Summary: AU Hank Summers is a former high school football coach and a recovered alcoholic who's became a boxing trainer. He has a rising star named Spike that he loves like a son but also has a daughter, Buffy, from his broken marriage. Tragedy strikes and she comes back to his life, with a huge grudge and a backlog of accusations. How will she find it in her heart to forgive and heal old wounds? Why would she even want to?… Spuffy (family issues aside… or not ;)

Rating: R

Disclaimer: All characters belong to Joss Whedon, Mutant Enemy, UPN, etc.

Buffy woke up and found herself in a moving bus. It was hot and crowded, the road was bumpy and a man besides her was snoring. His head jerked forward every time the bus jumped, but it didn’t seem to bother him. The fact that she’d slept at all seemed strange to her, she couldn't remember the last time she’d had any sleep, not the deep kind of sleep anyway.

Not since her mother died. It had only been only two months but it seemed shorter. Time seemed to have frozen since she’d found her, dead, on the couch, and now she was heading to L.A, the last place on earth she wanted to be and meeting the last man she wanted to meet - Hank summers. Last time she’d seen him he was drunk, and having one of his usual fights with her mother. She was fifteen then and now she was twenty-one and dear old dad claimed to be sober. Said on the phone that he was a changed man. Said that he had a career now as a coach - boxing no less. He used to teach high school football, and now he was training some guy named after a pointy object. Buffy was outraged by the thought of it. He said he was a nice guy, but it sounded like Hank had finally found some monkey to do his chores for him and give him back his long lost pride.

Buffy looked around and realised the bus had stopped.

The man besides her woke up, blinked and looked around then at her face."I guess we're in L.A." He gave her a tinny smile and got up to grab his things.

I guess we are. Buffy did the same but with less enthusiasm.

"Get up you git!" Spike shouted at the young man who was lying on the floor. "Is that all you got? He smirked.

"Shut up Spike...I swear as soon as I find out which one of you is real I'm gonna kick your ass." Gunn tried to get up but fell back.

"O.k, come on Charlie boy." Spike smiled and reached out a hand for his friend. "Maybe you’ve had enough for one day?"

"You think!?" Gunn looked at him, annoyed.

"Okay hit the shower, I'm gonna do some laps."

Gunn started walking out of the ring, but then turned around.

"Where’s Hank? Didn't see him today."

"Oh. I 'll come back later, he went to bring his daughter from the bus station.

"Yeah, heard about that, I'll bet she's a hottie."

"I've seen her picture once and yeah, she's okay" Spike shrugged.

"Just okay it doesn’t sound so good coming from big bad Spike…"

"Well she was fifteen then and she's blond so definitely not my type."

"My bleached- headed friend, I've seen your type, she was creepy."

"Dru was just fine!" Spike snapped.

"For a blood sucker maybe," Gunn teased and saw his friend's eyes narrow.

"Aren't you going somewhere?" Spike said with a glare

"Fine, fine I'm going."

As his friend left the room Spike sighed, he really didn't want to spend the day in the gym by himself. Hank bringing Buffy into his life wasn’t the best of timing right now. A big fight was coming soon and he still wasn't prepared. Hope you know what you’re doing hank, he thought as he took off his gloves.

"And this will be your room." Hank looked at the small room he’d fixed for his daughter and then at her. He tried to get her to say something to him but she hadn't talked since the bus station. It seemed she was still in Sunnydale or some other far away place.

"You have men’s clothes in here." Buffy looked at the jacket on the chair.

"Oh, that one belongs to Spike he probably forgot it last time he was here." Hank walked across the room and picked up the jacket.

"He sleeps here?"

"No, no…well not usually…sometimes we lose track of time so he stays the night, but don't worry honey now that you’re here, I'm going to spend my spare time with you."

"You sure he won't mind?" Buffy scoffed.

"He'll get over it. He's a tough guy"

"I'm sure" she mumbled, and looked away.

"Yeah…but he's smart too, you'll like him honey. I'm sure you'll have a lot to talk about."

"I don't know Hank, haven’t met a lot of boxers who like to talk about art and politics."

"Well maybe he'll surprise you, maybe I'll surprise you as well. Then you could call me dad again. You think you could do that Buffy?" His voice was full of hope.

Buffy just looked down.

"Okay. I'll fix us some lunch and then we go down town"

Hank saw that Buffy wasn't responding and he turned to leave, but not before giving his daughter a last glance.

"Okay" he said again, and left.

"This is where you work?" Buffy looked at the old building.

"It isn't so bad. It looks better inside, come in." Hank opened the door.

"Here we have the ring and out back in the yard we have the workout equipment." They walked together and Hank pointed to the place he was talking about.

"And this is my office." Hank stood next to the door and waited for Buffy's response.

"Aren’t you going to invite me in?"

"Sure honey," Hank smiled and opened the door.

Buffy entered and saw a young blond sitting in her dad’s chair. He looked at both of them, surprised.

"Spike! You’re here, " Hank smiled. " Come and meet Buffy".

Spike got up from his chair and stood next to Hank, and the girl in front of him.

"Nice to meet you." He reached out his hand. "Heard a lot about you."

Buffy took his hand, a look of discontent on her face. "Can't say the same about you," she muttered.

"Is that right?" Spike caught her words.

Buffy looked him in the eye and saw he was staring blatantly back at her. She gave him a long, hard look.

Spike was impressed she wasn't looking away. Well this is interesting, he thought. Feisty little thing aren't you.

Hank felt the tension in the room and just as Spike was about the say more he intervened

"Right, lets show Buffy the rest of the place! What do you say Spike?"

"My pleasure" Spike threw a smile in Buffy's direction and saw her roll her eyes.

The two blonds walked through the door and heard Hank suggest that Spike join them for dinner. Looking at each other they both knew it was going to be along night.

Hank's dinner didn't go as planned. He tried his best to make conversation, but it seemed like his daughter wasn't interested in anything but looking daggers at the blond man in front of her. When they finished their meal the three just sat and stared at each other.

"I guess I'll take the dishes" Hank said, getting up.

"Leave it Hank." Spike quickly stopped him. "I'll take care of it later." He looked at him and indicated him to sit down.

"Gee Hank, looks like you found the son you never had," Buffy sneered. She turned to look between the two men and stopped at Spike's scolding gaze.

"I guess you can say that Hank is like a father to me," he tried to say it as calmly as he could.

"What do you know, and what does your real father think about that?"

"I don't have a father…I'm an orphan"

"Oh." Buffy turned red.

Kinda got your foot in mouth huh pet? Spike almost laughed at the young woman’s expression.

"I think we all need some fresh air," Hank stated clapping his hands together and getting up from his chair. "Why won't you two go to the balcony," he suggested. "I'll join you in a while."

"You alright hank?" Spike asked, concern in his voice.

"I just need a little rest."

"You sure?" Buffy asked, and the two man looked at her surprised.

"Yeah honey I'm fine why won't you go with Spike?" He turned to his bedroom and

Buffy looked at Spike as he led the way.

