Chapter 16:

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It had been two days since that night when Spike had broken her heart. He wished he could talk to her and try and explain. He tried calling her, but she unplugged her phone from the wall since he kept getting a busy signal. He even tried knocking at her door, but she wouldn't answer. He decided it was best to give her time alone, and so he had backed off and gave her the space she needed.

But Buffy didn't need space. She needed him. She couldn't sleep for the past two days, or even eat. She felt weak, like she couldn't move. She tried to drown her surrows in a bottle of vodka last night, but only ended up smashing it against the wall in a fury of anger. Now she sat on her floor in the corner of the room, staring blankly at her surroundings.

Buffy felt dizzy and sick. Sitting there, sprawled in a small position, staring at the wall. She brang her knees in to her more. She shut her eyes tightly feeling a sharp pain in her head suddenly. But when she closed her eyes all she saw was Spike's face smiling at her. She didn't want to open her eyes, she wanted to keep seeing his face in her head. Slowly, his features disappeared from her memory and she cried out.

"No! No, Spike. Don't leave, I need you." Buffy sobbed, burrying her face in her hands. "Please don't leave me." She whispered as she tried desperately to cry.

She needed to cry, needed to feel something. Needed to feel the stinging tears sliding down her face she got accustomed to over the long hours of the two days. Some sign that told her she was alive. That she could feel anything else but pain. But thats all she felt.

Ever so slowly, her mind and body shut down and she drifted off into unconsciousness.

And thats how Cordelia and Anya found her a few hours later. Buffy had forgotten completely about work and the last shoot today. Cordelia and Anya walked into her apartment after getting a key to it, and walked into her bedroom to find her head leaning against the wall, and her hands and legs curled up around her. She was completely out of it.

" Buffy! Oh my God! Buffy!" Cordelia shouted as both of the ladies ran to her. Anya and Cordelia took in her appearence and grimaced.

She looked horrible. A complete wreck. There were tired circles around her eyes, and were red, indicating she hadn't gotten any sleep in a while. Her yoga pants and singlet top were all ruffled and creased, and her hair was a mess.

Both girls glanced at each other panicked, then began to shake Buffy gently.

" Buffy! Wake up!" Anya almost screamed, her voice trembling from the scare she gave her.

Buffys head moved slightly, and as she half opened her eyes she blinked a few times.

"Spike?" Buffy whispered as the girls shared another glance at each other and shook their heads.

"No, honey. Its Cordelia and Anya. Xander sent us to get you since you didn't show up for the shoot." Anya said.

Buffys eyes opened tiredly. Her features frowning. She shook her head slowly back and forth.

" No. I-I....can't." Buffy tired to project her voice as loud as she coul, but it came out in a whisper.

" Buffy what happened to you? You look awful." Cordelia asked. Buffy glanced down at her clothes.

" I can't Cordy. Please.... just leave. I need to be alone." Bufy said faintly.

" The hell you do! Listen missy, we don't know what happened but you better have a darn good explanation for this! Now, come on! Were going to get you ready for work!" Anya said as her and Cordy grabbed her limp arms and lifted her up.

" No." Buffy protested, but was too weak.

" Have you eaten anything at all today? You look so thin!" Cordy yelled as they dragged her into the bathroom.

" Now, you take a shower and we'll lay out your clothes and have a nice breakfast set up for you when you get out. " Anya said as they turned on the water to the shower, and headed out of the room.

Buffy sighed and realised they were right. She needed to get better and stop mopping around, causing harm to herself. 'Perhaps a shower might help....' Buffy thought as she shedded her clothes and stood under the warm spray.

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An hour later, Anya and Cordelia had fed Buffy, got her dressed and were now arriving at the shoot for the day. The scenery was a cemetary, and Buffy didn't even bother to ask why they were there. She was far too tired.

" We're here. Come on Buffy." Cordy said as she dragged her out of the limo. Buffy gazed around at the cemetary.

It was very large, and ther were lush green willow trees surrounding the area. There was a gust of wind that blew, and her golden locks swayed in the wind as she saw a dark figure walking along in the distance. She took in a sharp breath of air as she continued to watch him.

Spike.

It had seemed like forever until she last saw him, and wasn't sure she was ready to face him yet. Or ever again. She saw him turn around and look at her, stopping in his tracks. He came running over and when he was only a mere feet away, Buffy found out her legs could work.

'Need to get out of here. Need to get away from him.' She thought.

"Buffy! Pet, I've been trying to-" She could hear Spike yelling as he was only a few feet away now. She ran past him, causing him to turn and look at her retreating form. "What the bloody...."

Anya came up and put a hand on his shoulder, causing him to turn to her swiftly.

" Don't mind her, Spike.Cordy and I found her in her apartment. Passed out on the floor, a complete wreck!" Anya said, shaking her head. Spike turned his head, watching her as she slowed her pace.

" I-Is she....okay?" Spike asked, hoping he sounded cool and calm about it when he tried to mask his concern. His stomache was doing flips and it felt like he was going to break down once he saw her get out of the limo.

He saw her silky hair wave in the wind and his breath hitched in his throat. His mind completely forgot about everything he did momentarily to her. And all he was thinking was ' I have to see her. I have to see if shes okay. Have to talk to her....hear her voice. Going crazy not hearing her voice.' Spike thought. But then she ran away as fast as she could and reality came washing over him, and smacking him hard on the head.

" I don't know. Looked like she hasn't been eating or sleeping. Poor thing. What could of happened to do that to her?" Anya asked, snapping him out of his thoughts. He frowned.

'Me.' He held back his answer, slowly shrugging and walking off.

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All throughout the shoot Buffy hadn't given one smile, she didn't even look at him. Not one glance. Even when they were shooting, kissing and touching, she felt distant. Like a part of her wasn't there, and as if she didn't want to be there. Didn't want to be with him.

Spike groaned and rolled his eyes at his own stupidity. 'Cor she doesn't want to be with you, mate. You soddin broke her heart. Told her off. If I was her I would do the exact bloody thing to me.' Spike thought and suddenly fealt his chest tightening.

As soon as Xander had called it quits for the day, Buffy jumped off of Spike and was about to turn away when he spoke up.

"Nice work, luv." Spike tried and suppressed a smile. She stared at him blankly She just shrugged lightly.

"Guess so." Buffy stated. 'Need to get away from him.' She tried to turn away again, but he grabbed her hand and forced her to turn to him.

" I think we need to talk." Spike said softly.

"Then don't think."Was her snide comment. He tightened his grip on her arm, pained by her words.

" Buffy! Would you stop being like this." Spike said.

" Let go of my arm." Buffy replied in a hurt whisper, looking into his eyes. Realisation seemed to flash in his mind as he looked down to his hand, still holding her arm tightly. He grew an apologetic look and dropped her hand immediately.

"Sorry." He stated shamefully, looking at her face. "Did I hurt you?"

" Yes." Buffy replied as he looked down again and went to take her hand warmly, but she pulled her hand back. "I wasn't talking about my arm."

Spike looked at her and felt a strong pang in his chest again. He shut his eyes tightly, hearing her words. His jaw muscles clenched and unclenched.

