Chapter 1 – Take One For the Team


“No!” Buffy cried, staring at her friend as if she had lost her mind. “No, Willow, absolutely not!”

“Come on, Buffy,” Willow said in a pleading voice. “It’s for a good cause.”

“You have got to be kidding me!? It’s archaic and…and antifeminist,” she finished, jutting her chin out defiantly.

“Buffy,” Willow said, losing her patience. “You’ve been in how many beauty pageants, and you’re talking about feminism?”

“That is so not the same thing,” Buffy replied, throwing her fork down on her tray. “And besides, I was a lot younger then. That was my Mom’s decision, not mine. I haven’t been in one in over five years.”

“Buffy, Auction Day is a week away and there aren’t enough girls in it. We need more volunteers, and I told the committee that I had someone who’s interested.”

“Well, tell the committee you were wrong.”

“I’m going to do it,” she said with a hopeful expression.

“If there aren’t enough girls, why don’t they just ask some guys?” Buffy asked, looking around the lunchroom of the exclusive Sunnydale Academy.

“That’s not the way it works, Buffy,” Willow said with a raised eyebrow.

“Yeah,” Buffy replied. “And you know why? Because the Board of Directors or whoever puts on this stupid auction is probably a bunch of sexist men who want to see women auctioned off like cattle.”

“Actually, it’s a group of women who feel strongly about the tradition of the school,” Willow shot back with a raised eyebrow. “Why don’t you tell me what’s really bothering you?”

“It’s just…it’s not a date auction, Wills. This thing…you have to be a slave for a week to whatever jerk turns out to be the highest bidder. You have no say in the matter and it’s just…aren’t you a little nervous?”

“No,” Willow replied, shaking her head. “And that was a nice try, but now tell me the real reason.”

Reaching for her fork, Buffy began stabbing at the food that was left on her plate before letting her eyes wander around the cafeteria. They finally came to rest on Spike Lawson. He was sitting with his friends, a bored expression on his handsome face as he seemed to be zoning in and out of their conversation. She saw him smile at something as everyone else at the table began laughing. The girls seemed to be holding a conversation, probably talking about whatever they happened to buy on their latest trip to the mall, while most of the guys watched them with false interest.

Buffy sighed as she turned her attention back to Willow. “What if no one bids on me?” she asked softly.

Willow’s eyes softened as she smiled at her friend. “Don’t be ridiculous, Buffy. I’m sure the guys would be lined up to bid on you.”

“Yeah,” she said with a scoff. “They’ll be lined up to bid on poor little Buffy.”

“Buffy…”

“No, don’t say it,” Buffy said shaking her head. “I’ll do it.”

Willow smiled at her pouting friend. “Thank you, Buffy, you won’t regret this! And all of the profits go to charity, so it will be worth it.”

“If you say so,” she replied doubtfully.

“Come on,” Willow said excitedly as she grabbed her friend’s hand and dragged her out of her chair. “We have a few minutes before the bell rings- let’s go get you signed up.”

“Wonderful,” Buffy said grudgingly as she allowed herself to be dragged from the lunchroom.

* * * * *

Ten minutes later, Buffy and Willow walked out of the office as the bell rang.

“This will be great,” Willow said with an excited hop. “And you’re excused from our schoolwork the week of the auction.”

“Willow, you do realize we’re excused because whatever slave-driver happens to ‘buy’ us will be working us too hard to get anything else done.”

“It won’t be like that,” Willow said with a skeptical look.

“You can’t honestly be this clueless about what we just signed on for,” Buffy said, raising an eyebrow at her friend. “These are high school boys who aren’t big with wanting to do the courteous thing and be nice to us.” She groaned when she saw Spike standing in front of her. “Case in point…”

“I’ll see you after school, Buffy,” Willow said with a smile as she left Buffy alone with the one person she really shouldn’t be alone with.

“So,” he said with a smirk. “Buffy Summers is going to be in the auction, is she?”

“I’m sure you’ve already got girls begging you to bid on them,” she said with an air of indifference as she tried to ignore the stab of jealousy that coursed through her body. “What do you care if I’m in it?” Buffy asked, walking around him as he turned around to walk with her.

“Just wondering who would want you for a week,” Spike replied as she turned to face him, leveling him with cold eyes. She should have known. Spike Lawson would never want a simple conversation with her- he only wanted to trade insults, and Buffy wasn’t about to disappoint him.

“Gee, Spike,” she replied, widening her eyes to give her a more innocent appearance. “I guess it’s a good thing that they didn’t want men to be in it or you wouldn’t even be able to qualify.”

“Oh, believe me, Summers, I am more than qualified,” he said with a smirk. “Never had any complaints before.”

“Yeah,” Buffy said, rolling her eyes. “I’m also willing to bet that you’ve never had anyone who could recognize her own name, much less know whether she’s got a good thing or not.”

“You wanting to find out?” Spike asked, raising an eyebrow and biting his bottom lip as he watched her in amusement.

“Has it ever occurred to you to think with a different part of your anatomy?”

“Why should I do that?” he asked with a chuckle. “When I have so much more fun this way.” Buffy watched as he turned away from her and began walking down the hallway. “Don’t worry, Summers,” he called over his shoulder. “I’m sure you’ll get someone great. I hear the new guy Andrew has a thing for you.”

Buffy could hear the smile in his voice as she glared after him. Leaning against a wall, she ran her hands through her hair. “How did I let Willow talk me into this?”
 

Chapter 2 – A Potential Buyer


Slowly walking toward the Bronze later that night, Buffy looked around at the shadows that were cast on the streets of Sunnydale. They offered her a sort of comfort that she had never found anywhere else andhe reveled in the solace that it provided.

Ever since her father had moved out three years ago when Buffy was fifteen, her life had been altered. She hadn’t seen or heard from him since he left on that fateful day, and her mother had been saddled with everything he’d run away from.

After selling their house and moving into a modest two-bedroom apartment in the low-income side of town, Joyce had begun to worry about Buffy. Although she had been in public school at Sunnydale High and was happy and well-adjusted, they still had to pay more money than the Summers’ women had available. A few months after her father’s departure, she had taken it upon herself to apply for scholarships from Sunnydale Academy. No one was more surprised than when she got a full-ride from the school. Covering everything from her books to her uniforms, Joyce had cried when she heard what her daughter had sacrificed to help her family, even though Buffy assured her that the ‘sacrifices’ were minimal.

Buffy had learned who her true friends were after switching schools. Or friend, as the case may be. Xander Harris was the only one who bothered to make an effort to keep their friendship. Everyone else had dropped her once her father had abandoned her, leaving them destitute.

On Buffy’s first day at the Academy two years ago, she’d been fortunate enough to meet Willow and formed an instant friendship with the friendly redhead. Unfortunately, Buffy also had the misfortune of meeting Spike and getting on his bad side, no sooner than she’d walked through the door of the school.

Spike had taken one look at the little blonde and thrown that annoyingly sexy smirk her way before asking her if she wanted to slip into an empty classroom and have some fun. Now, in the middle of their senior year, Buffy would have expected nothing less from the peroxide pest, but since that was the first thing he’d ever said to her, she had immediately retaliated, letting him know that she had no interest in a Billy Idol wannabe.

Unfortunately, a small part of her had really wanted to take him up on his offer, but their first interaction had laid the groundwork for their current relationship of snapping at each other, followed by smug responses.

Buffy could hear the soft, straining notes of the music flowing out of the club as she got closer. Subconsciously, she adjusted her black skirt and straightened the simple white halter-top as she walked through the darkened alley. She was meeting Willow and Xander, who had developed their own friendship thanks to Buffy.

Scanning the crowded club, she recognized several students from both schools but ignored the vast majority. It seemed to be split down the center- those who had abandoned her and those who never got to know her to begin with. She could see her friends sitting at their usual table, talking and laughing with each other. She also saw Spike shamelessly flirting with two girls at a nearby table. Another flash of jealousy went through her, but she stamped it down and chose to ignore the angled cheekbones, piercing blue eyes, and full lips as she walked by.

Spike raised his eyes from the two women he was talking to, tilting his head slightly when he saw Buffy walking by, obviously ignoring him. He couldn’t help the smirk that played out on his features as he watched her. His tongue darted out to dance along his bottom lip as she walked to the next table and rewarded her friends with a bright smile. Spike’s eyes darkened at the realization that he had never been on the receiving end of that smile, but he quickly shrugged off the feeling as he turned his attention back to the women.

