Later that same day Buffy and Spike sat in an oversized red velvet chair in his room. Spike pulled the black satin comforter tightly around their naked bodies as Buffy stared out the window watching the sun go down. She snuggled in his lap suddenly grateful for being so petite. Spike peppered kisses on the tops of her shoulders.

They had made passionate love when they got back from The No Name. They fell asleep made love some more and then spent hours talking.

Spike told her the tale of how he came to work for the F.B.I. He told her how he thought about leaving more than once and how Rupert always talked him out of it. He confessed for the first time to anyone how the loss of his parents left him feeling like he needed a parental figure in his life and Rupert fit the bill. He explained how Drucilla came to him that night at The Gin Joint. How he almost did leave town with Dawnie in tow but then changed his mind when he saw the look in his younger sister’s eyes.

Buffy in turn gave him the same consideration. She told him about her life in Italy. Talk freely about her grandmother and grandfather. How they were her parents connection into the Family. She told him how her Grandfather was The Family Lawyer in Italy. How her father and mother moved here and aligned themselves with the Giles Family. She cried and allowed him to hold her tightly soothing her pain when she revealed to him the whole sorted mess concerning Liam and his duplicity. And smiled knowing when he promised to never reveal that secret to Xander. Then finally she told him about the plan they had for him.

“Wesley told me prior to meeting you he knew you were a Fed.” Buffy explained.

“He thought I could be turned and put on the take?” Spike asked.

Buffy shook her head.

“No, he thought you could become one of us.” Buffy whispered.

Buffy suddenly worried Spike would be angry. Instead he just chuckled.

“So you knew all along?” Spike replied.

Buffy nodded.

“Like I said it was suppose to be a trap.” Buffy said.

“What happened then Luv?” Spike questioned.

Buffy turned and looked at him.

“These.” She said kissing his eyelids as they fluttered.

“These beautiful blue eyes of yours. They are intoxicating did you know that?” Buffy teased.

Spike smiled and shook his head slowly.

“I saw something there. I connected with you. You looked so lost but so strong. Insecure and confident at the same time.” Buffy said.

Spike kissed her eyelids mimicking her actions.

“I think I understand Pet. It was the same when I looked at you.” He said.

Spike held her enjoying the feeling of her tucked into his lap.

“It is strange Luv? I mean us being like this no secrets, no sneeking around?” Spike asked.

“A bit. I will miss the illictness of our meetings.” Buffy said kissing his chest.

“Well I am sure we can still be illict.” Spike said.

“Yes my darkroom is always available.” Buffy smirked.

“Speaking of which. I would love to see your photos one day.” Spike said.

Buffy giggled.

“What’s so funny?” Spike asked.

Buffy looked at him seriously.

“Promise not to get mad?” Buffy asked.

Spike nodded.

Buffy crawled off his lap and walked over to her small suitcase. She pulled a large envelope out and crawled back into Spike’s lap.

Spike rewrapped the comforter around Buffy as she pulled out some photos for the envelope. Spike’s eyes got wide.

“Bloody Hell!” He cried.

He watched as Buffy showed him a bunch of pictures of him. Some of him dining out with Jenny. Some of him walking down the street. One of him playing the piano in this very house as Dawn sang along. Another one of him looking at Dawn with love and pride.

“I remember this day. It was a week before Wesley finalized the deal. Lil Bit was learning the song she first sung at The No Name. This was before we met.” Spike said looking at the picture.

Buffy nodded. She stopped at one of the pictures. Spike was looking out the window they were in front of now. He had a far off look in his eye.

“This is my favorite. When I first took it and developed it I was obsessed with it for awhile. I always wondered what you were thinking.” Buffy said tracing a finger along the image of him.

Spike chuckled.

“You wouldn’t believe me if I told you Pet.” Spike replied.

“Try me.” Buffy challenged.

“I was thinking about you.” Spike said.

Buffy looked at him skeptical.

“I swear to you. God’s honest truth. It was right after The Bit went shopping for shoes for that night. She was so nervous and excited. Kept droning on and on about The Giles Family and how you were coming out of mourning. You were a legend to her. The only picture I had ever seen of you was from the paper and you had your head down. It was at Liam’s funeral. I had heard stories about how gorgeous you were. Gorgeous but deadly. I have to admit I worked you up to somewhat of a Venus in my imagination. I thought if I built you up to some unbelievable beauty that everything else would be a let down and I can handle it. That’s what I was doing just then imagining just how beautiful you could really be.” Spike explained.

“No wonder you were so cool when we met. I know your imagination. The real deal must have been anti-climatic.” Buffy sighed.

Spike took her face in his hands.

“You think I was cool? Lord Woman from the moment I saw you I felt like I was drowning. I couldn’t get my bloody hands to stop shaking.” Spike exclaimed.

Buffy laughed.