'Don't say anything. Don't look at her. She should be mad at you. She should make you feel this way. After what I did.' He kept reminding himself. His eyes fluttered open and noticed the empty spot that was before his eyes. She left.

"Alright everybody! Go home, get ready! The party is in two hours! We'll all meet back at the building, and take the hall down." Xander instructed as everyone nodded and started to disappear.

Spike looked around frantically, trying to spot Buffy, but couldn't see her. With one long heavy sigh, he gave up and headed off. Digging into his dusters for his cigarrettes.

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Two hours approached rapidly and now everyone was gathered in the lobby socializing and chit chatting about the shoot and its success. Everyone was there, except one person.

Buffy.

Spike had gotten dressed in a suit, as he was informed it was a formal last gathering. Ever since he arrived he started searching in the crowd with his eyes to find her. But she hadn't shown up yet. He would of seen her already.

She could be in a crowd of a thousand people and he would spot her. He could always see her. Her scent, her golden hair, her green eyes, her immaculent beauty and compassion. Yep, he would of seen her already.

Long minutes passed by and Spike was growing more worried with every passing second. His eyes kept scanning the crowd for her.....but no sign. He grabbed Cordy's arm and turned her around to him.

"Where is she?" Spike asked impatiently. Concern riding in his voice.

" Uh... B-Buffy?" Cordelia asked.

" Yes. Where is she?" He repeated again. She winced at the strongness in his arm.

" I-I don't know. She said she was coming." Cordelia stuttered nervously. He growled and let go of her.

" Shes bloody 45 minutes late!" Spike groaned to himself. Cordelia shrugged and walked off towards Anya.

" Relax, man. She'll be here." A male voice from behind him came. He whipped around to meet Xander's grin.

" I don't know, mate. She seemed....... distant today." Spike sighed. Xander patted his back.

" I noticed." Xander said giving him a stern look. Spike raised his eyebrows for him to continue. "I just don't get you two is all. One minute your ready to rip each others heads off, the next your all lovey-dovey-"

"We were not 'lovey-dovey!' " Spike tried to protest.

" Listen, I don't know what happened with you two.... but she seemed pretty depressed today. Shes a nice girl, and I don't want to see her hurt." Xander said.

" Thats the last thing I want." Spike heaved, then turned toward Xander suddenly realised what he said. "Wait...how did you know that we...?"

" Trust me, I know all the heated signs. Smiling at each other, you grinning like an idiot lately. Buffy blushing around you, and the love scenes were way too hot." Xander drew out. Spike nodded. Then, Xander added, "Not to mention I saw you kissing in the hall the other day......"

Spike chuckled. 'Busted.' He thought. His grin suddenly broke out into a frown. There was a long silence between the two.

" I messed up big time, mate." Spike said with a sigh.

" Well, its nothing you probably can't fix." Xander shrugged.

'If he only knew.' Spike thought.

"Speaking of.....look at the babe in the golden dress." Xander said as he nudged Spike to look.

Spike glanced at the doorway, and what he saw took his breath away and he swore his heart skipped a beat. Buffy just entered in the room. Her long, silk golden dress hung on her perfectly, accentuating her curves and slender body. Her tan skin and golden hair matched the color of her dress. Her hair was pulled back in a low bun at the back of her soft neck, while a few strands hung by her beautiful face. Her green eyes seemed to shimmer out in the crowd, but they looked like they held a certain sadness to them.

He watched as Anya and Cordelia walked over to her and she began chatting and mingling with the people located in the room. As she began to move, Spikes heart started to slam against his rib cage with powerful thuds, and his palms turned sweaty.

'God, shes beautiful.' Spike thought, never taking his eyes off hers.

Xander shook his head slowly and walked away, leaving the bleached man in awe.

Buffys eyes accidentally landed on his and held them for a moment before a sad smile took over her elegant features and she looked away, distracting her attention on a passing guest.

Spike frowned and shuffled his feet in the carpet, before walking off to a couple of people in the corner of the room.

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When Buffy saw Spike, her mind shut down and went on overload at the same time. He made her shiver and tingle and want to cry at the same time, from just staring at her. His weak soft smile sent flashes in her mind of him grinning at her, smiling, and doing that cocky smirk of his. She looked away from him, holding back the tears shimmering in her eyes, blinking them away.

He looked so good. So handsome, strong, and sexy in that suit. Cordelia and Anya's words drained out of her mind while she tried to distract herself from looking at him again.

'Why had I come at all?! Why couldn't I of just stayed home, like I planned to do?!' Buffy mentally cursed herself.

"Will you excuse me?" Buffy asked as the woman nodded, and Buffy walked off, grabbing a glass of wine from a passing waiter.

She sipped at the thick liquid burning her throat as it went down. She had drunk it down in one long gulp. She walked out into the hall and noticed a few of the blown up pictures from past shoots. They must of done it for the party.

She stayed still in her spot for a moment, closing her eyes and trying to remember the delicious memory that was infront of her. A warm hand on her shoulder snapped her out of her trance. The figure came beside her, glancing at the photo.

" S' nice. Guess we work well together, luv." Spike said. She gave him a sideways glance and then kept her eyes on the picture.

"Yeah." She replied weakly. Spike turned, and in one swift movement was infront of her.

" You look beautiful tonight." Spike spoke softly. She closed her eyes for a second, draining his voice in.

'No! No! Need to walk away. Can't be here, with him. Can't hear his voice. Not while hes saying this....' She made a dash to move, but he turned her around to him.

" Don't run from me, please." His plea came out desperate. She winced at the tenderness in his voice. But it soon replaced with anger.

" Me?! You're the one whos running from me!" Buffy hissed in a bitter whisper. "You say you believe in love, but then when its given to you, you run! I don't know what your problem is.... but I'm damn sick of caring!"

" Then don't." He replied just as cruelly. Her hand come up instantly, smacking him across the cheek, leaving a light red mark.

" I wouldn't if I didn't love you so damn much!" Buffy shut her eyes briefly calming her tone. "I don't want to feel like this."

His anger immediately melted away, the pain on his face momentarily forgotten at her vunerable and weak voice.

"Buffy-"

" Make it stop." She interrupted in a plea. A tear sliding down her face.

" Wha'?" Spike asked confused.

" Make the hurting stop." She almost begged, her voice becoming in pants. " Make the pain stop, Spike. Please. It feels like I can't breathe..." She sobbed. " It hurts so much...." She said breaking out in crying.

Spike stood frozen infront of her, watching her almost cry to the ground. His mind went blank, and he panted for air desperately. It was killing him, seeing her like this. Seeing her hurt.....cry. He wanted to hold her, wrap his arms around her, soothe her. But couldn't. Just stared down at her with wide sad eyes.

She managed to gain her composure and look up at him. He suddenly found his voice.

" I can't make it stop." He said shaking his head. New confidence rose in her as she stood. Her eyes cold as steel.

" Why not? You made it start." Buffy said shakily.

" I know."

" No! You don't know!" Buffy yelled.

" I don't want us to end this way, Buffy." Spike said.

" You can't always get what you want." Buffy said.

"I-"

" Everyone gather in the dining area! The food is about to be served!" Xander yelled, disrupting this painful conversation.