* * * * *

Buffy had managed to avoid Spike for the last hour. Truth be told, Spike had avoided her since she was never the one to seek him out, but she was having fun with her friends, and it felt good to relax and have a good time.

“Excuse me,” a soft voice said, causing Buffy to turn around and smile at the boy who looked vaguely familiar. “I’m Owen Thurman.”

Buffy nodded in recognition, remembering that this was the newest student at the Academy. “I’m Buffy Summers,” she said with a friendly smile. “This is Willow Rosenberg and Xander Harris,” she continued, gesturing to her friends as Owen gave them each a nervous nod in greeting.

“Um…I was wondering if you’d want to dance,” Owen asked with a shy quality that she found endearing.

“Sure,” Buffy said, hopping down from the tall seat as Owen smiled in relief. He led her to the dance floor, his hand on the small of her back as they walked to the middle of the floor. She turned around, reaching up to put her arms around his neck, surprised at how tall he was.

“How long have you lived here?” Owen asked, a nervous tremor in his voice as he loosely gripped her waist.

“A while,” she said with a shrug. “I’ve been at the Academy for two years now, but I’ve been in Sunnydale a lot longer. What about you?”

“I’m from San Francisco…just moved here.”

Buffy nodded, stepping a little closer to him as the slow song continued. She refrained from laying her head on his chest, not wanting to give him the wrong impression, but she did let her eyes wander around the club as she was slowly danced in a small circle. Her eyes widened when they came to rest on Spike and saw his gaze fixed on her.

Narrowing her eyes in confusion as Spike quickly turned away, Buffy inwardly shrugged as she continued their dance. When the song ended, she took a step back, giving Owen a soft thank you before making her way back to her seat. She was surprised when her path was blocked by a tall man in black.

“I’ve missed you, Buff.”

Buffy looked up, rolling her eyes as she sighed. “Can’t say that I’ve missed you, Angel,” she said, shaking her head.

“Aaah, now that’s no fun,” he said in a playful tone as she took a step around him. “When are we gonna have some more fun, baby?”

“Let’s try the day after never,” she said with a fake smile. “Now, if you’ll excuse me…”

Buffy quickly walked back to her friends as they gave her sympathetic looks.

“Don’t look at me like that,” Buffy said, taking her seat. “I’m over him…no…I never needed to get over him.”

And it was true. She’d met Liam Angelus soon after transferring schools. He was a freshman at UC-Sunnydale and had pursued her relentlessly. Buffy had enjoyed spending time with him but had made the mistake of letting things go too far one night. The morning after, Angel had changed drastically, telling her that it was a good time but not a big deal. She had been heartbroken, not because of his rejection, but because she’d slept with a man who she didn’t want to be with.

Getting over Angel would have been fairly easy, except he began showing up everywhere she was, frequently at the Bronze. Joyce had pushed for a restraining order on the man, but Buffy insisted she could handle it. Angel eventually lost his fascination with her, but he still enjoyed surprising her from time to time.

“Come on, guys,” Buffy said with a bright smile as a fast-paced song came on. “Let’s dance.”

She dragged Willow and Xander out on the floor, throwing her arms up in the air and swaying her hips to the beat of the music. She laughed with her friends, enjoying the chance to relax and have a good time, not having to worry about the stupid auction, considering this time next week she would be ‘owned’ by someone.

Buffy looked over and saw Willow intently staring at the stage. Turning around, her eyes strayed from the guitarist to Willow and secretly smiled at her friend. “He’s a cutie, isn’t he?” she called to her over the loud music. Willow blushed, looking at the ground, but Buffy could see the nod. Motioning to Xander that they would be right back, she grabbed Willow’s hand and led her to the front of the stage as the music stopped, giving the band a break. “Oz!” Buffy yelled, getting his attention before he walked off the stage.

“Buffy,” he nodded in greeting.

“I wanted you to meet my friend Willow,” she said, shoving the blushing redhead in front of her and seeing Oz’s eyes light up. “Oz and I went to school together at Sunnydale High. He’s in college now,” she explained as Oz hopped off the stage. “You two have fun.”

Before Willow could turn around in protest, Buffy was halfway across the floor. Seeing Xander getting something to drink at the bar, she headed toward him, only to be intercepted by a leather-clad Spike. She tried not to let her eyes wander the lines of his body beneath the black duster, but they seemed to have other ideas. Too often, she saw him in the khaki pants and white button-down shirt or white sweater that the school required. The duster gave him an edge that nothing else would be able to capture, especially the maroon blazer and coats that the school provided, which Spike refused to wear.

Seeing his eyes traveling up and down her body, Buffy felt a feminine thrill rush through her but ignored it as she looked at him. “Can I help you?” she asked with a raised eyebrow.

“Are you offering?” he asked with a smirk.

“What do you want, Spike?” Buffy replied, not bothering to take him seriously.

“I have to have a reason to talk to you, Summers?”

“You? I’m thinking…yes,” she said, walking by him as he turned with her.

“I saw you talking to your sweetie-bear,” he said with a grin. “Rejecting you again, was he?”

Buffy turned around as fire flashed in her eyes. “You know nothing about me, so why don’t you stay out of my life? Just go away.”

“Why should I do that when it’s obviously bothering you so much to have me here?”

“You know what, Spike?” Buffy replied, turning to face him. “The more I get to know you, the more I wish I didn’t.”

Spike watched as Buffy turned and walked away from him, unable to stop himself from admiring her as she left.
 

Chapter 3 – Going Once…Going Twice…


The morning of the auction arrived, and Buffy’s stomach was tied into knots before her first class of the day. The auction wouldn’t start until that night. It was part of a bake-sale fundraiser, complete with game booths surrounding the exterior of the school.

The object was to get the parents and students to the school to watch the highlight of the night- the auction. However, that wouldn’t take place until later on, so to bide their time, they could wander around the festival.

Walking down the hallway of the school, Buffy clutched her books to her chest as she looked for Willow. She was having serious second thoughts about what she had gotten herself into and was needing the reassurance of her best friend.

“Hi, Buffy.”

Turning around, Buffy smiled at the shy boy who was waving at her. “Hi, Andrew,” she replied, quickening her pace. ‘Oh my God,’ she thought. ‘What if he does want to bid on me?’

“Sweet-talking your prospects, Summers?”

“And so my day is complete,” she muttered, turning to face Spike with a glare. “What do you want?”

“It was just a simple question,” Spike said with a smirk. “What’s the matter? Having doubts?”

Spike felt a brief flash of remorse at the panic that crossed her face, but held it at bay.

“You know what, Spike? Even if Andrew does bid on me, it would be better than some of the morons you hang out with. I would much rather be his slave for a week, than yours.”

“Would you, now?” he asked, a wicked smile coming across his features as an idea began to form at the mention of ‘slave’. “We’ll see.”

Buffy’s eyes widened as Spike turned away before grabbing his arm. “What do you mean, ‘we’ll see’?”

“You’re awfully jumpy today, Summers. You should switch to decaf. Actually,” Spike continued, turning around to look at her, tilting his head as he looked down at the small girl. “You may want to lay off the coffee altogether. I hear it stunts your growth, and you don’t need any help in that department.”

Spike chuckled at the glare on Buffy’s face before he turned and walked down the hallway. Swallowing a scream of frustration, she whirled around to walk in the opposite direction.

“What’s wrong?” Willow asked, running over to her friend in concern when she saw the anger on Buffy’s face.

“Spike,” she spat out as if it left a bad taste in her mouth.

“What did he do now?” Willow asked.

“Just being his normal, annoyingly smart-ass self.”

“Oh,” Willow said, not seeing anything out of the ordinary. “So, are you ready for tonight?”

Buffy turned the glare on her best friend as Willow looked at her in surprise.

“What?”

* * * * *

The day seemed to fly by and creep along at the same time. Every time Buffy looked at a clock, it seemed that more time had been swept by. On the other hand, the amount of time in between she looked at a clock seemed to creep by. Now, as she was sitting with the other girls from both Sunnydale High and Sunnydale Academy behind the makeshift auction stage, she wished for any of those minutes back.

Actually, if she was wishing, she wished that she’d never agreed to this in the first place. The auction had started a few minutes ago, and Buffy was one of the last girls to go to the stage. Willow was thankfully in front of her, offering her support the entire time.

Listening as the auctioneer Mr. Giles took bids for Cordelia Chase, Buffy’s eyes widened as the bidding escalated.

“Going once…going twice…sold for one hundred and fifty dollars.”

“Cordy got that much?!” she hissed at her friend. “I’ll be lucky if I get the minimum bid.”

