Chapter 24

[Drusilla stood in her husband’s apartment, in the doorway of his bedroom watching him making love to some blonde hoe, with a tattoo on her lower back.

The tattoo was of two dragon flies with touching wings. A image that she would never forget for the rest of her life.

After a few moments of standing there in complete silence and hearing her husband declaring his love for the girl in his bed Dru carefully pick up the vase of roses that were resting on the dresser by the door. After a few more moans she hurled the vase into the wall above the bed causing glass to shatter everywhere.

“YOU BASTARD!” Dru screamed before turning and running out of the apartment, never seeing the girls face.

“Dru. . .” Spike said in a low whisper before quickly looking at Buffy and jumping out of the bed to run after her, picking up his pants on the way.]

*****

By the time Dru came out of her memory of finding her husband with another person Buffy was off the stage and on the dance floor sharing a dance with her date.

Spike placed a hand on his wife’s arm. “Dru? Luv?”

Dru turned to face Spike with an anger he had never seen in her before.

“YOU BASTARD!” She yelled as she ran off the stage onto the dance floor pushing past Riley and Buffy on the way out of the club, causing Buffy to fall to the floor.

“DRUSILLA!” Spike yelled as he ran after his wife, but by the time he got to the club door it was to late. Drusilla was nowhere in sight.

Turning back to the club he walked over to the dance floor as Riley helped Buffy from the ground.

“Are you okay?”

Buffy brushed herself off and turned to Spike. “I’m fine. What happened with her?”

“No clue. One moment she was watching me hand you the flowers and then the next she was calling me a Bastard and running out of the club.”

“Not to mention pushing me to the ground.” Buffy muttered as she turned from Spike a started to head back to her table with Riley.

Spike watched as Buffy walked away and started to head backstage when he noticed her tattoo was showing.

Spike walked after Buffy and grabbed her arm turning her to face him. “Buffy.”

“What?” Buffy said as she pulled her arm out of his grasp.

“Your tattoo is showing.”

“So. . .”

“Buffy your back was facing Drusilla when I handed you the flowers. She must have seen your tattoo.”

Buffy’s eyes grew wide. “Oh god. . .”

*****

Ethan Rayne’s Apartment

“That was Spike on the phone. He wanted to know if I had seen you. He seems to be worried about you.”

“Did you tell him I was here?”

“No.”

“Good.”

“What are you planning on doing about this Summers girl?”

Dru looked up into her Father’s eyes. “Make her pay.”

“How?”

“By causing her the worst pain imaginable. She will regret the day she ever tried to take my husband from me.”

*****

Spike’s Car

“I’ve tried everywhere I could think of that she would be. She’s not at home, or her Father’s.”

“We’ll find her. And besides, Carter and Deacon are out looking for her too.”

“I just don’t want her to do anything to hurt her or the baby.”

Buffy placed a hand on Spike’s knee. “Everything will be alright. She’s not going to do anything to hurt herself or your child.”

“You shouldn’t have come with me.”

“Yeah well this whole thing kinda involves me.”

“You shouldn’t have to worry about any of this. You should be back at the club with your friends, or doing whatever it was you had planned.”

Buffy looked at the clock. “Um, 12:30. I should be back at the loft apartment parting with my roommates and all of our different friends while partaking in under age drinking, and possible sexual acts with Riley. I’d much rather be out trying to help you find Dru and getting everything under control before my class with her on Tuesday.”

Spike pulled the car into his drive way and turned off the engine, running a hand through his hair.

“I’m sorry I wore this dress. Something kept telling me it showed to much skin, I totally forgot about my tattoo.”

“Buffy you looked amazing tonight. The dress was prefect, and Dru would have found out sooner or later.”

“You would have liked it to be later though.”

“I would have liked it to be at my own time, and not so public.”

“Definitely not with most of the college campus there.”

“Definitely.”

******

Carter’s Van

“Tell me again why we are looking for Spike’s wife?” Deacon asked from the passengers seat.

“Because she knows about him and Buffy and he’s worried she might do something stupid.” Carter said as he pulled onto the street that Spike’s house was on.

“Then tell me why he took Buffy with him to help find his wife. I would think that having Buffy around would make things worse.”

“It involves her. She has ever right to be there when Spike and Drusilla discuss what happened over the summer.”

“It involves you too.” Deacon stated as Carter pulled into Spike’s drive way next to his car.

“You’re the only one who knows that’s. And that’s how it is going to stay.”


Chapter 25

Inside Spike’s House

“Did you have any luck?”

“No, sorry. We couldn’t find her anywhere.”

“DAMNIT!” Spike yelled as he threw his shot glass across the room.

Buffy walked over and placed a hand on Spike’s cheek. “It’s no good to get yourself so worked up. She probably just rented a hotel room for the night, or maybe she’s at one of her friend’s homes for the night. And there’s the possibility that she’s really at her Father’s and she asked him to lie for her when you called.”

Spike placed his hand over Buffy’s. “Thank you for being here.”

Buffy nodded her head and removed her hand from his. “It’s partly my fault she’s not here anyways.”

Carter looked away from the former couple and heading into the kitchen. Buffy noticed his movements and followed after him.

*****

“Trying to hide?”

Carter turned to face Buffy. “From you? Never.”

“Good.”

“You looked beautiful tonight.”

“Thank you.”

“Buffy?”

“Yeah.”

“Do you regret what happened between us?”

“I regret a lot of things that happened, not just between us.”

Carter stood there in the kitchen as the girl he was in love with went back into the living room where the man she loved was.

*****

An Hour Later

Buffy had fallen asleep on the couch about forty minutes ago. None of the guys could come to make themselves wake her though so they let her stay that way. Spike placed a blanket over her so she wouldn’t get to cold and was now sitting in the arm chair located across from the couch.

Ethan had called the house after Dru had gone to bed to let Spike know that she was with him and that she was safe. He told Spike that Dru was planning on spending a couple of nights there to help her work through some things, and that she would call him when she was ready to talk. Spike had told Ethan to call if there were any problems and that he was sorry for the pain he was causing his wife.

After ending the call Spike figured it was time to wake Buffy and take her home. He didn’t want to take the chance that Drusilla might change her mind and come home early only to find Buffy asleep in her house.

*****

In Front of the Summer’s Mansion

“Thank you for driving me to the mansion. I pretty sure that my room is being used for sex tonight.”

“Not a problem.” Spike said as he tried to fight a yawn for escaping. “I should probably be going now.”

“Spike your to tired to be driving anymore tonight.”

“No, I’m good.” Spike stated as his eyes fluttered closed

“You can barely keep your eyes open, and your just sitting in the drive way.”

“I’ll be fine once I get back on the road.”

“Or you’ll be dead.”

“I’ll be fine, really.” He said while yawning.

Buffy reached over, turned off the engine and pulled the keys out. “Your not driving anywhere until you get some sleep.”

Buffy placed the keys into her purse and climbed out of the car.

“Buffy what are you doing?” Spike said as he followed her out of the car and up the steps of her home.

“I will not let you drive when your like this. Your just going to have to spend the night here.”

“Buffy I can’t.”

Buffy opened the door and started walking up the stairs to her own room. “There are eight different guest room to choose from, and you can have your keys back in the morning once you get some rest.”

