Chapter 9

Jake wore a pleased smile on his face as he saw both William and Buffy walk in the pub together. They appeared to be laughing at something the other had said. It was better than he could have hoped for!

“What brings you two in here?” Jake asked as they reached him and perched on adjacent barstools. Adjacent barstools, he noted, not “separated by a chasm” barstools - better and better!

“Came in for a bit o’ lunch before we head out to Tintagel,” William replied.

“Oh?”

William cocked an eyebrow at that seeming enquiry from the barkeep. Realizing he’d seemed a tad too interested, Jake covered by asking what they wanted for lunch today.

“I’ll have a ploughman’s lunch and a pint of my usual,” William replied.

“What’s a ploughman’s lunch?” Buffy asked, her gaze inquiring as she glanced at William. Jake answered her.

“Basically, it’s a salad with lettuce, tomato, cucumber, the usual stuff you American’s like. It also has some ham, thick slices of cheddar cheese, a side of crusty bread, things like that.”

“Sounds yummy. I’ll have one of those too, but make it water for me.”

“You got it!” Jake walked off to get the order placed and came back with their drinks. They made small talk with Jake while they waited for their lunch.

“So, Jake, is there a place around her a girl can go to get her pictures developed? Normally, I do them myself, but I want to make sure they’re coming out.”

“Yep. Same town you got groceries at. I’m not exactly sure of a location, but that place is big enough to have a photo shop somewhere. If not that, the Boots should have what you’re looking for.”

“Ummm… Boots?” she asked, confused.

“Oh, sorry. It a chemist; you Yanks would call it a drugstore I think.”

“Gotcha. And that’ll be fine. Thanks!” she said, gifting him with a bright smile. A waitress brought out their food, effectively cutting off their conversation for now.

William watched as Buffy once again dug into her food. For such a tiny woman, she could sure put the food away. She must have a high metabolism. It was nice watching someone actually enjoy their food and not sit there and pick at it, claiming they were on a diet. Just one of the vast differences between his world and hers.

When they finished their meal, William pulled out his wallet to pay for the meal. Buffy beat him to it. She had her money out and snatched the check out of his hand.

“My treat,” she said saucily, throwing his words of yesterday back at him. “Besides, what good is the spending money they gave me if I don’t use it?”

“Buy yourself something with it. I’ll pay for lunch,” he said, attempting to snag the bill out of her hand.

“Ah, ah, ah.” Buffy held the bill behind her back out of his reach. He playfully moved to reach behind her and grab it, but she was faster, darting behind him and heading towards the register. He slid off the barstool and darted after, snagging his arm around her waist. She squealed, attempting to break his hold. She was determined to pay for lunch. Realizing she wasn’t going to get away from him, she folded over the arm banded around her waist, hiding the bill from his view.

“I’m paying and that’s final, William,” she said, laughing at their antics. They were making a spectacle in the pub, but she was feeling too carefree to mind. She was surprised at how quickly she had slipped into a joking and touching manner with this man she had just met, especially after the awkwardness of last night. It felt like she had known him forever based on the ease with which they were able to joke, the casualness of their touch. When had that happened? She pushed aside the thought for now, she could reflect on them later. Today, she was going to have fun without having to worry about the consequences. There’d be enough time to deal with those after her vacation ended. To the man behind the bar she said, “Jake, I’m paying for lunch. Don’t you dare take a dime from this overgrown Neanderthal.”

“Neanderthal? Neanderthal? I’ll show you Neanderthal,” he said in mock affront. Before she could realize his intent, he had her scooped off her feet, earning a squeak from Buffy. He tried to grab the check from her exposed position, but Buffy was faster. Quickly, she dropped the bill and her money on the counter by the register telling Jake to keep the change. Hah! She won.

William paid her back by carrying her caveman-style out of the pub. Buffy didn’t seem to mind, if her laugh was any indication. He joined in with her to the amazement of the few patrons. A few of the men gave good-natured catcalls and whistles as the two exited the pub. Jake watched their affectionate display with a growing smile on his face.

~*~*~*~*~

Once outside the pub, William set her back on her feet. Surprisingly, there was no awkward moment as their laughter winded down.

“Come on, Big Bad,” Buffy said as she looped her arm through his. “Let me get my camera so we can go visit King Arthur’s castle.” They made their way arm in arm back to the cottages. Buffy said that she’d be just a minute and dashed inside to grab her camera and some film. William leaned against his Land Rover and let his mind wander as he waited for her to reappear.

He was surprised at Buffy’s easygoing, affectionate nature. After the disaster from the night before, he figured that she would try to back out of their “date” to Tintagel. He had tossed and turned for most of the night, replaying the events in his mind. It was about two in the morning when William, with the aid of a good portion of bourbon settling in his stomach, was finally lulled to sleep. Even with the help of alcohol, he was still up as the sun’s rays crept across his window. Sighing, he rubbed his hands through his curling, bed-head hair and got out of bed.

Hoping to burn off some excess energy; he threw on some sweats and a well-worn t-shirt, grabbed his running shoes, and headed for the front door. He rounded the corner of the cottage and was met with a blue, spandex-clad ass pointing in the air as Buffy leaned over to stretch out her leg muscles.

“Mind if I join you?” he called to her.

Whirling around, hand clutching her chest, she hissed at him, “Damn, you scared me!”

“Sorry,” he replied innocently, hands raised in apology.

“Sure,” she said, answering his previous question. “How far do you want to go?”

“Five miles?”

“Ok.”

They had finished stretching then set out along the cliff path south towards Boscastle for their run, instead of heading down towards the beach. The view had been spectacular, and Buffy swore that she would get back here and wander this path at a much more leisurely rate so that she could take pictures. The place was beautiful and untamed, and Buffy was in awe. Her camera would be hard-pressed to capture the beauty before her.

She and William had settled into an easy running rhythm, neither having to shorten their gait. There was nothing worse for a runner than changing your stride to match someone else. It was a lot of work on the individual and made the workout extremely unbearable. ‘We fit, just like we did last night,’ she thought, then almost stumbled as mental images of William’s body leaning over her, kissing her senseless came to mind. ‘Ok, bad thoughts, Buffy. Let’s concentrate on the run and not his delectable body. Focus!’

After their run, they had gone back to their respective cottages to wile away the hours until their agreed-upon time to go to the pub. It had been the longest four hours of William’s life. After his shower and some breakfast, he had paced the cottage like a caged panther. He had tried to read, but even Shakespeare had failed to soothe him. Frustrated with himself, and his over-eagerness to see Buffy, he had plopped down on the cough and channel surfed for the next few hours.

Then the time had arrived, and he’d rushed next door like a pimple-faced teenager out for his first date. Shaking his head at the wanker he had become, he had knocked on Buffy’s door a few minutes before 11 o’clock. She had graced him with a smile as she opened the door, and he could have sworn his heart stopped for a moment. Clsing the door and locking it, Buffy walked beside him as they made their way down to the pub, exchanging small talk along the way.

“So there I was in my mom’s gallery, looking at this… what could only be described as a clay blob, and trying to appear impressed. How was I to know the artist was standing behind me when I made that comment? Needless to say, my mom was none too pleased. I mean, come on! Give me a little credit here, I was going to be a professional photographer, so I should know art when I see it, right?”

William just nodded in agreement, a slight smile hovering on his lips, waiting for her to continue with her story.

“So, I say: Mom, what’s with the kindergarten clay blob? Are we having a show for the local elementary school? When she didn’t respond, I glance over my shoulder to look at her, and she’s beet red, and looking like she’s ready to throttle me. Then, the artist,” at the word artist Buffy makes air quotes with her two hands, “steps from behind my mom all sputtering and pissed off. Reminded me of Napoleon. And, that set me off laughing. I didn’t think my mom’s face could get any redder than it was, but it did.”

By this time, William was laughing right along with her. They had reached the pub and were standing outside the door.

“So, what happened,” William asked, hand on the door.

“She made me apologize to the guy. But, when he left, she told me his stuff was crap and that she was counting on me to say something inappropriate so that he’d take his stuff and leave. Can you believe it? My own mother, using me like that,” she said, laughing now, caught up in the retelling.

William had just howled with laughter and opened the pub door, letting Buffy enter in front of him.

~*~*~*~*~

Buffy came out of her cottage with her camera draped around her neck. As she approached the Land Rover, William pushed up away from the car door. He walked around to the passenger side with Buffy and assisted her in to her seat before shutting the door. Walking back around to his side, he climbed in, then they were off for their short ten-minute drive to Tintagel to immerse themselves in the legend of King Arthur.

~*~*~*~*~

“Hullo?” a whisper-soft female voice answered.

“Hullo, Anne. It’s me.”

“How are things with William? Is he getting any rest? He seemed so broken when he called me a month ago. Although, he tried to keep it from me, sweet child that he is. Doesn’t want his mum to worry. But, I could tell.”

“Don’t you worry, Anne. The fresh sea air is working wonders on our boy. So’s the change of scenery. Honestly, why that boy lives in that sinful town is beyond me,” the voice ended, exasperation evident in that last line.

“That’s wonderful to hear, dear.”

“And, that’s not even the best part.”

“Oh.”

“If things go the way I’m hoping, you may have some grandbabies yet, Anne.”

~*~*~*~*~

The car trip to Tintagel was covered in a companionable silence. Buffy’s gaze was directed out the window taking in the sights as they made their short drive to “King Arthur” country. If she weren’t getting ready to start school in a week, she’d be tempted to move over here just to be surrounded by the beauty of North Cornwall. Somehow she had to make this place a regular vacation spot for her and Dawn once she graduated from college. Visions of sun-kissed light-brown hair and hazel eyes twinkling back at her brought a wistful smile to Buffy’s lips. God, she missed her! She mentally calculated the time difference and realized it would be way too early for her to call and check in. Maybe after her outing to Tintagel. With that thought in mind, she turned her attention to the scenery once more.