“Buffy, don’t be ridiculous,” Willow said in reassurance. “You’ll have plenty of bids. This is for charity and there are plenty of guys out there from both schools- that’s the only reason it’s so high.”

“Easy for you to say,” she muttered. “You’ve got Oz out there, willing to spend whatever it takes. Everyone will be out of money before they get to me, and I’ll have to be donated.”

“Cheer up, B,” Faith Lehane said from behind her. “I’m going after you and I’m not worried. We’re two of the hottest chicks in the school. You’ll do fine.”

Buffy finally let a small smile come over her face as she looked at the two girls. “Sorry I’m being such a brat.”

“You’re just nervous,” Willow replied, patting her shoulder. “It’s normal.”

Ten minutes later, after Willow was ‘purchased’ by Oz for ninety-five dollars, Buffy took a deep breath as she walked onto the stage. Faith gave her a small pat on the back before shoving her through the curtain.

* * * * *

Spike watched at the back of the crowd as Buffy appeared to be pushed through the curtain. He and his friends had been having a good time, bidding on some of the girls but never really seriously. His friend Doyle had bought his crush Cordelia, but he was the only successful winner of the night.

Now, as Spike looked at the shy girl on the stage, he tilted his head to study her. She was in a pair of black pants and a silky, pale blue sleeveless top that brought out the golden highlights in her hair. Her eyes were darting around as if she was looking for something to focus on but couldn’t find it. Spike was planning on bidding on her a few times to see what her reaction would be if she thought he was seriously going to win, but watching her nervously wring her hands together, he took pity on her and backed out of his plan.

Spike was surprised after Giles announced Buffy that his friends began cheering loudly for the little blonde. No one from his group of friends had ever gone out with her, and, as far as Spike knew, never wanted to. However, now that he was hearing the other guys in the crowd, he felt a jealous sensation wash over him as Buffy smiled shyly at the audience.

“We’ll start the bidding at twenty dollars,” Giles announced into the microphone.

“Twenty!” an excited Andrew yelled, jumping up and down.

Spike smirked at the young boy as he crossed his arms over his chest.

“Twenty-five,” another boy yelled.

Spike’s eyes scanned the audience as the bidding increased, with Andrew battling everyone who dared outbid him. Spike felt it oddly comforting that the boy would be the inevitable winner, since he was probably prepared to spend his lifesavings. After all, what would he make Buffy do? He would probably end up doing things for her.

Spike saw Buffy’s eyes widen when the bidding reached over a hundred dollars. She obviously didn’t expect that much, and the red flush that tinted her cheeks was suddenly very endearing to Spike.

The bidding continued with several members, the key being Andrew as he shouted out every bid to the point where even Giles was flustered at how high it was going. Spike listened as it peaked over two hundred. Sure, Buffy was cute, but Spike never would have expected this. Then again, she rarely went out with anyone but her friends.

‘Unless you count that ponce, Angel,’ Spike thought. ‘I guess these guys want to buy what they can’t have.’

The bidding tapered off at two hundred and fifty dollars, with Andrew in the lead, before another voice spoke up.

“Three hundred.”

Everyone in the audience turned to see the new guy Owen Thurman holding up a fistful of cash. Spike felt jealousy spread through him as Buffy’s eyes seemed to light up at the new bidder.

Andrew frantically counted his money before turning back to the stage. “Three seventy-eight!” he announced with hope and despair in his voice, obviously emptying out his wallet as he waited.

“Four hundred,” Owen called out.

Spike turned his eyes to Andrew, waiting for his next move. Andrew turned to his friend Jonathan, whispering frantically before he was handed some money. “Four twenty-five,” he announced in a victorious voice.

For Buffy’s part, she looked like she was going to pass out. “Four forty,” Owen replied, causing Andrew’s face to fall. Spike crossed his arms over his chest as he looked at the new guy, feeling angry at him for reasons he didn’t understand.

“Four forty going once…twice…”

“Five hundred.”

Every person in the audience seemed to turn around to look at Spike as he locked eyes with Buffy. Her mouth dropped open as she stared at him through wide eyes.

“Five hundred once…twice…sold to Spike Lawson for five hundred dollars,” Giles announced, taking off his glasses in disbelief.

Spike looked down at the ground, not believing what he just did. “What the hell just happened?” he muttered.

Buffy slowly walked off the stage, in shock. “What the hell just happened?”

 

Chapter 4 – A Nightmare Come True


Making her way through the crowd, Buffy stopped in front of Spike as she stared at him, stunned. Spike managed to regain his composure as he looked at her, letting a smirk slowly play on his lips.

“What’s the matter, luv?”

Grabbing his arm, she dragged him to a more secluded area before turning to face him. “How…what…why?”

“You seem a little spooked, pet. Is something wrong?”

“Don’t play dumb with me, Spike. What the hell happened a minute ago?”

“I bought myself a gift,” he said with a chuckle.

“I’m not your damn gift,” Buffy hissed in a heated whisper.

“Oh, that’s right…I forgot- you’re my slave.”

“Oh God,” she muttered, dropping her head into her hands before pushing her hair away from her face as she looked at him again. “Why would you spend five hundred dollars on a girl you hate?”

“I never said I hated you, Summers. You’re just challenging.” Buffy glared at Spike as he gave her a wide smile. “Well, if you’ll excuse me, I’ll just go pay my bill. Oh, and Summers,” Spike said, turning around as he walked away. “Don’t go far…I might need you to bring me something to drink in a few minutes.”

Spike walked away with a laugh as Buffy glared after him. “Great,” she said to herself as she nodded her head. “This is just great.”

* * * * *

‘Bloody brilliant, you ponce,’ Spike thought as he sought out Buffy a few minutes later. ‘Bid on the girl who has the ability to drive you crazy, and for what? So she can do a few things for you this week?’

Spike smiled. Of course it would be fun thinking of new tasks. And she didn’t so much drive him crazy as be infuriatingly cute when she argued with him.

Searching the crowd, he spotted her talking and laughing. As he got closer, he realized she was openly flirting with the buffoon who had tried to outbid Andrew.

“Thanks for trying, Owen,” he heard Buffy say as he got closer to her, noticing her flirty smile when he reached her. “You really shouldn’t have gone so high.”

“It’s only money,” Owen said with a shrug. “It would have been worth it. Um…but I was actually wondering if you’d want to go out tomorrow night?”

Spike felt anger cloud his vision as he stepped closer to the couple, coming to stand behind Buffy. “Actually, mate,” he said with an evil smirk. “She’s going to be busy tomorrow night.”

Buffy turned to glare at Spike before giving Owen an apologetic look. “Maybe next week, alright?”

Owen gave a small nod before saying good-bye.

“Rude much?” Buffy commented as she started to walk away.

“I just bid a lot of money on you, Summers,” Spike said angrily. “I expect you to be the perfect little slave for the next week.”

“Just what I’ve always dreamed of,” she said sarcastically. “Being stuck with a Neanderthal for an entire week. Having to wait on you when all I really want to do is…”

“What’s the matter, sweetheart? Wanna hit me?”

“Spike-”

“Come on,” Spike egged her on with a grin. “Do something about it. Hit me. One good swing. You know you want to,” he finished with an excited hop, loving the way her face was turning red.

“I mean it,” she said in a firm voice.

“So do I. Give it to me good, Buffy. Do it!”

The tension seemed to escalate as they stared at each other. “Spike...”

“You know you want it.”

Before Buffy had time to think, her fist flew directly into Spike’s unsuspecting nose. “OW! Bloody hell!” he yelled, his hand immediately going to his face. “You almost broke my sodding nose!”

Staring at him in surprise for a moment, she couldn’t help it as a very unladylike snort came from her before she completely broke down in a laughing fit.

“It’s not bleedin’ funny, Summers!” Spike yelled.

“Oh, come on, you big baby,” she said, grabbing her stomach as she nearly collapsed before standing to her full height and taking on a horrible English accent. “Give it to me good, Buffy. Do it!”

Buffy erupted in giggles again as Spike glared at her.

“I’m going to make you pay for this- you know that, right?” he asked, practically growling as he looked at her. She shrugged with a sigh, smiling slightly as he wiped away the blood that was trickling down from his nostrils. “I can’t say I expected you to have that strong of a punch, Goldilocks.”

“Yeah, well, there are all kinds of things you don’t know about me,” she said, crossing her arms and tilting her head.

“Is that an invitation to find out what I don’t know?” he asked, managing a small smirk despite the fact that his nose was in excruciating pain. She narrowed her eyes.

