Chapter 10 – Just Words


Noticing that she was avoiding his gaze, Spike slowly walked toward the porch, hesitating before he sat down next to her.

“I didn’t mean it,” he began, resting his elbows on his knees as he stared straight ahead.

“Doesn’t mean it’s not true,” she said softly, obviously choking back the tears.

“Buffy-”

“Can we not…talk right now,” she whispered. “I’m only here because I have to be. Trust me, it’s the last place I want to be, but the faster this week is over, the faster I can pretend you don’t exist.”

“I just wanted to say-”

“I know what you wanted to say, Spike,” she murmured, finally turning to look at him, causing his heart to constrict as he saw her watery eyes. “They’re just words, right? They never really mean anything.”

“But they hurt you. I hurt you, and I never meant to, pet.”

Glancing at the ground for a moment, Buffy bit her lip as she nodded. “Can we just forget about it? Can we just get through this week and then pretend like the other doesn’t exist?”

“And if that’s not what I want?”

“Then I don’t know what you want,” she said, standing up and wrapping her arms around her body. “And I don’t want to know. Whatever you think is going to happen, whatever you might want to happen…I’m not sleeping with you just so you can say that you went slumming it for a week.”

“That’s not what-”

“That’s not what you meant,” she filled in for him. “That’s never what you mean, is it, Spike? Not once it’s out of your mouth. At least take some responsibility for yourself. You meant what you said and that’s…that’s okay. It’s your opinion, and that’s fine. There’re reasons why I’m ‘unpopular and poor’, but you’re not going to hear them. That’s what my true friends are for.”

Hearing her softly spoken voice nearly cut into him like a knife. He would have preferred her to hit him than say what she was saying.

“Can we go inside now?” she asked. “I’d like to call and check on my mom and get to bed.”

‘Oh God, her mum,’ he thought, feeling his stomach drop even farther.

“What happened to her?” he asked, standing up and reaching for his keys.

“Cancer,” she said softly. “Kind of sudden, but she caught it in time…she’s better now.”

“I’m glad,” he whispered. “No one should have to go through the death of one of their parents at our age.”

‘His dad,’ she thought, remembering the car accident a few years ago.

“Yeah,” she agreed, standing behind him as he opened the door.

“Ladies first,” Spike said with a soft smile, waiting until she walked past him before entering the house.

“Your room is right next to mine,” he said, climbing the stairs, feeling a sense of loss that he wasn’t going to be close enough to touch her in a few moments.

Opening the door of the room, Buffy gave him a halfhearted smile before she began walking past him. Stopping with a start when she felt Spike’s hand on her arm, she turned to face him with confusion etched on her features.

“Buffy…”

He trailed off in a whisper, looking into her eyes.

Seeing the façade crumble, Buffy relaxed a little bit as she sighed and looked at him. “I owe you an apology, too,” she said, knowing that wasn’t what he was looking for, but it was easier than forgiving him at that moment. “I didn’t mean what I said…I probably just provoked you.”

“Yeah, well…you’re the best at it,” he said with a smile before slowly leaning down and brushing a kiss to her forehead. “Goodnight, pet.”

“’Night, Spike,” she said, feeling their tentative truce take effect as she gave him a soft smile before walking into her room.

Feeling moderately better, Spike sighed as he dragged his hand over his face. Walking into his room, he kicked the door shut before walking over to his bed and collapsing on his back.

“You really fucked up tonight, mate,” he muttered to himself, staring at the ceiling. “Mental note- keep feet firmly on the floor and not shoved in your mouth…or next time, she’ll make sure and shove one up your ass- rightfully so.”

* * * * *

Waking up the next morning, Buffy had been surprised to see her bag sitting outside her door. She knew she left it in Spike’s car, but she had been too upset the night before to think about grabbing it before she came inside.

Wearing her favorite pajamas and slippers, Buffy padded down the stairs, automatically seeking out the heavenly scents that were drifting in from the kitchen. Stopping in the doorway, her eyes widened when, instead of Anne, Spike stood in front of the stove, scrambling eggs and dividing them among the plates that were already laden with bacon and toast.

“What’s going on?” Buffy asked with a smile, walking into the kitchen and taking a seat at the island, raising an eyebrow when Spike set a glass of orange juice in front of her.

“Serving you breakfast,” he said with a grin.

“And apparently I’m missing something,” she replied, watching him carefully. “Aren’t the slaves supposed to be the ones doing the cooking?”

“Not when the master has been a right wanker,” Spike said, setting a plate in front of her. “Don’t get used to it- I’m not one for the kitchen labor, and consider yourself lucky if you don’t bite into an eggshell with every other bite. The Good Mood Train immediately stops with breakfast.”

Buffy giggled as he sat down next to her. “Yes, Master.”

“Now that has a nice ring to it,” Spike said with a playful smirk, glancing at her as she giggled again. ‘Stick with that,’ he thought to himself. ‘Her laugh is a million times better than a single tear- especially when you’re the cause of the tears.’

Waiting until she picked up a fork, Spike studied her as she took a bite of the eggs, briefly closing her eyes.

“Not good?” he asked, feeling insecure with his culinary skills.

“Delicious,” she said, turning to look at him. “You have some hidden talents, Mr. Lawson.”

“More than you know, pet,” he replied, raising an eyebrow at her as she blushed. “Let me know if you want to experience anything else.”

“I think I’ll stick with the eggs,” she said with a smile, causing Spike to relax.

‘And we’re back with the easy rapport and innuendos- this is good.’

“So, what’s on the agenda today?” Buffy asked, taking another bite.

“Well…my room kind of needs to be cleaned,” he said in a sheepish tone.

“Considering the things that I pulled on you yesterday, I think I can manage that,” she said, her smile never faltering.

“But they weren’t half as bad as-”

“Spike,” she said in a warning tone, waiting until he turned to look at her. “Let it go.”

Hearing her gentle voice, he finally allowed himself to relax. “Alright, well, if you’re looking for more tasks today… you can always give me a striptease.”

Surprising him as her laughter met his ears, Spike turned to look at her, seeing the look she gave him. “Now, now, Mr. Lawson…what are you gonna do if I take you up on that one of these days?”

Buffy laughed even harder as Spike choked on his food.
 

Chapter 11- At Your Service


After finishing her breakfast, Buffy returned to the guest room to change, putting on jeans and a t-shirt. Spike walked upstairs as she exited her room, heading across the hall to his.

“I brought you garbage bags,” he said, handing them to her. “I’m sure you’ll find a lot of stuff you’ll want to throw away.”

“Is there anything I should be aware of?” she asked curiously, accepting the bags before opening the door to his room. As she looked around, she couldn’t help but gasp quietly. “Spike, this is…horrendous! You barely even have a path to your bed! It’s worse than yesterday.”

He chuckled and crossed his arms, leaning against the doorframe.

“Think you can handle cleaning in here?” he asked, looking at her.

“Do I get one of those suits that people wear when they’re dealing with hazardous materials?” she asked, frowning. “Did you purposely throw stuff on the ground and demolish this place so I’d have a field day cleaning?”

“Nope,” he answered, smirking. “This is just how I live my life.”

“Your mom must love it,” she said sarcastically, taking a couple of steps into the room. “If I contract some weird-ass disease, I’m suing you.”

He laughed and walked down the hallway, going downstairs again as Buffy kicked a pile of clothes aside and shook her head.

‘This is a nightmare,’ she thought. ‘But hey, maybe I’ll make an interesting discovery or two.’

* * * * *

About an hour later, she was laying on her stomach beside the bed, trying to clean underneath it. She grabbed a bunch of balled-up pieces of paper, candy wrappers, and miscellaneous garbage, throwing it into the fourth garbage bag she had filled up. It was around that time when she came across a pile of magazines. She raised an eyebrow and brought them out so she could look at them.

Spike came upstairs and stopped to stand in the doorway of his room, watching as Buffy crawled out from under his bed with a stack of his Playboy magazines. He smirked as he saw her blush, making a face before she shoved the magazines back in their rightful place.

“See anything interesting, pet?” he asked, and she looked at him with wide eyes, still blushing.

“How long have you been standing there?” she asked, quickly standing up.

“Long enough to see you find my magazines,” he replied, studying her. “I’m surprised you didn’t look at any of them.”

“Why the hell would I do that?” she asked, frowning. “I’m straight- I like guys.”