William drove the Land Rover with practiced ease. The short trip on this clear day used little of his driving skills, which allowed him to gaze periodically at the woman beside him. The quiet drive and companionable silence was nice; he was grateful that Buffy didn’t feel that she had to fill the void with incessant chatter like so many of the celebrities he had dated – the constant noise quickly getting on his nerves. And he marveled that this slip of a girl, woman, just seemed to match him in so many ways. Turning his thoughts from her as he reached Tintagel proper, he found a place to park to begin their afternoon sightseeing.

~*~*~*~*~

William pulled into the parking lot of the Visitor Centre of Tintagel. Jake had told him that it was built a few years back to provide tourists with information about the various things you can do and see while there. He figured that it would be a good starting place and Buffy could tell him some of the places she would like to see while they were here.

Buffy looked at the building they had stopped in front of and glanced at William inquiringly.

“Jake says it’s like a welcome center. Helps the tourists out deciding what they’d like to see and do while they’re here. I figured we could start here. You could pick out some places you’d like to see…” he trailed off.

“Sounds like a plan to me,” she said with a smile. William smiled back at her, then cut the engine. Quickly, he exited the vehicle before walking around to open the door for Buffy. She smiled at his gentlemanly gesture as she got out of the vehicle. William stiffened slightly in shock as she slipped her hand in his. He looked down at their clasped hands then back up at her hesitant smile. He smiled back then twisted the position of his hand to link their fingers together before starting out towards the Visitor Centre. Once inside, they parted; Buffy to go look through the various pamphlets, William to speak with one of the employees.

~*~*~*~*~

Deb had her nose buried in a pamphlet wandering around the Visitor Centre as she waited for her friend to get out of the loo. Suddenly, she crashed into someone and would have fallen to the ground if strong arms hadn’t grabbed hold of her. Mumbling an apology at her inattentiveness, she looked up at her would-be rescuer and her mouth formed a perfect “o” of surprise. Her eyes widened and her mouth attempted to work, but no words spilled from her lips as she gazed at the cerulean blue eyes gazing at her with concern.

“Are you ok, pet?”

His accented voice had her melting all over again and Deb was grateful his arms were still around her holding her up. Finally shaking herself out of her stupor, words of thanks finally left her mouth.

“Uh…yes…um, thank you, uh…Spike?” she answered tentatively. Her tone low enough to not be overheard by the other patrons.

Spike reacted as if struck. His hands abruptly left her body and a panic-stricken look came over his face. Damn! Just when he thought he could actually stop and enjoy himself, now someone had recognized him. Talk about luck! He cast a quick glance at Buffy across the room. Her nose was buried in a book and she was paying him no mind.

“I’m sorry,” the girl whispered to him. “It’s just the shock…I didn’t mean to…” She glanced around seeing if anyone else was watching them. Grateful that no one appeared to have noticed their exchange, she continued. “I don’t want to interrupt your afternoon. It’s just the last thing I expected when I bumped into someone was to look into the face of a man I idolize on the screen. And, oh God, did I just say that aloud?” She blushed a becoming shade of red, completely mortified. William, seeing that no one else was paying them any mind and that the bird wasn’t going to induce a crazed riot of simpering females, relaxed once more. Giving her a boyishly charming smile, he spoke again.

“What’s your name, luv?”

“Uh, Deb.”

“Well, Deb, I’m glad you’re ok. You are ok, right?” At her answering nod, he went on. “See, the thing is, no one here recognizes me, and I’d like to keep it that way if possible.” She just continued to nod, struck dumb that he was actually speaking to her. He was about to turn and walk away when she finally found her voice.

“Um, Spike,” she whispered. “Before you go, may I…have your autograph please?” He cast another quick glance at Buffy and noticed that she was still rifling through pamphlets. Noting the camera dangling from her wrist, he got the attention of one of the employees.

“Excuse me. You mind taking a picture of me and my friend here?” he asked the woman.

“Sure.”

William slipped the camera off of Deb’s wrist since a dazed look had come over her features and handed it to the employee. Slipping his arm companionably around her, he leaned and whispered, “Smile for the camera,” as he pointed in the direction of the person holding the camera. Shaking herself mentally, she gave him a quick smile before doing just that.

“Smile,” the woman said before she snapped the picture. Then, “Ok, one more, in case this one doesn’t come out.” Both people smiled again, blinking their eyes afterwards as the flash temporarily blinded them. The woman held out the camera and William took it, handing it back to a dazed Deb.

“Thanks,” he whispered as he leaned in to give her a peck on the cheek. “I appreciate you not saying anything.” Deb just held her hand over the place he had just kissed, nodding.

“Enjoy your visit. Oh, and check out St. Nectan’s Glen. They say the waterfall provides an excellent view, plenty of photo-taking opportunities.” She had noticed the pointed glances he had given the blond woman with the camera slung around her neck.

“Thanks. I’ll be sure to do that. Nice meeting you, Deb.” Then, with a smile and a wave, he turned and walked away. Deb just gazed back at him and sighed. She didn’t care if they did nothing else today, she’d had all the sightseeing she needed right here. She’d have to remember to tell her friend all about the encounter, but she’d wait until later. Her friend wasn’t known for her discretion and she wanted to make sure Spike was able to make a clean getaway before her friend started squealing.

~*~*~*~*~

Buffy looked up from a pamphlet about King Arthur’s Great Hall as William approached.

“’Bout set, pet?” he asked trying to usher her to the door.

“Uh yeah,” she replied hand him the pamphlet she had been looking at. “Can we start here?”

“Uh, sure.”

“Did the employees have any helpful information?”

“Uh huh, and it’s a surprise, so don’t even think about asking me about it,” he said with a boyish grin. Slipping his hand in hers, he led them to the exit, trying to put as much distance between himself and the woman he had bumped into. He was still slightly rattled about being recognized. I mean, what were the chances? He’s been growing his hair out to help disguise his appearance but she’d still managed to recognize him. He smiled at the thought. She was a right nice bird for keeping mum about him being there. Soon the Visitor Centre was left behind and they were driving towards their first destination.

Chapter 10

William parked the Land Rover and quickly exited it to open the door for Buffy. Opening her door, he reached his hand in to help her alight from the vehicle; he continued to hold her hand as he shut the door, using the remote to activate the locking mechanism. Hand-in-hand, they walked up the path to the first of their many sightseeing destinations.

King Arthur’s Great Halls was a huge stone building that was home to the Round Table made famous by King Arthur and his knights. Buffy gaped at the huge building and let go of William’s hand so that she could reach for the camera dangling protectively around her neck. She removed the lens cap, focused, and snapped a few shots before recapping the lens and slipping her hand back into William’s. At the entrance, William paid the cost of admission – a couple pounds for each of them – then led her inside.

Buffy’s jaw dropped, and she stood in the entryway gaping like a tourist until William broke her reverie by gently tugging her after him. Buffy hated to remove her hand from his, thoroughly enjoying the slight tingling sensation she was having as her hand nestled within his, but the sight of all those beautiful stained-glassed windows was too great a temptation to pass up.

With a wistful sigh, she looked up at his face. William could see her dilemma. He too hated to lose the familiar contact of her hand tucked within his. With an indulgent smile, he unlocked his fingers releasing her hand. He brought his hand up, tucking a stray lock of hair behind her ear.

“Take your pictures, luv,” he whispered softly. She gifted him with a hesitant smile, nodding. The shy, hesitant girl disappeared as she lifted her camera once more. The lens cap came off, and William watched as she walked this way and that, snapping pictures like mad. He followed behind her as she moved from one window to the next.

Buffy lost all track of time as she clicked away with her camera. As one roll of film came to an end, she quickly rewound it and loaded the next. She was oblivious to the inquiring stares of some of the tourists around her. William would sometime catch their eye and shrug as if to say, “Women. What can you do?”

She finally resurfaced after the second roll of film ran out. Realizing where she was, she glanced around mortified, unable to believe that she had completely zoned out like that and forgotten all about William. She almost slammed into him; he was standing right behind her, his penetrating gaze watching her like he’d rather be doing nothing else. A slight blush crept up her face.

“Uh… sorry about that. Guess I lost track of time, huh?”

“No worries, pet,” he said softly. He leaned his head down and brushed his lips lightly across hers. Before she had a chance to enjoy the contact, he was lifting his head and asking her, “All finished?”

“Huh…wha?” she asked, shaking off the delicious feelings coursing through her body at the slight touch of his lips on hers.

“Taking pictures. Are you all done?”

“Pictures… right! Yes, I’m all done.” She let the camera settle back around her neck and slipped her hand back in his. She was amazed at the ease with which she touched him. It was like she had known him for years, but in all actuality, it had only been a few days. He smiled down at her and together they walked over to where a small group was forming to watch the laser light show that was getting ready to begin. After the brief show, the two walked over to the gift shop. Buffy wandered around looking at the various gifts they sold. She didn’t really see anything that interested her.

“Ready, pet?”

“Yep! Where to now?”

“Well, it’s almost lunchtime. Why don’t we wander down this street and see if there’s a restaurant we can stop at?”

“Ok.”

The pair hadn’t walked far down Fore Street before Buffy noticed an art gallery called Silver Tree. Stopping before the window she asked him, “Do you mind if we go inside for a minute?”

“Not at all.” Together they walked to the entrance. William released her hand to open the door for her, placing his hand at the small of her back to allow her to precede him into the shop. The gallery catered to a local artist named Nicholas St. John Rosse. Oil paintings of the various sights in Tintagel were prominently displayed. Buffy wandered through the gallery gazing thoughtfully at the different scenes depicted in Rosse’s paintings: children playing on a pebbly beach, a woman poised at the entrance to a cave, cliffs rising majestically before the ocean. They didn’t stay long; Buffy sensed that William would rather move on. She had stopped more out of nostalgia than anything else, suddenly missing her mother and daughter.