“I don’t want to let you in on any bit of my life,” she said. “I’m your ‘slave’ for a week, but that’s it. After the week is over, I’m done.”

“Whatever you want,” he replied. “But I have a feeling you’ll want more after the week is through, luv.” She made a disgusted face and turned to walk away. “Be sure to be at my house bright and early in the morning, Buffy- I like breakfast in bed.”

She looked at him indignantly before storming off. He chuckled to himself and walked outside, lighting a cigarette before he got to his car.

‘I can’t think of a better way to spend five hundred dollars,’ he thought, getting into his Desoto and speeding off towards his house.

* * * * *

When Buffy got home, she changed into pajamas and crawled into her bed, sighing as she looked outside.

‘I can’t believe he bid on me,’ she thought. ‘I should’ve known he’d do it, though. What’s the phrase people say...right- expect the unexpected. You should’ve known he’d pull something like this. Far be it for you to get a nice guy, Buffy. Is this some karmic punishment or something? I don’t see why. I was doing something nice! It was for charity, for Pete’s sake. And now I’m going to be Spike’s stupid slave-girl for a week. God, I hate my life.’

Just as she was beginning to doze off, she heard her phone ring. She raised an eyebrow and yawned before picking up the phone. “Hello?”

“Just making sure I had the right number to call you at, Summers,” Spike said on the other line. She tensed up, feeling anger course through her. “Have to be able to contact you when I need you, don’t I?” he continued with a loud chuckle. “Actually, you might as well just stay with me because I’m going to be abusing the privilege of having you at my service this week. You’ll be amazed at the tasks I’m going to give you, pet. Think you can handle it?”

“I’m up for the challenge,” she said sharply. “Otherwise, I’m up for giving you a black eye. How does that sound? It’d look really good with your bruised nose, don’t you think?” She heard him growl quietly suppressing a smile as she continued, “I’m going to sleep.”

“Good, you should get lots of rest,” he replied. “Because I’m going to ride you hard before I put you away, luv.” Her eyes widened, confused by the meaning of what he had said.

‘Riding me? What?!’ she thought, inwardly freaking out at the disturbing imagery that popped into her head. ‘Eww!’

“See you in the morning, kitten,” he replied, hanging up with a satisfied smirk on his face.

“Bastard,” she hissed as she hung up the phone. “I can’t wait to give him a taste of his own medicine.”
 

Chapter 5 – Bright and Early


“Hi, Mrs. Lawson,” Buffy said with a bright smile, seeing the older woman open the front door. “I didn’t wake you, did I?”

“No, dear,” Spike’s mother said, returning the friendly smile. “I’m always up with the birds on the weekends.”

“That’s good to know. Um…did Spike, I mean William, happen to fill you in on the strange circumstances?”

“He mentioned something about a charity auction and he donated a lot of money. He said that you might be staying here for the next week as part of the stipulations for the agreement.”

“Yeah,” Buffy said with reluctance evident in her voice. “Unless it’s not okay, in which case, that’s totally understandable.”

“No, dear, of course you can stay here. I’ve already made up the guest room for you.”

“Oh, well that’s…great,” she replied with false enthusiasm, trying to smile as his mother led her in the house.

“Now, while you’re here, and from now on, you are to call me Anne.”

“Yes, ma’am,” Buffy said with a smile.

“I’m usually at work during the week and out in the garden when I’m home, but if you need anything, I’m sure William will assist you.”

“Yeah,” she replied, trying to keep the sarcasm out of her voice. “I’ll bet he will.” Snapping out of the frustration that was threatening to overwhelm her, Buffy glanced around the house. “Is it okay if I make William some breakfast?”

“Oh, that is so kind. But he’s not up yet, you know.”

“Don’t worry about that,” she replied with a smile, walking toward the kitchen. “He asked me to bring him breakfast bright and early.”

* * * * *

“Rise and shine!” Buffy yelled, throwing the door to Spike’s bedroom wide open and smiling when he practically burrowed beneath the covers. “Wakey, wakey, Spikey,” she continued with a sugary sweet voice.

Walking over to his windows, she quickly jerked the cord on the blinds, filling the room with sunlight.

“What the bloody hell are you doing, you stupid bint?” Spike growled in a gravelly voice, barely audible as he buried his head in the pillow.

“Now, Spikey, you made me promise to bring you breakfast in bed. I believe your exact words were ‘bright and early’, and that’s what I’m here for. That’s what a good little slave does, after all,” she said, grabbing the comforter with both hands and jerking downward, raising an eyebrow when she saw the sheets tangled around his obviously naked hips.

Watching as he rolled over, her eyes widened when she saw the tented fabric of the sheet as he sat up.

“Whoa!” Buffy yelled, turning her head and holding out her hands as if to mentally stop him from moving any further. “I don’t need an eyeful of Spike Junior.”

Understanding her meaning, Spike stretched on his bed, letting his hand trail along his stomach, traveling downward until he was nearly pushing the sheet out of the way. “You sure about that, pet? It’s an impressive sight.”

“I’ll pass. I’m sure there’ve been enough sightings to deem it one of the stops in Rick Steve’s Guidebook.”

“Can’t argue with you there. It has been named one of the Seven Wonders, luv.”

“Keep dreaming, blondie.”

“What time is it?” he asked, squinting his eyes as he looked around the room.

“Six fifteen,” Buffy said, throwing open the blinds to the last window in the room and smiling as the bright sunlight flooded the room with light, highlighting the clothes-littered floor and walls lined with Sex Pistols posters. Raising her eyebrow at the messy room, she smiled when she heard Spike’s angry voice.

“On a Saturday!?” he cried, looking at her in disbelief.

“You said-”

“Bright and early,” he mimicked, rolling his eyes. “Guess I’ll have to be more particular with my instructions, won’t I?”

“If you think it’ll help,” she responded sweetly.

“Well…now that I’m up, what’s for breakfast?” he asked, sitting up and rubbing his hands together.

“Oh, did I forget to bring it in?” she asked in a falsely innocent voice, looking around the room. “I must have left it out in the hall when I opened the door. Hold on a minute.”

Quickly exiting the room, Buffy soon re-entered holding a tray, laden with food. Walking over to the bed, she ungracefully let it fall on his lap, giving him a bright smile as he raised an eyebrow at her.

“What? You have your orange juice,” she said, gesturing to the unpeeled orange that was wedged into a juice glass. “Your eggs,” she continued, pointing at the two raw eggs sitting in a measuring cup.

“And what’s this?” Spike asked with an irritated expression, gesturing to the potato.

“Hashbrowns,” she said, raising an eyebrow at him. “Never heard of ‘em?”

“I’ve heard of them,” he replied in a tense voice. “Just never seen them served in the raw form before. And this?”

Buffy suppressed a giggle as he wrinkled his nose at the dish of cottage cheese. “Well, you’re mom was out of milk, so I settled for the next best thing.”

“I see,” Spike said in a calm voice, nodding his head as he bit his lip, contemplating the meal before him. “Quite an inventive breakfast.”

“Oh, and I almost forgot,” she said, snapping her fingers together as if she was just remembering the finishing touch. Walking out the door, she immediately turned around and tossed a can through the air. Spike’s eyes widened as he caught it before it hit him in the eye. Glaring at her as she walked back to the bed, he looked at the offending object. “Your biscuits,” she said, gesturing to the unopened can that contained the raw batter for the bread.

“Alright,” he growled, slamming the can down on the tray. “I paid a lot of money for you, Goldilocks, and I expect to make good on my investment.”

“Fine. You want breakfast?” she asked, reaching into her pocket and extracting a foil-covered package before tossing it to him. “Pop Tarts. Enjoy.”

“Freeze, Summers,” Spike said as Buffy turned to leave the room. “I mean what I said, Miss High and Mighty. If you think you’re too good to do some of these things, maybe you should have thought twice before entering the auction.”

“And if you didn’t want to deal with me, you should have thought twice before bidding.”

“But the fact remains…I bid, I won, end of story. Now,” he continued with a growl in his voice. “If you’ll be ever so kind…I’d like my real breakfast.”

 

Chapter 6 – Dirty Laundry


Buffy walked downstairs and towards the kitchen, quietly mumbling to herself as she opened the refrigerator up.

“Is everything alright, dear?” Mrs. Lawson asked as she walked in through the back door, looking over at Buffy. “You seem kind of frustrated.”

“Has anyone ever told you that your son can be a pain?” Buffy asked, frowning. Anne quietly laughed and patted her shoulder.

