* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Chapter 7

Living The Dream

They rode in the taxi, in awed silence, at what they were about to do. Spike flinched a little at the flashing lights, as they drove down the strip. Every thing here was harsh and bright and loud. Buffy glanced at his profile; he looked paler in the brilliance: she wondered at his thoughts as they neared their destination. Her stomach was a mass of butterflies of pre- wedding jitters. There was so much trust in those two little words "I do". Spike turned to look at her as if sensing her inner turmoil.

"You okay love?" He asked

"Never better, really!" She assured him.

"Good, cos you looked like you were going to your own execution," he smiled

"It's nothing, all brides get the pre-wedding nerves. I am kinda sad mom and Giles can't be here," she replied.

The taxi started to slow as it drew up out side a huge medieval looking castle, turrets and all. "Camelot Towers," Said the driver.

Buffy looked at Spike expectantly, trying to gauge his reaction.

"Bleedin' hell!" he exclaimed

Buffy squeezed his arm "I knew you would love it!" She replied, with a sigh of contentment.

"Er, yeah pet it's great," He said, a little lost for words.

They entered the foyer of the hotel; it was a mass of activity. Some members of staff were sporting full medieval costume. They looked like right wankers in Spike's opinion. He wasn't saying anything though; he didn't want to be the one to take away Buffy's evident excitement at their surroundings. She tugged on the sleeve of his coat and pulled him towards the main desk. A flustered little man stood behind it, he looked a comical figure in his knight's armour, obviously a couple of sizes too big for him. He looked at the advancing couple and pasted a welcome smile on his face.

"Hello, Mr Jenkins, hotel manager. How may I help you?" He asked.

"Hi, I'm Miss Summers, we have bookings, and we're getting married tonight," She said beaming at Spike.

The man ran his finger down the hotel registry, "Ah yes, you booked the 'Legendary Love Package, room 201," He smiled as he removed a bunch of keys from a hook. He made eye contact with one of the young men standing in the hotel foyer.

"Have the extras I ordered been delivered to our room yet?" She asked anxiously.

"Yes madam they all arrived this afternoon," he assured her. "This is Roger," He said pointing to the nervous looking young man, who was waiting for instruction. "He will show you to your room".

As the elevator took them up to their floor, the young man smiled at them. "First time in Vegas?" He asked.

"First time anywhere really," Buffy admitted.

"Oh, I've been around you know; spent a bit of time in Asia and Europe," Said Spike.

"Quite the traveller, you're English aren't you?" asked the boy.

"How d'ya guess?" Asked Spike sarcastically.

Roger flushed and turned to face the lift doors.

"Spike! Play nice," She whispered warningly

He was instantly contrite.

"Sorry pet, guess I have a case of the pre-wedding jitters too, I need a fag!" He said smiling at her.

Roger made a choking sound in his little corner. Buffy looked at Spike wide-eyed, and turned to Roger.

"Sorry my fiancé means a cigarette, they call them fags in England. It can be confusing," She said apologetically.

Left alone at last in their room, Spike flopped down in a chair and lit up a cigarette, he looked around appreciatively. Buffy looked at the size of the bed dominating the room. She walked over to it and jumped on it.

"Wow, that's not a king size bed! You could fit a whole family on here," She said.

"Sorry, but they're not invited. It might have a bit of an adverse effect on my performance," He grinned.

He stubbed out his cigarette and lay on the bed, by her side. They looked into each other's eyes, he traced the shape of her face with one long finger. It started to work it's way down wards towards the edge of her top. Buffy captured the wayward digit and kissed it.

" Nice try, but we have to get ready and I want to look my best for you," She said, looking at her watch and sliding off the bed.

"You want to shower first?" Buffy asked.

"Might be an idea, once you get in a bathroom, anyone else is lucky to get a look in," He replied.

"That is so not true!" She said huffily.

"Okay! Keep your shirt on, no on second thoughts, take it off," Spike leered at her.

"Spike!" she giggled.

"Have a sense of humour my sweet," He said, before disappearing into the bathroom.

Left alone, as she had planned, Buffy delved into her shoulder bag and pulled out the package she had bought earlier at the magic shop. A smile played around her lips as she touched the wrapping. Spike had given her so much these last six months; she just wanted to give something back. She placed the package in the bedside drawer and removed her outfit from the weapons bag. Buffy eyed it critically through its plastic covering; luckily it had not creased during the journey. Spike started whistling in the shower, she giggled, resisting the urge to join him.

He appeared a short while later wrapped in a hotel bathrobe.

"Bathroom's yours love," He smiled.

Buffy melted at the sight of him. He looked younger with his wet tousled hair. Shaking off her lustful thoughts, Buffy quickly grabbed her toiletries bag and hid her outfit behind her back. She rushed past him and firmly closed the door. Spike removed his suit and laid it on the bed. There was a knock at the door.

"Who is it?" He asked

"Delivery for Miss Summers," came the voice from the other side of the door.

Spike opened the door, a woman held a large cardboard box in her hands.

"What is it?" Spike asked curiously.

"Flowers for your wedding I believe; desk told me to bring them up," the woman replied.

Spike took the box from her, but she continued to hover in the doorway.

"What?" He asked impatiently, "Oh yeah, tip. Sorry I'm English we don't go in for tipping much," He smiled, handing the woman a bill.

She looked at the dollar he had given her

"So I see," she muttered under her breath, walking away in disgust.

"Who was that hun?" Buffy called from the bathroom

"Just some one with flowers pet," Spike replied.

"Oh, could you pass them to me, but no looking okay!"

She hid behind the door as he passed them into her.

"Hang on a moment Spike,"

She opened the box, and passed him a blood red rose for his buttonhole.

"I am not wearing flowers for anyone, the big poof might have gone for that sort of thing, but not me!" He rebelled.

Buffy's bottom lip trembled and her eyes misted over, hurt evident in her eyes. Spike cursed himself for his thoughtlessness. He sighed deeply.

"I am so sorry sweetheart, of course I will wear the flower," He said taking it from her hand. "Now get ready woman, we have a wedding to attend!"

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

"That's it then," Said Giles, as Joyce finished reading him Buffy's note.

"It says they will be back in a couple of days, I guess we just sit and wait," She said.

"I need a drink," Giles announced.

"Good Idea, I'll get the glasses,"

Joyce reappeared with a bottle of wine and a couple of glasses; she uncorked the wine and placed the glass in Giles's hand.

"What shall we toast to?" She asked.

"Why, the happy couple of course!" He said Quietly.

Joyce clinked glasses with Giles's and drank it down in one shot. The harsh trill of the phone shattered the momentary silence. Joyce jumped at the sound; she rose from the sofa to answer it.

"Maybe that's them," She said hopefully.

She vanished into the kitchen to answer it. Reappearing swiftly with the handset in her grasp.

"It's for you," She said, placing the receiver in his hand.

"Who is it?" He asked.

