***

Chapter 12 - Giving In (R)

Spike lead Buffy into the suite with his hand at the small of her back. The door snicked shut behind them, the sound echoing through the silent room. Buffy hadn't spoken a word since they'd gotten into the elevator; Spike waited.

Buffy stood in the middle of the room her arms hugging her waist. She was still shivering, though she tried hard to mask her reaction. She knew Will wouldn't leave her until he knew she was back under control. But she couldn't face him now. Her emotions were too raw. She was too vulnerable. So instead she walked toward the wall of windows and looked down onto the Vegas night.

"Thank you for walking me up. You don't have to stay."

Spike was beside her in a moment, his hands coming up to rub up and down her arms. "You're still trembling."

Buffy continued to stare out the window, willing herself not to react to his touch. "It's just the shock wearing off. A reaction to the fear."

"Why did you go down alone if you were afraid?"

"I had to."

"You didn't have to do it alone."

"Yes. I did." Buffy turned toward him now, unwilling, or unable to resist the pull any longer. "I had to know that I could do it on my own. That I could face him once and for all."

They stood together for a silent moment. Each trying to read the other, their eyes boring into one another. Buffy looked away first. "I have to admit though.when I felt you walk up behind me, I knew." She looked up once more into Will's steely blue eyes. "I knew that everything would be okay."

Spike's heart was thundering in his chest. He could feel his blood pumping furiously through his body. The knowledge that Buffy felt safe because of him thrilled him more than he cared to admit. Leaning forward he placed a light kiss on the crown of her head. She sighed and gave in to the need to enter his embrace.

After a few minutes, Buffy pulled away enough to look into Will's face once more. "Angel thought we we're lovers."

"Buffy, luv. I'm so - " Buffy placed a slim finger on his lips to stall his apology.

"I'm glad." Her finger traced the outline of his mouth before she removed it. She gave him a soft smile before continuing. "He must be furious. I never let him touch me." Buffy blushed at having reminded Will of her own inexperience.

Before she could look away Spike cupped Buffy's face in both his hands. "I'm glad luv." Then he leaned forward and pressed his lips to hers.

Spike reeled as the constant ache he'd been carrying around burst into flame. Without conscious thought he changed the angle of their mouths and deepened the kiss. His tongue leapt forward to explore her mouth once more, stopping to memorize every spot that caused Buffy to moan or sigh in pleasure.

While his mouth was busy with hers, his hands came up to roam across Buffy's body. He studied the curve of her back, before letting himself experience her feminine contours. His fingers danced lightly over the front of her cotton shirt, until they reached the hard nubs that tipped her breasts. Rubbing the cotton roughly against her sensitized peaks, Spike's own body throbbed in response when Buffy let out a deep husky groan.

It was going too far, too fast. Spike berated himself for letting things get out of control once again. He tried to pull away, willed himself to distance their bodies. But Buffy's hands came up to wrap themselves around him, and he was lost.

"Please." Buffy murmured. "Will please. Touch me." She knew he wanted to pull away. To leave her aching and wanting and alone.

"Buffy." Her name was a groan; he buried his nose in her hair and drank deep of her scent. "Touching won't be enough." He tried to warn her.

"I don't care. You can have it all." She drew him close, letting her lips linger just a breath away from his. "Make love with me."

The request was more than Spike could take. He was already painfully hard, and to hear his own need reflected back at him was too much. He crushed his mouth to hers, and lifted her into his arms. Hurriedly he carried her to the bed and placed her gently on the silk sheets. When he stood to divest himself of his clothing he took a moment to study the woman lying in wait for him.

She was beautiful. He hadn't bothered to turn the lamp light on, but the moonlight spilling through the window framed her in an incandescent glow. Her lips were swollen and her eyes were dark with passion. But that wasn't all that Spike saw. He saw the vulnerability, and the slight taint of fear. This would be her first. He would be her first.

"I won't hurt you."

"I know." She had undressed slowly, while he watched. Her creamy skin revealed inch by inch to his hungry eyes. She was nervous, but her body trembled from passion not anxiety. She wanted to feel him. She wanted to study his body with her hands, and let his explore her own.

For a moment Spike found himself unable to move. Buffy lay on the bed, her hair framing her pixie face, swathed in only the thin fabric of lace that covered her womanhood. His breath caught at the look of desire she directed toward him. A look he knew she had never shared with another.

He crossed to her to sit lightly on the edge of the bed. Slowly, almost reverently, he let his hands slide over her delicate skin. Delighting whenever her body arched to meet his soft touch. For the next few minutes he studied her, filing away each response for their next lovemaking. For he knew that once he had her, he wouldn't be able to stop. Spike paused in his heady exploration long enough to lean forward and kiss her. It had only been a few minutes, but he'd felt like they hadn't kissed in hours. And he needed it. Needed her again.

Buffy's whole body was on fire. She'd never felt so alive, so full of energy before. Every touch he gave her had her craving for more. Every time he drew away she cried out for fear he would not return. As they kissed, her hands came up to touch him for the first time. And a wave of pure heat shot through her at the deep groan that escaped his lips on contact.

'Slowly. Gently,' Spike had to tell himself. Her responses were unbearably arousing. She had no barriers, no preconceived ideas of how she should react. She was pure instinct. Pure wanton need and desire. And he reveled in it.

"Will. I - oooh!" Words dissolved as she felt him take one impossibly hard nipple into his mouth. Her body arched off the bed, trying to capture even more of the incredible sensation. Spike suckled her until she was mewling. Then, as gently as possible, he bit down. Taking her sensitive peak between his teeth and pulling. Buffy cried out as she felt another gush of moist heat spear her between the legs.

"Easy luv." He gentled her with his hands, and then followed with sweet kisses up and down her body. Spike wasn't sure if he was trying to calm her or himself. Her responses were driving him almost mad with need. He felt his control slipping away.