“You don’t like me,” he pointed out, and she sighed.

“You’re not that horrible when you’re nice,” she said quietly, sitting on his bed. He smiled and walked over to her, sitting beside her. “So, is your room up to par, sir?”

“Looks pretty good to me,” he replied, looking around. “Find anything else that caught your eye?”

“No,” she answered, tilting her head as she looked at him. “Why? Is there something I should’ve seen?”

“The stack of porn DVDs in my closet,” he said, and she blushed again, looking away before standing up. “You know, we could watch one or two today,” he continued, smiling when she looked at him with wide eyes. “What? It’d be fun.”

“For you, maybe,” she said. “I r-refuse to watch anything of that n-nature with you.” He chuckled as she quickly stormed out of his room, going into hers and slamming the door.

“Hey, be easy on the door, Summers,” he said loudly. “Don’t want to break it. That is, unless you fancy repairing it.”

“Bite me,” she replied, causing him to smirk.

“I’d love to,” he said to himself, lying back on his pillows.

* * * * *

Later that night, Buffy left her room and walked downstairs, seeing Anne moving around in the kitchen.

“Is everything alright?” she asked, looking at the older woman. Anne smiled softly at Buffy.

“Everything is fine, dear,” she said. “I’m just worried that William isn’t being lenient enough on you.”

“He’s not making me do anything out of line,” Buffy replied, sitting on a chair. “I’m sure some of the other girls have been doing far worse things.” Anne raised an eyebrow, and Buffy quickly continued, “William’s been good about all of this.”

“I made her breakfast, Mum,” Spike said, walking into the room. “So I can’t be that much of a monster.”

“I just don’t want to find out that you’ve been giving her difficult tasks or making her do asinine things just for your amusement,” Anne said, looking at her son. “She’s a nice girl, William, and she deserves to be treated with respect.”

“Nothing but the best for Princess Buffy,” Spike said, giving Buffy a small wink. She raised an eyebrow before smiling at him. “So, what’s for dinner?”

“I was thinking of making lasagna,” Anne answered. “Is that okay with you, Buffy?”

“It’s perfect,” she said, smiling. “I love lasagna. My mom and I used to make it a lot when I was younger. If you’d like, I can help.”

“Can William spare you for a while?” Anne asked, and Spike nodded, waving it off. “Great, I’d love some company.” Buffy smiled and walked over to Anne. The two women began preparing the meal for the night, and as Spike stood in the doorway watching them, he couldn’t help but smile at how right it seemed.

‘My two favorite girls together,’ he thought. ‘It seems as though things are looking up, doesn’t it?’

* * * * *

“I thought you said you couldn’t cook,” Spike said as he walked upstairs with Buffy after dinner.

“I can’t,” she replied. “Your mom was in charge of making dinner- I just helped. If she hadn’t been there, I’m sure it would’ve been horrid.”

“Probably,” he agreed, laughing when she smacked his arm. “So, what’re you doing tonight?”

“Whatever you tell me to,” she said, stopping to stand in front of the guest room. He smirked, tilting his head as she clarified, “A chore- not something… bad.”

“Define ‘bad’,” he said, chuckling as she began to blush. “You’ll cave in one day, Goldilocks- I can feel it.”

“I will never cave in,” she replied, making a face. “You… are not a nice person.” He laughed as she turned on her heel and walked into the room.

“Actually, princess, I thought of something you can do for me,” Spike said, standing in her doorway.

“Yeah? And what’s that?” she asked, looking at him with an amused expression.

“I could use a massage,” he answered, and she raised an eyebrow. “Up for it?”

“You want a massage?” she asked, clarifying, and he nodded. She sighed and patted her bed. “Fine.” He smirked and walked into the room, sitting beside her. “A back massage, right?”

“Wherever your hands want to be is fine with me,” he said, shooting her a lascivious smirk before lying down.

‘Okay, Summers. It’s a massage. No big deal, just rub his back and don’t focus on the tight muscles that are underneath that t-shirt or the way the sleeves wrap around his arms and show off how strong he must be. Or the fact that you are going to have to be in direct contact of said muscles. You can do this.’

“Almost forgot,” Spike said, sitting up and stripping off his shirt. “That’s better.”

‘You can’t do this.’

Feeling her mouth go dry at the skin that was suddenly exposed to her gaze, Buffy tried to suppress the urge to gasp for breath as he lay down on the mattress.

“Ready when you are, Summers.”

Briefly closing her eyes to control the trembling of her hands, Buffy took a deep breath, desperately trying not to concentrate on the sudden ache between her thighs that was making itself known.

“Ready,” she murmured, licking her lips. Hesitantly reaching toward him, she slowly let her hands begin to massage his back with light pressure.

“Oh, come now. I know you can do better than that,” Spike said with a smile obvious in his voice.

“You want better?” Buffy asked, swallowing her nerves and forcing herself not to think of the body she was touching. “I’ll give you better.”

Not giving herself a chance to think, she quickly straddled his back, smiling when she saw his eyes widen at the sudden change. Putting her hands on his shoulders, she began releasing the tension in his muscles and hearing the soft sigh that he gave her before his eyes drifted shut once again.

“Better?” she asked in a soft voice, getting a groan of pleasure and inaudible mumbling as her answer. “Gee…that’s almost enough to make a girl feel unappreciated,” she said with a pout.

“Perfect, luv,” he whispered after a moment as her hands moved down his back, gently kneading the muscles that she came in contact with. “’Course, I won’t object if you want to go lower.”

Practically hearing the smirk in his voice, Buffy narrowed her eyes for a moment. ‘Two can play at this game,’ she thought with a smile.

Leaning over until her chest was pressed against his back, she smiled when she felt his muscles tense. “Got any massage oil?” she asked in a breathy voice, biting her tongue to keep from laughing at the almost inaudible moan that came from Spike and the fact that he shifted ever so slightly beneath her.

Sitting up, Buffy tried to keep from clenching her thigh muscles to ease the ache that was becoming worse with each passing moment.

“Anyone ever tell you that you’re a minx?” he asked after he got his body’s reaction under control.

“Can’t say that they have,” Buffy replied, rising up on her knees to add more pressure with her hands. “Angel called me ‘lover’ a few times, but that’s-”

Buffy’s eyes widened as Spike used the opportunity to flip over, nearly knocking her off balance and causing her to practically fall on top of him with a suppressed gasp. “Don’t say that name,” he said in a dangerous voice.

“And why not?” she asked, arching an eyebrow at him as she sat up. Her eyes widened when he followed her movements, wrapping his arms around her waist and holding her in place. Buffy suddenly became all too aware of their intimate position as her breath caught in her throat.

“Because you can do better than him.”

Buffy nearly snorted as she rolled her eyes. “Yeah, that’s what all the guys say…when they’re trying to get laid.”

“Not trying to get laid,” Spike replied, looking into her eyes. “I just want you to know that you’re better than him.”

“And how do you know this?” she asked in a disbelieving voice.

“Because I know you.”

The honesty in his eyes nearly shocked Buffy as she looked away, feeling her breath catch in her throat again when she felt the effects that her massage obviously had on him as the evidence of his arousal pressed against her leg.

Moistening her suddenly dry lips, she briefly closed her eyes to try and slow her breathing.

Spike watched her tongue briefly sweep across her lips before letting his gaze fall to her heaving chest, enjoying the way the snug t-shirt clung to her breasts as she breathed.

Unable to take it anymore, he grabbed her arms, pulling her toward him for a crushing kiss, feeling her subtle resistance before she melted against him, letting her lips move against his with equal fervor.

Spike felt his eyes drift closed as his lips played over hers, growing more aroused at the taste of the strawberry lip-gloss that coated her lips. Shaking off his hold, she quickly wrapped her arms around his neck, leaning into him and eagerly taking what he was offering as she trembled beneath his touch.

Nearly jumping out of his skin when her tongue brushed against his, Spike pulled her even closer to him, wanting to take what he’d wanted from the moment he first saw her.

Letting her fingers trail over his shoulders before running downward, she gasped in pleasure as they came in contact with the defined muscles of his abdomen. Feeling a flood of moisture between her legs, Buffy dragged her nails along his stomach, anticipating what could happen between them. She wasn’t used to emotions that were so intense, and it sent a simultaneous shiver of excitement and fear racing down her spine.

