the bed trying to unsuccessfully read a book while listening to Joyce and Dawn prepare for Joyce’s date. Giggles floated down through the open door of the basement, bringing an indulgent smile to Spike’s lips, interrupting his reading again.

Night fell over the Summer’s home, cloaking it in darkness. Spike could feel the urge to hunt come over him , pulling him towards the shadows. He shook off the feeling and wandered upstairs for a mug of blood.

The microwave had just beeped when the door bell ran. Spike listened as the hair dryer continued to work upstairs. He took his mug from the microwave and made his way to the door. Spike swung the door open to reveal a man about six feet tall with short sandy colored hair.

“Uh, hi.” The man said uncertainly, disconcerted by the vampire’s silent stare. “I’m here to pick up Joyce.” Spike stared at the man for a long moment before stepping aside to let the man past him and into the house. He motioned the man towards the living room with the hand not holding his mug.

Brian, Spike finally remembered the man’s name, sat on the couch to wait, staring around the room with apprehension and a hint of fear. Brian shifted uncomfortably under Spike’s penetrating gaze, watching him slowly sip from his mug.

Dawn came bounding down the stairs, calling Spike’s name, a huge grin on her face. She stopped in the living room doorway and stared at the occupants for a moment in a mixture of shock and confusion. Her eyes widened comically as she turned and ran back up the stairs with a surprised eep.

Spike could hear Dawn tell Joyce that her date was there. A smile crossed his lips, causing Brian to once again shift uncertainly in his seat, as Spike heard Joyce search frantically for her purse.

Spike rose to his feet, thanking vampire hearing, as Joyce started down the stairs. Brian stared at him in confusion before noticing Joyce come down the stairs. Quickly he rose to his feet and came to stand behind Spike, something telling him to stand as far from the man as possible.

Joyce’s eyes lit up when she saw Brian standing uncertainly behind Spike. With a shake of his head, Brian walked over to Joyce and took her hands in his.

“Joyce, you look lovely.” She blushed prettily as Brian raised her hand to his lips. A bit flustered, Joyce grabbed her wrap and turned to her daughter who had come to stand beside Spike.

“You kids have fun tonight.” Dawn smiled at her mom and said good bye. Joyce went to take Brian’s arm as he pulled open the door, revealing Buffy.

Buffy’s slight body was all but hidden by the assortment of boxes and bags that filled her arms. Spike rushed to relieve her of her burden, taking the items into the kitchen, trying to juggle the bags, boxes and his mug in his hands, leaving Buffy to say good bye to her mother.

Spike pulled the items out of the bags, placing bags of chips and popcorn around the boxes of pizza and hot wings that littered the counter. He tossed the bags in the garbage and pulled the movies towards him as he took a seat on the stool pulling out the movies to gage the selection.

Buffy came into the room as Spike looked at the movies. He turned on his stool and held up ‘Interview with a Vampire’ for her to see, his scarred brow raised, a mocking grin on his lips. Buffy blushed and looked away sheepishly.

“I rented that for Dawn. She wanted to see it.” She moved to take the movie form his hands but missed as he pulled it back out of her reach with at grin.

“What did I want to see?” Dawn asked as she entered the kitchen. Spike tossed the movie to Dawn, over Buffy’s head in an effort to keep the tape from her. Dawn looked down at the movie in her hands and tossed it back at Spike with a grimace.

“Ugh, No Way!! That movie’s all your Buffy.” Spike grinned at Buffy, Dawn got an evil look in her eye. “Your the one who watched that movie just cause Brad Pitt and Tom Cruise are in it.” Spike raised his scarred brow at the revelation as Buffy glared at her sister. “Or is it Antonio Bandaras or maybe Christian Slater.” Dawn yelped as she tried to dodge her sister’s attempt to smack her.

“You have no idea what you’re talking about.” Buffy said as she grabbed at her sister. Dawn managed to dodge her again and made her way quickly to the door. laughing.

“Sure I don’t.” Spike watched in amusement as Dawn fled from the kitchen and Buffy glared after her. Buffy turned her gaze on Spike, slowly stalking towards him, glaring at him.

“The movie.” Buffy stated, holding out her hand for the tape. Spike shook his head and stood up from his perch on the stool, holding the tape out of her reach.

“You don’t think you can keep that away from me do you.” Buffy asked, slowly moving towards him. Spike continued to retreat, countering every one of Buffy steps with his own. He ran into the counter as look of shock crossing his face, as an evil grin settled on Buffy’s.

“You get one more chance, dead boy.” Spike grinned and held the tape over his head. Buffy shrugged and jumped for the movie.

Spike caught her around the waist as she launched herself at him, her hand reaching for the tape in his hand. Spike groaned silently as Buffy wiggled against him in her attempt to grab the movie. He pulled her tight against him as his unnecessary breath came in pants. Buffy stopped her movement as she felt Spike stiffen, looking down at him in concern.

“Did I hurt you.” Buffy asked as she took in the strained expression on his face. Spike stared at her for a moment, willing himself to calm down and take things slow like she wanted. Buffy settled against him, her face a mask of concern. He watched as she licked her lips and decided to hell with it and crushed her lips with his.

Buffy was motionless for a moment as her mind struggled to keep up with what was happening. The feel of Spike’s tongue running over her lips brought her out of her daze. Buffy opened her mouth with a groan to his probing tongue. Her hands snaked around his neck, pulling him closer, deepening the kiss even more.