He let his hands wander until he reached the silky lace she still wore. He looked up into Buffy's face searching for any signs of fear or worry. He saw none, but wanted to be sure. "We can still stop luv. I'll stop if you ask." Buffy's eyes fluttered open, and focused on Spike's. She felt something in her burst open at the look she saw there, and at the thought that he would give up this loving for her sake. Even when the evidence of his needs was hard and throbbing against her. Spike watched her with a sinking heart. She hadn't answered and he was almost afraid that that was answer enough. But at this point, he wasn't above begging, and so he did. His head came down to nuzzle her neck. "Please luv." His words were strained with the need to keep control. "Don't ask."

Buffy's hands came up to frame Will's face, and pull it toward her own. She kissed him, long and thorough and wet. And when they drew away, she met his gaze with a longing look of her own. "Love me, Will."

Spike moaned softly in relief, and let his hands continue their earlier exploration. His finger dipped below the swatch of lace. A growl erupted from his throat as he encountered her wet center. He barely controlled the urge to rip the panties off her and plunge himself inside. Instead he let his fingers touch. Felt her body tense. He built her up and pushed her over the edge, until she was screaming his name.

"Oh god! Will, I never.I can't.what - Will!" And then she was falling.

When she swam back up to coherency, Will was there. Kissing her gently, running cool hands over her hot body. "Okay luv?"

"Okay? I've never felt anything like it!" Buffy graced him with one of her blinding smiles. Spike felt his heart stop for just a second. And then he was kissing her again. Again he let his hands wander, this time he built her up until she was teetering over the edge but refused to push her over.

"Hold on luv." He whispered just before he pushed himself into her. She was moaning and arching, and begging when he finally slid inside her. The pain hit her unawares. It mixed with the pleasure until she wasn't sure exactly what she was feeling. She only knew she wanted more.

Spike was in awe. He'd loved many women before, but he'd never felt like this. This tumbling free fall of desire, of want, of need. Slowly he began to move. Letting each moan, sigh, and groan guide him. They thrust together leisurely until neither could take anymore. Spike increased the pace, wondering at the feeling of Buffy beneath him, surrounding him. And this time they rushed toward the edge together, plunging over it with hands held.

***

Chapter 13 - Pillow Talk

Buffy woke slowly, her eyes fluttering open and her mouth breathing out a small sigh of contentment. Turning she snuggled closer to Will. When he shifted to move away from her, she tightened her grip on him. "Where are you going?"

Spike leaned down and planted a firm kiss on the top of Buffy'shead. "I don't want to crush you. You're so small." He realized when he awoke that he was more than half on top of her.

"I'm not that small! I can take you in a fair fight any day mister!" Buffy teased, keeping her arms wrapped around him.

Spike chuckled, shifting without losing contact, just enough to take most of his weight off her. "I don't doubt that luv. Not after what I saw yesterday." This time he kissed her more intimately, their lips gently swiping across each other. "My mum said you gave her a demonstration. Are you going to show me what else you can do?"

"If you like." Buffy answered, turning so that she could grin up at him.

For a moment they just looked at each other. Buffy could feel her heart beating in her chest. Slowly she brought her hand up to cup his cheek, and leaned forward to press a chaste kiss on his lips. When she pulled away, her eyes were downcast, and her cheeks were rosy. "C-can I ask you something?" She cursed her stutter.

Spike's eyes narrowed into wary slits. He knew what she was going to ask, and wasn't ready for the question. How was he to know where this was leading, when he couldn't even pinpoint his own feelings? "Question?"

Buffy continued to look away, anywhere but at Will. "Uhm." She bit her bottom lip and chewed roughly. "I know this is probably cliché, and you probably think I'm silly.but I just have to know." Now she did look up to meet his gaze, but her face was still flushed and her lashes fluttered.

"Was it.I.was I okay?"

Spike felt a twisting in his chest as he drew her near. "Buffy, luv." He held her there in his embrace, her head resting on his shoulder while he gathered his words. How could she not know? "You were wonderful. It was beautiful. Thank you for letting me be your first."

'My first. My only.' Buffy thought, but knew Will didn't want to hear those words from her just yet. She sighed and burrowed deeper into his arms. It had been wonderful. At least for her, although it could have something to do with the fact that she'd already fallen in love with him. She'd known it that day in her room, when he'd come up to apologize and ended up kissing her breathless.

"Thank you, Will; for making it so special. I can't even describe how I felt, how *you* made me feel. I thought I could." She turned slightly to place a kiss on his chest. "I thought I'd be able to remember every detail, every step. But I can't. Everything's jumbled. I couldn't think last night; I could only feel. I felt you, and you swept me away." She sighed again, the puff of air tickling Spike's cool skin.

"I'm glad luv. That's as it should be." Spike's hands began a leisurely journey up and down Buffy's spine, making her skin tingle.

"Hmmm?" Buffy tried to pay attention.

Spike's mouth descended to play with the short hairs at the nape of her neck. His tongue peeking out to taste here and there.

"I can't think when you do that." Buffy complained.

"Thinking is overrated luv." Spike answered without pausing his ministrations. He thrust his hips forward, letting her know what her earlier speech had wrought.

She groaned at the feeling of his hardness against her, and echoed it with her own moist reaction. Spike's hand reached down to encounter wet heat, his throat emitting a low growl. "So ready for me luv." He slathered open mouthed kisses up and down her throat. He reversed their positions so that she was beneath him his erection nestled comfortably in the vee of her legs.

At the touch of their groins together, Buffy arched up searching for more contact. Her breasts only inches from Spike's lips, he tasted her. Illiciting a strangled groan when his mouth wrapped around her hard nipple, he laved the sensitive flesh with his tongue. Unable to control himself, he bit down then drew the tip of his tongue over the captured nub.

Buffy moaned her hands coming around to cup Will's bottom. She pulled him forward, with a whispered plea. "Will, now. Please!"

He entered her, the heat wrapping itself around his turgid flesh. He buried his face in her neck, breathing in her scent and tasting the thin sheen of sweat covering her skin. They moved together, until he felt her reach her peak. Her walls fluttering around him. "Buffy!" The name was ripped from him. And then he was following her into oblivion.

***

Buffy closed the door behind Will, as he stepped out to return to his own suite. They would be seeing each other again in only a few short hours having made plans for dinner and a night out.