Never stopping his movements, Spike abandoned the brutal hold on her body and grabbed her hips to pull her more forcefully toward him, grinding himself against her. Swallowing her moan of pleasure as he continued to kiss her, he began to move with her, feeling her entire body shake as he thrust his hips against hers.

Abandoning her lips for a moment, Spike kissed along the edge of her jaw before traveling lower, smiling when she gasped as he gently bit her neck. Eagerly reaching between them and working the button of her jeans, he lowered the zipper and began to maneuver her to take them off more easily when he felt her shudder.

Slowly pulling back to look at her, he saw the uncertainty in her eyes as she realized what was happening.

“Oh, God,” she said softly. “I-I can’t do this.”

Closing his eyes as she rolled away from him and jumped off the bed, Spike let himself fall back on the mattress, running a hand over his face. Trying to keep his mind off the throbbing in his jeans and the fact that it wouldn’t be relieved anytime soon, he slowly sat up and restrained the urge to crack his knuckles.

“I’m sorry,” she whispered, finally turning to face him with a flaming red face. “I didn’t mean to….it was just…and then it was just…bad. Good!” she quickly corrected, seeing the expression on Spike’s face. “But i-it just can’t…”

“Relax, Buffy,” Spike said in a soothing tone. “Just a kiss. Nothing to get upset about,” he continued, standing up from the bed and walking across the room. “Now, if you need me, I’m gonna watch a movie. Feel free to join me, if you want. Oh, and Summers,” he said, turning around when he reached the door. “That was a hell of a massage.”

 

Chapter 12- Pay the Toll


The next morning, Buffy walked down to the kitchen to make breakfast and was surprised to see Anne in front of the stove, making pancakes.

“Good morning,” Anne said, smiling. “How are you today, dear?”

“I’m doing well,” Buffy answered, sitting down. “You’re making breakfast?”

“I thought I’d give you a break when it comes to making William’s food,” Anne replied. “I’m sure you do enough for him, as it is, and I enjoy cooking.”

“Thank you,” Buffy said sincerely, smiling. “My culinary skills are lacking.” Anne laughed a little before putting a stack of pancakes on a plate. “Can I help at all?”

“No, I think I’ve got it covered,” Anne said. “But thank you. It’s nice to know that not all teenagers are so disrespectful or lazy. Not like my William sometimes,” she continued causing them both to smile softly. “So, tell me, why aren’t you two dating?” Buffy raised an eyebrow and hoped that Anne couldn’t tell she was slightly blushing. “I think you’d be great for him. Maybe you could get him to change his ways a bit.”

“I don’t think he and I could ever date,” she replied, looking down. “We’re really different people.”

“Well, opposites attract,” Anne said, shrugging. “Or so they say.”

Nodding to appease the older woman, Buffy stood up as Anne finished preparing a tray for Spike. “Does this look acceptable?”

“It’s perfect,” Buffy said, smiling. “I can’t thank you enough for doing this.”

“I can’t thank you enough for dealing with my son this week,” Anne said, giving Buffy a warm smile before she grabbed the tray and walked away. Anne watched her for a moment and sighed.

‘I just wish they’d both realize how right they’d be together,’ she thought before beginning to wash some dishes.

* * * * *

When Buffy entered Spike’s room, she was surprised to see him still asleep. She walked over to the bed and sat on the edge, holding the tray with one hand as she nudged him to wake up. He shifted a little before slowly opening his eyes, looking up at her and smiling softly.

“Good morning, luv,” he said. “You brought me a real breakfast in bed? I’m touched.”

“Yep, made it myself,” she lied, smiling. “You might want to eat fast- we’ve got to go to school in about twenty minutes.”

“Sod school- let’s stay home,” he replied, sitting up and putting the tray on his lap. “Not like I’m learning anything anyway.”

“Yes, because you know everything there is to know,” she said, standing up.

“Like you pay attention in class,” he shot back, looking at her.

“I… I take notes,” she replied, crossing her arms as Spike raised an eyebrow.

“Correction- you write notes to Red,” he said, smiling. “Not the same.”

“Bite me,” she muttered, going to the door.

“Did last night. Or have you already forgotten?” he asked with a smirk as she looked down.

“I don’t want to talk about what happened,” she said, avoiding Spike’s eyes as he sighed and nodded.

“Fine,” he replied. “Go get ready for school. I’ll meet you downstairs.” She nodded and quickly left, closing the door behind her.

‘But I’m going to make you change your mind about me soon enough,’ he thought as he looked at his pancakes. ‘Wait a second- she can’t cook. How the bloody hell did she make these?’

* * * * *

As Spike walked into the kitchen, he saw Buffy talking to Anne.

“Good morning, William,” Anne said. “Did you sleep well?”

“I guess,” he answered. “Stayed up late watching a movie, but yeah, I suppose I slept fine.” He winked at Buffy, who blushed and looked away. “Oh yeah- thanks for breakfast, Mum.” Buffy looked at him indignantly for a moment before sighing.

“Guess he caught us,” she said, looking at Anne, who laughed. “You know I can’t cook, Spike.”

“I know,” he agreed. “And I’m genuinely happy Mum made my breakfast- you would’ve made something horrible that I wouldn’t be able to stomach.” Buffy shot him a look.

“I’m going to head off to work, so I’ll see you two this evening,” Anne said, grabbing her purse and going to the door. “Have a nice day at school.”

“Bye,” both Buffy and Spike said in unison as Anne left.

“Ready to go?” Spike asked, looking at Buffy. She nodded and went to grab her backpack off of the couch in the living room, but Spike quickly walked ahead of her and grabbed it before she was even close to it. He smirked and held it away from her when she approached.

“What’re you doing?” she asked, raising an eyebrow.

“I got your backpack for you,” he said. “Least you can do is pay me back.”

“Why don’t you just give me it?” she asked, crossing her arms over her chest. “I’ve been a good slave for the last couple of days, haven’t I?”

“Better than I could’ve hoped for,” he said, smiling. “Especially after last night’s debacle.”

“I told you before- I don’t want to talk about it,” she replied, frowning. “Now give me my bag.”

“Not until you pay the toll,” he said, smirking.

“Okay, what’s the toll?” she asked, deciding she didn’t want to be late for school.

‘I’ll play his game… for now,’ she thought. ‘I can’t wait to be away from him for a few hours today. It should make things a little more… enjoyable. And being away will help me forget about last night. Yes, the amazing kissage we had. Spike lips… yummy lips of Spike… bad Buffy!’

“Give us a kiss,” he said, wiggling his eyebrows. Her jaw dropped a little before her eyes narrowed.

‘Pretend like you don’t want to kiss him,’ she quickly told herself. ‘Don’t want him to think you actually enjoyed it yesterday.’

“No,” she replied firmly.

“Then I guess you’re not getting your backpack,” he said, still keeping it away from her.

“Oh well,” she said, shrugging. “I guess I don’t really even need it. Not like I take books to class, and I know Willow will lend me paper and pens if I need them.” Spike frowned. “What’s wrong?”

“Won’t you just pay the toll?” he asked, pouting as she raised an eyebrow. “A little kiss, pet- that’s all I’m asking for.” She took a deep breath and walked over to him, gently pressing her lips to his for a moment before backing off and grabbing her backpack from him. He smiled at her. “That’s my girl.”

“I’m not your girl,” she replied, turning around and walking to the front door, opening it up and going outside to his car. Spike sighed and grabbed his car keys and backpack.

“Maybe not right now,” he said to himself. “But you will be.”

* * * * *

Pulling up in front of Sunnydale Academy, Spike watched as Buffy smoothed her skirt before reaching for her backpack.

“Did I ever tell you how adorable you look in that uniform?” he asked with a smirk.

Shooting him a skeptical look, Buffy rolled her eyes. “You’ve got to be kidding.”

“Not at all. In fact,” he said in a low voice, leaning over her and angling his head toward hers. “Downright sexy.”

“Spike,” she whispered, hating the breathless tone of her voice. “What are you doing?”

“What’s the matter?” he asked with a smile, subtly moving until his lips were almost brushing against hers. “Worried what might happen if you’re alone with me for too long?”

“No,” she said, swallowing nervously.

