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

**devotion earnest attachment to a person

He spent the night at the Summers' home. Buffy and Dawn insisted since the following week was Spring Break. Buffy knew such a personal event like what Spike had to endure hit hard. This was someone, whether she was of the undead sort, who he had known for over 100 years. An attachment, a bond, a strong one at that, was still there even though it had been strained for the past few years.

Buffy couldn't help to stare at him now, sitting on the couch, looking off into oblivion. She really did not know what to say him. Every 20 minutes or so she would ask him if he needed anything. He would answer with no. She thought back to the time when Angel was the one she had to sacrifice. Afterwards, the emptiness, the sorrow, the hate boiled within her. She took the cowards way out and skipped town. It was hard to get rid of his ghost especially if she had to face her friends and loved ones. So at this very moment she wanted to give him his space.

After making Spike eat something, she made up the couch in the living room, making sure the window was well covered to keep out morning's impending sunlight. He still wasn't talking. As he sat down on the couch he uttered a word.

"Buffy?"

She turned quickly and rushed over to the coffee table, plopping herself down directly in front of him. He slid his hands underneath hers, her palms now resting on the backs of his.

"Thank you."

"You're very welcome, Spike. If you need anything, you know where I am. Just knock this time. Don't want any unnecessary roughness in the middle of the night, and oh, boy that did not come out right. You know what I mean. Good night, sweetie."

He looked up at her, surprised at the endearment she bestowed upon him but didn't respond. He nodded and gave her a pained smile in return.

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

The room was pitch black. Wasn't there a full moon tonight? He knew Buffy had hung a thick blanket over the window above the couch but there should be some li---ight. 'Where is that light coming from and who is up in the middle of the night?' Spike swung his legs over the edge of the couch and stood, leaning a little to the left to peer around the doorway into the kitchen. It did not look like a familiar light fixture that was even in the kitchen, it looked like a beam of light. 'Is someone robbing the place? They're gonna wish they'd gone to another house.' There were no noises coming from the other room so couldn't be robbers. With a whoosh, the light traveled quickly into the living room, knocking Spike back down to the couch.

"What the bloody---D-Dru?" he stuttered.

"Hello, my beloved."

Spike stood again, legs feeling shaky, confusion setting in. Suddenly, a voice screaming into his ear.

"What the hell did you do? You had no right, no right at all."

Spike had raised his arms up, and cowered away from the offensive voice. He peered over his arm. Angelus?

"Why are you bleeding yelling at me? She came after me, my friends. I had every right to stake her." He glanced over at Dru who was swaying back and forth to her own internal music. When he looked back at Angelus, he was holding a very limp Buffy tightly in his grasp.

"Buffy, no don't hurt her. Buffy fight back, I can't, I can't move, god please don't do this, you don't want to do this."

"Oh, I'm not----but Dru is. Question is, should she kill her or----turn her into one of us?"

"Please, don't. I need---."

Dru had slipped in next to Buffy, pulling her head back by a handful of hair. Dru gave Spike one last evil, seductive smile before sinking her fangs into Buffy's supple neck. Spike couldn't move.

"Nnnoooooooooo."

Light, blinding light. "Spike, Spike, it's ok.

The shaking was uncontrollable. He was being held down, his arms pinned. His eyes shot open. Bright light and something---no, someone holding his arms. Buffy, his Buffy. He sat bolt upright and wrapped his arms tightly around her tiny waist, panting heavily into her shoulder.

"Oh, god, Dru. Buffy---."

"I know, I know Spike. I know how hard it is. I'm here to help. Let me help."

"Buffy, she killed you. Dru killed you. It was---."

"A bad dream, Spike. Just a bad dream. She's gone now. She won't get me."

"But Angelus, he can. He can come after me, after you and the bit. He will. I killed his childe, he will come for me."

"No, no Angel wouldn't do that."

"Doesn't matter. Let him. I'm not scared of that poofter."

"Spike, look at me." Buffy held his face in his hands so he would look at her. "Nothing will happen, not Dru, not Angel or Angelus. This is just the guilt playing mind games with you."

"I can't lose you again, you know. I would die if you are ever taken away from me again."

Buffy laid her forehead against his. She was trying her best to comfort and reassure him. She quickly leaned in and kissed his pouting lips and could feel the tension melting away from not only herself but from him as well. She gently scooted him over closer to the back of the couch and laid down next to him, her back facing him. He naturally draped his arm over her, nuzzling the nape of her neck. She smiled, liking the feel of him so close and feeling content. They did fit perfectly together. Both drifted off into a somewhat peaceful sleep.

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

The following nights that Spike stayed at the house were still filled with agonizing nightmares, always ending with Buffy getting killed, and the last one with both of his girls perishing. Dru was always the one doing the killing and Angelus was always there on the sidelines. Buffy would fly down the stairs, shaking him out of the dream, holding him and comforting him. Every morning, Dawn would find the two snuggled up together on the couch, looking peaceful and happy in one another's company. She hated to wake them up. Once she scrounged around enough in the kitchen, Buffy would pop in not too long after.

"How is Spike doing?" she asked her sister on the third morning.

"I really don't know. He won't talk to me exept about what happens in his dreams."

"Whose having dreams?" Meg asked as she and Willow came through the back door.

