Chapter 18 My Juvenile Delinquent

Some how in some bizarre world Dawn was able to force her to go to the mall and buy her some of the supplies she needed for the contest that weekend. Since Sunnydale was a small town she suggested that they walk to the mall instead of driving. Here she was walking up to the rotating doors of the establishment with William in tow. Her mom had to start early in the gallery that morning and probably would be late because of all the new shipment. Since Dawn insisted that they both have nothing else better to do and why not show William again the nice old town of SunnyD which of course included passing by the mall and buying her art materials. And it’s not like she could complain, a whole day with Spike can’t be bad.

As they walked their way to the mall he stared in astonishment about how different small towns like Sunnydale are. You hardly see any cars, and the streets were probably deserted, one would think that the apocalypse is boiling up and everybody is under their beds hiding. The last time William came to Sunnydale he and Buffy went to the park and that was a weekend, so he assumed that this is what small towns were like. Very much unlike the City of Angels he was use to, and the busy town of England where he had spent much of his childhood. No wonder Buffy missed it. It was a little peaceful town except the small fights here or there by the neighbors which made it have a more American feel.

“So, where do you want to go first?” he heard Buffy ask. He looked at the scene presented before him, “There really isn’t much to see.” She continued, and he can’t help but agree. The mall was not even one of a quarter of the malls in the big city, “it only gets crowded usually during Christmas.” She added. He just nodded his head.

“So, you wanna buy Dawn things first or look around, cause trust me the SunnyD mall has not much things to offer.” She said with a laugh. She heard him say that he really didn’t mind where to go first so she guessed it all up to her. ‘First stop! The bookstore.’

Buffy was walking into the store walking pass the several aisles that laid an assortment of books. From children’s books to how to fix things that she never dared touch in her house. William dragged to one of the aisles that presented American bestselling novels. “Have you ever read ‘Angels and Demons’, it’s really a good book. You must read it.” He asked her as he rummaged through the shelves. ‘The angels and what?’ she wondered, “I’m not really much of a reader, more or a watcher.” She said to the walking form of him as he turned another aisle. “Never really liked reading, unless it was required for school. God! How I hated book reports.”

“It’s really a big loss on you, pet. Reading is not only entertaining but educational. You should try it, you might just enjoy it.” He turned another corner and left her also rummaging through the shelves. ‘Chicken Soup for the Soul?’ she silently read. In the back of her mind she thought she heard of chicken soup for the colds but for the soul, that’s just weird as she placed the book back on the rack. “Okay, I know something that you might like to read.” He called on to Buffy in a teasing voice.

She tried to follow the sound of him as she turned every aisle. Just then she felt a familiar presence near her but before she could turn around an offending hand sprawled a ‘Scooby Doo’ comic right at her face. “So... what you think, luv. You like?” as Buffy turned to him an annoyed face evident.

“Oh! How dare you mock me like that!” she stared at him hands on her hips.

“Well, you do love it right?” he asked, smirk in his handsome feature.

Buffy scowled at him, “at least I don’t like PASSIONS!” she half shouted in his ear.

Now it was his turn to look offended, “It’s a classic!” he defended. “A lot of people are big fans of it, if I may say.”

“Yeah.” She rolled her eyes, “hundred year old women!”

“Child!” he hit back at her.

“Oldie!”

“I am not that old!” he said annoyed and started chasing after her ready to tickle the ‘the three year old’ until she screamed her heart out.

After a lot of laughing and her stomach aching in desperate need to pry away the offending hands of a certain blonde. One of the managers actually came out and threatened them to be thrown out of the mall if they don’t stop their childish actions. She and William had listened on his on rambling about mall policy but as soon as he was out of ear shot Buffy had laughed her heart out and William teased her of being a juvenile delinquent and there goes the chasing again.

Finally they reached the art section and Buffy grabbed a basket in one of the many stack, she pulled out a piece of paper that contained the list, that according to her sister was quote the most important thing you should never leave the house without today or else unquote. She looked at the list, nothing special. She’d be out here in no time. As she searched through the stacks for the specific brand of paint that Dawn insisted she reeeealy reeeeealy needed specifically. She scanned the store and couldn’t seem to find the blonde anywhere in sight. She began to stock up on some paint, brushes and pallets. ‘Where the hell is he?’ she asked herself.

William was walking around the bookstore browsing through the different aisles; Buffy was by the art section getting the things Dawn needed. In a little corner he spotted a row of small tables with little kids in them who seemed to be painting some kind of ceramic rock. He then decided to look for Buffy and tell her about his new discovery.

“Oh! There you are, where have you been?” she asked him. He was staring in a corner which seemed to lay a couple of small tables and chairs. “What you looking at?” She looked over his shoulder, needing to stand on her toes. “Oooo... ceramic painting!”

“What’s this about, pet?” he asked, never taking his eyes of the little children who seemed to be having a lot of fun painting.

“Well, it’s sort of a small little place where moms would leave their children and shop by the mall. Like a nursery or something!” she explained as he tugged on his hand. “C’mon, let’s go.”

“Wait. I want to try it out.”

“What?” he walked over the small barrier where the tables were aligned. “Reminiscing you childhood, are you, Spike?” she teased but followed him in.

He dismissed her comment and seated at one of the chairs and got a ceramic stone and some paint brush then started painting. She looked at him in shocked, ‘what is he a kid?’ but she herself sat across from him and mimicked his actions. ‘What the hell, painting’s fun.’

“Mine looks way better than yours.” Buffy looked at his handiwork, a black? tree with a little man standing underneath comparing it into her purple butterfly.

“Huh, look at your insect thing, it’s too purple.”

“No it’s not.” Looking at her ceramic figure fully covered in purple paint. “Like yours is better, hello? Black tree?”

“It’s metaphoric, like a dark world controlling over the man underneath.”

“Almost believable... NOT!” out of no where a very offending brush covered in neon green was suddenly found all over her left cheek. “OH MY GOD! How dare you!” she bit back as she herself wiped her own brush on his cheek.

William acted shocked, “This means war missy!” as he again chased her. Buffy ran as fast as her little legs could take her. Running almost half an hour, face and arms filled with different colored paints. She looked like she just came from a paintball fight, which it actually is. As she continued to run, she looked behind her to see him right at her tail; she stuck her tongue out him. Suddenly she slammed into a familiar body, the manager’s. They’re in trouble now... he just glared at her as William came up from behind her, “I guess we better get going then?” she asked in the most adorable voice she could conjure up. The manager just nodded, so she thought its better they leave now before they get kicked out. She turned around and grabbed their basket full art materials and headed for the counter, pulling William along.

They were walking side by side, after their trip to the mall; paint evident on their face. Buffy suggested that they walk around town for a while. A paper bag in his right arm, they were walking in front of the local high school. It was just about three o’clock, dismissal time. He saw a swarm of kids rush out of school eager to go back home or possibly hang out with their friends. “Do you act like that when you were their age?” he asked.

“Huh? Oh, nah... I was always in detention.” Buffy half joked.