Sensing her sudden melancholy mood, William asked her if she was ok. “I’m fine…it’s nothing, really. Come on…let’s go find us a place to eat.” A smile once more on her features, she led him out onto the sideway to resume their walk along the street. They window shopped as they walked, both pointing out things of interest. Soon, the delicious aroma of something cooking assaulted their nostrils. Mouths watering, they looked over and saw a quaint two-story, white building with a few people standing around.

“Crossbow Restaurant,” William read. “Sound good to you?”

“With those yummy smells…you betcha!” Grinning, she grabbed his hand and tugged him after her towards the restaurant.

~*~*~*~*~

“So…where to next,” Buffy asked as she sat back in her chair letting her food digest as they waited for the check to appear. The meal had been excellent; the place was obviously a popular spot among tourists and locals alike.

“It’s a secret,” he replied, his blue eyes twinkling.

“A secret, huh?” William just nodded, refusing to give away their next destination. “Ready?” he asked once the check had been paid.

“Yep, let’s go, Mr. Cloak and Dagger.”

“Cloak and Dagger?”

“Yeah. Mr. Secret-Keeping-Man.” She rolled her eyes at him, smiling. “That’s ok. Keep your secrets,” she said playfully.

“Uh…” William had gone slightly pale at her words. Buffy didn’t appear to notice.

“I can wait. Just don’t expect me not to nag you until we get there.” She looked up at him when she noticed that he’d gone quiet. “William?”

“Huh?” he mumbled. “Oh, right. Secrets…yep! No telling. And nagging will do you no good either, pet.”

She looked at him quizzically for a moment, but whatever emotion had lingered on his face a moment ago was gone. Brushing it aside, she wheedled, “Hints? Can I have hints?”

“Nope.” He quirked his eyebrow at her. “Do I need to blindfold you?”

‘Ooohhh, blindfold,’ she thought, her eyes glazing over.

‘Get your mind out of the gutter, missy,’ her inner-voice demanded.

‘Too late,’ she argued back, a slight smile playing across her lips.

“Buffy?” he called, his voice a little hoarse. William had to tamp down images of her naked but for a blindfold, sprawled on his bed as she waited for him to come to her. The smile on her lips promised so much – innocence, with underlying vixen.

“Blindfold? No… no blindfold. I’ll be good.”

‘I bet she will be,’ he thought. Shaking his head at his traitorous thoughts, he started off towards their next spot.

~*~*~*~*~

“Oh my God! It’s beautiful,” Buffy exclaimed at the sight that greeted her eyes as they passed the last curve on the trail. William had told her that they’d have to walk to where they were going, but that the path was well marked. Like a kid in a candy store, Buffy held William’s hand as they meandered down a well-worn path, following a small group of other people. The picturesque view took her breath away, and she could just imagine some wayward maiden of old wandering down this path as she was now.

Her trusty camera was quickly brought up to her eye and a series of pictures were snapped of the 60-foot waterfall crashing down amongst the rocks. When she was finished, she lowered her camera and just stared at the scene before her. She doubted her camera had been able to capture the peace and serenity of this glen; the place was just too magical – as if all your worries faded away leaving just a sense of calm that wraps itself around you, leaving you rested and revitalized.

William walked up to her as she gazed out over the lake, slinging an arm around her shoulder and pulling her to his side. She leaned into him, resting her head against his shoulder. Together, they watched the waterfall; listened as the water crashed over the rocks before sliding into the lake. There were no loud shouts by fellow tourists, just whispered murmurings of a few people around them.

“Peaceful, isn’t it,” an elderly gentleman spoke standing next to them. Beside him stood a woman – probably his wife. His next words confirmed her identity.

“We come here every year, my wife Edith and I. Recharges the batteries, you might say. Right romantic too,” he said, wiggling his eyebrows in an exaggerated manner.

“Oh, Harold…stop,” Edith chided, slapping him lightly on the arm. You could see she really didn’t mind his words, however. Buffy and William just smiled at the elderly couple’s antics. Turning to the young couple Edith asked, “Say…would you mind taking a picture of us?” She held out a small camera towards them.

“Buffy here’s the photographer,” William said, pushing her slightly in front of him, “She can do it.”

“I’d be happy to,” she replied, smiling. “Right here?” she asked, gesturing to the couple. They nodded.

“Ok…smile for the camera.” On cue, the couple smiled, and Buffy snapped their picture. “Ok, one more…say cheese.”

“Cheese,” they chorused.

Click.

“Here you go,” she said, handing the camera back to the woman.

“Thank you, dear,” Edith replied. “Say…you want me to take a picture of you and your beau?”

Buffy looked at William. “Uh…”

“We’d be delighted,” William said coming forward. ‘Where the bloody hell had that come from?’

“Harold, dear, why don’t you take their picture?” Edith said. Buffy handed Harold her camera, giving him a quick rundown of how the complicated piece of equipment worked.

“You sure about this,” Buffy asked William as she came to stand before him, looking up into his eyes. The waterfall made a nice backdrop behind them. William looked down at Buffy, tucking a stray lock of hair behind her ear. He gave her a slow nod then leaned down and gave her a soft kiss that was over before it began. Neither realized as Harold held the camera to his eye, inadvertently taking their picture as his hand rested on the button – took several actually as the shutter speed was set rather high.

“Not yet, dear. They’re not looking at you,” Edith commented as she heard the camera clicking away.

William couldn’t resist the fetching picture Buffy made – eyes closed, bemused smile on her face as she licked her lips – and cupped her jaw with both hands as he lowered his head to brush his lips over hers again. A sigh escaped her lips at the feel of his lips returning to hers once more. Realizing this wasn’t the place for him to do what he really wanted: namely, ravage her mouth – he broke their kiss and turned towards Harold who was waiting patiently to take their picture.

“Time for our photo op, luv,” he said softly to her, turning her slightly and pulling her next to him. He mentally kicked himself for using that particular term but she didn’t seem to notice.

Handling the camera like a seeming pro – never mind the five shots he had already taken as he attempted to process the young woman’s directions on how to work the camera – Harold called out, “Ok…smile for the camera.” William, with his heart hammering inside his chest at the thought of being in front of the camera again, managed to pull off looking like he was happy to be standing next to Buffy while his picture was taken; Buffy, confused as to why William wanted a picture of the two of them together, managed to smile prettily back at Harold. She mentally cringed as she heard the shutter close several times as Harold held his finger depressed on the button. ‘Well, if nothing else, there’ll be plenty shots to go around.’

Finally, he lifted his finger and announced somewhat proudly, “There you go, young miss. A nice, pretty picture in front of the waterfall.”

Smiling back at the nice, old man, she stepped out of William’s embrace and went to retrieve her camera, thanking the couple for taking the time to stop and chat with them. William walked up behind her, shaking hands with Harold as he told them goodbye. Buffy waved goodbye as Harold and Edith wandered off.

“Ready to go, luv?”

“Uh huh. Where to now?”

“What say you to a little hike?”

“A little hike?” she asked, skeptical.

“Well, it’s scenic…” he trailed off. “A great photo opportunity?” His expression was hopeful. “There’s a castle,” he tempted her.

Buffy bit her lip to keep from laughing at his boyishly endearing look. “Fine! Lead the way.” William grabbed hold of her hand and led her along the path that paralleled the stream leading to Rocky Valley. They took their time, pausing to look at the different kinds of foliage. Or, when Buffy wanted to take some more pictures. The only sounds heard were the rushing waters of the stream, the occasional bird call, and the click of her camera’s shutter. She had gone through another roll of film on the walk alone.

As they reached the base of Rocky Valley, Buffy ground to a halt, inadvertently causing William to stumble at the backlash since he was still holding her hand.

“William…” she trailed off, entranced.

He looked at Buffy as she gazed around at the splendor before her. What was it about this girl that could wipe away his cynical nature and allow him to see the world through her innocent eyes? He couldn’t help himself; he had to touch her. He raised a hand, allowing it to trail down the side of her face before he brought his other one up so that his hands could cup either side of her face, tilting it up as he lowered his mouth to hers.

“Buffy,” he whispered, before his mouth settled on hers. Her lips parted on a sigh that could have been his name. Her hands came to rest on either side of his waist as he deepened the kiss, his tongue slipping inside her mouth to renew his acquaintance with the contours of her mouth. The roof of her mouth, the contours of her teeth, her own tongue – all were privy to his tongue’s exploration. Heads tilted allowing each of them better access. The kiss could have gone on indefinitely and neither would have minded, but being out in public where anyone could come along wasn’t exactly the place for a thorough exploration. With a reluctance he felt to the marrow of his bones, William pulled away from her mouth.

Her eyes were still closed as she licked her lips, as if that act alone would allow her to still taste him there. He couldn’t resist a repeat performance; the innocent gesture increasing his ardor to near breaking point. This was no gentle kiss the second time around. His lips swooped down, possessively, settling over hers with searing intensity. His tongue swept inside her mouth to do battle with her own, teeth meshing under the onslaught. Her knees went weak as he ravages her mouth so that she had to sink into his embrace to remain upright. The hard bulge pressed intimately against her stomach proved that he was as affected by their kisses as she, causing a groan to erupt from her mouth to be swallowed by his own.

The noise broke through the spell weaving around the two as they stood there at the base of the valley. Reluctantly, he tore his mouth from hers. Resting his forehead against hers, he sucked in huge gulps of air in an attempt to cool his raging desire. Feeling somewhat in control, he lifted his head to look down at her. The emotions swimming in her hazel orbs astonished him and he had to wonder if his own gaze mirrored his feelings. Somehow this slip of a girl had managed to worm her way into his heart. How she had done it in so short a time, he had no idea. He was too much a cynic to believe in love at first sight. But, when he gazed down in the fathomless depths of her eyes, he could almost believe in it.

All he knew was that he wanted to be with her. This girl. She made him happy like no other person ever could.

With a quick peck to her slightly-parted lips, he pulled back allowing her to look around.