"Spike, having nightmares. I don't know what to do about it. He calms down and it seems they disappear once I come downstairs to be with him.

"Well, I can interpret dreams, if you think he would want me to. Part of what I practice is doing just that." Meg smiled softly.

"Well, he seems to like you. Maybe he will let you. No harm in trying."

Spike was standing in the doorway, listening in on the conversation.

"Don't think you'd be able to help me, little one," he directed towards Megan.

She walked over to him, gently touching his arm. "Will you let me try? Just try and if you feel uncomfortable or feel it's not working, I will stop."

"Whatever, if you want. Where and what do I need to do?"

"Let's go somewhere quiet, comfortable. Back in the living room?"

"Sure," he grumbled, turning and walking away. He stopped and looked over his shoulder at Buffy.

"Will you come and sit with me, Buffy? Is that alright, little one?"

"Sure, it might even help."

An hour later, after Spike retold Meg his dreams and she placed him into a semi hypnotic state, she unjumbled the pattern and came up with a solution. She looked at the couple sitting on the couch, sitting close to one another, Spike clinging desperately to Buffy's hand, a life force for him. Meg cleared her throat, Buffy looked up at her and Spike slowly regained conciousness.

"Didn't work, did it?"

"Actually, I think it did. I never read a vampires dream before, so this have been such a priviliege. I just---."

"Meg, sorry, but what did you find out?" Buffy interrupted her ramblings.

"Sorry. Well, there is definitely guilt there, more towards you than anyone else."

Buffy raised her brows and sat up, pointing at herself. Spike looked away from both girls. Buffy grabbed his chin and turned his head to look at her.

"You're still feeling guilty about last spring, aren't you? Spike, you gotta get over that. I have."

Spike looked back at Meg. Buffy huffed with exasperation.

"What else?"

'Well, this may sound strange, but you feel guilt for an angel? Seems you won't be at peace until you talk to it, or him."

"Angel, maybe you should call him." Buffy told him.

Meg shook her head. "No, he has to do it face to face. Face the consequences. It's the only way."

"Very well, I'll leave tonight."

"I'll go with you," Buffy said matter of factly.

"No, luv. I need to do this on my own just in case he wants to hand out the punishment."

Spike swiftly moved off of the couch and headed to the kitchen for a bite.

TBC

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

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

**love a profoundly tender, passionate affection

Spike was standing in the kitchen, grabbing a few things for the road i.e. chips, cookies, blood. A well balanced group of snacks to travel with.

"So, you're not planning on taking that piece of junk of yours to LA, are you?"Buffy was leaning against the doorway to the kitchen.

Spike glared at her momentarily. "And why wouldn't I, luv? Besides, what else would I drive? I'm not taking the bike."

Buffy jangled a set of keys in the air. He stared at them.

"Are you letting me borrow your mum's, er, your car? I'm touched." He tried his best to act surprised at her gesture.

"Right, borrow. Not if I'm in the passenger seat."

"Buffy, I told you, you are *not* going. I need to do this on my own. Better this way."

"Who says? You? Spike, just let me come along. I won't interfere, I promise. But I do have a stake, oops, sorry, in this. If he does turn on you, I risk losing something special. I can't handle that right now. One, I would be very sad if you got dusted by someone else other than me." She smirked at him in which turn he growled.

She continued, "And two, if Angel dusts you, then I have to turn around and stake him."

"I don't see anything bad in that. But I still say no."

Buffy, in a blink of an eye, slid over to Spike so that they were merely inches from each other, her body heat radiating off of her and hitting him in waves. With one hand, she was playing with the curls on the back of his head which sent tingles down his spine. The other was drawing invisible patterns on his chest. He shut his eyes tightly, trying hard to suppress the desire to ravage her because of her ministrations.

"I want to ride along with you, please,---honey, sweetie---baby," she drawled out seductively, lightly brushing her lips over his. She swore she heard him gulp. His body finally relaxed as he let out a sigh he had been holding. His eyes popped open, full of love and defeat.

Growling, "Buffy, you are such the little temptress. Fine, but you stay out of the way. Do you promise?"

"Promise---your easy."

"Can't help it, not when it's you, you Jezebel. Now come here."

He swept her up so her feat were barely on the ground, and kissed her passionately, breaking away and looking at her. She opened her eyes to see why he pulled away.

"Honey? Sweetie? Baby? Are those my new pet names, luv?"

"Only if you want them to be," she continued on seductively. He growled again and continued his plight. No need to let those plump, sweet lips of hers get too lonely.

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

Buffy slept most of the way there, which was fine by him. He preferred the quiet so he could think of ways to break the news to Angel. Last time he graced Angel with his company he tried to have him killed. Surely Buffy had spoken to Angel about him since that incident. Maybe not.

They arrived at the Hyperion around 10. Lights were still on inside so he knew someone was up. He knew Angel would definitely be up. Spike reached over and looked at Buffy. He didn't know whether to wake her or just leave her in the car as he went in to do his business. She would be royally pissed if he didn't wake her and at least let her now they had arrived.

"Buffy," he called her softly, running his hand over her hair. "Buffy, we're here, luv. Time to wake up."

She groaned and sat up slowly, looking around outside. She looked over at him and smiled.

"I'm going in. You coming in or staying out here?"