“Tell me you don’t think about it,” he continued in a whisper. “Think of how thrilling it could be…all we have to do is push up this skirt a little more and…”

Trying to control her breathing when she felt Spike’s hand on her thigh, Buffy suddenly realized that they were in the school parking lot where anyone and everyone could walk by at any moment.

“Stop it,” she said in a firm voice, pushing his hand away.

“Relax, pet,” Spike replied, leaning over her a little more until he could reach the door handle. “Just opening the door for you. No need to get bent out of shape about it.”

With a frustrated noise, Buffy shoved him away and jumped out of the car, not bothering to wait for him as she walked toward the school.

She should have known it was too easy.

“Little jumpy today, aren’t you?” Spike asked, easily matching strides with her.

“Don’t you ever get tired of it?” she asked, not bothering to slow down.

“What’s that?”

“Being you!”

“What’s there to be tired of?” he asked, following after her.

“Oh, that’s right,” Buffy said, rolling her eyes. “I forgot that Mr. Spike Lawson gets anything and everything he wants. New car? Right this way. Adoring females? Have all the airheads you want. Slave for a week? No problem.”

“Well, if that’s the way you feel about me…here,” he said, dropping his backpack into her hands.

“Ooomph. What the hell is this?”

“I get everything I want, right?” he asked, raising an eyebrow in irritation. “Well, there you go. You can have the privilege of carrying my books.”

“Isn’t this supposed to be the other way around?” Buffy asked through gritted teeth as she heaved the heavy bag onto her shoulder. “I thought the guy was supposed to carry the books for the girl.”

“Oh, now, we wouldn’t want that,” Spike replied in mock innocence, placing a hand over his heart. “What about ‘equal rights’ and everything else you bints are always spouting off on? Wouldn’t want to upset you by making you do something anti-feminist.”

“Did I ever say I was a feminist?” Buffy asked in irritation. “You bought me at an auction, for crying out loud!”

“Yes, but it was for charity,” he said with a kind smile. “I know you were just doing your part.”

Turning to walk away, Spike made it a few steps before looking over his shoulder and suppressing the chuckle as Buffy glared at him.

“Come on now, pet. Don’t want me to be late, do you?”

“You think I really care?” she asked, struggling to maintain both bags. “Go take a flying leap off the roof, for all I care.”

“Well, that was a little uncalled for,” he replied, adopting an upper-class accent as he bit his tongue to keep from laughing.

* * * * *

Walking into the lunchroom a few hours later, Buffy was thrilled that she’d been able to avoid Spike after the bell rang, saying that she needed to go to the restroom.

‘Stupid Auction Day,’ she grumbled silently. ‘And stupid Willow for forgetting to remind me I’d have to attend class with Captain Peroxide and cater to his every whim.’

Weaving her way through the crowd, Buffy took mild satisfaction in the fact that at least she wouldn’t have to worry about homework for the next week.

Waiting in line for a few minutes, she had just grabbed her tray when she heard the familiar voice that was rapidly grating on her nerves.

“Not trying to ditch me, are you, pet?”

“Whatever gave you that idea?” she asked through clenched teeth, not bothering to turn around as she grabbed a sandwich to put on her tray. Reaching for a fruit cup, she frowned when she looked at the tray to see a greasy piece of pizza sitting next to her chicken salad. “What the hell is this?”

“Pizza,” Spike replied, pronouncing the word carefully to make sure she understood.

“I know what it is.”

“Then why’d you ask?” he countered with a smirk.

Practically growling, Buffy whirled around to face him.

“Well, that wasn’t one of your best noises,” he said with wide eyes before leaning close to her. “I actually prefer the noises you were making last night.”

Stepping away from him with wide eyes, Buffy looked around frantically before hitting him in the chest, feeling a moderate sense of satisfaction when he winced. “Shut up about that. And you never answered my question,” she said, gesturing to the ever-growing pile of food on her tray.

“Part of the deal, Goldilocks. Carrying my lunch.”

“You have to be joking.”

“Nope,” he said with a grin. “Of course, if you prefer, I could carry my own lunch and let you have my bag again. Which I have been more than nice about carrying the last two classes.”

“It’s your damn bag!” she hissed.

“Yes,” he replied, giving her a shove until she was walking again. “And you’re my damn slave.”

Running her hands through her hair, Buffy groaned softly. “This is a nightmare.”

“Say the word, and I’ll make it a dream come true…for both of us,” he whispered in her ear, causing Buffy to spin around and shove him back several feet.

“Do you ever shut up, or do you just like listening to the sound of your own voice?”

“Don’t want to talk?” Spike asked with a shrug as he walked past her. “Fine with me. A little too hungry for conversation anyway. You remember where I sit, right?”

“If both of us survive the week, it will be a miracle.”

 

Chapter 13:

“So, how is it going with Spike?” Willow asked Buffy after their last class while they walked to their lockers.

“So well that the thought of driving off a cliff sounds like fun,” Buffy answered, stopping in front of her locker and entering the combination into her lock. “I can’t wait for this week to end.”

“It’s only Monday,” Willow said, raising an eyebrow, and Buffy rested her head against her locker door, shutting her eyes and sighing.

“Don’t remind me,” she said. “I wish you wouldn’t have convinced me to do this.”

“It was for charity,” Willow replied. “You were doing a good thing.”

“You’re not the one who has to deal with her ‘master’ at school,” Buffy said, putting some books into her locker. “Oz doesn’t go here. Hell, he isn’t even in high school!”

“It really could be worse,” Willow said, shrugging. “I mean, did you see Andrew and Faith at lunch today? I swear she was giving him a lap-dance.” Buffy giggled and shook her head. “And hey, Spike’s not abusive or anything, so that’s a plus. He’s just a jerk who enjoys things that are degrading to women.”

“Well, when you put it that way,” Buffy said sarcastically, looking at Willow and taking a deep breath. “You really owe me for this mess, by the way. I demand lots of ice cream and a girls’ night next week.”

“You’ve got it, buddy,” Willow said, smiling. “We’ll kick back in the company of popcorn, some Ben and Jerry’s, and a box of Kleenex for the depressing dramas we always watch.”

“That’s music to my ears,” Buffy said right before Spike appeared beside her, grinning.

“Hello, Summers,” he said, and Buffy shut her locker.

“Whereas that is not,” she replied, looking at him. “What is it?”

“Wow, pet, could you be less happy to see me?” he asked, pouting slightly.

“Want to find out?” she asked sharply, and he handed her his backpack. “Is this empty?”

“Not quite,” he answered. “Just the stuff you need to do my English essay for me.”

“What?” she asked loudly, her eyes widening.

“I have an English essay due tomorrow that needs to be done,” he replied, crossing his arms. “So it’s your job to complete it.”

“Like hell,” she answered. “That’s against school rules! I can’t do your paper for you, especially if it’s graded.”

“Hey, you should be surprised I’m even trusting you with it,” he said. “For all I know, you could purposely bollocks it up so I fail, but I’m giving you the benefit of the doubt.”

“That’s because you haven’t gotten a good grade on a paper for as long as I’ve known you,” Buffy said. “And I’ll have you know that I excel at writing, thank you very much.”

“I’ll leave you two alone,” Willow said, looking at Buffy. “I’ll see you tomorrow.”

“Bye, Will,” she said, giving her a small smile.

“Bye, Red,” Spike replied, giving her a small wave. “And thank you and your boy for driving her to my place the other night.” Willow looked between Buffy and Spike before smiling.

“It was our pleasure,” she said. “I’m just happy she didn’t kill you.” Spike watched Willow walk away with a surprised expression.

“Can we go home now?” Buffy asked quietly, looking away. “If I have to write this stupid essay, I’d like to get started on it soon.” He nodded, and they began to walk towards the door to leave. “What’s it supposed to be about?”

“Feminism,” Spike answered, smirking. “I figured you’d like to jump on that topic, especially since you seem like a girl who’d worship Betty Friedan.”

“Who?” Buffy asked, confused.

“The bird who wrote ‘The Feminine Mystique’,” he answered. She stopped walking and looked at him, smirking.

“Maybe you’re the one who likes women’s rights so much,” she said, tilting her head.

“I like women, I like rights- why can’t I like them both?” he asked, and she giggled. He smiled and opened the door for her. “Come on, luv- let’s get you home so you can BS your way through my paper.”

* * * * *

Buffy was sitting in front of his computer, researching information on Google, when Spike came in the room and sat on his bed, watching her.