Spike’s hands moved restlessly as he dropped the tape to the counter behind him and gathered her tighter against him. The cool feel of his hands on her bare back, as they snuck beneath her shirt, caused Buffy to shiver. All thoughts of slow left Buffy’s head as Spike’s hand grabbed her ass, pulling her up against him.

Her legs wrapped around his waist as Spike turned them around placed her on the counter. Spike ground himself against her heat, pulling a gasp from her lips, as she tightened her grip with her legs. Buffy pulled away from the kiss panting, desperate for air. Spike ran light kisses down the column of her throat before moving to take her ear lope between his teeth, worrying the tender flesh lightly. Buffy moaned his name quietly, wrapping her fingers in his hair. She pulled his mouth back to hers, pushing her tongue past his lips to battle with his. Spike rocked against her, pulling her hips tighter against him, a low growl coming from deep in his chest.

The sound of Dawn calling her name pulled Buffy slowly from her haze. She pulled her lips from his and shivered as he buried his face in her neck, nibbling softly.

“Spike.” Buffy whispered, her hands tugging lightly at his hair. He raised his head to look at her, his eyes dark with need. Dawn called out again, her voice sounding closer than before.

“Be there in a minute.” Buffy called out , wincing as her voice cracked. Spike gazed at Buffy’s flushed face as she struggled to calm her breathing. She loosened her grip with her legs and pushed lightly at Spike’s chest. Reluctantly he took a step back and watched as Buffy jumped from the counter and straitened her clothes. Dawn’s voice called out again as the kitchen door swung open.

“Are you guys still fighting?” Dawn sighed as she grabbed the boxes of pizza and wings, and one of the movies off he stack. “Come on, or you’ll miss the movie.” Buffy stared after her sister for a moment before her gaze fell on Spike. He stood, leaning against the counter of the sink, his burning gaze running over her body.

“Um, ya movie.” Buffy said, surprised at the husky tone to her voice. She moved away form Spike and grabbed a couple bags of chips on her way to the door.

“Are you coming?” Buffy asked over her shoulder.

‘Not yet.’ Spike said as he grabbed the soda off the counter, following after the Slayer to the living room. ‘Not yet, but soon.’

***Chapter 18***Movie Night***

‘What the hell am I thinking?’ Buffy chided herself as she retreated to the living room. ‘I tell him slow then practically jump him in the kitchen.’ Her face grew warm as she remembered that the *jumping* wasn’t practically, but actually. She could feel his eyes on her as Spike followed her to the living room. His gaze ran over her scorching her.

Dawn sat in the middle of the couch, TV prepped and ready to go. The coffee table was littered with open boxes of pizza and wings. Dawn squealed around the pizza in her mouth and bounced in excitement.

“Bout time you guys got here. I was gonna eat all the pizza and start the movie without you.” Buffy sat down beside her sister, refusing to look at Spike.

Spike watched as she avoided his gaze and took his seat on the other side of Dawn. He set the soda on the table beside the wing and grabbed one from the box. He settled back against the couch with a sigh and turned to the TV as the opening credits started to play.

“Since you guys took so long I get to pick the first movie.” Spike stared at the screen in shock as the first scene of Beauty and the Beast came on. Dawn giggled at his reaction and snuggled next to him.

“I love this movie, don’t you Spike?” Spike unconsciously wrapped his arm around Dawn and glared at her. She giggled again before turning back to the movie.

Buffy watched in amusement as Spike mouthed ‘bloody hell’ in annoyed acceptance. She smiled as Dawn snuggled into Spike’s side, a smile that grew as he wrapped his arm around her and glared at her.

‘He acts like her big brother.’ Buffy smiled to herself, giggling as Spike tried to steal a piece of pepperoni from Dawn’s pizza, only to be slapped away. Her giggle caught in her throat as Spike’s piercing gaze caught hers. His eyes were darker than she had ever seen them, almost devouring her in their intensity. Buffy pulled her gaze from his to stare blankly at the screen, her body growing warm from his attention.

‘This isn’t happening.’ Buffy moaned to herself. ‘I am *not* falling for another vampire. He is soulless, a killer. Ok, so he has saved the world a couple of times. He isn’t really that evil anymore. But this is so totally wrong.’ She sighed and tried to concentrate on the movie.

Spike half heatedly watched the movie, having read the story years ago. He was more fascinated at the play of emotions on Buffy’s face. It was obvious that she was not interested in the movie anymore than he was.

Her hair shone a honey gold in the soft lamp light. The silky strands laying loose about her shoulders. He couldn’t help feel the urge to reach out and capture a soft lock between his fingers. Watching her was fascinating, a portrait of perfection. Spike smile ruefully as his poetic side couldn’t help but be released with his appreciation of her beauty. Buffy licked stray pizza sauce off her fingers, causing Spike to shift uncomfortably in his seat. Dawn looked up at Spike worriedly.

“Buffy trade me spots. I wanna lean but I think me leaning on Spike is hurting him.” Buffy stared at her sister in a mix of horror and shock. “Come on. You’re just sitting there.” Dawn stood up from her seat and waited expectantly for Buffy to shift over. Spike’s gaze caught with Buffy’s frightened one. He lowered his hand to the seat beside him, patting it softly, a smirk on his lips.