Buffy thanked heaven for Xander. Wiping her eyes desperately, she walked off to the gathering people in the dining area.

Spike inhaled and exhaled deeply. Trying to get control. After a moment, he strode towards the others.

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"Now everyone, settle down, settle down." Xander's voice shouted to all the people seated around the table. It was soon quiet, complete attention to him. "Now I would like to present a toast." He said gripping his glass and raising it, along with everyone else. " To a successful job well done, and a wonderful time doing it!" Xander shouted with a smile.

Everyone raised their glasses, and tapped them together in the center of the long table.

"Here here!" Some people shouted.

" I would most like to thank Buffy and Spike for all their hard work, and having them be the hottest couple the world will see!" Xander joked as everyone took another swig of their wine and champaigne. " Now I believe Buffy would like to say some words...."

A dumbstruck Buffy turned red, shaking her head in surprise.

" I-I do?" She asked. Xander nodded, pleading her with his eyes.

" Yes you would." Xander said winking.

"Right....yeah, I would." Buffy lied as she stood up with her glass.

She glanced around the table, everyone fell silent and all eyes were on her. She took a big gulp in her throat before speaking.

" I...uh... would like to say thank you to Xander for being an awesome director, and taking it easy on us. To Anya who helped along with the more....physical attributes and being a good friend to me. Cordelia, for designing the fabulous clothes and being there. Andrew, for making one heck of a moca with cream." She stared at the blonde head smiling at him.

" And to Spike." She dreaded this part, but knew she had to. " You and I had our problems at first to say the least, but as we got to know each other more, I found a cool person beyond all that leather," A small chuckle escaped everyones lips, " And you turned out to be a really good friend and I'm going to miss you so much. And I know this is probably the last time we see each other..." Buffy's voice cracked a little at the last part.

Everyone around thought she was being polite and platonic, but the only people without a smile on was him. He knew she wasn't lying and she meant it in a different way.

"I'm sorry....I have to..." Buffy cleared her throat, trying to gain back some confidence and strength.

'Come on, Buffy. Don't cry. Don't get like that.' She inwardly prayed to herself.

Without another word, Buffy ran out of the room and straight for the doors.

Everyone fell silent, glancing at one another, wondering why the blonde had rushed out like that. Spike looked down at his lap.

"I'll go see if shes okay." Cordelia said getting up, Spikes arm pulled her back down.

" No. I will." He said as Anya and Xander looked at him. Xander just smiled and nodded. He stood up.

" Go get her, man." He heard Xander whisper while exiting the room.

He glanced around at the halls looking desperately around for her. He ran straight to the doors, pearing out the glass but seeing no one.

With a sigh, he ran out the door to go back to his apartment.

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" Buffy! Open the soddin door!" She heard Spike yell from out in the hall. She thanked whatever sense she had left in he that she remembered to lock the door behind her.

She groaned and shouted back. "No!"

'God, why doesn't he just give up already?! Hes been out there for ten minutes!' Not answering him the first five minutes, you think he would of gotten the hint. But he kept banging, knowing she was in there. He was going to wake all her neighbors on the same floor if she didn't answer. That or get someone to open the door, but she couldn't see him, so she just kept yelling muffled 'no's and 'go away.'

" I'm not leaving until we bloody talk!" His aggrevated voice shouted.

" We're talking. Now go away!" Buffy screamed to the door.

She heard him bang once, twice, and three times. Cursing and muttering something under her breath, she made her way to the door.

" For the last time! Leave me-" Buffy said swinging the door open to reveal an empty hall. "Alone." She whispered with a frown. He left.

She shut the door firmly, heading off to bed. She stopped in her tracks when she realised something.

The shoot was now completely over. Finished. Her work was done, and there was nothing....or no one to keep her here in New York. She had to go back home. That meant she wouldn't see Spike any more. Tonight was the last time. The.very.last.time.

That thought pained her in her chest deeply. Would he go before her? Would they ever see each other again? Should she leave first? She weighed her options.

Yep, not a thing to keep her here.

With a silent decision made, she walked back in her bedroom, pulling out her suitcase and bag.

By this time tomorrow..... she would be home. In her house. Alone.

Good bye New York.

And most importantly......

Good bye Spike.

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TBC....

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Spike stared up at the plain white ceiling of his room. He didn't know how long he had been staring at it, or why he was staring up at it. But he was. He wanted to let out a chuckle from how ridiculous he must look. Sitting sprawled out upon his bed, not bothering to get under the covers, and looking like he was death himself.

He didn't know what time it was. Hell, he didn't even care. The only thing he was aware of was he was seeing her. Her beautiful face. Flashing in his mind.

It was quiet all around him, and wished someone could be there with him. Not just someone, Buffy.

'And if I weren't such a stupid git, she could be here with you right now. Laughing, smiling, driving me crazy.'

He glanced sideways, and noticed some light rays shining through his window. He stuck out his hand and let the rays shine on his hand.

' God, even sodden sunshine makes me think of her! Bloody wanker!'

He rolled his limp body out of the shadows on his bed, and stepped infront of his window.

He reached a hand out, lightly placing it on the blinds. He hesitated for a moment, as if praying it would still be day outside. Still be shining. With one quick draw of breath, he pulled the blinds up and suddenly his room was no longer black, but filled with beaming light.

He had to squint his eyes a little from the sudden change in atmosphere, but then gained composure and closed his eyes, as if letting the rays drown into him.

Spike opened his eyes, and gazed about his room. Messy wasn't the word. Empty liquor bottles everywhere, completely drained of its content, clothes were laid about, and empty fast food cartons covered his table. He had been there the entire night, just writing. And it didn't help any if he had gotten piss drunk.

He figured he hadn't gotten a chance to write as of late, considering his predicament with the shoot and Buffy. And thats what made him write. Buffy. He couldn't get her out of his mind, so he decided to put it down on paper.

He walked over to the crumpled sheets of paper, and gathered them neatly into a pile, making a mental note to show them to the band later on, and practice the cords.

"Stupid....bloody....buggerin'....." Spike cursed himself, searching for the right word.

'Get her out of your soddin mind! You wanted this, remember?! You did this! It was the right thing to bloody do!' Spike thought to himself, walking over to his closet.

'Then why does it hurt so much?.....' His inner monologue debated.

'Because you broke her heart and feel guilty!' He protested.

' Broke her heart....or yours?' His inner devil bit back. Spike groaned loudly, pulling a shirt over his head.

'This is crazy I am not having a conversation with myself!' He shook his head.

He was seriously boarding on insanity right about now. Can women do that to you? He wondered. Well...this woman can. He let out a chuckle from his throat. Just then, the doorbell rang.

Spike froze. Was it her? He ran to his mirror, ran his hands through his tousled locks, and ran over to the door.

With one deep breath, he swung the door open.

"Bloody hell. What do you want whelp?" Spike groaned, looking at the brunette infront of him.

" Oh ya' know.... was just in the neighborhood." Xander shrugged.

" Oh so this neighborhood happened to be right infront of my hotel, up three floors and right down the hall?" Spike smirked, ushering the man inside.

" Well....no. Not exactly. Just came by to see if-"

" If me and Buffy worked things out." Spike finished for him. Xander nodded. "Well let me give you the short version. No." Spike said, plopping down on the sofa.

