Chapter 6

“So, this weekend,” Buffy took a deep sip from her straw as they headed back towards the high school, “it’s Founder’s Day.”

“I know.”

“Do you want to come with Dawn and me?”

“You’re asking?” William’s eyes grew wide with shock. “Really, Buffy?”

“Well, I figure I’d beat you and Dawn at your little game. This way, I’ll know you’re coming instead of me being tricked.”

“Would we do a thing like that?” He smiled widely, “Founder’s Day was always fun when we were growing up. It’s still the same right? The picnic and the carnival and all that?”

“Yup, it’s just bigger and more like a county fair.”

“I’d love to go with you.”

“And Dawn. Remember her, William.”

“You’re going to hide behind her, yeah?” he smirked. “That’s alright, I love her almost as much as I love you.”

Buffy’s throat tightened, “William, I...”

“Sorry,” he said, looking into the distance and squinting, “I forgot that you hated me for a minute.”

“I don’t hate you. I’ve never hated you.”

“But you’ve sure screamed it from the rooftops more times than I can count.”

“Yeah, well it just comes out so easily.” She swallowed timidly and tossed her cup as they reached the school. “If you have more problems with the girls, let me know.”

“You’ll protect me?”

“Yes,” she said truthfully, not sure if he was teasing or not. “I don’t want them slobbering all over you...I don’t want you to feel uncomfortable.”

“I see...”

“And I don’t want to be jealous, alright?” Buffy glared and stomped into the building, leaving William behind.
***

“Long time, no see. Where’s your boyfriend?”

“Anya, I see you every day and every day I have to tell you that William’s not my boyfriend.”

“Whatever,” Anya said, rolling her eyes. “Where is he? You never eat with us unless he’s not at school.”

“That’s not true! Ok, well, maybe it is.” Buffy sighed, hating that her friend was right. “William’s got a really bad cold.”

“Oh?” Willow spoke up, her eyes big with concern. “When will he be back?”

“I’m not sure. He’s been such a big baby lately, always whining and saying that he’s going to die.” Buffy laughed, “You should see him with his red runny nose and scratchy voice...”

“You totally love him!” Anya said. “You get dreamy eyed whenever you talk about him. She never did that before, did she, Willow?”

“No,” Willow agreed softly. “Do you like him now?”

“I’ve always liked him...”

“Buffy, do you like him, like him?”

“Will,” Buffy said. “You sound just like Anya!”

“Sorry, Buffy, but you do seem different when you talk about him.”

“Do I really?” Buffy stared off into the distance. “I guess I do like him. Ever since I kissed him--.”

“You kissed him!”

“Anya, quiet,” Buffy said, laughing nervously.

“Why didn’t you tell us?”

“Uh,” Buffy tried to think of an excuse. She didn’t want Willow to know that she was trying to protect her feelings. “It just slipped my mind...”

“Unslip it and tell us the details.” Anya scooted forward and looked interested.

“But, Willow, since you have a crush on him...”

“Oh, I don’t like him anymore.” Willow smiled, “There’s this new boy, Oz and he’s so smart and--.”

“Later, Will, Buffy, share, now. When? Where? Why? How?”

“Yesh,” Buffy laughed, biting her lip. “Is there anything you don’t want to know?”

“Nope. Did you like it? Was it good? Do you want to kiss him again?”

“Anya! You have too many questions!” Buffy blushed and put her hands in her lap. “It was at Harmony’s party.”

“That was months ago! You went through all of the summer without telling us!”

“Anya!” both Buffy and Willow cried.

“Sorry!”

“Okay. We ditched the party and I kissed him after we had a fight.”

“About what?” Willow asked.

“Eh, nothing. Anyway, we were standing under the outside light and he looked so...so, cute, you know? His hair was kinda standing up and his eyes...so shiny and blue. I kissed him right up against the garage. Twice. And they were both very good kisses.”

“Did you tongue kiss him?”

“Once, the last one,” Buffy sighed and ran her hands over her face. “And I want to kiss him again but it’s been forever and we haven’t even come close to more smoochies. At least he’s not avoiding me like before.”

“Before when? What happened?” Anya demanded.

“Nothing, Anya. God, you're so nosy! But ever since the party, we act kinda strange around each other. We stare all the time. I can’t help but look at him and he’s usually doing the same thing, but when I catch him, he blushes--.”

“And why isn’t he your boyfriend?” Anya asked and Willow looked as if she wanted to know the answer too.

“I’m too young to have a boyfriend.”

“You are not! You’re in high school now!”

“My mom says that I have to be at least sixteen.”

“You listen to your mom?” Anya laughed and rolled her eyes. “So, on your sixteenth birthday, what are you going to do, smother William with kisses?”

“I could. It’s a good idea, now that you mention it.”

“Have you asked your mom if it’s okay to date William? I’m sure she wouldn’t mind because he’s such a good guy.”

“Willow, I thought you didn’t like Buffy’s boyfriend?”

“He’s not my boyfriend!” Buffy said, interrupting Willow's answer to the question.

“And whose fault is that?”

“Shut up, Anya.”
***

“Mom?”

“She’s not home.” William answered and then started to cough. “She has a work thing so she took Dawn to a sitter. She left us money for take-out and movies to watch.”

Buffy nodded and sat next to him. “How are you feeling?”

“I’m going to die, Buffy. I can’t breathe, my eyes hurt, my head hurts and my nose hurts. It’s still red, isn’t it?”

“Just like Rudolph,” she teased.

William turned his head and coughed some more. “I’m in hell, pet.”

“Maybe I should sit somewhere else, like somewhere far, far away? I don’t want your cooties.”

“Fine,” he mumbled, looking hurt. “I’ve been looking forward to you coming home all day and then you threaten to leave me.”

“You’re such a baby," she said. She smiled and was happy that he wanted to spend time with her. "So, after I change, you wanna watch a movie?"
***

"You're squeaking. Stop it."

"I can't help it," William whined. He sat with his head back. "Does this help?"

"No," Buffy giggled as he stuffed a Kleenex in each of his nostrils. "You look dumb when you do that."

"But you can't hear anything, yeah?"

"But you can't breathe at all, right? Take them out of your nose."

"Ok, ok." He crumbled the tissues into little balls and added them to his pile that was on the coffee table. "Oh, my head, it’s stuffy too."

"Yesh, you should pick just one thing to whine about."

William rested on the other end of the couch, propping his head up with a pillow. "I can't get comfortable."

"Are you positive I shouldn't sit somewhere else? I could go on the floor so you can lie down?"

"No, no," he said, shaking his head. "I'll shut up. I just wish I could prop my head higher. I can’t breathe at all when I lay down flat."

Buffy watched as he grunted, constantly changing how he was sitting. “William! You’re annoying me!”

“Sorry,” he pouted. “I can’t...”

“Come here you big baby!”

“Why?”

“Just looking at you is making me feel uncomfortable so come here!” He gave her a funny look and inched closer. Buffy glared, upset that he seemed afraid of her. “I’m not going to bite you. I want to make you feel better.”

“How?”

She rolled her eyes out of frustration and patted her lap. “Put your pillow here and that way I’ll be near you; you can lie down and you can breathe. Bring your blanket too.”

“Buffy...?” Once she shot him another glare, he did as she suggested, awkwardly resting on her thighs.

“Better?” she asked, softly once he was curled up. “Comfy?”

“Yes, Buffy,” he answered in a whisper.
***

Buffy thought he was sleeping because he stopped grabbing a tissue every few minutes. She ignored the movie and slowly put her hand in his hair. When he didn’t stir, she combed his hair with her fingers.

“Buffy?”

“Oh, sorry.”

“No, don’t stop,” he pleaded, once she hid her hands. “It felt really good.”

“Ok.” Swallowing, she gently scratched his head. “I was afraid you wouldn’t like me messing up your hair. I’ve noticed you spend a lot of time on it, tons more than I do on mine.”

“You notice?” he asked, making a goofy grin.

“Oh yeah. It always looks real nice, William.” Buffy played until all his hair was standing up in spikes.

“That tickles, pet. You’re giving me goose bumps,” he whispered as her fingers ran against the back on his neck.

“William, can I ask you a question?”

“I guess so.”

“Are you mad that I kissed you that night?”

“No, are you?”

“I just was confused because we’ve never talked about it and...and we’ve never kissed again.”

William looked ahead and asked carefully, “Would you like it if we kissed again?”

“Yes,” she said softly.

“What did you say?” He turned on his back and looked up at her. “I couldn’t hear you; my ears aren’t working right either.”

Buffy sighed and licked her dry lips. “I want you to kiss me. I think about it all the time and I want to know if you’re even going to do it anytime soon. It’s driving me crazy.”

“I think about it all the time too but I was scared and didn’t know how you’d react. I’d kiss you right now if I wasn’t sick,” he said shyly.

“I wouldn’t mind, I think staying home is kinda fun.”

William looked at her, as if asking silently if she was serious. “Buffy?”

“It’s up to you.”

“My nose will run on you.”

“Blow it first and wipe it real good.”

“You’d really get sick just because you want to kiss me?”

She nodded bashfully.

“Ok,” William said, grabbing a handful of tissues. “Give me a minute.”

Buffy waited patiently, getting nervous. She gave him a little smile as he sat up and looked at her with his messy hair and red nose.

“We don’t have much time.”

Buffy nodded, swallowing. “Come closer?”