“Actually I remember that. I was a bit relieved because I felt like I was getting lost in your eyes. I was afraid you had noticed.” Buffy said.

Spike kissed her again. Buffy dropped the photos wrapping her arms around Spike’s neck. Spike gathered Buffy in his arms and carried her over to the bed kissing her the entire time. He lowered himself over her and then stopped for a moment.

“So you were stalking me?” He teased.

“No silly, studying. It’s something I learned a long time ago. If you know how to look at a picture you can figure out almost anything. My mother was a bit of an artist. She would take me to museums and make me find little details in paintings. I translated that into reading people. When I take a photo of someone it’s like I can see what their intensions are.” Buffy explained.

“What did you see in me?” Spike said.

“Pride, love, loyalty for Dawnie. Most of all I saw a little of me in you. That part that you don’t let anyone see but long for someone to touch.” Buffy whispered kissing his forehead. He kissed her deeply hovering over her for a long time.

Their mouths did an exotic dance. Buffy spread her legs inviting him in. Spike stared into her eyes as he sank into her. Both of them letting the other one in to their most secret of places.

Dawn sat at The Happy Cup Cafe with Willow and Oz. She smiled as Oz fawned over her friend. Almost to the point where Willow was getting exasperated.

“Oz I can pour the sugar into my coffee. I am not that banged up!” Willow cried.

Oz crosses his arms.

“Don’t even get me started on that one. You should not be out at all Red. You should be at home resting in bed.” Oz argued.

“I went to the club for an hour last night and Dawnie and I went shopping for a dress for her brother and Angel‘s wedding I didn‘t spend the day doing the Charleston or anything!” She said.

Dawn laughed at the two of them.

“What’s so funny Bit?” Oz asked.

“You two are already bickering like an old married couple.” Dawn said.

Oz and Willow blushed. Dawn playfully threw a corner of a piece of toast at Oz.

“Hey what was that for?” He asked.

“Who said you get to call me Bit?” Dawn asked.

Willow laughed.

“Unfortunately, it comes with the territory Dawn. Everyone get a nickname. Oz, Red, Angel even your brother is Spike. Whether you like it or not people are going to start calling you Bit or Lil Bit thank your brother for that one.” Willow explained.

Dawn looked down at her coffee.

“How did your brother get his nickname?” Dawn asked.

Oz looked at Dawn.

“Liam’s Father and my Mom were really good friends. His middle name is Connor after Liam’s family. Before the bad blood Connor used to follow Liam around like a puppy dog. So we started calling him Little Connor. His Dad didn’t like it much. But it stuck.” Oz explained.

“Oh” Dawn replied.

“Look Bit my family history is complicated. After I was born my someone tried to kill my Mom. My Dad thought tried to make her leave him. Said he didn’t love her anymore. She left and hooked up with Parker they got married and my little brother was born. My Mom and Dad always loved each other it was only a matter of time before they got back together. When they did well needless to say Parker was not too pleased. He married Darla and went into business with Travers.” Oz said.

Dawn nodded.

“So now that Travers is gone what does that mean for Connor?” Dawn said.

“Don’t know. He was suppose to inherit everything some sort of promise Travers made to Parker a long time ago. From what I hear though Travers left everything to Drucilla.” Oz mused.

“You’re right Bro.” They all heard.

Dawn turned and saw Connor standing in front of them.

Dawn stood up.

“Connor, I’m staying.” She said smiling.

Connor hung his head low.

“Dawn, that’s wonderful. But I have some news for all of you.” Connor said.

Oz and Red looked at him curiously.

“I’m leaving.” He whispered.

“WHAT!” Dawn cried.

Immediately she shut her mouth and looked around the cafe.

“Why?” Dawn asked.

“My father. He says I need to go. It’s not safe. There’s a war brewing with him and Traver’s widow.” Connor explained.

“Bro, you can stay with us. Mom will insist.” Oz argued.

“No it’s a done deal. Besides I am not going just anywhere. I’m going to Stanford.” Connor said trying to be upbeat.

“As in California?” Willow asked.

Connor nodded.

“They got a great Med School and well Dad can’t argue with me now. Looks like I have been cut loose finally.” Connor said.

Tears began to fall down her cheeks.

“Listen um, Red should really get home and rest. When are you leaving?” Oz asked.

“Tomorrow afternoon.” Connor answered.

“So soon?” Dawn whispered.

Oz got up the brother’s looked at each other.

“I’ll catch up with you before I go.” Connor promised.

“I’ll send the car back for you Bit.” Oz said as he and Red exited the Cafe.

Dawn finally looked up. Connor took her face in his hand.

“I’m sorry.” They both said in unison.

They both laughed.

“Look I will be back for vacations and the summer. And I write great letters.” Connor said.

“Promise?” Dawn pleaded.

“Hey Gorgeous, would I ever let you down?” Connor asked.