" Oh. What happened? I thought you went after her last night?" Xander asked, taking a seat next to him.

" I did. She wouldn't talk to me." He let out a breath he didn't realize he was holding. "I really done it this time mate."

"Hey, hey now Mr. Negative." Xander said, patting his shoulder. "You don't know that. Just don't give up." Spike jolted out of his seat and started pacing infront of him.

"Give up?! Bloody hell! Thats the problem! I *did* give up! I let her.... go." Spike said, trying to calm the emotion now rising in his voice.

"Go? Shes right down the hall-"

"No. I meant...." Spike stopped pacing. "She said she loved me." He admitted, covering his face with his hands.

Silence.

"Xander?..." Spike asked, raising his eyes to the quiet man. Xander was looking at him dumbfounded. He watched the man for a moment or two, and then watched as a smile broke from his lips. He jumped up.

" Well then whats the problem?!" Xander asked. Spike rolled his eyes.

" Good question." Spike said sitting back down. "I-I just...... don't think I love her." Spike said slumping down. He raised his head to the man still smiling.

"Sure you don't." Xander said with a mischevious smile.

"I don't! I-I....." Spike sat back up straight now. After a few seconds of inner debate, he added, his voice raspy, "I can't love her."

" Can't or won't?" Xander bit out. Taking a sigh, he continued. "Listen, man. I don't know whats been going on with you two. But it sounds like you already do love her.....but won't admit it to yourself."

" I don't love her." Spike said, jumping up and crossing his arms over his chest stubbornly.

" Do too." Xander sing songed.

" Do not!"

"Do too!"

"Do not!"

"Do too!"

"Oh, this is bloody ridiculous! I am not going to bloody defend myself with you!" Spike screamed aggrevated. Xander smirked.

" Just cause your going to loose."

" Am not!" Spike protested.

"Are too!"

" A- stop that!" Spike shouted. Xander obliged. "Are not." Spike said one last time. Xander rolled his eyes.

"Then why is your place a mess? And why do you look like you haven't gotten any sleep in days?" Xander questioned. "Or how come you invited her to the club to watch you play? Yeah, Anya found out. And you haven't shacked up with anyone since you met her!" Xander pointed an accusing finger at him. "And you were her escort at that shin-dig a few nights ago! Yeah buster, it was all over the headlines!"

There came no response as Xander backed Spike up onto the couch. He remained silent, processing all the pieces of the puzzle together.

" I don't know." Came his weak reply. Xander walked over to his door and put his hand on it. He turned around to him, still smirking.

" I think you do." And with that, he was gone. Shutting the door behind him.

Spike sat there like a tamed puppy on the couch, afraid to move because his master might come back. Gaining control back some of his pride and manliness, Spike snorted and looked around. "What does he know?" He said cooly.

His face fell after a few minutes of thought.

'What *does* he know? I mean....I can't...I've only.... but I was such... oh fuck.' Spike panicked, resuming his pacing.

'Oh no, no, no. I do. I do love her! I love Buffy!' As soon as the revelation crossed through his mind, his frown resumed its place. 'Great, forgot one thing, she hates you now! You broke her heart.'

The door opened swiftly a crack, and Xanders head peered in again.

"By the way, don't give up this time. Go. And good luck." Xander wished, and shut the door.

Spike shook his head. "Not going." A moment of silence fell around himself. "I'm not going." He repeated, trying to convince himself.He sighed." Oh who am I kidding? I'm going!" He grinned and ran over to his door.

Without another glance back, he opened his door and ran out straight to her room. he lifted a hesitant hand, and stopped it right before it knocked on the door. 'What am I going to say? Hi, Buffy. I know I royally screwed you over for the past couple of days, but guess what? I just realized I love you?!'

No that won't do. He shut his eyes for a minute, repeating in his head. 'Don't give up. Just do it.'

Not another thought crossed his mind as he lifted his hand yet again, and knocked on the door once.

No answer.

Twice.

Still no answer.

Three times.

Nothing.

Spike's breathing became rapid with worry, as he began pounding on the door fiercely. He backed up and dug inside his pocket for something. "Aha!" He screamed in triumphment as he clutched one of Buffy's pins for her hair in his hand.

She had left it at his place and he had been remembering to return it. He bent down on the floor, and slid the pin into the door hole. Twisting and turning it masterfully, he heard a little click and he turned the knob. The door swung open.

Spike froze as he observed the area infront of him. Where is she? Spike slowly rose to his feet. He stumbled into the room slowly, spinning around.

"Buffy?" He choked the word out, as if hoping for an answer.

All of her stuff was gone. Nothing was here left of her. But he had to keep looking.

'She has to be here! She can't just.....leave me.' His thoughts suddenly gave his legs power, and he ran to her bedroom, pushing open the doors.

The bed was made neatly, and it was empty. Completely empty. He took one step into the room.

"No." Spike whispered shaking his head in dibelief.

His heart was pounding in his body, slamming against his rib cage, screaming no! But his mind was blank, saying yes.

He walked over to the bed and saw the only thing that remained of her. A small red presence, lying on her pillow. He covered it with his hand, and lifted the red rose he had given her a few days back.

The world stopped as he gazed down at it. He closed his eyes, shutting them tightly. Unaware of the water substance cascading down his cheeks.

He bawled his hand in a fist, and then let his arms drop to his sides weakly. Watching the rose fall slowly to the ground. Along with his heart.

With one last look around, he made for the door. 'Maybe I can still catch her.' Although he knew it was a ridiculous idea, he had to try. He had to try anything. He couldn't give up on this....on her.

Spike ran out of her room, and down the hall to the stairs. Sod the elevator, he had no time.

He ran as fast as his mortal legs could go down the black steps. Reaching the floor he broke off into a sprint to the lobby.

Her car was gone. No limo around. He ran out to the street, praying he would just walk out and she would be waiting for him.

He stepped out into the now cloudy sky. It was cold out, and dark. Very dark. He turned his back on the speeding road, and began to sob lightly.

Shes gone.

He sniffled and glanced up at the thundery sky. Shadows of clouds came together, blocking out the sun. He shut his eyes, and started to pray to God.

As an answer, a drop of water fell on his upturned face. His eyes fluttered open and observed the falling droplets on his face.

And he stood there. Seconds, minutes, hours. He wasn't sure. He didn't care. All he could feel was his heart breaking, and the cool moist coming down more powerfully now.

After a while, he made his way back into the hotel, soaking wet and miserable. He didn't care of the old lady giving him odd looks, or the passing strangers whispering about him. Spike walked over to the front desk.

"Er....uh....h-hello, Mr. Johnson." The man asked, eyeing him apprehensively. "How may I help you?"

" Just here to check out. Can you have a limo ready for me in an hour?" Spike replied. The man shook his head.

"Of course, sir." He said as Spike turned around, but then one last idea crossed his mind as he turned slowly back to the man. "Is there anything else I can do for you?"

" Uh.... yeah. Did someone leave a message for me, maybe?" He asked gently.

" Let me check." The boy answered, and began searching the desk. "Aha! Yes! Here it is. Miss Summers left this for you." The man beamed, holding up a white envelope.