He scooted until the sides of their bodies were flush. “I never thought this would be so nerve-wracking.”

“Me neither.” She turned towards him and parted her lips slightly. “If you don’t do it first, I will.”

“Right, right.” William put his hand on the side of her face and grinned before pressing his lips lightly to hers. He kissed her repeatedly with his mouth closed. Buffy slowly relaxed, pulling him in against her. She sighed as his hands tangled in her hair and whimpered as he experimentally opened his mouth wider, causing her to do the same. Smiling, she hummed, as his tongue came in contact with hers. Their tongues mingled nicely, making Buffy feel like kissing William was natural and so much better than Angel’s sloppy first kiss.

Buffy was lightheaded as he gently closed his mouth and pulled back.

“Buffy?”

“Yeah?” she said, her eyes still closed.

“Did you like that?” he whispered.

“I feel tingly. It’s a good feeling and my heart feels like it’s gasping...that’s nice too.”

“Does that mean I can kiss you more often?”

“Maybe we should wait until you’re better.”

“Oh, sure,” he said, squeezing her into his chest once more before letting her go.

“When we’re at school...can you hold my hand, William? I see people doing that and...I want us to do that.”

“I would like that too.”

“Should we order the pizza now or do you want to lay down some more?”

“I’d like to rest.” William fluffed his pillow and put it in her lap. “I feel so much better, Buffy.”
***

“You asked him out!” Dawn bounced and squealed. “I knew you would crack sooner or later!”

“What the hell are you talking about?” Buffy moved her head left to right, trying to see around her sister. “Hey! I’m watching TV here!”

“Are you excited?”

“No and it’s not a date. It’s him, you, and me going together,” Buffy stressed, pointing at Dawn. “You should be on my side, Dawnie. Why do you support him so much? What he did to mom...”

“I told you so many times I thought there was a mistake with the mail. I’m sure he sent something and it got lost.”

“He could’ve called.”

“But you weren’t talking.”

“You were on speaking terms with him, weren’t you? Why didn’t he call to comfort you?” Buffy felt her heart race as old anger rose to the surface. “He was practically her son and he didn’t come back, not even once...not before or...after.” She took a deep breath, tears forming in her eyes.

“Buffy, you told him not to come back,” Dawn said softly. “I heard it...when you guys had that fight. You told him to never see us again.”

“I was mad, but he should’ve known I would’ve let him see mom. I’m not that bad of a person, am I?”

“No.” Dawn sat with her on the couch and pulled her close for a hug. “He doesn’t think you’re bad at all. He loves you.”

“I know,” Buffy whimpered. “He told me today.”

“Really?”

She nodded, crying harder. “He just said it and...God, I’ll always love him, Dawnie.”

“Duh,” her sister replied with a laugh. “Do you think I’m stupid or something? Yesh, Buffy.”

Laughing, Buffy pulled back and reached for a Kleenex. “Is it that obvious?”

“Buffy, it’s always been obvious, for as long as I can remember it’s been, ‘Buffy and William: super couple.’ That’s probably why I so don’t understand why you aren’t with him.”

“Things just went bad between us. I thought he should do something and when he refused, I did something bad that hurt his feelings. Then he did something equally bad...there was screaming and accusing and he left.” She sniffled and bit her lip. “And you know the rest. When he ignored mom and didn’t come to her funeral; that just...I want to forgive him, really Dawnie, but I don’t think it’s going to be easy.”

“Have you even tried, Buffy? Maybe you should talk to him instead of pushing him away all the time? Ask him why he didn’t come back when mom was dying and figure out what happened with all those stupid ‘some things.’ Have you guys even said that you’re sorry? Holy crap, who’s the counselor here? Maybe they should give me your job.”

“Funny, Dawn, but there’s more to my job than just butting into people’s lives.”

“Yeah right,” she snorted, “but I’m not butting in. I’m your sister, I’m supposed to be like this and William, he’s like my brother...oh, ew. Strike that, incest is bad.”

“Dawn!” Buffy laughed, “I get what you’re saying and I know you mean well.”

“So, you won’t kill me when I refuse to go to the Founder’s Day stuff with you and William?”

Buffy glared at Dawn for a bit, but then her eyes softened. “I guess not. I need to be alone with him. I need to talk to him.”

“Finally. Think it took you long enough to figure that out?”

“Shut up, Dawn.”
***
 

Chapter 7

“Buffy...”

She shivered; goose bumps spreading along her arms.

“She’ll be home soon.”

“I locked the screen door; she’ll have to get one of us to let her in.”

William laughed, his warm breath drying where he had licked on her neck. “You think of everything.”

Buffy moaned and played with the hem of his t-shirt as he kissed his way back to her mouth. Humming, she mirrored his movements, teasingly brushing their lips together.

They groaned in unison as the doorbell rang.

“Not yet,” Buffy whimpered, deepening their kiss but moving out of his lap.

William followed her out of the room and they took tiny steps, clinging to each other, desperate to keep kissing. “Wait, wait, we’ll fall down the stairs,” he gasped, ripping his mouth away. “Can you let her in?”

“Yeah,” Buffy nodded, trying to catch her breath, “should I tell mom that you’ll be in your room for awhile?”

“Shut up, Buffy.”

She laughed, running to let her mom into the house.
***

“Where’s William?”

“Upstairs, I don’t think he could hear the doorbell ring,” Buffy lied, opening the screen for her mother.

“I need to talk to him as soon as possible.”

“Why? Oh--wait! I’ll get him!” Buffy ran past her mom and turned before reaching the stairs. “Is it something bad?”

“No, well--just tell William to come downstairs.”
***

“William, you smell good...kinda like my lotion...the lotion that has recently gone missing from our bathroom....”

“Shut up, Buffy,” he sang, making his way to the kitchen.

“I stalled for as long as I could.”

“Thank you, but do you know what this is all about?”

“Not a clue.” She sat at the table and patted the seat next to her. “Mom, we’re waiting!”

“Do you think she knows...about us?”

“I doubt it. We’re very sneaky.” Laughing softly, she kissed his cheek.

“Oh, stop that, Buffy,” he whispered, shifting closer to her.

“One more.”

“Just one, a quick one.”

“William? Buffy?”

“Um, mom...” Buffy pulled away from William, licking her lips. “Mom...”

“Mrs. Summers. I...would now be a good time to ask if I can date your daughter?”
***

Making her way down the hallway, Buffy couldn’t help but peek into William’s classroom. Instead of standing at the head of the class, he was in the middle, surrounded by students.

I’d kill to be in there, she thought. She smiled as he read out of a book, his face twisting with emotion.

“God, he puts on quite a performance...”

“Um, Ms. Summers?”

Buffy turned, startled by the boy’s voice. “Yes?”

“You’re blocking the door and I need to get back to class.”

“Oh, sorry, let me open it for you.” Laughing as she let the student into the room, she held up a hand to excuse the disruption. She tried not to blush as William and his kids gave her a strange look. “Um, carry on,” she said sheepishly, making sure the door closed soundlessly before heading to her office.
***

“William, your uncle is moving in across the street.”

“I have an uncle?”

“It’s your father’s brother and he seems like a very kind man...his name is Rupert.”

“You aren’t sending William away, are you? That kiss you saw, it was just a once in a lifetime deal, right, William?” Buffy elbowed him and pleaded with her mother. “Don’t make him go across the street and live with some guy that he doesn’t even know! You adopted him, didn’t you?”

“William is not going to move, his uncle would just like to see him and visit with him, Buffy.” She exhaled in relief and gave William a little smile but her mom continued to speak. “However since you two want to date each other, there will be some new rules around the house.”

Buffy wrinkled her nose, “What kind of rules?”
***

"That's impossible!"

"No, it's not, I don't want you home alone and there's nothing you can say that'll change my mind."

"So, if you go to get more cereal, William has to stand outside until you come back? That's stupid! What if it's raining?"

"Do you want to date him or not? All I ask it that you avoid being alone together when I'm not home...one of you can join me when I leave the house."

"Buffy, it doesn't sound so bad," William whispered. "Mrs. Summers, we'll be good."

"Mom, don't you trust us?"

"Of course I do, I know you and William are good kids, but that will not stop me from taking the locks off the doors..."

"It doesn't sound bad, huh?" Buffy said, mocking William and giving him a dirty look. "William needs a lock on his door, mom."

"Buffy," he hissed, his face turning red. "I would like to be able to lock my door...for the sake of my privacy..." He gave Joyce a quick glance and then focused his eyes on the table. "I won't let Buffy into my room...she's rarely in there unless we're helping each other do homework, you know?"

Buffy's mom sighed, "Just make sure that you always have the door open when you're together."

"We will, always," William promised, grinning. "Won't we, Buffy?"

"Sure, all the time."
***

“Are you not eating today?”

Buffy looked up briefly from her computer and after seeing William’s smirking face, her eyes went back to the screen. “That’s right, I have a lot of work to catch up on.”

“Spent all that time spying on me, yeah?”

“Maybe.”

“You’re really not eating, pet?”

“I forgot my lunch at home on the table.”

“Running late again? That’s not good, Buffy,” he teased, shaking his head in disapproval.

“Bite me, William.”

He chuckled, sitting in a chair facing her desk. “Would you mind if I bug you and eat in here?”

“I guess not--William, you don’t have to do that,” Buffy said once half of his sandwich was dangled in front of her computer screen.