“How’s it going?” he asked. “Have you started yet?”

“Since you haven’t been kind enough to show me any notes, I’ve had to look up stuff for the last hour,” she replied, annoyed. “So no, I haven’t started your stupid paper yet. At this rate, I won’t even be able to proofread it.” He chuckled. “What’s so funny?”

“You’re worried about proofreading?” he asked, and she frowned. “Why don’t you take a break or something, then?”

“And what task are you going to assign me if I decide to ‘take a break’?” she asked, looking over her shoulder at him, narrowing her eyes. He raised his hands in surrender.

“Why are you being so bloody defensive?” he asked. “I’m just trying to be nice.”

“I really doubt that,” she said, looking at the computer screen again. “You always have an ulterior motive.”

“That’s not true,” he replied, crossing his arms. “I can be a nice guy. I made you breakfast the other day, didn’t I?”

“After being a jerk,” she said, shrugging. “Example the first- of you being mean.”

“Fine,” he replied. “Don’t take a sodding break- I don’t bloody care. Exhaust yourself- that’s fine with me. Just as long as my paper gets finished.” He stood up and walked to the door before stopping and turning to look at her. “You know, Summers, I’d be a lot nicer to you if you didn’t always antagonize me or pick stupid fights. You always find little ways of setting me off, and sometimes it gets really old. I can sling as many barbs as I want towards you, but it doesn’t change things. It’d be nice for once if we could just go a day without having an argument or getting pissed off with one another. I mean, it probably won’t happen this week because you’re my slave and have to obey me, but-”

“I swear you get off hearing yourself speak,” Buffy cut in, looking at him.

“I get off all kinds of ways,” he replied, instantly grinning. “Want to see?” She glared at him before grabbing a book beside her and throwing it at him. He caught it before it could hit him and chuckled. “What? I was making you a generous offer.”

“‘Generous’?” she asked, raising an eyebrow. “I don’t need an STD, thanks.”

“I’m clean, luv,” he said with a frown. “Besides, we’d have to shag, and I have a feeling you won’t let me pry apart your dimpled knees.” Her jaw dropped as she stared at him. “What?” She stood up and walked over to him, slapping him across the face. He clenched his jaw before looking at her.

“I hate you,” she said in a low tone. He smirked a little, despite the pain in his cheek.

“I hate you, too,” he replied. “But, luv, if you want to play rough, that’s fine. I wouldn’t mind a bit.” She pushed him back, and he stumbled backwards, out of the room. She instantly slammed his door and locked it, satisfied when she heard him pounding on the door. “Let me back in, pet.”

“Hell no,” she said. “I’ve got to work on your damn paper and can’t focus when you keep yammering on and driving me insane!”

“I swear I’ll break down this door, Buffy,” he said sternly, pounding harder on his door, getting angrier by the second.

“You’ll just make me fix it,” she said quietly before sighing. “Go away, Spike.” He growled and turned on his heel, storming down the hallway and going downstairs. Anne walked into the house and smiled at her son.

“How’s it going, William?” she asked, and he clenched his fists.

“I hate women,” he answered, walking out the front door and getting into his car. Anne watched him in amusement before shaking her head.

“Kids these days,” she said before scouring through the stack of mail she was holding.

* * * * *

“Did you finish?” Spike asked, not bothering to spare Buffy a glance as she slammed the car door behind her the next morning.

“What do you think?” she asked, putting on a pair of sunglasses and looking out the window, wanting nothing more than to ignore him for the rest of the day.

Fat chance of that happening.

“Where is it?”

“In a folder in my bag,” she replied in an irritated voice.

“I don’t know what crawled up your ass and died, but did it ever occur to you to try and be nice? Not often- I know that would be a little too hard for you to comprehend- but once in a blue moon, it could be a good change.”

“Nice?” she asked in a low voice, gritting her teeth as she slowly turned her head to look at him. “You expect me to be nice, Mr. Hot and Cold? You’re a walking contradiction! One minute you can be as happy as can be and the next you’re biting my head off or playing the ‘master’ card. Did it ever occur to you, Spike, that I’m an actual person? I know that’s a little difficult for your brain to understand, but you never know- it could be a good change!” she cried, throwing his words back at him before turning to face the window again.

“So what’s the problem of the hour now?”

“I thought I just covered that,” she muttered under her breath. “You. You are always my problem.”

“That’s a little vague,” Spike said, slamming on the brakes at a stoplight before turning to look at her. “Narrow it down.”

“Alright,” Buffy replied, turning her body toward him. “My problems- would you like them in order of irritation or alphabetically? For example- asshole. That would be you. Point of fact, that would fall in both categories as my number one. The letter ‘B’- bastard. Shall I go on?”

“I’ve got another word for that letter,” Spike growled, hitting the gas as the light turned green.

“But there’s the funny thing, Spike,” she said with a smile. “I know I’m a bitch. That’s the difference between you and me. Yeah, I’ve done some things to you lately that wouldn’t exactly win me the ‘Friendliest’ award when the yearbooks come out, but I know who I am. But you? You’re so twofaced, you don’t even realize it. You look in the mirror and all you see is yourself. You don’t take one look at the people around you unless it benefits your reputation or your grade.”

“What the hell are you talking about?” he asked in a low voice.

“Let me ask you something, Spike. If you bid on and won Faith in that auction, what would you expect her to do? You? Because, and I’m just guessing here, the purchase that you made, namely me, was just a way for you to benefit somehow. And since I’m obviously not one for giving guys a ‘good time’ like so many of the other girls in this school, you wanted two things: to irritate the hell out of me and to get me to do your homework. That’s what I’m good for, right?”

Not giving him a chance to respond as he pulled into a parking space in front of the school, Buffy jumped out of the car and began walking away.

“Buffy-”

“Do me a favor!” she yelled back, turning around to face him as she walked backwards. “Carry your own damn bag today.”

* * * * *

Avoiding Spike for the entire morning, Buffy spent her time in the girls’ restroom and the library, knowing that he wouldn’t set foot in there.

Sitting at one of the large wooden tables during her lunch period, she frowned when her stomach growled.

“No food for you,” she muttered, looking down at her belly. “Don’t be a traitor. Food is not worth running into him.”

Busying herself by going through her backpack, Buffy frowned when she saw the paper that was supposed to be turned in before lunch.

‘Let him fail,’ the evil little voice in her head whispered. ‘He had it coming and he should have done it himself.’

‘But you worked hard on it,’ the good voice reasoned. ‘And it is rather impressive. The teacher will definitely take notice of this one.’

“Stupid good voice,” she muttered to herself, standing up from her seat and collecting her things. “So you drop the paper off and then spend the rest of the day avoiding Spike. Sounds like a plan.”

* * * * *

Walking through the halls after school, Spike nearly growled as he searched for Buffy.

“It figures,” he muttered. “She’s excused from her classes, so she skips the entire day.”

Not that he could blame her. He would have done the same thing if he’d been in her position, but he was already pissed off at the way she’d left things that morning.

“William!”

Not bothering to turn around at the unfamiliar voice and the fact that he never went by his given name, Spike continued to look through the halls for Buffy.

“William!”

Finally turning around with a frown on his face, it only deepened when he saw Ms. Calendar walking toward him.

“Good, I was hoping you hadn’t left for the day,” she said with a friendly smile. “I just wanted to let you know that Buffy dropped off your paper for you. You should have told me that you left it at home and she went to get it.”

Spike arched an eyebrow. “Uh…yeah…sorry about that, but I didn’t know if she’d be able to find it in my room.”

“Well, that’s fine and I wanted to let you know that it was an exceptional piece of work. I’ve never read anything so insightful that was written by one of my students, and I want you to know that I’m just honored you felt compelled to write about such an important topic that is obviously a big deal for you. I’ve already graded yours- I didn’t want it to be seen by anyone who might not understand,” she said, handing him the paper.

“Right,” he said softly. “Thanks.”

Waiting until Ms. Calendar walked away, Spike looked at the cover page, not seeing anything that would give away that he didn’t write the paper. Flipping over the first page, he read the brief synopsis.

A feminist point of view,
looked at from the
homosexual male perspective.

By William Lawson

Feeling short of breath, Spike crumpled the paper in his hand as a red haze entered his vision.

“I’ll kill her.”
 

Chapter 14:

When Spike stormed into his house about twenty minutes later, he slammed the door behind him.