Spike smiled and reached for the envelope.

"Thanks." Spike said, as he walked away.

Once far enough away in private, in his room, he sat down on his couch. 'Better to sit.' He thought as he tore the top open.

He peered inside of it, and took out the object it contained. He picked it up and held it infront of his face. The necklace he gave her. His goldilocks.

Pouring water on fire. Acid on a burn.

This hurt like hell.

He held the chain tightly in his hands, before throwing it across his room madly. Plopping his head in his lap, tears spilling out. The only thing drilling into his brain was the love for her. He let her go. She was gone.

She was gone.

And she took his heart with her.

_________________________

Part 18
______________________

Two Weeks Later

Buffy was sound asleep in her bed and didn't hear the door swinging open in her room, nor the person walking into it. Suddenly, the room was bathed of shining sunlight causing Buffys eyes to open wearily.

" Good morning!" One of the maids shouted, while walking over towards Buffy's bed. Once she reached it, she threw the covers completely off the snuggled blonde.

"Whats so good about it? And I'm not done sleeping yet!" Buffy shouted as she tried to capture the stolen blankets. There was a loud sigh from the lady.

"Listen darling, you know I'm here for you no matter what, but ever since you got back from New York you seem down and depressed. I don't know what happened but its time to get over it. You can't spend your whole life mopping around."

Buffy rolled over on her side to talk to her. "Why not? Lifes out to screw you anyway." She grumbled.

" Honey.... Oh! I have an idea! Why don't you go out shopping today with Willow? That always cheers you up." She suggested.

" I don't know...." Buffy said.

"Oh come on. It will be fun. And who knows? You might meet Mr. Right while you're out." The maid said in a sing-song voice before leaving the room.

"I already have." Buffy mumbled to herself. "Ya know.... maybe shes right. I need to go out and have some fun.... time to get over it...him." Buffy mused.

'Yeah right.' Her brain bit back.

Buffy stood out of bed and walked over to her wardrobe. After dressing in a pair of jeans and a tank top she walked over to her sofa and flopped down on it. She was about to turn on the television when her cell phone rang.

Buffy held her mini phone in her small hands. It was Willow. She opted to throw it out of the window...but decided she better not. It was definetely a bad idea to have told her all the details about her and Spike. Every last detail.

She was just so depressed the first few days and Willow had visited her and she couldn't lie anymore. Plus it felt good to get everything out in the open. That is, until she kept calling making sure she was okay, and sending her mountains of chocolate.

Which the last part she didn't mind too much. But enough was enough.

"Hey." Buffy answered after a few rings.

"Oh my goddess!" Came the squeeky reply. Buffy grimaced and held the phone a few inches away form her ear.

"Three things Will. One, ow. Two, I think if you do that one more time I will be forced to strangle you and three, what?" Buffy asked.

" You are on every magazine cover this side of Kalamazoo!" Willow shouted again.

"Will have you been drinking coffee again? 'Cause I told you that you and coffee were unmixy things." Buffy said.

She could almost see the eye roll come from the redhead on the other line.

" No, I haven't been drinking coffee again. And in my defense that was only one time-" Willow replied after a long dramatic sigh.

"Okay getting off topic here." Buffy asked, getting a little impatient.

" Sorry. But the shoot has been a huge hit! I mean from Cosmo to Seventeen, Twist to Victoria's Secret, Vogue to Women! You are everywhere girl! I've checked your stats and ratings too! Since it all came out you have gone up 40% in the popularity scale!" Willow gushed.

"Yay?" Buffy said, rather a question than a statement. She didn't sound enthusiastic or happy at all.

"Definetely yay! Come on... make with the yayness. Snoopy dance or something. Why am I the only one whooping? Join in with the whoops here, Buff." Willow said.

" Whoop." Buffy tried, but a second later laughed at her pathetic attempt. "I'm sorry Will. Thats great, it really is but.... I'm not in the mood for celebrity boosting or popularity polls right now."

There was a pause before Willow spoke.

" Its about Spike, huh?" The redhead asked, dropping her tone to a soft dramatic.

" No, no." Buffy denied with a dismissive hand. There was another pause. "Kind of.... maybe... yes." Buffy admitted, sulking down in her seat.

" Buffy....." Willow said in a comforting tone.

"No its fine. I'm fine. I just gotta get over it. Its over." Buffy said. "But thats just it! I don't think theres anyone else out there for *me*. I thought... I am.... I still love him." Buffy droned.

"There is still someone out there for you Buffy. It may not be him but hes out there. Somewhere." Willow said.

" Maybe I am supposed to be alone forever." Buffy said.

"No-"

"I mean if you think about it there aren't an even number of everyone out there right? So there has to be like one person left over to be cast aside with no partner. I am her. Buffy the loner."

" No! Come on. You're pretty, nice, considerate, smart, funny and a great friend and person." Willow said.

" Then why doesn't anyone love me?" Buffy asked with a frown, blinking the tears away. Willow sighed.

" I love you." Willow said, smiling on the other line. "I mean...in a whole friendship kind of way... cause I'm not like that. Not that theres anything wrong with that! I mean...er, with Oz. I am with Oz." Willow stuttered. Buffy laughed at her friends noncoherent ramblings.

" I know Will. Thanks. How are you and Oz doing anyhow?" Buffy asked, praying for a change of subject or she will be reduced to a crying and sniffing Buffy. A Buffy who watched Lifetime movies and eats tons of chocolate. Like recently.

" Oh Buffy.... hes so cool! I mean hes with a band! A-and plays bass.... and hes funny and cute and smart. And we can talk about anything. Well me mostly talk and he mostly listens...but still. I really like him." Willow beamed.

"Thats great Wills. I'm happy for you, I really am." Buffy said.

" Oh! I almost forgot. I scheduled an exclusive interview with 'E' today. Around four-ish so that leaves plenty of time for us to go shopping and get pampered." Willow said.

" Great, another interview. Fine. But...why would I get 'pampered' for an interview?" Buffy asked.

" Well... I just thought that you would like a day out with your gal. Shopping and goodies. What'da ya say? Hmm?"Willow asked.

"Sure. Bye." Buffy said and cut the call.

With a deep breath she turned on her television. Only to see.....him. Hollywood Access is doing an interview with him and his band. Buffy groaned.

" Okay, t.v. not so safe." Buffy said to herself as she flipped the screen off. "I know, radio." She said while turning on her stereo.

[Number three on our countdown is a new single by Screaming Silence! Heres their latest hit 'Goodnight Sweet Girl'! ]

Buffy heard the VJ say. She closed her eyes as his beautiful lyrics and voice drown into her.

God, how she missed his voice. Sexy, cool, calm and sensual.

Visions of that night at the club flooded through her mind as she turned her stereo off.

"Bad, bad idea. Horrible idea. Radio not so safe." Buffy whispered.

Of course she could check magazines, but that would only have pictures of them. Maybe she should go outside, but with the luck she was having there would be a fifty foot billboard with their faces plastered on it.

Just her luck.

----------------------

A few hours later, Buffy and Willow had managed to hit almost every shop located in L.A. But Buffy had drawn the line in Bloomingdales after spending more money than two cars most likely. Now they were driving down the boulevard, making their way to the interview for the day.