‘Come on Slayer.’ Spike thought to himself, as indecision warred within Buffy. ‘I don’t bite.’ His smirk grew into a leer, causing Buffy to squirm. ‘Not unless you want me to.

Buffy slid over closer to Spike, careful not to touch him. Dawn huffed down in her new seat and returned to her movie. Buffy sat ramrod straight beside Spike, refusing to relax her stance. Spike smiled at the uncomfortable Slayer and turned his gaze to the movie. Buffy couldn’t help but feel a little hurt when Spike didn’t try anything with her seated so close.

‘Bad Buffy.’ She chided herself. ‘No more wanting the undead.’ She relaxed into her seat as she got caught up in the movie.

Spike could feel her heat, scorching him, as she settled closer to him. Her scent surrounded him, causing his pants to bite into tender flesh as they grew tighter. The movie was preempted as Spike watched Buffy eat from the bag of chips she snagged. His watched raptly as she would lick each finger after each chip, her tongue wrapping around her finger softly.

The fact that she was so close but not touching finally ran it toll on Spike. With an exaggerated yawn, Spike stretched and rested his arm on the back of the couch. Buffy couldn’t help but smile at his gesture and angled her back towards him. Spike grinned at her move and slowly dropped his arm around her shoulders. Buffy slid closer to Spike, resting her body against his, her hand resting comfortably on his thigh. Spike pulled her closer and sighed in contentment, glad that Buffy hadn’t pulled away with Dawn sitting there. With her next to him, Spike was able to relax and concentrate on the movie and the feel of her against him.

Spike was struck by the similarities between the movie and his own life. The Big Bad Beast falling in love with the beautiful Belle. Her over coming her fears of his evilness to love him back. He hugged Buffy against him as Belle looked into the mirror at the Beast with a loving caress.

Buffy was preoccupied with the feel of Spike against her to pay much attention to the movie. The octagonal squeeze he gave her made burst of pleasure sing through her body. She was so preoccupied that she failed to notice the movie end. Dawn jumped up to remove the tape and noticed for the first time how close her sister was to Spike. Buffy noticed Dawn’s stare at blushed.

“What? I was just suppose to sit there uncomfortably while you sat in my spot?” Buffy asked her sister playfully. “Besides he is getting soft around the middle. It makes him a great pillow.” Spike gave the Slayer a mock glare and pulled her across his lap, an evil glint in his eye. His hands slid down her sides in a soft caress. Buffy swallowed the lump in her throat as she stared at Spike. He smirked evilly and tickled his fingers against her ribs.

Buffy squealed and tried to pull away but Spike’s vampire strength held her firm. Dawn watched in amusement as her sister tried unsuccessfully to escape the clutches of the vampire. She couldn’t help but giggle as she remembered the last tickle fight she had saw. Riley had tickled Buffy’s foot and she kicked from his grasp, cracking a few ribs in the process.

Dawn threw in the next movie and sat back down in her seat. Spike stopped tickling as Buffy cried ‘uncle’ and let her slid back into her seat. Buffy whipped the tears from her eyes and elbowed Spike in the ribs forgetting to temper her Slayer strength. She winced and waited for the answering one but was greeted as Spike simply laughed and wrapped his arm back around her.

‘One benefit to a vampire boyfriend.’ Buffy thought to herself as she settled back against him. ‘Can’t hurt him as easy.’ The opening credits of the next movie stared, pulling the trio into the story.

***Chapter 19***Just When You Think. . .***

Dawn shifted in her seat for the third time before sighing and dropping to the floor. She sprawled out on her side, staring fixedly at the screen. Spike noticed Buffy look longingly at her sister and gestured for Buffy to lay down. With a smile Buff laid down on her side, her head pillowed on Spike’s thigh. Spike ran his hand through Buffy’s hair, the silky strands tangling around his fingers softly. Buffy sighed contently at his caress, her body growing heavy with relaxation.

It didn’t take long for Spike to get caught up in the movie. His hand continued to absently caress Buffy’s hair. The credits began to roll across the screen, the soft music filling the quiet house. He looked down at the Slayer laying on his lap and smiled.

Her face was so peaceful, the pain and stress of the day left her when sleep took over her weary body. Her chest rose and fell softly with her breath, a small smile on her lips. Spike stared at her in wonder, amazed at how young and innocent she looked when the ravages of her life were freed by peaceful slumber.

Dawn shifted on the floor before jumping up to take out ht movie. He stretched and yawned as she turned to face the couch. A smile let her face as she noticed her sister asleep on the vampire. Spike held up his finger to his lips to signal Dawn not to speak. Dawn grinned at Spike and yawned again. With a sheepish expression, Dawn kissed Spike lightly on the cheek and quiet ‘good night’, before heading upstairs to bed. Spike sat for a moment staring after Dawn, shocked at her gesture.

‘Since when did I get to be a pet vamp?’ Spike asked himself incredulously. ‘Mom always said not to play with your food.’ Spike looked down at Buffy, staring at her for a long moment, unable to pull his gaze from her sleeping form.

The clock on the mantle chimed eleven o’clock, breaking the silence of the room. Buffy stirred from her position, her hand coming up to rest on Spike’s knee. Spike watched as her eye lids fluttered before opening to look sleepily around the room. She took in the fact that the TV was off and sat up quickly, looking around for her sister.