“Buffy!” he yelled upstairs, not bothering to hide the anger in his tone. He heard someone walking around upstairs and knew it wasn’t his mother because it was too early for her to be home. “Get your ass down here right now!”

Buffy had been preparing for the last half an hour for a screaming match, ever since she left school and walked home. She smiled to herself as she left her guest room and walked to the top landing of the stairs.

“What’s up?” she asked, pretending to not know why he seemed so furious.

“Don’t play dumb,” he replied sharply, crossing his arms. “Where do I even start?”

“How about with why you’re about to pop a vein in your neck?” she asked, smirking. He narrowed his eyes at her, and she raised her hands in surrender. “What? Are you going to make me guess or something?”

“What the hell kind of paper did you turn in to Ms. Calendar?” he asked sternly as she smiled and looked down. “She thinks I’m gay!”

“What’s wrong with being gay?” Buffy asked, tilting her head. “I think people should be free to love whoever they want, right?” He clenched his jaw. “Are you homophobic or something, Spike?”

“No!” he snapped, throwing his hands up. “Why the hell did you write a paper like that? Ms. Calendar thinks I’m gay, and if she tells anyone about it, I’m screwed because it’ll spread like wildfire.”

“So what if it does?” Buffy asked, crossing her arms. “It’s not like it’s a big deal, Spike. I’m sure all of the girls you’ve ‘shagged’ in the past will come forward to attest that you’re indeed not gay. Besides, the only person who saw it was Ms. Calendar, and she’s not the type of person to spread stuff like that around. Get over it.”

“‘Get over it’?” he hissed, clenching his fists. “I’m not going to just forget something like this!”

“Yeah, me either,” she grinned, leaning back against a wall. “Anything else you feel like screaming at me for? I’m in the middle of watching ‘Oprah’.”

“Sod Oprah,” he replied sternly. “Where the hell were you all day? I looked for you and never saw you.”

“Were you worried about me? I’m touched,” she said, putting her hand over her heart and widening her eyes.

“No, I needed to talk to you about what happened this morning,” he said, approaching the stairs. “You can’t just say the stuff you did and walk away from the situation like it was nothing.”

“But it was nothing,” she replied. “I said what I needed to say- end of story.”

“More like end of chapter,” he said, slowly walking up the stairs. “We should talk.”

“I said everything I needed to say,” she replied. “Let me reiterate- the only thing you care about is yourself, Spike, and don’t try to convince me otherwise because I know better than to trust some bullshit you spout off to make yourself seem like a good guy. We both know that you bought me just to mess with me and make me feel inferior to you, and hey- already there. I think I’ve done enough for you already this week, and if I haven’t paid off my debt to you, then oh well. I want out.”

“Not gonna happen,” he said, finally making it to the stop of the stairs and standing directly in front of her. He wasn’t surprised that she didn’t take a step back when he was merely inches away from her.

‘The girl doesn’t know when to stand down, does she?’ he thought. ‘Bloody stubborn bint.’

“Fine, tell me what you want me to do for the rest of the week,” she said, looking up at him. “Give me a list, and I’ll do every task you assign me. But when I’m done with them, I’m leaving. I’m better than this, no matter what you say or how you treat me. I’m a person, too, and I’m sick of being treated like I’m nothing.”

“I don’t treat you like that,” he replied defensively.

“Sometimes, yes, you do,” she said. “But sometimes, even if it’s for a brief second, you treat me like I actually matter. So tell me, Spike, if I really do matter, then why do you always act like I’m insignificant?” He looked into her eyes and then at her lips for a moment. She unconsciously licked them and raised an eyebrow when he leaned closer to her. She put her hands on his chest and pushed him back. “Don’t you dare.”

“Stop me,” he said, wrapping his arms around her waist and pressing his lips to hers. She paused for a moment, reveling in the feeling of his lips on hers, before biting his bottom lip. He growled and backed off, looking at her. “What the hell was that for?”

“To stop you,” she answered, turning on her heel and going to her room, closing and locking the door behind her.

“What the hell does it take?” he yelled, surprised when he heard something hit her door. “You better hope you didn’t just break something.”

“Even if I did, you’d just make me glue it back together!” she shot back. “So just shut up!”

Sitting down on the bed and looking outside, Buffy sighed, feeling as if she was in prison.

‘I’ve got to get out of here,’ she thought sadly. ‘I can’t take much more of this.’

* * * * *

“William, why isn’t Buffy eating dinner with us?” Anne asked as she looked across the dining room table at her son. He shrugged and continued to push things around on his plate with his fork. “Is my cooking really that horrible that you’re picking at it and she won’t even attempt to eat?”

He smiled softly and looked at his mother. “Course not, Mum.”

“Then tell me what’s going on between you two.”

“I’m a jerk who doesn’t know when to stop hurting her,” he admitted, sighing. “She hates me, Mum.”

“Have you apologized?” she asked, studying him.

“Every time I try to, she freaks out on me,” he said. “If I actually get a chance to say the words, she doesn’t believe me or doesn’t seem to want to forgive me.”

“Can you blame her?” Anne asked, causing him to frown. “Why don’t you try talking to her again? I doubt she’ll scream at you if I’m in the house.” He smiled and nodded. “I’ll fix her a plate of food and you can take it up to her. She’s already skin and bones, and I don’t want to send her home looking like a skeleton. I doubt her mother would appreciate it.” Anne stood up and walked into the kitchen while Spike cleared off the table. She gave him a tray of food and smiled softly. “Don’t mess things up with her, William. She deserves a good man.” He saw a twinkle in his mother’s eye and smirked.

“Yes, ma’am,” he replied, going to the stairs and taking a deep breath before walking up and stopping to stand in front of Buffy’s door. He knocked and waited for her to open it. When it didn’t happen, he frowned and knocked again.

“What do you want?” Buffy finally asked, opening the door and looking at him. He looked down at the tray, and her eyes followed his gaze before she smiled a little. “You’re bringing me food?”

“Mum thought you’d like something to eat,” he said, giving her the tray and putting his hands in his pockets before taking another deep breath. “And I agreed.”

“Thanks,” she said quietly, walking towards her bed and sitting down on it, putting the tray down in front of her. “Thank her for me, too, please.”

“I know you hate me, pet, but you can leave your room,” he replied, leaning against the doorframe. “I’m sure my mum would like to see you and be… motherly.” She raised an eyebrow. “She likes you- I think she’d enjoy being in your company for a while.”

“I’ll go down there when I’m done eating,” Buffy said, and he nodded, turning to walk across the hall to his room. “Spike?” He looked back at her. “Thanks again.”

“You’re welcome,” he said, managing a small smile before leaving her alone. She sighed and looked down at her food.

‘It’s a small olive branch,’ she thought. ‘But it’s a start.’

* * * * *

After spending an hour with Anne, without any sign of Spike, Buffy decided to broach the subject.

“Is Spike still here?” she asked, avoiding the older woman’s gaze as she pretended to smooth her shirt.

“He’s upstairs,” Anne said with an easy smile. “He said he didn’t want to bother you anymore today. Maybe you should go talk to him,” she added, biting her lip to keep from giggling as Buffy looked at the stairs with a wistful expression.

“Yeah,” she agreed, standing up. “I guess I should, since I am his slave and all.”

Both women laughed as Buffy began walking up the stairs. Slowly walking down the hallway, she paused outside his door. Closing her eyes as nerves seemed to take her over, she shook her head.

“This is ridiculous,” she muttered, quickly knocking on the door before she could back down.

“Come in.”

Opening the door, Buffy refrained from biting her lip as she walked through the door, seeing Spike lying on his bed.

“Evenin’, pet,” Spike said with a gentle smile.

“Hi,” she replied, trying to return the smile as she hesitated to shut the door behind her.

“Something you needed?” he asked, sitting up a little bit and hitting the mute button on the TV.

“No,” she said quickly, shaking her head as another case of nerves began fluttering in her stomach. “Actually, I was just wondering if you needed anything,” she continued before gesturing to herself. “Slave-girl, remember?”

Looking down for a moment, Spike fiddled with the remote in his hand, unable to meet her gaze. “You can stop calling yourself that,” he said softly. “That’s not what you are.”

“Held here against my will, doing chores and homework for no pay…I think that’s the definition of slave labor,” she said with a smile as she tried to relax him.

