Chapter Thirty-Two: Blood & Brains

Luna - 'Hey, just thought I'd drop a line to tell you I really liked that last Buffy/Angel exchange. As I was just mentioning in another review, I love Angel, just not B/A, so I don't really like seeing him as a total jerk. It's nice to see you softening him up a little.' - Me too Luna - I don't like my characters to be one-dimensional. I'm glad you liked it. 'Hopefully you think Buffy will get something from her Giles coversation and will actually *talk* to Spike sometime soon.' Well, it may be sooner than you think - read on.

RogueAngel - 'Can they just talk already?! Please?! Not really the begging type, but would it help?' No need to beg. I actually wrote it before that. Don't worry. . .have faith :)

Thanks everyone for the great reviews! Your feedback has been amazing (you make me blush).

Anyway, thanks again to Flames, Lady Anne, and Silver (I love you site momma - hope all is well). Also, an additional round of applause for Flames and Kella - for doing such a wonderful job with their newly acquired responsibilities.

Read and review away!

DAY 14 - Midnight

Buffy sat on the back steps of Revello, waiting patiently for him to arrive. He had approached her during dinner at the cafeteria, requesting her to meet with him that evening. She was hesitant, but obliged. She knew they had to talk this thing out, before any additional confusing messages were sent.

"Hey," she heard a soft voice say from the darkness.

She looked up and smiled shyly at the man in front of her. "Hi. I'm glad you came."

Spike smiled and took a seat next to her on the steps. "Well, it was my idea, pet."

Buffy laughed softly and punched him playfully in the shoulder. "So. . .good game today."

"I guess." Spike shrugged, then rotated his swollen ankle slowly. "This hurts like a bitch, though."

She quirked an eyebrow at him. "And whose fault is that exactly? I was really worried that you . . ." she stopped herself before saying too much.

Spike studied her carefully. "You were?"

She swallowed sharply, and nodded slowly. Off his curious gaze, her face broke out into a slight smirk. "Well, for like. . .a second."

"Of course," he said, with mock seriousness, before chuckling softly. He slowly reached for her hand and intertwined their fingers tightly. She looked down at their joined hands and gulped; she couldn't tell where his fingers ended and hers began - it felt right. He stood up and pulled her arm lightly. "Come on." He tilted his head indicating for her to join him.

Buffy stood up and let him lead her into the darkness.

Spike walked only a few feet before laying his duster on the ground, gesturing for her to take a seat beside him on the makeshift blanket.

Buffy leaned back on her elbows and looked up at the clear sky. "Wow," she breathed. Of course, she had seen the twinkling skies above Sunny-D many times, but tonight the stars seemed to sparkle much more brightly. "It's so beautiful."

"Yah, it is." Buffy turned to Spike, and found him staring at her. She blushed and quickly directed her eyes back to the starry night sky. "So . . ." she started.

"Yah-" he echoed her thoughts, taking a deep breath. "-So . . ."

Neither of them wanted to begin the conversation that needed to take place between them. They knew that without it, they would fall apart; but neither wanted to speak the words.

Buffy decided to break the unbearable silence. "So. . .you and Drusilla, huh?" Buffy asked quietly, hoping her voice didn't betray her and allow Spike to hear the jealousy that was buried there.

"Who told you that?" He asked looking at Buffy, who was now sitting with her hands folded in her lap. "Is it because you saw us. . ."

"Well, I've just seen you with her a lot lately, and just assumed . . ." her voice trailed off.

Spike let a large groan escape his mouth. "Buffy . . .you have to . . ."

Buffy held up her hand, signaling him to stop. "You don't have to say it. If you want to be with Drusilla, that's fine."

Spike felt his anger rising. 'Does she always have to be so impossible?' "Just because you've seen me. . ."

Buffy scoffed at him and rose to her feet, hands placed on her hips. "Seen you?! How could I not? You're like, ALWAYS all over each other."

Spike stood up, not wanting to be beneath her for one second. "Are you checking up on me now?" he asked in disbelief. "Are you the only one who's entitled to have a little snog?"

"That's not what. . ." she snapped, the large lump forming in her throat preventing her from finishing the statement. She took a deep breath and slumped back to the ground. She lifted her eyes, now rimmed with tears, to his flashing blue ones. "What do you mean . . .snog?" When he rolled his eyes, she clarified herself. "No . . .I know what a snog is; but why did you say that I was having one?"

Spike sighed and took a seat next to Buffy once again. He squeezed his eyes shut, not wanting to face her when he spoke the next words. "The other day . . .I saw. . ."

Buffy gasped and lifted her hand to her mouth when she realized what he was referring to. "Angel."

Spike turned his eyes to the woman next to him and nodded slowly, trying to control the anger, fear, and confusion rising within him.

"Spike-" she started, taking his hand, "I don't know what you think you saw. . ." When he turned his face away from hers, she gently turned him towards her again, forcing him to look in her eyes. "But I did NOT kiss Angel."

He searched her eyes, desperate to find the truth within them, but he still couldn't understand what she was saying. He'd seen it- his eyes hadn't lied! He'd SEEN them kiss.