They stood together and leaned on the handrail, Buffy turning her gaze to the view as Spike stared at her, trying to figure out what was going on in her head. She was obviously still upset with her father, but it didn’t seem to be the usual parent’s divorce grudge. He looked at her and knew what he had to do to make her open up.

"So…are you always that bitchy? Or is this a one time performance of the Buffy show?

"Excuse me? " Buffy looked at him surprised.

"I just don't get why you would come all this way if you’re not going to give him a second chance?" Spike looked at her cold face and wondered if he didn't overstepped the mark.

"Excuse me? Did you hold his hand in rehab or something? Buffy scoffed.

"I don't remember you being a part of my family…hell, I don't even know you!"

Spike looked at her and tried not to take her words too personally because on some level he knew she was right. She’d only known him for a few hours, he was a complete stranger to her.

"I understand where you're coming from," he said in a low voice, but I’ve known Hank for a couple of years now, I know his past and I know he's a good man. He wants to make things better between you two, and I think he deserves a chance."

"Oh! You think so? That's rich. "Buffy said, unimpressed.

She gave Spike one last, harsh glance and turned to leave. Without thinking Spike grabbed her arm and she looked at him, shocked.

"I-I'm sorry" he quickly dropped his hand.

"Don't come near me," Buffy said harshly.

Spike looked at the raging girl in front of him and knew this was a battle he wouldn't win.

"I just wanted to help" he whispered.

"You want to help? Great, then stay out of my business."

And with that she stormed out.

tbc

It was 3 a.m. and Buffy was lying in bed, staring at the ceiling. The room was small and smelled of smoke and some manly scent she couldn't put her finger on. Probably mr. passive aggressive guy she thought. Spike’s remarks didn't bother her so she convinced herself it was his know it all attitude that had made her so cross. She didn't believe for one moment that her dad had changed. People never change, you know that Buffy, she thought. Especially men…they always let you down. Her thoughts moved to Angel and their last encounter, after which he’d left her standing and walked away without looking back. He hadn't given her lengthy explanations. He didn't have to, she know goodbyes well. She knew even without having to hear the actual words. It was a given in her life, and she knew when it was forever. But at least Angel had a reason for leaving, lame as it was. Riley hadn't even said goodbye, he’d just betrayed her. Made her feel bad for not being there. For not giving him enough. And then he’d made her choose. Thinking about it again made Buffy’s blood boil and it made her feel angry, frustrated and furious. But most of all she felt guilt.

Maybe I'm not enough, she thought. Maybe I'm one of those people who aren’t capable of loving or being close to those who love them. She sighed and closed her eyes. I guess you and me have something in comment after all Hank.

Spike was standing in the doorway. He’d never seen Hank so worked up as this before.

Hank held the phone with a strong grip and talked low, but harshly.

"He'll be ready, I'm telling you Jim , he can fight anyone, anytime. He's ready dammit!" Hank tried to keep his cool

"yes, yes…okay…bye"

Spike entered the room as Hank put the phone down.

"Problem?" he asked, worried.

Hank turned his gaze from the phone and looked as if he’d just notice Spike's presence. He shook his head and sighed.

"Have you seen Buffy?" he asked suddenly.

"Didn't know she was here." Spike was still concerned, he knew Hank was hiding something.

"Who was on the pho-"

"I need to go somewhere." Hank cut him off and walked quickly to the door.

He turned to him just before he left.

"Find Buffy, tell her I'll be back at noon."

"Hank-" Spike tried to stop him but he'd already left.

Bugger! I don't have time for this. Spike looked for Buffy but didn't see her anywhere. She wasn't in the back yard or the office. So where the bloody hell could she possibly be? He decided to look in the storeroom. It was a long shot but what choice did he have?

He entered the small room and noticed her, standing with her back to him, unaware he was near. After taking a few steps he saw she was holding something. A photograph? He leaned closer and now he could tell it was a photo of her mother.

Hank had showed it to him once, he really didn't know how he could remember that, but he did.

Spike didn't know how she'd react to his presence, considering their last ‘conversation’.

"Hey pet," he said simply.

Buffy turned quickly and saw Spike staring at her. She looked agitated, like she'd been disturbed from some deep thoughts.

"Sorry...didn't mean to startle you."

"You didn't," she said firmly and put the photo in the back pocket of her jeans.

They looked at each other for a few seconds, Spike trying to remember why he was there.

"Hank had some business, said he'll be back at noon."

"Oh….okay." Buffy looked a little relieved.

Anther pause, both blonds just looked at each other.

"Are you alright?" Spike asked. He knew when a girl was crying, and he could tell she was one of those people whose faces turned red when they cried. Must be a bitch being tough as she is and in such a vulnerable state. And not being able to hide it.

"I'm fine," she shrugged.

"You just look a little shaken."

"What are you, some shrink?" she snapped, in a low voice.

Spike smiled at that.

"What?"

Buffy looked at Spike puzzled, but he said nothing. He shook his head and took a step back, as if he was going to leave.

"Wait." Buffy stopped him.

He looked at her and saw she wanted to say something important. He also saw a brief flicker of hesitation in her eyes, but then it was gone and she was cold again. Obviously trying hard to hold back her emotions.

"I-I was thinking about last night…I might have been a little harsh…I don’t usually act like that. I'm…"

"Apology accepted."

"I wasn't apologizing." Buffy crossed her arms angrily.

"Oh?" Spike wiggled an eyebrow. Sounded like a bloody Apology to me he thought.

"I still meant what I said about you butting in." She frowned.

Spike sighed and looked around. The room wasn't so full of equipment, just a few mattresses on the floor and enough space for training.

"You know what you need pet?" It was a simple statement.

"No, but I'm sure you're going to tell me," she sighed, irritated.

"A bit of the good old rough and tumble."

"Huh?"

"A little struggle, appease the aggressiveness, rush the blood a bit. Good for the soul too."

Spike looked at Buffy's face and then took a step back, looking around pointedly.

"I don't think so."

Buffy turned to leave but Spike blocked her way, moving closer.

"You’re missing a good opportunity here pet. It's not every day I let someone hit me just for the sake of it."

"No thanks." Buffy looked at his face. "I don't like violence."

"What if someone attacks you in the street, you won't fight back?" Spike looked in her eyes, pitching his voice soft and low. What’s happening to me? he thought.

"I can take care of myself."

Buffy turned to leave again, but before she could take another step, Spike was holding her in her place, both arms wrapped around her, her back pressed to his chest, her own arms locked . She held her breath.

"Show me" Spike whispered close to her ear.

"What are you doing?" Buffy came to her senses and started moving trying to free her self.

"Let me go!"

"Come on pet. Show me how you defend yourself," Spike said calmly.

"You're crazy." Buffy was actually frightened. She knew he was just trying to make a point, but his strong arms made her feel so helpless. And she really hated that feeling.

Spike turned her around quickly to face him tightening his grip before she could move. Such a tiny body.

"See luv, that's what I was talking about. What are you going to do now?"

"Get off, you jerk!" Buffy tried to twist her body but it didn't seemed to make any difference.