Dawn chuckled “Never.”

“You know there are a lot of great record labels in California. I could even do some research for you. Maybe in a few years.....” Connor‘s voice tapered off.

He opened his mouth to say something only to be cut off by Dawn kissing him on the cheek.

“I’m counting on it Lorenzo.” Dawn whispered.

Connor leaned down and kissed her.

“So now that we have that settled. What can I do for you before I go Gorgeous?” Connor asked his own emotions getting the better of him.

Dawn wrapped her arms around him.

“We dance.” She said quietly.

“I'm lost in the dark,

Where is the spark

For my love?

I'm lost in the night,

Holding the light

Of my love.

The heavens opened and closed,

As well I might have supposed,

And I am left in disabandon,

So far removed from all that I had planned on.”

Across town Spike and Buffy laid naked in his bed facing each other staring into each other’s eyes.

“My days have grown so lonely,

For I have lost my one and only;

My pride has been humbled,

But I am his, body and soul.”

Dawn and Connor held onto each other tightly swaying to music as if they were the only two people in the world.

“I was a mere sensation,

My house of cards had no foundation,

Although it has tumbled,

I still am his, body and soul.

At the Giles Home Oz tucked Red into his bed. He pulled out a small photo of him and Connor he began to walk away only to be stopped by Willow. She pulled him to the bed and scooted over. Gently she guided him to lay his head on her chest and held him to her softly.

What lies before me?

The future is stormy,

A winter that's gray and old;

Unless there's magic

The end will be tragic,

And echo the tale that's been told so often.

Rupert Ashton sat alone in his study. His eyes red with dark rings around them. She stared at the phone and finally picked it up dialing a number.

My life revolves about him,

What earthly good am I without him?

My castles have crumbled,

But I am his, body and soul.

Parker Abrams loaded his gun and kissed his wife goodbye. Darla tried to get him to stay but Parker only kissed the top of her head and walked out the door with two of his goons ready to go to war with Drucilla Travers for what he felt was his son‘s birthright.

What lies before me?

The future is stormy,

A winter that's gray and old;

Unless there's magic

The end will be tragic,

And echo the tale that's been told so often.

Winifred Giles cried in her husband’s arms. He held her tightly as he had done for the last hour. Trying to comfort her as the thought of her youngest son so far away tortured her.

My life revolves about him,

What earthly good am I without him?

My castles have crumbled,

But I am his, body and soul

Buffy watched Spike sleep in her arms. Spike opened his eyes for a moment and kissed her hand. Both were sated. Both were at peace. Both were blissfully unaware that the world had begun to spin out of control again.

A few hours later Buffy stood in The Giles living room getting off the phone with Anya. Spike entered and wrapped his arms around her from behind. Buffy smiled allowing him to kiss her neck.

“The movers will be here by 3:00.” Buffy announced.

Spike nodded and looked around the room.

“Well most everything here belongs to the Federal Government sort of. Bought with money they gave in nothing much here I want to keep.” Spike said looking around the room.

“The red chair?” Buffy asked hopeful.

Spike laughed.

“Definitely taking the red chair. Everything in The Bit’s room is hers not to mention all the stuff Jenny gave us...” Spike stopped himself.

Buffy turned around holding him.

“You have not called her and invited her to the wedding have you?” Buffy asked.

Spike shook his head.

“If I did she would come and it would put Rupert in a bad light. I think it’s best for all concerned if I didn’t.” Spike explained.

“You’re not mad about having to move are you?” Buffy asked.

That night at The No Name Wesley announced that he had purchased the property next to his estate for Buffy and Spike as a wedding present. They knew however it was only the surface reason. Spike was a member of The Giles Family now. Third on command as Wesley had said he would be. Their home had to be secure and near by to both Wesley and Xander in case an emergency had arose. When Spike asked Buffy why she and Liam never moved out on her own Buffy explained that she was told that Liam was still being groomed for his position where as Spike was being given it. Both of them knew now it was because Liam was not trusted. The irony was not lost to either one of them.

“Of course not Luv. Actually I am relieved. I have to admit with what The Bit told us I will be glad to have extra people watching you both. “ Spike said.

Buffy looked into his eyes again.

“Spike are you...”

Her last words were lost because of a firm kiss planted decidedly on her by Spike.

“No more of that question. I am where I need to be.” Spike whispered.

Buffy laughed.

Just then Dawn appeared looking frustrated and a bit lost.

“I have no idea where to even begin?” She exclaimed.

Buffy smiled and walked up to her.

“Let’s begin with getting you a new bed.” Buffy stated.

“What’s wrong with the one she has?” Spike asked.

Buffy and Dawn shared a look with each other.

“Nothing if you’re twelve.” Buffy said cautiously.

Her years of negotiation had taught her there were certain matters that had to be handle with the utmost care. Making a guardian or protective older brother realize his kid sister had grown up was one high on the list.