William cocked an eyebrow at her, “My juvenile delinquent.” He said with a smirk. Buffy just placed her most innocent smile for him.

“Buffy! Spike! What you guys doing here?” Dawn called as she excused herself from a couple of her friends. “And what happen to you?” she asked pointing to Buffy’s right cheek.

“Hi Dawnie, just showing Spike here around town.” She nudged his side,

“Yeah.” He agreed, “Here’s the stuff you needed.” He raised the paper bag to her face.

“Thanks.” She grabbed the bag, “guess I better get back to them.” She said as she turned back to look at her friends. “Bye you guys. Thanks again.”

William waved Dawn off, he faced Buffy, “I thought you said she was not the one for the crowds?” he accused, pertaining to the group the younger blonde was returning to.

“She’s not.” Buffy stated as she walked off, leaving him behind.

“Who’s the cute guy, Dawn?” a brunette with her hair up in a ponytail asked.

“More like that hottie!” another one with glasses joined in.

“Yeah. Who is he?” A blonde asked, eyes still lingering on the retreating form of William.

“Oh! Spike? She’s my sister’s boyfriend, though she’d never admit it.”

“Spike...” the three girls said in unison.

“Lucky sister.” The blonde commented.

“You know, one time I saw them totally making out on the back porch...” Dawn trailed off, tattling on what her eyes saw.

“So, where to next, pet?” he asked as he hooked his arm around hers, fingers intertwined.

Buffy felt tingles up her spine again, her heart doing flip-flops, but she didn’t mind the hand holding. “Umm... you hungry?”

“Starving!”

“Okay! Best franks you’d ever tasted coming up!” She said as she led her to the nearest hot dog stand. “Two please.” She added, “the works.” She turned to him, “these are the best ever!” The vendor handed her the two franks, “Thank you.” She handed him his share, their arms hooked around each other, fingers still intertwined.

William led them to the nearest bench as he took a bite out of his frank, “Umm...” he moaned in pleasure, “Tasty!”

“Told you.” As she herself bit into her own sandwich. “The best in town.”

“I can’t disagree with you there, pet.” Their intertwined fingers resting on their lap.

Just then realization hit Buffy, “You’re a hand holder!” she accused, finger pointing in his face.

William abruptly withdraws his hand that was still with hers, “No I am NOT!” he defended, blush creeping up his face.

She just smiled him, “It’s okay, I don’t mind.” She replied as she grabbed his hand and returned it to their former position.

William just smiled back at her. He brushed a chaste kiss on her cheek.

“What was that for?” she asked, hands on her just kissed cheek.

“Nothing. You’re just so damn funny, luv.” He answered as he continued to eat his sandwich.

‘Hmm... I’m funny ha?’ she wondered silently.

Chapter 19 Don't Even Try to Deny it

Dawn was silently sitting on the couch, flipping through a
magazine as she watch some television. She hears sounds of people who
seem to be talking at the front porch. Then the door opened up to
reveal a laughing Buffy with Spike who seemed to have just told her a
joke. "Hey you guys, thought you'd be out all night." She greeted.

"Oh, hey Dawn." Buffy hanged her coat by the rack and she and
William went into the living room. "What are you doing? Are you done
with your homework?"

Dawn rolled her eyes; Buffy sometimes can be so mom
like. "Yes, Buffy, I'm done. Plus it's a weekend tomorrow." As she
flip another page. "Mom said she'd be home late and that we can have
something delivered. How does pizza sound to you guys?"

Buffy groaned, "Pizza again, Dawnie. We just had that
yesterday." She brightens up, "How about some chines instead? What do
you say Will?"

William who had been quiet in the whole exchange of the two
sisters nodded. "Anything is really fine with me, luv."

"Umm. Buffy?" she called at her sister as she waved a hand in
her face. "They don't deliver."

"Oh," Buffy said with a pout, "I was really hoping for some
of those egg rolls." Then an idea flooded Buffy's brain. She looked
intently in William's eye, pleading can be seen through them.

William noticed the familiar green eyes staring at him, she
didn't need to say anything, he totally understood what she wanted
him to do. He just chuckled and threw his hands up in the air, "Okay!
I'll go and drive you up some Chinese."

A genuine smile spreads across her features, "Thanks!"

He just returned her smile, "I bloody well don't want to see
this house burn if any of you girls try to cook something. Have no
plan of sleeping in the streets tonight," he playfully joked. Earning
a punch in the arm from Buffy and a pillow in the chest from the
younger Summer. "I'd better go before I become all dent." He again
received a pillow in the side from Dawn but he just glared back at
her, a playful glare. She laughed, as he grabbed his coat and started
for the door.

"Don't forget my egg rolls!" Buffy called after him. He just
nodded his head and shut the door behind him. "So anything good on
the television, Dawnie." She turned back to her sister.

"Not remotely." Was her only response as she flipped another
page of her magazine. Seeing how there is really not much to see,
Buffy clicked the television off and began to fumble through a pile
of magazine as well. "So, how'd it go with you and Spike?" Dawn asked
breaking the silence.

Buffy looked up from the articled she was reading, "It was
okay, I had fun. I guess."

Dawn rolled her eyes heavenwards, "That's not what I meant."
She looked at her with question, Dawn just sighed, "I know we're
never really that close Buffy but I was just curious what's going on
between you and Spike. I mean it's obvious his your boyfriend."

Buffy wouldn't even let Dawn finished her sentence as she
spaced out, "He's not my boyfriend!" she said in a tone that can
clearly be identified as defensiveness. "We're just friends." she
tried to cover, knowing how her voice sounded like.

"Humph, classic!" Dawn said with a smile on her face, eyes
glittering.

"What do you mean classic?" she asked with suspicion.

"Come on Buffy, don't lie to me. I can see it, you're in it with
Spike." Buffy was about to say something but she raised her hand to
stop her, "And don't even try to deny it!"

"I don't have to deny it, Dawn, Because he's. Not. My.
Boyfriend." Buffy insisted on the head of her oh so stubborn
sister; "at least he didn't say we are." She whispered as if it were
a wish.

Dawn had to move in closer to actually hear what she had to
say, did she just say, `he didn't say we are'. So Buffy wants it to
be that way? She asked in her head and decided that asking herself
won't really get her any answers, "So you want to be with him?"

Buffy gave out a sigh, she can't believe she was about to
talk to sister about this stuff, "I really don't know, Dawn." Dawn
was not convinced, so she looked into her eyes and asked if she's
sure she does not know. "Okay, maybe we have gone out already. for
the last month or so. I mean I'm not sure if it's can be called
dating exactly. but it felt that way to me but I'm not sure about
him."

"Why don't you ask him."

"It's not that simple, Dawnie." She can't quite see herself
opening her heart to a new person and letting it get shattered into a
million pieces again. Deep down inside she knows that he would never
deliberately hurt her, ever, but that still does not assure her that
when she showed him her true feelings he would return them. Before he
said that he did had feelings for her but that they need time to
settle things let the pain heal. And she agreed, but after that
revelation he never really showed interest again at least not in
words. 