It was like she'd read his mind. "No," she said simply, shaking her head. "He kissed me." She paused for a moment, and then giggled quietly. "If you can call THAT a kiss, anyway."

Spike looked at her, eyes filled with hope. "So, you're not. . ."

"No," Buffy said simply.

He let out a sigh of relief, and looked back to the stars. "Thank god," he muttered under his breath.

Buffy dropped his hand and looked down to the ground again. "But that still doesn't answer my question about you and Dru. . ."

"Yeah, I pass the time with her," his voice lowered to barely above a whisper, "I TALK to her because I can't talk to you." Buffy nodded numbly, understanding perfectly. "You must be daft to think that some other girl could mean anything to me." He used the pad of his thumb to wipe away the lone tear that had fallen to her cheek. Her eyes fluttered closed and he used the opportunity to lean in and press his lips to hers.

Buffy moaned into the kiss and slowly allowed his tongue access into her mouth. The kiss started off tentative, and sweet; but Buffy soon felt the heat rise in her body, and snaked her arms around Spike's shoulders, pulling him closer to her to intensify the kiss. 'I love his mouth . . .' she thought as she nibbled on his bottom lip. 'He tastes so good. . .' She climbed atop his lap, straddling his legs. 'I need him right now-'

"Wait!" Buffy said as she pulled back from the kiss, gazing dizzily at the man in front of her through hooded eyes. "We need to slow down, before it gets out of control - like usual."

Spike was panting slightly from the intensity of their impromptu make out session. "I totally agree," he breathed, before his hands traveled to rest on Buffy's backside, seemingly of their own volition.

Buffy's hands traveled up to Spike's hair, and she began absently twirling the soft locks between her fingers. "We should take it slow. . .maybe try out being friends for a while."

Spike squeezed her ass gently, and Buffy watched mesmerized as his tongue shot out to lick his lower lip slowly. "Friends . . .definitely. . ."

Buffy leaned her forehead against his as her eyes fluttered close. Swallowing heavily in her throat, she spoke only slightly above a whisper. "Friends can kiss, right?"

"Absolutely," he said quickly, before moving his hand to her neck, pulling her towards him again. He crushed his lips to hers, and she eagerly thrust her tongue into his mouth. She massaged his tongue with hers slowly at first, then quickened the pace.

Spike moaned as Buffy wiggled in his lap, causing his erection to spring to life. Lightly she pushed him backwards, to lay flat on the ground fully, so she could lie on top of him. They continued to kiss as Spike smoothed one hand up the back of Buffy's shirt, lightly running his fingertips over the smooth skin beneath. Needing to feel him as well, Buffy moved her hands beneath the front of his t-shirt. His stomach muscles twitched as she grazed over his belly button, causing his erection to swell even more.

Buffy tore her lips away from his mouth, and began a new attack on his neck. Spike arched slightly off the ground as she nipped at his jugular while rubbing her center against him. He slowly moved his hands to her small ass, and began kneading it in time with her gyrations.

The friction was almost too much for her; she needed him NOW. Buffy rose up, so she was now sitting across his pelvis. Spike groaned as he felt run her fingernails across his jean-clad erection, before unfastening his fly. She quickly removed him from the constraints of his pants, before lying flat against his body once more. They kissed hungrily, neither able to keep their eyes open, as Buffy held his cock firmly in one hand, and pulled aside her shorts with the other. Spike's hands tangled into her long blonde hair and gently massaged her scalp. Buffy broke off the kiss, and rested her forehead to his. They both gulped for air, and squeezed their eyes closed, as she brought him to her entrance.

The moment the head of his penis probed her opening, two pairs of eyes darted open, realizing for the first time what was happening. Both Buffy and Spike froze, and stared at each other for a few moments before breaking away.

Buffy scrambled off of him, and pulled her shorts back into place. She took a few steps away from him, and crossed her arms beneath her breasts protectively.

Meanwhile, Spike jumped up and tucked himself back into his pants, before zipping up quickly. He bolted to the other side of the duster, away from Buffy, trying to regain control over his traitorous body.

Buffy stared at the ground and let out a nervous giggle. "I don't think friends do THAT."

Spike chuckled and shook his head. "Definitely not. . ."

They gazed at each other longingly, before Buffy finally turned her eyes back to the ground. "So . . .we should try . . .you know . . .being friends for awhile." Spike nodded, knowing she was right. "Try to learn how to relate to each other WITHOUT the orgasms," she lifted her eyes to his and gave him a small smile, "make it about US for awhile."

Spike's face broke into a huge grin at her words - remembering that he had used them once before. Granted, it would be hell not touching her, but if this meant that she wanted to try to develop something deeper between them, then it was a sacrifice he was willing to make. "I think I can manage that," Spike said as he leaned over to collect his duster. He draped the black leather coat over his left arm before walking towards Revello.

"Where are you going?" Buffy asked in confusion, as he walked away from her.

He stopped and turned to face her. "Friends are allowed to walk each other home, right?" He offered her his elbow, and she giggled, before running over to loop her arm through his.

Less than 30 seconds later they reached her back steps.