Buffy stopped in front of an oak door. “Here you go. If you need anything I’ll be on the other side of the mansion. The only time you will have to see me is when you come down for breakfast. And after you eat I will give you back your car keys.”

“Buffy. . .”

Buffy pushed the door open. “Goodnight.”

“Buffy!”

“I said goodnight. Now, I’m going to my room to get out of this dress and go to bed.”

“Fine.”

Buffy turned on her heels and disappeared around the hall.

“God she’s stubborn.” Spike said as he walked into the guest room closing the door behind him.
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Chapter 26

Summers’ Mansion-The Next Morning

Buffy was in the shower when she heard a soft tapping on the door to her bathroom. She quickly turned off the water and climbed out of the shower. As she was wrapping the towel around her dripping wet body the door opened.

“Buffy?”

Buffy took a deep breath when she turned around to find a towel clad Spike standing in her doorway. ‘yum!’

“Buffy?”

Buffy looked up from Spike’s bare chest. “Huh?”

Spike stepped into the bathroom and closed the door behind him in order to keep all of the heat from leaving the rather large room. “I was wondering where my clothes are?”

“What?”

“Right. Okay, I was taking a shower and when I got out my clothes were no longer where I had placed them.”

“Oh! Maria probably took them to be cleaned. I’m sure we can find you something to wear until there ready.”

“That’d be great luv.”

Buffy looked around the bathroom, then down at herself. Spike picked up that Buffy was having a problem with their lack of clothing. “Um. I’ll just wait back in the room I was in while you can get ready, and then we can do something about my clothing issue.”

“Thank you.” Buffy said with a small smile on her face. “I’ll be finished in ‘bout 15-20 minutes then.”

“And I’ll just go. . .” Spike said pointing to the door and turning to leave.

“Spike. . .” Buffy somewhat yelled out in a pleading voice.

“Yeah?”

Buffy locked eyes with Spike trying to find the courage to say what she were truly feeling inside. Unable to make the right words come out of her mouth she looked past him. “Forget it. I’ll try to hurry.”

“Alright, I’ll see you soon.”

*****

Ethan Rayne’s Apartment

“Drusilla what in the world are you thinking?”

Dru looked up at her father from her in the kitchen. “What?”

“What if William showed up here right this moment? How would you explain your not pregnant stomach?”

Dru ran a hand over her flat stomach. “I have nothing to worry about. Spike doesn’t know I’m here, and even if he did he’s to busy to show up here at the moment. I get tried of wearing that stupid fake belly, I miss my flat stomach.”

“I know how much you hate wearing the stomach, but you have to be careful. I called William last night to let him know where you were, and that you would be staying with me for the time. And that you would speak with him on Monday after you have had some time to think about things.”

“You told him I was here, after I asked you not to?” Dru asked with a raising voice.

“Yes. If he hadn’t of known where you were he would have eventual shown up here. And by the way you look right now it’s a good thing I told him what I did.”

“Fine. You did the right thing be calling him, but I have someone who knows where he is right now. Spike coming over here this morning is not a problem.”

“Where is he then? And who is the person who knows these things?”

“The person who knows is not important right now, but I’ll give you a hint. He knows Spike very well, and the young slutty Ms. Summers even better.”

“Alright. Now tell me where our young William is.”

“At her mansion. He spent the night with her.”

“How is that possible? William was looking for you all night after you ran out of the club. He even had Carter and Deacon helping him.”

“He was out looking for me most of the night. And he did have Carter and Deacon helping him, but he also had her with him.”

“And your person told you all of this as well?”

“Yes. He called me on my cell phone after he saw Spike leave our home with her. He called again after he followed them to her home, were ‘My’ Spike got out of his car and walked in the mansion with her. The same person called this morning to let me know that Spike was still at the mansion.”

“Why would your person follow William and this young lady around for you?”

“Simple really. He wants something that Spike has.”

“And that would be?”

“Ms. Summers.”

*****

Twenty Minutes Later- Summers’ Mansion

“I hope you don’t mind the outfit. It was either that or something from my closet.”

Spike turned to face Buffy wearing the black dress pants and white long sleeved button down shirt she had brought him from her father closet. “Its fine. Really. Although I am a bit curious as to what you would have me wearing from your closet.”

“Oh, I’m sure I could’ve found you a nice mini skirt and halter top to wear around the house until Maria finished with your actual clothing.”

“Think I’ll stay with your father’s clothes.”

“Why? You don’t feel like showing off and skin today?” Buffy said as she broke out laughing.

“I’ll let you show off all the skin if you don’t mind.”

Buffy immediately stopped laughing and looked over to Spike.

Spike re-ran the words he had just said over in his head. “That didn’t come out right.”

KNOCK. KNOCK.

“Come in. . .”

“Ms. Summers?”

“Yes Anna.”

“There is a young woman here to see you.”

Buffy looked towards Spike then back at the maid. “Who?”

“Um. She said that she was a friend of yours, and that it was important that she speak with you as soon as possible. She didn’t give me a name. I told her to wait in your father’s study.”

“Thank you Anna. I’ll be right there.”

“Yes, Ms. Summers.”

“Oh, Anna?”

“Yes?”

“Do you know when Maria will have Mr. Winthrop’s clothes finished?”

“I’ll go check for you right now.”

“Thanks.”

After the maid was gone Buffy turned to face Spike. “I should probably go find out who the mystery woman is.”

“Right. Do you want me to come with you?”

“It’s better if you don’t. Just in case. Um. Why don’t you go to the kitchen and get yourself some breakfast from The Cook, and I’ll join you after I find out what this person wants.”

“Good plan. I’ll see you in the kitchen.”
------------------------------------------------------------
Chapter 27

Summers’ Mansion- The Study

“What are you doing here?” Buffy demanded as she walked into her father’s study and towards the mystery woman.

“Good mornin’ to you to B.”

“It was ‘til you showed up.”

“I hurt you feel that way.”

“Cut the crap, and tell me what you’re doing in MY home.”

“Cute kid.” Faith said as she placed the picture she was holding back on top of the large oak desk. “Does she know what her sister is really like?”

“That’s way you’re here? To fine out what my family members think of me.”

“No. I thought that the two of us could have a chat.”

“We have nothing to ‘chat’ about.”

“That’s were you’re wrong. We have plenty to chat about.”

“If this is about Spike and myself, you’re to late. His wife already knows.”

“She doesn’t know everything.”

“She knows who her husband had an affair with. What else is there to know?”

Just then Spike walked into the study. “Buffy?”

“There’s this.” Faith replied as the bleached blonde entered the room.

Spike’s eyes widened upon seeing who was in the study with Buffy. “Ms. Wilkins!?”

“Spike what are you doing here? I told you to wait in the kitchen.”

“I came to get my car keys back.”

“B. I got to hand it to you. Sleeping with the married man even after his wife finds out its you.”

“I did not sleep with him Faith. If you haven’t noticed you’re in a mansion. It has eight different rooms to choose from. Not to mention the fact that there is a total of twelve over night staff members here on duty until 4am, when the full twenty-four daytime staff members arrive.”

“Ms. Wilkins what is it that you want?” Spike asked in his best ‘I’m an authority figure you will respect me.’ type of voice.

“Its simple really. I here to blackmail the both of you.”

“Faith did you not here me earlier? His. Wife. Already. Knows.”