Dazed, she sat on the small couch in the main room, her eyes darting around unfocused. They had made love. Will had made love with her. And for her it was love, but what of him? She knew that he enjoyed sleeping with her. But was that all it was to him?

A determined look swept across Buffy's face, unbeknownst to an unsuspecting Will. And so what if it was only sex to him? He cared for her, at least a little. And maybe, if she played her cards right she could change that. Maybe it wasn't too much to hope that he could love her one day. It was a gamble she knew. One with a large stake. But what the hell? She was on a winning streak.

***

Chapter 14 - A Night on the Town

Buffy was standing in the lobby wearing a new emerald green dress she'd picked up while shopping with Joyce the other day. It was held together with thin spaghetti straps, but came with a glittery jacket that Buffy now wore. She was humming softly as she swept her eyes across the room looking for Will.

"Well, good evening Buffy!" Joyce greeted her. "Haven't seen you outside of your room for a few days." Joyce took in Buffy's appearance, the new dress, the makeup, and the elegant upsweep of her hair. "Are you celebrating something?"

Buffy blushed. She couldn't very well tell Joyce what had happened between William and her. "Uhm.just waiting for Will. He promised to take me out tonight."

Joyce noticed the stain to Buffy's cheeks but did not comment on it. Inwardly she smiled. "Oh? Where are you two heading?"

"Sorry to say mum, but there's more to Vegas than just the Crypt," Spike came up wrapping his arms around Buffy's waist as he answered his mother's question. "Hello luv," he dropped a quick kiss on Buffy's head. "You look beautiful."

The blush darkened as Buffy ducked her head shyly. "Thank you."

Joyce watched the couple's interaction with interest. It was obvious that something had shifted in the relationship. She bit her tongue to keep from voicing her thoughts on *what* exactly had shifted.

"Shall we go luv?" Spike asked, releasing Buffy's waist to take hold of her hand. He nodded farewell to his mum on the way out.

"Have fun you two!" Joyce called after them. She couldn't wait to meet Rupert for dinner and let him know of the latest developments.

***

They were standing in front of the Stratosphere Hotel where the larger than life signs of the tower attractions were brightly lit for display. "You said you wanted some excitement." Spike let his voice trail off, but let her see the challenge in his eyes.

"Uhm." Buffy chewed her lip nervously. She'd seen the challenge and wasn't about to back down. "Okay."

So far Buffy had been amazed at the things they'd seen. Since she'd arrived in Vegas she'd basically confined herself to the Crypt. Will was showing her all the amazing things there were to see in Vegas. He'd started with downtown where all the lights had been strewn and there had even been street performers! Now they were headed for the ride of their lives at the top of the Stratosphere Hotel!

They got into a car together, Buffy shooting nervous glances around her. "Are you sure this is safe?"

Spike chuckled, and winked at her. "Almost everybody who gets on gets off again. The odds are good."

"I've never been on a roller coaster before." Buffy explained.

"I know luv. Just another first you let me share with you." This comment was accompanied by the clasp of his hand to hers. Lifting it, Spike kissed the palm. "Thank you."

When the car started to move Spike kept her hand in his. Buffy buried her face in his shoulder, anxious for the first drop. Spike turned to watch her, waiting for the right moment. The car was still climbing the first hill when Spike reached over and placed his free hand on Buffy's cheek. She looked up at him a question in her eyes. "I want to kiss you," he stated quietly.

"Alright," Buffy's look was slightly dazed, her cheeks flushed from the excitement, "but you could have done *that* on the ground."

She moved toward him, but Spike halted her press forward. "Not yet," and then he waited.

Buffy forgot where they were, staring into Will's endless eyes. The clickety-clack of the car moving up the track wasn't able to distract her. A brief flash of fear stabbed with excitement curled in her stomach when she felt the first gentle tug of gravity as they crested the top of the hill. And at that moment, Spike struck, his lips clashing down onto hers.

Buffy reeled at the sensations. Her stomach was dropping left and right, as Spike explored her mouth with intensity. The exhilaration of the ride, coupled with the feelings Will was stirring in her left Buffy breathless.

Spike plundered her. He'd wanted to do this almost since the moment they met. He'd wanted her. With each twist and turn she clung to him, the waves of fear and arousal washing over him with force. Yes, he'd wanted this. Wanted her complete surrender. And she gave it to him.

The car pulled to a stop and Spike pulled away from her. "God!" The word exploded out of her mouth. "That was incredible." Her grin was brilliant, lighting her whole face. "Can we do it again?"

"Oh yeah," was Spike's only reply.

***

They walked along the street together, hand in hand. "That was amazing! But I don't think I'll be able to walk straight for hours!" She grinned up at him.

"That was all part of my evil plan," Spike smirked. "Now you'll just have to lean on me." His arm wound it's way around her waist, holding her close.

They walked for a few minutes in companionable silence until Spike asked, "Well what would you like to do now luv?"

Buffy look up at him with impish eyes. "Well.I've never seen an exotic dancer." She quirked an eyebrow at him.

"And what else would you like to do?"

"Oh Will! I just wonder what it would be like, you know? Those women dancing around those poles." She batted her eyes at him.

"No." He shook his head in grim determination. "I'm not taking you to a strip club."

Fifteen minutes later they found themselves standing in front of the Gentleman's Club. Spike was still shaking his head. "Ten minutes. And you will not talk while we are in there." Buffy flashed him another smile before walking in.

***

They strolled into Spike's office Buffy talking a mile a minute. "They were so flexible! And the muscle control.they must practice extensively to be able to do that with those poles."

"I still can't believe I let you talk me into taking you there."

"Who would've thought it?" Buffy asked as she took a seat in one of his leather chairs.

"Not me." Spike shook his head at her.

"No. I mean, who would've thought that beneath all that ruggedly suave exterior William Spike Giles was really an old fuddy-duddy."

"Fuddy-duddy?" Spike's scarred eyebrow was lifted almost to his hairline. He wasn't sure whether he should be amused or insulted. "Anyone who uses the expression fuddy-duddy automatically assumes fuddy-duddy status."