"Maybe later," Spike grinned and kept holding her tight.

"This is L.A luv, not good old Sunny- D. I could be a rapist or a serial killer. Snappy insults won't cut it."

Buffy stopped moving, looking more upset than angry. Spike noticed her expression change and loosened his grip but before he could let her go completely she’d already made her move. He dropped to his knees in pain, holding his groin.

"Bloody hell!"

Spike closed his eyes and took a deep breath. When he opened them again the room was empty, but despite his agony he couldn't help laughing.

TBC

She wasn't hiding. So what if Hank kept asking her where she’d run off to yesterday? He’d been looking for her for hours, finally finding her that evening sitting next to the door because he hadn't given her a key and she really hadn't wanted to ask him for one.

She didn't want to be here in this stinky city. She knew he couldn’t afford a better location in L.A , but the valley? If ever she’d imagined hell on earth this sure would be its location. Right here, right under her feet, this was her own personal hell- mouth. But she didn't have any demons. No, she’d left them behind in Sunnydale the day she’d said goodbye to her friends. The day she’d let go of her mom and realized that she was gone forever.

Her whole life had been an insignificant struggle for peace, all this time she knew she was fighting a ghost, but it had taken years of pain, disappointment and death to bring her here to face the person who was the reason for all of this. Whatever this was...she wasn't hiding anymore, not from anyone so now she was heading to Hank's office not caring who might be there.

"Where have you been Hank? I thought we had work to do" Spike stood next to hank's chair.

"Sorry Spike, just have a few things to do this morning. And left Buffy at the house and…" he sighed.

"What is it?"

Spike sat in front of Hank as he ran his hands over his temples.

"Met someone today" Hank looked up at him. "I'm worried about the fight."

"Well I'm not." Spike sighed Have other performances to be worried about

He shifted in his chair.

"You okay Spike?" Hank noticed the young man’s discomfort.

"I’m fine. So, who was the man you met?'

"Buffy's ex. He's trouble. Said something about the fight."

"You met Angel?" The two men turned to look at the young woman standing in the doorway, interrupting their conversation.

"Angel?" Spike raised a brow what kind of a girly name is that?

"Yes I did." Hank looked directly at his daughter.

"How is he?" Buffy entered the room completely ignoring Spike.

"Oh… he's fine." Hank stood up. "He's more then fine actually. Making a lot of money. Hasn't change his ways though."

"And what's that supposed to mean Hank?"

Spike looked at the two glaring at each other and knew there was more to this than met the eye.

"Wait…your ex-boyfriend is a boxer?" he got up and looked at her.

"No." Hank intervened his eyes never leaving Buffy.

"He's just a crook who loves making easy money and now he's doing it at our expense."

"You never liked him." Buffy stated.

"And now I know I had good reason not to. This is what he left you for Buffy."

"Well Kudos Hank. I wonder what this says about you," she sneered.

"I just wanted a better life for you."

"You’re right, it was better, without you." Buffy turned to leave but stopped near the door

"At least he came for mom's funeral which is more then I can say about you."

She slammed the door loudly behind her.

Spike was looking for Buffy again He didn't know why he was so drawn to her, just knew he was sick and tired of sitting in the dark, waiting for someone to tell him what the bloody hell was going on.

He always got what he wanted though, and if it was information he needed, he'd get it out of her no matter how many scolding gazes she sent his way. He spotted her sitting on the bench in the back yard and walked towards her. Just thinking about this girl being close to him again made him soften inside., Man, she's got issues… daddy leaving her, boyfriend turning out to be evil And why again was he getting so worked up about this?…

"You know pet…"

He took a few tentative steps and sat beside her. She looked as if she wasn't aware he was there.

"For someone who doesn’t like violence you sure made an impression."

"I do that" she muttered, but quickly realized what she’d said and glanced at him.

"I mean…"

"I know what you mean." He gave her an understanding smile.

"I'm sorry" She looked down her voice a whisper.

"What's that luv? Didn't quite catch that." Spike smirked and moved closer to her.

Buffy frowned. Of course he's going to make it harder on me .

"I'm sorry." She raised her voice enough so that he could hear her.

"Alright then. But just so we’re clear, this is an apology?"

She gave him a cold glare.

"I guess I deserved it, in some way." Spike sighed and paused for a moment.

"So, what's the deal with that Angel fellow?" He gave in to his curiosity and risked a direct question.

"I don't want to talk about it." Buffy shrugged.

Spike look at her closely. Buffy looked sad. So sad that she hadn’t even bothered to send him away. She just shifted in her place and stared blankly into space.

"He sounds like a complete wanker."

That got Buffy's attention, she turned to him.

"You don't even know him." And what a wanker is anyway ?

"Don't need to luv, my Spike senses tells me he's bad news."

"Yeah, well where were your Spike senses were when my knee hit your crotch?"

"Good point, but you see the problem pet, you hit them on their weak spot." He grinned.

Buffy couldn't help smiling at his remark.

"I knew I could get a gleam" Spike looked at her pleased.

Buffy realized what she’d done and turned her head away.

"So, aren't you going to scowl at me for my behaviour?" she said after a few second of silence.

"I think I've learned my lesson. Going to step back with my manhood still intact." Well most of it .

Spike got up as Buffy gave him a puzzled look.

"I'm going to ask Hank what he needs me to do, have workout and stuff..." He’d barely finished what he was about to say as he turn to leave when Buffy spoke.

"Spike"

She said my name he turned back to look at her.

"Can we start over?"

"What do you mean luv?"

She just reached out her hand and he stared at it for a moment, then took it warily.

"Hi I'm Buffy."

He grinned and tightened his grip.

"Nice to meet you Buffy…I'm Spike."

"Heard a lot about you." she smiled.

"That's funny, he said. Haven’t heard a bloody thing about you."

He didn't know why he’d agreed to this but he should have known that this girl was the kind who didn't take no for an answer. And after all, he was the one who’d suggested the rough and tumble idea in the first place.

Buffy was standing in front of him wearing two black gloves, black shorts, black top. Her fists were close together in front on her face, ready for any attack.

"Need to go over the basics luv. It's not all about the punch and blows."

"Right." She dropped her hands what am I doing? her mind screamed at her.

"First you learn how to duck."

"Okay." She took a long breath and shook her head in preparation.

Spike looked at her, she looked so vibrant with her hair bouncing around and fire in her eyes. So cute…did I just use the word "cute"?

"Give it to me." Okay that sounded too sexy, Buffy muttered.

Spike took a few swings above her head, carefully avoiding any contact as she ducked down.

"That didn't hurt," she stated, standing straight, panting slightly.

"Didn't have any intention of hurting you."

"Why not?" she asked, almost offended

"Because your dad would kill me."

"My dad wouldn't hurt you…he needs you too much."

"Maybe luv… But I think he needs you more." Spike looked at her as if he was trying to make her see something that she wasn't willing to confront.

"Hank’s got himself some fan."

"Just telling like I see it."

"Then you're blind."

