Chapter 1

“I hate you!” Buffy ran up the stairs, sobbing all the way. “I never, ever want to see your stupid face again!” She slammed her bedroom door and fell against it. Leaning her head back, she could hear her friend crying as well. “Go away, William!”

“I take it back!”

“I don’t care! I still hate you!”
***

After minutes of silence, William sat close to her closed door. He experimentally wiggled his fingers underneath it and yelped as Buffy pounded on him. “Hey!”

“Go away,” Buffy demanded, her voice hoarse.

“I’m not. I take it back…it’s just you’ve been so mean lately.”

“It has nothing to do with them! They can get a stupid divorce and I won’t care!”

“You can stay at my house,” William suggested, wiping his nose on the back of his hand. “I’ll give you the top bunk.”

“You’d give me the top one just because you’re too much of a baby to use it yourself. Every time you climb up there, you cry and your mommy has to get you down.”

“Do not,” William pouted, knowing it was true. “Fine, you can live in the dog house then.”
***

Buffy recognized him instantly and she glared holes into his head. I can’t believe it, she thought.

“Buffy, come meet my friend.”

“But…food,” she whined, her little plate empty as Cordelia drug her away.

“Buffy, this is William.”

They looked each other in the eyes, both of them silent.

“William is a teacher and he’s going to start teaching at the high school.”

“Oh,” Buffy said, as she wondered if she should quit her job as counselor at Sunnydale’s only high school. “What do you teach?”

“English,” William answered and Buffy huffed and rolled her eyes. “You actually counsel kids? On what, how to do their hair and the art of cheating on their boyfriends without getting caught?”

“You asshole,” she hissed, tears filling her eyes. Without thinking, Buffy kicked William in the shin with her pointed shoe. As he yelped and cursed Buffy ran out of the party.
***

“I’m sorry, I still hate you but not as much.” Buffy sat next to William on the curb. “My dad’s moving away tomorrow.”

He nodded, “My mom bought macaroni and cheese with the dinosaur shaped noodles. I’m having it tomorrow after we go to the Natural History Museum…my mom already said you could come over.” William picked up a twig from the ground and poked her bright pink sneaker. “Your shoes are bloody ugly, Buffy.”

“I’m telling!” Buffy shot up to her feet. “You’re such a potty mouth! I’m telling!”

“Don’t” William chased her as she ran through the yards and to his house. “No!”
***

“William, what the hell was that about?”

“Nothing.” He grimaced, rubbing his sore leg. “Stupid--. Will she ever grow up?”

“You were the one that accused her of being bad at her job,” Cordelia pointed out. “I think you deserved it but still, I’ve never seen Buffy act like this.”

“I have,” he grumbled.

“What?”

“Nothing.”
***

Buffy giggled and William’s eyes filled with fear.

“No, not the blue stuff,” he whined. “I’ll never do it again, I swear.”

“Liar, liar,” Buffy danced as William’s mother was about to wash his mouth out with soap. “He said my shoes were,” Buffy motioned for her to come closer and she whispered the rest in her ear.

“William,” his mother scolded.

“I’m sorry,” he said, tears in his eyes. “Please, no…”

“Buffy, maybe you should go home.”

“No, I wanna watch.”
***

“Here’s more water.” Buffy handed him two full water bottles. William gulped them and then spit in the road. “Ew!” Buffy wiped her bare leg where he had splashed her.

“I’m never going to get this soapy taste out of my mouth.”

“You shouldn’t swear.”

“You shouldn’t tell. You’re such a tattle tale, Buffy.”

“Am not.” Buffy squirmed as he spit again. “You’re gross!”

“You wanna see something great?”

“Yeah.”

“Look,” William took a swallow of water into his mouth and he pushed it out of the hole where his two front teeth used to be. “See? I’m a fountain,” he said proudly.

“You’re stupid…do it again?”
***

Buffy got in her car and let her tears slide down her face freely. She looked in her rear view mirror and gasped, noticing her makeup was also making its way down her cheeks.

“I hate him.”
***

“What happened to you?”

“Do you like it?” Buffy puckered her lips and curtsied. “I feel like a lady,” she proclaimed. Sitting carefully, she struggled to cross her legs.

“You look like a clown.”

“Do not!”

“And your lips,” William wrinkled his nose, looking closer, “Are they bleeding?”

“No!” Buffy scrunched up her nose as he laughed at her. “You know what I can do now?”

“What?”

“This!” Buffy held his face between her hands, leaving a big red lip print on his cheek.

“No! You kissed me,” William screamed in horror and wiped his face frantically.

“Be quiet or I’ll do it again.”
***

William sighed and watched from a safe distance as she fixed her makeup and hair.

“Never figured out why she fussed over all that stuff…she’s beautiful all on her own.”

“So, you’re back?”

William turned, seeing Buffy’s younger sister. “I am, Dawnie.”

“Buffy hates you.”

“I know and I’m not very fond of her either at the moment.”

“When are you guys going to loosen up? How long has it been?”

“Looking at the pretty bruise on my leg, I’d say not long enough.”
***

Buffy drove home with the radio off. She pulled into the driveway of her childhood home that she now owned. Entering the house, Buffy dropped her keys on the tabletop and kicked off her shoes before heading upstairs to run a bath. Minutes later, she lowered herself into the hot water and laid back, her thoughts, like always, focusing on William.
***

“Buffy, did you sit in something?”

“I don’t know.” She struggled to look behind her and looked confused when her shorts had a red spot. “Ew.”

“Your mom is going to get mad, I bet those pants are ruined.” William smiled, knowing that Buffy was in big trouble.

“Well, you’re dumb.” Buffy climbed back on her bike, ignoring her dirty shorts. “Last person to my house has to buy me ice cream!”
***

“Mom! I think something’s wrong with me!” Buffy ran into the house with William on her heels.

“Mrs. Summers! Help!”

“What? What? Calm down.”

“Ms. Summers,” William panted, “Buffy’s bleeding or something.”

Buffy’s mom widened her eyes. “Where is the blood coming from?”

“I’m not telling with him here!”

“Me? What did I do?”

“William, go watch TV and wait for Buffy, she’ll see you in a little while.”

“Oh, ok. She won’t die, right?”

“No, dear, she’ll be fine.”
***

“That goes where?” Buffy swallowed. “Does everyone know about this? Is everyone okay with this?”

“It’s normal, Buffy. Do you want me to help you?”

“No way.” Her small hands clutched the pads and tampons. “I’ll do it by myself. Tell William to go away for me.”

“Are you sure? You could tell him, he was really worried about you…”

“Oh, I don’t care, just leave me alone!” Buffy slammed the door to the bathroom.
***

“I hate you.”

“What did I do now, Buffy?”

“Nothing and that’s the problem. You’re a boy and just because of that I hate you. Get out of my house!”

“You’re crazy!” William ran as Buffy chased him, punching him as they went.

“And don’t come back for five to eight days!”
***

“Where are you staying?”

“At the house.”

“Buffy bought mom’s house,” Dawn said. “She’ll see you.”

“Let her, it’s a free country.”

“And you’re going to work at the high school with her, that’s not good.”

“We’ll have to make it work,” William said, frowning. “How long has she worked there anyway?”

“Two years, mom got her the job. She’s good with the kids, they trust her.”

William nodded, “You need a ride, pet?”
***

“I waited nine days just to be safe.”

“Good.”

“So, you wanna swim?”