"I think I will come in. I'll just go to another room once I see that neither one of you are going to tear the others heart out, or throat, or lungs, or---."

"Alright, alright, got the human anatomy lesson. I'll be good, I promise. Just gotta remember, we haven't seen each other since I tried to kill him to get the ring of Amarra back. It might not be a pleasant reception for me, either. Have you told him about me since I got the chip?"

"Only that you had a chip implanted and you were reluctantly helping us. That was when I saw him last, after I was brought back. Other than that I haven't talked to him much. Oh, he also knows you stayed and looked after Dawn when I---you know."

"Well, that's a *good* thing, I guess.

She swatted him gently on the arm. "Come on, it's now or never."

"Easy for you to say, luv. Easy for you to say."

They walked hand in hand up to the doors of the hotel. Spike was the one who pulled away before opening the door, but he gave her a loving nudge for assurance. The front area was empty but they heard noises coming from the other office located to the right. Angel came through the doorway, shuffling paperwork, checking to see who was visiting at this late hour.

"Buffy!" Angel looked at her in surprise then glanced at Spike quickly. Back to Buffy. He held his hands up not sure whether to hug her or not.

"How are you?" He stepped forward and gave her a loving embrace in which she returned. Spike stuffed his hands in his pockets and looked down at his shoes.

"Just fine, you?"

"Couldn't be better.---So---Spike. Never thought I'd see the likes of you again. Heard you were---incapacitated?"

"Angel. I didn't really think I'd see you again, either. Needed to talk."

"Aboooout?" He sarcastically asked.

"I think I will find somewhere else to go," Buffy made her way out of the room. Spike sighed and shook his head.

"Drusilla."

"What about Dru?" Angel walked over to the front, desk, placing his stack of papers down. Spike followed him but stayed at a distance.

"She came back to Sunnydale with intentions that were not fully welcomed and I--".

"She's dust, right?" Spike was speechless for a bit.

"I staked her, yes, she's gone. How did you know?"

"I had a feeling, didn't know what exactly. With you showing up here, well, kind of set it in stone. Wouldn't imagine you showing up for any other reason other than to try to kill me.---So Will, I see your carting around some extra baggage."

"What?---You mean you're not---angry about it?"

"Why would I be? I told Dru a long time ago to stay away, far away if she was going to cause trouble. Darla and her worked up a scheme not too long ago, got burned for it, it more ways than one."

"Remember that, she came back to Sunnydale looking for me. I threatened to stake her then but she left." Spike said, of course leaving out the parts about Buffy and why he threatened to stake Dru in the first place. "And what do you mean, extra baggage?"

"Something new, something different about you. If I didn't know any better, I'd think you had a soul yourself. But that's highly imposs---."

"I do," Spike interrupted him, "actually. And I wasn't cursed with it."

Angel looked at him in amazement. "How is that possible? The only other way to get one that I know of is to seek it. There's a demon who specializes in granting things, forgot their name, though. I think you have to go through a set of trials or something or other."

"Yep, three. Three separate trials. Tough, I thought I was going to bloody die. Hurt like a bugger when I got the thing, too."

"Well, I'm---shocked. I'd say speechless, but nothing about you, William, leaves me speechless anymore. Why'd you do it?"

"Um, let's just say personal reasons. Tired of living in between what with the chip in my head and all. And I was already helping Buffy and the Scoobies."

Buffy wandered back in once she realized neither one of the boys had decapitated or dusted the other. It was funny to see them talking civilly to one another, like nothing ugly had ever happened between them. Angel turned and smiled at her.

"Why don't you two stay the night? You can take off tomorrow evening after sunset. Give us a chance to catch up with one another."

Spike started to protest. "I think---."

Buffy butted in. "Sure, that would be nice." Spike gave her a nasty look but then it softened.

"The rooms on the second floor from 210 to 220 are all made up as guests rooms. Help yourselves. Guess I'll see you in the morning then."

"Good night."

Angel walked back to the office but turned just in time to notice Buffy sliding her hand into Spike's as they ascended the stairs.

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

They got adjoining rooms but ended up sharing one room that night. Spike sprawled out on top of the comforter on the bed, hands behind his head while Buffy busied herself getting ready for the night. She slipped into bed next to him wanting to discuss the events that had unfolded earlier. Spike was astounded that he still remained among the living and un-living. Buffy listened to him intently until she slowly started to drift off. Spike brushed the hair away from her face and kissed her forehead.

"Go to sleep, luv. We'll talk some more tomorrow. We always have tomorrow. I love you, Buffy."

"Mmm, tomorrow. I love you, too," she mumbled as she rolled over on her other side, facing away from Spike. Spike lifted his head up off the pillow, mouth hangin open, eyes bugging out. He wanted so much to shake her awake and ask her to repeat the last thing she said. He could wait until tomorrow, at least he thought he could. Maybe that 'someday' was finally here. Just maybe.

TBC

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

Part 10:

A/N: Please read and enjoy as much as you can. I *still* want to know what you think! =) Please continue to review me, I'll even take some criticisms.

Summary: Set after Same Time, Same Place. Buffy tries to overcome Spike's astounding news, feeling very undeserving of what Spike has offered up to her. Where will this lead them? This is my take of what I would like to happen between Buffy and Spike this season.