"So I guess this is good night," she said as she pointed to the door, letting her eyes fall ever so briefly over his lips.

He quickly stuck out his hand, and she shook it, trying to ignore the sparks that shot through her body when he lightly brushed his thumb over the back of her hand. "Goodnight."

"'Night," she said quietly as he walked off into the night. She went to open the door only to stop when she heard the sound of footsteps approach once again. There was Spike, at the bottom of the steps, with a serious expression plastered on his handsome face.

"We're not friends," he said simply.

Buffy felt her heart drop into her stomach. "What? Why?"

He looked directly into her eyes, trying to convey the meaning of the words. "We'll NEVER be friends."

Buffy felt her heart return to its normal position in her chest, before it began pounding wildly. "I know," she whispered. They contemplated each other for a moment before nodding in agreement.

Spike watched her slip inside Revello, before heading back to The Crypt. 'We'll be in love till it kills us both.' He looked down at the duster draped across his arm, imagining what almost had happened atop it not five minutes earlier, not to mention what happened beneath it on the bus. 'We'll fight, we'll shag,' he recalled the painful words they'd shouted at each other over the last two weeks, we'll hate each other till it makes us quiver, but we'll never be friends.' He smiled sadly at the cabins as he passed by, watching as flashlights flickered behind darkened windows. 'Real love isn't brains, children, it's blood - screaming inside you to work its will. reached into the pocket of his duster, and caressed the contents tenderly. "I may be love's bitch, but at least I'm man enough to admit it," he said aloud, before tucking the piece of paper back into his pocket. He had found the letter he had written to Buffy inside the pants she left at The Crypt that morning. Saying that he was surprised to discover she was carrying around his love note, would be a definite understatement. 'We'll never be friends, but I guess we can pretend for a little while.'

tbc...

Chapter Thirty-Three: Friends, Lovers & Leather Pants

DAY 15

Buffy woke up the next morning feeling refreshed and ready to face the world. Her ‘talk’ with Spike the night before had helped make things clear. She now knew that he wanted her, and only her - that Drusilla meant nothing. Not to mention, that she’d finally gotten it through to Spike that she didn’t have romantic feelings for Angel. They had decided to be ‘friends,’ or at least pretend to be until they could really be together without hurting each other - and Buffy was ok with that.

Buffy scanned the cafeteria, ‘Let’s see if it works,’ and plopped down next to Spike, who was resting his head on the table. “Morning sleepy-head,” she said, ruffling his hair.

Spike shot up and looked at the culprit; shocked when he realized it was Buffy. Remembering what they had talked about, he tried to recover quickly. “Hey, princess, I was just trying to get some beauty sleep.” He examined her eyes, and smirked at her. “Looks like I’m not the one who needs it.”

“This coming from the man who takes fashion advice from an 80’s has-been?” She rolled her eyes, and quickly shot a hand out to twist his nipple.

“Hey!” Spike yelped, covering his chest. “Those are my man nipples you’re messing with.”

“’Oh, my man nipples,’” she mocked. “It’s only fair trade,” she raised an eyebrow at him, “Oh well, I guess not everyone enjoys a little rough play.” She stood up from her chair and looked around the cafeteria. “I guess I should try to find some new hottie to harass; perhaps someone who enjoys my bad girl side.”

Spike chuckled as he watched her flounce off towards the line. ‘Ok, so maybe it won’t be that bad. . .This flirtatious banter’s kind of fun.’

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

“5-6-7-8,” Buffy instructed the group of girls on the stage in front of her, who were singing and dancing to “A Bushel and a Peck,” from Guys & Dolls. “That’s great! And . . .He loves me?’ Buffy struck pose, which the girls mimicked. "He loves me not?" They hit a new pose. "He loves me?" Buffy hit a pose again, but this time the girls didn’t quite keep up, and began giggling. ‘He loves me. . .Hey! What is going on here?” she asked the laughing teenagers. They couldn’t talk through their giggling, so she turned around to see Spike mocking the poses behind her. “That is so not funny!” she said, trying desperately to be serious. But he continued to pose with one hand on his hip and the other across his forehead, while puckering his lips and bouncing up and down. She couldn’t contain her laughter and pushing him out of the pose. “Out!” she exclaimed, pointing to the back of the theater.

Spike shook is head. “No can do, pet. Oz sent me over to work out the lighting with you for this show.” He looked to the girls on the stage. “Plus, I kinda thought you would fit me in this number. I bet I’d look really cute in red and white checks. What do you think, sweet bits?” The girls giggled again and started begging Buffy to let Spike be in the show.

“I don’t think so,” she responded, shaking her head. She walked over to the piano and instructed the accompanist to continue running the number and to follow Dawn’s instructions. Drusilla was teaching Fun & Games this period, so the teenager was her only assistant.

Spike followed Buffy over to the lighting booth, and watched her jump to grab onto the ledge. She stuck her foot into the corner of the riser, and began pulling herself up. Spike gazed happily at her backside and at one point, even gave her a little boost - when she tensed up, he couldn’t help himself, and squeezed her right ass cheek. He quickly pulled himself up and stood up beside Buffy in the booth. She gave him simple instructions on how to work the system then pulled out an extra script for him to take notes in the margins. Soon they were just watching the girls on the stage. “Did you choreograph that, luv?”