“She doesn’t know about this, and I’m betting she doesn’t know about the little show the two of you put on in Professor Winthrop’s office a few weeks back.”

“That’s what you plan on blackmailing us with.”

“That, and if you don’t do as I ask I report the affair to the College Broad, the Mayor or as I call him Daddy, not to mention the publicity I could get from news shows and magazines.”

“You can’t do that. If you tell all those people, Spike is going to lose his job.”

“Then I really suggest you do as I ask.” Faith said, then turned and took the seat behind the desk. “Lets talk business.”
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Chapter 28

Loft Apartment

“I can believe she came to your house.” Cordelia said from her spot on the couch next to Buffy.

“She plan’s on blackmailing us, even though Drusilla already knows about me.”

“What’s she blackmailing you with then?”

“If Spike and I don’t do what she asks she’s going straight to her Father, and the School Broad with everything. The college will fire Spike if they find out, and I’m sure that the Mayor will do everything in his power to make it so that Spike can never get a teaching job anywhere ever again.”

“What does she want?”

[“What do you want Faith?” Buffy asked from her seat next to Spike in front of her Father’s desk.

“I want back what was mine before you and your family rolled into town.”

“Riley. . .” Buffy stated in a low whisper.

“It shouldn’t be to hard for you to let him go, it’s not like you love the guy or anything.”

Spike noticed the sadden look run across Buffy’s face before he finally joined the conversation. “What do you want from me?”

“What do I want from you Professor Winthrop? I want an ‘A’ in the class for the semster without doing any of the work, or having to actually be there.”

“Done.”

“That’s not all I want from you.” Faith said as she stood up and walked around the desk towards Spike, giving his body the once over.

“You BITCH!” Buffy shouted.

“I haven’t even said anything yet.” Faith stated while placing her hands on Spike’s shoulders and running them down his chest and back up again.

“Done.” Spike replied through a clenched jaw.

“Spike No.” Buffy pleaded. “She’s asking you. . .”

“I know what she’s asking Buffy.” He said, as he looked away from her, unable to see her with so much hurt in her eyes.

“So, we’re in agreements then?”

“What are the terms?”

“One night. You back out, I tell. I’m not completely satisfied, I tell.”

“Done.”]

“God! And you didn’t kill her right there?”

“I was in way to much shock to even say a word, let alone move.”

Cordelia turned to face Buffy completely now. “When’s the night?”

Buffy took a deep breath before looking towards Cordelia. “This Friday. . .”

RING RING/KNOCK KNOCK

Buffy climb off the couch and held out her hand to Cordelia.

“You get the phone and I’ll get the door.”

“Okay.”

“I don’t think this day could get any worse.” Buffy whispered to herself as she walked over and opened the apartment door.

‘I was so wrong.’ “Parker. . .”
------------------------------------------------------------------
Chapter 29

[Los Angeles- Last April, Summers’ Mansion

“Parker.”

“Hey Buffy.”

“What are you doing here?”

Parker walked into Buffy’s room closing the door almost all the way behind him. “One of your Maids let me in. I really need to talk with you.”

“We have nothing to talk about.” Buffy said as she walked over to the balcony doors and opened them.

“I know you’re hurt by what happened.”

Buffy turned back to face Parker with fire in her eyes. “HURT? You think I’m hurt? I’m not hurt, I’m pissed off. I’m pissed off that for the last three years I let you treat me anyway you wanted, all because I thought you loved me.”

“I did. I still do.” Parker said as he walked over towards where Buffy was now standing by her bed.

“So, me walking in on you and Lindsay was what?”

“That wasn’t what you’re making it out to be. It’s a simple misunderstanding.”

“Misunderstanding? Parker your whole entire Fraternity knows what the two of you were doing. The two of you caused some of the pictures to fall off the walls in the house. I may be blonde, but I’m far from stupid.”

“Buffy. . .” Parker whispered as he stepped closer to Buffy and placed a hand on her arm.

“Don’t touch me.” Buffy said before she pulled his arm from his hold and tried to move around him with no luck.

“Buffy.”

“I think you should be going.”

Parker pulled her into his arms and stated place kisses along her neck. “That’s not what you really want.”

“Yes it is. Leave now.” Buffy said while trying to push him away.

“I don’t think so.” Parker said while tightening his hold on her.

“Parker, you’re hurting me.”

“You use to like it a little rough.” Parker then pushed Buffy onto her bed and climbed on top of her, running his hands up her thigh as he went.

“Parker stop.” Buffy yelled.

“You want this. I know you do.”

“No. . .” Buffy cried as he pulled at her shorts.

“Yes.”

“Young Sir, I believe that the Young Lady said ‘No’.”

Parker looked over at the man standing in the door way. “This doesn’t concern you Old Man.”

The man walked further into the room towards Parker. “It’s my job to look after the safety of Ms. Summers, so this matter does concern me.”

Parker climbed off the bed and faced the older man. “What are you going to do about it?”

“This.” The man said right before punching Parker across the jaw.

The fight continued with a punch here and a punch there, never really resulting in a wining blow.

“HARRY!” Buffy screamed as Parker and her family’s driver went crashing onto the balcony.

The two men came stumbling back into Buffy’s room. Harry delivered a blow to Parker’s face, causing Parker to bring his hands to his face.

“You broke my nose.” He yelled at the driver before turning towards Buffy. “This isn’t over.”]

“Hello Buffy.”

“Buffy its Spike.” Cordelia yelled from her spot by the phone.

“Cordy tell him I can’t talk right now.”

“Sure. Who’s at the door?”

“A nightmare.” Buffy answered never taking her eyes off of Parker.

“Its good to see you too.” Parker said as he pushed past her and walked into the apartment. “Mine if I come in.”

Cordelia hung up the phone and walked over to the stranger. “Hi. I’m Cordelia Chase.” She said while holding her hand out.

Buffy pulled Cordelia’s hand away before Parker could take it. “Cordelia I think you should get Willow and Tara and get out of here.”

“What!?”

“Just do it. Please.”

“Buffy what’s going on? Who is this guy?”

Buffy turned to face Parker. “Cordelia Chase meet Parker Abrams.”

“As in?”

Buffy turned to face Cordelia. “As in my ex-boyfriend from L.A.”

“I’m glad you hold me in such a high regard Buffy. Telling your friends about me, I’m touched.”

Buffy turned back towards Parker. “What are you doing here?”

Willow stepped out of her room closely followed by Tara. “Buffy who was at the door?”

“Willow I think it’d be best if you and Tara left for an hour or two.”

“Why?”

“Because Parker and I have some things to talk about.”

“Parker? Why does that name sound. . .oh my gosh. Buffy I totally forgot to tell you that he called a few weeks ago.”

“You. . .You knew he was coming?” Buffy yelled.

“Yeah.” Willow answered in a weak voice. “He called but you were still asleep so I took a message and left it by the phone for you.”

Cordelia walked over to where the phone rested. “There’s no message over here.”

“It doesn’t really matter now, does it?” Buffy yelled back.

“Buffy I’m sorry I forgot to tell you about the phone call.”

“Willow, Tara could you guys go someplace for a while? Buffy really needs to talk with Parker.”

Tara took Willow’s arm and pulled her towards the door. “Sure. We were planning on going for coffee anyways. Do you guys want any?”

“No thank you.”

“Okay.”

After Willow and Tara were out the door Buffy turned towards Cordelia. “You should probably go over to Angel’s or something.”