Disclaimer: Be forewarned, may include some *spoilers* for upcoming episodes. So if you are trying to remain unspoiled, don't go there! All these characters, (except *my* RJ and Megan), and spoilers that will really happen in the weeks ahead, all belong to one Joss Whedon and his affiliates. I'm just embellishing with the fluffiness because we all know Joss is not the fluffy spuffy type. **Definition taken from the Random House Dictionary.

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

**love a profoundly tender, passionate affection

Spike was standing in the kitchen, grabbing a few things for the road i.e. chips, cookies, blood. A well balanced group of snacks to travel with.

"So, you're not planning on taking that piece of junk of yours to LA, are you?"Buffy was leaning against the doorway to the kitchen.

Spike glared at her momentarily. "And why wouldn't I, luv? Besides, what else would I drive? I'm not taking the bike."

Buffy jangled a set of keys in the air. He stared at them.

"Are you letting me borrow your mum's, er, your car? I'm touched." He tried his best to act surprised at her gesture.

"Right, borrow. Not if I'm in the passenger seat."

"Buffy, I told you, you are *not* going. I need to do this on my own. Better this way."

"Who says? You? Spike, just let me come along. I won't interfere, I promise. But I do have a stake, oops, sorry, in this. If he does turn on you, I risk losing something special. I can't handle that right now. One, I would be very sad if you got dusted by someone else other than me." She smirked at him in which turn he growled.

She continued, "And two, if Angel dusts you, then I have to turn around and stake him."

"I don't see anything bad in that. But I still say no."

Buffy, in a blink of an eye, slid over to Spike so that they were merely inches from each other, her body heat radiating off of her and hitting him in waves. With one hand, she was playing with the curls on the back of his head which sent tingles down his spine. The other was drawing invisible patterns on his chest. He shut his eyes tightly, trying hard to suppress the desire to ravage her because of her ministrations.

"I want to ride along with you, please,---honey, sweetie---baby," she drawled out seductively, lightly brushing her lips over his. She swore she heard him gulp. His body finally relaxed as he let out a sigh he had been holding. His eyes popped open, full of love and defeat.

Growling, "Buffy, you are such the little temptress. Fine, but you stay out of the way. Do you promise?"

"Promise---your easy."

"Can't help it, not when it's you, you Jezebel. Now come here."

He swept her up so her feat were barely on the ground, and kissed her passionately, breaking away and looking at her. She opened her eyes to see why he pulled away.

"Honey? Sweetie? Baby? Are those my new pet names, luv?"

"Only if you want them to be," she continued on seductively. He growled again and continued his plight. No need to let those plump, sweet lips of hers get too lonely.

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

Buffy slept most of the way there, which was fine by him. He preferred the quiet so he could think of ways to break the news to Angel. Last time he graced Angel with his company he tried to have him killed. Surely Buffy had spoken to Angel about him since that incident. Maybe not.

They arrived at the Hyperion around 10. Lights were still on inside so he knew someone was up. He knew Angel would definitely be up. Spike reached over and looked at Buffy. He didn't know whether to wake her or just leave her in the car as he went in to do his business. She would be royally pissed if he didn't wake her and at least let her now they had arrived.

"Buffy," he called her softly, running his hand over her hair. "Buffy, we're here, luv. Time to wake up."

She groaned and sat up slowly, looking around outside. She looked over at him and smiled.

"I'm going in. You coming in or staying out here?"

"I think I will come in. I'll just go to another room once I see that neither one of you are going to tear the others heart out, or throat, or lungs, or---."

"Alright, alright, got the human anatomy lesson. I'll be good, I promise. Just gotta remember, we haven't seen each other since I tried to kill him to get the ring of Amarra back. It might not be a pleasant reception for me, either. Have you told him about me since I got the chip?"

"Only that you had a chip implanted and you were reluctantly helping us. That was when I saw him last, after I was brought back. Other than that I haven't talked to him much. Oh, he also knows you stayed and looked after Dawn when I---you know."

"Well, that's a *good* thing, I guess.

She swatted him gently on the arm. "Come on, it's now or never."

"Easy for you to say, luv. Easy for you to say."

They walked hand in hand up to the doors of the hotel. Spike was the one who pulled away before opening the door, but he gave her a loving nudge for assurance. The front area was empty but they heard noises coming from the other office located to the right. Angel came through the doorway, shuffling paperwork, checking to see who was visiting at this late hour.

"Buffy!" Angel looked at her in surprise then glanced at Spike quickly. Back to Buffy. He held his hands up not sure whether to hug her or not.

"How are you?" He stepped forward and gave her a loving embrace in which she returned. Spike stuffed his hands in his pockets and looked down at his shoes.

"Just fine, you?"

"Couldn't be better.---So---Spike. Never thought I'd see the likes of you again. Heard you were---incapacitated?"

"Angel. I didn't really think I'd see you again, either. Needed to talk."

"Aboooout?" He sarcastically asked.

"I think I will find somewhere else to go," Buffy made her way out of the room. Spike sighed and shook his head.

"Drusilla."

"What about Dru?" Angel walked over to the front, desk, placing his stack of papers down. Spike followed him but stayed at a distance.

"She came back to Sunnydale with intentions that were not fully welcomed and I--".