Buffy blushed and nodded, afraid of what he might say.

“It’s quite good. How’d you get 30 teenage girls to do that?”

Buffy smiled brightly and shrugged her shoulders. “I try to make it fun for them, I guess. The more challenging it is, the more they’ll want to work on it.” She leaned towards him and whispered conspiratorially. “Plus, it doesn’t hurt to make it a little sexy. Or at least make them think it is.”

Spike laughed and poked her in the side. “Trying to corrupt the little girls already, are you?”

Buffy yelped as he began tickling her sides. She finally managed to fend him off, only to find herself staring deeply into his eyes. Breaking the eye contact, she moved her attentions back to her own script. "You know, there is one place in the show we may need you. . ." she said quietly.

Spike cleared his throat and began paging through his copy of Guys and Dolls. "Really?" he asked with a little too much interest. "Where's that?" He tried covering for his previous excitement, but Buffy was already gaping at him.

She giggled and told him to turn to the opening of the second act. "There's this part in the show where the crap game gets broken up by the police and all the gamblers run across the stage in a panic. We usually try to pull in a few staff members to liven it up."

"I guess I can do that," he shrugged, trying to hide his smile.

Buffy suppressed her own smile and went back to the script. "We could probably use you close to the end of the first act too - in the bar scene at Havana." When he quirked an eyebrow at her she continued explaining the scene. "Basically, everyone gets drunk and a big fight ensues. You'll be able to pretend to bash a few heads in," she said, smiling, knowing he would enjoy that. "Plus, I think Angel might be doing it."

"I'm in," he said, without a second thought. He had been waiting to unleash it on the poof; nothing but fists and . . .well, fists.

"Great!" Buffy exclaimed, before pulling him into a hug.

Spike was taken aback by the action, and found himself holding onto her a little longer than necessary.

Buffy slowly pulled away and gazed at him briefly before picking up a notepad from beside the light board. She jotted down a note and gave him the piece of paper. "Just bring that down to the costume shop."

Spike smiled and moved aside to allow her to exit the light booth. As she passed by she accidentally grazed against him, causing a small sigh to escape both their lips. She slid down the side of the booth and hopped to the floor. Before he followed, he glanced down at the piece of paper she’d handed him. 'Bloody hell!' He jumped over the side and jogged over to Buffy. "What exactly does this mean by 'Havana Dancer'?"

Buffy chuckled. "You said you wanted to be in the show, so . . . "

Spike raised his eyebrows at her, and shoved the note in her face. "But when it says “ruffles” and “leather pants” you don't actually mean . . ."

"I'll see you tomorrow morning for rehearsal, my little Latin lover," she winked at him and ran back to the stage.

Spike groaned, shoved the note into his pocket, and walked from the theater; not noticing the fuming brunette lurking in the corner.

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Buffy and Willow walked out of the cafeteria, giggling happily about their campers' misfortunes.

"Can I talk to you for a second?"

Buffy eyed the blonde in front of her curiously. "Sure Darla, what's up?"

Darla shot an eye to the redhead. "I actually meant, in private - one on one."

Buffy shrugged and looked over to her friend. "Sure," Willow nodded and ran off to catch up with Oz. "What did you want to talk about?"

Darla waved her hand, indicating for Buffy to join her on the secluded bench around the corner. Buffy looked at her oddly and took a seat. "Is everything ok, Darla? Something wrong with your kids?"

The taller blonde stood in front of her with her arms crossed. "Who do you think you are?"

"Excuse me?" Buffy asked, taken aback by Darla's sudden coldness.

"I know you're the owner's daughter, and you think you're hot shit, but does that give you the right to run around like a little slut, playing every guy on campus?" the angry woman spat.

Buffy stood, up and attempted to walk past Darla. "I don't need to take this!"

Darla grabbed Buffy by the shoulders and pushed her back to the bench. "Oh, I think you do."

Buffy's mouth dropped open wide when she saw the look of fury flash over Darla's features - she looked almost demonic.

"Do you know how long I've been with Angel? Do you?!" Buffy began to speak, but was only interrupted by Darla. "To me, it's been like generations!" Buffy nodded, not wanting to incur any further wrath. "There was a time when we shared everything. He had the chance to come home with me, to be with me forever, but he threw that away because of you. YOU!! A little bimbo with no brains, no style, and no class!" Darla eyes flashed gold at the girl in front of her, before she had to look away.

"Darla, I don't know what you're thinking, but I'm NOT . . ."

Darla raised her tear-filled eyes to Buffy's large green ones. "I know we've never really been friends, but how could you do this to me?" Her voice broke with a loud sob.

Buffy couldn't believe it. She had never seen Darla express any kind of emotion, let alone cry. She always seemed so . . .together. "Darla, it's NOT . . ." Buffy stood up and reached for the girl in front of her.