"Willow; they've found her," She replied.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Riley sat in his cell, his head in his hands. Oh boy, what he was going to do to those two when he got out of here. The police had only allowed him his phone call a couple of hours ago. The only person he could think of to call was his friend Forrest. If word of this got out to Professor Walsh, he knew he'd be in a lot of trouble. He eyed the man in the corner of the cell; he was a big guy, well built and covered in a mass of tattoos. Riley didn't like the way the man had been staring at him for the last half hour. He quickly looked away, not wanting to make eye contact. He tensed as the man got up off his bunk and started to swagger towards him.

"Hello sweetheart, what's your name then?" asked the man.

Riley remained silent, instead looking at the floor his fists clenched by his sides.

"Playing hard to get? I like that," The man leered.

Both occupants of the cell turned towards the sound of the security doors opening. Forrest came in with one of the arresting officers; Riley breathed an inward sigh of relief at the sight of his friend.

"Looks like I was here just in time to save your sorry ass," Forrest greeted him, looking over at Riley's cellmate.

Riley slapped him on the back pleased to see him. "Thanks Forrest, let's get back to the Initiative," he said.

They exited the police station. Forrest turned to him. "Sorry man you have been reassigned, I have your bags in the car: you are all packed,"

"Why? Where?" Stuttered Riley.

"As to the why, Professor Walsh decided your obsession with Buffy Summers was becoming unhealthy and a threat to the mission. She signed your papers personally; and as to the where; Columbia, you will be briefed when you get there. We have a chopper on standby right now," replied Forrest.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Spike waited nervously in the wedding chapel. He cut a handsome figure in his black tuxedo. He pinned the rose to his Jacket, inhaling the delicate scent.

"Oh my God! I am turning into peaches," He muttered under his breath.

Placing his hand on the breast of his jacket he felt the reassuring bump of the ring that rested there. Buffy had truly thought of everything. "The Legendary Love" package she had booked, also included a selection of wedding rings to choose from. He had finally settled on a plain gold band, not wanting it to clash with her engagement ring. Glancing at the clock, he noted she was running late. Ok it was the bride's prerogative to be late, but what about the poor guy waiting?

Buffy placed the wedding band she had chosen for Spike on her thumb. She stood outside the doors of the wedding chapel; waiting for the music to begin. She clasped her bouquet tightly as the first strains of "The wedding march" echoed from inside.

Spike turned his head in anticipation as the doors behind him opened. He stood frozen to the spot, rational thought leaving him as he saw the vision that was his bride to be. Buffy slowly made her way down the aisle towards Spike. She looked radiant in an ankle length, ivory sleeveless dress. It fitted to her curves perfectly. The bodice was decorated with hundreds of tiny glass beads that sparkled as they caught the light. She wore her hair up, with red roses pinned into it. And a simple bouquet of the same was held in her hands. She came to a stop directly in front of him and leaned in for a kiss.

"You look like an angel," Spike whispered in her ear as they parted.

"Seeing you look like that, makes me feel like a devil," She whispered back.

They turned to face the Officiate, hand in hand. He welcomed the couple, giving them dire warnings of the solemnity of marriage. But they barely heard him as they devoured each other with their eyes.

"I believe you have each composed your own marriage vows?" Asked the Officiate.

"That's correct," replied Buffy.

"Can I go first?" Spike requested.

Buffy nodded in agreement, and smiled at him lovingly.

"I had a thousand speeches, prepared in my head, to celebrate this perfect moment with you. I am no poet, not of worth anyway, but these words are from the heart," He sighed.

When you are sad I will wipe your tears,

When you are frightened I will calm your fears,

When you are low I will give you hope,

When you are lost, and can't see the light,

I will be your beacon, shining in the night,

This is my promise, I pledge to the end,

Why you may ask?

Because you are my lover, my wife, my friend.

He finished his tribute, not daring to look at Buffy until that moment.

"Buffy I know I am not perfect. I have been evil, but if you will have me and share your life with me, it would make me the happiest demon in existence," He finished.

Tears streaked their way down Buffy's cheeks. The Officiate reached behind him for a box of tissues, obviously kept for such occasions. He handed one to Buffy.

"Give me a moment ok?" She asked.

She gave a Spike a watery smile. Who would have thought the "man" in front of her now, so hell bent on killing her just a few short months ago, could possibly be the same person. Buffy composed herself and began.

Where there has been cold, you have brought warmth,

Where my life was dark, you have brought light,

In my darkest troubles, I looked for you, and you were there,

You are truly my knight in shining armour,

You may not realise it, but you have saved me, in so many ways,

And I love you for that,

I am honoured that you will have me as your wife,

And I am proud to have you as my husband,

I believe we were always meant to be, from the start,

And I will always love you with all my heart.

"I need a tissue too," Said Spike, wiping at his eyes.

Buffy gently touched his wet cheek. They exchanged rings, each looking at the other as they slid the respective bands on the other's fingers.

"By the power vested in me by the state of Nevada; I now pronounce you man and wife," Said the Officiate.

Spike pulled Buffy into a deep kiss.

The man smiled, this couple were going to make it, he could tell. Their vows were so heartfelt; the demon bit was a little puzzling, but then in his profession he had heard stranger.

TBC

*********************************

Chapter 8

Lets get it on

They made their way to their hotel room in a haze of happiness; oblivious to the sounds around them. Buffy breathed a deep sigh of contentment as they walked down the corridor together, hand in hand with the man of her dreams.

Spike struggled to open the door urgently as Buffy entwined her limbs and lips around her new husband. "Quit it Slayer! Unless you want to cause a public scandal; by me, STAKING YOU good and proper out here." He growled.

"Promises, promises" She whispered against his neck while nibbling at its white skin.

The door gave way as Spike finally managed to negotiate it. It swung open and took them both off balance; they fell to the floor in a crumpled heap. Buffy was cushioned by the fall as she landed on top of Spike; she plundered his lips with her own. Little sighs of pleasure escaping from her. Spike broke the contact, bodily lifting her off of himself. Buffy moaned at the loss of his touch.

"Spike!" She wailed.

"As much as I want to play a round of here comes the bride pet; the door is still open," He smiled. "Don't want the whole hotel witnessing our wedding night bliss; do we?" He finished, arching an eyebrow at her.

Buffy struggled to her feet, assisted by her vampire lover. She supposed he was right: they didn't want to get thrown out at this time of night, and her dress was pretty restrictive, for the activities she had planned for the evening. Not that, it would be an issue for long.

"Spike hon, I am going to go change into something more comfortable" She giggled. "I always wanted to say that corny line".

She made her way over to the chest of drawers. Opening them, her eyes alighted on her gift for him; she decided now might be the moment to give it to him. Picking up the package, she turned to face him. On seeing the anxiety in her face, he rushed to her side.

"What is it luv?" He asked.

Buffy handed him the package "For you," she said simply.

Spike took it, touching the black tissue paper it was wrapped in. He pulled at the wrappings, like an excited child at Christmas. Buffy watched him nervously, eager to witness his every emotion. He removed the lid of the box and looked inside for what seemed to Buffy, like an eternity. He raised his eyes to look at her; they were misty with unshed tears.

"Spike! What is it? Don't you like it? We can always exchange it when we get back", She said.