“No way Buffy. I am not leaving you alone with him. Not after everything you told me about him.”

“Cordelia.” Buffy yelled.

“No.” Cordelia yelled back.
---------------------------------------------------------------
Chapter 30

Spike’s House

“You know she’s not going to talk to you.”

“She was just so hurt. You should have seen her face Carter. She wouldn’t even look at me afterwards.”

“What did you expect Spike? Did you really think she would be okay with this?”

“No.”

“It’s bad enough she can’t be with you, and to add this on top of everything.”

“It’s the only way.” Spike said as he stood from his spot on his couch.

“I know that. And you know that. But to Buffy. . .”

“I need to talk with her.” Spike said as he ran his right hand through his already messed hair.

“Try calling again.” Carter said while handing his cell phone to Spike.

Spike pushes the phone away. “No. I need to talk with her, face to face.”

“What about Dru?”

“I’ll figure that out when the time comes.” And with that Spike was out the door.

*****

The Magic Box

“Hello?” Drusilla asked into her cell phone from her seat at the table in the middle of the shop.

“. . .”

“He is?”

“. . .”

“Did he talk with Ms. Wilkins?”

“. . .”

“And?”

“. . .”

“Really?”

“. . .”

“And how did Ms. Summers react to this turn of events?”

“. . .”

“Prefect.”

“. . .”

“Yes. In no time at all.”

". . ."

“Call when he gets back.”

“. . .”

“Goodbye. Oh, and keep up the good work.” Drusilla closed her cell phone and turned to face her Father.

“Was that your informant?”

“Yes it was. Everything is playing out nicely.”

“What’s next?”

“A surprise ending.”

*****

Loft Apartment

“Tell me a reason why I shouldn’t have Cordelia call the cops right now.”

“Don’t really have a reason.”

Buffy turned towards Cordelia. “Call. . .”

“Other then the fact that if you call them I tell everyone your dirty secret.” Parker interrupted.

Buffy turned back to face Parker trying her best to hide her shock. “What are you talking about?”

“Sure you want to talk about it in front of her?”

“Hey!” Cordelia whined. “I have a name you know.”

“She already knows any thing you would think to be a dirty little secret. Why don’t you get to the point.”

“The point. Let’s just say that your friend Alyson is quite the talker when she’s been drinking.”

“What did you do to her?” Buffy demanded walking closer to where Parker was standing by the television.

“Nothing I haven’t done to you.” Parker said looking Buffy up and down with a grin across his face.

“You son-of-a-bitch.” Buffy yelled as she headed towards Parker, only to be stopped by Cordelia.

“Buffy you need to calm down. Going after him is only going to make things worse.”

“I love it when she gets fired up.”

Cordelia turned to face Parker, keeping a hold on Buffy’s upper arm. “Parker why don’t you just tell us what you want and get out of here before I let go of Buffy.”

Parker walked over to the couch and sat down motioning his arms for the girls to do the same. Once everyone was seated Parker began to speak again. “I’ve missed certain ‘parts’ of Buffy actually.”

Buffy stood up angrily. “NO WAY!”

Cordelia pulled Buffy back down onto the chair they were sharing across from Parker.

“What do you mean by certain ‘parts’ exactly?” Cordelia asked even though she already knew the answer.

KNOCK-KNOCK

“I’ll get it.” Cordelia said feeling the need to get away from the tension that was taking place between Buffy and Parker.

As Cordelia opened the door she came face to face with the only person who could make right now even worse.

“Spike, now’s really not a good time for you to be here.”

“I need to see her.”

Cordelia moved out of the doorway and motioned for Spike to enter. “Fine. Come in.”

Cordelia walked back into the living room with Spike closely behind. “Buffy, it’s for you.”

Buffy stood from her seat and turned towards Cordelia. “What?” Buffy then saw Spike standing off to Cordelia’s side. “What are you doing here?”

“You wouldn’t take my phone calls.”

“That’s because I didn’t want to talk to you.”

“I’ve heard that line before.” Parker said as he stood up as well.

Buffy turned to face Parker. “Shut up!”

“Who’s he?” Spike asked as he further enter the room.

Buffy turned towards Spike. “Spike this is Parker.” She then turned back towards Parker. “Parker this is Spike.”
----------------------------------------------------------

Chapter 31

Faith’s Car

RING-RING

“Faith speaking.”

“. . .”

“Friday night.”

“. . .”

“Where at?”

“. . .”

“What time?”

“. . .”

“Seven?”

“. . .”

“No. No problem. It’s just that, isn’t that kinda early?”

“. . .”

“I understand.”

“. . .”

“Everything will go as planned Mrs. Winthrop.” After the line went dead Faith turned off her phone and headed towards her dorm room.

*****

Loft Apartment

“So this is Spike?” Parker asked he gave Spike the once over before turning to face Buffy. “I really thought that you had better taste in men then this.”

“I dated you didn’t I?” Buffy bit back at Parker’s comment.

After a few moments of silence Spike finally spoke up. “Parker?”

Buffy and Spike locked eyes before all hell broke out.

“You Bloody Bastard.” Spike yelled as his fist hit Parker dead in the face.

“SPIKE!” Buffy screamed as Parker got a hit in on Spike.

The fight continued with punch after punch, and blow after blow.

“Spike stop.” Buffy pleaded.

“Cordelia help me.” Buffy demanded as she out herself in between Spike and Parker.

After both of the girls got the two men apart Spike looked down at Buffy. “What’s he doing here?”

“I didn’t know he was coming. Do you really think I would have let him near me if I had?”

Spike ran his hand down Buffy cheek. “Of course not.”

Parker stood up fully and approached Spike and Buffy. “I came to discuss a few things with Buffy.”

Spike moved so that he was in-between Buffy and Parker. “What would a wanker like you possibly have to talk with Buffy ‘bout?”

“Parker is here to make a deal with Buffy.” Cordelia said.

Spike turned towards Cordelia. “What type of deal?”

Cordelia just looked down at the floor, causing Spike to turn back towards Buffy. “What type of deal Buffy?”

“The same type of deal you made with Faith.”

“I won’t let you.”

“It’s not up to you. Parker knows about us.”

“How?”

“He got Alyson drunk, and she told him everything.”

“You still don’t have to do this.”

“Yes I do.”

“Buffy. . .”

Buffy turned back towards Parker. “Done.”
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Chapter 32

Loft Apartment

“Buffy hurry up or you’re going to be late for class.” Cordelia yelled through the door of her friends room as she gathered the things she needed for the day.

“I’m not going to his classes this week.” Buffy yelled back through.

Cordelia came to a stop in front of the door. “Why?”

Buffy opened the door to face Cordelia. “I just can’t.”

“Buffy. . .”

“Here.” Buffy said as she handed a few things to Cordelia.

“What’s this?” Cordelia asked as she looked down at the papers.

“It’s the two papers that are do this week for class. Will you turn them in for me?”

“Yeah.” Cordelia said while trying to figure out a way to get her friend to come to class.

“Thank you.” Buffy said as she gathered a few of her things into her purse.

“You can’t hide forever.” Cordelia stated knowing that Buffy was trying to do just that.

Buffy turned to face Cordelia. “And I won’t. But for this week. . .I just can’t see him.”

“Next week will only be harder for you. The aftermath and all of the situation is going to get to you and you know it.”