Darla pulled away from Buffy's touch. "I know what you and your little friends think of me. 'There goes Darla, the ice queen.' But, you know what?" Darla put one hand over her heart and finally allowed the tears roll down her cheeks freely. "I may come off like a cold bitch, but that's not me. Sometimes, I have to do that to . . ." She took a deep breath before continuing again. "There’s a real person inside of me that feels too; just like everyone else. I may not show it very often - but she's there." Darla sniffled, and wiped her hand across her face, to clear the wetness from her eyes.

Buffy looked down at the ground, ashamed of herself. "I'm sorry."

"For what?" Darla huffed. "For being a stuck-up bitch or manipulating Spike and Angel like a little cock tease."

"Now that's enough!" Buffy yelled, pointing in the other woman's face. She took a moment to compose herself, so she wouldn't tear Darla's pretty blonde hair out. "Listen to me very carefully," she said slowly and evenly. "Something happened with Angel in LA, and I'm sorry about that; but NOTHING since then. My interests lie elsewhere," she gave the blonde a pointed look before continuing. "If there is anything going on, it is completely one-sided. So maybe you should go take out some of your pent up aggression on the real source of the problem - namely, Angel." Buffy crossed her arms over her chest and sat back down on the bench.

Darla took about a minute to let Buffy's words sink in. Realized that it probably wasn't really Buffy's fault, she sunk to the bench and really let her pain consume her. Buffy sat in silence while Darla released everything she had been holding inside. After a few minutes, Darla took a few deep breaths and whispered so quietly that Buffy had to strain to hear her. "I think I love him."

Buffy nodded, and placed a tentative hand to the girl's back. "Have you told him how you feel?"

Darla sat up straight and rubbed her eyes, before looking at Buffy like she was a complete idiot. "Come on, it's been over three years! I'd think he'd know by now!"

Buffy laughed, and looked up to the sky, shaking her head. She finally lowered her gaze back to Darla. "If I've learned one thing so far this summer, it's that you can't always assume that people know what you want or need."

Darla tilted her head to the side. "You too, huh?"

Buffy smiled. "Yah, me too."

"Why do guys have to be so confusing? One second they're . . ."

"All kissy and lovey-dovey and the next they're cuddling with someone else?" Buffy finished. When Darla nodded, she continued. "They're idiots!" The two girls laughed together at the stupidity of the male species. "But at the same time, we don't always give them much to go on."

Darla gave Buffy a weak smile. "No . . .I guess not."

"So, maybe you should . . ." Buffy began, gesturing with her hands.

"Go talk to him," Darla stated. When Buffy nodded, Darla gave her a real smile. "You know, you're not the spoiled brat that I thought you were."

"And you're not the ice queen - with the rod the size of Alaska shoved up her ass - that I thought you were."

Darla shot Buffy a dirty look, but soon they were laughing, and swapping stories of misbegotten camp romances.

"This doesn't mean that we're friends or anything," Darla said, interrupting Buffy's story of Spike's Bronze serenade.

Buffy smiled, and shook her head. "Of course not."

Chapter Thirty-Four: Staying in Character

DAY 16

Willow rolled out of her bed, to the sounds of 'Good Morning Starshine' booming through the speakers. She'd barely gotten any sleep the night before. Buffy had called a 'best friend powwow' and the two had a 'girls only' movie night. Well, they hadn't actually watched any movies, and instead ended up talking about boys all night.

During the course of the evening, she'd learned about Buffy's plan to be Spike's friend for a while. Of course, Willow knew just how long that would last - she and Xander had a bet going and she had placed money on 72 hours, while the brunette had guessed a mere 48. Overall, she was happy that Spike and Buffy had decided to take it slow for a bit - the sex was definitely getting in the way of the two of them developing a meaningful relationship. Buffy was still skittish about Spike leaving for London at the end of the summer, but Willow knew that if they worked though their issues slowly, that problem would resolve itself.

She had yet to have 'the talk' with Oz. Frankly, she was afraid of causing any problems. Everything was going so well between her and the guitar player; she didn't want to jinx it. She didn't tell Buffy about not talking to Oz, because, seeing how gung-ho Buffy was being about openness and honesty, she had a feeling the petite blonde would bite her head off. 'Geez, one day living with her new outlook and she's turned into the poster-woman for. . .something. She's basically turned into the anti-Buffy while I'm freaking out. Is this some sort of alternate universe?'

Willow sighed and pulled her hair back into a low ponytail. She spotted the t-shirt near her pillow, and couldn't help but smile. Oz had snuck into her cabin after she finished up with Buffy and they had cuddled all night - it had been really nice. She felt a large knot forming in her stomach. 'What if everything goes all weird? What if it doesn't . . . ?' "Ow!" she shrieked at the sudden pain in her hand. She looked down at the bright red mark and realized that she had slapped herself instinctively. 'Definitely bizarro-world. . .'

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

Spike entered the small dance studio with a feeling of dread coursing through his body. 'How the hell did you get yourself into this? That's right . . .you wanted to impress Buffy, and take advantage of any extra time you could spend with her.' He walked towards the mirrors that lined the far wall, and spoke to the reflection. "It's alright. You can do this. It's just like the bleedin' welcome song, and you got through that."