“No, I don’t want to wear a bathing suit around you.”

“Why not?”

“Because you’ll look at me, mom said so. I don’t want you to look at me when I’m nearly naked.”

“I wouldn’t!”

“Yes you would,” Buffy nodded, confidently. “Mom said other stuff too but I don’t want to tell you…you wouldn’t be able to handle it.”

“Like what? Give me a hint?”

“She told me…come here,” Buffy pulled him close and cupped her hands around his ear. “She told me about birds and bees.”

“She didn’t!”

“Shhh, she did and it’s so, so gross.”

“Tell me, I like gross things.”

“No, you like germs and mud and stuff. This…it’s so gross, William.”

“Tell me,” he pleaded.

“Ok, but it’s a secret. Promise you won’t tell anyone.”

“I swear, I won’t tell anybody.”

“Pinky swear.” They linked little fingers and Buffy moved closer. “You’re going to puke afterwards.”

“Just tell me.”

“Ok, well it involves a lot more than what we thought…what those pigeons were doing is nothing. People kiss until they lick each other’s tonsils--.”

“I got my tonsils taken out, Buffy.”

“Looks like you’re going to be left out then.” Buffy ignored William’s frown and she continued, “Then men and women, they like lock together and stuff.”

“What do you mean?”

“Mom said it’s like finding your key. I have a special spot that only the perfect key can open.”

“That doesn’t sound so bad, Buffy.”

“That’s what I thought until she told me that boys have their keys in their pants!”

“I always keep my house key in my pants’ pocket, I’m not a girl, I won’t use a purse--.”

“William! Not in your pants!”

“But you said…”

“I mean under, under your pants and underwear…it’s not a real key, maybe you’re too stupid to understand. Boys, a part of them, goes inside a girl.”

“Inside?”

“Yeah and it’s so gross and mom said it’s really messy but it’s ok if people are in love and married.”

“Messy? How?”

“I’m not saying anymore! I’ll have to draw you a picture or something! You go ask your mom or mine.”

“I don’t want to ask them, they’re girls, Buffy.”

“So? I’m a girl too.”

“No, you aren’t. You’re…you’re just Buffy.”
***

“Dawn, it’s about time.” Buffy came down the stairs in her robe, drying her hair with a towel. “Did you see William at Cordy’s party? What an asshole, he’ll never change.”

“Hey, pet.”

Buffy shrieked and closed her robe tightly. “What are you doing here? Get out!”

“I gave Dawn a ride, seems that her sister abandoned her.”

“William,” Dawn frowned. “It’s alright Buffy, I could’ve walked.”

“I’m sorry,” Buffy said weakly.

“It’s alright, I know that you were upset.”

“Yeah,” Buffy looked at William and blinked. “I was really upset.”

“Buffy…”

“No,” she turned and ignored him. “I’m going to change. I hope you’re gone when I come back down.”
***

“That was awkward.”

“No, actually that’s the best that we’ve acted since…a long time ago,” William said. “I should go and prepare for the hell that’ll be Monday.”

“Where’s you classroom gonna be?”

“Second floor.”

“Oh…”

“Her office is on that floor, isn’t it?”

“She moved to a bigger office this year,” Dawn said quietly. “Just avoid her.”

“I’ll do my best.”

“It was nice seeing you, William.”

“Likewise, bit.” He gave her a hug before walking across the street.
***

“He’s still so beautiful…” Buffy closed the blinds once William went into his house. “God, I miss him so much.”
***
 

Chapter 2

“I’m running away tomorrow.”

“Why?”

“My mom’s going on dates—she says that she isn’t but I know she is. She stinks, Buffy, and her hair—it’s huge!” William spread his hands so Buffy would understand. “It looks so weird and then she wears high heels. She can’t even walk in ‘em and she squishes my head and uses me to keep her up so she doesn’t fall on her face!”

Buffy nodded, understanding completely, “So, where’re you going?”

“Scotland. I’m going to live in a castle with a moat and a dragon.”

“You just wanna wear those dresses!”

William glared and spoke up over Buffy’s giggles. “No! No! Buffy are you coming with me or not?”

“I don’t know…I don’t like plaid, it’s so ugly.”

“You can still wear your nasty girlie clothes,” William said, playing with his shoelaces and trying not to plead.

“I don’t know…”

“Please, please, please!” William gave up and he crawled to her on his knees, hands together. “I’ll get lost if you don’t come with me!”

“Alright!”

“Oh, thank you, Buffy.”

“Hey!” She squirmed as he hugged her. “Hey! Stop it!”

“Buffy,” he whispered, chin resting on her shoulder and eyes squeezed tight. “I didn’t even tell you the worst part…she says that she’s finding me a new father. I don’t want one…I like my old one, my real one.”

“At least your dad didn’t leave on purpose,” Buffy said, sitting rigid as he clung to her.

“I miss him.”

“Don’t cry, stupid.” Buffy blinked and thought that her eyes felt funny. “I miss my dad too.”

“I thought you hated him?”

“I do! Now, stop touching me!” Buffy pushed him away. “When are we leaving tomorrow?”
***

“Buffy, I doubt he’ll care about what you’re wearing.”

Buffy shrieked, “Don’t sneak up on me like that!” She quickly pulled off her shirt and threw it on the top of the heap of clothes.

“You’re going to be late.”

“What’s your hurry? Shouldn’t you be gone by now anyway?” Buffy grabbed two more shirts and showed them to her sister. “Pink or white?”

“Pink. Buffy,” Dawn crossed her arms over her chest,” you don’t remember, do you?”

“What?”

“You’re taking me to school today. Art project? Big art project that I can’t carry?”

“Oh, yeah—are you sure about the pink?”

“You know he likes you in pink,” Dawn said, rolling her eyes. “I’m going to put my stuff in the car.”
***

Buffy didn’t have to look to know that William was there; she could hear his laughter fill the air.

“Dawn! If you still need a ride, come on!”

“Bye William.” Dawn smiled and waved. “See, Buffy, some people can be late and still be in a good mood.”

Buffy said nothing; instead she got into her car and slammed the door. She drove her sister towards the high school in silence. Glancing into the rear view mirror, Buffy saw that William was following on their heels.

He always looked gorgeous in a suit, she thought, chewing on her lip.

“Buffy!”

“Huh?” Buffy was pulled out of her daze at Dawn’s scream and the crash that followed soon after.
***

“You hit my car!”

“Are you alright, Buffy? Dawnie?” William gave Dawn a quick hug before touching Buffy’s elbow. “What happened, love?”

She started blankly at his hand, unable to answer his question.

“She was totally zoning out and almost hit a dog,” Dawn explained.

“A dog?”

“Yeah, Buffy, what was wrong with you?”

“Hey now,” William frowned, not liking that Dawn was screaming at Buffy.

“It’s…it’s ok,” Buffy said softly, still shaken by the accident. “I wasn’t paying attention.” Moving away from William, she glanced at the front of her car. “Please tell me that I didn’t hit it…”

“I don’t think you did…” Dawn glanced along the sides of the road and spotted the dog. “See, there he is.”

“Good.”

“Should we call the cops and get a report written up,” William asked. He looked at their smashed vehicles and winced. “I left my phone…”

“I’ll call.” Buffy sat on the curb and started to dig through her purse. “I’ll call the school too.”

“Here I thought I’d only be a few minutes late.” With a soft laugh, he sat between Buffy and Dawn, making an effort to be closer to the younger Summers woman. “Gotta love the first day…”

As Buffy made calls, she watched as William whispered to her sister, saying things that made her giggle and blush.