Dawn was getting irritated, sure she may not know a lot about
adult relationships and stuff. But why is it always so hard for
adults to say to a person that they love then or that they want to be
with them. It's like brain surgery the way they make it seem like.
Why can't they just go out and say it. "Yes, it is! There is nothing
wrong in liking somebody, Buffy. I'm sure if you ask him you'll get
an answer."

"Yeah." Was her reply, but will it be the answer she wants?

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

About an hour later the threesome was sitting by the couch
watching a movie on the DVD player munching on some noodles. Buffy
and William were sitting on the couch side by side; Dawn sprawled out
on the floor legs up swaying. "Oh! I love this part!" she would chime
in from time to time. She gave out a yawn, "That was a great movie,
but I think I'll be turning in." Dawn stated as she began to get up
and grab the empty food packages and proceeded to the kitchen and up
the stairs not forgetting to secretly give her sister the thumbs up.

Buffy gave out a sigh and gave her sister a vague smile.

William was pulling the CD out of the player and replacing it
back on it's case, "Did you say something, luv?" he asked hearing the
other blonde's sigh. Buffy just stared at him, should she ask him or
not? How the hell is she suppose to start? He was fastly approaching
her and she had no idea what to say, she can't remember the last time
she became tongue tied around anybody. To her relief he started
placing his palm on her cheek cupping her face, "Are you okay, Buffy?"

Unconsciously she was leaning into his hand, enjoying his
touch. Abruptly he took off his hand, which made her aware of her
movements and opened her eyes. His eyes were directly looking at her.
She can't quite read what it said.

He breathed in deep and swallowed a lump on his
throat, "Buffy." Her eyes were locked with his trying to read his
mind. "I know what I said before and it will totally contradict to
what I'm going to tell you now. I know I told you that time would
heal pain. but that's not true. Time could lessen the pain, yes. But
time can't make you forget it can't stop you from wondering if it
might happen again. You probably still are in pain, afraid to open
your heart." `Was he reading her mind, was he listening to her and
Dawn's conversation?' she asked herself. "I-I don't know how to say
this." he whispered. But seeing Buffy's eyes full of understanding,
ready to listen to everything he needed to say he continued, "I had
enough of time, Buffy. Its is being wasted, it passes through our
palms because of fear. uncertainty. and whatever excuse it is that
people make." He held her hands in his, a simple touch that meant so
much, "I don't want to waste time anymore and I don't care what you
are going to say after this. or how you're going to react because God
knows it's killing me trying to stop this feeling." He breathed
out, "But I can't. Buffy, I love you."

Buffy listened to everything he said, every word making her
stomach turn anticipating the moment he got to his point. And when he
said those words, `I love you' she wanted the moment to last. She
wished that she could stop time and bask in it. Right there she
realize that she also felt the same about him. All this time she was
denying it to everyone convincing them that there was nothing beyond
friendship between the two of them. Need she know that she was also
convincing herself in the process as well trying to bury the feelings
she felt for him the first time they met.

There were always obstacles in their path and she used that as an
excuse over and over again but now, she's not going to hide anymore.
It's time to be truthful. She took a deep breath prepared to say her
true feelings afraid that she would lose her courage.

"Shh. You don't need to say anything. I know you would never hurt me.
And you're right we are wasting time. I would never get over the fact
that my father walked out on me." She fought back tears, "or the fact
that I would never be more than a high school graduate. But I don't
care anymore, the flirting here and there; touches that make tingles
run up my spine. I don't want that." She said head shaking left and
right, she placed her free hand over theirs and held it tight, "I
love you." She finally concluded a smile on her beautiful face. "I
guessed I always knew.' She caressed his cheek, hands falling back
behind his neck pulling him closer until their lips were once a mere
inch apart.

As soon as their lips were about to meet, William pulled back a
little, holding her away to be able to look at her clearly, "Are you
sure, luv?"

"More than anything," she breathed, her lips slightly parted she was
trembling. Like she had waited an eternity to taste his lips yet
again. Their lips met seizing the other, at first the slightest touch
made them hunger for more. Their tongues danced an endless music. The
sound of passion and longing can be heard as they tried to deepen the
kiss until it left them both breathless.       

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

They were slumped down on the couch; her head was resting on
his shoulder as she dreamt the night away. Caressing the top of her
head, he could kill himself for waiting this long before he had the
guts to tell her he loved her. The feel of her on his body is
something he had dreamed about and now here he was holding her to
sleep and he never felt more contented.

The front door opened quietly, Joyce had been exhausted from
the gallery. She saw that the light on the living room was still on
she took a peak and saw her daughter cuddled up in the arms of
William. She never saw her eldest look so peaceful; she deserved to
be happy she recited in her mind. She had gone through enough
suffering, she just hoped that this guy would treat her
right. "Hello, William," she whispered as to not wake up the sleeping
form on the couch.

"Hey, Joyce." He sat up feeling a little uncomfortable seeing
the mother of the one he was caught in the couch with. "We just
watched a movie. she sort of got sleepy." He quickly covered; it was
not entirely a lie.

Joyce just nodded her head, "Maybe you should wake her up, get her to
go upstairs."

"No." William stated, "I think she had a long day, best carry her up.
Let her rest." Joyce again just nodded in approval as she herself
went up the steps and into her own bedroom.

William stood up and looked at his girlfriend's sleeping form, he
just smiled and thanked the heavens for such a gift. He scooped her
up and proceeded up the stairs into her bedroom and settled her on
her bed and tucked her in. She stirred a little but managed to get
comfortable and fell back into a deep slumber.

He looked at her once again, "Goodnight, luv" he said as he placed a
kiss on her forehead and went out the door.

"Goodnight." Was her whispered answer.

To be continued.

 

Chapter 20 And the Winner is.

The bright white florescent light was showering from up above
with the light of the sun slowly peaking through the draped windows.
Up on the stage were about 10 canvasses lined up ready to be filled
with beautiful strokes to tell a story. Each and every candidate
ready to put all that imagination to create a picture.

Buffy, William and Joyce were seated at the fifth row from
the stage. They were here to show support for the youngest Summer.
Buffy can't believe how fast time could fly; she could almost
remember it like it was only yesterday when she and Dawn were
fighting over Barbie dolls. Next year Dawn will be off to college,
and she was so proud of her sister for achieving so much, she really
had grown into a quite exceptional young woman. Now here she was
trying her very best to get into a good college and fulfil her dream
of becoming a great artist someday.

A little part of Buffy envied her sister for being able to
come this close to her dreams. She loved the way she lived now,
independent and living the Los Angeles life to the fullest. She loved
what she does, the fulfillment of being able to make people come
together and have a good time. Though in her heart she knew that
meeting a person in a matchmaking agency and assume that, that person
could be the one you would end up with was close to impossible. But
she always wondered what it would have been like if she had gone to
college just like Willow. Of course she had no idea what she would
major in but maybe once she was there she'd be able decide on a
possible steady career.