"I can not believe we spent that much money!" Buffy appalled.

" Yeah we got our badselves down and dirty in the cash department. We sure do know how to spend a pretty penny when we want to." Willow said with a laugh.

"Yeah but don't be surprised if I ask you to spot me a twenty for gas sometimes." Buffy joked.

" Oh please Ms. Rich and Famous. I'm sure by the end of the day you'll have earned twice as much as what we spent with all the magazines out." Willow said as they pulled up to a small building.

"Uh... not the best place for a celebrity interview. Will, are you sure we have the right address?" Buffy asked gazing at the dimly lit place.

"Positive." Willow said as she put on the break and they both clambered out of the car.

Buffy started inside when noticing her companion was missing in action next to her. She turned around but the redhead was gone.

"Okay...." Buffy drew out with a curious brow. With a deep frown and shrug she entered the building.

Buffy walked down the dark hall. Everything about this place is screaming ' Somethings not right! Run! Don't go in! Get out while you still can!' But Buffy kept on walking down.

Things were eery and quiet. Too quiet for Buffy's likeing. Shouldn't there be a person to greet her at the door or at a desk? Some cameras perhaps? Or any sign of human life would be nice....

"Uh...h-hello?..." Buffy's raspy voice croaked out. "Willow? Anyone?..."

Silence.

Buffy's footsteps seemed to get louder with every step. 'Potentially warning any killer their next victim is about! Oh great job Buffy! Go with the chunky heels screaming 'kill me now!' ' Buffy thought.

As she reached the end of the hallway, the world seemed to go in slow motion. Like a movie slowed down.

Once she turned sharply on her heel, she entered the dark room.

There was only one source of light in the room. A candle was set next to a blood red rose on a small table in the middle of the room. As Buffy walked a few more feet in she knew it wasn't just any candle.

It was a vanilla candle. Just one resembling her scent. Buffy strode over to the table and picked up the rose.

'What is going on?'

"Hello? Is someone there?" Buffy tried again, only it came out as a whisper. Her heart was leaping in her chest and beating a thousand times per second. Her stomach felt flat and twisted at the same time... and some familiar presence was in the room.

She knew someone must be here.

Buffy turned and thought she saw a shadow figure but it could have been her imagination. Or was it?

Suddenly, one light flickered on behind Buffy. And it was shining on a figure standing in the corner of the room. Buffy spun around and came face to face with-

"Spike?" Buffy breathed heavily at the man a few feet away from her.

But he didn't say anything. He just took a step forward. And another, and another until he was right infront of her.

Buffy was confused to say the least. It was as if she was trapped in some odd alternate universe. And she was watching this happen.

Spike turned his head toward something hanging on the wall across the room. He handed her the candle and motioned for her to go to it. She took the candle with a shakey hand.

"Wha-"

"Shh luv. Just go." Spike said placing a hnd on the small of her back.

She looked to where he was pointing. She gave him a sideways glance before walking over to the object on the wall. She lifted her candle to see it and almost dropped it on the spot.

There, hanging on the wall was a banner. A huge banner. With every photo they have ever taken together, some on set and some off. She read the words on top and it said 'A picture is worth a thousand words, but ours are worth a thousand more.' She moved the light downwards to read the subscription at the bottom. It read-

"I love you, Buffy." Buffy spoke the words written very carefully to herself. Very carefully and slowly. She heard Spike chuckle and knew he was right behind her. He wrapped his arms around her waist and whispered in her ear:

" Hey, thats my line, luv." Spike said in her ear. Buffy smiled softly, but never turning to face him.

"Well you know me. Never one to wait my turn. So impatient." Buffy said cooly, earning another laugh from him.

"Not to mention stubborn, spoiled, and impossible." Spike added dryly. Buffy swatted him in the arm.

"Jerk."

"Bint."

" Ass."

Spike spun her around then, squeezing her upper arms with his hands.

" Do you ever give up?" Spike asked with a smile.

" Never." Buffy replied lowly, locking eyes with him.

God how she missed his eyes! And his face, and his touch. She missed him. She took his hand in hers and realized she was still head over heels in love with this man. And no matter how many miles she put between them, she never stopped loving him.... and she never could.

" Me neither." Spike said gripping her hands and smashing his lips on hers.

His taste. She missed that most of all. But she would never forget it and she craved it so much over these past few weeks. And it felt so right to kiss him. And she never wanted to let go.

Spike lifted her off the ground and spun her around, not breaking the mind blowing kiss.

Just at that moment all the lights flickered on and whistles, whoots and cheering could be heard. Buffy broke the kiss when she heard camera shots going off.

With her arms still wrapped around Spike's neck and her legs wrapped around his waist, she glanced toward the direction of the noise and smiled brightly.

Willow, Oz, Xander, Cordelia, and Anya were all standing next to a camera with beaming smiles and still cheering and whistling.

Buffy turned her head back to Spike and gave him a peck on the lips before jumping off of him. He grinned and took her hand, leading them to the waiting people.

"Willow.... you had something to do with this?" Buffy tried to sound stern but she couldn't hide her happiness. Willow blushed and looked guilty for a moment.

"Well you were miserable, and I talked to Oz who said Spike was just as miserable. Then I contacted Xander and we all got to talking and concocted a plan." Willow said, linking arms with Oz.

"And of course once Xander told us we just had to come and see the blonde duo reunite!" Cordelia said.

" Enough chit chat. I reserved you a room at the nearest motel just in case...." Willow said as she handed Spike the keys.

With one more look to the people, Spike picked up Buffy. You didn't have to tell him twice.

"Well nice seeing you all again. But me and m' lady best be going." Spike said as he rushed out with Buffy.

Everyone who remained in the room glanced at each other with approving nods.

"Its about damn time." Anya said shaking her head.

----------------------------------

It was a very difficult time waiting to get to the motel. Spike was ready to take her in the car for all he cared. He wanted her and thats all that mattered. And she was his now. Forever. And he loved her more then anything in the world.

The door to the room burst open and the blondes were instantly all over each other. They were in a steamy kiss when Spike was moving her backwards to the bed, she broke the kiss as she sat down at the end of the bed.

" I wanted you so much." Buffy said while he crawled on top of her.

" I missed you so bloody much." Spike whispered huskily, kissing her neck. " I couldn't think, couldn't sleep...." Spike said as he pushed her down laying flat on the mattress. "Just wanted to feel you.... touch you.... I missed your scent baby. I love you."

It was getting hard to concentrate with the things he was doing to her. The things he was saying. So she just let go.

---------------------

A few hours later they were breathing heavy in a sweaty heap on the bed. Buffy was curled in Spike's side. She let a contented sigh escape her lips, along with a smile.

She thought she was going to be doing that a lot lately.

"Wow." Buffy breathed, running her fingers down his heaving chest,drawing patterns.

" Just....wow?" Spike smirked, brushing a lock of gold out of her face.

" Okay really wow. The wow-est?"Buffy giggled.

" Is that even a word, luv?" He asked with a chuckle.

" No, but I don't do ego- stroking. Just have to get your male jollies and gloats somewhere else." Buffy said, mimicking Willow's 'resolve face.'