Her gaze fell on Spike and saw him gesture to the upstairs and mouth ‘in bed.’ Buffy relaxed against the couch, her hand coming up to stifle a yawn. She gave Spike a sheepish look similar to her sisters and laughed.

“You should’ve woken me, It couldn’t be comfortable laying with me on your leg.” Spike reached a hand over and brushed a piece of hair that had fallen into her face, tucking it behind her ear. He let his hand rest against her cheek in a gentle caress. Buffy closed her eyes and leaned into his touch.

Spike shifted closer to Buffy and brushed her lips with his. He pulled back and stared at Buffy’s closed eyes. When he didn’t move in again, Buffy opened her eyes and stared back into the blue depths.

“What are we doing.” Buffy asked incredulously, her voice barely a whisper. Spike smiled and brushed her lips with his again, lingering longer this time. Buffy sighed and rested her forehead against his, her eyes closed, when he finally pulled back.

“This is so wrong. Why can’t we stop.” Spike pulled back sharply from Buffy, causing her to fall forward a bit. Buffy opened her eyes in shock and saw Spike scribbling in his note book. He thrust the note into her hands and stared at her intently.

‘Who bloody cares if this is wrong. I want you, you want me. Simple.’ Buffy looked up at Spike and sighed.

“Not simple. And the slow thing? Not so much. I still can’t figure out what this is.” Spike took back the not pad before scribbling on it for a few minutes and handing it back to her.

‘People in the workplace, feelings develop.’ Buffy smiled and looked up at Spike. Before she could speak he motioned for her to flip the page. ‘Heat, desire, it’s a start, the rest we can make up as we go along.’ Buffy stared at Spike for a long moment causing him to shift uncomfortably under her scrutiny. She shifted in her seat, moving closer to Spike and put her hand on his thigh. He sat still as she brushed her lips across his.

“There is something here.” Spike smirked and shook his head before moving her hand up his thigh slowly. Buffy’s eyes widened and she pulled her hand back to slap him halfheartedly on the chest. “You’re bad.” Buffy said before he caught her lips in a bruising kiss. Buffy moaned as his tongue sought entrance into to her mouth, tangling with hers. Spike’s hands ran over her arms, pulling her closer to him. A low purr rumbled out of Spike’s chest as Buffy straddled him and pressed her body against his. The vibrations ran through her body, pulling a gasping moan from her lips.

Buffy tangled her fingers in his hair, rubbing her chest against his, shivering at the delicious friction. Spike’s hand moved under Buffy’s top and deftly undid her bra, before moving his hands to pull her shirt over her head. As soon as the shirt was gone, Buffy threw her bra across the room and pulled frantically at Spike’s shirt. Lips parted briefly, as his shirt was flung across the room in the same direction as Buffy’s bra, before devouring each other again.

Cold skin met scorching heat as Buffy pressed against Spike again. His hands ran over her bare back, cooling her burning skin while igniting it more with his caress. Buffy dropped her head back and moaned low in her throat as Spike slid his hand around to her front, stroking her breast lightly. She pressed herself harder against him, pulling a tortured gasp from his lips, as he bucked against her. She smiled at his reaction and sighed contently as his hands continued to caress her breasts, running a callused thumb over the tips, sending sharp waves of pleasure right to her core.

Spike’s lips moved down the column of her throat, leaving a chilling trail of blazing heat behind. Buffy arched into his mouth, eager to get his lips on her aching flesh. Spike smiled into her skin and ran a cool tongue down the valley of her breast, causing Buffy to moan in disappointment.

One of his hands left her breast to snake around her waist, pulling her up to his searching mouth. Spike nibbled on the underside of her breast, coming closer to where she needed it most, when the door opened and the sound of a horrified gasped filled the air.

 ***Chapter 20***Caught***

Buffy looked dazedly to the door way to meet the shocked gaze of her mother. Buffy jumped from her perch on Spike’s lap and frantically grabbed for her shirt, covering her bare chest, face bright red. Spike looked at Buffy in shock as she pulled away before noticing Joyce in the doorway.

“Buffy, I want to speak to you now.” Joyce ground out between clenched teeth. “Spike,” Spike jumped to his feet before Joyce could continue and retreated from the room. Buffy slipped her shirt over her head as her mom watched Spike head to the basement, crossing her arms over her braless chest. Her eyes scanned the room, searching for the missing clothing.

“I think this is what you are looking for.” Joyce said as she pointed to the bra laying over the lampshade on the desk. Buffy blushed brighter, refusing to meet her mother’s gaze. Joyce looked down at her daughter and sighed.

“Buffy, what are you doing? Spike is a vampire, he’s dangerous. If I hadn’t’ve walked in how far would’ve you taken things. What if Dawn woke up and heard you and cam to see what was wrong? Can you afford to pay for the therapy she would need after having walked in on you two? Did you think of that? Did you think of Dawn asleep upstairs? Did you think at all?” Buffy stared at her lap, unable to answer. “I know you are in college now and you are a woman, not a little girl but really Buffy.” Joyce sighed in frustration. “To do that in the living room where your sister could walk in at any moment is bad enough but Spike’s a vampire.”

“I’m sorry.” Buffy said refusing to meet her mother’s gaze.

“Sorry won’t cut it this time Buffy. What were you thinking?” Joyce ranted. Buffy cringed from her mom.

“I wasn’t thinking. We were watching movies then the next thing I knew,” Buffy waved her hand vaguely in the air, unable to say the words.