"Don't you dare, it's the most beautiful thing I've ever seen; next to you that is," he said, his voice cracking with emotion.

"I am so glad you like it," she beamed at him.

Spike couldn't quite stop the lone tear that escaped down his cheek. Buffy's gift moved him more than he could say, it was the only real present he'd received in his unlife; oh Dru had brought him sick little trophies from some of her kills, but this was different.

Buffy touched the wetness on his face with point of one finger.

"Sorry to be such a poof luv" He apologised.

"Hey, that's okay; anyway I am going to get changed; so you can unwrap your other present". She said, running her hand down her body, leaving him in no doubt as to what the other gift was.

As soon as Buffy closed the bathroom door, Spike tore his clothes off at lightening speed; he was of course, careful not to ruin Giles's suit; the shirt however did not fare so well, several buttons were ripped off in his haste. He took the pendant from the box and slipped it over his head. He admired it in the light, tracing the strange symbol etched on its surface. He arranged his naked form on the bed, trying to decide which pose screamed come and get me!

Buffy emerged moments later from the bathroom. Her golden hair fell softly over one shoulder; she looked coyly over at Spike, who was shifting around on the bed, striking different poses. She smiled to herself, didn't he realise that he looked sexy whatever he did?

Spike suddenly noticed Buffy standing in the doorway of the bathroom, in the sheerest garment he had ever seen. He reared back in delight at the sight of her loveliness; suddenly losing his balance, he fell off the bed, landing on one of the many rugs that adorned the room; feeling like a complete nit.

"Frigg! Frigg! Oh Bollocks, Sodding hell!" Said a mortified Spike. No sooner than he had uttered these words, he felt a jolt of what felt like electricity. He started to feel incredibly Horney, which was not an unusual sensation for him, but this felt different some how.

Buffy peered over the edge of the bed alluringly. "Are you ok Spike?" she said licking her lips at the site of his manly naked frame.

He arose seductively from the floor, a hint of smile creeping over his lips, his gaze glinting with steadfast desire and something else that Buffy couldn't quite define, she didn't care, and she just knew how much she needed him.

"Slayer," he drawled.

Buffy responded to seductive timbre of his voice. He growled low in his throat and lunged at her knocking her onto the bed. His eyes looked a deeper blue, than she remembered, almost like they were glowing. Spike started to delicious things with her body, driving all thoughts of anything, but his touch from her mind.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

"Oh hell!" exclaimed Giles, handing the receiver back to Joyce.

"What's the news Rupert", she asked.

Giles sat there for a moment, taking in what he had just heard. Xander was overjoyed at having found Willow, He felt a little relief himself, and he couldn't deny it. Why couldn't the news have come a few hours earlier, then maybe Buffy and Spike would have postponed the wedding until they had got Willow back in Sunnydale. It was so much more complicated now.

"Xander and Anya are bringing Willow home, apparently she cannot break the spell from where she is; it has been in place too long", he replied.

"So you mean that every one who was a effected by it, has to be present when she reverses it?" asked Joyce.

"That's the long and the short of it, yes, the longer a spell has been cast, the more powerful it becomes," He answered.

Joyce remained silent as she took in the new information. She was worried about Buffy and surprisingly about Spike too she realised. Well, he was probably now her son-in-law now, and she had always had an unspoken fondness for him. He had a vulnerability he had allowed only her to see.

Joyce remembered when he had returned to Sunnydale the year before; she had given him hot chocolate and advice and had felt genuine pity for him until Buffy and Angel burst in, almost staking him on her kitchen counter. Ok he was a little rough around the edges, but he had a great capacity for love and he had shown that in the treatment of her daughter.

"I am worried about them, BOTH of them" She emphasised.

"Me too, if you ever tell anyone I said that, I will deny it," he said.

"Okay you're secrets safe with me; so when can we expect Willow and the others?" she asked.

"Sometime tomorrow night," Giles answered.

"Oh great, that's when Buffy said she and Spike will be back, some homecoming," she said worridly.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

"Spike, I am so tired," She gasped in between heated kisses.

"You are going to get a wedding night to remember," he purred.

"But Spike, sixteen times!" Buffy panted

"I am a vampire remember, I can go all night," he said, kissing her into silence.

Several hours later, Spike lay sprawled on the top of the bed, fast asleep. Buffy stood at the window of their room and watched the sunrise, careful that none of its harmful rays touched Spike. As the light neared the edge of the bed, she closed the drapes, leaving them in semi-darkness. The wedding night had been every thing she had hoped for, even if Spike had been a bit of an animal. She sighed contentedly and joined her sleeping husband on the bed.

This perfect interlude was passing too quickly; they would have to return to Sunnydale later that day. Buffy was not looking forward to facing her mother and Giles, but she had Spike by her side and they were legally and physically wed. She smiled as her eyes devoured his shape, being married was wonderful, and she had never known him to be so passionate as last night. She suddenly became aware that she was being observed; turning her head she looked into an unwavering blue gaze.

"Mornin' Mrs Lovejoy," he said possessively.

"Mornin' Mr Lovejoy," she replied.

Spike sat up, placing a hand on his stomach. "I am starving pet; doing a husband's duty makes a man hungry," he grinned at her mischievously.

"So last night was a duty?" she asked pretending to look hurt.

"No; an absolute pleasure, never knew being married would make me so randy, I surprised even myself last night", he replied.

"There's blood in the fridge, would have loved to seen the staff's faces when they took delivery of that yesterday; probably thought we wanted it for some kind of satanic ritual," she giggled.

"Well you have been dancing with a devil" he leered, getting up off the bed and making his way to the mini fridge.

"We have to check out tonight," Buffy informed him sadly.

Spike was busy sucking on one of the blood bags he had liberated from the fridge, he sucked it dry and turned to her, his game face in place.

"There's a lot of hours between dawn and dusk," he smiled, making his way back over to her.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

They were flying somewhere over America; Xander was fast asleep; this was the longest rest he'd had in days. Planes had proved to be pretty safe from demon attacks; Xander had taken the opportunity to rest while he could. Anya looked at Willow, who was sitting in the window seat, she felt deep vengeful anger building up inside her just looking at the witch; Xander hadn't touched her in months and it was all Willow's fault.

Willow turned seeing Anya's heated gaze. "I know! You have every reason to be angry with me, but do you think I would have gone away knowing what I had done?" asked Willow.

"All I know is that I haven't had sex in a long time," said Anya angrily.

Willow sighed, trust Anya to be thinking about herself again, but wasn't she guilty of exactly the same thing? She thought to herself. She had cast a spell out of despair and had ruined the lives of those she had loved the most. She had a lot of making up to do, Xander had already ranted at her, and she still had Buffy, Spike and Giles to face yet. This was not going to be easy, but she had faced worse, how was Giles going to be able to forgive her for six months of darkness?

Things might not be so bad with Buffy, she had only said that Spike and Buffy should get married and they hadn't, so maybe she was stressing over nothing where those two were concerned. She certainly couldn't imagine Spike and Buffy getting intimate with each other; their dislike of one another ran too deep.