" Well you got to give me something here, pet. With sucking my glory moment away earlier and what not." Spike said with a wave of his hand. Buffy rolled her eyes.

" Well if it makes you feel any better, your welcome to tell me over and over again." Buffy said as she snuggled into his side more.

" Will do, luv. 'Sides, now that I got you I'm never letting you go. Ever." Spike said squeezing her tightly. "Looks like your stuck with me forever, goldilocks."

" Forever?" Buffy asked joyfully.

" And ever." Spike confirmed with a smirk.

Buffy raised her head from his chest to look him in the eye.

"Promise?"

"Promise."

"Good. Now stop moving, trying to get snuggly here." Buffy said moving into him more. Spike rolled his eyes and shook his head.

" Bitch."

"Jerk."

"Brat."

"Loser."

"Did you just call me a loser?" Spike grinned down at his blushing blonde, laughing from how pathetic her supposedly cold shoulder was.

" Oh, shut up." Buffy laughed closing her eyes.

However, some things never change.

______________________

TBC.....

Epilogue

A/N: Hey everyone! Thanks for all the reviews! Meant a lot to me through this whole story!! This is the last chapter obviously... *tear*tear.... and I decided to finally write after watching the season premiere of Angel, about a mere 10 minutes ago. Yay Spikes back!!

Disclaimer: If I really owned Spike then I wouldn't be here right now typing down all my fantasies, now would I? I'de be living them hehe.

Rating: Pg13

Summary: Buffy Summers- a fresh, upcoming model in the business is hired to do an intimate photo shoot with Spike Johnson, the hottest thing in music. They will be King and Queen of the year.... but does hatred and desire turn them into the couple of the year? B/S

______________

3 Years Later

" I can't believe you did that!" Buffy shrieked, stopping and looking about the room.

"What were you thinking?!" Cordelia yelled in horror.

"Were you even thinking at all?" Willow chimed in.

" Men! Its so like them! Rush, rush, rush!" Anya added.

The four of the women glanced back over to the three guilty looking men.

" Bloody hell. Calm down! I only furnished one bloody room!" Spike yelled back in defense.

"I think it looks nice." Xander supported, gaining death glares from all of the women population. "Er, I mean.... horrible, horrible. Bad." Xander quickly amended.

"I think its cool." Oz said.

Buffy snorted. "Oh yes, because an all leather room just screams feminine." She retorted sarcastically.

" Well we had to do something while you bloody birds were off shoppin'!" Spike said defiantley crossing his arms over his chest.

"Yes, to furnish our new home! Not to come home and have it all.... furnished." Buffy shuddered looking at the leather black couches and curtains.

" And just how big does a mans television have to be?" Willow said referring to the rather large set up against the far end of the wall.

All three men glanced at each other and shrugged simutaneously.

All four girls shook their heads and rolled their eyes.

"Okay, we're going to go make lunch and then we'll talk about this later." Buffy said as she picked up the bags she just recently set on the floor and trouncing off into the kitchen with her companions following.

"So Buff... how's married life treating ya' ?" Cordy asked once they were all packed into the kitchen.

Buffy and Spike dated for a few months until they finally decided to tie the knot a while back. Spike had moved into Buffy's floor in L.A for a bit, until they finally decided to get their own house. She had always wanted a house with a riverfront near the beach, so Spike had managed to get them a beautiful two story one with the ocean in their front yard. Literally.

The beach was a mere walk down their hill and its the most beautiful place to be. Buffy had instantly fell in love with it. Their first night in the house was very peaceful and exciting, letting the waves drift them off to sleep.

Now, a few weeks later they were furnishing their new dream home. Which what sounded like fun had been turning into a nightmare for the blonde couple. From the paint, to the floors and couches they had argued about *everything*. But still, they loved every minute of it.

" I'm adjusting. Its hard at times.... especially if he has no taste in decorating whatsoever!" Buffy yelled the last part loudly, so he could hear it from the other room.

"Ey! At least 'm not the one who wanted pink-"

Ah! Spike don't you dare!" Buffy threatened.

" .....teddy bears and-"

"Ah! Okay, he's *so* dead!" Buffy said before storming out of the room.

Willow, Anya, and Cordelia looked at each other before going back to making sandwiches.

They could hear Spike yelping, and then hurried footsteps through the house.

Xander and Oz entered the kitchen and sat down at the table.

"Hey. Lunch is almost ready.." Willow said as fixed another sandwich.

" Spike! Don't-ahh!!" The five of them could hear Buffy's giggles and screams from the other room.

"Ah, the dinamic duo are going at it again. How many times today? Five?" Xander joked as Anya sat down next to him.

" Well love does makes you do the whacky." Cordelia said.

"The whacky or the phsycotic?" Xander joked.

Buffy came running into the kitchen with Spike hot on her heels. She wormed her way on the other side of the counter, the long countertop seperating them as he was on the direct other side. Buffy was gasping in pants out of breath, and amusement was dancing in Spike's eyes as he watched her.

"Stop...*gasp*... it. You... *gasp*... can't...win!" Buffy managed to say between pants. Spike started walking over to her, a predetary gleam in his eyes. Buffy instinctively backed away.

" Is that a challenge, luv?" Spike sneered, closing in on her a few more steps.

" Challenge you? Never." Buffy retorted, bringing her hand on her chest for dramatic emphasis and let out a little gasp when Spike snatched her wrist and pulled her to him, crushing his lips against hers.

*Ahem*

When the two blondes continued to kiss, unaware of the five very uncomfortable people still located in the room.

*AHEM!*

Xander tried again and they finally pulled apart. Buffy blushing, and Spike looking anywhere but at them. The three continued to make coughing and gagging noises, all except for Oz who was studying his sandwich intently and Anya who was slightly bemused by the little show.

"So do you guys want to take a little break before going back to the decorating from hell?" Buffy asked as she walked back over to hre friends.

"Sure."

"We can take a walk on the beach..." Willow suggested. Buffy's smiled.

"Sounds great, come on." Buffy said walking over to get her coat.

---------------------------------

Buffy walked along the sandy beach holding Spike's hand. The others were a little ahead of the pair, laughing and fooling around while they stayed back, walking peacefully together. The wind was small gusts of refreshing salt air, and the water was at steady waves crashing along the shore and rocks.

"I kind of like it." Buffy admitted, glancing up at Spike. He looked down at her, obviously thrown by her comment.

" Pardon?"

" The room. It can be like.... your own. Whenever you need some privacy or a place to hang with your buds." Buffy said with an innocent smile that made his knees weak. They stopped walking and he turned to look at her.

"You serious?" He asked.

" Uh-huh." She said softly. Spike, touched by the offer, bent down and kissed her lovingly. "Besides, all that leather.... I can just imagine all the naughty things I could do to you." She quipped with a smirk as his eyes widened at the idea.

'Oh yeah... bloody well keeping those couches.' Spike thought before he pulled her in for a passionate kiss.

They were both breathless and panting when they finally pulled apart.

" You can thank me more tonight." Buffy said before jogging up in head of him.

" Little minx..." Spike whispered to himself before he ran to catch up to her.

Buffy, Cordelia, Anya, and Willow were all lying on the sand contently, enjoying the dim light of the sun's rays. Buffy pushed her magazine she was reading down so she could glance at her husband and the two other men fooling around in the water.