"Trust me. This is going to be much worse."

Spike turned around to see Buffy standing in the doorway, her small dance bag hanging over her shoulder. She gave him a small smile and approached him. "Thank you for doing this, you're really helping us out. None of the guys in the cast were comfortable doing the role."

Spike nodded and gazed at Buffy's smooth neck as she pulled her hair into a knot atop her head. He cleared his throat and tried to remain calm. "Should we begin then?"

Buffy nodded and led him through a quick warm up. She caught him staring at her ass in the mirror a number of times, and could only smile in response. "Ok, let's get started." Taking his hands in hers, she led him to the center of the room. He tensed up the moment she placed his hands to her hips. Looking up at him she instructed softly, "It's ok, just relax." She took another step closer to him so their bodies were only inches apart.

Spike reveled at being so close to her. He silently begged his body to cooperate; he didn't want to pop one right there and ruin this 'thing' they had started.

Buffy realized that maybe this wasn't the best way to start a friendship. If her rapid heart rate, and increased breathing were any indication, the proximity of their bodies would probably only lead to one thing. She stared deeply into his eyes and tried to get him to relax - the pause was meant for her as well. "We're going to start off slow, alright?" Spike gulped and nodded. "First, keep bracing my back with you right hand, like you are now. Now, take the other and hold mine out like this." She extended her arm, and took his hand. "The male dancer doesn't have to do too much in the scene, just basically be the girl's prop. But there are a few steps to learn." Spike took a deep breath and nodded. She taught him the cha-cha, and a few spins as well. He wasn't that bad, but she could tell that he really wanted to please her.

"Now comes the fun part," Buffy said, taking a quick swig of her water. "Come here," she waved him towards her. He slowly approached her and Buffy felt the heat rise in her body once more. She knew what was to come. "Brace both your hands behind my back again."

"Like this?" he asked softly, as he pulled her closer to him, holding her tightly.

"Yeah," Buffy said, her voice wavering. She cleared her throat, and tore her eyes from his. "We're going to do a couple of dips now. Just hold me tightly, and I'm going to arch backwards." Buffy tried to relax as she slowly rolled back, and brought herself up by her stomach muscles. "Good. But hold me a little tighter - so I don't have to pull myself up so much."

"Ok," Spike pulled her closer so she was nearly flush against him. He left one hand on her lower back, and inched the other between her shoulder blades. "Better?"

The woman gulped and nodded. "Let's try it again." As she leaned back this time, she felt their hips touch. He circled her around, using one of his arms to direct her movements. He brought her back to his level and they stared at each other for a moment, noses nearly touching. "Wow," she breathed. She broke the spell and moved back a few feet. "Um, that was much better."

Spike smirked and licked his lips lightly. "It's not perfect yet; I think we need lots more practice."

Buffy blushed. "No, I think you got this one down." When he pouted she added, "Don't worry, there's another one we need to do before we put it all together."

She took a few tentative steps towards him. "Brace my back with your right hand." He did so, and pulled her towards him. She gulped, and squeezed her eyes closed. Slowly she lifted her right leg and rested it against his left hip. "Now hold me here," she said, taking his left hand and placed it on her outer thigh.

Spike squeezed her leg gently, and took a tiny step towards her, effectively closing the gap between them. Buffy opened her eyes, at the sensation of being pressed this intimately against him. 'How am I going to get through this?' she thought, as she gazed into his darkening eyes.

Spike was running over soccer plays in his head, trying to control his forming erection. He could feel her heat through the thin material of his running pants, and mind was battling his body for control. "Now what?" he asked, voice trembling.

"Dip me again," she stated softly.

Spike nodded and took a deep breath. 'I can do this...I can do this.' When she arched back this time, her hips moved towards him, pressing her sex into his body. 'Shit...no I can't.'

Buffy gasped, as she felt him spring to life. As he brought her up, her body shifted so as to rub against him. A small sigh escaped her lips at the friction against her clit.

"Ok?" Spike asked, softly, knowing she had felt his erection.

Buffy nodded, and avoided his eyes, choosing instead to look over his shoulder. "Good, let's try it again."

Spike's eyebrows shot up at her words; but, if this was the way she wanted to play it - so be it. He slid his hand up her leg, and cupped her backside. As he dipped her, he squeezed her ass so as to press his erection into her more forcefully.

"Uuuuh," Buffy moaned, then bit her lip to quiet herself. Spike examined the beautiful face in front of him. Buffy's eyes were closed tightly, a light sheen of sweat lined her brow, and her lower lip was caught between her teeth.

Buffy's legs wobbled beneath her, and she was having trouble standing. This did not go unnoticed to Spike so he tried to brace her more tightly. Buffy gulped and opened her eyes to stare at him. "Now..." she started, voice shaking, "let's do it one more time-" A small sigh escaped her lips, when his hips circled slowly, "Ahhhuumm...I mean, try it a little faster." At the last word, she thrust her hips at his quickly, eliciting a groan from his lips, "before we put it all together."