She gaped at the awe-inspiring scene before her and momentarily wished that she were a painter so she could catch the scene on canvas. Where they stood, she felt like she and William were the only two people on Earth. His Adam to her Eve. Steep cliffs formed of jutting rocks and lush greenery rose in some instances almost perpendicular to the ground. A narrow trail wended its way upward through the cliffs. Living in Sunnydale had never afforded her a view like this and she once more pulled her camera up in an attempt to record the moment.

Another half-roll of film later, and she was ready to start her trek to the top.

She didn’t bother to question herself as she slipped her hand back into his. She craved the contact like a starved man does water. She ignored her inner-voice that taunted that she barely knew this man and yet shared a familiarity with him that surpassed what she ever had with Angel. It was like William could see into her soul, and she his.

Shaking aside her fanciful notions, she turned her attention to the steep climb ahead of them.

~*~*~*~*~

It was late afternoon when the two finally crested the path leading to the ruins that once comprised the legendary castle. Neither had noticed the overcast sky that had descended as they made their trek up the towards King Arthur’s Castle. The two wandered around, Buffy snapping random pictures, as the crowd slowly thinned out due to the lateness of the hour.

They slowly meandered to the edge of the cliff, towards a trail that led down to Merlin’s Cave. As they started down to the caves, they watched as a small group slowly made their way up towards them. As the two groups passed one another, they exchanged greetings, neither stopping as the groups walked towards their destination.

When they reached the bottom, Buffy looked around. No one else appeared to be with them. As thunder rumbled in the distance, she looked skyward. Moments later, it was as if the sky just opened up and deluged the two with rain. Buffy covered her camera as William grabbed her hand and raced towards the caves. Even with the short distance they had to go, by the time they reached the inner sanctum of the cave, both were completely drenched.

Buffy’s camera was saved since she had thought to tuck it under her shirt, sparing it from the brunt of the storm.

The two wandered deeper into the caves, attempting to see if they were alone or if someone else was unlucky enough to get caught with them. After about twenty minutes, William concluded that they were alone.

Glancing over at Buffy, he noticed her shivering in her damp clothes. She was rubbing her hands together in a desperate attempt to get warm. Figuring they were going to be stuck there for awhile, William had her sit down on a rock while he went in search of something he could use to build a fire. He was secretly grateful for the lighter he always carried, even though he had quit smoking a while back.

After an extensive search of the cave, he was able to gather a substantial amount of broken branches – enough to sustain a fire for a few hours to get them warm and hopefully dry their clothes out some. He also found a little niche that would provide a modicum of privacy since he planned on making her strip to her knickers. He got the fire started, thankful that the cave had a high ceiling clearance to allow the smoke to filter up and away from them. Making sure that there was no chance of it spreading, he got up and walked back to Buffy.

He rushed to her side when he saw her huddling in a ball, her knees drawn to her chest in an attempt to get warm. Her teeth were clattering; her lips tinged a light purple.

“C’mere, luv,” he urged, grabbing her hand and pulling her from her perch on the rock. “Let’s get you warmed up in front of the fire.”

“A fire,” she whispered, her voice hopeful.

“Uh huh.” Quickly, he pulled her behind him towards the welcoming warmth of the fire. He had placed it in the middle of the cave so that the rocks that jutted on one side provided a privacy barrier for them to huddle behind. It also helped to block the heavy wind that was blowing around them.

Once they were before the fire, William pulled the camera from around her neck and placed it on a rock. As he walked back to her, he noticed her teeth were still chattering, but she had her hands out in front of the fire in an attempt to get warm.

Stepping up behind her, he put his hands on the bottom of her shirt and pulled it over her head. She voiced no objection, just huddled as close to the fire as she could get. He laid her shirt flat on the rock that afforded them privacy, allowing the heat from the flames to start drying the garment out. He lifted his own shirt over his head and did the same. He made his way back to Buffy and knelt before her, untying her shoes before slipping each one off, along with her socks. He laid the socks out on the rock, leaving the shoes to rest at its base. He quickly pulled his own shoes and socks off.

Returning to Buffy yet again, he stood behind her and wrapped his arms around her, rubbing his hands vigorously up and down her bare arms allowing the friction to help warm her. When her persistent teeth chattering stopped, he dropped his hands to her jeans and undid the button then lowered the zipper. Wet jeans are a pain to pull off, but he had them down around her ankles before she thought to protest.

Kneeling before her again, he whispered up to her, “Step up, luv.” Buffy steadied her hands on his bare shoulders and lifted first one leg and then the other, standing before him in nothing but her matching bra and panties. Her pants followed the same path as their other clothes; Spike left his own jeans on. He figured now was not the time to let her know that he didn’t bother with underwear.

He walked back towards the fire, pulling her into his arms so that her back was to the fire. He ran his fingers through her hair trying to remove the excess water from it. He pulled her close, rubbing his arms over her body, attempting to warm her as much as possible. A final shudder escaped her body as his fingers and the fire worked their magic on her.

Outside the rain ravaged the countryside.

‘Looks like we could be here for awhile,’ William thought to himself.

Silently, he pulled her after him as he sat down and leaned back against the makeshift rock wall. She settled on his lap, curling into his body to try and claim some of his body heat. He wrapped his arms around her and pulled her close, his hands never stopping as they roamed over her body, seeking to warm her.

Buffy just burrowed closer to him, practically purring her contentment as his hands rubbed briskly over her exposed body. Leaning her head against his shoulder, she gave herself up to the pleasure of his hands running over her skin.

As the urgency of the situation eased, it suddenly dawned on William that he held a practically naked Buffy in his arms. As his body responded to the feel of her sprawled in his lap, his touch on her body changed. No longer was he brusquely rubbing his hands over her body. Now, a lover’s touch whispered across her flesh. The change of his caress had her moaning against his throat, her warm breath sliding over his neck caused an instant response from him.

He shifted her body so that she straddled his lap, her arms looped around his neck to hold him tightly to her. Buffy moaned low in her throat as she felt the bulge in his pants through the thin layer of her thong. She used her knees to raise her hips up to slide along his hard length once…twice. The third time, William crushed his lips to hers eliciting a moan from her mouth. He quickly took advantage, thrusting his tongue inside to plunder her mouth. His hunger fueled her own, and she used her tongue to duel with his before thrusting her own inside his mouth to trace the contours of his teeth, the roof of his mouth. Her aggressiveness pleased him and he broke their kiss as his lips blazed a path down her neck, her head falling back to allow him easier access.

He leaned forward, inviting her to lie back against his outstretched legs. She was helpless to resist him, caught up in the delicious feelings of his hands and mouth as they swept down her arms, over her stomach, up her legs. Her body was the piano his hands played to perfection. Buffy gave herself up to his ministrations, for once, just allowing herself to be swept away by the feelings coursing through her small frame.

Sensing her acquiescence emboldened William to allow himself to let go, to pleasure her like he had wanted to do last night. His lips trailed a path to where her breasts were covered by a scrap of blue lace. He closed his mouth around one hardened nipple through the material causing Buffy to moan as her upper body shot off his legs, her hands tightening around his neck to hold him close. As if he was going to go anywhere…

“Oh God…William,” her voice broke.

“Like that then, pet,” he questioned softly. He raised his eyes to her face, his mouth never leaving the treasure he had found. He watched as her mouth opened and closed, trying to wrap itself around a few words, but in the end all she could do was moan as she vigorously nodded her head. With one hand around her back for support, he used the other to slip the straps of her bra off her shoulder, making it easier for him to pull the scrap of lace down to expose her hardened nub for his delight.
He eyed the front clasp of her bra for a moment before using his tongue and teeth to open it. The clasp gave way, but the material held fast, cupping her breasts like a duenna intent on keeping her charge safe. Using his free hand, he slipped one side of the material away, exposing her to his heated gaze.

“Beautiful,” he whispered before cupping her with his hand and squeezing slightly. His thumb ran back and forth over the beaded points, causing another ragged moan to slip forth past her lips as she clutched him to her tightly. Deciding that he’d tortured her long enough, he lowered his head and took her into his mouth. If she thought his hands felt good, his mouth was downright sin. The things his tongue was doing to her…

An answering throb was radiating from her sex, demanding attention. It was as if he could read her mind. As his knuckle passed up and down where her panties covered her deepest secrets, she thought she would explode right then.

“Please,” she whispered, his hand and mouth had her poised on the edge of what…she wasn’t quite sure. The sensations he was evoking from her body were stronger than anything she had ever felt before. She knew something was out there and that William could give it to her.

“Please,” she whispered again. Her head was thrashing side to side, her body strung tight as it demanded release.

It was the second “please” that did it for him. With a last scrape of his tongue across her nipple, he lifted his mouth away from her. Gently, he rolled her to her back, making sure the sand wasn’t too hard on her exposed skin. He quickly shucked his jeans before kneeling between her parted thighs. He murmured softly for her to lift her hips and in a flash, the thong was gone.

He stretched out on top of her, getting her accustomed to his body. Her body was strung tight, awaiting release.

“Buffy,” he called softly. “Open your eyes. Look at me.” His hypnotic tone had her fluttering her lashes open to lock her gaze with his. The desire he saw reflected in her eyes nearly brought him to his knees. She gazed up at him as if she were almost unsure of the feelings coursing through her body, but instinctively trusting him to see her to the other side. The thought was humbling.

“Are you sure?” he asked. As much as it would probably kill him, he’d stop if she asked. Her nod had him leaning down and gifting her with a gentle kiss, a mere brush of his lips across her own.

The slight delay had caused the fires raging through body to become banked, and William set to the task of stroking them to an inferno once more. He shifted down her body until his face was level with the coarse curls covering her sex. His tongue darted out, eager to taste the drops glistening before him. Once wasn’t enough, and he laved his tongue over her again and again. Up and down her slit his tongue went, before finally plunging inside. Her hips came off the ground, her hands holding him in place. He sucked and nibbled and sucked some more before moving his tongue up to flick against her clitoris.