"She's dust, right?" Spike was speechless for a bit.

"I staked her, yes, she's gone. How did you know?"

"I had a feeling, didn't know what exactly. With you showing up here, well, kind of set it in stone. Wouldn't imagine you showing up for any other reason other than to try to kill me.---So Will, I see your carting around some extra baggage."

"What?---You mean you're not---angry about it?"

"Why would I be? I told Dru a long time ago to stay away, far away if she was going to cause trouble. Darla and her worked up a scheme not too long ago, got burned for it, it more ways than one."

"Remember that, she came back to Sunnydale looking for me. I threatened to stake her then but she left." Spike said, of course leaving out the parts about Buffy and why he threatened to stake Dru in the first place. "And what do you mean, extra baggage?"

"Something new, something different about you. If I didn't know any better, I'd think you had a soul yourself. But that's highly imposs---."

"I do," Spike interrupted him, "actually. And I wasn't cursed with it."

Angel looked at him in amazement. "How is that possible? The only other way to get one that I know of is to seek it. There's a demon who specializes in granting things, forgot their name, though. I think you have to go through a set of trials or something or other."

"Yep, three. Three separate trials. Tough, I thought I was going to bloody die. Hurt like a bugger when I got the thing, too."

"Well, I'm---shocked. I'd say speechless, but nothing about you, William, leaves me speechless anymore. Why'd you do it?"

"Um, let's just say personal reasons. Tired of living in between what with the chip in my head and all. And I was already helping Buffy and the Scoobies."

Buffy wandered back in once she realized neither one of the boys had decapitated or dusted the other. It was funny to see them talking civilly to one another, like nothing ugly had ever happened between them. Angel turned and smiled at her.

"Why don't you two stay the night? You can take off tomorrow evening after sunset. Give us a chance to catch up with one another."

Spike started to protest. "I think---."

Buffy butted in. "Sure, that would be nice." Spike gave her a nasty look but then it softened.

"The rooms on the second floor from 210 to 220 are all made up as guests rooms. Help yourselves. Guess I'll see you in the morning then."

"Good night."

Angel walked back to the office but turned just in time to notice Buffy sliding her hand into Spike's as they ascended the stairs.

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

They got adjoining rooms but ended up sharing one room that night. Spike sprawled out on top of the comforter on the bed, hands behind his head while Buffy busied herself getting ready for the night. She slipped into bed next to him wanting to discuss the events that had unfolded earlier. Spike was astounded that he still remained among the living and un-living. Buffy listened to him intently until she slowly started to drift off. Spike brushed the hair away from her face and kissed her forehead.

"Go to sleep, luv. We'll talk some more tomorrow. We always have tomorrow. I love you, Buffy."

"Mmm, tomorrow. I love you, too," she mumbled as she rolled over on her other side, facing away from Spike. Spike lifted his head up off the pillow, mouth hangin open, eyes bugging out. He wanted so much to shake her awake and ask her to repeat the last thing she said. He could wait until tomorrow, at least he thought he could. Maybe that 'someday' was finally here. Just maybe.

TBC

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

A/N One more to go. I hope you liked this the next will be mostly spuffy. Please let me know what you thought!! 8)

Part 11:

Summary: Set after Same Time, Same Place. Buffy tries to overcome Spike's astounding news, feeling very undeserving of what Spike has offered up to her. Where will this lead them? This is my take of what I would like to happen between Buffy and Spike this season.

Disclaimer: Be forewarned, may include some *spoilers* for upcoming episodes. So if you are trying to remain unspoiled, don't go there! All these characters, (except *my* RJ and Megan), and spoilers that will really happen in the weeks ahead, all belong to one Joss Whedon and his affiliates. I'm just embellishing with the fluffiness because we all know Joss is not the fluffy spuffy type.

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

He laid awake next to her, on his side, head propped up on his hand, gazing at her. He wanted to absorb every single inch of her into his memory. He, in his wildest dreams, never thought he would be here, next to her, ever again. He had become soft; yes, he would admit to it. Here he had been an evil, well, semi-evil creature of the night for over 120 years, and all he could think about was loving Buffy and giving her everything. He felt he had already done enough for himself, it was time to give. He vowed to himself from that day on that everything he did was because of her and for her.

He swept a strand of hair out of her face and leaned over to place a chaste kiss on her forehead, then one on the tip of her nose and ending softly upon her lips. She mumbled slightly but didn't awaken. He decided he would let her sleep some more. He slipped out of bed, dressed quietly and stealthily made his way downstairs. For some reason he wanted to check out Angel Investigations. 'What a poufy name, Angel Investigations,' he thought to himself as he came closer to the main floor.

Someone he didn't recognize was at the front desk, a petite brunette who looked like a computer nerd with her glasses on. She looked up when she heard him descend the last step. She gave him a warm smile and said hi, barely loud enough for him to hear. He actually smiled back at her and nodded his hello. Without warning, he heard a crash off to his right.

"Oh, my god, Spike." Cordelia ran over to Fred and pushed her aside, grabbing a stake in the process. "Annnggeelll," she screamed.

Spike held up his hands in surrender, trying to convince her he wasn't there to harm anyone. Angel flew into the room, looking around frantically for the intruder. He saw Spike holding his hands up, shaking his head back and forth and trying to speak a full sentence. Angel crossed his arms over his chest and started to chuckle. Spike gave him an unpleasant look.