I will not be jealous, Buffy told herself, looking away. I will not.
***

“Running away is boring,” Buffy announced, rolling onto her stomach.

“What do you wanna do?” William closed his eyes and allowed the sun to shine in his face.

“Why do I always have to think of everything? You think of something.”

“Ok, I will.” He tapped his chin and hummed, deep in thought. “It’s too bad we can’t swim ever again.”

“That’s all you want to do all the time.”

“Do not!”

“Well, we can’t.”

“Sometimes I wish you were a boy then we could swim and I wouldn’t get picked on…”

“I’d hate to be a boy! I hate those guys who are mean to you—someday I’m going to beat ‘em all up!”

“Yeah and I’ll help!”

“What would you do to help? Buffy giggled, sitting up and pinching William’s arm.”

“Ow!”

“You can’t do anything, William.”

“Can too! I’d…I’d spit in their eyes!”

“Oh, well, I guess that’d be ok, you’re good at that kinda stuff.”

“I am,” William said, smiling proudly.

“So have you figured out what we’re gonna do yet?”

“No…you know, Buffy, when I swim, I always close my eyes? I heard that if you don’t, water can get underneath them and they can float away, right out of your head.”

“Really,” she asked, interested.

“Yeah, I never ever open my eyes—eyes are important, you know?”

“Ok, ok, let’s run away to my house and the last one there can fill up the pool!”
***

“I’m so not going to class today,” Dawn said, bouncing.

“Don’t look so happy, bit. So,” he paused, catching Buffy’s glance, “since our cars were towed away and all that…lunch? On me?”

“No.”

“Oh. Right,” William nodded, looking disappointed. “I guess we’ll just start walking or maybe you could have a head start and I’ll follow…”

“William, it’s my fault, I’ll pay.”

“Really?”

“Yeah,” Buffy swallowed, avoiding his hopeful grin. “But just because I feel bad.”
***

“William,” Buffy ran into his backyard, “William, I’ve been thinking, let’s start our own business…who are you?”

“Who are you?”

“William,” Buffy looked at him, “who’s that?”

“He’s new. His name’s Angel.”

“Hi.”

Buffy frowned at the dark haired boy, “Angel, what kind of girlie name is that? William, ditch him and let’s go to my house.” She grabbed him and tried to steal him away. “William, come on!”

“I’m…I’m busy, Buffy.”

“You’re busy? When will you not be busy?”

“My mom’s picking me up at five,” Angel said.

“What am I supposed to do until then?”

“Well…I guess you could stay with us,” William said, wrinkling his nose.

“No!” Buffy clenched her fists, her eyes wandering from her friend to her replacement. “You can be alone with your boyfriend and see if I care!”

“He’s not my boyfriend!”

“Yes he is! I hate you!” Buffy kicked William in leg before running away in tears.
***

“I’m not having a birthday party! I don’t want to invite anyone!”

“Buffy,” Joyce sat on the couch and stared Buffy in the eye. “You should have a birthday party, you only turn twelve once.”

“I don’t care,” Buffy said, pouting.

“Why not? You’ve been planning since the beginning of the month…we bought all the plates, napkins…Buffy, would this have anything to do with William?”

“No.”

“His mom said he was making new friends, are you feeling left out, Buffy?”

“No.”

“If you have a party, you can invite your whole class and maybe you could make twice as many friends as William.”

Buffy tried not to smile at the thought; she loved having more than William. “I’m not inviting him or his boyfriend and you can’t make me.”

“Buffy…you’ve been friends with William for so long, he’s your best friend--.”

“He is not! He’s my worst friend! I don’t want a party!”

“Ok, but keep in mind that if you don’t have a party you won’t get any presents.”

“No presents?”

“Nope.”

“Fine! I’ll have the dumb party!”
***

“Maybe I should start walking home and give you guys sometime to be alone,” Dawn teased.

“Over my dead body,” Buffy said. She hesitated before sitting at the table, she didn’t want to sit next to William and she didn’t want to be tempted to stare at him during their meal.

“Just sit, Buffy.”

She glared, “Like you know what I was thinking.”

William smirked, staying silent as she settled across from him.

“Since I’m buying, don’t get the most expensive thing on the menu, Dawn.”

Dawn stuck out her tongue. “I’m not the one to watch, he’s the one that eats and eats.”

“That’s right.” Chuckling mischievously, he put up the menu and whispered to Dawn behind it.

“You’re going to drive me insane. Stop it,” Buffy demanded. She nearly growled as they continued to laugh, not including her. “I mean it, stop it now.”

“You’re no fun, Buffy.”

“No. I’m not.” She glared and considered kicking him under the table.
***

“Happy Birthday, Buffy.”

“Leave me alone.”

Sighing, William sat next to her. “I got you a gift and I even paid for it with my own money.”

“What is it?”

“I’m not telling, you’ll have to open it.” He put the present on her lap. “I wrapped it too.”

“William…are you really my best friend…were you before you abandoned me?”

“Buffy…”

“I knew it! Go away and take your dumb present with you!” Buffy tossed the gift at him and ran into her room.

William sighed, seeing that all the partygoers had their eyes on him. Feeling embarrassed, he grinned and slowly made his way up the stairs.

“You’re my best friend,” he said, resting his forehead against her closed door. “I mean it, Buffy.”

“Then why won’t you stop by anymore? Every time I go to your house, you’re gone or with another stupid boy!”

“I said you could play with us.”

“You were just being nice to me…you just felt bad or something.”

“No, no…don’t laugh or call me names but…I’ve missed you. Buffy, honest, I swear. It’s just—it’s—I haven’t been picked on at all lately and I like it.”

“You’d choose to never ever see me again just so you don’t get called a name—well, you’re the mean one!”

“No…”

“Yes!” Buffy opened the door suddenly and William jumped. “Who’s supposed to be my friend when you’re busy? You didn’t care at all that I was left all by myself.”

“I did…I just…”

“Go away,” Buffy said; all her anger had dissolved and she fought back tears. “Just leave me alone, William.”

“Buffy, I’m sorry.”

“Just go.” Buffy went back to her bed and stuffed her head in the pillows.
***

“Well, I had fun unlike some people.” Dawn gave her sister a dirty look. “Now what?”

“We start walking, pet.”

Buffy frowned, “Why don’t you guys go, I have a friend that’ll give me a ride back.”

“A friend?”

“Yes, a friend,” Buffy said.

“Who?”

“And how is that any of your business? Can you make sure that Dawn gets home ok?”

“Sure, I’ll be her babysitter.”

“Hey,” Dawn said in protest. “I can walk home by myself and I usually do.”

“Dawn.” William gave her a strange look and then she quieted.

I’m going to have to figure out how to make that look, Buffy thought, impressed by how quickly her stubborn sister stopped whining.

“I’ll get her home all safe and sound, love.”

“Good.”
***

“Buffy, get up.”

“What…” She rubbed the sleep out of her eyes. “What’s going on?”

“We’re going to the hospital, don’t change, we need to go now.”

“Why?” Buffy shot up, noticing her mom’s eyes were red, “Is Dawn ok?”

“Your sister’s fine, it’s William, his mother just passed away.”

“What happened?”

“When was the last time you saw him at school, Buffy?”

“Ah, I never do, I haven’t even talked to him since my birthday party a few years ago.”