All those months searching for Oz, finally finding him several days ago in the remote Chinese village of Luosiu. Luosiu had consisted of a few well- built huts, pigs and goats roamed freely around the village. Oz had been living in the Buddhist temple on an island in the middle of the nearby lake. It had taken a journey by wooden canoe to reach him; he had been under the instruction of the senior monk. Oz had even taken to wearing the robes of their order, it had been an emotional reunion; short lived by the appearance of Anya and Xander. Her friends needed her more, Oz wasn't ready to leave yet, he was still learning how to control his wolfish nature; but it had given her hope for their future.

"Well just think of all the fun you will have making up for lost time," offered Willow apologetically.

"Didn't think of it like that," replied Anya.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

"Time for us to go Spike, we don't want to miss out flights," Said Buffy.

Spike was standing near to the window, he watched the sun go down, even in all these years it still never failed to fascinate him. He sighed inwardly, this was where all the real fun and games began, going home and facing Joyce and Giles. No point in brooding about things now, that was peaches job. He got the bags off the bed and joined Buffy, who was waiting expectantly by the door.

"Come on then pet, time to face the music," he smiled.

They were snuggled up together in the back seat of the taxi, both lost in thought; all too soon they were at the airport. Spike sat on one of the benches while Buffy went up to the desk. Buffy showed the boarding passes to the woman behind the counter.

"I am sorry there seems to be a problem," Said the Woman looking at her computer screen.

"Oh, and what might that be?" asked Buffy.

"We appear to have double booked, but don't worry it's our mistake; we can bump you up to first class at no extra cost," offered the woman.

"I am not complaining," Buffy smiled at the woman taking the new tickets.

They were seated in the plane, Spike didn't look so anxious this time as the engines started up. They got up to altitude and Spike unbelted himself, becoming quite the expert with the seatbelts. He leaned over and did the same to Buffy; he pulled her up out of her seat. Dragging her with him in almost indecent haste.

"Where are we going?" she asked.

"I want to show you something," he grinned pulling her into the confined cubicle, and locking the door behind them.

"What if someone want the bathroom," She asked

" Well they can sodding well hold on until we've finished with it," he growled.

"So that was Vegas? I have always wanted to go there," sighed Anya.

Willow smiled at her, the journey was almost over, and this was one homecoming she wasn't looking forward to. Xander was stirring in his seat. He opened his eyes, disorientated for a moment.

"Where are we?" he asked

"Just left Vegas," Willow replied.

"Will you be okay for a minute Xander? Can't see any demons around; and I need the bathroom," Said Anya, rising from her seat.

She made her way down the aisle to the toilets; the engaged light was on, so she stood outside them; waiting and waiting. She started to get impatient. She banged on the door; receiving no answer she put her ear to the door, recoiling in shock as she heard the noises from within. Anya stomped back to her seat, her face red with anger.

"Some people are just so selfish," She declared.

"What's the matter honey?" Xander asked.

"People are having sex in the toilets," she replied.

Willow tried hard to keep a straight face at Anya's words. Xander looked around and flushed bright red.

"Could you say it any louder? I don't think the people at the back of the plane heard you," he said.

"Really? do you think we should ask one of the cabin crew to announce it over the loudspeaker?" She asked seriously.

The announcement to passengers to return to their seats came over the loudspeaker. Buffy and Spike emerged from the toilets, both looked worse for wear. Buffy giggled as she looked at Spike's hair sticking up all over the place. Spike saw the direction of her laughter, quickly raking his fingers though it, and returning to some semblance of order.

"You don't look so hot yourself Summers," he teased.

"Lovejoy," She pouted.

"Sorry pet, how could I forget?" He said kissing the tip of her nose.

They held hands as they came into land at Sunnydale International airport.

"Ready to face the in-laws? Or should I say in-law and watcher," She asked

"As ready as we will ever be," Spike replied.

TBC

Chapter 9

Homecomings

It was late, Sunnydale International was almost deserted, and Willow shifted about nervously while Xander hailed a cab. Anya was still too breathless to speak. They'd all just had a too close encounter with a macaskill demon; it had jumped Xander as they were getting off the plane. Luckily there was no one to witness the attack except them. Anya eyed Willow with renewed anger as she got her breathing under control.

"See what you have done? This has been our life for the past six months" Anya panted angrily.

"I know it sounds lame, but all I can say is sorry," said Willow regretfully.

"We can talk about this later; when we get to Buffy's house," said Xander.

The three got in the cab and were more than thankful to be on their way home. Spike and Buffy exited the airport; they had been the last to leave the plane. Spike swore as he saw the last cab drive off.

"Bugger, bet we have to wait ages for another taxi, especially at this time of night," he said.

"Don't be so impatient darling, there is sure to be another one along soon, this is Sunnydale not some back and beyond," She smiled.

"Sorry pet, think it's just nerves getting to me," he sighed, lighting up a cigarette.

Buffy wrinkled her nose at the smoke "Hope you are going to give up that nasty habit," she complained.

Spike choked on his cigarette "Bleedin' hell! We have been married for five minutes and you are already trying to change me," he exclaimed.

Buffy ignored his sharp retort, not wanting to argue so soon into their marriage. A cab driving up to the airport entrance soon had Buffy distracted by other things. They got in and headed for home.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Joyce looked at her watch for about the hundredth time, she couldn't help pacing up and down the room with nervous energy.

"They're not coming Rupert, its past midnight they should be here by now," she said.

"Sit down Joyce before you wear a hole in the rug, they'll get here soon," he replied.

Joyce, ignoring Rupert went over to the window, looking out into the darkness that was Revello drive. She gasped and came away from the window.

"What is it?" asked Giles.

"A taxi just pulled up, I think they're here," she said.

"Ok calm down Joyce, I know they have been underhanded about the whole thing, but we were young once, let's try not to ruin their happiness," he said

Shakespeare lifted his head off Giles's lap at the sound of approaching footsteps. The knock at the door made both Giles and Joyce jump; such was the tension within them both.

"I suppose I'd better get that then," She said walking across to the front door.

Joyce opened the door widely, expecting to see her daughter and her new son- in-law standing there.

"Hi Joyce!" the three said in unison.

If Joyce looked disappointed, they were too busy giving her hugs for them to notice it. As they came in, Joyce went and stood on the porch looking around anxiously before going back inside and closing the door. Willow, Anya and Xander stood in the hall; they could see Giles seated on the lounge.

Xander turned to Joyce "How is he?"

"Fine, better in fact, we were worried about him for awhile but we had help from an unexpected area and he has been better these past few days," she replied.

"Oh yeah? Who was that then," he asked.

"Spike," Joyce replied.

"Spike! Forgive me if I have trouble believing that," Said Xander.

"I am blind not deaf, if you want to talk about me, at least come and do it in here," called Giles.

Willow hesitated at the entrance to the lounge as the others passed her.

"Willow?" Said Giles.

"Um, here," she said weakly.

"Come in Willow, I am not going to bite your head off, even though maybe I should," he said wryly.

"Giles I am so sorry," she wailed.

"Nice dog, when did you get him?" asked Anya, looking at Shakespeare.