“Eat it. You must not be eating enough because you’re so skinny. I could snap you like a twig without even trying, pet.”

“Is that right?” she smirked. “I think you’d be surprised. I’ve always been good at kicking, William, and weight means nothing when you have a good pointy shoe.”

“True, true, you don’t have to remind me, I still have my war wounds.”

Buffy grinned, pinching off pieces and nibbling on her food. “I’m kinda glad you showed up. I was trying trick my stomach into forgetting it was hungry by keeping my mind on work and my plan was failing miserably.”

“‘Kinda glad,’ to see me? I can handle that. Want some of my drink?”

“No way. We have more hurdles to jump before the cootie swapping. I have my lukewarm coffee and I’m perfectly happy with it.”

“Suit yourself, pet,” he laughed, “but I remember you being particularly fond of my cooties.”

“Let’s change the subject...so, about tomorrow, would you be shocked if I told you that Dawn’s bailing on us?”

“No, but I will be disappointed if you bail on me too.”

“William...”

“You’re backing out on me, are you?” he said, frowning. “I’ve been looking forward to this weekend.”

“Me...me too...”

“Can’t we just...for one day, can’t we pretend like we’re on pleasant terms? I don’t even need the entire two days--hell, just pick one day, Buffy.” He sighed and pleaded so quietly that she could barely hear, “Don’t let me down.”

“William, I’m going with you,” she said gently, her heart breaking at his slumped shoulders. “In fact, the reason why Dawn’s refusing to join us is so we can talk and...I think it’s a good idea.”

There was a pause and then he asked, “You mean it?”

She nodded, shyly keeping her eyes downcast. “I want us to work things out...I miss you so much sometimes.” She blinked, struggling not to cry. “I know it’s stupid but...”

“I’m here, Buffy.”

She gasped as he touched her wrist. She looked up, finding him behind her desk and staring at her intensely. “No, not really...”

“Love...”

Keeping one hand in contact with his, she reached for a Kleenex. She dabbed her eyes and blew her nose. “You’re not here how I need you or how I want you,” she whispered.

“Buffy, let me...”

Unable to stop herself, she went into his open arms. “God,” she moaned, holding him close with her fists full of tissues. Her chest ached as he buried his face in her hair and babbled incoherently about how much he missed her and wanted her back. “William,” she started to say and then the bell rang, meaning it was the end of the lunch break. “You have a class to teach,” she wiped his eyes with the driest Kleenex, not leaving his embrace, “and I have kids to see...”

“Alright,” he said, searching her eyes and pressing his lips to her temple, “but I want to see you later.”

“You will, you will,” she promised, holding her hand to his cheek. She bit her lip and sniffled before lightly kissing the corner of his mouth. “I want to see you too.”

“Oh, love,” he groaned, hugging her tightly. “If I don’t go now, I’ll never leave.”

“Go.”

“After work, okay?”

She nodded, barely pushing him back, “Go, William.” She held back a whimper as he let go of her and walked out the door. Taking a deep breath, she sat in her chair and looked up as the door opened again. “William, go.”

“I just wanted you to know that, eh...thank you, Buffy and I can’t wait for later, pet.”
***

Buffy was happy to find his door unlocked. "William?" she whispered, pushing it open and slipping into his room.

She crept towards his bed, careful not to trip in the darkness. "You awake?" Lightening cracked, causing the room to light up briefly. She shivered, hearing rain pound harder against the window. She called for him again and when he continued to sleep, Buffy quickly got under sheets.

"God, you could sleep through anything." Moving his arm, she snuggled into him until she was comfortably against his bare chest. Swallowing, she ran her hand from his waist up, never feeling so much of his skin before. "Wake up," she said, but her voice was drowned out by the sound of rolling thunder. "I'm never doing this again." Grumbling about how stupid he was, Buffy started to get out of his bed but suddenly an arm circled around her, halting her movements.

"What are you doing here?"

"Let go of me."

"It's raining?"

"Yeah and the power's been out for at least an hour."

"You afraid of storms?"

"No." Buffy squirmed, still trying to get away until the loud noises from outside made her whimper. "Okay, maybe a little scared."

"Come here. Relax," William said softly.

"William, are you going to have a heart attack?"

"Why do you ask?"

"I can hear your heart...” Buffy looked up at him from where she was resting on his chest. "I'm nervous too."

"I've never had a girl in my bed before."

"I've never been in a guy's bed before. I just thought...I'm not sure what I was thinking. The storm was keeping me awake and then I was thinking about how good it would be to see you..."

"And you came to me," he finished for her, kissing the top of her head. "I'm glad you did and that you woke me up, Buffy."

She tilted her head up, inviting him to kiss her lips. Once their mouths were fused together, Buffy melted, no longer worried about how awkward it was to be with him under the sheets. "William," she whispered, once she felt a wandering hand cup her breast.

"Sorry, sorry. I shouldn't...” His hand didn’t move, instead his fingers lightly encircled her nipple and twisted around it.

“William,” she purred, not resisting the touches and feeling shots of electricity jolt through her tank top to her skin. He was sliding down one of the straps when another flash of lightening made her jump and bury her head into his shoulder. She froze, noticing that something was poking her thigh. “Oh, my God…” she whispered, shifting towards it and hearing William moan. “Maybe I should…go?”

“No!” Once Buffy started to roll away, he caught her and held her close. “Please, please stay. I…I can’t help it but I’ll ignore it. Please?” When she didn’t answer, he covered her face with soft kisses. “I won’t do anything, I swear it, Buffy…don’t go.”

Closing her eyes, she relished the sound and feel of his lips smacking against hers.

“I love you, Buffy, I wouldn’t do anything that…”

Buffy’s eyes popped open and they stared at each other, eyes wide.

“That, eh, I wasn’t planning on saying that…”

She watched in the darkness faintly seeing the outlines of his face. “You love me?” she said, tenderly cupping his chin. “Really?”

“I…” he looked as if he was going to deny it but then he said, “I always have, for as long as I can remember. You’ve always meant so much to me.”

“Oh, wow.”

“Is it really news to you?” he said, laughing softly.

She shook her head, caught up in a dreamy state and unable to speak. He loves me, she thought, barely able to breathe.

“Buffy…are you, alright? Did I say too much?”

“William,” she said, pouring much adoration and warmth into his name. She sighed, cuddling him and wrapping her arms around him. “I can’t stay too long but I’ll be here as long as I can.”
***

“Stop pacing!”

“I can’t,” Buffy whined, keeping an eye out the front window. “He’s coming by, he said, ‘later.’”

“So what?” Dawn shrugged and then looked up from her homework. “Oh my God! What happened? Something happened!”

“Nothing happened...okay, maybe a little something. I think we’re moving in the right direction, Dawnie.”

“Yes! So, was there kissing? Hot monkey sex in your office—in the janitor’s closet?”

“No! There was...there was very nice—G-rated—holding and some tears,” Buffy sighed, trying not to smile too foolishly. “It made me think what went wrong could be cleared up, you know? And maybe even painlessly...He said he wanted me back...”

Dawn jumped to her feet, “Yay! I’m so happy for you guys!” They laughed and hugged until there was a knock at the door. “I’ll get it!”

“Dawnie, nice to see you too,” William chuckled as Buffy’s little sister nearly tackled him to the ground. “Just what did you tell her, pet?”

“Nothing,” Buffy said, looking innocent. “What took you so long?”

“Well, I have a job, you know? I had some things that had to be graded. Now, if I can get this thing off of me,” he jabbed his fingers into Dawn’s side, making her squeal with giggles, “I can take you on a little walk, if you’re interested...”

“She’s so totally interested!”

“Then she’d better gather her things and we’ll be off. Bit, don’t be surprised if she doesn’t come home for dinner.”
***
 

Chapter 8

“Hi, Mr. Giles, is William ready?”

“You must be Buffy. You can just call me Giles, dear.” Rupert Giles gave her a friendly grin and cupped her hand in his warm palms. “William has spoken volumes about you.”

“Really?”

“Yes. Come in. William’s upstairs.”

“Wow, Giles, the house looks...different.” She took slow steps, realizing that the last time she had been there was the day after William’s mother died.

“If that’s a compliment, thank you.”

“It is and you’re welcome.”

“Would you care for a drink or something to snack on?”

“Sure, I’ll just...” she pointed to the stairs and Giles gave her a nod.
***

“Are you okay?” Buffy found William staring out the window of his old room. She touched his shoulder and he turned, giving her a little grin.

“Hey, pet.”

“Hey.” He was suddenly in her arms and she rubbed his back. “William, are you okay?”

He nodded, closing his eyes and holding her tightly.

“I’m not sure that I believe you. Is it Giles? He seems nice but if you don’t like him...”

“He’s alright. I just don’t like it here. I thought over time...I don’t like it, Buffy.”

“It’s only been a few months...”

“Sometimes it feels longer and sometimes it feels like it was a few days ago, you know?”

“Maybe Giles and you could talk at my house? That way you won’t feel uncomfortable.”

“You do think of everything, Buffy. What would I do without you?”

“Don’t think about that; I’m not going anywhere. Let’s go downstairs. Giles said he was fixing me something and I could’ve sworn that I smelled cookies....”
***

“Why do I have the feeling that Dawn may lock me out of the house if we don’t make up?”

“She does have a mischievous streak. I’m positive that it’s a Summers thing.”