"Angel, would you be so kind as to call off your bodyguard?"

"It's alright, Cordy. Spike is here with Buffy and he's completely harmless. Well, somewhat harmless anyway. I'll explain later." Angel turned back to Spike. "Hungry? I was just getting ready to eat breakfast. Got plenty if your interested."

"Uh,---sure---thanks."

About twenty minutes later, the two vampires found themselves in a dimly lit sitting room. They sat opposite from one another after Angel had pulled a table over that held a glass chess board and placed it between them. They had played against each other way back when, usually out of boredom during the daylight hours. Both had gotten quite good, but it had been a while. He started to set up the playing pieces so Spike pitched in to help.

Afterwards, Spike noticed Angel staring at him from time to time. Spike knew something was on his mind even though he himself really wanted to talk to Angel; he just didn't know where to begin. Finally, Spike started.

"Just say it."

Angel's mouth dropped open. "What?"

"You apparently want to ask me something, so just ask."

"What's with you and Buffy?"

Spike chuckled and looked away from him.

"What's so funny? You told me to ask."

"I knew exactly what you were going to ask, that's what's so funny." He stopped laughing and became serious as he looked back at him.

"Nothing. We had a----a thing for a brief time. Just happened. Now we're- --just friends."

It was Angel's turn to laugh.

"I think I recall this conversation once before. A particular person, namely *you*, telling Buffy and me that we would never be friends. You're in love with her, aren't you?" Spike lowered his gaze and grimaced at the fact Angel could see right through him.

"I knew it. Is that the reason you sought a soul? Does she love you?"

"I think that is something you should be asking Buffy, if you're brave enough to do so," Spike said matter-of-factly.

"Why? Because you're not really sure how she feels about you?"

"Doesn't matter. I know how I feel, and that's all that I care about right now. I would do anything for her and her sister. They're my family, all that I have, well, except for you, but we both know how that's been."

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

Buffy had woke up alone not too long after Spike had casually slipped out of the room. She was sure she heard Cordy yelling for Angel. She made her way to the bathroom, showered, dressed and headed downstairs to see what kind of mischief Spike had gotten himself into.

Buffy ran into Cordy and Fred. As they exchanged pleasantries, Cordy mentioned the whereabouts of the two boys. Buffy made her way to the darkest room in the hotel and stood at the doorway just in time to hear them talking about her. She was amazed at Spike's responses to Angel's hounding. Another thing that was unbelievable was how well the two were getting along. Well, getting along for them was not ripping each other's body parts off. They seem to be having a rational conversation of sorts.

She cleared her throat before entering the room, giving them a leeway to either change the subject or stop talking about her.

"Goodmorning, boys."

Angel stood, which made Spike roll his eyes. He had to hand it to Angel, he was still a smooth character what with the gentlemanly charms and all. He gave her a peck on the cheek.

"How did you sleep?"

"Like a log, thanks." She turned her attention to Spike, smiling affectionately. He returned it.

"I rolled over and didn't find you this morning. You left without waking me."

Mouth opened in astonishment; Spike couldn't believe Buffy mentioned their sleeping arrangements right there in front of Angel. Maybe now would be a good time to be stoic. He snapped his mouth shut and glanced over at Angel, who of course looked a bit perplexed. Spike cleared his throat and turned his attention back to Buffy.

"I---thought you needed to sleep a little longer. Besides, I wanted to check out the place. Which, I think I will finish my tour right now and let you two catch up."

He stood quickly, but as he passed the still standing Buffy, the back of their hands brushed. He gave her a glance and saw the twinkle in her eyes before she winked at him. She was up to something. He smiled to himself before leaving the room.

Buffy plopped herself down in Spike's seat.

"So, fill me in on the haps. What's new in your life, Angel? Seeing anyone special? Anything strange or odd happened lately?"

"What's going on, Buffy?"

"I'm trying to catch up. What better way to do that than to carry on a bit of conversation?"

"I mean, what's going on with Spike? You two seem to be on more than friendly terms. Am I right?"

"Possibly. Maybe. Does it matter?"

"Buffy, don't take this the wrong way. You know I care about you, I always will. I know it's your life and I have no right to tell you what you should do, but Spike? Can you trust him?"

"You would be amazed at what he has accomplished, what he has done for me and Dawn. He's risked his life, or unlife as he would say, he's protected all of us, he went out to get a soul for me because he wanted to be a good man. You of all people should know what it does to you to get a soul back after being without one for so long. He just wanted me to be happy, wanted to give me what he thought I deserved; love and happiness. I think all that speaks volumes and I will admit, it took me a while to fully trust him. But yes, I do now."

Silence filled the room.

"I believe he does love you. I can see it in his eyes and in his actions. But---Buffy,---do you love him?"

"Hey, peaches, there's a crazy guy out here asking for you." Spike knew he was interrupting at a bad time. "I think you better get out here and talk to him."

"We'll finish our conversation later?" Angel looked perturbed.

"No need. The answer to your question is the same as my answer to your other question." Buffy didn't want to say it, especially with Spike in the room. She had her own agenda set for the right time and place to break her declaration to him.

Angel nodded his confirmation.