“Buffy, Spike is dangerous.” Joyce asked quietly. Buffy’s startled eyes met her mother’s.

“If he is so dangerous why is he staying in our home? Why does he have an invite at all?” A look from Joyce made Buffy lower her voice from the yell it had rose to. “He saved Dawn’s life and almost lost his own. It’s just, he can be sweet. I don’t know what I feel about him but why do you not trust him all of a sudden. I thought you liked hi-” Buffy broke off when her mom smiled.

“I like Spike, I really do. He can be a great help, protecting us against Glory but he is still a vampire. He doesn’t have a soul. He is dangerous and what happens if you don’t work out. What would he do? Look at the lengths he went to with Drucilla.” Buffy winced at the vampire’s name.

“As long as it’s still chips ahoy with Spike we don’t have to worry. Besides he has changed.” Joyce took Buffy’s hand in hers.

“What happens if he gets rid of the chip or it stops working? You are my daughter and I don’t want to see you get hurt. Buffy smiled and squeezed her mom’s hand.

“He says nothing will change, that he has changed. I think I believe him. There’s just something about him.” Buffy said with a shy smile. “But how was your date?”

“No way, we are talking about you here. And never making out on the couch ever again.” Buffy nodded vigorously.

“Never ever. No more ever.” Buffy smiled at her mom. “Now spill.”

“We will talk about this some more.” Joyce gave Buffy a warning look.

“As soon as I figure out what is going on I will tell, now spill. If it helps, you can ground me, just tell me about your date.” Joyce laughed.

“All right. But I suppose by your standards it could seem pretty tame.” Buffy blushed causing her mother to laugh. “I had forgotten how much fun dating could - oh no.” Buffy looked up at her mom worriedly.

“I think I left *my* bra in his car.” Buffy stared at Joyce with a mixture of horror and disgust. “Just kidding.”

“Mother, good God that’s horrible.” Joyce raised her eye brow and looked pointedly at the bra still handing from the lamp. Buffy jumped up and stuffed the offending object in her back pocket.

“Besides, I think I really left it in the restaurant.” Buffy covered her ears and ran towards the kitchen, the sounds of her mother’s laughter following after her.

***********

Buffy ran into the kitchen, her hands still conferring her ears. She stopped short when she saw Spike leaning against the counter, sipping from a mug. His eyes roamed over her body, leaving a searing heat behind. His gaze finally met hers, a concerned expression on his face.

“I thought you escaped to the basement?” Buffy asked quietly. Spike held up his mug and passed her the notebook.

‘I was worried about you.’ Buffy smiled, a flush of warmth running through her.

“So what, you just know what I was going to ask?” Spike smirked and shrugged his shoulders. “Did you hear everything we said?” Spike nodded, his smirk shifting into a soft smile. “Everything?” Buffy asked wistfully. Spike nodded slowly.

“Yep.” His voice came out barely over a whisper. Buffy’s eyes widened as she heard his voice.

“You have your voice back?” Spike laughed silently and shook his head. “Well ok, not back but it is healing? Why didn’t you say so earlier?”

“’urts.” Buffy took a step closer, her ears straining to hear him even with her Slayer hearing. Spike took the opportunity to pull Buffy hard against him, his arms snaking around her waist. Buffy let out an eep of surprise before resting her weight against him. He lowered his lips to hers but was stopped by a firm hand on his chest.

“Not here, mom could walk in on us again.” Spike smiled and stared walking backwards, pulling Buffy with him towards the basement.

“I’m not going down their with you.” Spike pouted at Buffy, pulling a giggle from her lips. “I have school tomorrow, and it’s late.” Buffy tried to pull away but was stopped by Spike’s arms that were still around her.

“Gotta pay the toll.” Spike whispered, his cool breath tickling her ear.

“And what is the price? Buffy asked coyly, resting against him once more. Spike lowered his lips to hers, his tongue pushing his way into her unresisting mouth. Buffy moaned and clutched at his arms, letting him hold her up. Buffy broke the kiss for much needed air, her breath coming in short pants.

“Gotta love the price.” Buffy whispered, her body limp against his.

“Now you *havta* pay.” Spike grinned mischievously at Buffy. Buffy grinned and raised her lips to his.

Tongues battled furiously Buffy wrapped her fingers in his hair, pulling his mouth impossibly closer to hers. Spike’s hands ran down her back to bury themselves in her back pockets, pulling her up hard against him. Buffy moaned into his mouth, a shiver of need coursing through her body. Buffy rubbed against Spike, pulling a tortured moan from his lips.

“We have to stop.” Buffy gasped as Spike ran his tongue from her ear down the column of her neck. Blunt teeth nipped at her jugular, causing Buffy to gasp. Buffy reluctantly pulled Spike’s seeking mouth from her neck, forcing him to look at her.

“Good night.” Buffy said, before placing a hard passionate kiss on his lips, and running all the way to her bedroom.

Spike looked after her, a wide grin on his face. He looked at the scrap of silk in his hand. ‘Knew those pilfering tactics would come in handy someday.’ Spike wrapped Buffy’s bra around his fingers, reveling in the feel of the soft material. He brought the fabric to his face and breathed deep. ‘Now I just need to get the other part of this set.’ He thought, before heading to his new room.