Buffy frowned at him. "I've never heard that."

"I'm sure it's written down somewhere." Spike assured her, stepping over to his mini-fridge he pulled out a bottle of champagne and two glasses. "Champagne luv?"

"There's always room for champagne." Buffy laughed. "I can't believe I can say that. It's like one big dream." She took the glass from him, kissing him on the cheek in the process. "Thank you. This has been the most incredibly day of my life. And I've had some pretty incredible days since arriving here."

"Here's to making sure they only get better from here." Spike tinkled their glasses together for the toast, then turned toward his monitors automatically sweeping for any trouble there.

"What do you look for when you watch those?" Buffy asked curiously.

"Different things. Trouble, scams, tells."

"Tells?"

"Everybody has them. Little gestures, nervous habits. Like the way you chew your bottom lip when you're worried or upset." He turned to her, staring at said bottom lip.

"Oh. Or the way you clench you flatten your palms against your pants when you're frustrated, so you don't end up punching someone?" She asked.

Spike's brow raised again. "That's good." He was impressed.

"What do you do if you catch someone cheating?"

"Show them the door," Spike explained.

"That's it?"

"They don't walk out with our money," Spike's voice had gone cold.

"I bet they don't," Buffy murmured.

"We try to keep things as clean as possible. The cameras, the pit bosses they help keep things honest. But to be honest the house always has the upper hand. It's not hard to win here, but odds are you won't keep it for long."

"Because you want to keep playing?"

"And the longer you play, the more chance you'll lose."

"But it's worth it. If you play and enjoy yourself, it's worth it whether you lose or not. As long as it's made you happy," Buffy answered.

"As long as you know what you're risking. As long as you can afford to lose your bet." Spike's words were an echo of the ones he'd said days ago. And Buffy knew they were no longer talking about the table games.

"But that's just part of the draw. The danger that you might lose balances out the thrill of winning." Buffy sighed as he drew closer. "And once you've got a taste for it, you just keep coming back for more." They were closer now, standing only inches apart.

"And why stop at just a taste?" Spike's hands came up to Buffy's shoulders. "Take off your jacket."

"But we're in your office," Buffy protested weakly.

The smile he gave her was predatory and dangerous. Buffy shuddered. "I wanted you here, that first day you walked in. And now I'll have you here. Take of your jacket."

The jacket fell lifeless to the ground, leaving the skin of Buffy's arms pimpled in goose flesh. When she realized that she was chewing her bottom lip, she stopped and grinned sheepishly at him.

Spike's smile was still there, his eyes flashing sparks of ice. "I like knowing I make you a littler nervous. That you're a little afraid, but that you'll melt when I touch you." He moved even closer, his lips ghosting of her newly revealed skin. His hands came up to release in the pins in her hair, before moving over the silky material of her dress. "What have you got under there Buffy?"

"Hardly anything." She gulped slightly, thinking of the small scrap of material she had on underneath.

Spike's body shuddered at the thought, his mouth crashing onto hers to take her in a fierce kiss. When he pulled away he was breathing harshly his eyes were dilated and his skin flushed with arousal. "I don't think I can be gentle this time Buffy. Will you risk it?"

Unable to speak, she only nodded. And then he was upon her. His hands sifted through her loosened hair, his mouth wandered over her heated skin. He pulled her down until they were both on the floor, desperately he reached to undo her dress, letting the sheer material fall.

Buffy's own hands were busy, pulling at the dinner jacket Will wore, and then working on the button to his trousers. Soon they were both gloriously naked. The feeling that they were doing something naughty, being together here, on the floor in his office made Buffy's whole body sing with passion.

He kissed and nipped whatever skin was exposed to him. Whatever he could get his lips on, his hands to touch. Buffy was mewling and writing beneath him. Her whole body relaxed, taut only with desire and heat. Her head lolled back as she gave in to the sensations. Spike automatically cushioned her neck with his hand, bringing her back up so that he could plunder her mouth. "Stay with me." He whispered to her mesmerized form. And then he was kissing her again.

Buffy felt Will reverse their positions, so that he was laying on the floor beneath her. He pulled at her until she was above him straddling him with her lithe body. "Take what you want." He demanded, and then he was guiding her toward him. She lowered herself slowly feeling every inch enter her quivering form. She felt an incredible sweep of power at the fact that she could control their lovemaking. That he had given that to her.

They thrust together. Spike's hands wandered from her breasts to her hips and back again, seemingly unable to stay still. She felt as his grip tightened, as he struggled for control, waiting, waiting until she was ready. When her climax hit she cried out, her back bowed and she nearly collapsed on top of him. Before she could, he'd rolled them over. He thrust himself into her, losing all control. He plunged into her body, his blood pumping furiously, his heart pounding. Finally he found his release pouring himself into her, his body, his mind, his soul.

***

Chapter 15 - An Unexpected Phone Call

Buffy was busy rearranging the furniture in her suite when her phone rang. She had just placed the comfy couch back in its original position perpendicular to the bar when she heard the shrill cry. Smiling she reached for the receiver hoping it would be Spike on the other end.

"Hello?" Her voice was a bit breathless from her earlier exertions, but the smile she sported was clear in her greeting.

"What's got you so worked up girl?" The voice on the other end boomed.

Buffy's smiled widened. "Mr. Giles!" She got comfortable on the couch, settling down Indian style before continuing, "how are you?"

"Fine lass, fine! And what have you been up to?" The voice sounded slightly amused.

"Oh!" Buffy colored wondering at the tone of Giles' voice. "Just moving some furniture."

"Aye. And is my grandson there helping you 'move furniture'?" Giles was definitely hinting at something. Buffy's blush deepened.

"No. He's working, probably in his office. Were you looking for him?"

"No lass, I was calling for you. Just thought I'd ask after him is all. Never know what's happening with that infernal boy, always too busy to call his grandmum. She worries you know," Giles tried to insist. Buffy just grinned, having heard this lament several times during Giles' stay at the hotel.

"What were you calling to speak with me about?" Buffy asked after a moment.