“Well, his mom got sick and he needs us. He needs you Buffy.”
***

Buffy felt strange walking beside her mother in the hospital. It was very early in the morning and she was still dressed in her brightly colored pajamas. Before entering the room, Buffy could see him sitting next to the empty bed and staring at his toes.

“Mom, I don’t want to go in there,” she whispered. “Please, don’t make me.”

“Ok, honey, stay and I’ll get him to come out.”

As her mom walked into the room, Buffy hid and she slowly crept back to the window. She watched as they hugged and Buffy was shocked to see that William hadn’t been crying. He was such a crybaby before, she thought.

“Crap!” Buffy hid again when William’s eyes met hers. “Caught!” A few minutes later when her heartbeat was steady again, she peeked and William was still looking in her direction, as if waiting for her. Biting her lip, Buffy waved.
***
 

Chapter 3

“Mom wanted me to see if you needed anything.” Buffy rested against the doorway. “Are you alright?”

“I’m fine.” With a sigh, William sat on the edge if the bed, his back towards her. “Your mom’s being very kind to me. I always knew she was a nice lady but...”

“I’m sorry about your mom...I had no idea and I feel so crappy about that.”

“We weren’t talking, no matter how much I wanted to, I couldn’t tap you on the shoulder and bawl about my mother.”

“You could’ve.” Buffy sat next to him and made no attempt to look him in the eye.

“Sometimes I’d see you in the cafeteria or somewhere else at school and I’d be so mad at myself, that I just let us stop being friends. I know my mom missed you...I did too...I do.”

Buffy swallowed, not sure what to say. Everyday it seemed normal for her to avoid William at school and she made a point to never go outside when he was in his yard. She’d forced herself to make new friends after her birthday party. She’d invited herself to other parties and latched on to a new group friends.

“Seems that we’ll have to get along again, yeah? Who knows how long I’ll be here...I don’t know where I’m going to be shipped off to...I can’t believe I’m a bloody orphan, Buffy.”

“Oh,” Buffy gasped, not realizing that he was now classified by such a term. “William...” She let out a little whine when his sad eyes searched her face. Before she realized it, she took him in her arms and hugged him tightly.

William sighed in relief and then he broke into sobs. Not knowing what to do, Buffy rubbed his back like she had seen her mom do earlier at the hospital. “It’ll be ok, I promise.”
***

“What are you doing?”

“Hush.”

“William,” Dawn scolded. “Buffy’s so gonna kick your ass.”

“No, she won’t because she’ll never know that we’re spying on her.”

“We? There’s no ‘we’ in this.”

“Play nice, bit, or I’ll tell her that you swore.”

“Come on, what are you, five years old? I can swear if I want to, Buffy’s not the boss of me.”

“Sure she isn’t,” William rolled his eyes. “Who’s her friend...a boyfriend?”

Dawn was amused by the pained looked on his face, “You really think she could move on after you? You nearly killed my sister, William.”

“Let’s not be too dramatic, Dawn,” William said, even though he knew she was telling the truth.

“Even if I was kept in the dark about you guys, I know Buffy’s not perfect and I’m sure she did something to hurt you too. Buffy has a tendency to do that. Sometimes I think she enjoys hurting people.”

“That’s not true, Dawn and you know it.”

She blinked, not used to him being stern. “Ok, sorry.”

“This is stupid.” William stopped on the sidewalk and allowed Buffy to walk out of his sight. “I’m not a bloody stalker, let’s go back, pet.”

“Glad you came to your senses, I was worried for a minute.”

“Shut up, princess.”
***

“He’s back, Mom. I know, I know, you told me he’d be back. Stupid William can never stay away can he?” Chuckling softly, Buffy sat in front of the gravestone on the cold white bench. “And he’s hotter than ever too. Damn, you should see him, Mom. He always could make anything look so good—jeans, a t-shirt, you name it...I saw him in a suit today and just sight of him made me get in car accident.” Buffy laughed again, looking up through the leaves of the tree that sheltered her mother’s grave. “Don’t worry everyone’s ok and our cars should be fixed by the end of the week. He’s a teacher now and we’ll be working together and you know, that just asking for trouble. When me and William get together,” Buffy took a deep breath, shivers shaking her body, “who knows what could happen next...”
***

“Dinner!”

“We should...eat.”

“Right.” Sniffling, William pulled away from her. “Oh, look, I got your shirt all wet, pet.”

“What...” Buffy batted his hands away as he tried to dry her chest. “Hey, stop. William, hands!”

“Sorry, sorry...”

“What did you call me,” Buffy asked, pulling up the neckline of her shirt.

“Um, nothing.”

“Pet?”

“Just a-a nickname—term of endearment...” William stood and looked uneasy. “We should go downstairs, yeah?”

“I guess,” Buffy said, confused by the way he was acting.

“Let’s go, Buffy.” He pleaded, taking her hand leading her out of the bedroom.
***

Buffy knew there was something different about him. Even though she avoided him, she wasn’t blind or deaf. He was taller, taller than her now and his voice was deeper. Buffy would struggle not to laugh each time his voice cracked.

I love puberty, she decided as he’d blush and pretend that the cracking was his choice, that he wanted his voice to change mid-sentence.

“I’m letting you both stay out of school until next Monday,” Joyce announced at the dinner table, spreading her napkin carefully over her lap. “While I help with the funeral arrangements and with contacting the family, it’ll be your jobs to move William into the guest bedroom. Bring over whatever you want, William. I want you to be comfortable.”

William nodded.
***

“What’s all this stuff?”

“Stuff.”

Buffy rolled her eyes and she peeked into the box. “You have a lot of crap, William.”

“Wait until we have to move all my books,” he said with a smile.

“I don’t want to, I’m too young to throw my back out.” Buffy sat suddenly, tucking her hair behind her eyes. “Break.”

“You just had a break,” William whined but he sat next to her on the carpet. “I hate being in here now.”

“You hate your room?”

“Yeah, memories...”

“Do you think your guardian will move you somewhere else? It’d be really strange if I didn’t see your stupid face every time I looked out my window.”

“I knew you were spying on me, I’d be certain that you were watching.”

“You’re lying. You are lying right?” Buffy panicked silently. “Sometimes I’d just glance out my window but there was no way that I was looking at you...”

“Sure,” he teased. “Well, I guess I need a guardian first and then I’ll anticipate how they’ll ruin my life.”

“My mom won’t let them do too much damage, she likes you for some reason.”

“And you don’t?”

Buffy frowned, “Is that some kinda trick question?”

“Forget it.” He looked away, a hint of hurt in his eyes.

“You’ve gotten weirder with age, you know that, right?”

“I guess so.”

“Where are you going?”

William stood and he continued to put his belongings in a box. “My break’s over, you can continue to sit if you’d like.”

Grumbling, Buffy stood and she started to work.
***

“Dawn!”

“Up here!”

Careful not to say something stupid, Buffy looked across the street and tried to guess if William was tucked safely in his house. “Um, Dawn--.”

“I’m still here.”

“Holy crap,” Buffy gasped, holding her chest. “Were you hiding or something?”

“Nope.” William came out from the kitchen. “I was getting us water. The pizza will be delivered in, oh,” he looked at his wristwatch, “fifteen minutes. If you get to the door before me, the cash is on the counter.”

“Where are you going?”

“Back up stairs. Dawn and I are in the middle of a nasty game of Battle Ship.”

“Are you cheating while playing a game with my little sister?”