She must have given out a sigh of sadness when those thoughts
were running through her mind because she felt William tighten his
hold on her left hand. That simple gesture made her smile on the
inside, she had missed having a man to be able to share her day with.
She had never been comfortable enough with Riley to actually consider
their relationship as the boyfriend-girlfriend variety but with
William, she found it different. It was like she was back in Jr. High
with her first crush.

Buffy woke up to the sound of the chirping birds the sunshine
beaming through the windows. She stayed sprawled out in bed wanting
to soak on the beautiful early morning; she took a glance at her
bedside clock and saw that it was already fifteen minutes past nine.
Remembering this was the day that her sister had been preparing for
all week she jumped out of bed and began to put on a shirt and tie
her hair up on a ponytail. After a glance at the mirror she plopped
down the stairs and found the rest of the occupants of the house in
the kitchen.

"Hey, Buffy!" Dawn greeted cheerfully, excitement in her
voice as she came into the kitchen. William and her mom each gave her
their greeting as she pulled out a stool beside Dawn on the kitchen
island and rested her head on her hands. William was across her, her
mom on the sink washing some dishes. "I guess I better get ready."
The youngest Summer stated as she got up and jumped up the stairs.

"She sure is excited." Joyce dried her hands on a towel as
she faced the two blondes on the counter. "I guess I better get
dressed myself, you two hurry." As she went into the hall and up the
stairs too.

"You want some eggs, luv?" William asked as he grabbed a
couple of eggs from the refrigerator and started to heat a pan. Buffy
looked up from her hands and gave him a warm smile.

"I should be doing that. you're the guest." He dismissed her
with a wave of a hand and cracked the eggs on a bowl and beat it. As
he continued to cook, Buffy felt like she had to say something before
they fall into an awkward silence. "Umm. Thanks for bringing me
upstairs last night."

William turned off the stove and placed the eggs between them
as he took his place across her. "It's nothing, and I didn't think
your mum fancied you sleeping on the couch." He replied as he poured
them some juice and told her to eat up.

`He eats like a man' Buffy thought. William would grab a
mouthful of bacon and eggs then would take a big bite out of a toast
and he would munch it all down with a big gulp of orange juice. One
would think that it might have been slightly disgusting but she found
it rather. adorable. As she herself took the last bite of her toast,
she looked at him head tilted with a genuine smile on her face.

"What?!"

"It's nothing. it's just that you eat like a child." Buffy
answered as she bit her lower lip seeing the gleam in his eyes.

"A what did you say?" he asked playfully.

"A child." She said, almost a whisper.

"Is that right." he stretched the last word as he begun to
get up from his seat.

"Uh.hmm." she replied eyes closed ready for the consequence
of what she had spoken. Instead she felt his arms around her waist
and he raised her from her seat.

"A child huh?" he whispered in her ear. Buffy just nodded her head as
he started to nuzzle her neck. She gave out a little
giggle, "Ticklish are we." he teased her.

"Stop it!" she turned around, their face an inch apart, she saw his
eyes switch from pure gleam to regret, " we don't want Dawn to blame
us if she gets late." She explained. "Go and take a shower."

"Okay." he replied as he leaned in for a kiss.

After a moment Buffy pulled away, "Take the shower." He nodded but
again moved in for another kiss. After a minute Buffy was able to
pull away completely as she pushed William up the steps.

She began to gather the cup and plates they had used a contented
smile on her face. She is one lucky gal.

"Buffy? Buffy." William called which made Buffy pull out of her
slight reverie from the happenings that morning.

"Yeah?"

"I was thinking maybe you want something to drink or maybe a walk
outside. `Cause I gotta tell you love all this sitting is making my
butt sore."

Buffy gave out a chuckle, `William with his butt sore. now that's
something I would like to see.' "Sure. Mom? You want anything?" Joyce
politely declined saying she was just fine. The couple then went to
the back by the refreshment stand, "I'll get us some drinks okay?"
Buffy asked.

"Yeah, luv. I'll walk around. Just hurry."

As Buffy reached the stands, "Two cokes please." She told the server,
a man with grayish hair.

"You and your guy having a good time?" the old man asked out of
nowhere.

She looked back to William by the doors looking at the different
brochures they offered. She thought the man sure asked a weird
question but she answered it nonetheless, "Yeah." As she turned back
there was no one behind the stand; instead two cokes were placed in
front of her.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Buffy have gotten her and William a couple of cokes, she looked for
him by the grounds. Seeing no sign of him she decided that maybe he
wanted to catch some fresh air outside. As she slowly crept her way
out of the building, she found him by the fountain, holding a smoke
between his fingertips as he talked to a woman who looked to be on
her forties. They seemed to be having an intent conversation. William
must have seen her coming because he waved her over.

William crushed the remains of his cigarette as he placed his arm
around Buffy's shoulder. "Thanks ,luv." Was his response as she gave
him his soda.

"Oh, Buffy this is Maggie Walsh, my former professor back in Yale.
Maggie this is my girlfriend Buffy Summers." He introduced the two
ladies.

Buffy had looked at William warily when he had introduced her as his
girlfriend. Of course she knows that they were sort of dating but to
hear it come out of his lips that she indeed was his girlfriend just
made her heart do a summersault.

"It's very nice to meet you, Buffy." Maggie offered.

"Likewise." She greeted back with a smile, as the arm around her arm
fell to her side to intertwine with her fingers.

"Maggie here's one of the judges for the little bits' contest,"
William tried to make conversation.

"Dawn Summer's right?" Maggie confirmed, she received an assuring
nod. "She really has great talent. We at Yale were never really much
for the arts until recently and with that kind of ability, I think
that Yale may just have a place for her." She suggested with a smile.

`Wow.' Buffy thought, her younger sister is actually going to get an
offer from one of the most prestigious colleges in the country. Again
insecurity and jealousy are taking over her. She really can't help
but be envious of the kind of future Dawn has in store for her. She
was suddenly having regrets of not attending college.

"I guess I better get back, wouldn't wasn't to miss any action,"
Maggie said. "It's really nice seeing you again, William," as she
momentarily gave the blonde a loose hug. "It was a pleasure meeting
you, Buffy." She bid goodbye with a smile as she retreated back to
the building.

After a pause, "Isn't she nice, pet?" he asked as he wrapped an arm
around her waist. Buffy didn't answer. He pulled her to face him,
hands on both her sides. "Something wrong.?" Buffy shook her head as
she rested her head on his chest.

"It's nothing."

"Okay." he accredited as he placed a quick kiss on the top of her
head. He didn't believe a word she said but decided to let the matter
drop. "We better be getting back." she nodded her head and let
William lead her in.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

William was leading her back in when suddenly he
stopped. "What's the matter?" she asked as they continued to walk
back to their seat trying to avoid all the people walking
around. "Oh, what's going on." She asked her mother and sister once
they spotted them on their seat as she looked around the small crowds
of people talking.

"Intermission." Dawn answered plainly as she took a bite out
of her sandwich. "Judges are making their decision."

"Nervous, bit?"

"Yeah." She answered in a high pitch tone.

"That's okay, Dawn, important thing is that you had fun
right?" Buffy tried to ease her sister.