***Chapter 21***Gratitude***

The next day dawned bright and warm.. Windows were thrown open to allow the moist morning air to dispel the gloom of the cool night. The inhabitants if the Summer’s home rushed about their morning tasks. The scent of maple filled the air as the bacon sizzled and popped in the frying pan. Muffled shouts could be heard as sisters fought for time in the bathroom.

Joyce smiled as she heard her youngest pounding on a door, screaming at her sister. Joyce turned from the stove with a shake of her head and saw a sleep rumpled Spike standing in the corner of the kitchen, shying away from the sunlight that poured from the open window.

“Let me get that.” Joyce said as she quickly closed the blinds, clocking the deadly rays form the vampire. Spike smiled his thanks and moved to take a seat at the island. Spike was oblivious to Joyce moving around the kitchen until a hot mug of blood was thrust under his nose.

“Thanks mum.” Spike croaked, earning a sweet smile from Joyce.

“So you’ve got your voice coming back. That’s good.” A shriek pierced the air before Spike could reply, the vampire wincing at the sound.

“Banshees?” Spike asked with at smirk.

“Don’t I wish. Then Buffy could just slay them and we could have a nice quiet morning.” Joyce replied with a laugh. Spike joined in the laughter, his voice deep and husky. The sounds of pounding overhead stopped, Spike heaved a sigh of relief.

“So what are you doing up so early? I thought vampires slept all day.” Spike opened his mouth to answer but was distracted when Buffy breezed into the kitchen.

She looked stunning in her pale yellow sundress. The hem stopped well above her knees giving Spike a good look at her golden skin. Spike shifted uncomfortably as thought of those tanned legs wrapping themselves around him. Spike’s blue eyes traveled over her soft curves to meet Buffy’s amused gaze. Spike’s lips moved into a smirk as he blatantly ran his gaze over her again, a soft blush covering her features. Spike had forgotten that Joyce was in the room until she spoke.

“Breakfast is almost ready.” Joyce said as she placed a plate full of toast beside a bowl of scrambled eggs. “The bacon is almost done. I need to get dressed, can you finish it up, honey.” Joyce asked, oblivious to the looked the vampire and slayer were giving each other.

“Sure mom.” Buffy said, pulling her gaze from his to give her mother a smile. Joyce returned her daughters smile before handing over the spatula in her hand and heading upstairs. Spike wasted no time in rising from his seat and pulling Buffy towards him.

“Mornin’ Slayer.” Spike whispered huskily, dipping his lips to capture hers. Buffy returned his kiss whole heartily. Spike’s hands rested on her hips, pulling her closer to him. Buffy dropped the spatula to the counter and wound her fingers in the silky strands of his hair. She moaned as Spike ground himself against her, a slash of heat accompanying his action.

The scent of something burning made Buffy pull her lips from his and push him from her. Spike stood dazed for a moment, shocked at the sudden retreat she had made. He smiled softly as he watched Buffy scoop the bacon from the frying pan and onto an awaiting plate.

Buffy swore as the grease in the pan popped, hitting her arm as she moved the pan to a cold burner. She rubbed at the grease with her other hand, trying to alleviate some of he burning sensation. Buffy turned and found herself face to face with Spike once again. She took in a sharp breath, surprised to find him so close. Her breath became shallow as he ran his hand over her sore arm, staring into hers intently. Slowly, as if not to startle her, Spike raised her arm to his lips, darting out his tongue to caress her soft skin.

All thought of pain left her mind as Spike ran his lips over her arm, his cool tongue leaving a soothing trail behind. Buffy leaned into Spike as he made his way up her arm, moving behind her as he went. He ran his lips over her shoulder, interrupted only by the small spaghetti strap of her dress. Buffy sighed as his lips met her skin again, moving over the smooth skin of her shoulder, pushing her hair out of his way. She tilted her head to the side to allow him better access as his lips sucked lightly on her neck. Buffy shivered at the thought of the dangerous creature so close to the vein in her neck. She cried out in pleasure as his blunt teeth bit down lightly on her jugular, wave after wave of heat flashing through her body at his touch.

Spike wrapped his hands more securely around her waist, pulling her closer as she sagged against him. He moved his mouth up to her ear, capturing the lobe between his teeth, pulling another moan from her lips.

“I like the dress, pet.” Spike whispered in her ear as he continued his assault of her neck.

“Good.” Buffy sighed, a small smile playing on her lips. “I wore it for you.” Spike chuckled at her unexpected candor, the feel of his cool breath sending a tingling sensation all the way to her toes. Spike gave her neck one last chaste kiss before pulling away from her and moving back to his seat.

Buffy tottered for a moment at the loss of his body, staring after him in shock. Spike sat down on his stool, raising his mug to his lips. He gave the door a pointed look just as Dawn came into the room, a wide smile on her face as she saw Spike.

“Spike, your awake.” She cried as she rushed to give him a hug, almost knocking the blood from his hand.

“Easy there, Nibblet.” Spike croaked, his voice cracking slightly. Dawn pulled back, her eyes widened in shock, before launching herself back into his arms. Only Vampire coordination kept the mug from being dropped to the floor. He set the mug on the counter, well away from the excited teen before patting her back awkward.

Buffy watched in amusement as her sister embraced the embarrassed vampire. The imploring look he sent her way sent her into helpless giggles.

“Dawn leave Spike alone and eat your breakfast.” Joyce said, catching the look of the vampire. Spike smiled at Joyce as Dawn released her death grip and moved to take a seat of her own.