Spike didn't say more, he looked at Buffy and knew the only thing she needed right now was time, she was still mourning her loss, and he knew well how angry she was.

"So…Are you going to teach me or what?"

"What do you want luv, a quick demo?" He started moving around her, scanning her.

"A blow-for-blow description you can map out and memorize? Doesn't work like that."

Spike faced her, looking at her with a glint in his eyes.

"Fine then, you train me." She gave him a sly smile.

Spike grinned at her frisky attitude. Who would have thought this was the same girl he’d talked to moments ago.

"Spike!" The sound of Hank's voice broke the spell between the two.

Spike turned around to face Hank who was standing a few feet away from the ring, his face harsh . Very obviously upset about something.

"We haven't finished our talk," he said as Spike approached to him.

"Wasn't my fault Hank, said you had to make a call."

"My office, now." Hank sent him a glare and turned around giving Spike no option but to follow.

Hank was pacing fretfully around his office when Spike came in. He tried to stay calm, but instead stood at the middle of the office and started rambling.

"This Angel guy, he runs all kinds of dirty deals in the boxing world. He has connections. He fixes bets by getting the inside info on the fight. Why was my daughter wearing your shorts?"

"She asked me for something comfortable to train in."

"Oh." Hank stared blankly at his desk.

"So what is the inside scoop Hank?" Spike asked expectantly.

"Did she ask to train?" Hank ignored his words and looked at him.

"Yeah." Spike raised an eyebrow looking at Hank's firm face.

"Think I should let her work here." Hank stated and went to his chair.

"W-wait , wait…you what?" Spike closed the distance between them.

"Don't know if you’ve noticed, but she's kinda pissed at me. Think some work in the office would be good for her."

Spike shook his head, not really following Hank’s train of thought.

"What about the fight?" He asked again.

"Oh, don't worry about that, just rumours that Angel guy’s spreading. You just focus on training okay."

"Alright."

Spike sighed as he closed the door behind him. Normally he wouldn’t have let things like this bother him, but Hank was definitely worried about something serious. Usually he wouldn’t have let him see that anything was wrong and that had always worked well for both of them so far. So, what had changed? A voice in the back of his mind told him to drop it, nothing mattered but focussing on training and getting in the best shape without any distractions.

"Hey! ready to teach me some moves?"

Spike looked at the girl standing before him. Buffy's tiny shirt was tight around her body, her skin was glistening from the hot summer day. , Her hair looked like a mop with a thick lock of it covering her face. She ran her hand around her neck and smiled at him.

He sighed.

Chapter 4: Not Alone

Buffy was sitting at her desk in hank's office going over the bills he’d left her. It had been almost a week since he’d asked her to work for him and he’d been really surprised that she’d said yes, but she knew well what she was doing. It was her only chance for independence, she needed money, and she going to get it at all costs.

If that meant working for dear old dad, so be it.

She hadn't decided where she wanted to go yet. She’d even considered moving back to Sunnydale, and was almost wondering why she’d even left the first place - She hadn’t really wanted a reunion with her dad and her friends could have helped her, if only she’d had the courage to ask.

And all she was doing right now was cleaning up his mess. This wasn’t going to bring them closer. She looked at the pile of papers in front of her and released a frustrated sigh.

"Problems pet?"

She looked up and saw Spike gazing at her. He and her dad had been working hard these last few days and it looked like he'd just finished training, His sweat stained clothes clung to his body, Buffy swallowed hard, looking at the outline of his muscles and return her gaze to the desk trying to remember what she was doing

"What do you know about finances?" She asked.

"Not a bloody thing"

Spike smiled at Buffy’s pouting face and sat on her desk beside her.

"Haven't seen you all week luv…I'm guessing Hank is keeping you busy?"

"Look who's talking" Buffy shifted in her chair and faced him, she didn't know why but she felt almost as if he’d been trying to avoid her this week. She’d only seen him briefly and even then he’d been too focused on his training to notice her. At least his abs look interesting…

"I have a good reason…big fight in two weeks, need to be prepared"

"Who are you fighting?" Buffy crossed her arms, her interest piqued.

"This guy…Colin Combs… also known as the Angel of Death"

"That's so lame" Buffy sneered.

"What?"

"The name, I mean, what’s that supposed to do, strike fear in my heart?" Buffy placed her hand in the middle of her chest.

"Oh my god, I’m so scared," She said in a high-pitched voice.

"It's not a joke luv, the man almost killed his last rival"

"What did he do to him?" Buffy turned serious.

"Nearly turned him into a bloody vegetable, that's what he did"

Spike got up from his chair and stood in front of her desk, he saw Buffy's face frozen and realized his words had affected her more then he’d planned. Stupid git.

"Professional hazard, ini't luv?" He said trying to lighten the situation a bit.

"N-not the words I had in mind" She said slowly.

Spike leaned on her desk with both hands and looked closely into her face.

"Afraid something will happen to me pet?" He teased.

"Get a grip" She mumbled and turned away.

Spike smirked as he saw her face turning red, paused for a moment then moved away.

"You know luv… I still owe you a lesson."

"Huh?" Buffy looked at him trying to figure what he was talking about.

"You, me …Training… Hello?"

Spike looked at her puzzled face waiting for a response

"I though you said you don't have time for training and stuff."

"Have time right now," He smiled. To see you in those shorts again, He added mentally.

"Besides Hank went down town. Won't be back until 6…so what do you say?"

"O-okay...I guess." Buffy looked around her, sighed then got up from her chair, leaving the papers as they were.

"Harder luv" Spike held the punching bag.

Buffy was trying her best to throw hard punches at it but no matter how hard she tried she couldn’t seem to satisfy the athletic blond standing calmly in front of her.

"Come on pet, you’re not even trying!"

"I'm-punch-doing- punch-my-punch-best" She panted and looked at him.

"Your best isn't so good luv, May as well be me standing here instead of this punching bag."

"Are you offering?" She glared at him.

"To be touched by your little fists" He smirked. Think I can find better use for these lovely hands …no, no, no what am I thinking, Hank's kid, remember you git.

"You okay?" Buffy asked looking at his blank face.

"One more luv." Spike said taking a grip on the bag. "And this time at least make me lose my balance." He grinned.

Buffy really wanted to wash that smirk off his face. He'd been teasing her since they’d started this and she really didn't like it when people assumed she was weak or frail, just because she was petite.

She took her position and prepared herself to swing her fist with as much force as was needed to make an impression.

And she did.

"Bloody hell." Spike held his nose, bending forward with a groan.

"Oh my god! Spike… Are you okay?" She knelt before him, her eyes wide.

"I'm so, so sorry."

"It's alright" Spike raised his head to look at her.

"Spike, you're bleeding"

"Damn" Spike noticed the blood dripping through his fingers..

"I have a sensitive nose." He replied, his voice muffled.

Standing up from the floor Buffy started to giggle.

"Don't you think you should have chosen another profession?"

"Just a blood vessel, I'm used to it"

"Really didn't imagine you being so delicate" She said unable to contain a smile.

"I'm glad my pain amuses you" Spike said, irritated.