Dawn eyed her sister, "Yeah... of course." She said with a
roll of the eyes.

"So. where's your masterpiece?"

"Oh I don't know if you can call it a masterpiece, Spi-"
realizing that he was just playing with her, "right there." She
pointed to the fifth canvass from the left.

"You're no 5 huh?" she nodded. "My favorite number, I'm sure
you're gonna win!" William cheered. The Summer's women just eyed him
warily.

"Contestants please come back up stage, we will be announcing
the winners in just a short moment." Somebody from the P.A. announced.

"I better get back." Dawn said in a shaky voice, obviously
nervous.

"It's okay, honey. Don't be nervous. You did great." Joyce
said as she patted her daughter on the back.

"Yeah," the blonde couple assured. "Break a leg." Buffy
added, as Dawn went up the stage.

After everybody have settled, and the announcer got back on
stage. There was complete silence as they cued the music. "There
would be 5 awards given out." the announcer trailed off.

Up on her seat Dawn was too nervous, each and every time the
emcee says the number of the runner-up she gets more and more
nervous. She wished hers was already called to get it over with at
least she received something even if it wasn't the grand price. She
really wanted to win that scholarship, she wants to prove to her mom
and Buffy that all the things they put up with her was worth it. Even
if she knows that she never had to prove anything to them, especially
to her mother.

"Okay. We have come to the most anticipated moment of the
whole competition. The grand winner who would receive a scholarship
to Yale, to be awarded by Professor Maggie Walsh. and the winner is."
the drum rolled. "Contestant number. 5 Dawn Summers with `Child's
Play`"

Dawn jumped from her seat, when she heard her name. She
couldn't believe that she actually won. She herself won. She was so
excited as she glanced at the crowd who was clapping their hands for
her. She can't believe this; it was like a dream as she shook the
hand of a lady who handed her a blue ribbon. She was still in a daze
as they took a couple of pictures with the judges and the other
contestants. She walked down the stairs with a huge smile on her face
as her mother, Buffy and William greeted her with praises.

"Congratulations, honey. You did awesome!" Joyce hugged her
daughter, proud of her achievement.

"Yeah, Dawnie. Congratulations!" as she too gave her sister a
hug.

"I think that deserves a victory dinner." William
suggested. "My treat. what do you say?" he asked an eyebrow raised.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Dinner was awesome, actually dinner was `really' awesome.
Dawn realized she was missing out on the good stuff by always eating
fast food. William took them to one of those fancy restaurants just
outside Sunnydale. At first she and her mom insisted that it was not
necessary to spoil her like that but he had insisted saying that she
had deserved it. The place was amazing, it was probably the best meal
she had in her life, and she was so full she thought she would throw
up.

After that William offered for them to go to her favorite ice cream
parlor as an additional celebration for her winning first place. She
told him `again' that it was not necessary and that she was already
too full but `again' he insisted. There was something with William
and using his charm as a means of persuasion. Maybe that's why Buffy
liked him so much, yes she did notice the holding of hands, because
he really knew how to treat a lady or ladies for that night. He was
funny, courteous, successful and a perfect gentleman though he would
never admit it saying he was no poofter, even if she never understood
what it actually meant. And to top it all off he was a total hottie.
Dawn knew it was wrong to think those thoughts about her sister's
boyfriend but she just couldn't help herself. She just hoped that
someday she finds a guy just like him except maybe someone nearer to
her age.

"That was a wonderful dinner, William I'm totally stuffed." Joyce
said as they were in the front porch and she opened the front door.

   "It's nothing, Joyce. Glad you guys had a great time
especially the little bit here." He patted her head
affectionately. `Big sign that he only sees you as a little sister' a
part of Dawn's brain recited.

"Yeah. I had a great time. Thanks again Spike." Dawn gave him a bear
tight hug; he could almost hear his ribs breaking but hugged her back
all the same. "I better get upstairs. get some sleep. Goodnight." She
announced as she gave out a yawn.

"I guess I better be retreating back myself. Goodnight. Oh, William
if you need anything just ask." Joyce offered with a smile as she
went up the steps, leaving Buffy and William alone.

William turned to Buffy as soon as she heard Joyce's door close
shut, "So. what you want to do?" he asked with a smirk, a sparkle in
his eyes.

Buffy breathed out, as she played ideally with her tongue inside her
mouth, "I don't know." she said trying to keep a straight face. "I
was sort of sleepy." she yawned, ".already."

"Really." He wrapped his arm around her waist to pull her close.

She nodded her head, as he captured her lips for a kiss. "It's really
nice what you did for Dawn." She uttered as William began to kiss her
neck down to her collarbone.

"It's nothing. She deserved it, did you see that painting. Saying it
was good is an understatement." He continued his ministrations.

"Yeah. I guess so." She pulled back from him and kissed him on the
lips. "Goodnight." She said with a smile. William looked at her wide
eye, scared eyebrow raised. "Yes mister, goodnight," as he pulled her
in more. He nuzzled her earlobe; Buffy gave out a moan. "Not here. my
mom's upstairs. goodnight." She gave him a quick but passionate kiss
before going up the steps. Halfway she looked back at him at the foot
of the stairs staring at her back. "Love you." She whispered enough
so that he could here.

"Love you too." 


 

Chapter 21 The Unexpected Twist

That bright Monday morning, two women could be seen sitting in the
middle of the Summers' kitchen. "Are you two heading back to LA
today?" Joyce asked her eldest who was mindlessly playing with her
cereal.

"Yeah, we have to get going. as soon as the sleepyhead from the other
room wakes up!" Buffy mocked the sleeping form of William on the
living room. He looked so peaceful; she hadn't seem him sleep like
this in a long time. Usually he was up before the whole town.

Joyce looked tentatively to the living room "He seems to be asleep."
and back to her daughter, "Buffy."

"Yeah." Buffy looked back to her mom, `here it comes' she thought.
The `Buffy be careful, are you sure about him' speech is here. How
could she ever think that she might just get away from it this time?

"You and William." Joyce started but faltered.

"Yeah." Buffy tried to stretch the inevitable.

"Buffy. Do you like him?"

"Huh?" I guess she missed the whole speech thing the other night. "No
of course not. I'm using him for his money, getting him to will
everything to me wait until he dies so that I get to inherit
everything!" Buffy said, in a monotone with no hesitation. She
received a rather stern look from her mother. She just gave her mom
her best smile; "I was kidding mom. Yes. I very much like him. very,
very much." `I love him actually.' But she thought she should slowly
slide her mother into the situation rather than blow her away with
all the information.

"I'm glad, sweetheart. I just hope he doesn't hurt you."

"I don't think he will, mom." That was one of the things she was sure
of more than anything in this world. William would never hurt her; he
didn't have to say it for her to know he would never do anything
remotely agonizing. She knew this might backfire in the future but,
she loved him and he loved her and that's all that mattered right
now.

William was standing by the threshold looking at them giggling and
eating breakfast. He just knew they were gossiping. He would never
understand what there was with women and gossip.