"Oh," Giles' tone was solemn. "I thought I ought to let you know I lost everything in a leverage buyout."

"Everything?" The word was a whisper.

"Yes. I'm sorry."

Buffy couldn't breathe. And then she was breathing too much. She sat abruptly hoping to lessen the fall if she ended up fainting.

"Buffy! Buffy!" She heard Giles calling her name from far away. "I was just joking child." He was chuckling loudly.

"Joking?" It seemed all she could do was parrot his words.

"Yes. Actually I called to let you know we've made some money. Or I should say you've made some money. You should go out and buy yourself something pretty." She could hear him smiling through the phone.

"You've made money? Already?" Buffy's voice was still faint just barely above a whisper.

"Yes, nothing big just a quick fifty. We're just getting our feet wet." Giles answered.

"Oh." She should be happy but she felt slightly disappointed. "Well, I can get a nice pair of earrings for $50 dollars - " she began but was quickly cut-off.

"Fifty thousand!" The voice was once again roaring with mirth.

"Oh."

"Oh indeed. Goodness lass, you sound the same when you've made money as you do when you think you've lost it!" He chuckled again. "That shows a strong constitution. Shows a lot of mettle, a lot of nerve."

"I don't know about the mettle. But I definitely feel a lot of nerves." Buffy answered, rubbing at the butterflies in her stomach.

"You've got those aplenty that's for sure!" She could tell he was smiling again. "Now go out and get yourself a nice trinket."

"Yes sir!" She answered smartly. Before he could hang up Buffy steeled herself to ask, "Giles?"

"Yes lass?"

"Spike said...well...he said that you might have been trying to..." She chewed at her bottom lip absently. "He said that you thought I might suit him. You know...and that he was afraid you might be putting ideas in my head..."

"What?" Giles voice was full of innocent rebuke. "When have I ever tried to interfere? Have I said anything to you lass? Have I tried to push you his way? No! I was just enjoying a pleasant visit with my grandson and this is what I get?"

"No...that is...I'm sorry." Buffy was chagrined. "I didn't meant to cause any trouble. Of course you wouldn't think that, I mean...I'm just...I..."

"Now you stop that young lady! Of course you'd suit him! I was just saying that I'm not the type of busybody to interfere in something like that! Wherever do these children get their ideas?"

The corners of Buffy's mouth lifted slightly. "So you do think, maybe we might be a match for each other?" She asked tentatively.

"I think you'd suit each other just fine." Giles voice turned conspiratorial, "are you setting your sights on my boy?"

Buffy blushed once more. "I...well...yes."

"Good!"

"I..." Buffy hesitated only a moment. "I think I might already be in love with him."

Giles gave a silent whoop at her quiet statement. "Well lass, the boy would be stupid to turn a woman like you away. And Giles men are definitely not stupid."

"Thank you Giles." Buffy felt buoyed by the encouragement.

"You're welcome Buffy. Now go out and treat yourself to something beautiful."

"I will." She was grinning again. "I will."

***

Buffy was bouncing with excitement. When she'd left her suite earlier she'd decided that she didn't need anymore jewelry or new dresses, but there was something she was sorely in need of, a new studio.

She'd found the perfect location. And the perfect place. It used to be an old furniture warehouse store. Not too big, but just the right size. She'd have to renovate a few things; rewire the lighting, put in a few mirrors, and clear out a lot of junk. But those were all things that would just make the place that much more hers.

At first she wanted to tell Spike right away, she'd almost gone straight up to his office when she'd gotten back, but then she thought better of it. The place wasn't hers yet, she still had to put in a bid and she wouldn't know for sure if it had been accepted for at least a few days. So she decided to wait until everything was official before she broke the news.

When the elevator dinged alerting her that she had reached her floor, she stepped out with a skip. She let out a yelp when she felt strong hands grab hold of her. With practiced grace she stepped back using her assailant's own momentum to knock him off balance. Pivoting sideways she grabbed hold of the wrist closest to her, only then realizing who it was that had a hold of her.

"Where 'ave you been?" She noticed how Will's accent grew thicker when he was upset, though why he should be upset was a puzzle to her.

"I went exploring. I wanted to see the town." She answered, stepping further back and away from his grabbing hands. She had a feeling that if he still had hold of her he'd be shaking her back and forth roughly.

Spike took a few moments to calm himself. He'd grown slightly panicked when he'd come looking for her and hadn't been able to find her anywhere in the hotel. He almost couldn't admit the depth of his relief when he'd seen her step off the elevator.

"You should have told me you wanted to go out, I would have taken you." He tried to steady his breathing. Why should he react so intensely?

"I knew you were busy."

"Not too busy." His hand was up cupping her cheek and warming it. He stared into her eyes for a moment before leaning down and pressing their lips together. He nibbled at her bottom lip causing it to redden and puff before pulling away. "In fact my parents have kicked me out for the night. They told me to go out and relax for a bit." He grabbed her hand and walked her back to her suite. "Why don't you go and get changed. We'll have a bite and go for that drive grandda wanted us to take." He kissed her cheek this time his hand lingered in hers as he stepped away. "I'll be back up in 30 minutes." And then he was walking away, stepping into the elevator, a smirk on his lips as the doors slid shut.

Buffy closed her eyes, savoring the flavor of the intimate moment they'd just shared. Had he been worried about her? It was a small thing, but it made her heart soar. Maybe her hand wasn't as bad as she'd first feared. Maybe she actually stood a chance at taking the pot. If only he'd call her bet.

***

Chapter 16 - A Date in the Desert

The air was warm and dry, the wind whipping Buffy's hair around her face. She inhaled deeply taking in the scents of the desert as they drove through the silent scenery, cacti and tumbleweeds speckling the area. The sky was just turning a dusky rose, the sun setting slowly in the West.

She turned to study the man beside her. His face was set in an unreadable mask, though she could tell he enjoyed the drive through the relaxed state of his shoulders. His hair stood still, curled at the ends through sheer will of gel. She smiled at the thought. He wore a blood red t-shirt and black jeans, while a waist length black leather jacket graced his shoulders. In short he was beautiful, though she thought he'd probably balk at the word. She'd turned back to the desert, taking in the sights that whizzed by.