"Among other things" Her smile faded a little when she realized that she really had hurt him.

"Yeah…like what?"

"Umm I don't know...the way you talk maybe."

"What's wrong with the way I talk?"

"I overheard you say to Hank you saw two birds shagging on the telly. Were you watching the discovery channel?" She teased.

Spike was actually turning red. He dropped his hands and looked at her.

"Let's called it a day luv, need to get this cleaned up. What do you say?"

"Okay… I think I'll go grab something to eat." Suddenly Buffy felt a bit embarrassed. She turned as if she was looking for something.

"There's a diner down the street if you want to eat out." Spike wanted to say more but something stopped him.

"Great…" Buffy mumbled then hesitated for a moment.

"You want to come with?" She asked quickly.

"Sure… I'm feeling a bit peckish myself."

She smiled at that.

Spike frowned.

"What?"

The diner was almost empty and they had nothing to do but sit and gaze at each other while they waited for the waitress to bring them their lunch.

"So…what’s your real name?" Buffy said breaking the ice.

"Why do you think Spike isn't my real name?"

"Well… It might be…I already know you don't have any parents and no parent in their right mind would give that name to a child… unless they really hated him," she added smugly.

"Yeah… ‘cause Buffy is such an intelligent name?" Spike raised an eyebrow.

"My mom gave me that name." Buffy glared at him, face frowning.

"Oh…sorry pet...I didn't mean-" He said almost choking on his words.

"God! You’re so easy…" Buffy said grinning and looking at Spike’s contrite expression.

"Y, you little minx."

"Careful! " Buffy pointed her finger at him playfully. "You might hurt my feelings."

Spike couldn't help smiling at the look in her eye., She really loved giving him a hard time, and for some reason he really didn't mind.

"William." He said in reply to her earlier question.

Buffy gave him an attentive look, her smile still lingering on her face.

"That’s what people called me until I was sixteen," He explained looking at her puzzled face.

"What happened then?"

"Then I changed it pet" Spike shrugged. Not going to tell you my bloody life story.

"Come on, I'm sure there's a juicy past there and it's only fair since you seem to know everything about me"

"Not everything," Spike said softly tilting his head to look at her.

"I mean basic stuff," Buffy mumbled looking down to avoid his piercing gaze.

Why does he do that?

"Okay! Going to ask you twenty questions." Buffy tried to lighten the mood.

"Where's the bloody waitress?" Spike muttered and looked around. The direction this conversation was heading was starting to worry him.

"Fine! Just five then…" She reassured him.

This girl is going to be the death of me Spike glanced at Buffy for a moment.

"Alright pet" He sighed.

Buffy grinned and putted her hands together ready to fire.

"When did you come here?"

"Three years ago"

"Alone?"

Bloody hell "No, I had a girlfriend, I followed her here."

"Where is she?"

"I don't have a fucking clue."

Was she pretty? "Don't you care?"

"No…you have just one more question pet."

"Are you glad you came here with her?" *g* buff, Obvious much?

"Yes and no."

"You need to give me more then that." Buffy smiled and leaned on the table.

"Why’s that luv?"

"Cause I said so."

"Right…" Spike gazed at her lips which were just inches away from his.

He sat back and looked at Buffy. She was still waiting. He sighed.

"The short version. Yes, because I met your dad and no, because she cheated on me."

"Oh."

"Why am I telling you this?" Spike groused.

"Maybe because I asked" Buffy gave him another tiny smile.

The waitress came and put their plates and drinks on the table. They ignored her and just kept looking at each other as if she wasn't even there.

"One more question. Please?"

"What pet?"

"Do you like what you do?"

"Hit people and get away with it? Every working class man’s dream"

"The real reason"

Spike hesitated for a moment.

"Have nothing to lose pet, No family, no friends, no ties to this world…nothing really holding me back, so why not?"

"Well, that's depressing." Buffy took a sip from her drink.

"No, it's realistic and you know it too...the feeling you get when you lose someone you love, the knowledge that you have no one to rely on but yourself."

Spike gazed at her attentively.

"You know what I'm talking about, don't you luv?"

Buffy was taken aback by his words, not sure exactly what to say.

"Yeah…" She sighed, nodding her head slightly. "I mean yes I do." She said looking at him firmly.

Spike smiled in understanding.

"Knew you would"

Buffy sat on her bed and thought about her earlier conversation with Spike. They’d left the restaurant silently and he’d walked her to home. She hadn't had anything important to say and for some reason he didn't speak either, and it had seemed perfectly normal. After they'd said goodbye there was an awkward pause, a brief moment when neither of them had know what to say or do next, then they'd quickly gone their separate ways without looking back.

Now her mind was working overtime. Filled with more questions she wanted to ask him. Questions she needed to ask herself. She lay down on the bed, fully clothed, one arm across her eyes. Sometimes it felt as if she had a great weight on her chest and she could hardly breathe because of it. These last few months had been exhausting. First finding out about her mom’s disease, then dropping out of college to take care of her. That had cut her off from her friends. Riley leaving her, and then, her mom's death It had felt at the time that the entire burden had fallen onto her shoulders and she had no one in the world to share it with. But maybe she’d wanted it that way? Her friends had been there to comfort her. Her dad had called her almost every hour, and on the night of the funeral she hadn’t been completely alone. She hesitated for a moment holding that thought, then she picked up the phone and dialed.

"Hello?" a low voice sounded on the other end. It seemed to disappear with the background noises.

"Angel?" Buffy could barely hear him.

"Buffy...is that you?"

"I'm in L.A" She raised her voice.

"I know… talked to your dad the other day."

"Right" She remembered.

"Never thought you would go through with it, Buff"

"I need to talk to you."

"Of course...maybe I could call you later and-"

"No, we need to meet , I'll see you at the diner near your old place tomorrow."

"Okay-"

"Bye Angel." Before he could say anther word Buffy put down the phone.

Just don't let me down again she sighed.

tbc

Chapter 5 : Just Friends

The diner was nothing like Buffy remembered, but then they’d only been there together once and that now seemed like a life time ago. Angel had been very interested in the apartment for rent across the street and had told her it looked like a nice place to live. Three months later, after their visit to L.A, he’d moved in there. He’d never told her how it got burned down, but from what she knew about his recent activities it wouldn't surprise her if it was an insurance scam.

God we use to know everything about each other…or at least I thought so. Buffy walked into the dark, smoky diner wondering if it had new owners. Just as she was about to walk into the back room Angel appeared in front of her, holding the door. He faced her as he closed it behind him slowly.

"Hi Buff."

There was a glint in his eyes, like he knew something the rest of the world didn’t.

"Angel" Buffy said simply, her face set.

He pointed to the table next to them and they sat in front of each other. Two months since the funeral, but Buffy felt like the man she was seeing wasn't the same, The way he was dressed, his cocky smile and even his cologne made her feel he was a complete stranger.

"How have you been Buffy?"

"Angel this isn't a social call" She said.

"It's not?" He raised a brow.

"Look I appreciate your support… what you did for me after mom died, that meant a lot, but you chose your path and I chose mine."