Buffy smiled, anxiously swinging her purse with her hand. “So, where are we going?”

“I figured we could go to the lake if you wanted to.”

“Are we running away again?”

“Maybe.”

“Okay, we can go there as long as there’s no skinny dipping.”

“Well there goes my plan. Bloody hell,” William teased. “We should just go back because if I don’t have you naked, I don’t know what to do with you.”

“Watch it, William.”

“Oh, sorry. But you know things like skinny dipping are done best at night and under the stars...”

“I agree.”

William gave her a sideways glance and then grinned, looking ahead. “If I get too annoying, just hit me, love.”

“You are kinda bubbly.”

“And nervous.”

“I thought you were never nervous around me.”

“I lied. I don’t want to mess this up.”

“I don’t want you to either but I’ll give you another chance if you do, just because I like you.”

“I’m honored, Buffy.”

“Yeah, yeah.”

They walked in silence and fell back into their old routine once they reached the lake. While William took off his coat and laid it on the grass, Buffy ran her fingers over where their initials were carved in the tree, above the marks that his parents made. Taking a deep breath, she sat next to William on the ground. “Where to start?” she asked, squinting at the sunshine that glimmered on the water.
***

“I’m opening a bookstore in town.”

“Oh, how interesting, Rupert.” Joyce passed a bowl to Buffy at the dinner table. “I know William loves books, don’t you?”

“Yes, Mrs. Summers.”

“Well,” Rupert patted his face with a napkin, “I will be looking for employees. How old are you, Will?”

Buffy wrinkled her nose, never hearing William being called by the shortened version of his name. She looked at him, but he didn’t seem to mind.

“I’m almost sixteen.”

“Would you be interested in a job? Of course, if it’s alright with you, Joyce. He would start with shelving and eventually move up to working the register.”

William’s face lit up, looking from Giles to Joyce. “I would love something like that. Please, Mrs. Summers?”

“Well...you shouldn’t work too many hours when you’re in school.”

“How does fifteen hours sound or maybe a bit more if he wants to work weekends?”

“That sounds great!”

Joyce grinned. “I guess fifteen hours would be fine but no weekends for awhile, okay?”

“Okay! Isn’t this great, Buffy?”

Buffy forced a grin. “Yeah.”

“You know, if you promise to behave and work together, I could hire another person to shelve...”

“Really?” Buffy smiled. “I get to work too and with William? Yes!”
***

“Did you like it over there?”

“No.”

“Not even a little?”

“Well, maybe a little. I liked my school and before you smirk, that was all that I liked. It was so bloody cold and everything felt...cramped. The trees were so tall that I got lost all the time. The traffic was always insane and the prices—I lived on cereal during my college years and not even the good sugary stuff.”

“And you said that I was too skinny,” Buffy snorted. “I knew you were bony. Your face is so freaking thin that I can see your cheek bones from a mile away.”

“Is that a bad thing? You always said you liked them.”

“I find them aggravating now, okay?”

“Okay,” William chuckled.

“If you hated it so much, why did you wait three more years to show up?”

“Graduate school.”

“That makes sense.”

“Then it took me awhile to get the guts to come back. Moving across the country is also something that took a bit of time…”

“You should’ve come back sooner...especially when mom died, you know?”

William sighed. “Now the fun starts.”

“Well, you can’t deny it. You should’ve done something, if not for me, then Dawn—for mom—a card, something.”

“I sent a card! Flowers with a little card for each of you!”

“I never saw any flowers or cards, William.”

“Things can get lost in the mail--.”

“You should’ve come! Why didn’t you call? I needed you so badly—just hearing your voice would’ve helped...”

William swallowed and looked Buffy in the eye. “I did. I came, Buffy,” he revealed softly. “I was at the funeral, but you weren’t.”
***

“Are you afraid of it?”

“Shhh! Not so loud!” Buffy scanned both ends of the hallway, hoping that William would stay in his teacher’s classroom and not come out too soon. “I’m only a little...scared, okay! Maybe...oh, Anya. Am I normal? What if I have a phobia?”

“A penis phobia?”

“Shut up! Don’t laugh, I’m serious!”

“Have you tried to talk to William about your...problem?”

“How I can I tell him at I’m terrified of a part of his anatomy that he’s so fond of? Anya, he loves his...thing.”

“God, Buffy, what boy doesn’t love it?”

“This is horrible,” she proclaimed, resting her forehead against her cold locker.

“Is he pressuring you to have sex with him?”

“William is the sweetest guy ever,” Buffy whined, “he would never pressure me.”

“Are you pressuring him?” Anya asked excitedly. “I knew you weren’t as innocent as you seemed--.”

“No! I’m not! I just...when the time comes, I don’t want to have a heart attack, you know? If I run out of the room screaming, it could ruin the mood...Anya!”

Buffy’s friend continued to giggle. “I sooo doubt you’ll keep your phobia for long.”

“Phobia?”

“William!” Buffy jumped, “What did your teacher want?”

“I’m right here, Buffy, you don’t need to yell.” He frowned seeing that Buffy was blushing and that Anya was wiping tears from her eyes. “Did I miss something?”

“No,” Anya answered, clearing her throat. “Buffy just told me a joke.”

“A joke, pet? It must’ve been a doozy.”

“Yeah, Buffy tell him.”

“Shut up. Don’t you have somewhere to go?” Buffy glared and continued to give Anya dirty looks until she sauntered away. “I hate her so much sometimes.”

“I see that.” William laughed, taking her hand in his. “You’ll tell me about this joke about phobias?”

“Um, maybe...it’s more of a girl thing—yeah, it’s about girl stuff, you’d be grossed out.”

He wrinkled his nose, “Maybe I don’t want to hear it.”

Buffy sighed in relief. “Tell me about your teacher. Are you in trouble? What did she want?”

William smiled proudly. “I won, Buffy.”

“What’d you win?”

“A contest. I submitted a poem and I won in the category!”

“Oh, that’s great! You didn’t tell me that you entered in anything. What did you win?”

“It was a fluke deal really and I didn’t want to get my hopes up too high but I won this,” he revealed the metal that was hiding up his sleeve. “I also get some college money. I’m going to a statewide competition next weekend in LA.”

“Oh! That’s so good! But wait—what about your birthday? It’s on Saturday...do you think I could go with you?”

“I don’t know. We’re heading up there on Friday and we’ll be back on Sunday.”

“How many people are going?”

“Just a handful. We’re staying in a hotel and it’ll be all expenses paid.”

Buffy chewed on her lip, deep in thought. “There has to be a way, William. I’m not missing your birthday. Sixteen is like a milestone. I have got to be with you.”

“Buffy, pet, we’ll see but I won’t make any promises. We’ll have to ask your mom—and don’t think up a crazy scheme.”

“Would I?”

“Yes.”

“No, no,” she grinned, putting his metal around her neck. “Tell me about your award-winning poem?”

“It’s nothing much,” William shrugged modestly, “just a little ode.”

“You’re cute when you’re humble. I don’t see it often.”

“Ha, Buffy.” He gave her a little smirk as she kissed his cheek.

“What’s your poem about?”

“Well, there are a few themes...”

“You’re even more adorable when you’re speechless and blushy.”

“Shut up, pet.”

“Why do I have a feeling I could’ve popped into your poetry?”

“Because you’re a pain, Buffy. A bloody pain.”

“Awww, you wrote something about me and it won you prizes!” She cooed, bringing him close and slipping her arms under his jacket.

“Buffy, we’re in school...”

“Not officially, class ended an hour ago. You wrote it about me, didn’t you?”

“Maybe,” he whispered, giving her a kiss; Buffy moaned, coaxing him to make it deeper.

“Tell me,” she said between kisses.

“Yes, yes, it was about you.”

“Oh, William...I love you so much.” He pulled back, leaving Buffy openmouthed and whining. “Hey, who said the kissing could stop?”

“You said it.”

“Said what?”

“Buffy, don’t ruin this for me.”

“We shouldn’t do this here.”

“I guess you’re right. Ready to run with me, pet?”

Buffy agreed, keeping up as they ran through the empty halls of the school.
***

“This spot to your liking?”

Catching her breath, Buffy nodded. “I think you’re the best boyfriend and—the best friend that I could ever—I love you, William.”

“Buffy,” he groaned, his voice rough. “I love you too.”

They leapt into each other’s arms, kissing madly while muttering terms of endearment and words of affection to each other.

“Mom...she could look out the window and...we need to go inside soon.”

William said nothing, moving them backwards from the center of driveway. Buffy let out a grunt as she was lifted and pressed against the garage door of her house. It seemed natural for her to wrap her legs around his waist.

“Oh, God. Oh, God.”

“I know, I know,” William said, unable to stop his kisses. “I want you...I love you.”

“Oh, God!”

“Shhh! Shhh, Buffy... Love you; it’s incredible...the way you make me feel…”

“Oh.” She panicked as he rubbed against her crotch but at the same time, she didn’t want him to stop. His soft whispers and caresses made her lightheaded. “William, we shouldn’t…we’re outside and Giles, he could see and…”

“Buffy!”

They froze mid-kiss and William quickly moved his hand out from underneath Buffy’s bra.

“You—you’re grounded! And William--.”

He winced, pulling away from Buffy and putting her back on her feet. “Mrs. Summers, it was my fault.”

“No, it wasn’t just his fault.”

Joyce looked at each of them, both shocked and angry. She clutched the trash bag in her hand more as William tried to causally cover his pants. “Both of you go upstairs, now.”