“William,” she hollered, bucking her hips up against his mouth. Her fervent cry was music to his ears.

“Please,” she moaned, desperate to be relieved of the tension that had her body strung tighter than a bow.

Sliding back up her body, he positioned himself at her entrance.

“Wrap your legs around me,” he urged. Buffy eagerly complied. Leaning slightly to the side, he ran the head of his cock up and down the length of her slit, coating it with her juices. When it was good and slick, he pushed his way forward into her welcoming heat then withdrew. He repeated the action, going a little deeper this time. Again he withdrew, only to slip back inside, further this time. He penetrated her slowly until she took him to the hilt. When he was buried so deep his pelvic bone brushed her clit, they let out mutual groans of satisfaction.

“Hold tight, luv,” was the only warning Buffy got before William pulled almost all the way out of her before plunging back into her depths. Over and over, he drove into her, the mewling cries and keening trills urging him on.

“That’s it, baby. Squeeze me tight… Like that do ya?” he practically purred. Then, “Oh God… Buffy… feel so good…so tight…” as the sensation of her inner walls quivering around his cock caused him to pump faster, harder.

“William…” she shouted, lights exploding behind her closed eyes as the tremors radiated from her core and spread outward to her limbs. The sensation was like nothing she had ever imagined – something she surely hadn’t experienced with Angel.

“That’s it, luv. Fly with me.” All thoughts of finesse left him as her orgasm hit, coating his cock with her juices. Lifting her hips slightly, he pounded into her body, her inner walls milking him, thrusting him over the edge after her.

“Buffy…” he shouted as he came. Copious amount of fluid filling her channel as his cock pulsed within her.

With a final shudder, he collapsed on top of her, replete. Buffy wrapped her arms around William, holding him tightly to her slick body. The sound of their heavy breathing and the crackling of the fire the only noise to compete with the storm outside. Figuring he had to be getting heavy, he rolled to the side. Before Buffy had a chance to moan at the loss of contact, he had her snuggle up next to him, her head pillowed on his arm.

They lay there in each other’s arms, both reeling from what they had just done.

Chapter 11

Little things slowly pierced Buffy’s awareness as she lay there, held tight in William’s arms: the sound of thunder and lightning in addition to the pounding rain taking place outside the cave, the crackling of the fire as it heated her bare backside, the hard ground they both were currently sprawled naked upon but were too sated to care, the feel of his fingers trailing up and down her back causing gooseflesh to break out along her arms.  She closed her eyes and snuggled closer to his hard chest, smashing her breast flush against him.

He sighed and held her even tighter, afraid that if he didn’t do so, she would slip away from him.  Afraid that she’d come to regret what they had done as the heat of the moment faded and reality began to intrude. 

Regret happened to be the furthest thing from his mind as William held her body close to his while nuzzling her hair with his nose.  He couldn’t say when he had ever felt this relaxed.  Even though they had just recently met, it had seemed as if their bodies had always known each other…coming together in a dance lovers had been perfecting for eons.  They were ideally matched in every way and he never wanted to let her go. 

They held each other, too worried to give voice to this sudden change in their relationship, as if to say anything would suddenly break whatever spell that had been spun around them.  For now, they did nothing…just listened to the sound of the rain as it continued to beat against the ground.  The fire kept them warm as they nestled, naked in each other’s arms.

~*~*~*~*~

As with all things, the pounding rain finally slacked off before settling on a slight drizzle.  William glanced down at Buffy and noticed that she had drifted off to sleep, curled trustingly in his arms.  Not wanting to wake her, but needing to check on the status of their clothes, he gently eased out from under her.  She moaned softly in her sleep but didn’t awaken.

He retrieved his damp jeans from where he had discarded them earlier and slipped them over his lean legs, grimacing a bit as the cold, wet material covered his groin.  He crossed to where Buffy’s clothes lay (hopefully) drying on the rock.  He fingered her undergarments and notice that the heat from the fire had completely dried them; her shirt also happened to be dry.  Her jeans were still slightly damp, but would be ok for her to wear.  Besides, it was still drizzling out, so her clothes were bound to get wet again, anyway.

William grabbed his shirt off of the rock and drew it over his head.  Leaning against the rock for support, he grabbed one of his socks and slipped it on along with one of his shoes, before pulling the other sock and shoe on.  Dressed, he jogged to the cave entrance to take a look outside.

Dark clouds loomed on the horizon, but if they hurried, they could make it back up the trail that led to his Land Rover before the storm picked up force again.  They just needed to leave…and soon.  Disappointment churned in his stomach when he realized that he would have to wake Buffy up and rush to get her dressed so that they could make a swift departure before the rain started back up again.  Personally, he would have liked nothing better than to spend more time with her, perhaps exploring her body more leisurely.  But, Mother Nature was not to be reckoned with, and he didn’t fancy spending the night in a damp, dark cave in cold, wet clothes.

He hurried back to Buffy, grabbing her clothes off the rock along the way, and knelt beside her.  He dropped her clothes so he could pull her up in his arms, brushing off some of the sand that still clung to her bare skin.  She moaned in her sleep and curled trustingly in his embrace. 

“Buffy, luv, ya gotta wake up,” he spoke as he pushed her hair back from her face.  Her hair had started to dry in stringy strands against her face.  She looked like a drowned rat, but rather than looking horrible, she just managed to look adorable.

“Hmmmm….” she moaned, still half-asleep.

“We’ve got to get out of here.  There’s a lull in the storm and if we hurry, we can make it back up the trail to the Land Rover before we’re bombarded again.”

He watched as her eyes opened, a slight frown marring her features as she concentrated on his words.  He knew the moment she realized where she was and that she lay naked in his arm.  Her eyes grew wide as her mouth formed a perfect little “o” as if wanting to say something but couldn’t quite get the words to spring forth from her lips.  Her pliant body that was lying so trustingly nestled against his chest suddenly grew stiff and unyielding.

He tried to dispel her rising panic by leaning down and lightly kissing her parted lips. 

As his lips roamed back and forth over hers, Buffy lay stiff in his arms, unsure how to act in the aftermath of what they had done.  Then, reason deserted her as she succumbed to the pleasure of his mouth on hers. 

William tore his mouth from hers before their kiss got out of hand, leaning his forehead against her own as he breathed deeply to bring his raging desire under control.  He was so close to chucking his good intentions to the wind and staying right there, Buffy held tight in his arms.  It was only the thought of the two of them being back in their cottage and warm that managed to force him to climb reluctantly on his feet.  When he had regained his footing, he released his grip under her legs allowing Buffy to stand up shakily next to him.

She seemed suddenly self-conscious in her nudity, probably because he was already dressed and ready to go. Her arms shifted in front of her in a half-hearted attempt to cover herself.  When he was assured that she could stand on her own, William released her to reach down and grab her clothes from where he had dropped them a moment ago.  He handed Buffy her undergarments and she sighed in relief as she realized they were dry.

With her bra and panties securely in place, Buffy felt a little less… exposed now.  She quickly donned the rest of her clothes and moved to get her camera from the rock where she had placed it earlier. 

“Why don’t you go up towards the opening so that I can put out the fire?  It’s going to get fairly dark in here.”

“Ok,” she said softly before turning towards the mouth of the cave.

Behind her, William made quick work of extinguishing the fire he had made, making sure there was no chance it could flare back up after they left.  When the fire was out, plunging the cave in darkness, he reached into his pocket and extracted his lighter.  He flicked it on, allowing the small flame to light his way back towards the exit.

When he caught up with Buffy, he closed the top of his lighter before slipping it into his pocket and snagging Buffy’s hand.  Eyeing the clouds in the distance, William led the way towards the path that would return them to their vehicle.  The two half-walked, half-jogged up the path that took them back to King Arthur’s Castle ruins.

As he had figured, there was no sign of anybody left at the site.  They quickly crossed the ruins before descending the path on the other side of the cliff that led back towards the waterfall and his car. 

~*~*~*~*~

He started the engine and immediately turned the heater on full blast.  The parking lot was deserted, all of the tourists and employees having long since gone home.  The silence was deafening and William could practically feel Buffy drawing in on herself.  It was the last thing he wanted to happen.

Throwing caution to the wind, he turned in his seat to face her.  She sat, staring straight ahead, practically refusing to look at him.

“Buffy?” he called softly.  He watched as she flinched at her name being called.  ‘Not good, mate.’

“Luv?”  He reached out to cup her face, determined to get her to look at him.  He’d sit here all night if he had to, but he refused to let her regret what they had done.  He had plans to finish what they started back at either her cottage or his – it didn’t matter to him, as long as they both ended up in the same bed together.

He managed to get her face pointed in his direction, but she still wasn’t looking at him.  Her eyes were downcast, refusing to make eye contact with him.

“Look at me, pet,” he softly cajoled.

Reluctantly, her eyelids lifted, revealing the tears shimmering in her eyes.

“I…” she began, but could get no further.

“Shhh…” he whispered as he halted her words by placing his thumb over her parted lips.  “It’s ok, luv.  No regrets, ok?”

Buffy didn’t say anything…couldn’t say anything around the lump in her throat…just nodded as she gazed into the fathomless blue orbs that silently willed her to agree with him.

She watched as his serious expression gave way to boyish delight at her capitulation.  The smile gracing his face made him appear years younger than he was.

‘With a face and smile like that, he should be on TV,’ she thought silently.

“What say we get home and get some dinner, yes?” he asked, his expression hopeful.

Buffy stared at him a moment, before throwing caution to the wind and nodding once more, unwilling for their time together to end.  She watched as his grin grew – if possible – even wider.  And, was that relief she saw in his eyes? 

He released her face and turned back in his seat so that he could put the car in gear.  Back on the road towards their cottages, he slipped his hand in hers.  He brought their joined hand to his lips so that he could kiss her knuckles before lowering it to rest on his thigh.  Buffy snuggled back in her seat, letting the heat from the vents warm her.