They were both panting now, neither willing to acknowledge what was really going on. They didn't want to break this facade of 'friendship' just yet. Spike dipped her quickly, causing him to groan and her to let out a low moan. Before she was fully upright, he dipped her once more. His nostrils flared, and his eyes rolled back in his head at the hot friction at the center of their bodies.

"Ah...YES!" she shrieked. When he brought her back up, her body was trembling almost uncontrollably. "That was perfect."

Spike smiled and looked at her through hooded eyes. "Thanks. I guess I'm a natural."

She lowered her leg, but didn't move away from him; she liked the closeness and didn't want to lose the contact just yet. Using the edge of her t-shirt, she wiped the sweat from her brow. As she did that, the slightest amount of skin poked through. Spike slid his hand from her back around to her stomach, lightly feeling her smooth skin. Her stomach fluttered before he dropped his hand to his side. His hips pulsated against her, trying to relieve some of the tension in his cock, but it only made it worse.

"Maybe we should call it a day," Buffy said, her voice shaking.

Spike inhaled sharply through his nose, and nodded. "That's probably a good idea."

She moaned softly as she responded, thrusting her hips in time with his. "Uhh...yeaaaah...there's something I need to do back at my cabin."

Spike growled low in his chest, and squeezed his eyes shut. He slowed down the pace of their movements, making it even more excruciating. "Me too...I ahhhhh...have something to take of as well."

They both opened their eyes and stared at each other briefly before pulling apart. Buffy ran towards her bag, while he gathered his things. They reached the door at the same time and froze. Spike quickly motioned that she could go first. When they were both outside Buffy turned to Spike. "Well-" she started.

"Bye!" they yelled at the same time, before taking off in opposite directions, towards their respective cabins. They both desperately needed to...take care...of a few things.

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

Buffy exited Revello through the back door, heading towards the cafeteria for lunch. She had been so turned on after her 'dance' with Spike, that she'd spent the rest of the morning in her room . . .taking care. . .of a few things. 'I have to put a stop to this. I can't do it anymore.'

Spike really wasn't going to be the Havana Dancer in the show; she just needed one of the counselors to show the guys that the role was ok; that it wasn't 'gay,' as they called it. What had started as a little joke had quickly changed into something else. She had decided to have a little fun with him, but instead, she had a little TOO much fun. She'd even 'sexed' it up a little - to make it a little more interesting. There was NO WAY she'd ever let 14 year olds do a dance THAT sexy. Plus, her mom would have a fit. 'I'll tell him right now,' she thought as she marched over to the cafeteria door. She spotted him inside, swinging one of the youngest campers around the room. 'Or, maybe, AFTER his 'costume fitting.' It would be really FUNNY to see him tight leather pants and...'

Before Buffy could finish the thought, she was pulled aside and found herself sitting across from Angel on the same bench she had occupied with Darla just the day before.

"Um, Angel...what's going on?" Buffy asked, eyeing him curiously.

Angel stood back up immediately and began to pace in front of the bench, unsure of where to begin. He ran one hand through his hair, cringing when in got stuck in his hair gel. Making a face, he wiped the sticky substance on his shorts and turned back to Buffy. "I've been thinking things over since we talked - especially what you said about me not having to be my father - and I've decided..." he took a deep breath, "that this really isn't working for me anymore."

Buffy's mouth dropped wide. "What?" she asked. 'Does he think that...?'

"Come on, Buffy..." He gave her a knowing look and squatted in front of her. "I'm not stupid. There are things at work here that supersede whatever feelings you and I may, or may not, have for each other."

'Is he actually trying to break up with me? Buffy was dumbstruck, this was definitely not what she expected. "Um, Angel...I don't-"

He didn't let her finish and resumed his pacing. "Plus, I don't think either one of us is going to be all that upset if this-" he stopped walking and pointed between them. "-doesn't work out."

'Has everyone gone completely crazy?!' Buffy nodded, deciding to play along. "What brought on this sudden revelation?"

"Well, I saw you and Spike talking in the lighting booth yesterday," he explained, taking a seat beside her. "It really pissed me off. My first instinct was to break it up and tell him to stay away from my woman."

"Angel..." Buffy started. She wanted to stop him before he made a complete fool out of himself. 'Although, it is pretty funny...'

"Shhh." When he placed his finger to her lips, Buffy had to fight to suppress a giggle. "But then, I realized it didn't really bother me...seeing you with him...the way you were together...it was right."

Buffy gulped and tried to look at him apologetically. "I'm sorry," she said quietly, placing her hand over his.

"Don't be!" The blonde's head shot up in surprise. "I had a long talk with Darla last night."

Buffy nodded. "I talked to her too. She seemed really upset."

"Yah, well, we worked a few things out." He explained. "No sex - just conversation. It was weird, but nice." Buffy looked at him with raised eyebrows. "I know this sounds strange coming from me- " he paused and took a deep breath. "-but, I think I love her."

Buffy's eyes went wide at the admission. In all the years she had known Angel, he never was one to speak freely about his feelings, except for that one small moment after the soccer game.

Off her confused look, he went on, "You know, it's ok to give into your emotions Buffy. Take a few risks. I always tried to be closed off; focus on the next conquest..."