Spike's blue eyes widened and he was having a hard time containing his excitement. He knew exactly what the questions were and now knew her answer to both. Vampire hearing was a wonderful asset to the undead creature package. He quickly dropped his eyes to the floor so Angel couldn't pick up on this discovery.

As he passed Spike in the doorway, he asked Angel, "Need any help?"

Angel shrugged his shoulders. "Don't know yet. Maybe."

Buffy came up to stand next to Spike. "We've got your back, just in case."

Angel smiled and headed to the front lounge.

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

Angel, indeed, needed some backup. Gunn and Fred were out on a case and Cordy was in another part of the hotel. It turned out the "crazy man" was in actuality a demon who could split himself into two other smaller demons. All in all, they were peeved at something or someone and mean as ever, taking its anger out on the three warriors.

Angel decided to take on the large one, leaving the two small ones for Buffy and Spike, which they disposed of quite quickly. The big one was strong and Angel struggled. In fact, the demon picked Angel up and tossed him across the room like a sack of flour then ran towards him brandishing a bo that had been sharpened to a point at the end. Spike intercepted the demon's pursuit and took the blow meant for Angel. He crumpled to the floor holding his side where blood gushed from the gash the demon had inflicted.

Buffy took that instant to take the demon down, Angel hopping onto the bandwagon and holding him down while Buffy twisted its neck nearly all the way off. She scrambled off of the demon and crawled over to Spike who was lying face down on the floor, blood now puddling underneath him. Angel noticed and ran to get the firstaid kit. Buffy had him flipped over onto his back when he returned. Spike was unconscious and paler than normal. Buffy was holding her hands over the deep cut.

"It's bad, Angel. He's lost a lot of blood. We need to get it stopped."

Angel put the kit down and ran over to grab some towels. He placed them over the wound and applied enough pressure over it to staunch the flow while Buffy booked it to the kitchen to grab as much blood as she could carry to replace what Spike had lost. When she came back into the room, she had to stop for a moment. Angel had lifted Spike up and was cradling his head in his lap. She could overhear him talking to his grand childe.

"Must be something good in that cold heart of yours after all. What was with that heroic white knight stuff? Throwing yourself in between that demon and me; taking the brunt of the hit, something that was meant to dust me, finish me off.---Must be something in there," he trailed off almost too soft for Buffy to hear.

Spike moaned and started to move slightly. His eyes slowly opened.

"Oh, bloody hell. You would have to be the first thing I see after waking up from being almost skewered."

Angel looked up at Buffy with a goofy grin on his face.

"He's going to be just fine, Buff."

Part 12:

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

By evening, Spike was mobile, but barely. Buffy called Dawn to let her know they were staying overnight and hope to be home by the following evening. She would call before they actually left. As she hung up the phone she heard a few expletives from the other room.

"Dammit all to bloody hell! Will you just sod off? And stop coddling me!"

Buffy walked into the room as Spike was finishing his rant.

"Why does everyone feel it necessary to be over indulgent towards me? Buffyyyy---tell him to stop and, and to---to go away."

Buffy started to giggle when she saw that Angel was playing nurse maid to Spike and his incessant whining about it. At the same moment Spike saw Angel's hurt expression.

"Bugger," he mumbled as he looked away. "It's just that---your stifling. And yeah, I know, I don't need to breathe, but you've already thanked me enough; you've already done quite enough. It's getting to be too much."

"I'm only trying to help, make sure your comfortable, healing and all. I mean, you did take the so called "bullet" for me. The least I can do is, what did you say? Coddle? Just trying to show my appreciation. But I'll back off, if that will make you happy."

"A bit. Thanks.---Um, wanna play a game of chess? We never got the first one really started."

Angel smiled. "I'll go get the board."

Spike rolled his eyes as Angel left the room and looked up at Buffy with adoring but helpless eyes.

"I'm not saying anything and I'm not doing anything either. I think it's sweet that he wants to take care of you. You are his grandchilde, you know. Respect your elders. They're wise beyond their years---way beyond their years."

"Sweet my ass," he mumbled. "And don't patronize me. I'm just not used to seeing this side of him. Kind of gives me the willies. Especially looking back at our precarious relationship."

"I just think he wants to show his appreciation. Show you he does actually care about you. Give him the benefit of the doubt. Maybe it's time for you to accept a reconcillation. Be a man about it."

"You're patronizing again," he said between gritted teeth.

"That's why you love me so." Buffy smiled at him sweetly as she bent down and placed a soft kiss on his lips.

"Mmhmm, yeah. One of the many reasons." He gently pulled her back to him and kissed her deeper, breaking it off when he heard Angel approach.

The three spent the rest of the night gabbing about the past few years, all the demons and baddies they had met along the way, the most fascinating story belonging to Angel. Both Spike and Buffy were floored that Angel was the father of a currently teenaged son who was rebelling against him. Was even more astonished to find out who the mother was. Go figure; what a cruel yet hilarious world.

Buffy's eyes began to droop and the yawns were coming more often. She decided her bed was calling her and left the boys, who were still talking and playing chess, around midnight. She was happy they were getting along so well. It had been a nice visit but she was ready to go home.

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

She was ready to go right at sunset. She had made her phone call to Dawn as promised and now was hustling Spike about. He had, as she knew he would, healed rather quickly even though he was still feeling the aches. All the sleep he had during the day and the good dose of O-negative helped with the speedy recovery.