Spike had felt her studying him and suppressed a tiny shiver. He felt as her eyes roamed his body and ached for her hands to follow. What was it about this woman? About Buffy? He couldn't seem to get enough of her and yet, he knew that one day, he wouldn't have any of her. He frowned at the thought.

When he felt her gaze turn to the miles of sand and rock, he let his own eyes wander. She was beautiful tonight, as always. Instead of the short summer dresses she'd been wearing, she'd opted for a white cropped top and a pair of cut-offs. Her slim legs seemed to go on forever, while the small expanse of skin he caught at her midsection had him half hard already.

Abruptly he took a turn off on the road, taking them deeper into the desert. "Where are we going?" Buffy asked for the fiftieth time since they began, "Why won't you tell me?"

"I told you luv. It's a surprise. Can't really describe it anyway, doesn't have a name. Just a place I know. A place I go; to think, to relax." Spike tried to explain. He didn't know why he wanted to take her there. Only that he knew she would love it as much as he did.

The car slowed to a halt, sand and gravel crunching beneath the stilled tires. Spike smiled when he heard Buffy's gasp. He somehow felt...lighter...knowing that he'd been right. That she'd have the same reaction to this place that he'd always had.

"Like it luv?" He whispered into the stillness.

"It's beautiful."

They both stepped out of the car together. Spike came around to the passenger side to grab hold of Buffy's hand. Buffy was in an awe inspired shock. Before them was a deep chasm. The walls were rugged and chipped, and it looked almost like a mini-Grand Canyon. She'd never been, but had seen pictures of course. And just beyond the edge of the chasm was the brilliant orange glow of the sunset.

Spike led Buffy to small outcropping of rock. "Wait here." And then he turned back toward the car. She was still standing by the rocks watching the setting sun when Spike returned with the blanket and picnic basket. He spread the blanket on the larger of the two rock formations, and placed the basket on the smaller. "A convenient dining table," he gestured flashing her a wicked grin.

She sat on the offered blanket, folding her legs beneath her and waited for him to join her. He sat to her left then reached over to the picnic basket and began spreading out their fare. It wasn't much, just some French bread, cheese, assorted fruit and a nice white wine. But it somehow seemed right, just like sitting here on this rock with him felt right. Buffy couldn't remember every being more comfortable or feeling more serene.

The rock they sat on was smooth and had a small dip in its center, almost as if it were made for reclining and relaxing. Buffy took full advantage and spread herself languidly. At her movement Spike turned his eyes boring into hers as she stretched out on the outcropping. Buffy felt her cheeks warm, the color rising at Spike's heated look.

Spike felt as if he'd been caught in a trap. Mesmerized by her he could do nothing else but reach toward her and pull her in. His arm wrapped around her waist and brought their bodies together. His lips crashed onto hers, his tongue forcing her mouth open. Buffy's quiet murmurs speared him on, and he let himself give in to the passion surging through him.

While his tongue explored the moist cavern of her mouth, he let his hands wander the curves of her body. His fingers whispered over her skin making her tingle and arch into the touch. He let his hand come up and dive beneath her top until he felt the hard peak of her breast. The thin silk covering only heightened his arousal.

"Will." The name was only a breathless whisper.

"Luv." He kissed her once, twice. "Buffy I need you." He thrust his erection against her hip. "God, how I want you!" His lips left hers to explore the nape of her neck. His tongue trailed down her smooth skin leaving goosebumps in its wake.

Spike's head was spinning. How was it that every time they were alone together he lost control? What was it about her that sent him reeling? Did it matter?

Desperate now he tugged at the buttons of her cut-offs. Lowering the offending garment as quickly as possible he cupped her mound feeling the moist heat even through her lacy underwear. "Are you ready for me luv?" He slipped the material off letting his hand rub the smooth flesh of her inner thigh on the way back up.

"Yes Will. Always." Buffy's eyes were closed, heat poured off her in waves. She wanted to cry and laugh and scream all at once. She felt like she was free falling through the air, the sensations overwhelming her. Was this what they meant? Was this what falling in love felt like?

Spike took a moment to study his lover. She lay in a passionate sprawl across the stone bed. Her eyes closed, her cheeks red, and her lips swollen. Her hair was a rumpled halo around her head making her look like some sort of debauched angel. He felt something sharp twist inside him and then there was no more time for looking, no more time for thinking.

Spike's own clothes were quickly disposed of. And as he entered her he dipped his head down to feather light kisses all over her face. When he was finally buried inside her he whispered, "Open your eyes luv." When she complied he touched his forehead to hers and began a slow steady rhythm.

They made love slow and sweet, their eyes never leaving each other. In hers Spike saw something that made his gut wrench and his pace quicken. What he saw tore through him like a knife. She was in love with him. There was no denying it. She wore it openly, whether she knew it or not. And at once he felt his own heart expand and contract almost painfully.

His eyes closed briefly. There was no denying it. He would have to give her up now. She loved him, yes. But she wasn't ever really given a choice was she? She'd never been anywhere, known anyone besides Trader's Corners and her pathetic excuse for an ex-fiance. He couldn't keep her for himself. She didn't belong here. She deserved better. She deserved a chance to find all those things she'd never known before.

These thoughts flitted through his head even as he increased his speed and flew toward his climax. He made sure to bring her with him, his hand snaking down to the vee between her legs. She cried out her release only seconds before his own. And though his body was sated and full Spike's soul was left aching and wanting.

***

Chapter 17 - Just One More Night

Spike drove back through the desert his thoughts of Buffy and the night they'd shared. He'd never had such a rush of feeling overwhelm him during love making before, and he wasn't quite sure how to react to it. His first instinct was to deny it.

After all, they had only just met. And even if he did have stronger feelings for her than he'd originally thought, there was still no way for him to reasonably give in to them. He had no right to keep her here, in Vegas, with him. She deserved the whole picture, the husband, the house, and the kids. What could he give her? A casino full of money hungry gamblers? No. He couldn't. He wouldn't. Even if she thought she was in love with him.