“But The Bit loves her bed.” He said looking proudly at the brass pink canopy bed in her tiny room.

Dawn opened her mouth to stay something only to have Buffy’s hand stop her by touching her arm gently.

“I am sure she does but Spike her new suite at the estate is as big as this penthouse. That little bed is going to get lost in her main quarters. It’s best we get something more suited for her new living quarters don’t you think?” Buffy questioned.

Spike looked around The Bit’s room.

“You are probably right.” He said.

Dawn let out a sigh of relief as Buffy smiled.

“Damn you’re good.” Dawn mouthed.

Buffy shrugged her shoulders and looked up at Spike who had just turned around missing the entire exchange between the two girls.

“Let’s go get you a bed Bit.” He said smiling.

“I have a better idea. Why don’t you stay here and wait for the movers. Dawn and I will go to McClain’s downtown and pick out a bed.” Buffy suggested.

Spike opened his mouth to say something.

“We’ll take Skinny and Johnny along.” Buffy offered.

“Sounds good.” Spike said.

Dawn squealed and hugged her brother running to get her coat. Buffy kissed him and smiled.

“Maybe you should pick out one for us as well Pet. Something solid and durable.” Spike smirked.

Buffy tapped his bum playfully.

“Yes Master.” She teased.

“Promises, promises Luv.” He whispered.

Dawn came out of her room.

“You ready?” She asked Buffy.

“Lead the way.” Buffy said hooking her arm to Dawn’s and walking out of the penthouse.

“Have I told you. You’re the best!?” Dawn asked.

Buffy looked at the girl shocked.

“No why would you say that?” Buffy replied.

“Because you make my brother happy. “ Dawn said simply.

Buffy blushed.

“That and you’re right. I was like twelve when he bought me the bed.” Dawn laughed.

Buffy joined in. She was going to love having a kid sister.

At 3:15 Buffy, Dawn Skinny and Johnny rolled up to The Penthouse. Both women were happy with their purchases. Warren McClain knew Buffy Connor well he was honored that The Giles Family was using his establishment to furnish the newest member’s home. Buffy sat back and watched as he catered to Dawn’s every whim. Starting with the bed and moving onto a bureau, and elegant vanity table. Buffy could sense Dawn felt like a Princess something she desperately needed right now.

Buffy herself was happy with what she had come up with for the suite she and Spike would share. She did not go for anything too feminine simple and elegant. Sturdy and durable as Spike had requested. She had to agree the last thing that wanted was the reputation of a couple who had to purchase a new bedroom set every other month because of there nightly activities. She could not wait for Spike to see.

They watched as the movers placed a large trunk into the van. Dawn frowned.

“That’s funny I have never seen that trunk before.” Dawn observed.

Buffy shrugged.

“Maybe the movers brought it.” Buffy offered.

Buffy got out of the car. She walked up to one of the movers.

“Is Mr. Ainsley upstairs?” Buffy asked.

“Yes Ma’m. We will be headed out with the first load right now.” He explained.

“Wow you guys are fast.” Buffy said.

“We aim to please Mrs. Ainsley.” He replied climbing into the truck.

Buffy was about to correct him but then just smiled. She liked the sound of that.

Buffy, Dawn and the two guards reached the penthouse. Dawn frowned looking around.

“What did they take everything is still here?” Dawn observed walking to her room.

She opened the door to her room and looked around.

“My room has not even been touched.” Dawn said.

They heard a knock on the door.

Buffy turned and saw a moving man standing in front of her. It was someone she knew from the club.

“Sorry Ms. Connor that we are late. Where do you what us to start.” He asked.

Skinny looked at Buffy confused.

“Your crew just left with a load.” Johnny said.

“No Sir we just got here.” The mover said.

Buffy’s eyes got wide. She ran into Spike’s room only to find it in a shambles. There were signs of a struggle. And then she saw it staining the floor a small drops of blood. She heard Dawn scream from behind her. Instinctively Buffy wrapped her arms around Spike’s sister. She looked at Skinny and said

“We need to leave here now.” Buffy said rushing Dawn out of the Penthouse.

Skinny and Johnny pulled out their guns. Skinny ushered the mover downstairs and gave him quick instructions to call Wesley and tell him what transpired. Without question the mover ran to the phone. Johnny lead the way down the stairs as Skinny took up the rear keeping the two women close.

Buffy held onto Dawn tight and got into the car. Skinny started the engine and drove off in lightening speed toward The Giles estate. Buffy closed her eyes Dawn’s words ringing through her head.

Buffy gulped hard. She knew Spike must have been in it. All the precautions they had taken for her safety all the worry everyone had done when it came to Buffy. It never dawned at her until this moment. She held onto a sobbing Dawn and whispered in disbelief.

“Oh God, Where they after Spike all along?”