“You’re not the first person, no,” she replied. “I know he can be a menace, but under that tough guy exterior lies a sweet boy.”

“Man,” Spike corrected as he walked into the kitchen, looking between his mom and Buffy. “If I didn’t know better, I’d say you two seem like friends.”

“She’s a lovely young woman,” Anne replied, walking towards William and kissing his cheek. “She reminds me of myself at that age.” Anne winked at Buffy, who raised an eyebrow. “I’m heading out to run some errands fairly soon. Will you two be okay alone?” Buffy shot Spike a scathing look before smiling politely at Anne.

“We’ll be fine,” she said.

“If there are any cop cars or ambulances outside when you return, don’t be surprised, Mum,” Spike replied, glaring at Buffy.

“Be nice, William,” Anne said firmly. “I don’t want you to cause any trouble, understand?”

“I only will if I’m provoked,” he said, crossing his arms. Anne sighed and grabbed her purse.

“Good luck, Buffy,” she said as she walked to the door. “And there better not be any bloodshed in my absence.” Both teens watched Anne leave before looking at each other.

“Forming an alliance with my mother?” Spike asked, leaning against a countertop.

“I honestly don’t understand why you’re such a bastard,” Buffy said, grabbing two eggs and some bread before going towards the oven and toaster. “She’s such a sweet lady- there’s no reason for you to be such a jerk.”

“I wouldn’t be a jerk if you weren’t such a bitch half the time,” he replied. She shot him a look before scouring through a cabinet. “What are you looking for?”

“Frying pan,” she said. “I suppose I can make you an omelet or something.”

He smirked and walked to a cabinet on the other side of the kitchen, opening it up and retrieving a frying pan before handing it to her.

“Thanks,” she said, putting it on the stove before looking at him. “Why are you down here? I would’ve thought you’d go back to sleep.”

“Have to make sure you’re not going to poison my food,” he said, sitting on the island in the center of the room.

“I hadn’t even thought of that,” she said, shrugging. “But I’ll file the idea away for later use.”

“You’re funny,” Spike said sarcastically, glaring at her. “So, luv, I came up with another chore for you to do today.”

“And what’s that?” she asked, cracking the eggs and pouring the contents of them into the frying pan.

“I was thinking maybe you could wash my car,” he replied. “Since it’s such a nice day, and all.”

“You’re going to let me touch your precious piece of junk?” she asked, her eyes wide in faux surprise. “Wow, Spike, I’m honored. I just hope I don’t scratch the paint or dent anything.” Buffy suppressed a smile as his eyes narrowed.

“Ruin anything and lose a hand,” he replied sharply. She smirked and saw a container on one of the counters that had ‘Flour’ written on the front of it. She had an idea suddenly and went over to it. Spike watched her, confused. “I’m pretty sure omelets don’t need flour, Goldilocks. What kind of chef are you?”

“I’ve never really cooked anything,” she said, shrugging. “I was thinking of maybe baking you cookies or something.” He raised an eyebrow as she opened the lid of the container and stuck her hand inside of it, grabbing a fistful of the powder. She looked at it in her hand and tilted her head. “Is this really even important in cooking?” Just as Spike was about to answer, she faked a sneeze as she opened her hand up, effectively blowing the flour towards Spike and covering him in it. He growled as he tried shaking it off of his black shirt and skin. She giggled quietly and dusted her hands off over the sink. “Sorry, I must be coming down with something.” She returned to the frying pan.

“I’m going to have to wash this now,” Spike said, frowning disgustedly. “It’s got your germs all over it.”

“Oh, boo hoo,” she replied before another idea hit her.

‘God, this is too easy,’ she thought.

“What am I talking about?” Spike asked, smirking. “You can do my laundry for me.”

“Fine,” she replied angrily, even though she was scheming inside. “Assemble your dirty clothes and point me in the direction of your washer and dryer.”

“They’re in the basement,” he said. “I’ll be right back.” He headed for the stairs before stopping. “If my food tastes funny, I’m making you start over again.”

“Whatever you say, captain,” she replied, giving him a mock salute. As soon as he was out of earshot, she grinned. “Dumb ass.”

* * * * *

After finishing his breakfast, Spike walked down to the basement and opened up the dryer to get his clothes. As he pulled them out and began to look at them, he clenched his jaw and growled. He held up one of his black t-shirts and tilted his head.

“Buffy!” he yelled, narrowing his eyes as she walked down the stairs, a smile plastered on her face. “What the bloody hell happened to my shirt?”

“I washed it,” she said innocently, her smile never faltering. “It’s what you wanted, right?”

“You shrunk my shirt!” he bellowed, holding it up in front of her face. “It couldn’t even fit you!”

“Oops, I must’ve done something wrong,” she said, sighing. “Oh well, it could be worse.”

“You can’t do laundry?” he asked sharply, looking at her. “Is there anything you’re good at?”

“I’m a swell bowler,” she replied, biting her lip to keep from laughing.

“You’re insufferable,” he mumbled, picking up his clothes and frowning. “What the hell am I supposed to do with these?”

“No idea,” she answered. “Guess you’ll have to go get new stuff.” He raised an eyebrow.

“You’re going to pay for this,” he said sternly, handing her the clothes he was holding. “Never mess with a guy like me, pet, unless you can handle the repercussions.”

“I’m not afraid of you, Spike,” she said, turning on her heel and heading towards the stairs as she tossed the clothes on the floor. “You’re just an asshole with bad hair.”

“What’s your problem?” he hissed, staring at her. She looked back at him.

“You are,” she answered, shooting him one last look before going upstairs.

“She doesn’t know who she’s screwing with,” he growled, watching her leave. “It’s time to enact a little revenge.”
 

Chapter 7 – Adding Insult to Injury


Walking into the kitchen, Spike studied Buffy for a long moment as she sponged off the counters. She had no idea he was there, and it was nice to see her acting like a normal, non-sadistic girl for a change.

Crossing his arms over his chest, he tilted his head to watch her flip the hair out of her eyes as she continued working.

‘When did we start hating each other?’ he thought with a frown on his face before raising an eyebrow in understanding. ‘Well, I didn’t start hating her until she woke me up at the crack of dawn…but what started the verbal sparring?’

Seeing Buffy look up at him, Spike watched as her features immediately hardened before she turned and threw the sponge into the sink.

“Didn’t ask you to clean up,” he said in a bored tone.

“Yeah, well, you would have eventually,” she countered through gritted teeth. “And I didn’t do it for you. I just didn’t want your mom to come home and have to face this mess.”

“Fair enough,” he said with a shrug, turning away from her so she wouldn’t see that he actually found it a thoughtful thing to do. “Come on.”

“Where are we going?” she asked, reluctantly following him out the front door. “Time to wash your car already?”

“Nope, that can wait,” Spike replied, pulling his keys out of his pocket. “I seem to remember you ruining my wardrobe.”

“Wardrobe?” Buffy said with a laugh. “So I threw a few shirts in the machine and accidentally set it on hot water- I wouldn’t call that your wardrobe.” Turning to stare at him for a moment, Buffy took in the newest black shirt and jeans that he was wearing. “Actually, for you…it probably was your whole wardrobe.”

Spike glared at her for a moment before narrowing his eyes. “Thought you didn’t know how to do laundry.”

“I, um, I don’t. That’s what I said earlier.”

“Then how did you know it was hot water that shrunk it?” he asked with a raised eyebrow.

“Well…uh…you see…what else could it be?” she said, biting her lip as she avoided looking him in the eye. “I mean, the detergent doesn’t shrink clothes…right?” she asked, feigning innocence.

“Uh huh,” Spike replied with a disbelieving expression, never taking his gaze from her. Seeing her fidget after a moment, he rolled his eyes, gesturing to the car. “Get in.”

* * * * *

“Coffee,” he said, handing her some money as they walked into the Espresso Pump.

“I thought we were shopping?”

“Need a caffeine fix,” he said with a shrug. “I’ll be over there.”

Buffy looked in the direction he was pointing and sighed when she saw his friends sitting at a nearby table. Seeing her expression, Spike misread it and rolled his eyes before handing her another five dollars.

“Get yourself something.” Watching the look of surprise that came over her face, Spike gave Buffy a smirk before continuing, “I’m not a slave driver, Summers…well…in this case, yeah, I guess I am, but I’m not evil.”

“That’s debatable.”

Stepping toward her, Spike smirked when Buffy didn’t move, leaving him to press his body against hers. “I’m bad, baby. Make no mistake, but I think evil is a bit of a stretch.”