" So, Anya.... did you set a date yet?" Buffy asked, gaining all the girls attention. Now it was time for the much needed girl talk they had been neglecting recently.

Xander had popped the question to Anya a few weeks back, after having a guy- to-guy talk with Spike.

" Not yet. I was thinking in June... Xander all hot and sweaty..." Anya sighed dreamily as all the girls around her cringed or made disgusted faces.

" TMI. I so didn't want to have that visual." Cordelia shuddered. Anya shrugged.

" What do you think Buffy?" Anya asked to the more experienced wedding- goer.

" I like it. Then we can have all these pretty flowers packed around.... oh! And we can all wear pretty little sun-dresses!" Buffy smiled.

She definetely approved of her maid of honor idea. She would rather wear sun-dresses then some radio-active long green dresses she had seen.

" And for your honeymoon you can go on a cruise to an island! Some little paradise off in the Atlantic..." Cordelia added.

" Oh and you can-" Willow began.

"Oh no! Run Harris! They're planning your bloody future already!" Spike called to the dumb-founded brunnette.

No one seemed to see Spike coming up to them during their little conversation. Nonetheless, they all managed to throw him an evil and threatening glare, which was now named 'The Evil Look of Death.'

"Shut up!" Buffy said whapping him on the arm. He pouted, giving her his best lost puppy look.

Buffy rolled her eyes before mumbling,"Baby." Spike's face fell and changed into a more leering glare.

He slowly walked the last two steps to her, and hauled her over his shoulder, running down to the water.

"Ah! NO! Spike! Put...me...down!" Buffy tried her hardest to wiggle out of his grasp but came up short. He ran into the water and with one twirl he dunked her in the freezing cold.

Buffy came to the surface of the water, slicking back her soaked hair. Her eyes narrowed into two green slits as she swam over to him.

"You ass! Its so cold!" Buffy accused as she jumped and forced her hands on his head, sending him under the waves.

Spike re-surfaced and lifted her by the waist in the air.

"Back to trying to drown me again, pet?" Spike smirked as she tried to get free from his strong hold. "Now, now luv. I believe its my turn..." He said before throwing her back into the water.

"Ahhh!!" Buffy's cry was muffled as she went under once more.

The two spent more time fighting, pushing, and splashing each other in the water, followed by series of kisses. Above and below water.

The five friends on the beach shook their heads at the blondes antics and laughed.

" Do you think they'll be done soon?" Cordelia asked with a sigh.

" Not nearly." Xander said.

--------------------------

All of the guests had vacated the home for the evening, in promises to be back ready to work tomorrow, leaving the pair all alone.

They were now sitting on the swing on their front porch, wrapped up in a blanket cuddled next to each other. Buffy sighed as she leaned her head down to rest on his chest. Spike instantly wrapped his arms around her waist tenderly.

" Hmmm...." Buffy hummed in contentment.

" What are you thinking about, kitten?" Spike asked placing a kiss to the top of her head.

" Children."

"What?!" Spike asked. Buffy giggled at his worried reaction.

"Don't worry, I'm not ready yet to have children yet. I'm just thinking about them playing and growing up here." Buffy said smiling at the vision.

" Cor, luv. Thats where they will learn how to swim..." Spike said pointing at the ocean. "And thats where they will learn how to climb their first tree... and..." Spike trailed off, pointing into different directions.

" Why, Mr. Johnson... are you planning our childrens future?" Buffy couldn't help but poke at his softness.

Spike blushed and shrugged it off.

" Teddy bear." Buffy mocked as she cuddled up farther in his arms. He stiffened at that.

" Teddy bear?"

" Mmmhmm. My cute, soft, cuddly teddy bear." Buffy said, unaware at his sneer.

" Take that back!" Spike defended.

" Oh but its all very sexy." Buffy assured him with a quick peck to his lips.

" Sexy, huh?" Spike pressed.

" Uh-huh." Buffy whispered to his lips before giving them another sweet kiss.

It was silent for a few more minutes until one particular word sunk into her.

"They?" Buffy questioned, raising an eyebrow.

" One boy, one girl. Sound good to you?" Spike mocked.

" Mmmm....yeah. I can see that. A cute little boy with blonde hair and blue eyes..." Buffy said.

"I always wished I could've had a brother or sis around." Spike admitted.

"Me too."

The moments passed quietly by, until Spike finally decided to speak up, shyly.

"Ya' know, the first time I saw you...." Spike began, hesitantly stalling until he noticed her pointed glare for him to finish. "I knew."

"Knew?...." Buffy pressed the subject. Spike let out a long draw of a sigh before continuing.

"I felt like the wind had been knocked out of me....well, techniqually it did since you knocked me straight on my arse...." Spike laughed before coming serious again. "You were beautiful. Something in your eyes just...... I knew I'de marry you someday." Spike whispered.

" Quite the poet are you, William?" Buffy teased before letting her gaze drift back to the waves. "Ya know... I think I knew too."

"That so?'

"Yeah." Buffy sighed as his hands drew comforting circles on her side.

Another peaceful moment passed between them before Buffy's head shot up.

"And hey- for the record I said I was sorry for that. But no, Spike Johnson couldn't accept that." She swatted him on the arm. "And if you looked where you were stepping...."

"Oi! Are you tryin to say its my bloody fault?"

"I'm just saying that there are two parties to blame here..." Buffy batted her eyelashes innocently.

"Oh, yes because don't you know I can foresee the bloody future? Infact, when I stepped out of that elevator I knew a beautiful small blonde was going to run straight into me. So I said to myself, 'what the hell' and went with it." Spike said.

Buffy rolled her eyes.

"Sarcastic ass." She accused.

"Wicked bint."

"Stupid ego-"

They both stopped and looked at eachother, speaking at the same time:

-"You're impossible"-

-"You're impossible"-

They both laughed, before cuddling up more.

"Do you think we'll ever stop bickering?" Buffy questioned a moment later.

"I hope not." Spike said after a dreamy sigh. Buffy grinned.

"Me neither."

"I love you so bloody much." Spike whispered before taking her lips. He was surprised when she pulled back and made her way to the front door. She opened it a crack before turning evilly to him.

"Wanna show me?...." Buffy asked innocently, giving him a sly smile and disappearing inside the house.

"Evil vixen...." Spike mumbled before jumping up and joining her in their house for what seemed like a very long night.

THE END

___________________

A/N: Oh my gosh! So sorry for the lateness for this final chapter. I wrote about five different versions of it but I finally decided to use this one. Hope it was okay! And can you believe that this is the very last you'll read of Desire? No more, *sniff*sniff*. So sad, I know lol. I just want to thank everyone who reviewed and wrote me mail and encouraged me to keep going on this! Your reviews had made me laugh and smile! I hope you liked this story as much as I enjoyed writing it. I'm really touched that so many people loved this. This story wouldn't have been what it is without all of you! Thank you so much!

I hope you continue to read, review, and enjoy my stories I have to write. My new story should be up soon, and it is another A/U. Hope you will all check that out as well!

And with that said, I bid you a final good-bye.

Thanks, again!

-SpIkEs AnGeL