“Next week will be harder, but you can’t change the past.”

“You can change the future though.”

“Not this time.” Buffy stated as she looked around her room to make sure she had everything that she needed.

Cordelia walked over to Buffy and placed a hand on her arm. “I know you’ve made up your mind, and nothing I say will change it. I just want you to think about what you’re doing, what you’re really giving up before you talk with Parker on Wednesday.”

Buffy turned away from Cordelia. “I will.”

‘No you won’t.’ Cordelia thought but didn’t mention. “I’ve got to get going before I’m late.”

Buffy turned back towards Cordelia. “I see you later tonight then.”

“Are you absolutely sure about this?”

“It’s the only way.”

“Alright.”

‘It’s the only way.’ Buffy thought in her head as she watched her friend head off to class as she headed for her car.

*****

Lecture Hall-Professor Winthrop’s Class

Spike turned to face his class as he leaned against the desk in the front of the large room filled with chatting students. “I have an announcement to make before we start class today.” As the room quieted down he continued to speak. “I know that you all have mid-terms coming up in a couple of weeks, and because this is a freshman class these will be your first college mid-terms. You’re all probably a little on edge about this so I have made an important decision.” Spike handed a stack of papers to one of his T.A.’s to pass out to the class. “Next week you will only have class on Monday as you can see from the schedule that my T.A. is passing out at the moment. You will also see that the actual week of the mid-terms we will not meet.”

Spike took the extra copies and placed them on his desk before turning back to his students. “I expect all of you to be here for the class the following week however, and I also suggest that you be ready to take a quiz over the material that will be coved this week and next Monday. Does anyone have any questions about this?”

After a few moments of silence Spike continued to speak. “Alright. Let’s begin class.”

*****

Few Hours Later

“Professor Winthrop?”

“What can I do for you Ms. Chase?” Spike asked as he turned in the direction that Cordelia was standing.

Cordelia held out the papers Buffy had given her earlier. “Buffy asked that I turn today’s and Wednesday’s papers into you.”

“And way is Ms. Summers not turning them into me herself?”

“She won’t be back in class until next Monday.”

Spike looked down for a moment, then back up towards Cordelia. “Buffy’s going through with this isn’t she?”

Cordelia nodded her head yes. “She said that you can’t change the past.”

“What do you mean?”

“She told me that she couldn’t see you before any of this actually happens. I told her that it’s only going to be harder for her next week. That’s when she said that it would be, but you can’t change the past.”

“Why would she do this?” Spike asked.

“Why would you?” Cordelia asked back.

“It’s the only way.”

“The two of you were meant for each other.”

“When?”

Cordelia looked at Spike for a moment knowing full and well what it was he was asking. “I don’t know. Buffy’s suppose to talk with Parker on Wednesday to set everything up.”

“Is she meeting with him?”

“No. He’s said that he would call her.”

“Oh. . .”

“What about you?”

“Friday. Ms. Wilkins made an appointment with my secretary for this afternoon. I’ll find out than I s’pose.”

“What ever Faith may say to you or Buffy, this isn’t about getting Riley back anymore. This is about how much pain she can inflect on Buffy. She knows you’re the key to doing that.”

“Buffy has feelings for Mr. Finn, I could tell when Faith first told Buffy what she wanted.”

“You’re right, Buffy does have feelings for Riley in more than just a friend kinda way.” Cordelia stepped closer towards Spike and looked him directly in the eyes. “There nothing compared to how she still feels about you.”

“Am I interrupting something?”

“Drusilla. . .” Spike said as he and Cordelia stepped away from one another. “Ms. Chase could you. . .”

Cordelia looked towards Drusilla then back to Spike. “Of course. Here are the. . .”

“Right.” Spike said as he took Buffy’s homework from Cordelia. “Thank you.”

“Goodbye.” Cordelia gathered her things and headed towards the door giving Drusilla a somewhat dirty look. “Mrs. Winthrop.”
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chapter 33

Carter, Deacon, and Spike’s Apartment

KNOCK-KNOCK

Carter walked over and opened the door. “Buffy?”

Buffy looked up into Carter’s eyes. “Can I come in?”

“Sure.” He said as he moved aside in order to allow her room to pass. “Is something wrong?”

“Is Deacon here?” Buffy asked as she looked around the apartment she once loved to be in so much.

“Um, no he’s not. Buffy what’s going on?” Carter asked as he moved over towards Buffy.

“Did Alyson call him?”

“Yeah, he went to L.A. Sunday afternoon. Buffy will you tell me what has you so worked up?”

“Parker’s in town.”

“So?” Carter asked not really knowing who Parker was.

“He knows about the affair.”

“Who is he, and how does he know?”

“Parker is the guy I was dating before Alyson introduced me to you guys. We were together for a little over three years, and we had a bad really bad breakup.”

“Buffy. . .”

“He found out about the affair from Alyson.”

“So that’s way Deacon left.”

“If she called I’m guessing that would get him there.”

“What did he do?”

Buffy looked up into Carter’s eyes. “Parker just told me that she had to much to drink and she talked. I don’t know what he fully did to her, but I have a pretty good idea.”

“Is she okay?” Carter asked as he sat down next to Buffy on the couch.

“I really don’t know. I tried calling her but she kept hanging up on me. If she call Deacon, I’m guessing it’s on the side of bad.”

Carter pulled Buffy into a hug and ran his hand through her hair. Buffy moved her head into the crook of his neck and closed her eyes allowing Carter’s touch to relax her. A grin spread across his face at just how much Buffy really trusted him.

“Would you like it if I called Deacon and found out what happened with Alyson for you?”

Buffy nodded her head yes never opening her eyes, moaning a little when Carter moved away to make his phone call.

“Thank you.” Buffy whispered as she snuggled up into a ball.

“No problem.” Carter whispered back as he kissed her on the forehead. “I’ll be right back.”

*****

Los Angeles-Alyson’s Dorm

“Can I get you anything else?” Deacon asked as he placed a quilt over Alyson’s body.

“No, this is fine. Thank you.” Alyson said as she closed her eyes and went back to sleep.

“Are you su. . .” Before Deacon could finish his question his cell phone stared to ring. Deacon moved away from Alyson and towards the door. “I’ll be in the hallway if you need me.”

“Okay.”

Once in the hallway Deacon answered his phone. “Hello?”

“. . .”

“Carter. What can I do for you.”

“. . .”

“She is?”

“. . .”

“I don’t know why she wouldn’t take Buffy’s calls.”

“. . .”

“She’s not hurt physically.”

“. . .”

“No, I don’t think that she blames Buffy.”

“. . .”

“Yeah. Alright.”

“. . .”

“I’ll talk with you later. Bye.”

Deacon walked back into the room where Alyson was now sitting up in her bed.

“Who was that?”

“Carter.”

“What did he want?”

“He was calling for Buffy.”

“Oh. . .I didn’t realize that the two of them were still close.”

“Why don’t you want to talk to her?”

“I don’t want her to have to go through any of this again.”

“Parker’s in Sunnydale.”

“He’s going to use what happened here against her, and because she’s my friend she’s going to let him do what ever he wants.”

“I think you should call her, let her know your side of things.”

“She’s going to want to know if I blame her for this.”

“Do you?”

“No, but she will. No matter what I say.”