“I guess we’ll have to see,” she said, walking over to the counter and ordering their drinks.

She debated getting something that would piss him off but decided against it. She could be the bigger person…just this once. He did, after all, offer to buy her something as well.

Smiling at the employee as he handed her the two Styrofoam cups, Buffy made her way over to the table and placed one of them in front of Spike, not bothering to look at his friends as she took in the interior of the small café.

Turning around a moment later when Spike started coughing, Buffy’s brows knit together as she watched him.

“What the bloody hell is this?” he asked, holding up his cup.

“Black coffee. It’s what you wanted, right?”

“This is not coffee. I don’t know what it is,” he said, pushing it away and glaring at her.

Taking a sip of hers, Buffy made a face at the bitter liquid before shoving it into his hands. “This must be yours,” she said, picking up her mocha. “Sorry, guess I got them mixed up.”

“Yeah, I’ll bet,” he said in a low voice, standing up.

“Spike, it was an honest mistake.”

“Right, like I believe that for a second. Like the flour? Or the laundry, for that matter?”

“Fine,” she muttered. “Believe what you want.”

“Come on,” Spike said as he began to walk away.

“You’re really not going to let this go, are you?”

“Why should I?” Spike asked with a raised eyebrow. “I’ve paid a lot of money for you, Summers, and I expect a good…return on my investment.”

The smirk that was taking over his features made her want to wipe the smug look from his face. Without another word, Buffy began walking away with Spike right behind her.

“Hey, Lawson!”

Buffy couldn’t help but turn around and see the lunkhead who was high-fiving Spike. “Nice purchase, my man,” the other guy said with a grin as he perused Buffy’s body.

Self-consciously crossing her arms over her chest, she glared at the other man.

“Yeah, Abrams, I’m kinda proud of her,” Spike said with a smile as he watched Buffy’s nervous blush before an angry fire sparked in her eyes.

He was surprised when she turned around and began walking away. With a parting slap on Parker’s back, Spike quickly caught up to her in front of the café.

“What the hell do you think you’re doing?” he asked in a quiet voice as he grasped her arm.

“Let’s get one thing straight, Spike,” she said, spinning around and practically spitting out his name as she poked a finger in his chest. “You may have paid a lot of money for me to do a few chores for you in the next week, but don’t think for a second that I’m going to stand by while you and your idiot friend ogle me as if you’ve never seen a woman before.”

“And the kitten has claws,” Spike replied, biting his bottom lip and admiring the flushed tone of her face and the angry look in her eyes. “I may have to get you mad more often,” he said, his gaze traveling to her heaving chest as her jaw tightened.

“It shouldn’t be too hard. I think you have a natural gift for getting under my skin.”

“Oh, I could definitely get under your skin,” Spike said with a smirk, the innuendo clear in his voice as Buffy turned away from him. He suppressed the chuckle at the rigid stance of her shoulders before she slowly turned back to face him.

Before Buffy could reply, Faith walked over to them with a smiling Andrew in tow. “Hey, B…Lawson,” she said, nodding a greeting. “Nice catch for you.”

“If you say so,” Spike replied, looking Buffy up and down and smiling again when her face heated up before she turned to the blushing boy behind Faith.

“Thanks for bidding on me last night, Andrew. It was really sweet,” she said with a genuine soft smile.

“I would have gone higher,” Andrew said with a dreamy look. “But…I didn’t have enough money.”

“Yeah,” Spike replied, never making eye contact as he lit a cigarette. “That much was obvious.”

He noticed Buffy’s glare in his direction, giving her a look of his own, before turning his attention back to the couple next to them.

“I didn’t catch the end of the auction. I’m assuming you got Faith,” Spike said, gesturing to the brunette and chuckling when Andrew blushed.

“Y-yeah…”

He didn’t seem to know what to say as Faith wrapped an arm around his shoulders. “We’re gonna have some fun this week, aren’t we, Andy?”

Buffy was suddenly grateful that Andrew wasn’t drinking anything as he began choking at her words. “Um…yeah,” he finally said when his coughing was under control.

“We’re gonna catch up with a bunch of people tonight at the Bronze. You guys want to tag along?” Faith asked, turning her attention back to Buffy, who in turn looked at Spike.

‘This is going to get really old,’ she thought, watching Spike carefully as he took a long drag on his cigarette. ‘I really don’t like the idea of having to ask his permission every time I want to do something.’

“Yeah, we’ll be there,” Spike said a moment later, waving as Faith and Andrew walked away.

“See, Summers,” Spike whispered, causing chills to run up and down her spine as his breath tickled her bare skin. “It could have been worse.”

“Who says Andrew would have been worse?” Buffy asked with a smirk as she looked over her shoulder at him. She felt proud when the look of doubt crept over his features before the mask fell back in place. Suddenly realizing her only tiny bit of leverage in this upcoming week from hell, Buffy’s smile widened. “I think he would have been a hell of a lot better than you,” she continued before walking away.

‘Maybe things aren’t as bad as I thought. He’s obviously got a weakness where his masculinity is concerned.’
 

Chapter 8 – Payback’s A Bitch


Things hadn’t improved between the time they left the coffee shop and when they arrived at the mall. Spike kept murmuring things under his breath, which only fueled Buffy’s anger more.

“Could you at least speak louder so I can hear what the hell you’re complaining about?” she asked as they entered the mall, ignoring the way he glared at her.

“I’m loads better than Andrew and you know it,” he replied before looking away, his shoulders slumping.

“Are you sulking?” she asked, grinning when he shot her a look. “Big bad Spike is sulking like a little boy!”

“Sod off, you insane bint,” he replied, crossing his arms. She looked at him, smiling.

“Are you freeing me of my slave duties?” she asked jokingly. “Wow, Spike, that’s so cool of you. I’ll see you around.” She turned on her heel but didn’t get very far as he grabbed her arm and wrenched her back to him.

“You’re mine,” he said sharply, looking into her eyes, and she felt a chill run through her. “I paid good money for you, and I’m not about to just write off five hundred dollars, out of the goodness of my heart. I demand to get what I paid for.”

“Oh, you’ll get what’s coming to you,” she replied, looking away. He raised an eyebrow, studying her. “Are we going to argue all day here or are we going to get you new clothes?”

“I want to go to the CD store first,” he said. “You can go off on your own for a bit.” She tilted her head, looking at him. “Or you can continue to be a thorn in my side- your call.”

“Adios,” she said, quickly turning and walking to a nearby department store. He sighed as he watched her retreating form.

“She’s going to be the bloody death of me,” he said before going to buy new CDs.

* * * * *

As Buffy exited the department store carrying several filled bags, Spike appeared by a kiosk selling Zippo lighters.

‘Why am I not surprised?’ she thought, heading towards him. ‘Maybe he’ll die of lung cancer before the week is through.’ She paused, frowning. ‘Wow, Buffy, that’s possibly the worst thing you’ve ever thought.’ Before analyzing it more, Spike appeared in front of her, looking at the bags she was holding.

“Go on a spree, luv?” he asked, an eyebrow raised.

“Yeah, it’s all for you,” she said. “I got you some new shirts to replace the old ones.”

“Thanks,” he said, smiling a little. “That’s really decent of you.” She bit back a smirk as she thought of the contents in the bags.

‘I have a feeling he won’t say thanks when he sees exactly what I bought,’ she thought.

“Let’s head home,” he said. “I can’t stand being in this place for another minute.” She nodded, preferring to go home anyway, not wanting to be seen in public with him more than she had to.

They walked out to the parking lot and got in his car before Spike realized something.

“Why am I driving?” he asked. “Shouldn’t you be carting me around?”

“Cars and Buffy don’t mesh well,” she said, looking at him. “So unless you want your darling car to end up smashed into a pole, I don’t suggest letting me drive.”

“Wow, Summers, I’m surprised you didn’t just get behind the wheel and let me find that out for myself,” he said, putting a hand over his heart, feigning shock. “Are you actually looking out for me?”

“Don’t want to be sent to jail for vehicular manslaughter,” she replied, narrowing her eyes at him. “I’d rather be sent there for homicide.” He glared at her before starting the engine.

“Whatever you say, pet, but I think you’re starting to grow fond of me,” he said. She looked at him as her jaw dropped. “Pretty soon, you won’t be able to resist my charm.”

“Charm?” she asked in disbelief. “I know you’re delusional, Spike, but if you think you’re charming, you’re even more insane than I suspected.”