Deciding to drop the subject, Spike pushed himself up on the bed, leaning against the headboard. “Care to join me?” he asked, gesturing toward the television.

“That’s okay,” she said, backing toward the door.

“It’s fine, luv. Plenty of room on the bed.”

“Spike, you and me on a bed aren’t exactly the mixiest things.”

“I don’t bite, Buffy,” he replied before giving her a wide smile. “Much. I recall that title belonging to you.”

Flushing under his gaze, she stared at her feet as she restlessly kicked at the carpet. “You deserved it,” she muttered.

“We’ll watch a movie,” he said, leaning back and relaxing before arching an eyebrow in her direction. “Maybe I could get a repeat performance of the massage from the other night.”

“Yeah, that never really ends well, does it?” she replied, crossing her arms over her chest.

“It did the other night,” he said in a husky voice, sighing when Buffy turned toward the door. “I’m kidding! Well, not really, it did end well, but I’m just watching a movie, pet.”

“Promise?” she asked with a smile.

“Cross my heart,” he replied, doing what he said as Buffy giggled.

Watching him move over on the bed, she hesitantly stepped forward and sat down, keeping her back rigid as Spike turned the volume up.

Looking over at her stiff posture, he laughed. “Maybe I should be the one giving you the massage.”

Glancing over at him, Buffy hesitantly smiled before turning back to the movie. Shaking his head, Spike moved closer to her on the bed, gently running his hands along her back and sighing when she jumped.

“Relax,” he murmured, massaging the knots out of her back and smiling as she leaned into him. “Told you I wouldn’t bite.”

Buffy moaned softly as he continued to work his magic on her muscles. Staying silent for several minutes while he continued to ease the tension out of her, Spike smiled in contentment, enjoying the simple act of doing something for her without expecting anything in return.

“See?” he said with a soft smile, leaning away from her when he finished, much to Buffy’s disappointment. “I can control myself.”

Turning around to face him, Buffy let a nervous smile play on her lips as she tucked a lock of hair behind her ear. “You have to control yourself around me?” she asked shyly.

“Pleading the fifth,” Spike replied, turning his attention back to the TV, trying not to smile at the disappointed look on her face.

Finally relaxing, Buffy leaned back against the headboard, letting her shoulder gently brush against Spike’s before frowning when she felt like she was sitting on something.

Reaching beneath her, she suppressed a smile as she withdrew a Victoria’s Secret catalogue. Seeing Spike’s eyes widen at her findings, she couldn’t help but giggle.

“Um…not mine?” he said, making it sound like a question.

“Really?” she asked, looking at the cover and seeing William Lawson on the address label and slowly pointing to it as she giggled again.

“Right…uh…that’s not what it looks like?”

“You sure?” she asked. “Because I’m thinking…cross-dresser in your spare time?” Her laughter trailed off as Spike’s face turned bright red. “Oh God, you’re not, are you?”

“No!” he cried, grabbing the magazine and throwing it across the room. “Bloody hell, no!”

“Well, that’s a relief that you were just looking at it,” she said, throwing herself back against his pillows again. “Or should I be concerned with the bodily fluids that might be on this bed?” she asked, suddenly becoming extremely still as she looked at the blankets out of the corner of her eye.

Finally laughing, Spike shook his head. “You’re safe, pet. You think I want to sleep in that?”

“Um…ew.”

Rolling toward her, Spike draped an arm over her stomach in case she decided to try and run away. “I’d much rather have a…destination for things like that.”

Smacking him on the chest, Spike quickly caught her arms and pinned them above her head before lowering his lips to hers in a tender kiss. Neither making a move to deepen it, Buffy let her eyes close, allowing herself to enjoy the simple affection that he was showing her.

Pulling away after a moment that was too short for both of them, Spike gave her a gentle smile as he brushed the hair off her forehead. “’S’all I wanted,” he whispered, letting his eyes drift back and forth between her eyes and her lips. “Whatever you’re willing to give.”
 

Chapter 15 – The Feeling’s…Close to Mutual


The next morning, Buffy and Spike met up in the kitchen before school. He watched her as she put her lunch into her backpack. She felt his eyes on her and blushed slightly as she looked at him.

“What’s wrong?” she asked. “Is my shirt on backwards or something?”

“No, it’s fine,” he replied before smirking. “Although, it’d look even better if it was off.” She grabbed an apple from a bowl on the counter and threw it at him. He caught it and took a bite out of it. “Was just being honest, luv.”

“I know,” she said, grabbing her backpack and grabbing an apple for herself. “Ready to head out?”

“After you,” he said, ushering her out and watching her hips sway as she walked ahead of him. She raised an eyebrow as she saw him looking at her out of the corner of her eye.

“I know you want a piece of my ass, Spike, but do you really need to stare at it like that?” she asked jokingly. He chuckled and opened her car door for her.

“Just admiring a beautiful sight,” he replied. She got in the car and giggled to herself as he walked around the car to get in on his side. “So, did you sleep well last night?”

“Yeah,” she answered as he started his car. “Did you?”

“Yep,” he said, smiling as he reversed down the driveway. “Had a dream about you.” She smiled and looked at him, intrigued.

“Did you really?” she asked, tilting her head. “And what exactly happened in this dream?”

“You’d blush if I told you,” he replied, laughing, and she looked outside again. “But you look really sexy when you blush, so I’ll tell you.” She put her hand up to stop him.

“No, please don’t,” she said quickly. “I don’t want to know.”

“Fine,” he said, shrugging. “But let me just say that dream-Buffy was one hell of a ride.” She plugged her ears, humming loudly, and he chuckled. “Oh, come on- wouldn’t you rather be a sex kitten than a frigid prude?”

“What? No,” she said before sighing and looking down. “Yes, I’d rather be a sex kitten.” She giggled and looked at him. “A randy sex kitten who could shag your brains out.” He groaned and closed his eyes for a moment at the imagery. “Spike! Pole!” He quickly swerved before he could jump a curb and hit a light-pole. “Sorry! I should know better than to distract you with something like that.”

“But at least I’d die with a nice thought in my head,” he said, smirking as he continued to drive towards school.

* * * * *

Before lunch, Buffy went to her locker to grab her bagged lunch, only to be stopped by Spike in the hallway.

“Is something wrong?” she asked as she continued to walk, stopping in front of her locker.

“I was thinking maybe we could eat together today,” he replied, and she looked at him, surprised.

“Why?” she asked as she narrowed her eyes. “Are you setting me up for a fall or something? Or are your friends going to mess with me?”

“No,” he answered, leaning back against the locker beside hers. “I was thinking we could eat outside. It’s a nice day out.”

“And you need a smoking break,” she said, smiling softly as he nodded vigorously.

“It’s been a long day so far,” he replied. “So, up for it?”

“Sure,” she said. “Have your lunch with you?” she asked, waiting until he nodded. “Alright, just one minute.” She opened her locker, grabbed her lunch, and shut her locker again before following him outside towards one of the picnic tables scattered on one of the lawns. They sat across from one another and opened their lunches. “So, how’d the first half of today go, besides it being long?”

“Had a test,” he answered, shrugging. “Didn’t study. Too busy with you last night.” She smiled and opened her diet soda. “But I guess it hasn’t been that bad.” He pulled his lighter out of his pocket before grabbing his cigarettes.

“So, what’s on my task list today?” she asked curiously, taking a sip of her soda. He blew out a stream of smoke and shrugged.

“I don’t know,” he answered. “How about washing my car? She looks pretty dirty when the sun hits her just right.”

“Okay,” Buffy said, nodding. “It’s a nice enough day out to wash it, I guess.”

“In a smashing little bikini, maybe?” he asked, wiggling his eyebrows. She smiled.

“What will I get out of it if I do?” she asked, grabbing her sandwich.

“A tan?” he suggested, and she giggled. “Maybe I’ll even help you.”

“That’s just because you want to be close to me when I’m that scantily clad,” she replied before frowning. “And I bet you’re going to try to get me wet, aren’t you?” He grinned.

“It’s always my mission, luv,” he replied suggestively. “I’d love to get you wet.” She quickly blushed and ducked her head. “God, I love that.”

* * * * *

After school, Willow walked with Buffy to her locker so they could catch up.

“So, how’s it going with Spike?” Willow asked as Buffy opened her locker. “Is he getting nicer?”