"Since I lost the use of my eyes actually, he's a seeing eye dog," answered Giles.

"Oh that's nice," she replied, looking in askance at Xander who was frowning at her.

"Where are Spike and Buffy? I can break this spell tonight and get everyone back to normal," Said Willow, eager to make amends.

"Buff's probably on patrol, right Joyce?" asked Xander.

"Something like that," muttered Joyce.

"What about the evil un-dead?" Xander enquired.

"Oh he's with Buffy," Said Giles.

Xander, Anya and Willow looked at Giles in surprise.

"There are a few new developments you may not be aware of," Giles began, tiredly rubbing his eyes.

They all turned in alarm as the front door started to open.

"Demons!" said Xander getting ready to defend himself. They all rose from their seats.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Spike and Buffy stood together on the porch; the lights were on, everyone was obviously still awake. Buffy squealed in surprise as Spike lifted her into his arms.

"What are you doing Spike?" she asked.

"Carrying you over the threshold sweetheart, it's traditional," he grinned.

"And you are a real one for tradition," she answered archly.

Spike burst into the house with Buffy in his arms, ready to face the welcoming committee.

"Surprise!" he roared

All eyes turned to the couple except Giles. He just sat there with a resigned smile on his face; this was going to get interesting, he thought.

Anya turned to Xander, "Close your mouth honey, bugs might get in it," She said.

"Flies," he answered vaguely.

Spike swiftly dropped Buffy to the ground. She linked her arm through his.

"Why were you carrying Buffy, did she get hurt on patrol?" asked Anya.

"Oh God, you two aren't still acting like a bad episode of "Passions are you?" Xander asked.

"Hey! That's my favourite show," protested Spike.

"Look there are more important issues at stake, let's not get off topic," said Giles.

Buffy broke away from Spike; she was overjoyed to see everyone together again. She could share her happy news with them all.

"Willow!" she exclaimed, pulling her friend into a tight hug. She released Willow and held out her left hand to display her rings.

"You will never guess what has happened, Spike and I got married last night!" Buffy grinned, waiting for the congratulations to start coming.

"Oh", said Willow flushing guiltily.

"Yay," said Xander unenthusiastically.

"Oh that's great news, I think?" Said Anya looking around the room.

Buffy pouted at the lack of response to her announcement, bottom lip trembling. Spike rushed to her side, putting his arm around her.

"It's ok pet, it's late, I am sure every one is a little tired, we can celebrate in the morning," he said, glaring at everyone.

"Yeah I am pretty tired," she yawned.

"Well you didn't get a lot of sleep last night," He said smugly looking at Xander. He loved to wind the whelp up, guess there was still a little of the evil still in him, he thought.

"Mom?" Buffy looked at her mother.

"It's ok Buffy you two go to bed, we can talk in the morning," Joyce replied.

Buffy gave her mom a quick kiss on the cheek and wished the others goodnight as she disappeared up the stairs with Spike.

"Oh God, I am evil, I don't deserve to live," groaned Willow, slumping back into her seat.

"That's true," said Anya.

"Anya, a little more objectivity is required," Said Giles testily.

"Well everyone is here, do you want me to fix the spell now?" asked Willow.

"No," Said Joyce.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

"Our first night home together," Buffy smiled, undressing for bed.

"Yes, but I have been thinking, we can't live with your mother forever luv, a couple needs a space of their own," he replied.

"You want us to get our own place? We can't afford it, not on your wages at Willie's, I suppose I could get something part-time at the weekends to help," She said.

"Don't worry about it pet, I have somewhere in mind, rent-free and convenient for your other line of work," he said mysteriously.

"Let's talk about it in the morning, by the way what was with all the long faces downstairs," Buffy asked.

"I'm sure it was nothing, give them time pet, Giles and mum are used to us, the others have been away a long time, they will come around," Spike replied.

"I don't feel so sleepy anymore Spike," She smiled at him sexily.

"I was kind of hoping you would say that," he said crawling towards her on the bed, like a predatory jungle cat.

"We'd better keep the noise down a bit though," She whispered in his ear.

"Dunno, they might learn a thing or two," He leered.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

"So when did all this happen?" asked Xander.

"A couple of days ago, we thought it best to tell you when you returned," said Giles.

"Buffy and Spike got married, maybe we could too Xander," said Anya.

"We are so not talking about this now honey," Xander replied.

"I knew you didn't really love me, it was always about the orgasms wasn't it?" she cried, rising up out of her seat and slamming the front door behind her.

Xander sighed in resignation, "I think we'd better postpone this discussion for tomorrow; I have a cranky ex-demon to calm down, night Joyce, night Giles," He said grabbing his jacket off the stairs and quietly closing the door behind him.

"And then there were three," Shrugged Willow.

"Now it's just us here, maybe you might want to explain the reluctance to break the spell Joyce," Giles said.

"I am scared if you must know, scared what it will do to my daughter when she discovers all this has been one six month long dream, I know how much those two love each other, I have seen daily proofs of that love," She replied.

"Love?" Said Willow confusion etched upon her face.

"Yes it seems that way," Said Giles concisely.

"But I didn't cast a love spell on them, I only said they should get married," she said.

"Yes, but don't love and marriage go automatically hand in hand?" asked Joyce.

"That's a very romantic view point Joyce; people get married everyday, some for company; some for greed, some for lust, only a blessed few marry for the right reason, the reason that any one should have when contemplating marriage; love," He replied.

Willow looked at Giles as he felt around on the coffee table for his mug of tea; she reached over and placed it in his hands.

"I forgive you Willow," he said clasping her fingers.

Willow felt the tears sting at her eyes, it was more than she deserved; she knew it.

"Thank you Giles, if there is anyway I can make it up to you; just ask," She said in-between tears.

"Well there could be another problem," said Giles.

"Oh you mean besides the Buffy and Spike love fest going on upstairs while we speak?" she blushed.

"Yes, and it could have serious repercussions too, especially after you break the spell," he answered.

"Okay, what is it? More bad news?" She asked.

"It involves a certain pendant and the goddess Frigg," Giles replied.

"Why do I get the feeling I am not going to like this?" she asked

Giles explained all that had happened to willow, she sat there in silence until he finished.

"You may be stressing over nothing, if neither of them know about the power of the pendant, then there is little chance of it being activated," Willow said reassuringly.

"But what if it has?" asked Joyce.

"Then you will have something else to celebrate besides your daughter's recent wedding, I can practise magic, but undoing the work of goddesses would be beyond the capabilities of the most powerful witch in existence," Willow answered.

All three of them sat there in silence for a few minutes.

"I really have a lot to answer for don't I?" Asked Willow.

Joyce looked at her watch

"Let's not get into that now, it's late, Willow would you like to sleep here?" she asked.

"I was kinda hoping you would say that, I doubt they kept my dorm room open for me at uni," she replied

"I think I will join you Joyce," said Giles rising from his seat.

Joyce flushed

"Um I didn't mean that literally," he coughed awkwardly.

"It's okay Rupert, tomorrow is going to be a difficult day for everyone," she said.

"You know where everything is Willow?" asked Joyce.