‘Are you crazy?’ her inner voice demanded.

‘Maybe…probably.  But, for once, I’m just going to enjoy myself,’ she argued back.

‘You’re going to get hurt.’

‘So, I’ll get hurt.  I’m tired of living my life cut off from every one I meet.  It’s time I spread my wings…and if they get singed…hey, at least I’m trying.’

‘I’m just trying to protect you…’

‘Yeah, but at what cost?  Believe me, I have no illusions that this thing with William is going to go anywhere.  It’s just a vacation romance for both of us…and it’s been so long.  I just need some…affection…I guess you could say.’

‘Keep telling yourself that, kid-o. Your heart is already involved.  Do you think you would have slept with him if it weren’t?’

Buffy had no answer to that.  And, unfortunately, she feared her inner voice was right.  Her heart was already involved.  Ignoring the sudden pain that realization caused, she pushed it to the back of her mind refusing to dwell on it.  She’d take the remainder of this week with William and stockpile the memories to pull out later, once she was back in the states and in school.  She had no delusions anything would come of this…thing she had with William.  All she could do was guard her heart as best she could and enjoy the time she did have with him.

~*~*~*~*~

The storm caught up with them just as William pulled back into Crackington Haven.  Glancing at his watch and noting the time he asked Buffy if she’d rather that they grabbed a quick bite at the pub instead of cooking something in the cottage.

“Huh?” she asked, pulled from her silent musings.

“I asked if you’d rather just grab a bite to eat at the pub.”

“Sure.  That’s fine.  Do you think Jake could make it to go?  I don’t see myself sitting in a booth in wet jeans.” 

“Good idea, pet.  You want to wait here while I order?”  Her pleased sigh was his answer.

~*~*~*~*~

The pub was fairly quiet – probably due to the nasty weather – when William stepped inside.  His eyes landed on Jake and he thought he saw a moment of relief in his eyes before it was quickly hidden.

“Will!  Come in, come in!”

“Hey, Jake,” he replied as he walked up to the bar.  “Think I can get a couple of orders of fish and chips to go?”

“Certainly, certainly.  I’ll be right back.”  Jake walked from behind the counter to place his order with the kitchen.  He was back in a flash and setting a pint of Will’s usual on the bar as he waited for his meal to cook.

William didn’t object to the beer, and took a long swallow from the glass.  Outside, the rain had picked up again and the two listened as it pounded down on the roof of the pub.

“It’s raining cats and dogs out there.  Hope your sightseeing wasn’t ruined.”

“Nah…although, we did get caught in a cave for a while.  My fault…wasn’t paying attention to the skies when we started exploring.”

“Ahhhh…Buffy ok?”

“Yeah.  She’s waiting out in the car.”  William indicated his slightly damp clothes.  “We got a little wet on the return trip back to the car.  She didn’t want to have to sit in here in wet clothes while we ate dinner.”

“I can understand that.  Lemme see if your dinner is ready.  You go ahead and finish up there.  Can’t keep the lady waiting, now can we?”  Jake gave him a wink then sauntered off towards the kitchen.

A few minutes later, Jake came back with a brown paper bag holding their dinner.  Mumbling his thanks, William took the bag.

“Put it on my tab, and I’ll be in tomorrow to settle up again.”

“Ok.  Have a good night, Will,” he replied as he waved the younger man away.  “Tell Buffy hello for me.”

“I will. Goodnight.” 

He paused in the open doorway and shook his head at the downpour.  Realizing that he was bound to get drenched again, he sighed and darted out into the rain.  His hair was plastered against his head by the time he got the door open.  He passed their dinner to Buffy to let her hold as he navigated his way home.

William parked in the designated parking area and shut off the engine.  Taking the bag from Buffy he asked, “Your place or mine?”

“Mine,” she replied without thinking.  Besides, it was closer.

“Ok, ready?”  She nodded, grabbing her key out of her pocket. Simultaneously, they opened their doors and made a mad dash in the rain to her front door.  It didn’t matter how fast they ran, both were thoroughly drenched by the time they reached her doorstep.  Buffy had left her camera in his car, keeping it safe from the rain.

She slipped the key in the lock and turned it, allowing the door to swing inward.  Both stepped inside and Buffy turned to shut the door.  William walked into the living area and set the bag down in one of the chairs.

“I’ll get a fire going.  Why don’t you get out of those wet clothes?”  Buffy didn’t need to be told twice. 

“I’ll just be a moment,” she called as she rushed upstairs.

William removed his sopping shirt and allowed it to drape over the fireplace tools.  Before long, his damp chest was drying from the blazing heat of the flame.  A few minutes later, Buffy joined him.  She had changed into a pair of green sweats and a matching sweatshirt.  Her wet hair was pulled back in a ponytail; fuzzy slippers adorned her feet.

He reached out his hand to her and she took it, allowing herself to be led in front of the fire so that they could sit before it and eat.  William had laid out their meals in front of the fireplace, figuring it would probably aid them in getting rid of the chill that had seeped into their bones.

Neither spoke as they ate, both too hungry to interrupt their meal for small talk.  Buffy did get up halfway through her dinner to grab something for them to drink and to put on a pot of coffee.

When she was finished, Buffy leaned back against the brick hearth allowing the heat from the fire to warm her back.  William had finished a few moments before her.  She was suddenly feeling quite shy…as if she wasn’t sure what was going to happen.  Oh, she knew they were going to end up back in bed, of that there was no doubt.  It was just the process of getting there that had her confused.

Should she invite him upstairs?  Should she wait for him to make the first move?  It had been so long, and she wasn’t quite sure how this was done.  Mentally kicking herself at her ineptness, she lifted her head to look at William.

He was staring at her like he was a starved man and she was his meal.  She swallowed hard and attempted to speak.

Her eyes glazed over as she watched him crawl towards her, his movements reminding her of a tiger that slowly stalked its prey.  She was helpless to move and waited for him to pounce on her.

Suddenly, he was before her, banding his arm around her back and pulling her body flush against his hard, bare chest as his lips swooped down and claimed hers.  Her mouth parted in a gasp, and his tongue boldly thrust its way inside, leaving no doubt in her mind how much he wanted her.

Chapter 12

Buffy snuggled closer to William’s warm body, as they lay entwined in her bed.  She was exhausted, but in a good kind of way.  The “I-just-had-sex-all-over-the-house-before-finally-making-it-upstairs-into-the-bed” kinda way. Since telling her conscience off, she’d literally thrown caution to the wind and decided to enjoy her time with William. 

And, the past several hours spent getting acquainted with his body had seemed more than worth it. 

She was just moments from sleep, was currently drifting in that space between wakefulness and slumber…lulled by the steady rise and fall of William’s chest as she curled on her side against him, while using his shoulder for a pillow.  Her last thought before finally succumbing to sleep was that she could get used to this. 

~*~*~*~*~ 

Buffy lay on her stomach underneath the covers, her nude body sliding sensuously within the sheets as she stretched.  She came fully awake as her arm slid across the bed to encounter…nothing.  She woke with a start, her eyes opening quickly to take in her surroundings. 

‘God, please don’t tell me he left,’ she whimpered silently.  ‘I couldn’t have been that wrong about him.’ 

She sat up in bed and clutched the sheet to her bare chest as she listened for any sound in the cottage.  It was early, couldn’t be more than six o’clock in the morning.  The sun was just starting to peek around the curtains covering the bedroom windows. 

Then, she heard it.  A creak…like someone walking barefoot up the stairs.  She waited, praying that it was William and not some noise the cottage made as it “settled.” 

She didn’t have long to wait, and a smile lit up her face as she caught a whiff of coffee smells just before he stepped in the room. 

Then, she forgot to breathe. 

Standing before her, wearing nothing but a pair of jeans that rode low on his hips since he had forgotten to button them, was William.  In his hands were two mugs of coffee, but Buffy quickly forgot about them as her gaze slid down to his feet to begin a thorough inspection of the man standing before her. 

She had never thought a man’s feet could be sexy, but looking at him, well… let’s just say: yum!  Her eyes traveled up his lean legs, encased in jeans, to where they molded his thighs.   She licked her lips in anticipation, and she watched as the bulge in his groin became more pronounced.  Buffy eyes the opened buttons of his button-fly jeans, her gaze fixated on the hairs playing a peek-a-boo dance as he slowly breathed in and out. 

Her eyes drew imaginary patterns over the hard planes of his abdomen and chest, mentally fingering his nipples that were hardened nubs – partially because of the cold and partially because of his growing arousal. 

Her gaze finally made it to his face, and Buffy sucked in her breath at the picture he made.  His hair was mussed and sticking up on end.  A look many men paid dearly to achieve, she was sure.  His head was cocked to the side, assessing her as her eyes roved over his body. His sensuous lips quirked at her, as if sensing her mounting desire, promising of things soon to come.   

But, it was his eyes that were her downfall.  They blazed with the passion he was desperately holding in check.   At one word, one tiny signal from her and he’d make good on the promise shining in their depths.  She swallowed the lump forming in her throat, pushing aside the melancholy thoughts trying to invade her mind.  She was going to live in the now.  And, right now, she wanted him…desperately. 

Dropping the sheet she held clutched to her breasts, she watched as his eyes smoldered.  Her breasts tingled as his gaze traveled over them in an invisible caress.  Emboldened by his reaction, she lifted one hand and brazenly crooked her finger at him. 

William, apparently, didn’t have to be asked twice.  He crossed the room in a blink of an eye, setting the coffee mugs on the nightstand before taking Buffy in his arms. 

She stopped him before he was able to make her mindless with passion. 

“Ummm…is it ok…” Her voice trailed off in embarrassment.   Her eyes glanced down at his cock as it begged to be released from its confines. “I…can I touch it?”  Her hand hovered over his groin hesitantly.  In all their activities of last night, she’d yet to have a chance to explore his body at her leisure. 