*****

Lecture Hall

“So. . .”

“You lied to me, again.”

Spike ran a hand through his hair for the hundredth time since Dru had shown up. “Nothing has happened between us.”

“You knew that she was on this campus. In my class room, in yours.” Dru yelled.

“She’s just a student.” Spike yelled back.

“Who you’ve had sex with Spike.”

“It’s the past. Why can’t you just let it go?” Spike asked in a lower voice as he stepped closer towards Dru.

Drusilla stepped away from Spike. “Cause you’re still in love with her.”
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Chapter 34

Carter, Deacon, and Spike’s Apartment

“What did he say?” Buffy asked sitting up as Carter walked back into the room.

Carter joined Buffy back on the couch. “Alyson wasn’t hurt physically, but. . .”

Buffy looked down at the floor. “Emotionally she is. . .”

“Yeah.”

Buffy turned back towards Carter. “Did Deacon tell you why she wouldn’t talk with me?”

Carter nodded. “Buffy this is going to be hard for you to hear.”

Tears began to form in her eyes. “Alyson blames me, doesn’t she?”

Carter pulled Buffy into his arms. “I’m so sorry.”

Buffy just clung to Carter as the tears fell freely down her face.

After a few moments Buffy pulled away from Carter and stood up from the couch. “I need to get out of here.”

“Where are you going?” Carter asked as he stood as well.

“I’m going to go from a drive.” Buffy said as she looked for where she put her car keys and purse at.

Carter walked over towards Buffy and turned her to face him. “Buffy I don’t think you should be driving right now when you feel this way.”

“I just need to clear my head.”

“Do you want me to come with you?”

“No, I’ll be fine alone.”

“Are you sure?”

“Yeah.” Buffy said as she walked out the door.

*****

Lecture Hall

“So what do we do now?” Spike asked.

“I’ll come by the house later and get some of my things and stay at my Father’s for a while.”

“No. You stay at the house, I’ll move back into the apartment with Carter and Deacon.”

“Alright.” Drusilla nodded as she looked away from Spike trying to hide the smile forming on her face.

“I’ll pick up some of my stuff around seven if that’s alright with you.”

“It’s fine.”

Drusilla started to head for the door stopping when Spike called out her name. She slowly turned back towards him knowing what it was that he wanted to know before saying a single word. “Just for a few weeks, okay? I need some more time to think about everything.”

Spike nodded his head in agreement. “Fine. I’ll just be a call away if you need anything.”

“I know you will.” Drusilla looked over to the clock hanging on the wall above Spike’s desk. “I have a class soon. I need to go.”

“We’ll talk later?”

“When you come by the house.”

“Right. Have a good class then.”

After Drusilla was out of the room Spike screamed at the top of his lungs.

“DAMNIT!”

*****

Hallway

Drusilla pulled out her cell phone getting ready to make a call when it began to ring.

“Hello.”

“. . .”

“What news do you have for me?”

“. . .”

“A new player in town? What’s their name?”

“. . .”

“Parker?”

“. . .”

“What are his plans?”

“. . .”

“Prefect.”

“. . .”

“Oh. Spike will be moving in with you for a few weeks.”

“. . .”

“Keep me updated.”

“. . .”

“Goodbye.”

Drusilla closed her cell phone and headed towards her classroom. ‘A new player in town. This should work out well.’

*****

Professor Winthrop’s Office

As Spike walked through the door his older secretary greeted him. “There’s a young woman waiting for you inside your office. I hope you don’t mind that I left her alone in there.”

“Of course not Mary-Anne. Thank you.” Spike said as he picked up his mail from her desk.

“Is it alright if I take my lunch break now?” Mary-Anne asked as she put a few papers into the out going box behind her desk.

“Sure.” Spike said placing his hand on the doorknob to his office. “You know what, why don’t you just take the rest of the afternoon off.”

“Really?” Mary-Anne asked somewhat in shock.

“Really. I’ll just be grading papers all afternoon, no reason for us to both to suffer through the pain of my students not really knowing anything that they write ‘bout.”

Mary-Anne quickly grabbed her things and headed for the door leading to the hallway. “Thank you Professor Winthrop.”

After Mary-Anne was completely gone Spike walked into his office and placed the papers and mail he was holding down onto his desk.

“That was nice of you.” Came from across the room, causing Spike to jump somewhat.

“Buffy!?”

Buffy stood up from the chair she was sitting in. “I’m sorry to just show up like this. I know you must be very busy, what with grading papers written by your students who know nothing about what their writing.”

“I didn’t mean it that way.”

“Yes you did.”

“Right, I did. What are you doing here?”

“You were expecting someone else I take it.”

“Not really.”

“Let me guess. Faith.”

“NO!” Spike answered a little to fast.

Buffy gave Spike a look telling him she knew he was lying.

“Yes.” Spike said as he looked away from Buffy.

“It’s alright. I know you have an appointment with her later.”

Spike turned to face Buffy again. “How?”

“I have my ways.” Buffy said as she took a seat in the chair behind Spike’s desk.

“And they would be?” Spike asked as he took a seat in one of the chairs in front of his desk.

“Mary-Anne told me when I showed up, that’s how I got to wait for you in here. It appears that your secretary doesn’t care for the young Ms. Wilkins that much.”

“Not many people do from what I’ve heard around these parts.”

“Can you blame them?”

“Guess not. Cordelia told me that you didn’t want to see me ‘til afterwards.”

“I didn’t.”

“So why are you here luv?”

Buffy took a deep breath before she began to speak. “Do you remember some of the things that I told you about Parker?”

Spike nodded. “How could I forget? Why do you ask?”

“Alyson called Deacon. He’s in L.A. as we speak.”

“Is she alright?”

“I think I know what happened after Parker got her to talk.”

“The same thing he would do to you after he had to much to drink?” Spike asked remembering the things that Buffy had told him about her relationship with Parker.

“Yes.” Buffy said in a low whisper reliving some of the moments over in her head.

“Have you talked to her?”

“No. When I called her last night she would only hang up on me. I went over to the apartment this morning to see if Deacon was there, that’s when Carter told me that he was in L.A. with Alyson. Carter called Deacon on his cell to find out what was going on for me. After he got off the phone he told me that Alyson wasn’t hurt physically, but that she blames me for what happened to her.”

“Why you?”

“Cause its Parker.” Buffy said as a tear ran down her face.

Spike walked over to Buffy and wrapped his arms around her holding her close to his body. “Buffy I’m so sorry, I know how close you and Alyson were.”

After a few moments Buffy pulled away from Spike just far enough so that she could look into his eyes.

“I don’t think I can go through with this.” She said in a low whisper.

“Then we’ll find another way.” Spike said reassuringly.

“How?”

Spike pulled Buffy back into his arms. “We just will.”

“And what about Faith?”

“We’ll find another way with her as well.”
------------------------------------------------------------------
 

Chapter 35

Campus Dorms

KNOCK-KNOCK

“Come in. . .”

“Riley?” Buffy asked as she walked into the seemingly empty dorm room.

“I’ll be right out.” Riley called from inside the private bathroom he and Angel shared.

Buffy was looking around the room when he finally came out.

“Buffy!”

Buffy turned to face Riley. “Hey.”

“What are you doing here? Not that I mind you showing up, cause I don’t. I missed you in class today. I everything alright?”