"Yep you two just get to bed, oh but not together," She said quickly.

Joyce helped Giles up the stairs.

Do you think she knows?" asked Giles

"You can count on it," Joyce replied.

TBC

Chapter 10

Facing The Truth

"Sodding birds! Can't a vamp get some sleep around here?" Spike groaned at the loud chirping outside the bedroom window.

"Sorry Spike, things got a bit hot in here last night, I forgot to close the window," Buffy apologised.

She stretched, looking at the bedside clock.

"It is 9:00 am," She informed him

"So?" he answered.

"We have a prior appointment with mom and the gang," She reminded him.

Both occupants of the bed started, at the knock on the door

"Can I come in?" asked Joyce.

"Sure mom, we are both decent," answered Buffy.

Joyce entered the room and sat down on the end of the bed. The silence hung heavy in the air, both parties unsure of how to begin. Buffy broke the silence first.

"Mom, I am so sorry," apologised Buffy.

Joyce looked at them both and sighed.

"I can't pretend that I am not hurt, my only daughter runs off in the night to get married, with not so much as a word," she said.

"If you want to blame any one, blame me Joyce, I could have talked her out of it; my only excuse is that I love your daughter, and if her happiness required our being married, who am I to deny her that," said Spike.

Joyce seemed satisfied with Spike's statement. She looked at her daughter.

"And you feel absolutely the same way?" Joyce asked.

"Yes, I love him, I can't imagine my life without Spike, All I am all, I have done has led me to this perfect happiness; my life hasn't been filled with puppies and kittens mom, but being with him makes all the bad disappear, or at least easier to bear; I have truly never felt so loved and cherished as I am by him," Buffy replied.

Joyce frowned, "I hope you will both be singing the same tune later, Willow is awake and Xander and Anya are on their way over,"

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

"Sorry about last night, I was a bit tired from all the travelling, that's what I was supposed to say isn't it Xander?" asked Anya.

Xander raised his eyes to the ceiling; Anya was never going to get the subtleties of human behaviour he thought. Buffy bounded down the stairs.

"Hi guys, everything all set then?" Buffy asked.

"Yeah pretty simple really, I just chant a few words as we all hold hands," Said Willow.

"Right, I will go get my cup of coffee, otherwise I will be dead on my feet," grinned Buffy.

"Talking of the dead, where's your significant other?" asked Xander.

"He'll be down soon," answered Buffy, disappearing into the kitchen.

Xander got up and followed Buffy.

"Get you a coffee Xander?" she asked.

"No thanks Buff, we need to talk," Said Xander.

"What about?" she frowned, not liking his expression.

"How could you?" he asked.

"What?" Buffy was genuinely confused.

"Have sex with that," he replied, pointing his finger towards the ceiling.

Buffy tried to damp down the anger at Xander's attitude.

"None of you ever give him a chance, he's really changed, look at your own choice of partner first before bad-mouthing mine,"

"At least Anya has a soul," he replied.

"What is a soul, just look at "souled" people, does a soul stop someone from murder or violence or cruelty?" She asked him.

Spike entered the kitchen "Murder, violence, cruelty; my three favorite subjects," He grinned at Xander before giving Buffy a thorough kissing.

"Spike!"

"Just kidding love," He said.

Xander raised an eyebrow to make his point.

"The sooner we get this show on the road, the sooner we can all get back to normal," said Xander.

"Well that would be a first, especially living so close to the hell mouth," She laughed.

Xander left them alone, he couldn't stand seeing Buffy wrapped around Spike for one second longer. Buffy grabbed her coffee and her husband.

"Let's go and prove them all wrong," She said, pulling him in the direction of the lounge.

Spike resisted.

"What is it?" She asked

"I am afraid," he admitted

"I thought the big bad was scared of nothing," She said.

"I was; until I loved you, now I am afraid we will lose everything," he admitted.

"Never gonna happen," She beamed at him.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

"So we all have to sit in the magic circle and hold hands?" asked Xander.

"Yep," Said Willow.

"I am not holding that wanker's hand for no-one," Said Spike, glaring at Xander.

"Come and sit between Buffy and I," invited Willow.

Joyce guided Giles into the circle, all five settled into the ring and as they all held hands, Willow got ready to start her incantation.

"Ooh Spike, what cold hands you have," Shivered Willow.

"Mrs Lovejoy doesn't have any complaints about them," He leered squeezing Buffy's hand.

"Ssshhh," said Buffy blushing bright red.

"Cold does feel sexy, when Xander and I used to have sex, we used ice cubes," said Anya.

"Anya, that's a little too much information," choked Xander.

"Please be quiet I need to concentrate," complained Willow.

"Sorry," said Xander apologetically.

Willow lit the bowl of magic weed in the centre of the circle and began.

"Mighty Hectare hear me now, as I call on your powers," Willow chanted.

The bowl started to vibrate as the contents glowed red, Willow continued.

"Let the healing power begin, let my will be safe again, as these words of peace are spoken, let this harmful spell be broken," she said.

"I don't feel any different," said Xander.

"How about you Giles, can you see anything?" asked Joyce.

"No, not yet, are you sure you did the spell correctly Willow?" asked Giles.

"Yes," said Willow, slightly offended.

Buffy and Spike remained silent, Joyce looked at them both, Buffy snatched her hand away from Spike, looking at him with horror in her eyes.

"Oh my God!" Buffy exclaimed

"What is it pet?" Spike asked putting out his hand to touch her arm.

Buffy reared back, punching Spike on the nose.

"Don't touch me!" she yelled, getting up out of the circle, running upstairs and slamming their bedroom door.

Spike sat there looking at the floor, his head slowly shaking.

"I've lost her," He muttered sorrowfully.

Joyce knelt down beside her son-in-law; she touched his bowed blonde head. He looked up at her, tears in his eyes.

"She hates me Joyce, I saw it in her eyes," said Spike.

Joyce put her hand on his shoulder and patted it comfortingly.

"You still feel the same about her as you did before the spell was broken, don't you?" she asked.

"Yes," he said simply.

Joyce sighed, "Until we talk to Buffy, we can't know what she is feeling,"

"Maybe, I should go and talk to her?" Said Spike hopefully.

"No, I know my daughter, I don't think it will help matters, give her time," She advised.

Giles gasped, "My sight it's returning, I can see shapes and colours,"

"Oh thank God!" said Willow with great relief.

"God! When has he ever been around when he's needed?" asked Spike bitterly.

"I think if someone got me my glasses I would be able to see perfectly now, Joyce?" asked Giles.

"I'll get them Rupert, I put them away in your room as they were not exactly needed, at the same time I will go and make sure Buffy is ok," she replied.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Joyce knocked at Buffy's door; there was no answer.

"Buffy can I come in?" asked her mom.

"Go away!" Buffy yelled.

Joyce took a deep breath, ignoring her sometimes-wilful daughter; she entered her room. Buffy was curled up in a ball on the bed, she raised her tear stained face to look at her mom, seeing the compassion and concern on her mom's face, made a whole new wave of tears course down her cheeks. Joyce sat down beside her daughter, gently stroking her hair away from her face.