Buffy cringed, knowing that her mother’s serious tone was more dangerous than her screams.

“We’re so busted,” Buffy whispered as they made their way into their separate bedrooms.
***
 

Chapter 9

“You couldn’t have been at the funeral because Dawn would’ve seen you and she would’ve told me that you were home.”

“Well, I wanted to blend in with the crowd and…”

“She saw you!”

“Buffy—.”

“My sister—who I complained to over and over again for years—saw you and she never told me,” Buffy paused, breathing heavily. “She let me hate you and let me think that you hated mom—.”

“Wait, hold it, pet.” William tried to touch Buffy’s arm but she scooted away. “Buffy, I told her not to say anything because--.”

“You!”

“Shut up,” he frowned, moving closer, not letting Buffy get away. “You were mourning and I didn’t want to make matters worse. I didn’t want Dawnie to see me but she did and I couldn’t run from her fast enough. If it helps her case, I had to beg. She wanted to tell you very much.”

Buffy tried not to pout as she searched his eyes. “You were in Sunnydale and you didn’t see me?”

“I couldn’t find you—.”

“You didn’t look!” Buffy got to her feet and started to pace. “How could you not, you jerk!”

“Buffy…”

“Where would I be?” She gritted her teeth. “God, I want to kick you so bad, right now.”

“Thanks for the warning.” William got up so he wouldn’t be a sitting target to her pointy shoes. “Were you…were you here, Buffy?”

“Hello, Mr. Obvious!”

“We weren’t talking and you came here?” he said, softly. “I don’t understand.”

“I couldn’t go to the funeral! I couldn’t see her like that!” Buffy’s eyes filled with tears and her chin trembled. “I didn’t know where else to go and this spot means so much…”

He edged towards her, hoping that her guard was down. “Don’t hit me and please don’t kick me,” William whispered, daring to cup her elbow with his palm. “Maybe I wasn’t thinking clearly but don’t hold that against me or your sister. We were trying to do what was best and we mucked it up. I was going to call but I couldn’t so I hopped on the fist plane—I could only stay for the funeral. I longed to see you…” Buffy blinked, wetness sliding down her cheeks. “Don’t. Don’t cry, Buffy. You know I can’t stand it.”

“William,” she croaked between sniffles. “Why aren’t you holding me?”
***

“I know that I can’t stop you from having sex but I can hopefully educate you about doing it safely and if I’m lucky, you’ll both control your…urges and postpone having sex until you’re at least forty.”

Buffy shifted uncomfortably and glanced at William, who looked like he was going to be sick. “Mom…please don’t,” she pleaded. “This is way too embarrassing…”

“No, no, this is my duty as a parent. I can’t have you doing something that’ll you’ll regret. I don’t want a grandchild before you graduate.”

“Mom!”

Joyce took a deep breath and set a stack of papers on to the table. “We’ll start with abstinence and move onto contraceptives…”

“Mom, we took sex education in eighth grade,” Buffy whined.

“…and then we’ll shift into,” Joyce inhaled, looking sadly at Buffy, “teen pregnancy and just because it’s a common occurrence, I may also include some anti-drug and peer pressure lecturing just to be safe.”
***

Buffy swallowed and closed her eyes as her mother slid a stack of pamphlets across the table to each of them. “Am I still grounded?”

“No.”

“But you’ll be watching us like a hawk?”

“It may seem like it but I want you both to be able to make sensible decisions.”

“Can go in my room now?”

“Yes and William can go with you.”

“What do you mean?” Buffy said, peeking open one eye.

“Keep the door open. I won’t come upstairs but I think you and William should talk and maybe read over the literature I gave you...together.”

“Really?”

“Yes, if that’s alright with William. William?”

Buffy looked at him when he didn’t respond. “Mom, you’ve traumatized my boyfriend!”
***

“She’s a psycho. I’m so sorry. Sit. Do you hate me? Please talk to me, William. I can’t believe that she saw us.” Buffy chewed on lip, wondering if he would break up with her. “Please talk to me,” she whispered, touching his hand.

“I could never hate you.” He held both of her hands and looked up at her from were he was sitting on the foot of her bed. “Do you think we’re moving too fast?”

“I don’t know,” she said softly. “Sometimes I think we are but then when you kiss me or…” she looked down shyly, “when you touch me, I change my mind. It feels so right and I love you so much.”

“And you know if we were to get serious that we’d take every precaution imaginable, right? I’m not going to get you pregnant, I swear it. What happened by the garage…I wouldn’t have made love to you like that.”

Buffy felt her cheeks grow warm again. “William…”

“Yes, pet?”

“I…” Once their eyes meet, she lost her train of thought. When she tried to look away again, William pulled her down next to him.

“I love you,” he whispered. “I won’t do anything…I don’t want you to regret anything.”

She nodded, still feeling awkward.

“Nothing will happen unless you’re ready.”

“So, you’re ready? How long have you been…ready? How much longer are you willing to wait?”

“I don’t think what I said came out right.” He cupped her chin, “I’m as uneasy about this as you are.”

“You don’t seem like it. You’re all excited when I’m nearly peeing my pants in fear.”

“Are you scared of me?”

Buffy winced, “No—well—no.”

“That’s not very convincing, Buffy. What did I do to make you afraid of me?”

“I’m not afraid of you!” she insisted.

“You just fear me. Different word, same meaning, pet.”

“I’m trying to explain!”

“Well, do it. I’m listening.”

“You’re mad at me.”

“I’m not,” he said tightly. “But I won’t lie; my feeling are hurt.”

“I’m sorry. I’m being so dumb.”

“Buffy,” William pleaded. “Whatever it is, tell me. I thought you wanted me too. Am I misreading you?”

“No! I just...I can’t do this right now!” Buffy’s heart felt like it was being stabbed, seeing the confusion and pain in William’s eyes. “William, William,” she said, giving him a hug. “I can’t talk right now, not with the door open. Please don’t be mad at me. I’ll come to your room tonight and I’ll tell you everything. I don’t want to hurt your feelings. I love you, William and...I do...I want you.” Buffy kissed him on each cheek and tried not to cry. “Dream about our first time every night--.”

“Buffy,” he gasped.

“I mean it.” She kissed his mouth quickly, making their lips smack. “I think about you constantly. It’s not fear. I’m so, so, nervous but I can’t think about...doing it...with anyone else but you.”

“You don’t have to...stop, Buffy.”

“Don’t be mad at me.”

“I’m not.”

“You’ll let me explain tonight?”

“Yes.”

“Thank you. Thank you.” She moaned as his hand cradled the back of her head and pulled her to him for a breathtaking kiss. “William...”

“No more talking, pet, until later.”

Buffy nodded, responding to his kisses.
***

Buffy couldn’t help but snuggle backward, enjoying the feel of his chest pressed into her back and his strong arms around her. She didn’t want to speak; worried that it would ruin the moment.

“This...is becoming a fantastic day,” William said, barely above a whisper. “I could hold you for ages.”

She swallowed as he entwined their fingers together.

“I decided long ago, so long ago, that I forgave you. I always understood why you pushed me away and I’ll do anything to be back into your life. I miss you and it’s bloody unbearable to know that you’re living so close but I can’t be there...”

“If you always understood, you shouldn’t have cheated on me…”
***

Buffy?”

“She’s snoring.” Buffy’s hand shook as she closed the door and locked it.

“You look...is that new?”

“Kinda.” She pulled on the hem of her nightgown, making sure it didn’t go up too much as she climbed into his bed. “Can I?”

“Sure.” He held her close and shivered as Buffy ran her fingers along his bare chest. “Buffy, you were going to tell me something?”

“Yeah.”

“Take your time.”

She kissed his chest and continued to give him feathery touches until she heard a catch in his breath.

“You aren’t talking, love,” he groaned.

“You can touch me.” She wiggled and whispered in his ear, “I like that nickname.”

“Giles...he said you might. I’ve been watching a lot of...English television with him.”

“Stop holding your breath.”

“Buffy...”

Biting her lip, she moved one of his hands so it rested on her breast. When he started to caress her, she closed her eyes and nudged the bulge in his pajama pants with her leg.

“What are you up to?”

“I’m explaining, William.” She kissed him passionately and gasped in his mouth as she cradled the weight of her body between his legs.

“Buffy,” he moaned, shifting his hips slightly. “Are you trying to kill me?”

“No.”

“Then what…”

“Remember when I told you that I wasn’t a reader girl?”

“Vaguely, my head…it’s very foggy at the moment.”

“I lied. I read a lot.”

“Good for you.”

“Shut up,” she laughed, kissing down his neck.

“Buffy, may I?”

“Um, yes.”

“Yes?”

She nodded and grunted as he bunched her nightgown at her waist. “The books I read have a lot of…love in them.”

“You mean romance novels?”

“Yeah, and they are good and stuff but…”

“What?”

She took a deep breath as William’s hands explored her naked top half. Her gown kept creeping up until it was at her armpits.

“It’s up to you but…can I see you, Buffy?”

“William…”

“Never mind, pet. The blankets can stay up if it makes you more comfortable. You were talking about romance novels, yeah? I can’t wait to see where this conversation is heading,” he said with a laugh.

“Well—okay, this is bugging me.” While keeping the covers up, she pulled off her nightgown and dropped it on the floor. William’s eyes bugged out as she settled back on top of him. She grabbed each of his hands, “Hold me.”