It took Buffy a few moments to take in everything that Riley had just said, but when she did she began to speak. “I’m fine. I had long weekend and wasn’t really in the mood for class today.”

“Oh. I didn’t see you at the after party at the Loft.”

“I know, I wasn’t really in the party mood. I went to my parent’s after everything happened at The Bronze.”

Riley noticed the way Buffy was looking around the room. “Is something wrong Buffy?”

Buffy sighed before looking back towards Riley. “In a way yes and no. I need to speak with you about a few things.”

Riley walked over to where Buffy was now standing by the windows. “You sound so serious.”

“What I have to say is serious.”

“Alright.” Riley motioned for Angel’s bed. “Why don’t you take a seat?” After Buffy was seated on the bed he took a seat on his own bed across from Angel’s.

Buffy locked eyes with Riley. “First I need to know something. . .”

“What is it?”

“I need to know. . .I need to know what feelings you have towards me.”

“Buffy. . .”

Buffy interrupted Riley before he could finish. “Wait. There’s something that I need you to know first.”

“Okay.”

“Riley I have a past. . .”

“Everyone has a past.” Riley interrupted with a smile on his face not full grasping that what Buffy was trying to tell him was really important.

“Not like mine.” Buffy looked away from Riley before she continued. “I’ve been through, and done things that I’m not proud of.”

Riley placed his hands over hers, which were resting in her lap. This movement caused Buffy to turn her head back towards Riley. “Buffy we’ve all had things happen and done things in our past that we wish we could change. These things shape who we will be.” Riley paused for a moment. “Buffy, your past doesn’t change the way I feel about who you are now.”

Buffy looked at Riley with a small smile on her face. “And how do you feel about me now?”

“That you’re a girl I could fall in love with.”

Buffy pulled away from Riley and moved away from the beds. “You don’t want to fall in love with me Riley. I’ll only hurt you in the end.”

Riley walked over towards Buffy. “Maybe you will, but I’m willing to give it a try.”

“Riley. . .”

Riley lightly placing his lips over hers in a slow and sweet kiss interrupted Buffy.

*****

Professor Winthrop’s Office

KNOCK-KNOCK

“ ‘S open. . .” Spike answered putting a mark on the paper he was reading to know where he stopped at.

“Professor Winthrop.”

Spike looked up from his desk. “Ms. Wilkins.”

“Not happy to see me?” Faith asked as she closed the door to the office behind her.

“Reason I should be?” Spike asked back.

“Guess not.”

“What’s the plan?”

“Right to the point, I like that in a man.” Faith said as she took a seat in front of Spike.

“I’m taken.”

“By more than one woman.”

Spike clenched his jaw. “The reason you’re here Ms. Wilkins.”

“Friday night at The Sunnydale Inn, room 213.”

“What time?”

“7:30”

Spike nodded his head. “Fine.” He then went back to his grading, noticing that Faith was still sitting across from him he looked back up. “You can go now.”

“There’s one more part to the deal.”

“What?”

“You have to stay the whole night.”

“Get out.” Spike said as he looked back down at the paper.

“Answer please?”

Spike looked up again. “Friday night, The Sunnydale Inn, room 213 at 7:30, the whole night. Did I miss anything?”

“Not a single thing.” Faith stood and walked towards the door. “See you then.”

Once Faith was out of his office he placed his head in his hands. ‘I hope Buffy understands.’
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chapter 36

Spike and Dru’s House-7:45pm

Drusilla stood in the doorway of her and her husband’s room as she watched Spike pack his things into a few bags. She had gotten a call from Ms. Wilkins telling her that everything was set for Friday night, and a call from Carter telling her that Spike had called to find out if it was all right for him to move back in for a few weeks. She had also talked with the woman who was pregnant with the child she was planning to pass off as her own earlier that day. The woman lived just outside of L.A. and was looking for some quick cash. Once every two weeks Dru would call to check on the baby. Today she found out that everything was going well, and in a few short months she would be able to pass off the baby boy as hers and Spike’s with no trouble at all.

The plan for how the baby was going to be born and made to look like Dru’s was all worked out as well. Dru would be going out of town with her Father for a shopping trip the weekend that the mother would be having a preplanned sea-section at a small hospital. Dru was paying off some off the doctors and nurses there to make it look like she had the baby herself when her husband arrived after getting a phone call from her Father at the hospital a week earlier than she was due.

The time it would take for Spike to get to the hospital from Sunnydale would give them enough time for the baby to have already been born. Causing Spike to miss the delivery of his son. Everything was worked out; now the only thing to do was to wait for the end of December to come.

Spike turned to face his wife once he had finished gathering his things, and everything was packed. “You have the number to the apartment, and my cell phone right?”

“Yes.”

“And you’ll call if you need anything, or anything happens?”

“Spike don’t worry so much. Besides my Father is going to stay with me while I take this time to think things out. I won’t be alone, and I will call you if I need anything.”

Spike nodded his head. “Right.”

“I just need some time.”

“I know. I’d better get going then.” Spike said as he walked towards the door stopping in front of Dru. “I love you.”

And with that he was gone, leaving Dru with a grin on her face. ‘This is so much fun.’

*****

Loft Apartment

As Buffy walked through the door and into the apartment she came face to face with her four roommates all sitting in the living room.

“Where have you been?” Cordelia demanded.

“I was at Riley’s. Why?”

“Buffy we think it only far that you tell us what’s going on.” Anya stated.

“What are you talking about? What’s going on?” Buffy asked as she stood in front of everyone.

“I’d like to know why Tara and I were ordered out of our home last night?” Willow asked.

“And I’d like to know why it is that every time you’re talking with Cordy and one of us walk into the room the two of you quite down immediately.” Anya demanded. “I thought I was your friend too.”

“Anya you are my friend.”

“Then why?”

“Cordy and my talking have nothing to do with you guys in any way. And for me asking you and Tara to leave last night I had a good reason for doing so.”

“Buffy that’s the problem, it my be a good reason but we have a right to know why we are being kicked out of our home.” Willow said in a slightly angry voice.

“Cordy do you have anything to say?” Buffy asked looking somewhat hurt by being attacked when she just got home.

“No. I just wanted to know where you were all afternoon. I was worried.” Cordelia stated.

“I’m fine. Really.”

“Are you going through with the plan?” Cordy asked knowing that the others wouldn’t know what she was talking about.

Buffy simply nodded her head yes before taking a seat across from Willow, Anya, and Tara who where on the couch.

“What plan?” Anya asked.

“That’s none of your business.” Cordelia told Anya.

“But it’s yours?” Anya bit back.

“Yes.” Cordelia simply stated back.

“Fine.” Anya said as she stood up. “If you need me for any reason I’ll be at Xander’s for the rest of the week.

Willow also stood up. “The same goes for me. If you need me you’ll be able to fine me at Oz’s.”

Tara was the only one who was still seated on the couch.

“What about you?” Buffy asked.

Tara stood up. “I’ll still be here, but I have to start studying for my mid-terms so I’ll be out late most of this and next week.” Tara started to walk towards her room but stopped and turned back to face Buffy. “He’s going through with it, just like you are.”

Tara left leaving both Buffy and Cordelia in shock as to what she had just said.
---------------------------------------------------------
Chapter 37

Carter, Deacon, and Spike’s Apartment

There was a light tapping on the door causing Carter to wake up from where he was napping on the couch after he had got Spike moved back into his old room. Carter walked over towards the door and opened it to reveal a dripping wet Buffy standing just outside.