William bit back a groan at her shy request, determined to lie there and take whatever torture her hands could inflict on his body.  Her whispered entreaty melted the ice encasing his heart, and he found himself falling a little more in love with her.  He lay on his back on the bed, silently inviting her to explore to her heart’s content. 

A brilliant smile lit her face as he put his arms behind his head and silently invited her to explore. 

~*~*~*~*~ 

Buffy could cheerfully spend the entire afternoon. Peering over William’s prone body as he lay on his back with one arm tucked behind his head, she glanced at the clock on the bedside table as the digital minute changed to reveal that it was now 4:37 p.m.  Apparently, she had almost whiled away the day in bed.  Not that she was complaining…not by a long shot.  She didn’t even care that her body ached in places it had no business to ache. 

Bracing her against his chest to push herself to a seated position, she let out a muffled groan as her body protested the movement of her sore muscles.  A shower.  She needed a nice, hot shower to take away some of the strain the muscles within her body had endured over the course of the last…say, eighteen hours.  She was a runner for cripe’s sake.  She shouldn’t be this sore! 

‘Well, maybe you shouldn’t have turned into Miss Bendable for the last…oh…day,’ her inner voice taunted. 

‘Shut up!’  Groaning one more time, she finally managed to meet William’s eyes and noticed the self-satisfied smirk on his face. 

Her eyes narrowed on his face. 

“You too!”  She watched as his eyebrows shot up into his hairline and could have smacked her head for sounding like an idiot.  Trying to play it off, she swung her legs of the side of the bed and stood up, completely oblivious to the fetching picture of her bare backside afforded to William’s gaze.   

She bit back another groan and hobbled across the room to the door leading to the attached bathroom.   

~*~*~*~*~ 

William watched her as she walked away; the slow, even movements of her stride were a clear indication to him of her lack of practice of a sexual nature.  Not that she needed practice… mind.  And, he could feel himself hardening as his mind drifted back over the past several hours as she had explored every single inch of his body.  First with her hands… then with that wicked little tongue of hers. 

He groaned as his cock became rock hard as the image of her mouth encircling his cock flitted through his mind.  He was half tempted to get out of bed and join her in the shower.  Only her hesitant step as she made her way across the room held him in place. 

Flinging the covers off his nude body, he stood and went to retrieve his jeans from where Buffy had careless thrown them over her shoulder earlier.  They’d barely eaten all day and he suddenly found himself in the mood to take her out someplace nice…and he knew just the place.  He shrugged into his shirt and slipped on his sneakers. 

He was about to go to the bathroom to let her know that he was running next door for a minute to shower, change and make a phone call, when he heard a weird noise emanating from somewhere behind him.  It sounded like music.  Then, he figured out what it was…it was the theme song from Scooby Doo sounding from her cell phone. 

He moved to grab it and take it to Buffy so she could answer it, but then the music stopped.  He glanced at the panel and sure enough, it read “1 missed call.”  Well, he tried.   He’d just let her know that her phone had rung when he told her what he had planned. 

William was brought up short when he suddenly realized something: Buffy may not have brought a dress with her.  Then he shrugged.  No matter.  It wasn’t like Rick was going to tell him no.  He and his mum were childhood friends, after all.  Besides, since he wouldn’t be able to make it for their charity auction in London in November, he figured he could drop off a donation when they went by for dinner tonight. 

He walked to the open doorway of the bathroom and peeked inside.  It was a good thing he was dressed or he would have joined her in the shower.  Her nude body was outlined through the semi-transparent doors providing him with a tantalizing glimpse of pert breast thrust forward as her body arched backwards, her hands running through her hair as she rinsed the soap free from it. 

“Buffy,” he croaked out, before clearing his voice and starting over. “Buffy?” 

“Yes?” she answered. 

“Have you got a dress you can put on?” 

“Uh, yeah.  Why?”  William watched as her hands stilled in her hair, turning towards him as she waited for his answer.  He could barely make out the suds as they drifted down her body, trailing a lazy over and between her jutting breasts.  He swallowed hard before answering her in a roundabout way. 

“Put it on.  I’m gonna nip next door to shower and change and I’ll be back by to pick you up.” 

“Oh… ok.”    

“Oh, and Buffy…your phone rang.  Cute little ‘Scooby Doo’ ring.  Tried to bring in here for you to answer, but it stopped before I could get to it.” 

“Uh…thanks.” 

Buffy watched as William turned and left the bathroom.  She quickly finished rinsing her hair before turning the water off and opening the shower door to reach for a towel.  She couldn’t believe she hadn’t called her mother before now.   But, with the sudden storm and their reluctant imprisonment, then the sexcapades of later on and just recently concluding, she’d completely forgotten to call.  Her mom was probably worried sick by now.  And, God!   What a horrible mother she was turning out to be…meeting a man and engaging in sex for – she did a quick mental calculation in her head – damn near all day. 

Scrambling out of the bathroom, she raced to where her cell phone lay on the bedside table, mocking her for her lack of usage.  Guilt enveloped her as she reached over and grabbed the phone, quickly pressing the quick-dial button for her mom’s home phone number.   

“Hello?” 

“Mom!  It’s me…is everything ok?” 

“Yes…we’re fine.” 

“I’m sorry I didn’t call you yesterday like I said.  Things got a little…” Her voice trailed off for lack of a proper word to describe yesterday and today. 

“Oh, that’s ok, Buffy.  I don’t expect you to call every day.  I only called to let you know that if you tried to call today, to try us at the shop.  I’ve got to go in for a while; we got a new shipment that I need to look through.” 

“Oh…well, um…ok.” 

“Buffy, is everything ok?  Are you having fun?  Meet any cute tourists?” 

Buffy’s face turned a bright shade of crimson as she plopped down on the bed.  Leave it to her mom to play matchmaker.  She swore her mother had a one-track mind about trying to hook her up with someone.  What her mom failed to realize was that most men couldn’t be bothered with women that already had a kid.  At least, that was Buffy’s experience…and, not that she’d been looking.   It’s just that it was hard to meet a guy and introduce him to her daughter, only later having to explain why he wasn’t around anymore. 

It was one of the reasons Buffy hadn’t bothered to date since Angel had walked out her door all those years ago. 

With a resigned sigh, she replied, “Well, my new neighbor is kinda cute.” 

“Buffy, that’s great.  What’s his name?  What’s he do?” 

“Mom, I barely know the guy!” she interrupted.  

‘Didn’t stop you from sleeping with him, now did it?’ her inner voice taunted. 

‘Shut up! Go away!’ 

“Buffy…you need to get out more.  Live a little.  You’re only in your twenties for christsake!” 

“Yes, mom,” she mumbled into the phone.  It wasn’t the first time she’d heard this speech. 

“Buffy, you know I love you.  But, you’ve got to think of yourself once in a while.  Ok?” 

“Yes,” she whispered. 

“I just…I don’t like to think of you as only before your time.   I swear…if I could find that Angel, I’d string him up by his testicles!” 

“Oh, mom! Stop!” she cried. Her mother was usually so mellow.  But, to hear her raise her voice, and to say testicles on top of it…Buffy couldn’t help the laughter that erupted from her belly. 

“I’m just saying!” she was getting worked up on behalf of her daughter.   

“Well, if I ever run across him again, I’ll be sure to let you know.” 

She heard what suspiciously sounded like a snort come across the line.  Her mom was getting sassy in her old age.  She rather liked it. 

“Ok, mom!  I gotta run.  William’s gonna be by soon to take me to dinner.”  And, oh god, did I just say that out loud? 

“William?  Who’s William?” 

Leave it to her mom to clamp on to her little boo boo like a damn Rottweiler.   

“He’s the neighbor, mom. It’s no big.” 

‘Lying to your mother now?’ 

‘Didn’t I tell you to go away?’ 

“If you say so, honey.  Well, I’ll let you go get ready for your date.  Have fun! I love you.” 

“It’s not a date,” she tried to protest, but her mother had already hung up. 

“It’s not a date,” she repeated to herself out loud. 

She refused to acknowledge the extra pains she took with her hair and makeup, wanting to look her best for William.  When she was done, she pulled the simple black dress from its hanger and slipped it over her body.  The spaghetti-strap, simple black sheath settled over her frame, enhanced every curve of her petite body.  She slipped on her black pumps and was happy with the extra inches they added to her height.

Grabbing the small, black clutch purse from the bed, she made her way downstairs to wait for William.  A knock sounded at the door as she made her way down the stairs. 

Stepping off the bottom step and into the foyer, she opened the front door and came to an abrupt stop.  Her eyes started at the top of his head and trailed down over every inch of his suit-clad body.  William clad in jeans and a tight t-shirt was hot.  William dressed in a suit and tie was drop-dead gorgeous.  She could feel her mouth hanging open and tried to send a signal to her brain to make her snap it shut. 

William was doing the same amount of gawking as Buffy.  The simple black dress she wore took his breath away.  And, the amount of skin it laid bare for his eyes to gaze upon.   He was ready to call Rick back and tell him he couldn’t make it.  But, it would be his luck that his wife, Jill, would answer the phone – she’d refuse to accept his excuses for canceling. 

“Hi,” Buffy finally managed to get out.  “You want to come in while I grab my coat?” 

“Pet, if I come in, we’re not going to leave,” he replied, his dark gaze boring into hers causing her to blush. 

“Oh…ok.  Well, I’ll just be a second then.” 

She turned and walked to the chair that had her coat lying over the top of it.  She put her purse down on the seat and moved to slip the coat around her shoulders.  She let out a shocked gasp when she felt William pressed up against her back as he reached out to take the coat from her hands.  Her pulse skyrocketed at his nearness and she had to remind herself to breathe. 

William held out her coat for Buffy to slip her arms in the sleeves.   She closed her eyes as she felt him slowly lift it up her arms to settle around her shoulders.  How could he turn a simple act of assisting her with her coat into an act of sin?  Her head fell back against his chest as he wrapped his arms around her, pulling her body back against his. 