“Alright,” he swallowed.

“In books, no matter how romantic they are…when they describe…you know…”

“What?”

“You know!” she whined. “Holy Crap, William! This is hard for me to explain! My face is red isn’t it?”

“I didn’t think I was nagging you. I thought you wanted to talk but you were all over me.”

Buffy’s eyes narrowed, “You complaining?”

“No, not in the slightest. My girlfriend is topless in my bed—things are going very well.”

“Shut up,” she laughed softly. “Don’t tease me.”

“Out with it.”

“When I said that I was afraid, it wasn’t because of you…completely. If you’ve been noticing, I freak out whenever you know what gets in the picture.” Before he could ask, she snaked a hand between them. “You know,” she hissed, pressing her palm against his erection.

“Oh.”

“Yes.”

“You’re afraid of…”

“Please don’t laugh or make fun of me!” She took her hand away so she could hug him with both arms and bury her head in his chest. “In books—they are never nicely described! They’re red and demanding and—throbby! Girls—our stuff is described with pretty metaphors like flowers and—don’t think that I’m stupid! I’m just a big baby that’s all!”

“Buffy.”

“No! I’m dumb, don’t look at me!”

“Buffy,” he said, gently sitting up and moving her head so she had to look at him. “I don’t think you’re dumb or stupid or a baby.”

“You’re just saying that so you can look at me when I’m topless,” she pouted, keeping their chests glued together as she wrapped her legs around his waist.

“No, no, I understand.”

“How can you? Your…thing is your best friend!”

“No,” he laughed. “You are. It’s my second best friend.”

“You’re teasing me again!”

“I love you, Buffy. You’re amazing.” He continued to smile, kissing her forehead. “But really, what kind of books are you reading, love? Does Joyce now about this?”

“Oh! Don’t tell!”

“You hide them?”

“Just like you hide your dirty magazines.”

“You saw those?”

Buffy laughed, nuzzling his face with her nose. “I love you too.”

“Just not all of me?”

“That’s right.”

“You could’ve fooled me a few minutes ago.”

“That was nice, wasn’t it?”

“Oh, yes.”

“Are you upset? Did I hurt your feelings again?”

“I’m alright.”

“You sure?”

“I still have my girlfriend topless.”

“Cute, William.”

“You know, Buffy, we have awhile before your mom gets up at the crack of dawn and tomorrow’s Saturday…”

“What are you saying?”

“We don’t have to sleep,” he offered with an innocent shrug.

“That so?”

Smirking, he laid her on her back. “Can’t I take a peek?”

“What? This will be some sort of ‘I’ll show you mine if you show me yours’?”

“That,” he swallowed, “sounds nice.”

“I really don’t want to be afraid of you.” Buffy put her hand on his face and kissed him tenderly.

“I’ll keep my red, throbby bits to myself—unless you want to be acquainted…”

“Maybe later? I think I need to take tiny steps. I just admitted my problem, William.”

“Okay, pet.”

“William…”

“Please, Buffy?”

“I guess.” Buffy threaded her fingers through his hair, pushing his head to her chest.
***


 

Chapter 10

“It’ll work.”

“It won’t and we barely got out of the sex talk without being grounded until the end of time.”

“You’re so dramatic,” Buffy laughed. “Anya and I figured everything out. Her mom goes to Los Angeles every weekend and they’ll take me with them and bring me back home. It’ll be flawless. Mom won’t find out.”

“Those sound like some famous last words.”

“I’ll ask to go, saying that since reading all the crap about teen pregnancy, I’ve seen the light and I need a weekend away from you to think about the seriousness of our relationship. She’ll be so proud; she’ll have to agree and then days later, you come in and tell her about your poem and the writing deal.”

“What if she calls to check on you?”

“I’ll give her Anya’s cell number and Anya will make up some kind of story.”

“Oh, so we’re relying on Anya?” William asked, rolling his eyes. “My confidence in this plan is lifting as we speak.”

“You don’t want me to stay in the hotel with you? Just think--no mom, no reason to whisper… And it’ll be your birthday--.”

“God, Buffy, it sounds bloody fantastic. But if we get caught she’ll murder me. She’ll kick me out, I know it. I like Giles, but to live with him…” He cringed and shuddered. “I like where I live.”

“I like where you live too but I want a weekend with just for the two of us. It’ll be fun. I’ll shop while you’re writing and then we’ll do stuff together in between.”

“But you’re forgetting that it’s considered a field trip and if I’m caught with a girl in my room, I could get kicked out of school!”

“They wouldn’t kick you out; you’d probably just get some form of suspension.” She laughed as William’s eyes bugged out. “It won’t happen.”

“I hope you’re right.”

“I know that I’m right.”
***

William’s body tensed up and Buffy turned to look at him. “I had to stick that in.”

“I didn’t cheat on you.”

“You just had sex with the first girl that came your way.”

“That’s not true.”

“Oh, I forgot. There was alcohol involved--.”

“You said that if I left that it was over.”

“Well…”

“Ha, can’t deny that, can you?”

“Shut up.”

“It didn’t mean anything.”

“That makes it better,” she said, laughing bitterly. “It’s better to be emotionally unattached to whatever you’re sticking your dick into--.”

William made a noise that was similar to a growl and his hold on her became tighter. “We could’ve made it work. I would’ve done the long distance thing, but no, you had to piss me off. I just wanted to go to a good school and you didn’t give a damn about that. To say that I had to stay or we were finished…”

“You could’ve stayed in California.”

“You could’ve come with me.”

“William, I can’t even imagine… What if I left, what would’ve happened to Dawn?”

“We would’ve come back. I’m not heartless--how many times do I have do tell you that?”

“I still can’t believe that you could find someone else so quickly. It was as if you forgot about me completely…”

“Oh, fuck that--.”

“Well, it was a stupid thing to do!”

“I know and I’ve said I’m sorry so many times. But you kissed Angel; shall I throw that into your face?”

“If you want to, but I didn’t have sex with him so it won’t get you very far.”

“You rammed your tongue down his throat to get back at me?”

“Yes. I wanted it to be the last thing you saw before you left me.”

“Damn it, Buffy--.”

“What? Do you think that was a mean thing to do? You had drunken sex with Harmony!” Buffy twisted in his arms so she could glare at him better. “Harmony! Gross, William! I hope you were sprayed down and then tested for every STD on the planet! Sure I was unreasonable! The things that I said--they were immature and just…stupid but I never wanted you out of my life!”

“It was an offer that I couldn’t refuse,” William said, quietly. “Giles was so kind to offer…he really thought I could be something…”

“I thought so too--.”

“I felt that I had to go and I went. I regret hurting you and using Harmony, and all I can do now is hope that you’ll forgive me. And if you won’t…”

“William,” she sighed, seeing tears in his eyes. She went into his arms again and hid her face in his chest, not wanting to see him cry. “You know that I will, William. I love you so much, I’d be crazy not to.”

“I feel like such a wanker…bawling like an idiot…”

“You’re not. You’re still sweet, so sweet.”

“Even though I’m a cheating bastard? Wouldn’t that be an oxymoron?”

“I broke up with you. You didn’t cheat--even if it still hurts like hell.”

“Buffy…”

“You’re off the hook for the mom stuff, alright? The other, I’m still smarting over but I want you back, William. I want to work through this stuff. I miss you.”

“You mean it?”

She nodded, wrapping her arms around his neck. “Just tell me that you love me.”

“Buffy--God, the word love doesn’t even begin to describe what I feel for you.”

She closed her eyes briefly, savoring his words. “William, you ready?”

“For what?” he said, with a sniffle.

She laughed softly, before cupping his face and kissing him.
***

“Can I say goodbye to him, mom?”

“Make it quick, Buffy, or he’ll be late.”

“I will. Besides, Anya and her mom will be here soon to pick me up.” Buffy ran out the front door and found William making his way down the driveway with his suitcase in hand. “Don’t go yet!”

“I wasn’t.”

“I’ll see you in an hour,” she whispered. “Mom’s looking out the screen door--don’t look at her!”

“Sorry. Sit in the lobby and I’ll get to you as soon as I can.”

“I can’t wait.” Buffy grinned widely and kissed his cheek. “This will be the best weekend.”

“If we don’t get caught.”

“We won’t.”

“I’ll be worrying the whole trip up.”

“Don’t think about that,” she paused and leaned into his ear, “think about waking up next to me in the morning. We’ll have breakfast in bed and…I didn’t even pack something to sleep in at night…”

“It’s going to be a very uncomfortable walk to school now.”

“I need to go. Can’t have you being late.” Buffy hugged him and watched until he disappeared down the road.
***

Buffy lightly brushed her lips against William’s; she then pulled back, biting her lip. “Can we just start over?”

“How much over?” he whispered, still in shock that Buffy had kissed him.

“I don’t know… How about friendly dating?”

“I’d love that.”

“Starting now?”

“Whenever you’d like.”

“Okay, starting now then.”

“Buffy, would I be out of line if…I kissed you? Would it be out of our friendly bounds?”

She answered by kissing him again. They moaned in unison as they explored each other’s mouths for the first time in years. Buffy leaned into him, desperate to keep him close and determined never to let him go.
***

“We did it!” Buffy jumped up from her chair, seeing William. “I told you we would!”