“Me,” William asked, a smile on his face. “Who can cheat at Battle Ship, love?”

“You can. I taught you how.” Buffy followed him up the stairs but they parted and went in opposite directions.

“You wanna play the winner?”

“No.”

“Alright, I’ll knock when the food arrives.”

“Ok.” Buffy went into her room and closed the door.
***

“I think your dolls should go on that shelf and then put the books over there.”

“Don’t get me started again, Buffy.” William crossed him arms and glared. “I don’t own any bloody dolls.”

“You say action figures, I say girlie dollies.” She stuck out her tongue and started to move his things to her liking. “So...for tomorrow...you wanna go shopping for some new clothes later today?”

“I’m not going to the funeral.”

“What?” She looked at him, her mouth open. “That’s not something to joke about.”

“I’m not joking. I’m not going.”

Buffy could tell by his soft, calm voice that he was being very serious. “Ok...what are you going to do instead?”

“I haven’t decided yet. I want to do something my mom would’ve liked, you know—I bet it’s a dumb idea but...”

“It’s not a dumb idea, William.”

“You really think so?”

“Yeah.”

“You wanna come with me?”

Buffy took a deep breath, her heart speeding up for reasons she couldn’t figure out. She guessed later it had something to do with the way that William was looking at her. “I want to.”
***

Buffy felt ridiculous but it didn’t stop her from pressing her ear to the wall. She grinned, listening as William mangled his voice to sound like a pirate. He could never play that game without making those funny voices, she remembered. God, he’s such a dweeb. Biting her lip, Buffy continued to listen until the doorbell rang.
***

“You know, I think I’m going to take my pizza to my room.”

“Is that right, kitten?”

“Yup,” Dawn said with a grin. “I have stuff to do.”

“Stuff, huh?” Buffy glared as her sister nodded, unfazed.

“Bye, William.”

“Bye.” After Dawn was out of sight, William said, “She thinks she’s playing cupid.”

“Does she,” asked Buffy, rolling her eyes. “She’s a pest and she always has been.”

“True.” William wiped his face and chewed his pizza slowly. “Should I leave?”

“If you want to.”

“I don’t want to.”

“Then don’t.” Buffy picked at her food, taking off the topping of the pizza one piece at a time. “I figure if we can handle today, we can handle a few hours at work together everyday.”

“You’re right.”

“But just don’t think that you and come in and out of my house whenever you please. Today was fine but tomorrow...things could be different tomorrow.”

“You were always a moody one.”

“Hey,” she complained.

“It’s true and you know it.”

“Shut up,” she said, causing William to smirk. “Just eat your pizza so I can kick you out.”

“You said I could stay.”

“I’m moody, remember?” William looked delighted as Buffy stuck out her tongue. Oh no, Buffy thought.
***

“She liked this spot.”

“Why?”

“Look.” William pointed at the tree. “They carved their initials in it. After my mom would have a few drinks she’d tell me all about her and my father. They’d skinny dip over there.” He pointed again, pretending that he face wasn’t turning red. “Then they’d lay on a blanket here and gaze up at the stars. She said it was very romantic.”

“Sounds like it.”

“Uh, you wanna sit?”

“In a minute,” Buffy said, running her fingers over the carved bark of the tree. “I wish my mom would tell me about my dad. She never tells me good stories about him, only bad ones.”

“My mom was married before she met my dad. It was a brief marriage. My mom wasn’t always from California, you know? She’s from the South but the guy she married brought her to LA. He’d leave her and work for months straight. She met a friend while doing the laundry and then for some reason, that friend gave my mom my dad’s address. They were pen pals.”

“Really?” Buffy smiled, “How long did they write?”

“Two months and then the other guy left and divorced my mom. My parents only knew each other for four months when they married, they had only seen each other twice.”

“What else do you know?” Buffy sat crossed legged on the grass, facing the lake. “Tell me everything you know, William.” Lately Buffy found that she had a healthy appetite for anything that involved love and romance. She watched countless movies and read countless books. William story fascinated her more because the characters were real people.

William joined her on the grass and stared ahead. “I’m don’t know anymore, Buffy. I’m sorry.”

“It’s ok.”

“This reminds me of the time we ran away.”

“I was thinking the same thing.”

“Buffy, will you talk to me at school on Monday?”

“What do you mean,” Buffy asked, knowing that they didn’t have any classes together.

“Maybe…at lunch?”

“What will the boys do without you?”

“They’ll manage, what about Red and that loud girl, would they survive without you? If you agree to eat with me that is…”

“You know Willow?”

“She also in a book club that I went to last year. Don’t laugh, Buffy. It wasn’t so bad…”

“You’re such a nerd,” she said, smiling. “Willow never told me you went to that.”

“Because I begged her not to, I knew you’d make fun of me….”

“Oh, stop it.” Buffy playfully hit his arm. “Like I made fun of you all the time.”

“You did!”

Buffy laughed out loud as his voice cracked. “I love when that happens. It’s so cute.” William’s head tilted to the side and his eyes were wide. “Stop looking at me like that. I’ll take it back if you don’t—you’re not that cute…mildly cute.”

“Any form of it is fine with me.”

“Stop,” Buffy elbowed him in the side until he stopped looking at her with stars in his eyes. “Stop it now, William or I’m going back, alright?”

"Sorry," he said, clearing his throat. "I was just kinda shocked, that's all."

"Well, stop it, William."

"Ok, ok. So, Monday?"

"Monday."
***

“So, about tomorrow?”

“What about it?”

“Would you mind if I tagged along when you guys take off in the morning?”

“I guess not but don’t be late.”

“And who’s always the late one?”

“Shut up, William.”

“I’ll be ‘round early and I’ll bring breakfast?”

“If you want to...”

“Alrighty. I’ll see in the morning, Buffy. Sweet dreams, love.”

“Yeah, yeah, good night, William.”
***
 

Chapter 4

“We are totally going to have a study-fest tomorrow. I’m so scared of that test.”

“Buffy?”

“Hey,” Buffy smiled when William appeared beside her.

“I thought we could sit outside if that’s alright with you.”

“Sure. Will, call me, ok?” Buffy frowned when her friend didn’t respond. Willow was too busy staring at William.

“Hi,” she squeaked. “How are you liking our new novel in class?”

“I think it’s fantastic,” William answered. “The writing is stunning.”

“What book is it?” Buffy wrinkled her nose when Willow rattled off the unfamiliar title. “Sounds great.”

William chuckled, “I’ll make you borrow it, pet.”

Buffy took a deep breath, still not used to his new nickname for her. “I’m not a reader girl.”

“You just have to find the right books and I swear that you’ll be hooked.” William flashed her a smile. “Maybe I could take you to the bookstore sometime--.”

“Uh, I guess I should be on my way,” Willow interrupted, a blush coloring her cheeks. “I have to find Anya!”

“Okay,” Buffy laughed, wondering why Willow was acting so strange.

“If you don’t find her, Red, you’re more than welcome to join Buffy and me.”

“No, thanks!” Willow hugged her books to her chest and practically ran away.

“Does she always act like that around you?”

“I haven’t noticed,” he said, following Buffy outside of the building. “Maybe someone slipped her some caffeine. She can’t handle that rot.”

“Mmmm...I wonder if she likes you. Do you like her?”

William brushed off the seat before Buffy could sit. “She’s alright. She’s a nice girl to talk to.” He sat next to Buffy and started to eat his sandwich.