He leaned down and nuzzled her neck, completely exposed by the up-do style she had done with her hair.  Goosebumps broke out along her flesh as he placed little kisses in a trail up her neck before sucking the bottom part of her earlobe in his mouth. 

Her knees grew weak at the sensation and if he wasn’t holding her up, she knew she would have slipped into a quivering mass at his feet.   

“Mmmm, pet?  We better go while we still can,” he murmured seductively into her ear.  

Buffy just nodded, held entranced by the sensations of his tongue trailing around the shell of her ear as he spoke to her.  Then she felt the cold air as it brushed over the wet trail he made, and realized that he had lifted his head.  She felt his arms slide down her own as he attempted to steady her.  She tried to snap herself out of her trance as he reached around her and grabbed her purse from the chair and handing it to her. 

“Ready, luv?”

“Uh huh…yes.”  She nodded at him and made her way to the open doorway.  William was one step behind her, his hand pressed lightly to her lower back.

Chapter 13

William arrived at Rick's Seafood Restaurant in Padstow and parked the Land Rover around back.  The restaurant was actually closed right now as it was between the lunch and dinner hour - perfect for William to slip in unnoticed.

He assisted Buffy out of the vehicle, and they walked hand-in-hand to the staff rear entrance.  If Buffy was confused as to why they were going in the back way to the fancy restaurant William had brought her to, she didn't voice it.  However, when a man in a chef’s uniform greeted William with such familiarity, she couldn't help the questioning look she gave him.

"William," the man boomed in welcome, his arms held wide.  "When your mother called me and said you would be dropping by, I couldn't believe it!  It's been what...three years since you've been by?"

"About that.  Been rather busy..." he trailed off.

"I see.  So...who's this lovely lady you've brought with you?"

"Buffy Summers...Buffy, this is Rick, the owner and head chef.  Practically put Padstow on the map when he opened this restaurant almost twenty years ago."

"Oh, stop, William...You'll make an old man blush," he replied. 

"Hello, Ms. Summers," he continued as he turned to her and held out his hand in greeting.

"Buffy, please...And, it's a pleasure to meet you."

Rick grasped her hand in his, bringing his other to cover the top of hers. 

"Come...you must meet my wife, Jill," he voiced as he lead her through his pristine kitchens. "Ever since I mentioned that William was coming, and bringing a date, she's been in a dither to get things in order.  Nothing is too good for her William."

Buffy glanced back over her shoulder as she was led away and noticed a slight blush staining his cheeks.  He looked adorable as he shuffled along behind them, embarrassed to be the object of discussion.  Obviously, the two men were fast friends.

She was soon introduced to Jill and was happy to see that she was just as nice as her husband..  It surprised her to see that such obviously successful people were personable.  Although, looking at William...who wouldn't like him the moment they met him?

When the round of introductions were finished, William asked, "So, what's on the menu?"

"I thought I'd do some type of seafood sampler…that way you’ll both be able to try a variety of items.  Sound good?" Rick responded.

"As long as you're going to eat too...you are joining us, right?  Doesn't hardly seem fair that you're going to cook all that food and not eat."

"We won't be intruding on your evening?"

Buffy answered the older man.

"Of course not.  Besides, you can tell me all about your restaurant...possibly point out some areas of interest in Padstow..."

The older couple just beamed at her.

"It's settled then," William finished.

~*~

Dinner turned into a wonderful affair; the two couples laughed uproariously at the tales Rick shared about when he had first bought the property.

"A night club? Really?" Buffy questioned.

"Yep," Rick responded, smiling fondly at the memory. "Seems like we had a drunken brawl every night until finally the police shut the place down."

"What made you decide to open a restaurant?" she asked. 

Beside her, William leaned back in his chair – his belly full from the wonderful meal – as he sipped his wine.  He smiled as the story was recounted, having heard the tale often in his youth.  He'd spent a lot of time here - at one point working as a waiter during the summer to help pay for college.  He glanced over at Buffy and was pleased to see that she was actually engrossed in the story.  Jill caught William’s eye while her husband related to Buffy how he took a tiny bistro and made it into one of the best-known restaurants in the UK.

"Well, with the way you cook, it's no wonder you were so successful.  The meal was excellent," Buffy told him.

Rick sat next to her and was genuinely pleased by her compliment.  It was nice to have someone enjoy his cooking so much.  This was why he had opened his restaurant in the first place.

"I'm glad you enjoyed it.  So...tell me...how did you meet our William?"

Buffy glanced at William, a blush staining her features.

"We're neighbors for the week up at Crackington Haven," William answered for her.

"So, Will, does this mean we're going to see you at the Ivy Charity Auction in London in November?  Or, do you have to get back to work?"

"Unfortunately, I'll be working.  But, I'll leave a check with you.  Besides, it hardly seems fair to bid on you when I can get a meal out of you any time," he smirked.

"That's very generous of you, Will," he replied.

"Pssshh...you know your charity is just as important to me as it is to you."

Rick just nodded, saying nothing to refute him.

"How long are you in Padstow?  Can you stay the night?  Jill and I'd be happy to put you up at the house for the night if you want to take in the sights before you both head back.

William turned to Buffy and quirked his brow at her in query.

"I'd love to, but I didn't bring a change of clothes with me," she responded.

Rick turned to his wife.  "Jill, you've got some clothes that Buffy can wear, haven’t you?"

"I'm sure I can find something.  Why don't you come with me, Buffy," she urged as she stood up from the table. 

Buffy made to rise from the table, and this time managed not to flinch in confusion as William quickly stood up and held her chair out for her.  She smiled her thanks and followed the older woman from the dining room.

"William, I'll bring back a change of clothes for you as well.  Jeans and a shirt ok?"

He just nodded and watched as the two women left the restaurant before resuming his seat.

"She's lovely," Rick commented without preamble.

"Yes, she is.  And, she has no idea who I am.  Imagine that."

"A keeper then?"

Rick watched as a wistful look crossed the younger man's features.

"You love her!" he exclaimed, shocked.  His dear friend, William’s mother, had dispaired of her son ever getting married, let alone falling in love.

"Wot? No...I...bloody hell.  I'm not sure what I feel.  I mean, I only met her a few days ago, but it feels like I've known her forever, ya know?" he commented as he ran his hand through his hair.

~*~*~*~*~

Jill cornered Buffy as soon as the two women were alone.  She really liked the girl William had brought with him.  He probably didn't realize how telling his actions were, but Buffy was the first woman he had brought to the restaurant for her and Rick to meet.  The action was the equivalent to a declaration of his feelings for the girl.  Only, Buffy probably didn't realize it.

"How long are you going to be in the UK," she asked Buffy as she made conversation on the drive to her house.

"I fly back in a few days, actually...on Saturday.  My classes start on Monday, so I need to be back in the states before then."

"Classes?"

"Yes.  I'm in my final two years of college."

"Really? That's wonderful!  What are you studying?"

"Nursing," Buffy answered. "I like kids...love kids, actually.  I'd love to have a dozen if I could.  But, since that’s not in the plans anytime soon, I'll have to settle for working in pediatrics."

Jill smiled to herself, filing away that tidbit of information.  She reached her home a few minutes later.

~*~

"I appreciate the loan of the clothes. I really didn’t see me walking around the city in this flimsy dress and a pair of heels," she told Jill ruefully as she gazed down at her dressy attire.

"It's no problem, dear.  Glad to help out.  William always keeps clothes with us in case he has a chance to stop over and visit.  I'm surprised he didn't suggest you pack an overnight case."

'Probably because we were going to go home and make love for the rest of the night,' Buffy thought, blushing profusely at the wicked thought.

"Ahhhh...I see.  Well, don't feel like you have to stay here on account of us," Jill told her.

"Oh...no...I want to stay.  I left my camera in the car, and I'd love to take some more pictures."

"Well, I'll make sure William takes you to all the best spots then. I guess we better hurry, before the sun goes down."  Buffy glanced out the windows real quick before turning to look at the clock that was situated on the wall.

Fifteen minutes later, Buffy was clad in jeans and a sweatshirt - surprisingly, the two women wore the same size shoe, so Buffy was able to borrow a pair of sneakers from Jill as well.  The trip back to the restaurant went just as fast, and before long, the two women had rejoined the men in the deserted dining room of the restaurant.

"All set, pet?" William asked as he stood to greet them.  Beside him, Rick also came to his feet.

Buffy held her arms wide and did a quick pirouette to model her loaned clothing ensemble.

"Very nice, Jill.  Thanks for loaning Buffy the clothes.  I should have told her to pack a case on the off chance we would be staying over, but it completely slipped my mind."

"Don't worry about it," Jill commented.  "Swing by the house later, once you're done with your outing.  You still have a key, right?"

William nodded.

"It's good to see you again, William.  Give your mum our best the next time you see her," she said as she hugged him.

"I will.  Thanks again for the meal. I'll hurry and get changed so you can get set up for dinner.  Buffy and I will be by later this evening.  What time do you think you'll be out of here?"

"Probably about eleven."

"Ok.  We should be back to the house long before then."

He turned to Buffy and told her, "I'll be right back, luv.  Just need to change real quick."

She nodded, assuring him she'd be fine waiting in the dining room for him while he changed.

William walked off and Buffy turned to thank the older couple for their hospitality.  She told them she was going to stand by the window and take in the view while she waited for William to change his clothes, that way the two could get ready for the dinner crowd.

They nodded, telling her they would see her later that night, before leaving the dining room to head towards the kitchens.  Buffy walked over to the huge window and gazed down at the beautiful scenery below.  It seemed like only minutes had passed when she felt William at her back.  His arms circled her midsection, pulling her back against his lean frame.  They stood like that for a moment before he leaned down and whispered in her ear, "Ready, pet?"

She nodded and together they left to take in the sights of Padstow.

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