"What is it honey," asked Joyce.

"I don't know mom, it's hard to explain it; one moment I was holding hands with the man of my dreams, Willow said those words, then all I could feel was this terrible emptiness and hatred," she sobbed.

"Towards what or whom?" asked Joyce.

"I don't know, I think it was Spike, it's like I've been living one tremendous lie for the last six months, all the anger and frustration I felt towards him before his proposal came back in one angry flood; now I feel so confused about what I feel; I don't know if I can trust my emotions any more," Buffy replied

"What do you need?" said Joyce.

"I need time, to work out what I really feel and if what I feel is real mom," she said sadly.

"Do you want to see Spike?" Joyce asked.

"Oh mom I just can't face him right now," Buffy replied.

"Ok, I'll tell him," Joyce sighed, leaving Buffy alone with her confused emotions.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Joyce returned to the living room, handing Giles his glasses, he took them and tried them on.

"Oh yes, that's much better," he said squinting slightly, unused to the light.

"So what did she say mum?" asked Spike.

Joyce shook her head sadly.

"She won't see you Spike," she replied.

"That's it then, it's all over," he said dejectedly.

Spike got up from the floor and marched over to the front door, daylight was streaming in as he opened it and started to walk forward. A firm hand grabbing the collar of his duster halted his progress.

"Stop being so bloody melodramatic!" said Giles, pulling him back in and slamming the door.

Spike looked at Giles in amazement; if anyone had liked to see him fit in an ashtray, Spike would have thought it was Giles.

"Come and stay with me, I am moving out today, I can't impose on Joyce for a moment longer," said Giles surprising even himself by his offer.

"Are you sure Rupert, you are welcome to stay a few more days," offered Joyce.

"No, my apartment has been empty long enough," he replied.

"Have I been transported into an alternate universe where everyone thinks Spike is the good guy?" asked Xander, in disbelief.

"It's perfectly safe, besides he has nowhere to go," said Giles.

"Can I just say, how much I don't care," said Xander.

"Sweetie, we have to go to your parents basement and have lots of orgasms now," insisted Anya.

"Fine! Anything is better than staying in this mad house," Xander replied.

He grabbed Anya and slammed out of the house.

Spike sat slumped on the sofa, his head bowed. Joyce came and sat next to him.

"Don't give up son, just give her time, I know how much you love her, but she is very confused right now, she needs space to work it all out in her head," she told him.

Spike looked at Joyce, there was a flicker of hope alight in his eyes.

"Ok, I will do what you ask, I'll go and stay with Rupes here, but if anything changes; let me know, ok?" said Spike.

"Where's Willow," Joyce asked Giles.

"Guilt baking in the kitchen, if I am not mistaken," said Giles, sniffing the air.

"It's going to take more than a few baked goodies to fix this mess," sighed Joyce.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

"Thanks for taking me in like this," said Spike, looking around Giles's dusty apartment.

It had been several months since anyone had been here; it had a slightly musty unused odour to it.

"Think nothing of it, you helped me in my hour of need," said Giles awkwardly.

"So where do I sleep, please don't tell me it's that bleedin' awful bath tub again?" asked Spike.

"No, um you get the couch," Giles replied.

Shakespeare nudged his head around the front door, sniffing at his new home.

"Come here boy," said Spike patting his leg.

Shakespeare went to the blonde vamp and settled by his feet.

"Looks like we both have a new home," Spike said sadly, to the resting dog.

"Don't know about you, but I could use a drink; a real one!" emphasised Giles.

Giles went over to one of the many bookcases spread around the room, shifting a few books to one side, he pulled out a near full decanter of brandy holding it aloft in triumph.

"Spike, you get some glasses, they are in the cupboard just as you go in the kitchen," he instructed.

Spike got off the sofa, glad to have something to do. Swiftly returning with two glass tumblers.

"Say when," said Giles pouring a generous amount into Spike's glass, it was almost to the top before Spike told him to stop. Giles frowned at him.

"What? I need it! Serious pain here," he said clutching his chest.

Spike gulped down the amber liquid, it numbing qualities starting to take effect. Giles sipped his own; knowing its potency.

"I need another," said Spike, slurring his words slightly.

"Pace yourself Spike, the night is young," said Giles.

"Sod the frigging' night," said Spike.

Giles paled at Spike's expletive

"Frigging, frigg; it that a word you use quite often Spike?" Giles enquired

"Yeah, when the occasion calls for it, why?" He asked haughtily, gulping down a second drink.

"Now think real hard; have you used that word in the last few days?" Giles asked him.

"Dunno, could have; oh yeah wait! I did say it on my wedding night come to think of it, fell off the bed right after I put on this," Said Spike, pulling the chain of the pendant out from beneath his black t-shirt.

"Oh God" said Giles.

"What?" asked Spike, pouring himself another drink.

TBC

Chapter 11

Changes

"It's been two weeks now Giles, not a word from Buffy, I think it's time to face the fact that she does not love me anymore," Spike said sadly.

Giles sat stretched out on his sofa, enjoying the luxury of reading the morning newspaper, the Braille papers had been ok, but they were usually several days out of date. Shakespeare lay fast asleep at his master's feet, snoring slightly.

"Look it's morning now, why don't you get some sleep, I thought day was your night," said Giles.

"Would mate, but my bed is rather occupied," said Spike looking at the sofa.

"Oh right, sorry I forgot; look I have a lot of research to do today, you can take my bed just this once," offered Giles.

"Thanks," said Spike, tiredly trudging up the stairs.

"Yes, get a good days sleep, maybe things will seem better in the night," said Giles. He didn't miss the vampire's cynical snort at his words.

"Yes, I have a lot of research to do today, including collecting a certain book on the Goddess Frigg, at the library," Giles said under his breath.

He grabbed his coat from the peg in the hall and left Spike alone to his slumber. As much as he had grown to like Spike, vampires on the whole were a broody lot; he left to get some much-needed air and light.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Willow had been staying at the Summers home ever since her return; she really did not want to move back in with her mom. The new semester at Uni would be starting in a few weeks. She was still waiting to hear about a new dorm, she kinda liked living with Buffy and her mom, it gave a feeling of being a family, something she had not experienced with her own. Plus it gave her a chance to work off some of her guilt feelings. Willow was worried about Buffy, she was looking tired and drawn these days; it was even worse than when Angel had left her, she knew a lot of it was her fault.

"Damn that stupid spell!" she said aloud to herself.

A knock at her door woke her from her thoughts.

"Hey Willow, can I come in?" asked Buffy.

"Sure," said Willow, rushing to open the door.

"What is it Buff?" she asked as her friend came in and sat on the bed.

Buffy looked at Willow for a few moments, building up the courage to utter the words.

"I am late," Buffy, told her.

"Late? You have to be somewhere? Maybe if I ask your mom she will lend me the car and I can drive you," said Willow.

"No, not that kinda late, as in my period late," said Buffy shaking her head.

"Oh!" said Willow.

"I know it's not supposed to be possible, Spike being a vamp and all, but I am never late, should have had them five days ago, just kept hoping they would turn up, probably just all the stress, take no notice I am being stupid," sighed Buffy.