“I’m guessing you’re in her English class?”

“Yup, that’s right.”

Buffy nodded, “You know, I was thinking she has a crush on a boy in that class. I was thinking it was you but then she told me that the guy writes poetry and stuff. You don’t write, do ya, William?”

“No, no,” William shook his head. “Girls...ah, only girls write poems. I hate the class, I only like reading...” He laughed nervously and scratched his eyebrow with his little finger. “So, did she say she liked the guy’s stuff?”

“Of course, she does, she loves the guy.”

“Oh, but you don’t know who he is?”

“Nope and it’s stupid. I tell her all my secrets.”

William gave her a sideways glance, “Who do you like, Buffy?”

“I’m not telling you! You’re a boy—you’ll tell!”

“Buffy, you just told me everything you know about Willow’s crush--.”

“Oh, crap!” Buffy’s eyes widened, realizing that he was right. “Please, please don’t tell anyone! Willow will kill me!” She gave him her dessert, knowing it was his favorite. “There are two cupcakes, take them both.”

“If you insist,” William chuckled happily.

“Just don’t tell!”

“Mmmm,” he closed his eyes and ate the first cupcake, “I won’t tell, Buffy.”

“Thank you...”

“Unless you tell me who you like.”

“Blackmailer! Give me my cupcake back!” She reached for him and William pushed her away.

“You suck!”

“What kinda talk is that?” he teased. “Just tell me his name.”

Buffy bit her lip and giggled at him.

“What?” he asked, his mouth full.

“You’re so messy.”

“Am not.” William licked his fingers.

“Are too.” Sighing, Buffy took a napkin and wiped his face.

“Buffy,” he croaked as she gently held his chin.

“What? Did I do something wrong?”

“No.”

“Then stop talking funny. I like Riley, ok? I think he’s cute.” Buffy put her hands in her lap. “But I think he hates me—all boys hate me.”

“I don’t,” William said softly. “You really like Finn? He’s so...”

“Great?” Buffy suggested.

“I was going to say retarded and butt-ugly,” he grumbled.

“You won’t tell about Willow now, right?”

“No.”

“You won’t tell about my crush?”

“If I say that bugger’s name, I’ll puke, Buffy.”

“William.” Buffy burst out laughing not used to his weird choice of words. “You’re so stupid.”

“At least I don’t have the hots for a jerk.”

“So who do you like?”

“I’m not telling you.”

“I told you.”

“Because you had to.”

“Is it Willow?”

“No.”

“Oh, she’s going to be upset.”

“So don’t tell her, Buffy.”

“Tell me,” she pouted. “Please, William?”

“No, Buffy.” He grinned when the bell rang, ending lunch. “I have to go.”

“Oh, you’re not getting away so easy William!” Buffy giggled as he ran. “I’ll see you at home!”
***

“Dawn left over an hour ago.” Buffy turned and locked the door. “She never leaves that early. How much did you pay her?”

“Would I do such a thing?”

Buffy gave him a look. “Yes.”

William chuckled, purposely changing the subject. “Coffee for you, love, and a bagel.”

“Thank you,” she said. “So, are you nervous about finally starting your new job?”

“Terrified.”

“Always the worry wart...you’ll be fine, William.”

“Buffy...”

“Ok, less talking, more walking.”
***

“It’s Willow, I’ll get it!” Buffy ran to get the ringing telephone. “I’ll be in my room!”

William rolled his eyes, “She’s loves that phone, huh?”

“Her life revolves around it,” Joyce agreed with a laugh. “How was school?”

“Alright, nothing new really.”

“How are you and Buffy getting along?”

“Great so far.” William played with his food. “I missed her, Mrs. Summers.”

Joyce smiled, “Oh, William, I know she missed you too...even if she’s too stubborn to admit it.”

“You really think so?”

“I know so.”

“Can I be excused, Mrs. Summers?”

“Sure, just rinse off your plate.”
***

Buffy lay on her bed and threaded the phone cord between her fingers. “Are you going to Harmony’s party?”

“Probably not.”

“Why?”

“I don’t have a date.”

“Willow, you don’t need one, come with me. Anya will be there too.”

“Anya’s bringing that new boy she met -- Xander -- or something like that. I just don’t want to be left by myself.”

“I won’t leave you.”

“You’ll probably go with William.”

“What makes you think that? I’m not even sure if he goes to those kinda things.”

“He’d go if you asked him.” There was a silence and then Willow added, “I’ve seen the way he looks at you. I think everyone has except you, Buffy. When you guys weren’t talking he’d ask me questions about you.”

“You’re kidding!”

“Nope, he always wanted do know how you were doing and stuff like that.”

“Really...” Buffy stared off, not believing that he cared so much. “Will, is William your crush?”

“No,” she said weakly on the other line.

“You’re lying.”

“It doesn’t matter. Buffy, I think he loves you or something.”

“William?”

“Yeah.”

“Will, can I ask you something?”

“Sure.”

“Does he really write poetry?”
***

“If you want, I can beat Dawn until she gives your money back. I don’t think you got your money’s worth.”

“I think differently, love.” William held open the door for Buffy to enter the high school, and they walked around the kids standing around in the hallway.

“We were almost silent the whole way and you ended up losing more money by buying my breakfast. Thanks again for that by the way.”

“No problem. It was nice just to be near you,” he said, pretending to be causal. “Like old times.”

“Old times,” Buffy repeated with a soft laugh. “You must remember them differently too.”

“I could, who knows really?”

“I don’t remember them being so...boring.”

William smiled, stopping in front of the door to his classroom. “No, no, we were never boring. Now that you mention it, maybe I’m wrong. Our walk was like old times but without the good stuff: the screaming, crying, talking, kissing--.”

“Whoa, that’s enough walking down memory lane for now, William.”

“For now?”

“Have a good day at work.”

“You too, Buffy.”
***

“William?” Buffy whispered, scooting closer to him on the couch. They were all watching a movie together and her mom and little sister were fast asleep.

“Yeah?”

“Have you heard about Harmony Kendall’s birthday party this weekend?”

“My friends are going.”

“Oh...are you going with them?”

“I wasn’t planning on it, they’re all bringing girls.”

“Oh,” Buffy nodded. “So, uh, you wanna go with me?”

William’s jaw hung open. “Like...like on a date, Buffy?”

“No, no, of course not!” Buffy spoke quieter when her mom shifted in her sleep. “Mom said I can’t date until I’m sixteen.”

“I turn sixteen before you do...” William counted the months on his fingers. “In ten months or around there...I could have messed up. I always seem to forget September...”

“Yeah, so what?”

“Nothing,” he said, acting as if he were caught.

“Are you going with me or not?”

“I’d like to, very much, Buffy.”
***

“Have you kicked him anymore?”

”Who?”

“You know who.” Cordelia sat and faced Buffy’s desk. “How’d the car accident go?”

“Just peachy.” Buffy took off her reading classes and put down the lid to her laptop. “You need something or are you just bored?”

“I thought you’d like to know the latest gossip, if I’m wrong...”

“Sit. Gossip already?”

“Hey things travel around the school fast.”

“Ok, let me have it.”

“It’s all centered around your friend, William so maybe you don’t even want to hear it...”

“Cordy.”

“Alright,” she sat forward and lowered her voice. “Some think you guys are still together. I didn’t know you guys dated. Anyway, some think he’s gay.”

Buffy interrupted to laugh. “Sorry, go on.”