"Okay Buffy…what this is about?" Suddenly he looked impatient.

"I want to know what you talked about, with my dad…about Spike," Buffy muttered afraid of what she might hear.

"Why won't you ask him?"

"I want to hear it from you."

Angel sighed and sat back in his chair, putting his hands behind his head.

"Had a little misunderstanding your dad and I…he heard me talking to some guy and misinterpreted, that’s all."

"Is it true you been spreading rumors about Spike?"

"Rumors…Buffy please" He mocked.

"Your getting paid for this aren’t you? If Spike loses you benefit"

"Buffy I'm just doing my job"

"Some job you got Angel" she said incredulously.

"Never lied to you and I'm not now, I have sources"

"Who's your source?"

"I can't say"

"Fine…then what is it Angel? Just tell me what this so-called source told you."

Angel sighed and looked away, his expression one of annoyance at her request.

"At least tell me that," Buffy said, calmly.

"He has a condition-"

"Condition?"

"Medical condition…it’s his heart, he's not fit for boxing, Buffy. It could kill him."

Buffy gave Angel a pensive look, her mind was racing , she couldn't believe what she'd heard. Trying to push his words aside she got up quickly from her chair, infuriated.

"You know Angel… I never thought you’d stoop this low."

"Well Buff …sorry to disappoint you….again" He shrugged.

"I really thought you would come to your senses...not for me no…for your self

For the man I thought knew."

"Maybe you didn't know that man as well as you thought…again, I'm sorry."

"Good bye Angel" She turned to leave without looking back.

"Take care Buffy" Angel said quietly looking at her disappearing through the smoke and crowd of people coming their way.

"Oh daddy… Who was that ball of sunshine?"

Angel turned around to the voice that came from behind him.

"What are you doing here Dru? Thought I told you to wait out back"

The dark-haired woman sat next to him and petted his head playfully.

"Was it Betty?...Naughty Angel, You should know not to break little girls heart."

"It's Buffy, Dru"

"Sweet like a lolli- pop, but you know what happens to you after you eat them don't you…All you’re left with is a shiny piece of wrapping paper"

Dru stroked her hand down Angel's thigh and started to caress him eagerly.

"But you like your hard candy don't you daddy?" She whispered, her breath hot against his ear.

"You're crazy Dru" He answered huskily, watching the brunette's amused face.

"Yes, yes I am" She laughed and gave him a wicked grin.

"Now…" He moved her hand away from him.

"Stop fooling around and tell me more about your precious William."

Buffy entered the training room and saw Hank observing Spike fighting in the ring. Buffy stood beside him and did the same, Spike looked just fine. Really fine, in fact. She let her gaze run over his semi naked body. He was so muscular you really could bounce a coin off those abs or better yet…

"Buffy!" Hank waved a hand in front of her face.

Buffy blinked and looked at her dad.

"Hi pumpkin, where have you been?"

"Oh hi! Hey! Me? I was shopping" She mumbled.

"What did you buy?" Hank looked at her empty hands and raised a brow.

"Window shopping" She corrected herself.

Hank nodded at that.

"Bloody hell!"

The two heard Spike shouting and turned around to find him lying on the floor.

Quickly they got inside the ring.

Gunn helped his friend up.

"I'm fine" Spike muttered as he took his hand.

"What happened?" Hank asked looking at Spike, who was limping.

"Just twisted my ankle, think there was something on the floor."

"Or you just lost your concentration." Gunn gazed at Buffy, who gave him a puzzled look.

"Take a break Spike" Hank mumbled and turned for his office.

The three were left alone in an awkward silence, Buffy stared at Spike, looking down and trying to stand primly. Gunn sending sideways glances at them.

Spike raised his head and broke the silence.

"Buffy this is Gunn, Gunn- Buffy" He mumbled wearily.

"Hi." The two exchanged brief looks.

"Spike… Can I talk to you?" Buffy felt a chill run down her spine. What am I doing!? What I'm going to tell him?

"Sure pet," He replied.

"Alone?" Buffy looked at Gunn who was still looking at the two in a strange manner. what's up with that guy? She wondered.

"I need to go anyway…see you at Wally's later?" He said to his friend.

"Sure thing Charlie."

Spike waved him off and returned his gaze to Buffy who looked rather nervous. What's with the lip- quiver…not that I mind…so adorable.

"What's up luv?"

"I don't think you should fight Combs" straight to the point huh Buff

"Oh" Spike froze for a moment then narrowed his eyes.

"Why not?"

"I-I think he's dangerous and-"

"You talked to your ex?"

"Yeah" Buffy sighed at Spike expression. He was clenching his teeth, his blue eyes darkened and he wasn't even blinking. Oh that's not a good face she thought.

"What did the ponce say?"

What could she tell him? That Angel had told her he was risking his life every time he went into the ring? Was it honestly any of her business?

"That Combs is crazy, he uses what ever means necessary, he could kill you."

She could say that.

"I don't think he said that." Spike turned from her and started to take off his gloves.

"Why not?!" what are you hiding?

"Because pet, your Angel's job isn't to worry about my well being… on the contrary"

"He's a friend of mine, I don't think he's lying."

"Just a friend?" Spike raised an eyebrow.

"Why? What do you care?"

"I don't" He threw his gloves aside.

"Good" Buffy muttered.

"And you shouldn't care about me fighting Combs"

"Fine! I won't!" She frowned.

"Good" he said firmly and stooped to get out of the ring.

"Glad we had this conversation pet"

"Jerk…" Buffy mumbled and walked past him quickly.

Spike was left at the side of the ring. leaning on the rail, a peevish look on his face.

He watched her retreating back.

What's her problem?

When she went to her father's office later that day, all full of flames and accusations the last thing she expected was for him to bring her a letter from Willow and her friends.

Seems like they haven’t forgotten about you after all hun. Buffy took the letter remembering her earlier statement about cutting herself off from everyone. She'd said that in a moment of frustration and knew that she wasn’t going to be able to live with her dad without giving stuff away, and he was her dad whether she liked it or not, with all the confusion that went with that, One minute all she could remember was the lying bastard who’d left her and her mom and the next she don't know what to think, She couldn’t help remembering the good stuff - the man who’d taken her ice skating and who’d brought home pine trees for Christmas. She’d hated the smell of pine trees since he’d gone because they’d reminded her of him. Christmas was just one of the things he’d spoiled in her life.

Now she was sitting at her desk, looking at her dad's trophies lined neatly on the shelf on the wall.

"Hank did a great job," Spike said standing beside her. She hadn't heard him coming in because she was too caught up in her thoughts.

"Hasn't he just?" she muttered looking at the shelf and realising that her childhood had been replaced by a collection of shiny objects.

"It helped him recover, do something good for a change."

Somehow it didn't surprise her that he understood what she meant.

"Good? For himself, maybe. That's hardly a change! That's Hank being selfish. No thought about someone getting hurt!"

And he's doing it again.

"Bad stuff happens Buffy" Spike said calmly. "You can't blame daddy forever for all the nasties in this world."