William grinned, picking up her bag and wrapping an arm around her. “We have to hurry, love. The group is having dinner at the restaurant next door. Want me to get you something?”

“Sure.”

“You’re alright with staying in tonight?”

“I’ll take a bath and watch TV until you show up.”

“I may play sick so I can come to you sooner.”

“That would be really nice.” Buffy beamed as he opened the hotel room and held the door open for her. “Oh, wow that’s a big bed.”

“I know,” William said, blushing. He put their suitcases side-by-side. “I’ll be back within the hour.”

“I’ll miss you.”

Smiling, he edged to the door. “Bye, Buffy. I’ll be back.”
***

William smelled the sweet mixture of her soap as soon as he opened the door. “Buffy?”

“You came back soon.”

He came around the corner and gasped, seeing Buffy get into bed with her hair up and in nothing but a colorful pair of panties. “I told them a had the flu…”

“What’d you bring me? It smells good and I’m starving.”

“Pizza. Don’t eat it all because we need to share.”

“Is that what all sick boys eat?”

“Yup.” He put the box on her lap and kicked off his shoes. Quickly, he tossed his jacket and shirt. “Scoot over, pet.”

“You’re going to keep your pants on?”

“Yes.”

“Oh,” Buffy said, handing him a slice of pizza.

“Don’t pout,” he laughed, nudging her side.

“It’s only fair since I’m half naked.”

“But if I take off my pants, I’ll be all the way naked.”

“You don’t wear underwear?” she gasped.

“That’s none of your business, sweetheart.” Looking down shyly, he tossed a few napkins in her direction. “Don’t talk with your mouth full.”

“Yesh, I thought I was wigged out before…”

“The pants are staying on until you take them off.” William laughed as Buffy’s eyes bugged out again. “I’m serious too.”

She closed her eyes as he kissed her temple.

“I got a Coke from downstairs. You want to share it with me?”
***

“It’s getting dark.”

“I’m getting hungry.”

“Pick a place and we’ll have dinner.”

“I say fast food of some sort.”

“Why? I want to take you somewhere nice, Buffy.”

“William, we’re all tearstained and dirty. I don’t care where we go but...”

“You would mind--never mind.”

“What?”

“Nothing.”

“Tell me. Would I mind what?”

“I could cook you something at my place but I don’t know if you’d be interested.”

“You cook?”

“When you’re a bachelor for a long time, you cook or have nothing to eat.”

“I don’t mind.”

“Really?”

She shrugged, “Just as long as you don’t pressure me into sleeping with you.”

“Oh like that would happen,” he laughed.

“You could.”

“And get kicked in the head? I think not.”

“You were always a smart one…while until it came to Harmony.”

“I’m sorry, Buffy.”

“I know.”

“But you’re still going to bug me about it?”

“Of course.”

“Don’t you have a little black book of boys that I could peek at? You must’ve shagged the whole town once I was out of your hair.”

Buffy sat up and reached for her purse.

“Buffy? Did I make you mad at me already? I was joking.”

She put her bag on her shoulder and stepped out of his embrace. “There hasn’t been anyone else for me.” Avoiding his eyes, she held out her hand and helped him to his feet. “It’s been you or no one.”

“Buffy…I can’t…”

“You can’t believe it? I know it’s pathetic but I can’t help it. It’s cliché but I’ve never been able to get you out of my head…you’re always on my mind.”

“Buffy--.”

"Let's not get into it now. I'm not exactly proud of the fact that I'm a sex-starved old maid." Before he could say anything, Buffy pulled him away from the tree. "I'm hungry. What are you making me for dinner, William?"
***

“Pinch me,” Buffy hummed, nuzzling her face against his chest. She giggled as William’s fingers gave her nipple a little tweak. “This is so nice.”

“It is.”

“What are you watching?”

“Nothing really. Just flipping through the channels.”

“Maybe you should turn it off?” she whispered, sitting up and letting the sheet fall to her waist. “It’s late.”

“It’s not really,” William said, swallowing. “It’s still early.”

Blocking his view to the TV, Buffy pulled out the clip that was holding up her hair. “Please turn it off?”

“Okay,” he said softly. Once he pressed the power button on the remote, they were left in darkness. The room was silent except for the loud air conditioner.

“William?”

“Yes, love?”

Buffy settled back under the blankets, draping a leg over William’s body. “If things got serious between us…would we be ready?”

“What do you mean?”

“Well…would we have some sort of…protection?”

“I have condoms, Buffy.”

“Oh, God, really?”

“Yes,” he said, running his fingers over her hair. “It’s best to be prepared…”

“You’re right.”

“And I think I would be ready.”

“No, really?” Buffy teased, giving the muscles of his arms light touches.

“What about you?”

“Maybe.”

“Maybe?”

“Definitely maybe but it would be a shame to let this opportunity go to waste, right? I mean, we’re all alone and horny kids should never be left alone.”

“True,” he chuckled.

Resting her face on her hands, Buffy smiled up at him. “And it would be a memorable birthday present, don’t you think?”

“The best.” He cupped her face and Buffy wiggled up until their lips could touch.

“But then, it’s not your birthday yet,” she said between kisses.

“Sod the date.”

“That word is still so funny.”

William continued to kiss her, rolling her on her back and covering her body with his. “No matter what, it’s up to you.”

Buffy hissed as he made a wet trail to her breasts. “Wow…”

“Is this okay?” he asked, licking her nipple with the tip of his tongue.

“Oh, yeah.”

“You taste good, pet. Thought you’d be soapy.”

“William,” she groaned, threading her fingers in his hair. “Watch where you’re going…”

“I plan to.”

“William--that’s not what I meant!”

“Let me, Buffy. Please?”

“But…”

“It’ll feel good.”

“Did you know what you plan on doing…down there?”

“Nope,” he smirked, getting closer to her underwear. “I just want you moaning.”

“You don’t need to be down there for that to happen.”

“If you don’t like it, I’ll stop. Say no or kick me and we’ll go back to cuddling.”

“You mean it?”

“You have my word, Buffy.”

“Sure you don’t know what you’re going to do?” Buffy whimpered as he pulled down her underwear.

“I’m going to touch you.” William slid a hand between her thighs, trying to part where she had them glued together. “I’m going to show you that I love every inch of you.”

“You aren’t nervous?”

William picked up one of her hands and put it on his heart. “I’m terrified but very excited.”

“Me too.”

“Just kick me,” he reminded, kissing the top of her hand before spreading her legs.
***
 

Chapter 11

“You’ve never?”

“No. Is that weird?”

“I’m not sure.”

Buffy gasped as the tip of William’s finger slipped inside of her. “I thought only boys touched themselves. I pretty much ignore down there.”

“How does it feel?”

“Weird.”

William moved to lie at her side. “Just relax and if something feels good, tell me and I’ll keep going.”

Buffy nodded, holding on to his free arm as he slowly explored her depths. Minutes later she was squirming, finding it natural to move her hips in time with his hand. “William,” she hissed, pushing her forehead into his shoulder. “Stay there please. Oh my God.” She closed her eyes tight, surprised that he seemed to know exactly what to do as he made long strokes that rubbed against her clit and ended with shallow pokes into her opening. “Oh God.”

“Tell me what to do, Buffy.”

“Oh--just don’t stop. Oh God--William!” She squeezed his arm hard as her body arched and started to spasm. “Oh, oh,” she managed to say while breathing heavy. Rolling over, she pulled William close, wanting him to hold her until her breathing was steady again.

“I’m guessing that was good?”

“That was…I see why you’re locked in your room all the time.”

Laughing, William kissed her face and ran his fingers down her spine. “I’ll have you converted in no time. You’ll never leave your room when we get home.”

Buffy smiled, brushing her lips against his. “I don’t know about that, maybe I’d just lock myself in your room.” She hummed as their kissing continued. No longer feeling self-conscious about her nude body, she wove her bare legs with his clothed ones. “God, I love you.”

“Buffy,” he moaned, once his erection had become unbearable. “You’d better stop wiggling on me like that.”

“Oh, sorry. You okay?”

“No, I feel like I could die, Buffy.”

“Oh, eh, is this the part where I face my fear?” Biting her lip, she looked at the front of his pants. “It hurts?”

“The zipper is…uncomfortable.”

“I guess it would be unfair if I didn’t…but when I pass out, don’t be offended.”

“Buffy, you don’t--.”

“Shhh.” She took a deep breath before unbuttoning the clasp of his jeans. “Happy early birthday, William.”
***

“I’ll try to throw something together. If I had known in advance, you’d have a four course meal waiting for you.” William unlocked the door and let Buffy walk in first. “Can I take your jacket?”

“No, thank you.” Buffy didn’t want to stare as William took off his coat, revealing the tight shirt that he was wearing underneath, so she looked at the interior of his home. “This house, it’s...it looks bigger than it ever did before.”

“That’s because it’s practically empty,” he smirked. “I have only a few belongings so I decided to spread everything out to at least kill the echo.”

“If you need some junk, I have a garage full of stuff. I bet just Dawn’s stuff alone could pack this place to the max.”

“No, no, less is better. This way when things get too dusty, I can just blow on a few items instead of having to actually get out a rag and polish. It won’t look too dirty.”

“If you say so. You were always trying to get out of doing chores.”

“Unless I had something to buy and I wanted the money,” William shrugged, guiding Buffy into the kitchen. “Take a seat.”

“Do you own real plates and silverware?”

“Yes.” He opened a cabinet and pointed. “Ha, pet.”