"Good morning, ladies. I heard talking from the other room and
thought I'd come in and interrupt." He ventured into the kitchen with
a toothy grin and placed a kiss on his girlfriend's cheek, "What were
you talking about? Hope it's not me. is it?" he gave Joyce a look of
greeting.

She returned his greeting and offered, "Would you like some
breakfast?"

"I made cereal," the woman beside him announced proudly.

"I didn't know you could make cereal, luv?" he asked with a sly grin
on his face as he looked at the other occupant of the kitchen.

"Saw it on the food channel," Buffy continued. `Well that sure is
amazing.' He laughed inwardly. "Eat up we have a long ride home," she
smiled at him the way she always did. `God, I love this woman.'

"I'll pass on the cereal, luv," he replied as he poured himself some
juice and grabbed a piece of toast. "Where'd the little bit go?" he
asked as he noticed that absence of a certain blue-eyed brunette.

"She's at school, trying to straighten out some stuff before the end
of the school year," Joyce complied. "So have you two finished
packing?"

"Yeah. We'll pretty much be leaving as soon as Dawn comes home,"
Buffy answered. "I'm really gonna miss being here mom."

"Yes. we'll you know you're always welcome to visit and same goes for
you William. It's nice having at least one of Buffy's friends over."
Joyce offered.

William smiled complying with her proposition; "Maybe you should
consider coming to LA sometime. Have you ever been to LA?" Hearing
her answer no, "Well if you and the bit ever decide to drop by, I'd
love to be your official tour guide."

"Well. that's very nice of you. I surely will consider the offer,"
She said with a smile. "You better get ready, traffic is a nuisance."

The couple finished their meal, nodded and headed up the stairs.
Joyce watched them disappear through the doorway, as she gathered the
dishes they had used. She really liked seeing Buffy happy; she had a
glow about her that Joyce hadn't seen since her seventh birthday, the
last birthday to which her father actually showed up. She liked
William a lot, he seemed to be a very nice man who would never hurt
her baby. She just hoped that her instincts proved to be correct.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

"I guess that's everything." Buffy called as she walked down the
stairs, her luggage in hand. When she reached the bottom, William
took her bag. She let out a sigh, "I guess we had better get going."
she said as she gave her mom a hug, "I'm gonna miss you."

"I'm gonna miss you too, sweetheart," she returned the hug.

"Now you be good." Buffy told her sister as she gave her a hug too.

Dawn just answered with a "yes" and an eye roll as she returned her
gesture. Suddenly she jumped up and gave William a tight hug as she
whispered, "make her happy." "Hope to see you soon," she said so all
the occupants could hear.

"Same here, bit." he settled her back on the ground. His mind still
stuck on what the she had just whispered.

"It always a pleasure having you here, William. I would love if you
would drag Buffy back here again soon." She bid goodbye to the young
gentleman, a smile on her face.

"I'll try, Joyce" he answered with a grin, "And it's always a
pleasure to be here."

As they walked down the path to William's car he opened the trunk to
place the last of the baggage in. "Why are you always being so nice
to my mother?" Buffy accused from her spot beside the car, "It makes
me look bad."

"What?" He asked as he closed the trunk, "Your mom's nice. why can't
I be nice too?" He smiled and chuckled as he started the car and gave
a final wave to Joyce and Dawn as their car sped away from Revello
Drive.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

"Here we are, luv." William announced as he stopped in front of the
agency building. "I'll drop the bags at my place them we'll pick them
up later, kay?"

"Yeah" Buffy replied with a nod and leaned in for a quick tender
kiss. "See you around five," as she opened the car door and started
to get out.

When she was just about to step on to the sidewalk, "Oh, Buffy!"

She stopped and turned when she heard him call out to her, peeking
her head in the car window, "Yeah?"

After a moments pause as if thinking of what to say, "Tell Red I said
hi." he finished with his trademark grin.

She gave out a small laugh, saying, "No problem," as she leaned in
for another quick kiss before he sped off.

Willow was busy on the computer fixing some files when she heard the
bell of the shop ring. A very cheery Buffy came in with a broad smile
on her face. "Hey, Buffy. I guess everything was peachy in SunnyD
huh?" she asked as she walked out from behind the counter.

"More than peachy, Will." she replied with a sigh, "You'll never
believe me if I tell you." She sat on the empty sofa by the waiting
area.

"Then tell me," the redhead spoke as she sat beside Buffy on the
sofa. "I see spillage is in order."

"You'll never believe it, Willow," she told her friend as she
recalled the happenings of the weekend.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

William walked up the elevator greeting a couple of employees on the
way. "Lilah, any calls?" he asked as he looked through the envelopes
she held out to him.

"Tons, sir." Lilah answered as she began to take out her note pad and
before she could continue reading William's messages. "Throw it" she
heard her boss say. Still processing the information she called
out, "Sir, Mr. Harris is inside your office." just as William
approached the door.

"Thanks, luv" he called as he swung it open, "Hey Harris! What are
you doing here?"

The chair behind the large table that adored the office and spin
around to reveal, "Where have you been?" Xander said in a motherly
tone that William just couldn't resist mocking him for it.

"Why do you ask, `mom'?"

Xander just rolled his eyes in response to his friends
comment, "'cause your Uncle Rups has been looking for you for the
past week. Where did you go?"

"Sunnydale. And what does the old man want this time?" William swung
in to the chair in front of him.

"No clue. Sunnydale. huh?" he asked as he go through the many papers
stacked on William's desk. "Maybe I should try to visit Sunnydale
sometime. seems to be a happy town ey?"

"Huh?" William inquired, totally missing his friend's implication.

Xander pointed to his lips, a smile on them. "You seem to be happy.
very happy." He said as William broadened his smile, realizing that
he had one since he came in. "Well. let's pretend we're girls and get
on with the sharing. What's getting my British pal all smiley?"

William chuckled, "What's it to you?" as he took his seat in his
chair.

"Just curious" was his simple reply. "Care to share?"

"Me and Buffy are together." He said nonchalantly. Xander just
blinked his eyes fast about ten times then froze, "Xander." he tried
calling as he waved his hand in front of him, "Xander." Finally out
of patience, "Harris!"

"Yeah" he answered sort of pulled from his state of shock, after a
beat. "It's about time!"

"It's about time!" Willow shouted in excitement as Buffy told her
about her short trip to Sunnydale.

"Not what I was expecting but." Buffy trailed off as Willow hugged
her and she began jumping up and down her seat begging to hear more.

"That's so great! We knew it was coming. So what happened next,
there's got to be more right? I mean it was only Friday. what
happened next?" Girlishly she insited that Buffy go into detail about
everything.

"Well." Buffy smiled, "Let's just say he's really `really' sweet."

"Sweet? As in what?" Willow tried to get more information; she had
been waiting for ages for one of them to make their move. She even
discussed it with Xander and Cordelia. Bets were even proposed when
they were left alone at the table at the Bronze. "Don't tell me that
you and him.?"

"No. Nothing like that." Buffy answered the redhead's unfinished
question. "He's just a total gentleman, so tender, and treats me like
the most fragile thing in the world. I know we've only been together
for a couple of days, actually two days to be exact, but it feels
like it took forever."