"You’re just like him," She muttered shaking her head.

"If that's suppose to be an insult, I don't get it."

"No ties to this world" She repeated his own words. "I can believe you’d abandon your family for a shelf full of shiny trophies, given the chance."

"I don't know about that pet." He gave her a harsh look. "Never had one, remember?"

Buffy turned herself away. "Forget it" She muttered.

"No…" He stood in front of her "Tell me what you mean," He demanded.

She got up from the desk and started pacing, giving him sidelong glances.

"Tell you what? That you’re an idiot who’s going to get himself killed for a trophy?"

Spike didn't know where that had come from, but before he could say a word Buffy was reaching for the cups on the shelf.

"Here," she said pushing them off, one by one. "There are plenty here, pick one!" She panted as she tried to reach the ones the high shelf.

"Buff-"

"Take it" She grabbed one and threw it at him. It hit the floor with a dull clatter.

"What are you doing?" Spike said, stunned.

"This is what you want right?! So here take them all"

And with that she ran her hand along the shelf, knocking the remainder to the floor.

Spike looked at her completely shocked, but obviously not as much as she was. Buffy turned to him, her face frozen. He could see tears forming in her eyes as she processed what she'd done.

"Buffy-" He approached her, but she took a step back, shivering.

She dropped her gazed and headed quickly towards the door, but Spike wasn't about to let her go. He stopped her and swung her around to face him.

"Wait!" He searched her face not knowing quite what to say, but noticing the single tear that lingered on her cheek. It made him loosen his grip.

As soon as he did that Buffy ran off, leaving him frozen behind her. Spike felt completely numb, like the empty room he was in. Suddenly, nothing felt real any more.

Nothing,

Except the horrible weight crushing his heart.

tbc

Chapter 6: Tough Love

"If love be rough with you, be rough with love"

Romeo and Juliet

Willy's place was packed and loud. Spike sat by the bar and drank his beer. Quietly, Gunn stood there observing his friend who hadn't moved from his chair all evening. He’d been acting like that since yesterday when he’d got back from training. The weekend was usually something his friend looked forward to. His time off from the pressure of training, but now nothing seemed to interest him.

"Lots of honeys in the house…" Gunn looked around sending Spike a sidelong glace. "And I think that little redhead in the corner is checking you out Spikey." He pointed to her direction with his head.

Spike didn't even bother with a glance and just took anther sip from his drink.

"Okay!...what’s up with you tonight man?" Gunn snapped sitting beside him.

Spike gave him a weary gaze.

"I'm knackered Charlie, had a long week." He shrugged, his voice low, his eyes glittering in the dim light.

"I’ve never seen you like this, Spike. Usually I'm the first to spill his toys and candy all over the floor."

"One step ahead of you mate." Spike raised his glass and took a deep draught.

"Okay, that's it!" Gunn took the glass from him.

"Hey!" Spike protested, and for the first time that evening looked directly at his friend.

"You know Hank doesn't like it when you drink."

"Yeah…he doesn't like it when I smoke either." Spike stood up looking for his lighter in his pockets. "He's not my bloody father you know," he mumbled putting a cigarette in his mouth.

Gunn looked at his friend who was clearly unaware of his strange behavior.

"How the hell did you get drunk so fast?" He asked realizing the severity of his friend’s insobriety.

"Years of practice Charlie boy." Spike kept looking for his lighter in his back pockets. His shoulders loosened and as he tried to steady his balance he almost stumbled onto the chair behind him.

"Yeah well, years of practice will go down the drain if you keep that up"

Spike sighed and pulled the cigarette from his mouth. "Bugger!, I lost my lighter."

"Good." Gunn got up from his chair. "Now let's go get some coffee in you."

Just as Spike turned to pay the bill a familiar voice came from behind him.

"Oh look what the night’s brought me. My William."

Spike turned around quickly, hardly believing his eyes.

"Dru?"

"Yes dear boy…your princess is back" She approached him.

"W-what are you doing here?" Spike tried to steady his voice.

"Looking for new pleasures my Spike… you know me." Her eyes glittered as she spoke.

"Yes I do… and I'm not 'your Spike' any more."

"Oh…are you still cross with me, sweet Willy?"

Gunn chuckled lightly at the sound of his friend been called 'Willy.'

The two glared at him.

"Sorry" He mumbled taking his seat and turning his gaze to the other direction.

"So you’re back in town…didn't think I'd see you in a place like this, pet. Didn't go well with the ugly, rich fellow you've been seeing, then?" Spike raised a brow.

"He was too slimy for my taste" Dru came closer to him, watching his hard expression.

And his body stiffened as she invaded his personal space.

"What do you want Dru?"

"How about a drink William…for old times sake?"

"I don't know if they serve cyanide here."

"Oh wicked Spike!" She took a step back playing offended. "Shame on you, have you already forgotten all the things mommy did for you?"

"You mean lying to me, betraying me, taking my money and leaving? Nope haven't forgotten about that."

"So ungrateful you are, my William, but you know I'm right, deep down you know."

Quickly she was in front of him, again observing him closely, trying to catch his eye.

"You know you belong with me, I'm the only proper family you ever had."

"Not my family Dru, just my past. You know nothing about me anymore."

With that she gave him a spiteful grin.

"I know all of your secrets my dark prince," she whispered close to his ear,

gazing at his frozen face.

"Goodbye Dru," he said in a low voice, his face still void of emotion.

Dru smiled and turned around to leave, but not before giving him a lascivious glare. Spike knew this glare all too well, he even used to like it, but this time he knew that it meant trouble. Crazy bint… you sure do know how to pick them mate, he scolded himself.

Gunn watched the whole scene, noticing his friend’s agonized face.

"What is it?" He stood beside him.

"Just feeling a little sick" Spike pressed his fingers to his temples.

"Oh yeah?" Gunn scanned the place Dru had been standing moments ago.

"Think you’re ready for sobering up right about now 'big bad.'" He handed Spike his jacket. Putting a hand on his friend's shoulder he guided him to the exit.

"With any luck you’ll forget you ever met that nutty Dru and avoid a hangover at the same time," He said.

"I don't think that's possible," Spike mumbled gazing down and taking one more fatigued step.

"No…probably not."

Gunn smirked behind him, as they walked out of the pub.

It was Saturday afternoon and Spike was sitting on the couch in his living room. He really thought he would sleep the day away after last night, but instead he was staring at the television. After flipping between channels a few times he turned it off. Stupid reality shows he murmured. He didn't felt like doing anything and staring at the blank screen seemed like a good alternative to whatever he was going to do next.

Sure he was restless and usually if something was bothering him he would go and punch something, or even worse, someone, but this time, everything felt different. He didn't crave a fight. He didn't feel angry or frustrated at all. He was just confused, because he knew it wasn't his peace of mind at stake, it was someone else's. He didn't know which bothered him more, the fact that someone else was hurting or that he cared so damn much about it. And why, for the first time in his twisted life should he bother caring for someone other then himself?

Bollocks! He thought and got up from his comfy couch.