“How often do you use them?”

“Hardly ever,” he said in the same proud tone. “Looky here.” As he gathered ingredients from the nearly vacant pantry, he showed off a mountain of paper and plastic eating utensils.

“Cute, William.”

He grinned, “You knew I had them.”

“Yup.” Buffy tapped her fingernails on the counter and swung her feet as they hung from the barstool. “This is neat.”

“What is?”

“The new and improved kitchen. It’s nice. Very different from how I remember it. Your house is always changing and mine is always...not.”

“Not changing can be just as good. I like that home stays constant.”

“You see my house as home?”

“Yes,” he said. “I could even quote a Hallmark card by saying that home is wherever you are...but I won’t.”

Buffy felt her cheeks get rosy. “Good because that would be corny.”

“You’re right. Try this?” William turned pointing a wooden spoon at her and cupped his hand underneath it to catch any sauce that might fall. Buffy wrinkled her nose slightly and gave him a suspicious look. “God, Buffy. Try it.”

“Don’t spill any stuff on me, I’ll kick your ass.” Feeling awkward, she opened her mouth and let him spoon-feed her. “Mmmm,” she licked her lips and started to wipe her face but William was faster, brushing her upper lip with the pad of his thumb. “Um...”

“I made a mess.”

Their eyes met shyly as he caressed her cheek.

“William...”

“Sorry.”

“This is weird.”

“I missed this.”

Buffy smiled, putting her hand on his and kissing his nearest finger. “Me too.”
***

She continued to kiss him, trying to ignore his open fly. Making her way down his neck, she caught a glimpse of his penis as it curled against his stomach. Gasping at his size, she felt her heart speed up.

“Buffy, you okay? Don’t look so afraid, love.”

“I’m not.”

“You lie.” He rolled her on her back and searched her face. “Give me your hand?”

“Why?”

“I want to...maybe it’ll make you more comfortable? It could be a stupid idea but,” he stroked her hand and kissed her cheek, “I know you always make me feel better. Maybe I could have that affect on you too?”

Buffy couldn’t help but smile, touched by his hopeful expression. "You do, William. You make me feel so..." She struggled to think of the perfect word and gave up. “I just love you very much.”

“I love you too.” He threaded their fingers and inched them closer to his pending erection.

“Do you think you could just guide me in the right direction?” she whispered. “I need...um, guidance.”

He nodded, pressing her hand between the open zipper of his pants. “Stay calm, Buffy.”

“You’re the one who looks like he’s going to explode.”

“I hope so,” he joked. His soft chuckling coming to an end as Buffy ran her fingers down the length of him. “Not so bad, right?”

“Not so bad.” Taking a deep breath, she pulled his pants down his hips. “Like I imagined...but uh, bigger but still reddish and...it’s throbby, right?” When he didn’t answer, she continued to experimentally touch him and marvel at how he fit in her hand. “I’m kinda wondering if you’ll fit inside of me...” Buffy’s eyes grew wide, feeling him twitch at her confession.

“Buffy,” he pleaded in a deep voice. “Let me...” William covered her hand with his and showed her how he wanted to be touched. “Please?”

“Okay.” With her hand circled, she moved up and down his shaft. His moans and groans encouraged her, letting her give in to curiosity. Her free set of fingers ran over all the skin they could reach, spending most of their time at his inner thighs. “How am I doing?” she asked, moving down to reach him better and allowing her warm breath to blow against his abdomen.

“Very...nicely.”

Buffy smirked while placing soft kisses around his bellybutton, proud of herself and her newfound ability to make William squirm and babble. This is kinda fun, she realized silently as he began thrusting into her hand. Once his body tensed, she looked up at him, ready to ask if he was okay, but her attention was brought back between his legs. “Oh,” she said, struggling to keep her stroking constant as he started to come.

“Buffy.” William pulled her up once the spurting stopped and used a corner of the sheet to carefully wipe off her stomach. He called her name again and brought her against his chest. “Oh, love...”

She listened to his fast heartbeat as he stroked her hair and covered them with blankets.

“You aren’t talking to me.”

“That was messy.”

“What?”

Buffy snuggled into his side and looked up at him. “But not bad, fun even.”

“Really?”

“Yup.”

“Good.” He grinned and gave her a quick kiss. “That was the best birthday present ever.”

“Is it past midnight?”

He nodded, looking at the glowing red digital clock. “Just a tad.”

“All that, and your birthday hasn’t even started.” She kissed him again and deeper than before. “Yum...”

“You tired, Buffy?”

“A little. How about you?”

“I could sleep.”

“Okay,” she yawned. “When do you need to leave tomorrow?”

“By noon.”

“Oh, that’ll give us plenty of time.”

“To do what, Buffy?”

“Oh, I think we’ll come up with something.” Smiling, she rolled on her side.

“I love you, Buffy.”

“Mmmm, love you too.” She wiggled back as he curled up against her back. “So much...”
***

“Sorry, about the lack of table.”

“This works.” Buffy twirled the spaghetti on her fork and took her first bite of the homemade meal. “I like eating on the floor and coffee table is a great little table.”

“You like it?”

“It’s very good. Yummy.” She caught his eye and smiled before eating more. “I was starving.”

“Sorry that I kept you out too long.”

“Next time we’ll bring a snack.”

“Next time. I’m looking forward to that.”

There was an awkward silence and they both played with their food.

“So...why did you become a counselor?”

“Mom. I filled in and then they kept me around. It’s crazy because I’m not exactly qualified but the kids like talking to someone younger and so far I haven’t received any complaints.”

“You use those damn leaflets? I hated those things.”

Buffy smiled widely, “Sometimes. They’re very...informative and effective.”

“Sure, because they totally changed our minds,” William laughed. “A week later I was saving my pennies for condoms and not the latest best-selling novel. I couldn’t have cared less about my bloody book collection.”

“Well, we never did drugs, right? There’s one win for mom and her informational packets.”

“True, true. Never got you pregnant either which was against the odds with all of that award-winning, mind-blowing shagging that went on.”

“Are you trying to make me blush?”

“Just giving a friendly reminder, I guess.”

“William, there’s no way in hell that I could forget. What do you think gets me through the night? I still think about you before I go to sleep. Every night.”

“Buffy...”

“Oops.” She felt unseen muscles between her legs respond to his voice. “I said too much. Now I’m really blushing.” She put down her fork to rub her warm cheeks. “Let’s talk about something else. Anything.”

“It is unbelievably flattering to hear you say such things about me.”

“Well, it would be different if I wasn’t so unbelievably in love with you. I thought it’d die down eventually but nope, I’m still head over heels.”

“Pet, those aren’t words to tell a guy you just want to be friends with. It could put the wrong idea into my head...it could make do the unthinkable.”

“Such as?”

“Carry you upstairs and never let you go. Make love to you for ages to compensate for lost time.”

“That,” Buffy pushed her plate away, not able to eat any more, “would be moving too fast. Way...way too fast.”

“You’re right.”

“Maybe I should go now?” With her plate and empty cup in hand, she started to get up. “There’s no way we can go back to causal conversation now.” On her way to the kitchen sink, she was not surprised to hear William walking behind her. “I’ll see you tomorrow though.”

“You’re right,” he muttered again, under his breath.

“Thank you for dinner and —and everything.”

“Thanks for not kicking me.”

Buffy swallowed, walking away to get her purse. Before she could get out the front door, William was there and opening it for her.

“I won’t mess this up, Buffy. I want you back and when you are—when you’re mine again—I’m not letting you go, I swear it. You’ll be my girl.”

Buffy took a deep breath and went through the screen door. When it slammed shut, she turned and put her hand on the divider between them. “Haven’t you been listening to me, William? I am yours.” He tried to open the door but when Buffy shook her head, he put his hand against hers. Even with the screen, Buffy could feel the warmth of his palm. “I’ve always been your girl.”

“Buffy, wait--.”

“No.” She turned on her heel and gasped as William stopped her halfway across the street. “Please...it’s too soon.”

“To do what?” he said, bringing her close. “Just let me kiss you goodnight, pet.”

“Okay.”

“Thank God,” he laughed softly, teasingly brushing their lips together and causing them both to moan. “I would’ve died, my love.”

“You’re so dramatic.”

“I’ll be around first thing in the morning.”

“I’m looking forward to it.”

“I wish we still lived together. Hell, I wish I could have you in my bed tonight. It’ll be bloody painful knowing that you’re thinking about me too.”

“Too soon.”

“I know. What are my chances for tomorrow?”

“Slim to none.”

“Darn,” he chuckled, nuzzling her cheek with his nose. “I should let you go...”

“You should.”

“It’s hard.”

“It’ll be okay, William.”

“You sure?” he teased.

“Yes.” Buffy stroked his cheek before pushing him away. “I love you, William.”

“Love you more, sweetheart. Let me walk you to the door?”

“Alright.” She let him take her hand and they walked slowly the rest of the way to her house.

“I doubt you have to look for your keys, kitten. We’re being watched. There’s a nosy little sister at eleven o’clock.” William waved towards the window and there was movement behind the curtain.

“You want to come in?”

“No, I’m sure you have gossip to tell Dawn. But if you get lonely tonight...”

“Your bed will be the first one I’m hopping into.”

William beamed, knowing that she was teasing but he didn’t care as he gave her cheek one last kiss. “Nighty night, Buffy.”
***

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