He regretted ever touching her. Oh, not because he hadn't wanted to, or because he hadn't love every minute. But because it would only make it that much harder for him. He wanted her even now, only hours after they'd made love. Spike closed his eyes and sighed. Gods how he wanted her.

Opening his eyes once more he stared at the long stretch of road ahead. He would have to give her up soon, he knew, but he wanted just a little more time, just one more night. He rubbed at his chest, an unfamiliar ache seeping through his skin.

***

Buffy woke the next morning so full of joy she thought she'd burst. The night they'd spent in the desert could have been taken right from her dreams. The beauty of the land and the warmth of William's touch combined to make her whole body tingle and sigh.

She hummed as she got herself ready for the day, smiling at her image in the mirror as she brushed out her hair. She could still feel Will's slender fingers combing through the strands as he kissed her last night. Closing her eyes, she sighed and let her love for him engulf her. Could he be falling in love with her too? She could only pray that he was.

The things she saw in his eyes, and the gentle feel of his hands on her last night had to mean that he felt more than just physical attraction. She was naïve, she knew, but she couldn't imagine that he didn't care for her at least a little bit. And who knew if that caring could blossom in to love?

Putting the finishing touches on her lip gloss, Buffy strolled out of her suite intent on spending the day enjoying life and the prospect of a new found love.

***

'What am I doing?' Spike thought as the door to Buffy's suite swung open. He should end this now, before he got any deeper, but the moment he saw her he knew that he'd need at least this one night before he let her go.

She stood before him dressed in a black velvet cocktail gown that came to just above her knees. It was sleeveless, but she had topped it off with a sheer black scarf that she'd wrapped around her neck twice yet still hung down to brush against her calves. She spun for his approval and Spike was unable to keep his eyes from devouring her.

She'd left her hair loose, but had curled it to give it some body. It framed her face in a soft halo that bounced as she spun. The soft colors she'd chosen for her makeup only accentuated the natural beauty she bore.

Spike caught his breath. He felt himself grow hard at the sight of her. Growling he entered her room, shutting the door with a snap of his wrist. "Buffy," he groaned at as he reached for her.

He kissed her hard, feeling desperate for want of her. In the back of his mind the thought that this would be their last night together drove him. "Let's not go out," he whispered between kisses. "I want to make love to you," his mouth trailed wetly down her throat. "I *need* to make love to you," his voice was filled with the urgency that drove him.

"Yes, Will. Yes." She whispered back, letting him explore her body.

He lifted her gently, cradling her slim body in his arms. Swiftly he carried her to the bedroom, laying her down on the silk sheets. He stood back and drank her in. Her mouth already swollen from his kisses, her eyes dazed with desire for him.

Slowly he returned to her, his hands steeling out to undo the zip on the back of her dress. He lifted her to her knees, sliding the dress down her body, leaving her in nothing but a lacy black thong and her calf length scarf. His body twitched at the thought that she hadn't been wearing a bra and at the sight of her nearly nude form.

He moved forward and took one of her hardened nipples in his mouth, suckling it gently. He teased her puckered flesh with his teeth and tongue, until she moaned and swayed toward him, her hands reaching up to grasp his head.

The moment her fingers touched his scalp he lost control. Tearing his mouth away from her, his hand reached down and grasped the elastic band of her panties. Pulling hard he ripped the material from her body, leaving her shuddering and gasping at his aggressiveness.

She kneeled before him now in only the sheer black fabric of her scarf. The material framed her body, the contrast bringing out the stark paleness of her skin where the sun had not been able to tan. She shivered at the intense look he used to peruse her naked flesh.

Even as he stripped his own body bare Spike never took his eyes off her.

Once he was free from any cloth barriers, Spike pounced. He maneuvered Buffy so that she was lying beneath him, his body encased by her naked thighs. Lowering himself he let their lips meet in a languid kiss, until the urgency once more built up into a frenzy, and he found himself shuddering at the need coursing through him.

He entered her then, her name a moan escaping his lips, "Buffy." He felt her trembling beneath him; her hands coming up to roam across his back as she met him thrust for thrust. Her breath became ragged and she panted his name, "Will...oh...will!"

He could feel the pressure building and knew it wouldn't be much longer. His body ached for release. Ached to fill her, marking her as his. Unknowingly he began chanting her name under his breath, "Buffy, Buffy, Buffy."

When her climax hit, Spike was unprepared for the force of it. Her shudders became wild and she contracted almost painfully around him. The sensations nearly overwhelmed him, but they were nothing compared to hearing her cry out for him. Hearing her sharp intake of breath and the shout that escaped as she came, "Will, oh god! I love you!"

The words washed through him, making him tremble and shake. He'd known it, but having her say it aloud made him feel giddy and fearful all at once. The thought of it...of having love...having *her* love caused his own orgasm to peak. The thrill of it rushed through him as he spilled inside her.

Afterwards they lay together in quiet satiation. Their bodies tired and glinting with sweat, Spike wrapped an arm around Buffy and pulled her close. And in the afterglow of their lovemaking, Spike's heart wrenched.

***

Chapter 18 - Dreams

Buffy woke up the next morning alone in bed. She pulled the pillow next to her close and inhaled William's musky scent. She smiled at the reminder of her lover, and then smiled some more at the fact that she had a lover. Who would have thought that she would be living a high roller's life in Las Vegas, taking a lover, and building a whole new life?

After her shower and quick breakfast provided by room service, Buffy sat down to skim the morning paper. Before she could get through the front page her phone was ringing and she jumped up to grab the receiver.

"Hello?" She asked breathlessly, her features turning from curious to delighted, "Really?!" She managed to squeak out. "It's official?" Her head bobbed up and down at each new fact the caller announced. "When can I see it? Today?"

After a few more happy words, Buffy dropped the receiver back into place. It was hers! The studio owner had accepted her offer and they would be going into escrow as soon as all the papers could be filed! She couldn't believe it. Spreading her arms wide she spun in a circle, smiling and laughing at the thought of once more having eager to learn students at her feet.