He was going to solve this problem the old Spike way

Over in Hanks office Buffy was sitting behind her desk staring at the dim light that filtered through the dirty windows. A ray of light fell on her face and she let it blind her as she stared directly at it in the hope that everything would look clearer, but it wasn't.

She'd been doing a lot of stupid things since she arrived in L.A and seeing her dad again had certainty obscured her judgment. She was torn, she wanted to do the right thing, but how could she when she was no longer in control of her emotions.

Oh god, what did I do?

The door made a creaking sound as it opened. Buffy raised her head and saw Spike standing in the doorway, She swallowed hard and looked down to her desk, unable to meet his gaze.

Spike got closer to the front of her desk, all the while watching her, with a penetrating stare.

"What are you doing here?" She asked after a moment of unbearable silence.

"Took a stroll, found myself in your neck of the woods."

"Couldn't you have found a better place to be on a Saturday afternoon?" She still wasn't looking at him, just playing with some papers on her desk, trying to look busy.

"Could say the same about you."

"I had something important to do."

"Yeah…like what?"

Buffy stopped what she was doing, gazing blankly at a spot at the end of her desk.

What the hell, Buffy, tell him, tell him! Her mind was screaming.

She looked up at him and said without a trace of fear.

"I made a few calls to stop your fight with Combs."

"You did what?" Spike said, not believing his ears.

"You heard me."

"You can't do that…and by can't I mean that you didn't…surely no one took you seriously?" Still shocked he stared at her.

"No sponsors Spike, you know what that means." Her face was frozen as she acted as if it was a business decision and nothing more.

Now he was glaring at her, eyes flaming.

What the bloody hell has possessed you to do such a stupid thing?

Before he could say a word, Buffy got up from her chair, grabbing a few papers and walking to Hank's drawers, to file them.

Spike looked at her for a moment, still trying to figure how to react. He moved closer to her, watching her organizing Hank's files.

"Do you really hate him that much?" he asked trying to control his temper.

"You don't know what you're talking about." Buffy put the files in place with shaking hands, trying not to expose her nervousness.

"I know you've been giving him the cold shoulder since you got here-"

"I barely see him!" Buffy raised her voice.

"So what…? Now you're jealous that I'm spending more time with your daddy?"

Buffy closed the drawer loudly.

"You know nothing about my relationship with my father!"

"I know more then you think" Spike narrowed his eyes at her.

"Yeah well, he's not the man he appears to be… and neither are you for that matter."

The last part of her sentence came out as a murmur, Buffy gazed away.

"What’s that supposed to mean?" Spike asked utterly confused.

Buffy turned to him with a sharp look, her face flushed.

"It means that you're a pawn Spike, you’re nothing but a stupid pawn in Hank's game!"

"You know what luv?" Spike’s voice hardened with each word. Now he was officially pissed off. "I’d rather be a pawn than a vindictive, disgruntled brat who thinks of no one but herself!"

Buffy didn't think twice and slapped him, hard.

Clenching his teeth Spike gave her a threatening stare.

"Get out" She said coldly, looking at his dark blue eyes.

"Fine" Spike muttered bitterly and turned to leave.

Gazing down, Buffy heard Spike’s quick footsteps as he walked to the door. She heard it open, but then it closed loudly. She gazed up and saw Spike walking towards her. Quickly he was in front of her. Grasping her body He pressed her to the wall causing her to gasp in surprise.

"Spike-" She managed to say.

"Shut up." He muttered, before crashing his lips to hers.

Moaning into his mouth, Buffy slid her arms around him, not sure whether to caress him or push him away.

But even if she’d wanted to, she couldn't push him away. Spike's strong body was pressed to hers, and both his hands were around her waist holding her in place, trapping her against the wall.

Panting hard Spike broke the kiss giving Buffy the opportunity to shove him to the desk behind him.

He thought she was going to run away, but instead she pushed him hard, making him fall back onto Hank’s desk.

"Like it rough luv?" He smirked.

"Shut up." She repeated his words, in a low tone, resuming the kiss.

Before she noticed, Spike spun her around to the desk causing a few items to fall on the floor. Still kissing her fervently he let her lean back onto the desk and started to push the items away. With one hand behind her back and the other holding Spike by his T- shirt, Buffy helped him to clear the desk quickly and pulled him back over her body.

Buffy felt the warmest feeling. Her whole body lighting up to Spike's touch, Feeling his hands exploring her form made her ache with need and his warm lips tracing little kisses on her neck sent shivers down her spine. That feeling was something she hadn't experienced for a very long time. She couldn't tell what it was, she just knew it excited her and scared her the time.

Spike moved his hand to her breasts and started opening the top buttons of her blouse.

Hearing her moan his name he glanced at her, eyes full of awe.

Trying to find a more comfortable position on the desk, Buffy wriggled her leg beneath Spike's body. Coming in contact with her thigh she heard him groan.

"Oh, I'm sorry, did I hurt you?" She said, concerned.

Taking a moment, Spike gazed at her face, wondering about the truth of her words.

"You much stronger then you think luv" He said intently.

Buffy's face set.

"Am I?" She murmured.

Still surrounded by her warm body, Spike rested his forehead on the crock of her neck. "Yes you are" He inhaled her scent deeply, paused for a moment and looked at her again.

Buffy gazed at him with eyes full of questions but instead of answering Spike just leaned and brushed his lips to hers As he was trying to deepen the kiss, suddenly a voice could be heard behind the door.

"Honey?"

Buffy and Spike froze, staring at each other.

Oh my God.

They got up quickly from the table, starting to put everything in place the way it was, not having enough time before the door opened and Hank stood in front of them with a puzzled look.

"What the hell happened here?" He glared at the two standing in the middle of his messy office.

Leaning to the floor, panting lightly and still holding a bunch of papers Buffy looked up at him.

"Spike and I ….We just…" She gave Spike a desperate look.

"Hank…umm" Spike began to mumble "The thing of it is, we were-"

"I know what this is about" Hank cut through his rambling.

"You do?" Spike raised a brow.

Hank turned to Buffy firmly.

"Got a call from Jim, think we need to talk Buffy."

Buffy gulped and stared at him.

"Dad…"

Hank shivered at the sound of his daughter calling him dad for the first time in years.

Spike gazed at the two "Maybe I should leave you to it…"

When he didn't get any response he started walking past Hank.

"No, stay." Hank stopped him and sent Buffy a sideways glance. "As a matter of fact we all could use a long talk, let's go out somewhere" He turned to the door and then paused.

"Just clean up a little and I'll meet you at the car," he said still lingering near the doorway.

Buffy looked at Spike, he had a peculiar look on his face, she wasn't sure what it was, but it looked entirely different from any look she’d seen before. She didn't give it more thought and finished putting the rest of the items on the desk.

"Oh and honey-" Hank put his hand on the doorknob right before leaving.

"Yes" She complied obediently.

"Button you blouse dear…its cold."

With a smirk forming on his face Hank shut the door, leaving Buffy and Spike stricken and completely speechless.

tbc

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