“You name it, some have him married, seeing students--.”

“All the rumors are based around if he’s taken or not.”

“Of course, Buffy. Students, teachers, other staff—William’s hot.”

“Like I didn’t know that,” Buffy mumbled, rubbing her eyes. “Why are you telling me this?”

“Because if you want to claim your territory, I’d do it now and quick.”

“We’re not together.”

“Okay,” Cordelia stood and walked towards the door. “I’m just saying if he is your ex and there are still feelings...I’d know it’d piss me off if the entire school was throwing themselves at my man.”
***

“Please, for the love of God, let me sit with you.”

A smile tugged on her lips, “You know we could leave campus, right?”

“Even better.” William followed Buffy out of the teacher’s lounge. “The women are fucking crazy here.”

“Well, have you seen the other male teachers? You’re a breath of fresh air.”

“Yeah and they all want to get in my pants.”

Buffy laughed at his serious tone. “Would that really be a problem for you?”

“Oh, shut up. Where are we heading? I’m starving, love.”

“There’s a fast food place around the corner.”

“Did you have as much trouble when you started?”

“Did I have to beat off all the guys with a stick? Not really.”

“Why not?”

“Just what are you saying, William?” Buffy laughed again when he shrugged and said that he wasn’t sure. “William, there are only four other male teachers, and they are all over sixty. I’m sure that at least three of them are considered legally blind. And as for the students...yeah, I guess there was some problems but only for the first year.”

“A year? Kill me now.”

“It’s even worse if you’re single. You dating someone?”

William smirked, “That was a very creative way to weasel in that question, sweetheart. You had it all set up...”

“Like I really care,” Buffy said defensively. “It’s just a question.”

“You don’t have to sulk, Buffy. I’m not dating anyone and I haven’t.”

“Do you really want me to believe that?”

“Sure I tried to see other people but it never worked out. I have this funny little tendency to compare everyone to you—everyone falls short, you know?”

Buffy almost nodded in agreement, knowing exactly what he meant but she stopped herself.

“I guess your silence is my cue to shut my gob as well, eh?” William opened the door for Buffy and followed her inside the fast food restaurant.
***
 

Chapter 5

“Buffy?” Joyce struggled to hold their shopping bags and the sacks of fast food. “Please tell William we’re home and that dinner is on the table.”

“William! Food!”

“That’s enough yelling, young lady. Go upstairs and tell William. Now.”

Rolling her eyes, Buffy headed to his room with her drink in hand. “William,” she said, knocking on the door. “We’re home.” When he didn’t respond, Buffy opened the door, instantly dropping her drink. The soda bubbled on the floor and soaked through her shoes. “Oh my God,” she whispered.

“Buffy!”

“Oh my God!”

“Get out!” William pulled up his pants and ran to the door. “Get out!”

Buffy blinked as he slammed the door in her face.
***

“Mom, can you wash my sneakers?”

“Why?” Joyce didn’t look up from picking up after Dawn. “Is William going to join us?”

“I dropped my drink.” In her bare feet, Buffy put her damp socks and soaked shoes in the kitchen sink. “Do you think they’ll get sticky?”

“Buffy, those are your favorite shoes! Did you dunk them in your cup?”

“Do you really think they’re ruined?” Buffy pouted, “My cup just slipped...”

“Buffy--.”

“Just leave me alone! I don’t want to talk about it!”

“Okay.” Joyce sighed as Buffy ran away.
***

“I haven’t seen you so much these days.”

“I have a lot of homework,” William grumbled. He moved around the kitchen quickly, trying to gather his breakfast before Buffy could see him.

“Are you excited about the party tomorrow night?”

“Well...I’m not sure that I’m still going.”

“Why not?” Joyce frowned. “You don’t want to go? Buffy will be very disappointed.”

“I don’t want to upset her...” William looked away and mumbled, “Mrs. Summers, I was wondering if I could borrow some money. I’ll pay you back—I’ll do chores and everything.”

“What do you want to buy?”

“Uh...”

“Okay, how much will it cost?”

“I’m not sure yet. I need to go to the shoe store first and check the prices.”
***

Buffy stopped, surprised to see William out of his room.

“I’ll be gone in two seconds.”

“Wait. Are we really not going to Harmony’s party now?”

William kept his back turned, afraid to look Buffy in the eye. “I know you don’t want to be near me. I’m sorry, Buffy.”

“I have a new dress. Mom’s going to help me with my make up and hair...”

“Maybe you should call Riley then?” he said softly.

“If I wanted to go with Riley, I would’ve asked him.”

“Are...are you saying that you still want to go with me?”

“What do you think?”

“But about last night...”

“Just promise me that I won’t see that ever again.”

William turned, painful embarrassment twisting his features. “Never. I swear.”

“Good, because I’m traumatized, William.” Buffy laughed, wanting to make him feel better. “In the future, when you want to touch yourself, just lock the door like normal people.”

William’s mouth gaped open and he just nodded.

“And if you chicken out on me and don’t take me to the party...oh, I’d hate to be you, William.” Smirking, Buffy walked away.
***

“This is just like sodding television.”

“What?”

“Nothing, just talking to myself.” William smiled at Joyce who was clutching her camera. They were both waiting at the foot of the stairs for Buffy.

“Maybe she got lost?”

“Oh hush, patience, dear.”

“I’m coming down! Get your camera ready, mom!”

William rolled his eyes. “You’d think this was prom or something instead of some blasted birthday party.”

“Language, William.” Buffy took careful steps around the corner and took each of the stairs while staring at her feet. “How do I look?”

“Ah...nice.” William cleared his throat, his eyes sweeping from her curled hair to her high-heeled shoes. “Very, eh, nice.”

“Cheese, kids!”

“Cheese? Oh yeah, camera...” Swallowing, William inhaled Buffy’s perfume. “You smell nice.”

“Thank you,” Buffy said, laughing sweetly. “You look nice too.”

“Move closer! Closer!” Joyce shook her hands at them.

“Yes, Mrs. Summers.” He gave Buffy a weary look.

“You can put your hand on my waist I guess.” Buffy leaned into his side and grinned, hearing his irregular breathing
***

“I feel pretty,” Buffy whispered as William awkwardly held her during the slow song. One hand was on her shoulder and the other was on her hip.

“You look pretty.”

“Thank you.” Buffy shuffled her feet, taking a baby step towards him. “I’m so afraid that I’m going to stomp on your shoes.”

“I don’t think I’d notice.”

She laughed. “Mom did my make up. It’s an improvement, huh?” When he remained silent, she continued. “It’s not so bright, I guess. When mom was done, you should’ve seen her. She started crying and saying that I was growing up too fast.”

“You do look older.”

“Really?” Buffy beamed, deciding that he had given her the best compliment.

“Oh, yeah, you look like you should already be in high school, pet.”

Buffy sighed dreamily, “I can’t wait for high school. It’ll be so much fun, don’t you think so?”

“I guess.”

“Ok, everybody stop dancing!”

“What’s going on?” William asked, once Harmony turned off the stereo.

“I don’t know.”

“Okay people, my parents went to get more ice so we’ve got about twenty minutes!”

“To do what, Harmony?” Buffy asked.

“To play some kissing games, duh!”

“Kissing games?” Buffy squeaked. “My mom would kill me.”

“Then go home if you’re not grown up enough to kiss a boy.”

“We can go, Buffy.”