"It `did' take forever. We've been waiting for this to happen for
ages."

Buffy just chuckled at that, "So. change of topic. How are you and
Oz? Last time I checked."

Willow cut in, "Me and Oz are great, better than great actually." she
smiled. "You're not the only one who got it on this weekend."

"Yea Willow!" Buffy said as she playfully smacked her on the arm.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

"Better get going, man." Xander finally decided that he better get
back to the site before a certain girl of his kicked his ass later.
Sure she might be all sweet and tender when they were out together
but when it came to business, this girl meant business. "Good luck
with Buffy" were his final words as he gave his friend a thumbs-up
and left the room.

William rotated his chair back to face the big panel window behind.
Looking across into the big city. He decided that it be best if he
got started on the work he had neglected the past week. Just then the
door on his office opened. It was so like Xander to forget something.
Spinning in his chair, "What did you forget this time?" He trailed of
when he saw the sight before him.

She was standing tall in all her glory, leaning on the door as it
shut behind her. Her long black hair framing her pale features, pitch
black eyes adoringly looking at him lips pursed a long red dress
flowing until her ankles cascading her every curve. "Dru."

"Hello, my William. How's your day going, you seem rather happy." she
greeted as she whirled her way across the room.

"What are you doing here, Dru?" He asked, not moving from his
previous position, as she continued moving towards him. He hissed
slightly as she ran her finger down his chest onto his abdomen.

"Is that the way you talk to your princess?" she continued her
earlier ministrations as she circled around him.

"What do you want?" He stopped her from spinning around him, held her
onto her waist and steadied her in front of him.

"Oohh. my Spikey likes to play." She suggested in a seductive tone.

Hearing this he released her, got up from his chair, and started to
pace, "What are you really doing here?"

"Uncle Rupert asked me to come and visit." She answered simply and
sat in his chair spinning it around.

"Giles is not your uncle. And why would he ask you to come?" As if in
response, his office door opened again.

"Thank God you're here William! Where have you been?"

"I went away. why?" he eyed his uncle warily. "And what the bleeding
hell is she doing here" he demanded as he pointed sternly at
Drusilla.

"She's here for business, William. Now I'd like to know where you've
been?"

"I went away for the weekend" he answered plainly, "What business?"
he asked still pertaining to the presence of a certain brunette.

"Well, as you know her father owns one of the biggest publishing
companies in Europe. Drusilla here is his only daughter and she would
be the one to take over the company if ever. And as her father is a
very good friend of mine, we decided that who better to teach
Drusilla the ropes than the best here in Los Angeles." Giles
explained as he took a seat on one of the chairs and began to polish
his glasses.

"Her father? Who is her father exactly?" William asked as he stopped
his pacing short. "And did I just hear you say that I have to help
her? Bloody Hell, Giles! Ever heard of maybe asking first?"

"Tsk.tsk. my William" Drusilla waved her finger at him, "Is that any
way to speak to your, uncle?" William just rolled his eye.

"Don't you raise your voice at me." Giles threatened. "She is the
daughter of Ethan Rayne," he answered more calmly, "And he and I
would really appreciate it if you would do us this one favor."

"And what makes you think I'm gonna do it?" he questioned with a
raised brow.

"Because it would make me very pleased if you did so." `Yeah right,
like I'll do it for that, soddin hell' William thought. "And it would
really do the company well."

"The company well. How?" he asked with slight interest. He still
didn't like this idea, it was so typical of his uncle to make his
life worse just when he thought it was going pretty well. And what he
was saying about Drusilla didn't seem to agree with what William
already knew about her.

"There might be a considerable option for a merge."

"That's right!" Drusilla chimed in, "Isn't that right Uncle Rupert?"
She began to circle Giles now.

"Yes. And I suggest maybe we can talk about this over lunch?" William
had no idea what the old man had planned for him, but he wanted to
find out. With a heavy sigh he agreed. It's not like he had anything
better to do "Let's go then."

To be continued.



 

Chapter 22 Pizza Forgotten

The bell on top of the door rang, Buffy looked up from behind the
counter, "Hey, you're here early." She moved over to the front to
give her boyfriend a long dominating kiss.

After catching his breath, "Yeah. well long day at work, thought I'd
get out as early as possible. See what my girl is up too." He said as
he held her near, hands resting on her hips. "Hey, Red." He greeted,
seeing a certain redhead behind the curtain to the backroom.

Willow blushed; she was just about to venture into the front of the
agency when she saw the couple. She didn't want to disturb them so
she thought she might just stay in the back a bit longer but her eyes
and ears can't seem to keep to themselves. But now that she had been
spotted, "Hey, Spike." She took the papers she was holding and sat on
one of the chairs behind the counter, embarrassed that she was caught
spying.

"So you think, you might be able to get out early?" William whispered
tugging on her earlobe still on the same position as before. Looking
over her shoulder to make sure a certain redhead at the back didn't
see.

"I don't know. I have to lock up."

"I'm sure Willow won't mind. Ain't that right, Red?" He asked already
knowing that the redhead was listening into their conversation.

Willow blushed yet again, "Yeah. I-I wouldn't mind."

"What do you say, luv? Lets get outta here." William said with a
raised brow, a smile on his lips.

With a sigh, "Let me just get my bag." She ducked behind the counter
to retrieve the said item, "Are you sure it's okay, Will?"

"Yeah, no problem, Buff. Have fun!" she finally called as the couple
exited the door.

"So, what's with the hurry?" Buffy asked as she and William got into
his black convertible. "'Just wanted to have you all to myself," he
answered accompanying it with one of his most seductive
smile, "Possesive much? Plus, perv!" she playfully slap him on the
arm. "Seriously, why did you get out of the office so early, what
happened to the workaholic I knew and loved?"

"I'm not a workaholic. okay, maybe a little" he admitted. "Just had
an unexpected visit, made me go off my rockers."

"Who?" William looked at him having a `what' look on his face. "Who
visited that `made you go off your rockers'?" she asked complete with
air quotes.

"Trust me you wouldn't want to know if I told you."

"How do you know I wouldn't want to know if you haven't even ask me?"
William shrugged. "Come on tell me, how bad can it be? It's not like
one of your exes came to visit or anything." He answered her with
comically big eyes; "Oh." was all she said at first, "So, who was it?
Was it Harmony?"

"No. And do you actually think that she's the only one I dated?" he
asked with humor. "'Cause I can tell you right now missy that there
happens to be a lot of girls chasing after me." Buffy just laughed at
him, though she wouldn't be surprise if it were true, his man, yes
his man is really an eye candy from head to foot he was every girl's
fantasy.

"No, but I think she's the only one dumb enough to come back to you."
she answered with yet another laugh.

"Funny, luv. Real funny." How dare she laugh at him, he's gonna get
payback later she just wait and see.

After holding herself back from giggling more like a little
girl, "So, who was it?"

"Dru" was his simple reply.

"Dru?" she asked, "What did she want?"

"I still don't understand and I don't really want to think about it."
he answered as he pulled his car over the basement parking lot.