"You may discover you are not as stupid as you think," said Willow.

"What do you mean?" asked Buffy frowning.

Willow proceeded to tell her about the pendant, Buffy sat in stunned silence trying to take it all in.

"And you choose to tell me now? Two weeks ago might have been better," said Buffy angrily.

"We decided, it best not to worry you, there was little chance of it being activated anyway," Willow said trying to explain.

"We? Who else knows?" she demanded.

"Your mom and Giles," Willow admitted sheepishly.

Buffy looked at Willow, her eyes flashing angrily.

"Well there's only one way to settle this," Buffy said.

"What are you going to do?" asked Willow fearfully.

"First I am going to the drug store for a pregnancy test and when I know the results of that; I am going to find Giles!" She said, slamming out of the room.

"Oh hell!" said Willow to herself.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Buffy hammered on the door of Giles's apartment. The paper bag containing the pregnancy kit was clasped firmly in her hand. She had not been able to use it; there had been no public toilets between the mall and Giles's home. This had only increased Buffy's anger.

"Giles open this door! I know you are in there!" Buffy yelled through the thick wood.

Spike was fast asleep in Giles's bed, it was the first decent sleep he's had in two weeks. He was dreaming; the dreams and the alcohol had been his only respite from the pain of the last few days. He was having a particularly erotic dream about Buffy; she was threatening him with the point of a very large stake; it was firmly pressed against his chest, he could almost feel it pricking into his skin. Buffy's other hand was travelling down his body; all the time she was looking into his eyes.

"I'm dying for a good slay," purred the dream Buffy as she unbelted his black jeans.

"Bang! Bang! Bang! The front door was being pounded with such a force it could wake the dead. Which it swiftly did, Spike groaned in frustration.

"Bleedin' hell Giles, forget your keys again?" shouted Spike, quickly putting on his jeans.

He flung back the heavy wooden door.

"Giles! I am gonna slay you, oh uh Spike," she trailed off awkwardly.

"Buffy" Spike sputtered in shock.

Buffy felt the blush creep up her neck and settle on her cheeks. Seeing Spike, standing there shirtless was doing strange things to her pulse. She was terrified her heart was beating so loud; she was sure Spike could hear it.

"Is Giles here?" she asked, trying to take her mind off her husband's body.

"Nope," said Spike unhelpfully.

"Ok I'll come back later then," she replied, turning to leave.

Spike put her hand on her arm,

"Don't go, Giles will be back soon," he pleaded.

Buffy looked into his eyes, properly for the first time since the spell had been broken, she saw the pain there mirror her own. She hardened her heart against it; she was here on a mission of sorts and couldn't let emotion cloud her judgement.

"I am sorry Spike, I just can't, tell Giles I need to see him urgently," she said walking away.

Spike sagged against the doorway, watching her retreating figure; he went back inside and searched behind a big pile of books for his bottle of half drunk Vodka.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Buffy marched upstairs to the bathroom, still shaken by her recent encounter with Spike. She was holding her paper sack to her like a lifesaver. The hall way was deserted; she could hear the faint strains of new age music drifting from Willow's room. She closed herself into the sterile white bathroom. Her hands shaking with fear and something else, something she wasn't in the mood to delve too deeply into at this moment.

Buffy looked at her self in the mirror.

"Get a grip!" she said angrily to the girl looking back at her.

Buffy let out a big breath; hastily tearing at the plastic wrapping, the instructions may as well have been Russian for all she understood of them. How many directions do you need to pee on a stick? She asked herself. She could avert an apocalypse, but this? Buffy decided to take the plunge, stick wet and capped, she sat back and waited. Two minutes felt like an eternity, she stared at her wristwatch, wishing the time away.

The door handle turned making Buffy jump.

"Hey! I will be out in a minute," she said testily.

"Sorry, ok Buffy," Said Willow from the other side of the door.

Buffy glanced at her watch, her two minutes were up, and she grabbed the stick and the sheet of instructions, reading aloud to herself.

"Right, one blue line means bye bye baby, two blue lines means hello mama,"

Buffy slowly turned the stick over, looking at the indicator; she grasped the towel rail to steady herself.

"OH FRIGG!" she said before sliding to the floor in a dead faint.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

It was late afternoon when Giles finally returned home. Spike lay sprawled on the sofa, the empty vodka bottle by his side; Shakespeare was sitting across his lap.

"Hello Giles, just been pouring out my woes to my friend Shakespeare here, he's a great listener," slurred Spike.

"Oh no you don't," said Giles.

"Don't what?" asked Spike.

"I am not having you wallowing around in self pity, I wasted six months of my life doing the same until you talked me out of it; so as a friend I am going to repay the favour," he said marching over to Spike and hauling him into the kitchen.

Giles put the plug in the sink and turned on the cold tap, filling the sink. He turned it off, grabbing Spike by the shoulders; pushing the vampire's face into it.

"You've got to be cruel to be kind," said Giles firmly.

He lifted Spike's head out of the icy water.

"What the bleedin' hell was that for?" coughed Spike.

"Quickest thing I could think of to sober you up," said Giles, throwing a towel in Spike's face.

"Well it bloody worked," said Spike angrily wiping his wet face.

Giles smiled at him and walked into the lounge, Spike followed, flopping into one of the armchairs.

"What brought on this latest bout of self pity then?" asked Giles.

"Buffy," he answered.

"What's she done now?" asked Giles rolling his eyes.

"She was here earlier, looking for you; she really seemed to have her knickers in a twist about something," Spike said.

"Did she say what about?" he asked.

"Wasn't in a very chatty mood, nearly broke down the front door though," Spike replied.

"I'd better get over there, see what the problem is; you'll be alright for a couple of hours, won't you Spike?" Giles asked.

"Go, I am old enough not to need a babysitter, besides its nearly dusk, time I was getting ready for work," he said.

Giles grabbed his jacket, and set off to face some new catastrophe. As long as it wasn't what he thought it might be. Give me an old fashioned apocalypse any day, he sighed.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Willow knocked on the bathroom door anxiously.

"Buffy! Buffy! You ok in there?" she asked.

Her frantic cries were met with silence. Joyce came up the stairs to see what all the noise was about.

"It's Buffy, she's been in the bathroom over half an hour; I can't get her to answer me," said Willow.

"Buffy honey are you in there?" Joyce said trying the locked door, ineffectually pushing it with her shoulder.

Giles called up the stairs

"Hello, any one at home?" he asked.

"Oh God, Giles we need your help, Buffy is locked in the bathroom and we can't get any answer," Said Joyce worriedly.

"Here let me try," he said.

After several hard shoves against the door, it finally burst open, Giles had to stop him from falling on the floor. Giles, Joyce and Willow took in the sight of Buffy sitting cross-legged in the middle of the bathroom floor.

"Hi guys," grinned Buffy hysterically.

"What is it?" Joyce asked

Buffy held up the pregnancy kit.

"Look, I 'm gonna be a mommy," she beamed at the group.

Giles caught Joyce as she started to fall to the floor.

TBC

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