“Oh, come on,” he said, smirking. “You fancy me, luv- I can tell.” She crossed her arms, tilting her head as she looked at him. “You totally wanted a piece of me this morning when I was in bed. And hey, I probably wouldn’t have stopped you. Bloody convenient, being in my bed and all.”

“Sorry, but you’re not as good-looking as you like to think,” she said sternly. “Just because some girls at school fawn all over you, doesn’t mean that I’m one of them. I see right through you, William- you’re just a scared, insecure little boy who pretends to be tough so that no one will see what a loser you really are.” He stared at her, actually surprised by her little outburst. When he didn’t say anything for a moment, she looked outside, mentally reprimanding herself for being so mean.

‘He might be a jerk, but that was almost pushing it a little too far,’ she thought.

“That’s really what you think?” he asked, and she nodded slightly. “Well, Goldilocks, I guess I can’t blame you for being honest.” She looked at him, raising an eyebrow. “But I’m not a loser.”

“Whatever you say,” she said, shrugging. “In your circle of friends, you’re not. But in mine, you’re not exactly the King of Cool.”

“Don’t really care what any of your pals think,” he said as he drove toward his house. “Besides, it’s not like any of your friends are the picture of perfection. I mean, Red, for instance, is-”

“Don’t you dare say anything about her!” Buffy cut in, angry. “She’s better than anyone I know, and if you can’t see that, then you’re blind.” He smiled and looked at her.

“You know, kitten, I really love verbally pushing your buttons,” he said before leering at her. “But I can think of a ‘button’ I’d really like to ‘push’ on you.” She blushed before smacking his arm, getting him to chuckle. “You’re a tough little girl, aren’t you?”

“I can hold my own,” she said, looking at him. “Especially against a loser like you.”

“Ouch, pet,” he replied, playfully pouting, holding a hand to his chest. “You hurt my feelings.”

“That’s not the only thing that’s going to hurt when I’m through with you,” she said, looking outside, not seeing the perverted smirk Spike sent her way.

“That sounds delicious, luv,” he said. “I’d bet you’d make it hurt in all the wrong places.” Once again, she blushed and smacked him. “What? I couldn’t just let that lie there.”

* * * * *

“Buffy, what the hell is all of this?” Spike asked as he looked through all of the bags Buffy set on his bed. “There’s a shirt in here that looks like a bloody disco ball.” She giggled and sat on the bed, grabbing a bag. “Please tell me that one’s for you.”

“Nope, all of this is yours,” she said. “I wanted to improve your wardrobe, you know- add some color.”

“‘Improve’?” he asked sharply, staring at her. “Summers, it looks like Studio 54 threw up in these bags.” She laughed again, only harder this time. As she wiped tears off the corners of her eyes, Spike threw a bag at her. “You’re going to return all of this and get me new stuff.”

“Can’t,” she said, crossing her legs underneath her. “Everything was on clearance, so you can’t return it.”

“At least I didn’t pay for any of this,” he mumbled, sitting down next to her, frowning. She smirked and looked at him.

“Actually, you paid for all of it,” she said, and he looked at her, confused. “I took money off of your desk before we left so that I could pay for it.” His face fell before she saw fury fill his eyes. She scooted back a bit, becoming slightly afraid of him. “I’m sorry! I wanted to piss you off.”

“Congratulations- it worked,” he replied, clenching both his jaw and his fists. “Do you have a bloody death wish?”

“I’m sorry,” she repeated, sounding almost sincere. “You’ve been a jerk to me for as long as I’ve known you, and I guess I just wanted to start paying you back for everything.”

“By stealing my money and wasting it on this crap?” he asked, kicking the bags off his bed.

“Yeah, it was a start,” she muttered, looking down. “I’m sorry, okay? I’ll pay you back, I promise.”

“Yeah, you’ll be paying me back,” he said. “Every single cent of the money you spent.”

“Fine,” she said, shrugging. “The receipt is in one of the bags- you can see the total, if you want.”

“Plus you owe me for the five hundred I spent on you,” he said. “I could’ve gotten a trollop that would’ve been more obedient than you.” She looked at him with an indignant expression.

“Then why didn’t you?” she asked, upset. “Would’ve saved me from this nightmare.”

“Because, luv, I think you’ll be better for me than any prostitute,” he said, smirking. “Besides, I doubt you have any diseases.” She mumbled something and stood up, going to the door. “What was that?”

“I wish I had a disease- you’d be the first person I’d want to infect,” she said, looking back at him.

“I’m touched,” he grinned. She narrowed her eyes at him before leaving the room. “And the fun is just beginning.”

 

Chapter 9 - Spike, The Schizophrenic


“Are you ready yet?” Buffy asked, falling back on the bed as she waited for Spike to come out of the bathroom.

“In a minute, Summers!”

“Unless you’re wearing something new, I would think the ‘getting ready’ process would be old-hat by now.”

“Well, excuse me!” he yelled from the other room. “Not all of us can be as naturally perfect as Princess Buffy.”

Ignoring the comment, Buffy softly began humming the song in her head, patting her hands on her stomach as she caught the beat before her lips curved into a smile.

“You walked into the party like you were walking onto a yacht
Your hat strategically dipped below one eye
Your scarf, it was apricot.”

“Shut up!” Spike yelled, knowing that she was singing to him, but it only caused her to sing louder.

”You had one eye on the mirror as you watched yourself gavotte
And all the girls dreamed that they'd be your partner
They'd be your partner, and...”

“Summers…”

“…you're so vain, you probably think this song is about you
You're so vain, I'll bet you think this song is about you
Don't you? Don't you?”

Walking into the room and leaning against the doorframe, Buffy bit her lip to suppress the smile as she stopped singing. Spike’s eyes narrowed on her innocent expression.

“What?” she asked, her eyes wide as she looked at him. “I was just singing. It’s not like it was insulting, unless you think it was directed at you.”

“And if I know it was directed at me?” he asked with an arched eyebrow.

“Well…what can I say?” Buffy replied before breaking into song again. “I’ll bet you think this song is about you, don’t you? Don’t yoooouuuu?”

“Let’s go,” he growled, waiting until she stood up before following her out the door.

“You’re not gonna change?”

Looking down at her tank top and jeans, Buffy quickly shook her head as she walked down the stairs. “I didn’t bring anything with me.”

“Why not?” he asked, following after her.

“Because I didn’t think I would be ‘moving in’ today, that’s why.”

Sighing heavily before calling goodbye to his mother, Spike followed Buffy out the front door. “I’ll run you by your house.”

Surprised when Buffy spun around to face him, he watched as she shook her head.

“No…that’s okay. I don’t mind what I’m wearing.”

“Well, that’s all good and fine, Summers, but you’re going to need clothes eventually. Might as well stop by while we’re out.”

“I can run home tomorrow…sometime.”

“Don’t be ridiculous,” he said, rolling his eyes as they each got in the car. “Which way?”

* * * * *

Pulling up in front of the rundown apartment complex on the low-rent side of town, Spike kept all snide comments to himself as he stared at the building.

“I thought you would have lived close to my house, pet.”

“What made you think that?” Buffy asked, avoiding his eyes as she unbuckled her seatbelt. “Not everyone can live the highlife.”

Climbing out of the car, she whirled around when she heard the car door close behind her.

“What are you doing?”

“Saying hello to your mum.”

“Why?” she asked skeptically.

“Because she’s a nice lady. Always been decent to me - what’s the problem, Summers?”

‘The problem?!’ she silently screamed. ‘Other than the fact that the person who hates me will have more ammo in the future, you want to know my problem?’

“Come on,” she said in a soft voice, shoving her thoughts to the back of her mind. Walking toward the stairs, which was actually a fire escape, and climbing up to the second floor, she kept her eyes looking downward as she unlocked the door. Wordlessly holding it open for him, Buffy waited for him to enter before tugging on it to get it to close all the way with a slam. “Mom?”

“In here, honey.”

Frowning as she followed the voice, Buffy walked toward the hallway. Spike’s brow furrowed as he looked at the combined living room/kitchen. He would have sworn Buffy came from money. Following her to the hallway, he heard her frantic voice coming from the closest room.

“Are you okay?”

Quickly walking into the room, Spike’s eyes widened when he saw Joyce Summers lying in bed with a scarf wrapped securely around her head.

“Spike,” she said with a warm smile. “Forgive me for not getting up- I haven’t been feeling like myself today.”

“Are you okay?” Buffy repeated, sitting on the edge of the bed, taking her mother’s hand in hers.

“I’m fine, Buffy. I woke up feeling a little under the weather, so I stayed home from work today, but I’m fine,” Joyce insisted.