"You know," Buffy started finally breaking the silence as they got
out of the car and proceeded to the elevator "I've known you for
months. You have gone to my house like a million times and been to my
hometown nonetheless yet this is the first time I'm gonna be able to
see your apartment."

"Well there's really nothing to see, luv" he answered as he pressed
the button on the elevator for the penthouse. "Here we are," the
elevator opened up and he fumbled with his key as he opened the door
to his flat, "trust me there's nothing to see."

To Buffy `nothing to see' is something that should never be used to
describe William's home. Entering the foyer, there was an assortment
of paintings that adored the walls. The living room on the end was
laid under a soft Persian rug, with a set of leather couch and a
whole entertainment system it even had its own fireplace. The dinning
area was not far behind consisting of elegant glass tables
accompanied by matching jewelry colored chairs. Venturing deeper,
you'll find the veranda hidden behind frosted glass doors. It was
truly a bachelor pad. And that were just what her eyes saw who knew
what the kitchen, bedroom or even the bathroom would look like. "Wow,
it's beautiful. You're place is wow, if I only knew. we could have
spent more time here than what I lamely called my apartment."

"There's really nothing special with it, pet," he replied as he went
into a hallway and disappeared on what she guess was his bedroom.

"Like hell, you have your own fireplace!" Buffy began to look around
until a picture at the top of the fireplace caught her eye. She
tentatively touched its glass.

"See something you like?" he asked as he wrapped his arms around
Buffy's waist. William just came out from the bedroom having changed
his shirt and gathering up some of Buffy's bags that he left there
earlier.

"Who's this?" she asked fingers still tracing the glass on the frame.

"Well, that's me luv, when I was a little kid," he replied as he
rested his chin on top of her shoulder.

"I know that, who's the lady with you?"

"My mum."

"Oh." was all Buffy could say realizing how dumb her question
was, "she's very beautiful, you have the same eyes."

"Yeah, reckon I got it from her."

"You don't talk much about her, why?" she turned around so she was
facing him.

"Well. that's cause she's dead, luv" he said as the glimmer in his
eyes faded.

"I'm sorry," Buffy replied as she ducked her head. It must hurt a lot
she can't even imagine if her mom would have left her.

"It's okay, you didn't know." He lifted her chin so she was looking
in her eyes and offered her a weak smile.

"How?"

She didn't say more for he knew what she was asking him, "Car
accident." He released his grasp from her and sat himself on one of
the leather couch as he ushered Buffy to sit right next to him. "With
my da, in case you're wondering. Don't really know what happened, I
was little then and I don't think I even wanna know now."

Buffy leaned in to rest her head on his shoulder and draped an arm
around his torso, giving him as much comfort as she could. She didn't
know what to say he grew up without a single parent, it was hard for
her to grow up without her father but at least she had her mom
William had neither. "You grew up on your own?" she couldn't help
asking, he never talk much about his childhood now that she look back
she hardly talk about his family either.

"No. Rupert took me in," he answered her as he stroked her long
blonde hair, "probably took care of me my whole life."

"Rupert? As in Rupert Giles?" she asked confused. "U...huh" was the
answer she got. "As in your."

"Uncle" he supplied.

Buffy seemed confused and who wouldn't be, `Giles is his
uncle?' "What?"

"Uncle, luv. Brother of me mum, son of me grandmum." William trailed
off.

"I got that," she gave him a look of annoyance, did he think she
didn't get it, actually she didn't understand it at all. "But you
never mentioned that he was your uncle and he's your business partner
right?"

"Yeah. And you never really asked, now did you." She scowled at him,
he just laughed, "it's a long story."

"I'm willing to listen, if you're willing to tell," she offered as
she snuggled closer into his embrace.

William debated that idea in his head, he couldn't really think of a
reason why he should tell Buffy but neither could he think of a
reason why he shouldn't. Deciding to go with the latter idea, "Hmm.
where should I start?"

"The beginning is always nice," she suggested playfully.

He snickered, "Okay, this is gonna be a long one," he stated before
he started with the long story he was about to tell. "When my parents
died, I was about seven I think, I really can't bloody remember. He
took me in `cause he was probably the only living relative I had,
took care of me, raised me with all he had. At that time he was
taking charge of the whole company."

"So when you grew up you bought him out?" she interrupted.

"No and don't interrupt" he glared at her. "Maybe I should start from
the beginning."

"Isn't that what I told you?" Buffy insisted, like she was telling
him the obvious.

"Okay, fine" he stressed. "See we were originally from England, thus
the accent."

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

"So, what do you want for dinner, luv?" William asked as he continued
to rub his hand along Buffy's bare arm.

"What?" Buffy was caught of guard she was still in a daze from all
the information she got.

"It's getting late. Thought maybe we could just have dinner here,
pizza sound good?" he inquired, getting a nod. "Okay, I'll be right
back" she said as he kissed the top of her head and headed into the
phone in the kitchen.

Buffy couldn't believe how messed up William's childhood was or at
least that's what she thought from what he told her. Finding out at a
young age that you're suddenly an orphan and had only one person to
turn to. Knowing that this person was not really that keen about your
father. Must have been complicated.

Just as said, William was back in a couple of minutes, plopping down
on the couch next to Buffy he wrapped his arm around her shoulder and
continued to caress her arm. "Pizza's gonna be here in about 30
minutes," he told. "So, what do you think we should do until then?"
he asked as he began nuzzling the side of her neck.

Buffy leaned her head to the right to give him access as she let out
a moan.

"Do you want to see the rest of the apartment?" she answered him with
nod. Offering his hand out, "Let's go then."

Just as Buffy thought, the apartment he called home was amazing. The
kitchen was enormous to the point that if she lived here she wouldn't
know what to do with the assortment of pots and pans he had, he
really does have a passion for cooking. Next stop was his bedroom,
William stood in front of the door as if the conceal what was
behind, "You ready?"

Buffy just gave him an eye roll as she passed by him and opened the
door for herself. She was engulfed by how big the room was but not to
the point that it was not comfortable. The walls were covered in a
nice shade of blue, which the dark wood color of the furniture just
complimented perfectly. In the center of the room was the huge four-
posted bed, which Buffy found particularly drawn to. She slowly move
towards it and sat on its edge slightly jumping up and down testing
the mattress, "comfy" she described.

William gave her a raised brow as he crossed the room to stand right
in front of her "You like?"

"Uhuh." she said with a nod as she pulled him down for a sensual
kiss, "I like very much." He just smiled at her and returned the
favor.

As she was kissing her senseless, Buffy was slowly leaning back in
bed until she was laying on her back. "Buffy." she looked up at him
and nodded. "But the last time."

"Shh." was her reply as she continued kissing him again. To Buffy the
last time they had sex it was because of hormones and uncontrolled
emotions, now was very much different, tonight they were about to
make love.

After that William was just lost in the bliss, as they both shared a
night full of passion and the desire, the pizza forgotten.

A/N: Hope that wasn't too long of an update for you guys. Reviews are
appreciated!

Next