“Yeah, I think we squared away some things, so it’s getting better,” Buffy said. “A squabble here and there, but all in all, it could really be worse.”

“Good,” Willow said. “I’m glad he’s easing off a little.” Buffy nodded, putting away her textbooks.

“So, how’s it going with Oz?” she asked curiously. “Are you two on the train to wriggly town?”

“What?” Willow asked, her eyes widening as she blushed crimson. “No! Not at all. There will be no…wriggling.” Buffy giggled and shook her head. “I have morals, you know.”

“Fine, fine,” Buffy said, closing her locker. “But you’re going to date him after this week, right?” Willow nodded, smiling excitedly. “Good. He’s a great guy.” Willow saw Spike approaching and smiled.

“Yeah, Oz is great,” she agreed. “So is Spike.” He smiled at her, stopping to stand behind Buffy so she couldn’t see him.

“Yeah, he’s a handful,” Buffy said, and Spike chuckled. She whirled around and looked at him, surprised to see him there.

“If you want ‘a handful’ of me, pet, just ask,” he said, smirking when she blushed. “Ready to go home?”

“Yeah,” Buffy said, nodding. “See you tomorrow, Will.” Willow nodded and watched the two blondes walk away.

‘If anyone’s on the train to wriggly town, it’s those two,’ she thought before walking to her locker.
 

Chapter 16 – Sexy Suds


Looking at herself in the mirror, Buffy almost rolled her eyes at her reflection.

“I must be insane,” she said, taking in her white string bikini. “Sane girls wouldn’t have brought a swimsuit to their enemy’s house…of course, he’s not really my enemy anymore and when he has a pool that you can benefit from after washing his car…stop talking to yourself, Summers. You really are insane.”

Walking out of the bathroom, she quickly grabbed a towel and wrapped it around her midsection, unwilling to show off anymore skin than she had to on her way outside.

Slipping past Spike’s bedroom unseen, Buffy made her way downstairs and through to the back of the house. Reaching the sliding glass door, she was nearly outside when she heard the familiar voice.

“Thought you’d slip out, did you, pet?”

“What?” she asked, turning around with an innocent expression. “Of course not. Just wanted to get a head start on the heavy labor, that’s all.”

“You’re not going to fool me with that girl next door look, Summers. Feeling a little shy?”

“Shy? Me?” she asked with a raised eyebrow and a smirk. “Never.”

Spike’s eyes widened when he found himself holding the towel that had been wrapped around her, leaving her in nothing but a few scraps of cloth. Feeling his cock grow painfully hard as she turned and confidently walked out the door, Spike watched as her hips tantalizing swayed back and forth.

Buffy continued to walk down the curving path to the car, which Spike had so thoughtfully pulled to the back of the house, next to the water hose. She could practically feel him smiling as she reached down to grab the bucket on her way to the water spigot on the side of the pool-house.

“Anyone ever tell you, you’re a tease?” he called after her.

“No, but I remember a certain blonde menace calling me a minx,” Buffy yelled back with a grin.

Not willing to miss this show, Spike walked out the back door and down to the car, barely holding back a moan when she leaned over to pick up the filled bucket. Licking his lips before biting his bottom lip, he let his gaze peruse her body as the sun warmed both of them.

“You just gonna stand there and watch?” she asked, throwing a glance over her shoulder and seeing the lust-filled look he was giving her.

“Don’t have anything better to do,” he replied, crossing his arms over his chest as he leaned against the car.

“Well,” she said, making sure to draw out the word as she bent over to pick up the garden hose. “If you’re going to do nothing but stand by and try and catch a show, I may as well get one of my own.”

Spike’s brows barely had a chance to furrow before a stream of water hit him in the chest, splattering water droplets all over him and soaking his t-shirt. Looking down in shock when the water stopped, he vaguely heard Buffy begin giggling. “Now you’ve done it,” he said, looking up at her with a devilish expression before stripping off his shirt. “This means war, Summers.”

Throwing his shirt at her, Buffy squealed as the cold fabric slapped against her heated skin.

“Spike!” she shrieked as it fell to the ground. “You didn’t have to…”

Trailing off when she saw Spike bend over, her mouth went dry as she watched his glistening muscles flex before her eyes widened as she realized what he was doing.

“Spike, don’t you dare!” she cried, holding the nozzle of the hose as if it was a gun, feeling her heart begin to race as he stalked toward her with the bucket of water. “I’m sorry, okay?” she continued.

“You know…it’s funny, Summers. You don’t sound sorry at all…just a little bit desperate.”

Running around the car, Buffy sent a spray of water in his direction before giggling as he chased after her. Stopping with a sudden jerk of her arm, she quickly looked over her shoulder, feeling her heart race when she saw the hose hooked under the tire.

“Buffy.”

Hearing her whispered name, she didn’t have time to think as she turned back around, gasping when a blast of water hit her in the chest as Spike emptied half the bucket on her. Holding her arms out to her sides as she felt the rivulets running along her skin, the proud look on Spike’s face didn’t go unnoticed.

Setting the bucket down at his feet, he slowly stalked toward her, using the opportunity of her still being in shock to pin her against the car with one arm on each side of her body.

“Knew I’d love you all wet, sweetheart,” he murmured, bending low to let his tongue trail along her collarbone, gathering up the moisture on her skin.

“Spike,” she whispered, waiting until he looked up at her before wrapping her arms around his neck and crushing her lips to his. Pulling away after a minute, Buffy looked up at him, breathing heavily as she stared into his eyes. “I should really get started,” she continued, slipping under his arm and grabbing the sponge off the ground.

Spike stayed where he was for a solid minute. What was left of the blood in his brain was wondering where the warm, pliant body had gone. The part of his brain that had rushed south with his blood, was making itself rapidly known that she wouldn’t get out of this that easily.

Turning to look at her, Spike bit his tongue to keep from moaning as she stretched her body along the hood of the car. Watching as she used the sponge to scrub the paint, he slowly walked over to her, pressing his erection against her lower back and smiling when she immediately froze.

“Wh-what are you doing?” she asked, standing up a little straighter when she felt his hand wrap around her waist. Closing his eyes as his fingertips drifted along her flat stomach, Spike felt his jaw clench when her hips slowly arched toward his hand, seeking out his touch.

“I know what I’m doing,” he whispered, kissing along the line of her neck. “I just don’t know what you’re doing to me.”

Letting her head fall back to his shoulder, Buffy felt her breathing accelerate when his fingers ran over the triangle of fabric that barely offered any coverage. “What do you mean?” she asked, closing her eyes as her stomach clenched in anticipation.

“Never felt this way before,” he murmured, leaving a soft bite on her shoulder.

Hearing the sound of the zipper on his jeans being lowered, the last thing Buffy expected was for her body to automatically arch against his. Her heart was slamming in her chest in expectation of what was to come. Feeling his hands brush her swimsuit out of the way, she slowly leaned forward and braced her hands against the hood of the car, causing Spike to grow impossibly hard at the simple act of acceptance.

Closing her eyes as his cock searched for her entrance, Buffy arched her hips toward him, gasping when she felt him practically slam into her. Gripping the front of the car and bending over a little more to allow him better access, Buffy cried out in pleasure when Spike nearly pulled out of her, only to thrust into her again.

Feeling her body trembling in his arms as she stood up a little straighter, Spike held her close for a moment, letting each of them enjoy the simple rocking motions of their hips moving together before he began to lengthen his thrusts, sending another shiver of lust racing through her body

“Harder,” she gasped.

Nearly coming from the simple request, Spike gripped her hips firmly in his hands, plunging into her with renewed force. Listening to her soft cries and whimpers of pleasure, he could feel himself losing control and knew he wouldn’t last much longer.

Reaching around with one hand, he trailed his fingertips along her body until he was gently stroking her clit. Adding more pressure when he felt her body shake and her inner muscles begin to clench around him, Spike practically slammed into her as his fingers caused a vibration to spiral through her.

Falling forward with the force of her orgasm, Spike continued his ministrations until she felt a more powerful climax overwhelm her.

Watching as she bent over his car, Spike felt the intensity of his orgasm crash into him, feeling as if his cock was exploding as he emptied himself within her welcoming body.

Swallowing heavily as she came back down to earth, Buffy refrained from jumping up as she let her eyes close for a moment.

‘What have I done?’

 

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