“You burned the bacon, Buffy.” Dawn whined as she pulled out a crispy piece, holding it up and staring at it in distaste. Buffy blushed as she took her own seat on the other side of Spike. Spike smiled at her and plucked the burnt bacon from Dawn’s grasp, popping it in his mouth.

“Just the way I like it.” Spike grinned, sucking the grease from his fingers. Dawn gave him a disgusted look before turning back to her breakfast.

Buffy squeezed his thigh in thanks, her hand lingering on the taunt muscle. Spike bit back a groan as her hand lightly caressed the denim clad skin. Buffy gave him her most innocent look, as Spike sent a pained glare her way. She removed her hand from his leg to snatch a piece of bacon from the plate.

Joyce watched in amusement as the three bickered over the plate of bacon, all vying for the last piece. She stifled a laugh as both her daughters pinned the helpless vampire, who had grabbed up the last piece, with their puppy dog eyes. She couldn’t hold back her laugh as Spike sighed in mock defeat and broke the piece in half, handing the halves to the girls on either side of him.

“I’m off to pick up a few things, do you girls need a ride.” Dawn nodded around the toast in her mouth and took off to her room after a dropping her plate in the sink.

“I don’t have class till ten.” Buffy told her mom. “I was going to head over to the Magic Box in a bit. But I can walk.” Joyce nodded and grabbed her purse from the counter.

“Just leave the dishes, I’ll wash them when I get back.” With a parting smile, Joyce yelled for her youngest to hurry. Dawn left the house, slamming the door behind her, leaving Spike and Buffy alone.

Spike watched Buffy intently as she moved nervously around the kitchen. Stacking the dirty dishes in the sink and wiping the counter. He smiled at her, marveling that she could be so nervous with him still.

“Buffy.” She jumped as he said her name, his voice deep and husky. “What are you doing, pet?” Buffy gave Spike an embarrassed look, a flush covering her cheeks.

“Avoiding.” She said sheepishly.

“Me?” Spike asked with a hurt look.

“No.” Buffy quickly reassured. “Well, not just you. Me, us, this-this thing between us. What are we doing?” Buffy gave Spike a searching look, her eyes bright with fear. “I mean. I know what we are doing. It’s just what is this thing with us?” Spike sighed and moved to take her in his arms but Buffy eluded his grasp. Spike gave her a hurt look.

“What do you mean?” Spike crossed his arms over his chest, staring at her.

“I need time.” Buffy sighed. “I want you. I know this, you know this but this thing,” Buffy pointed alternately between Spike and herself. “It shouldn't be happening. Sure you saved my sister but this can't just be about gratitude. I don't know what I feel but I know I need time to figure it out.”

“Gratitude?” Spike croaked in disbelief. “Is that all this has been to you?”

“No!” Buffy sighed in frustration. “I don’t know. That’s what I want to find out.”

“Bollocks. What is there to find out. I want you, you want me. Simple. Direct.” Spike glared at Buffy. Buffy ran her hands through her hair in exasperation.

“I need more than that.” Buffy said angrily. “That’s what I need time for.”

“Well fine.” Spike said angrily. “Take all the bloody time you need.”

“Fine I will.” Buffy pushed past Spike, grabbing her bag from beside the front door. “I will be back later. Stay out of my room.” Buffy wrenched the door open, slamming it shut behind her. Spike stared after her angrily, a heavy feeling in his chest.

“Bloody hell!” Spike yelled as he threw his mug against the refrigerator in anger, splattering blood over the white surface. He started to cough as the shouting took its toll on his still healing throat. He filled a glass from the tap, downing the luke warm liquid quickly.

Spike surveyed the damage when he got control of his cough. With a sigh he picked up the broken shards of the mug.

‘Bloody hell.’ Spike thought to himself, his throat raw from yelling. ‘Bollocks it up again haven’t I.’ Spike dropped the pieces into the garbage, snagging a towel to wipe up the mess. The mess was quickly cleaned up. Spike grabbed the blood stained rags and made his way back to the basement. He threw the dirty towel into the washer before flopping down on his bed.

Sleep was a long time in coming.

 ***Chapter 22***Darkness Falls***

Spike awoke with a start, sitting up in bed, frantically searching the unfamiliar surroundings for the source of the noise. The doorbell rang again and he fell back on the cot with a sigh. Reluctantly he pulled himself from the bed, running his fingers through his sleep tousled hair. He grabbed the bag he had retrieved from his crypt and pulled out his comb and gel, making quick work of his hair.

He walked into the front hall and couldn’t help but laugh as Joyce was all but hidden behind a large bouquet of flowers. He saw her reach blindly for the table beside the door, missing the object by quite a few feet. Spike plucked the vase from her hands and deposited his fragrant load onto the table.

“Thank you dear.” Joyce smiled at Spike. Spike in turn ducked his head and smiled back shyly. “Spike we need to talk.” Joyce motioned for him to take a seat in the living room.

“Your new beau send you those flowers, Joyce?” Spike asked nervously, cursing his cowardliness.

‘’M suppose to be the Big Bad and I can’t even talk with the Slayer’s mum.’ Spike chided himself.

“Yes, Brian sent then, aren’t they beautiful.” Spike nodded and smiled with relief at his respite. The relief was short lived.