“No,” Buffy told William while glaring at Harmony. “I want to stay.”
***

“We can only play stupid Spin the Bottle,” Harmony pouted. “And we have to use this lame-o two liter bottle. Can you guys believe that my parents locked all the closets and bedrooms? Boys and girls in separate circles!”

Buffy gave William a nervous grin before taking a seat.

“I go first because it’s my birthday!” Harmony giggled and slathered on a fresh layer of strawberry flavored lip-gloss. “Ready boys?”

Buffy took a deep breath as Harmony spun the bottle. She sighed and felt a pull in her chest each time the cap passed William. She calmed down once Harmony kissed a boy that Buffy didn’t recognize.

“Ok, guys, go at it! Ladies first, start in order by first names or something.”

“Who’s next?” asked someone.

“Any As?” another piped up.

“Bs?”

“Buffy!” Harmony jumped and pointed at her. “You’re next! Remember, there must be tongue, I say so!”
***

Please no, Buffy wrinkled her nose. No, no, not Angel, she swallowed in disgust.

“Ready, Buffy?”

“No, I’m not. Harm, I think your bottle’s broken. Can I spin again?”

“No! Kiss him! I wish I could’ve.” Harmony batted her eyes at Angel.

“Then you take my turn—consider it as, like, a birthday gift.”

“If Buffy doesn’t want to kiss him,” William spoke up, “she shouldn’t have to.”

“Yes, she does,” Harmony hissed. “Buffy, you’re taking up all our time! Kiss him!”

“Yesh, do I have bad breath or something?” Angel chuckled, his cheeks turning pink. “You’re hurting my feelings and ego here.”

“Fine, fine.” Buffy closed her eyes and puckered her lips.
***

Wiping off her mouth with the back of her hand, Buffy stood. “I need something to drink.” Once her back was turned, she made a face. “That was so gross,” she said, under her breath. “Angel, ew!”

After rinsing her mouth out, she came back and couldn’t find William in the circle of boys.

“Hey,” Buffy tapped a girl on the shoulder. “Have you seen William?”

“I think he had to pee or something. You should find him and bring him back because I totally want to kiss him.”

“Uh, okay.” Buffy left the group and searched the entire house. When she couldn’t find him, she considered calling her mother but decided against it.

Maybe he’s outside, she thought, putting on her jacket and finding her purse.
***

Buffy found him sitting in the Kendall’s yard under their large tree. “I thought you ditched me.”

“How was it?”

“Nasty.” Buffy started to sit and William stopped her, saying that it would ruin her dress. “Oh, I’ll stand then, in these horrible shoes.”

“Wait a minute.” William took off his jacket and laid it on the grass.

“You’re kidding.”

“I’m not. Sit and take off your pointy shoes.”

“You’re not the boss of me,” Buffy teased before sitting and setting her shoes out in front of her crossed legs. “Well we lasted fifteen minutes before running away.”

“If you want to go back, do it.”

“You don’t wanna get tongued by one of Harm’s cronies?”

“I’d rather die. I can’t believe you kissed Peaches.”

“You and your nicknames.”

“Was it really gross or are you lying?”

“Why would I lie? It was awful. I nearly choked because he jammed his tongue down my throat.”

“Cleaning the tonsils...”

Buffy grinned, happy that he remembered. “I think he threw in a free teeth cleaning.”

William chuckled and looked at his hands. “I don’t think I’d give up my first kiss so easily.”

“What do you mean?”

“Well, it’s dumb but I always had it pictured, how it would go, who it would be with...”

“You’re such a girl.”

“I know but I figure one of us has to be.” He smiled when Buffy giggled and hit his arm. “You may look like a girl but Buffy, you’re quite mannish.”

“I am not!”

“You like pink and that’s it. You never did the Barbie thing or got into those fairy tales and stuff.”

“You think you know everything, William. I like being a girl and I think I do it very well. Just because I don’t write poetry and go on and on about my feelings,” she wiggled her fingers and wrinkled her nose. “You’re too girlie-ish!”

“That’s not a word, Buffy.”

“It is now and in the dictionary underneath it, is a big dumb picture of you.”

“You’re so lame.”

Buffy crossed her arms over her chest and pouted. “You’re stupid.”

They watched as Harmony’s parents returned, their car’s headlights blinding them.

“The kissing’s over, you wanna go back?”

“Do you?”

“Not really.”

“Okay, let’s stay and you can tell me about your dream kiss.”

“Buffy, I don’t think so.”

“Why not? Does it...am I involved?”

“What makes you think that?”

“You’re very predictable, William and a little birdie told me information that makes me think that I may be your secret crush.”

“That’s absurd,” he said.

“Prove it’s not me then. Tell me who it is and then I want your kissing story.”

William grumbled under his breath and held his head in his hands. “Alright! I like you, Buffy.” He paused, keeping his eyes covered. “I’m waiting for you to laugh and call me names.”

“I’m not going to laugh at you, stupid.”

“That’s very reassuring.”

“Look at me and tell me how you want to kiss me. God, that sounds funny,” Buffy laughed and hit him.

“Alright!”
***

Buffy fell back on the grass, not caring about her dress. She gasped for air and her eyes watered due to her laughter. “You’re the biggest girl ever! Kissing on a Ferris wheel at night with twinkling lights and pretty music—you’re such a girl!”

William frowned, his feelings hurt. “I shouldn’t have told you.”

“Was there fireworks too?”

“Shut up.”

“Is that what you where thinking about when I caught you--.”

“Buffy! You’re so—go to hell!”

“What?” She watched in shock as he stomped down the road. “I was kidding!”

“Sod off!”

“What does that mean? William!” When he was almost to her house, Buffy jumped to her feet and tossed his jacket over her arm. “Ow!” she said, realizing that she had run out on the street without her shoes. “Wait! Wait!” Grabbing her shoes, she continued to jog with every rock stabbing her bare feet. When William was at the garage of her house, Buffy hurled a shoe at him. “Stop it now!”

He whimpered in pain and held his head, muttering more curse words.

“I have another shoe!”

“I’m stopping!” William rested against the garage door. “I think I have brain damage.”

“I hope you do!”

“You’re mad at me? You’re crazy!”

“I’m not!” Buffy threw his jacket on the floor and brushed off each of her dirty feet. “I was joking with you, you baby!”

“You know how embarrassed I was! I’m still mortified!”

“Well...maybe you should just keep your hands out of your pants!”

“I’ve had enough,” he snapped.

“Wait.” Buffy held him back, touching his arm. “I...wait.”

“What now?” he demanded.

“I’m sorry, that I laughed at you and that I made fun of you.”

“And for calling me names?”

“Yes.”

William searched her face. “You really mean it?”

“Yes.” Nodding, Buffy bit her lip. “William, you ready?”

“For what?”

Buffy pushed him against the garage door, covering his lips with her own. William seemed to be in shock; he kept his mouth closed and bugged out his eyes.

“William,” she whined, pulling back. “Work with me here.”

“I-I...”

Rolling her eyes, Buffy kissed him again, mirroring what she’d seen on her mom’s favorite soap operas. She moved her head around and tried to gain a deeper entrance. “Let me get to your tonsils.”

He laughed and was about to say that he didn’t have any when Buffy slipped her tongue in his mouth. William made throaty noises and moans as she kissed him. When she pulled back, they panted, both of their chests heaving.

“Um, we should go inside and ah...”

“Yeah, we should go inside.”

They broke apart and walked inside, pretending that nothing had happened.
***
 

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