She threw her arms around Angel's neck as they stood at the entrance and told him to stay in touch more often. He had an open invitation to Sunnydale anytime.

"I'll remember that. Not quite a vacation spot, but I will come and visit."

Spike sighed loudly. "Bloody wonderful. To visit, mind you. Not to stay. Sunnydale is my turf, don't forget that."

Angel gave him a parental look of sternness and clipped the side of his head gently with a cuff of his hand as Spike smirked and held out his hand towards him. Angel grasped it firmly for a second or two before suddenly reaching out with the other hand and pulling Spike into a friendly hug. Spike gasped quietly and reciprocated it and added a few pats to his back.

Spike cleared his throat. "Uh, right. See ya round."

"Yeah. See ya round. And take care of everyone---or else."

He smirked again. "Got it."

Buffy booked it out to the SUV and hopped in.

"Good god woman, why are you in such a hurry? You'd think the end of the world was about to happen," Spike huffed as he pulled himself into the driver's seat with a slight groan.

"I wanted to make a stop along the way. Somewhere special from my childhood. I wanted to tell you something in private before we make it back home."

"Oh---alright. Where is this special place since I am the driver of this beast?"

"I'll tell you how to get there along the way."

"Gotcha."

Twenty minutes and several turns later, they pulled onto an overlook. Spike put the car in park, turned the engine off, but left the radio on playing softly. The expanse of the ocean spread out in front of them as the full moon and twinkling stars danced off of the waves.

Spike chuckled as he looked around in awe. "This is a makeout spot."

"Is not. It's a---it's just a nice view, peaceful and serene."

"Yeah, yeah and all that rot. This a classic makeout spot and you can't tell me otherwise. Remember, I've been around a long time, and I know a makeout spot when I see one."

"Alright, alright. Geesh. Call it what you will."

"So---do with me what you will."

"Ok, ruining the mood very much right at the moment."

"Oh, sorry. Shutting up now. Go on."

Buffy turned around in her seat so she could look at Spike.

"Do you believe we've actually known each other almost six whole years? Started out as enemies, hating each other, wanting nothing but to kill each other."

"Uh, Buffy, sorry to interrupt, but I never really hated you and the wanting to kill you? Nope, not that either. I know it may have seemed like I did, but when I first saw you at the Bronze and then saw you fight in the alley, all I ever wanted to do was dance with you. It was all just a big tease, the big badness and all. Had to keep a reputation and all, you know being in the master line and what. I loved getting under your skin, watching you seethe with anger until you reached your boiling point. It was like an aphrodisiac to me. And I can't believe I'm telling you this. Somewhere along the way, the lust turned to love. And it just took over and kept growing bigger and larger til it took over my whole existence. *You* took over my whole existence. I've made up my mind, it doesn't matter anymore. I love you and if you are not in my life then my life is just an emptiness I will have to dredge through. I don't care if you ever love me the way I love you. Just being with you, like this, is the closest I'll ever come to heaven. I vow from this day forward that everything I do, I'll do it for you."

Buffy sat there as if she was a deer caught in headlights, mouth hanging open. As if right on cue, a love song started playing on the radio.

~~Look into my eyes, you will see What you mean to me. Search your heart, search your soul And when you find me there you'll search no more.~~

Spike smiled. "I'm sorry. Go ahead and finish what you were saying. I have a tendency to run at the mouth, you of all---"

He was cut off when Buffy grabbed him and pulled him to her capturing his mouth in a blinding and seering kiss. He tangled his fingers through her golden locks not wanting to let go. She finally pulled away to catch her breath as they leaned in, foreheads together.

~~Look into your heart, you will find There's nothing there to hide. Take me as I am, take my life. I would give it all, I would sacrifice.~~

"Spike---I love you. I know that sounds so pathetic after that beautiful long speech of---"

Now it was her turn to get cut off with lips of Spike. Buffy wasn't complaining too much at that particular moment either.

~~There's no love, like your love. And no other could give more love. There's nowhere, unless you're there, All the time, all the way.~~

He pulled away slowly and whispered, "Say it again, please, tell me again."

She whispered back, "I love you. I'm sorry I've made you wait so long."

"Doesn't matter."

They sat there kissing, touching and looking at each other as the song played on.

~~Oh, you can't tell me it's not worth trying for. I can't help it, there's nothing I want more. Yeah, I would fight for you, I'd lie for you. Walk the wire for you, yeah, I'd die for you. You know it's true. Everything I do, I do it for you.~~

Buffy smiled at him. "Let's go home. I told Dawnie I had some news for her. Told her it had to do with you. I'm sure the others will be there, too."

"Alright, luv. Let's go home then."

The End

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

A/N Mushy, fluffy, lovey stuff abounds. 8) Song lyrics (not all of the lyrics included in story) from one of my most favorite singers and songs: Bryan Adams: Everything I Do (I Do It For You). Thought it fit in perfectly with the moment. THANK YOU ALL FOR ALL THE SUPPORT THROUGHOUT THIS WHOLE STORY! BLOWING KISSES ACROSS THE INTERNET WAVES TO EACH AND EVERY ONE OF YA'. 8 D~~Mel