The first thing she wanted to do was call Will and let him know the good news. She couldn't wait to share her happiness with someone. Who better than the man she was in love with? The real estate agent had told her she could pick up the keys that afternoon for a quick look through. Although the property wouldn't become hers officially until escrow closed, the current owner was fine with her doing a walk through to start compiling the things she would need for the renovation. She wanted Will to be there with her so that he could see the space she'd picked out.

Quickly she dialed his office number and waited as the phone rang. His assistant picked up and greeted her with a warm, "Hello." Within a few seconds she was connected and Will's rich accent was filling her ear.

"Spike here." The greeting was crisp as usual.

"Hi Will!" Buffy couldn't contain her excitement.

"Hello.Buffy." Spike's gut twisted at the sound of her voice. The pain in his chest grew inexorably at the thought that he couldn't allow himself the fantasy any longer. What could he say? How could he explain to her? Images of last night's love making assailed him as she continued to speak.

"Could we have lunch today? I have a surprise to show you!" Buffy was exuberant, having no idea of Will's current internal dilemma.

Spike came back to himself at the invitation. See her again? He couldn't, not if he expected to keep his hands off her. "Sorry, luv. I'm afraid I've got a busy day today. Won't be able to see you." There, he just had to ease in to it.

"Oh."

He could practically hear the pout in her voice and he had to check the impulse to make it better.

"That's okay, I understand. What about dinner tonight?" She asked hopefully.

Shaking his head Spike replied, "Sorry, luv. I'm afraid I've taken too much time off work already. I've got a lot to catch up on." Spike squeezed his eyes shut at the white lie.

"Oh." Buffy's head was spinning. It was because of her that he'd been taking time off, so she couldn't be upset, could she? "That's okay. Maybe I'll see you tomorrow?"

"Maybe." Spike's answer was noncommittal. "I'll call you."

Buffy hung up the phone in a daze. Her high spirits having completely fled at the tone of the conversation she'd just shared with Will. He'd sounded so.indifferent.as if he could care less one way or the other when they would next see each other.

Had she been so naïve to believe he might have had feelings for her? Or maybe she was just overreacting. He did have a lot of responsibilities and he had taken a lot of time off to be with her this past week. Maybe he really was just busy. She perked up slightly at the thought. She would just have to show him her new studio later, when he was free, that's all.

For now she needed to get ready to see her new space. But she was still too excited and happy to go alone, she wanted to share her feelings with someone, so she once again dialed the phone.

"Hello?"

"Joyce? It's Buffy. Are you busy this afternoon?"

They arrived at the empty building just after 2 pm. They'd had a quick lunch at the buffet at the Crypt and then did a quick circuit of the shops before heading out. As they pulled up to the property Joyce gave out a low whistle.

"Buffy, this is just perfect." They stepped out of the car at the same time, as Joyce continued to speak. "This is a great location, close to several suburban neighborhoods, and far enough from the strip that families wouldn't mind bringing their kids here." She turned to take a look at the building itself. "And it's so large! What a great space!"

"It is wonderful, isn't it?" Buffy asked, her eyes wide and her face flushed. "It's twice the size of the studio I had in Trader's Corners, and the location is wonderful. I bet I'll have students knocking on my door before I even finish the renovations! It's like a dream come true."

Joyce watched Buffy and couldn't help having some of the young woman's excitement rub off on her. "I'm sure you'll be a huge success!" Hooking arms they entered the building together.

"I know it doesn't look like much from the inside. It's been abandoned for awhile. But I have the money to restore it, and it'll be perfect once I'm through with it." Buffy spoke in rush.

"It's already perfect Buffy." Joyce answered. "Why didn't you invite William out to see it with us?" Joyce wondered absently, but her gaze focused sharply at the slight frown that marred Buffy's brow at the question.

"Oh, I tried. He was too busy at the office." Buffy shrugged trying to appear nonchalant.

Joyce's own smiled curved down for a moment. Will was busy, but she didn't think he was any busier than usual.

"I'm so happy that you'll be staying in Vegas dear." Joyce walked over next to Buffy. "That means we'll be able to see each other whenever I visit." She gave the younger woman a quick hug. "And of course you'll always be welcome at the Atlantic City Crypt. As well as the Sunnydale Castle, as I'm sure Giles has told you!" Joyce smiled down at her.

"Yes." Buffy laughed at Joyce's fervor. "I've fallen in love with the desert. I've also fallen in love with your family. So don't be surprised if I take you up on those offers!" Buffy smiled up at her.

Joyce's expression turned suddenly serious, making Buffy gulp nervously. "Is that all you've fallen in love with?" The question was voiced quietly, Joyce's eyes never leaving Buffy's.

They stared at each other for a moment. Buffy's eyes began to tear up before she answered in a barely audible whisper, "No."

"Oh my dear." Joyce pulled Buffy into a warm hug. "Don't worry, everything will turn out beautifully. I know my son; he can be as stubborn as his father, but just like Rupert when he loves, he does it with his entire being."

"I suppose that only matters if he's actually fallen in love." Buffy pulled away, sniffling quietly.

"Like I said, I know my son. Things will work out, you'll see." Joyce reassured her.

Buffy only nodded.

***

She was surrounded by beautiful women; long legs, and big breasts abounded. The music surged around her as the women lined up and began to kick, the sequins on what little clothing they wore sparkling under the stage lights. Buffy felt like a kitten in a den of lionesses. This was the kind of woman Will wanted. The kind of woman that could capture and *keep* his interest.

Buffy twisted and turned in her sheets, her head thrashing on the soft pillow as the dream tormented her. A loud clap of thunder boomed outside her window and she shot out of bed her heart pounding furiously.

Turning toward the window to acknowledge the rain, she fell back her head landing on the crumpled pillow, her breathing harsh. As her pulse calmed an icy determination came over her. Whether Will wanted her or not wouldn't change the course of events she'd put into place since arriving in Vegas. This *would* be her new home. She'd never go back to Trader's Corners. And if Will didn't want her; didn't love her? Well, her heart would mend wouldn't it? People didn't actually die of broken hearts did they?

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