“We need to talk about you and my daughter.” Joyce said grimly causing Spike to shift uncomfortably in his seat. “How old are you?” Spike looked up in shock. Startled at the unexpected question.

“’M not as old a s the poof.” Spike croaked out, his throat constricting with pain. Joyce stared for a moment in confusion before the reference dawned on her. She couldn’t help but smile. “I was in my mid twenties when I was turned. Dru sired me in 1880.” Spike said quietly, his throat sore from disuse and his injury. Joyce shook her head incredulously.

“You were a vampire for over a hundred years before Buffy was even born.” Joyce stared at the vampire. “I'm worried about you two. I don't have to tell you that you and Buffy are from different worlds.” Spike sighed and shook his head.

“Our worlds aren’t so different. Not anymore at least.” Joyce gave Spike an imploring look, waiting for him to continue. “We both slay and look after both you and the Nibblet.”

“There is more to her life than slaying and her family. She has school, and friends an-”

“She has friends who help with the whole slaying deal. Witches, ex-demon, watcher, and the whelp. What does he do anyway.” Joyce couldn’t help but laugh. “School is yes, something she has that is different but-” Spike gave Joyce a helpless look.

“I know you care for her.” It was Spike’s turn to stare at Joyce in shock. “It obvious you care for her. You are different then other vampires. But you are still a vampire and Buffy’s had to deal with a lot already. Grew up fast. Sometimes even I forget that she's still just a girl.”

“What happens if the chip stops working. That is what you really want to know.” Spike said quietly, looking at Joyce intently.

“Well, yes. I’m concerned for my daughter. You are a vampire Spike. You tried to kill her before.” Spike smiled and rubbed his head ruefully.

“You’re kinda mean with an axe, Joyce. I’d be more worried about what you would do.” Joyce couldn’t help but smile.

“What happened with Drucilla. We talked about this before, but. . .” Joyce let her voice trail off as Spike sighed and ran his fingers through his hair.

“Bloody hell, Dru.” Spike rose to his feet and started passing. “She left me. Said the Slayer was all around me. In my bloody head she was. She said I tasted like ashes. Didn’t bloody want me.” Spike ranted, the old feelings rising to the surface. Joyce watched as emotions warred for dominance on the enraged vampire’s face. “She even came back a couple of days ago.” Joyce sat back with an alarmed look. Spike noticed Joyce recoil and tried to smile reassuringly. “I told her she had bloody well leave and never come back. She new about the chip. She wanted to help get it out and go after-” Spike’s voice choked in his throat at the thought. He went back to his place at Joyce’s side and gave her a helpless look.

“What the bloody hell is wrong with me?” Spike croaked, his voice growing hoarse with the strain of talking. “I turned my back on my sire, the love of my bleeding’ life. You have the slightest idea what she meant to me? She was the face of my salvation!” A small smile crossed Spike’s face at the memory. “She delivered me from mediocrity. For over a century we ... cut a swath through continents. A hundred years, she never stopped surprising me.” Joyce looked at Spike in a mixture of horror and tenderness, her heart going out to the blonde vampire.

“Never stopped taking me to new depths. I was a lucky bloke. Just to touch such a black beauty.” Spike shook his head to clear it of the images. “Then she had to go and ruin it all.”

“By leaving you.” Joyce said, nodding in understanding.

“Not Dru, Buffy. She cluttered up my brain, filling my head with thoughts and ideas.” Spike said, his face a mask of pain. Joyce stared at the silent vampire, her eyes lighting with comprehension.

“You fell in love with her.” Spike stared at his clasped hands, unable to look at his love’s mother.

“It doesn’t matter now anyway. I buggered it up good, I did.” Spike said quietly, his voice filled with pain.

“What did you do?” Joyce asked, a hint of apprehension in her voice. Spike looked up in surprise.

“I didn’t hurt her or nothing, couldn’t even if I didn’t have this bloody chip.” Joyce sighed in relief. “I thought things were going good, after last nig-” Spike broke off and gave Joyce a sheepish look. “Which I’m sorry about by the way.” Joyce smiled reassuredly and waited for him to continue. “She says she wants time and I got impatient and pushed and she left.”

“Give her time. She has wanted a normal life for so long, but it doesn’t make her happy.” Joyce smiled at Spike. “And as much as I hate the idea of my daughter getting involved with another vampire, there is no one else I would have wanted for her.” Spike stared at Joyce with a mixture of shock and pleasure. “We both know she isn’t a normal girl, no matter how hard she tries. Her life won’t be a long o-” Joyce broke off, her voice laced with pain, her eyes filling with pain. Spike put his hands over hers, squeezing reassuredly.

“She will if I have anything to bloody well say about it.” Joyce smiled and squeezed back, before patting his hands and raising to her feet.

“Well that’s enough serious talk for one afternoon. The girls will be home soon and you know how hungry growing girls can be.” Spike laughed and rose to his feet as well.

“Worse then bloody fledglings they are.” Joyce laughed and took a step forward.

Her hand raised to her forehead, her eyes closing as a bout of dizziness came over her. She let out a small moan and wobbled unsteadily on her feet.

“Joyce, what’s wrong.” Spike demanded, a worried expression on his face.

“Just a little light headed is all.” Spike took her arm and guided her back down to the couch. She smiled softly at the vampire before her eyes rolled back into her head and she slumped back on the couch. The last sound she heard before the darkness overwhelmed her was the sound of Spike’s voice calling her name.

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