“I didn’t know it was raining outside.” Carter stated as he moved to the side to allow Buffy in for the second time that day.

“It just started when I got out of my car. I think it was a sign telling me to turn around and go back home.” Buffy stated while trying to wring out her soaked shirt.

Carter notices the movement and walked her towards the bathroom door. “There are a few towels in there for you to dry off with. I’ll just go get you something less soaked for you to change into.”

“Thank you.” Buffy said before closing the door and pilling off her wet clothing.

A few moments later Buffy was free of her wet clothing and wrapped in an oversized fluffy towel that had been hanging on the towel rack behind the door. Buffy was running a brush she had found through her hair when there was a light knocking sound on the door.

Buffy opened the door all the way and placed the brush back down on the counter.

Carter couldn’t help but to take in the fact that Buffy was only in a towel, which was causing a hardening in his pants. “Um. If you give me your wet clothing I can go put them in the dryer for you.”

Buffy handing Carter the clothes, and tightened the hold she had on the towel after he took them.

“You can find something to wear in my room while I put these in the dryer downstairs.” Carter said as he moved away from the bathroom door.

“Thanks.”

Carter pointed Buffy in the direction of his room and headed for the apartment door grabbing a few quarters on his way out.

Buffy turned on the light to Carter’s room and took a moment to look around. ‘Hasn’t changed much from the last time I was in here.’ Buffy thought as she made her way over to the dresser that she knew he kept his boxers and t-shirts in.

Buffy picked out the smallest white mans shirt that she could fine and a pair of black boxers to wear and placed them on the bed. Buffy pulled on the pair of boxers and rolled them down a few times to help keep them from falling off of her waist and was about to put the shirt on when she heard a noise.

Not giving the thought to the fact that she was topless she turned to face where the noise had come from.

“Spike!” Buffy yelped as she quickly grabbed the shirt and pulled it in front of her.

“What are you doing here?” Spike asked trying to look everywhere but at her.

“I came to talk to Carter.” Buffy stated still holding the shirt in front of her body.

Spike walked into the room and towards Buffy. “Do you usually talk with Carter in his underwear?” Spike asked, as he looked Buffy up and down.

Buffy stepped away from Spike bumping into the bed behind her. “No. When I got here my clothes were soaked from the rain. Carter told me I could wear his until mine were done drying downstairs.”

“Oh.” Spike said as he came to a stop a few inches away from Buffy’s face. “That was nice of him.”

“Spike.” Buffy whispered as he lowered his head towards her capturing her lips with his own in a kiss that started out slow and continued to deepen until both Buffy and Spike had to pull away for some much need air.

“What was that for?” Buffy asked still holding the shirt in front of her.

Spike licked his lips. “Not sure really.”

“Oh.” Buffy stated before dropping the shirt to the floor and wrapping her arms around Spike’s neck pulling him back in for another demanding kiss.

*****

Laundry Room

Once Carter had all of Buffy’s things into the dryer he pulled out his cell phone and dialed Drusilla’s number.

After a few rings she finally pick up.

“Dru, it’s Carter.”

“. . .”

“Buffy just showed up.”

“. . .”

“I don’t know why she came back.”

“. . .”

“No, she doesn’t know that Spike is here.”

“. . .”

“I’m in the laundry room.”

“. . .”

“Buffy get soaked from the rain so I’m putting her things in the dryer for her.”

“. . .”

“I’m letting her wear some of my things.”

“. . .”

“He was asleep when I left.”

“. . .”

“What do you want me to do?”

“. . .”

“I can do that.”

“. . .”

“I’ll let you know how it goes.”

“. . .”

After Dru hung up on her end Carter put the phone back in his pocket and headed back for his apartment.

*****

Apartment- Carter’s Room

Buffy and Spike were so engrossed with each other that they never noticed Carter standing in the doorway of his room.

Spike had himself placed over Buffy’s body on the bed slowly kissing his way down her neck causing her to arch to the feel of him. It had been so long since the two of them had been this close. Sure they had had a few stolen kisses along the way, but none of that compared to how close they were right now.

Spike had removed the shirt he was wearing and tossed it across the room when he had first pushed Buffy down onto the bed. After a few moments he had managed to remove the boxers that Buffy had on. And now the two of them lied together on that bed naked and tangled with one another not caring about a single thing around them.

“Ahem. . .” Came from across the room by the doorway.

“Oh God!” Buffy whispered in a voice so low that she wasn’t even sure she had really said anything as she wrapped the sheet around her body while pushing Spike off of her. “Carter!”

“I’ll just wait in the living room for the two of you.” Carter said while placing Buffy’s newly dried clothes on the dresser, and then backed away from the door trying to keep Buffy from seeing just how hurt he really was.

“Bloody hell.” Spike said running a hand through his hair and climbing out of the bed to put his own clothes back on.

“Is that all you can say?” Buffy asked as she pulled her white tank top over her head and zipped her low-rise jeans.

“What else is there to say?”

“Oh I don’t know, how about something along the lines as how bad you feel about one of your friends walking in on you about to have sex with someone other than your wife in his bed.”

“Not much to say to that.”

“Ugh. Hurry up!” Buffy yelled as she walked out the door.

‘Get timin’ Carter.’ Spike thought as he followed Buffy out of the room.

*****

Living Room

“Carter I am so sorry.” Buffy stated as she walked over towards where Carter was seated.

“Don’t be.” Carter said as he stood up and turned so that his back was facing Buffy.

“Carter. . .” Buffy pleaded.

Carter turned back to face Buffy and now Spike. “I said, Don’t. Be.”

“No need to yell at Buffy for this.”

“I should yell at you then?” Carter questioned.

“You shouldn’t be yelling at anyone Man.” Spike calmly stated.

“I walk into ‘My’ room and see you about to have sex on ‘My’ bed with the woman I’m in love with.” The words ‘in love with’ were out of his mouth before he could stop himself from saying them.

“WHAT!?” Spike yelled.

Carter looked Spike dead in the eyes. “I’m in love with Buffy.”

Spike turned to face Buffy. “Did you know about this?”

Buffy looked between the two men before finally resting her sight on Spike. “Yes.” She stated in a low whisper.

“How long?” Spike asked through a clinched jaw.

“Since over the summer.” Carter added never taking his eyes off of Buffy who couldn’t look at either of the two men.

Spike was over come with the feeling of no longer being able to hold his own weight.

“Spike. . .” Buffy began, but stop as she saw the bleached blonde sink down into the chair he was standing by.

“Have the two of you. . .” Spike asked in a low whisper, regretting the question that had just come out of his mouth.

Buffy gave Carter a pleading look as if asking him to not say anything, but Carter ignored the look and stood up straight before answering Spike’s question. “Yes.”

“Get out.” Spike said never looking up.

“Spike.” Buffy pleaded one more time.

Spike stood up and turned towards Buffy. “Get your stuff, and get out.”

“She doesn’t have to go anywhere. This is my place too.” Carter stated.

Buffy walked over towards the door and grabbed her car keys. “No Carter it’s fine. Spike wants me to get out, than I’ll get out. I have a class with his wife tomorrow anyways.” And with that Buffy was gone, leaving to the two men that loved her behind.
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