“I can stay home tonight,” she said, not even looking at Spike as she made her priorities known.

“No. That’s silly- you go out and have a good time. Did you come home to get your things?”

“Yeah,” Buffy said reluctantly.

“Okay then,” Joyce said with a warm smile. “You go get your things, and Spike can keep an old woman company.”

“You’re far from old, Joyce,” he said with a smile.

“Go, Buffy,” her mother said, giving her a little push. “This week, you’re free.”

“No,” she said, standing up and glancing at Spike. “This week, I’m a slave.”

* * * * *

Both stayed quiet on the drive to the Bronze, neither willing to say anything as they got out of the car and walked through the alley to get to the club.

“Listen…if you need to stay and help out your mum this week, I’ll understand.”

“What? And let your good mood run out and have you criticizing me for not making good on your investment? I don’t think so.”

“I’m trying to be nice, Buffy.”

“Yeah, well, don’t,” she said, spinning around to face him. “This has always been me, Spike. From the day you first met me, this was me, so don’t start treating me like I’m some charity case. I’m the same girl I was just a few hours ago.”

Spike watched as Buffy stormed into the Bronze, clenching his jaw before following. “Fine,” he muttered to himself. “You don’t want me to be nice- not a problem.”

As Buffy entered the club, she immediately looked around, hoping to see a friendly face or two.

‘Anything to get away from him,’ she thought. She saw Willow and Oz sitting at a table and began to walk towards them before Spike intercepted her, blocking her path.

“Where do you think you’re going?” he asked sternly, tilting his head.

“To say hello to Willow and Oz,” she answered, crossing her arms over her chest. “Two people who don’t piss me off.”

“I wouldn’t piss you off if you were nicer to me,” he replied.

“Bull,” she said with a scoff. “You were mean to me long before I was to you.”

“What? That’s not true,” he said, confused. “You were the one who-”

“Hey, B,” Faith said, appearing beside the two blondes. “Hey, Spike. I’m surprised you two haven’t killed each other yet. I’m sure all of that pent-up sexual tension is almost eating you alive, as it is.”

Buffy made a disgusted face, rolling her eyes at the brunette.

“Where’s Andrew?” Spike asked, looking around. Faith smirked.

“He’s getting me a drink,” she said. “That kid is so whipped! I’m just waiting for him to let me make a man out of him.” Buffy and Spike exchanged a look before Faith laughed. “Oh, come on- he obviously needs a ride. I don’t want the guy to graduate a virgin.”

“Does he know that’s your plan?” Buffy asked, looking at Andrew, sitting on a stool by the bar.

“He will soon enough,” Faith said, grinning. “But what about you two? Any debauchery I should know about?”

“No,” Buffy said firmly. “That’s a very emphatic no. In fact- a thousand gallons of no!”

Spike saw a slight blush in her cheeks and wrapped his arm around her waist, deciding it was time to get her back a little.

“Baby, be honest,” Spike said, leaning over to gently nibble on her ear. Buffy jolted a little, and Spike smiled at her before looking at Faith. “Buffy’s the best shag I’ve ever had,” he continued, watching as she froze, feeling both nauseous and disgusted. Before she could say anything, Faith slapped her arm.

“Good on you, B,” Faith said. “You deserve a release, too, you know.”

“Thanks,” she muttered, looking down as Andrew came over to them, holding a soda out for Faith.

“Hi, Buffy,” he said, smiling at her. “How’re you?”

“I’ve been better,” she answered, and Spike frowned. “How about you?”

“I’m doing well,” he answered, blushing a deeper shade of red as Faith took his hand in hers and squeezed it.

“Let’s go dance, Andy,” she said, pulling him out to the dance-floor. Buffy watched and shook her head.

“He has absolutely no idea about what he signed on for when he bid on her,” she said. “I feel sorry for him. Faith’s going to put him through a wringer before she’s done with him.”

“Looks like the slave turned out to be the master,” Spike replied.

“I think girls are called mistresses in that scenario, aren’t they?” she asked, looking at him.

“Or, in her case, a dominatrix,” he said, causing Buffy to smile slightly. “Are we actually having a friendly conversation?”

“What? No,” she said quickly, and he smirked. “I still hate you.”

“Whatever you say, luv,” he replied. “Even though I know you want to shag my brains out.”

“No!” she said, glaring at him as her good mood evaporated. “I wouldn’t ever sleep with you. You’re beneath me, Spike.” He looked at her, hurt by her words. She saw sadness in his eyes before it was replaced with anger.

‘That really wasn’t a good thing to say, Buffy,’ she thought. As Spike opened his mouth to speak, she took a small step back. ‘Here it comes.’

“You think you’re better than me?” he asked sharply. “You’re the one who’s unpopular and poor, not me.” She bit back the tears that were beginning to form in her eyes. “Never would’ve guessed you live in the slums, pet, but I guess it makes sense. Explains why you are the way you are. You’re nothing.” She felt a tear escape the corner of her eye and quickly wiped it away, not wanting to give him the satisfaction of knowing that he really was hurting her. “By the way, you don’t owe me for the clothes you bought today- there’s no way in hell you’ll ever be able to pay me back, as it is. Don’t need to make you even poorer than you already are.” She balled up her fist and punched him in the stomach, and he groaned in agony, bowling over and clutching his abdomen.

“Fuck you,” she hissed, turning on her heel and storming out of the club.

“Wow, looks like she’s not being an obedient slave,” Cordelia said as both she and Doyle walked towards Spike. He looked at them, still in pain. “Want me to go after her?”

“No,” Spike answered. “She’s my problem.”

“What did you do to her?” Willow asked as she walked over to Spike, a stern look on her face. Oz appeared behind her, looking equally as angry, which was odd, considering Oz never seemed to show any type of emotion.

“I…I said some pretty bad things,” Spike admitted, looking down. “I just don’t know when to stop sometimes.”

“And you have the uncanny ability of sticking your foot in your mouth,” Willow said, crossing her arms. “I’ll go talk to her.” She turned and walked away quickly, hoping to catch up to her friend. Cordelia walked to the bar, and Doyle patted Spike’s back before following her, leaving Oz standing in front of Spike.

“If you do anything to hurt her again, you know I’m going to step in, right?” he asked, causing Spike raised an eyebrow. “She’s an amazing girl, and the fact that you can’t see that, really bothers me.”

“I know she’s ‘an amazing girl’,” Spike replied. “I’m just a wanker who pushes it too far.”

“Then stop pushing and be nice to her,” Oz said, walking away and going after both Willow and Buffy. Spike went to sit down at a table, absently running his hand over his stomach.

‘I can’t believe I said that to her,’ he thought, resting his head on the wall behind him. ‘I’ve got to talk to her and make things right.’ He stood up and headed for the exit.

* * * * *

Willow caught up to Buffy out in the parking lot. She quickly embraced her friend when she saw the tears streaming from her eyes and rolling down her cheeks.

“I hate him, Will,” she sobbed. “I don’t understand how he can be nice one second and then be so mean the next.”

“That’s just Spike,” Willow said quietly, running her hand over he friend’s hair. “He goes from nice to jerk in five seconds flat. Maybe he’s a schizophrenic,” she added, relaxing a little as Buffy managed a small smile.

“I wish,” she mumbled, wiping off her eyes. “It definitely would explain things.”

“Want us to take you home?” Willow asked as she saw Oz coming towards them. “We can drive you.”

“I don’t want to impose,” Buffy said, sniffling. “You two should be alone.”

“I’d feel better if I knew you were safe,” Willow said. Buffy paused before nodding, following Willow over to Oz’s van. All three of them got in and headed off into the night.

Spike came outside in time to see a van speeding off and knew it had to be Oz’s.

‘Great,’ he thought, going to his car and getting inside. ‘You really need to learn to change, Spike. The girl already hates you enough, and if you ever want a chance, you need to reform. Besides, it’s not like you even have a vendetta against her in the first place- you just like messing with her.’ He sighed and started his car. ‘You deserve to be hated.’

He took a shortcut to her apartment and waited for Oz’s van to pull up. When twenty minutes passed and there wasn’t a sign of anyone, Spike drove towards Willow’s house. Upon seeing that Oz’s van wasn’t parked there, Spike began to wonder where Buffy went.

‘But it’s not like she’d talk to me even if I found her,’ he thought, beginning to drive home.

It was as he pulled up in his driveway that he saw something on his porch. Rather, someone. As he got out of the car and focused on the person sitting on his porch, he froze.

“Buffy.”
 

Next