She nodded again, knowing very well that she was one of those conquests.

"But after this whole thing with you and Darla - I've realized that there's more to life than getting laid."

Buffy's mouth dropped open; this was definitely NOT the same Angel from just a few days ago.

"Sometimes you just need that one person that - for the sake of pulling a Jerry Maguire - completes you," he said chuckling.

Buffy felt tears form in the corners of her eyes. 'Why is it that everyone else can figure these things out, except for me? Even Angel isn't afraid of following his heart - laying it all on the line.'

Angel lifted his hand to her face and wiped away her tears. "Don't worry. You'll be fine."

Buffy swallowed hard and tried to control herself. She didn't want to cry like a baby in front of Angel. She may not have feelings for him anymore, but he still was one of her oldest crushes. Plus, she really didn't like getting mushy in front of many people.

He patted her on the head. "You'll get through this. I know I'm a hard guy to get over, but I think you and Spike will make a pretty good couple."

That was enough to make Buffy's tears stop. 'He thinks I'm crying over him?!'

"Put on a brave face; soon, you'll forget all about me."

Buffy scrunched up her face, trying not to smile, and nodded. "Ok, well then, I think I better go." She began walking away and turned to face Angel again. "Thanks for letting me down gently. I don't know how I'm going to make it through this, but I'll try my best." When he nodded at her sympathetically, she turned and ran in the direction of the cafeteria. When she finally made it inside, she burst out laughing. 'What an egotistical jerk!' She spotted Spike across the room laughing with Dawn, Conner and Janice. 'Though, he does have a point.'

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

"Come on...let me see!"

"No way!" an angry British voice boomed from behind the curtain.

"Fine!" Buffy yelled, stomping towards him. "Don't come out." She flung back the curtain and saw Spike standing there in tight black pants, and a midriff top. The orange and black shirt was tight around his ribs, with big ruffled arms.

"Hey!" he backed away from her, trying to cover his body from her prying eyes.

"It's not THAT ..." Her eyes began to tear as she tried to hold in her laughter, "bad." He raised his eyebrows at her, and placed his hands on his hips. The image was too much, and she couldn't contain herself. Buffy double over in laughter and began snorting.

"You're not helping," Spike said flatly. When she continued to roll on the floor he tore the shirt from his body and began undoing his pants.

Buffy stood up and walked over to Spike, her breathing slowing. She placed a hand on his back. "I'm sorry," she spat out through her giggling.

He shrugged her hand off and moved away.

"Oh come on, it really wasn't THAT bad," she said with a small smile.

Spike turned around, his body only covered by the tight leather pants, the top button unclasped. Buffy gasped at the sight. 'Not so funny anymore, is it?' She swallowed and removed her eyes from the trail of hair beneath his belly button. "I'm sorry."

Spike clenched his jaw tightly, and inhaled slowly. "There's no way I'm wearin' THAT," he said, pointing to the orange ruffles in the corner. "And Angel can have these blasted leather pants - they're more his thing anyway."

Buffy gulped and shook her head. 'He looks so sexy, all angry and full of fury, sculpted chest heaving. I can just imagine what it would be like right now to have him . . .' "No!" she yelled out loud, trying to silence the voice in her head.

"No?! You can't be serious!" She looked at him in confusion. "Don't look at me like that," he shook his finger at her. "I'd rather be sacrificed to some hell god before puttin' that on again."

Buffy nodded quickly. "That's what I meant; you don't have to wear it."

Spike's expression softened. "Really?"

She gulped and nodded. It amazed her how easily he could change from looking like a sexual predator, to a hopeful little boy. "Really."

Spike sighed and ran his fingers through his hair. He looked up at Buffy who quickly avoided his gaze. "What aren't you telling me?"

Buffy took a step away from him. "You're going to be mad," she whined.

"Why would I be angry, Buffy?" he asked, clipping each word short.

"Because-" she started, freezing in place as she watched him stalk towards her. He was only inches from her now, and she stared up at his pursed lips. Her eyes traveled over his hard pecs, down to the leather pants, which hugged his package nicely. She gulped, and directed her attention back to his eyes. "-you just will."

Spike eyed the woman in front of him. He leaned towards her and captured her lips in a soft kiss. He pulled away and placed his hands on her shoulders. "That was a friendly peck to calm you down," he said with a small smile. "Now tell me what's wrong."

"Give me a second," she said before diving towards his mouth again. Buffy kissed him fiercely, thrusting her tongue deeply into his mouth, practically devouring him. When she pulled away, Spike was standing stunned before her, his eyes glazed over from the experience.

Buffy spoke quickly, trying to spit it all out before he could recover from the kiss-induced stupor. "You were never going to be the Havana dancer in the show - you're in the show, but not as that. I thought it would be funny to see how you'd react. . .and get you in the ruffled shirt. But really, I just needed you to let the guys know that it's ok to dance like that. So don't be mad, it was all in good fun." She paused for a moment, and he just stared blankly ahead.

Before he could say a word, she grabbed her bag from the chair and ran from the costume shop, calling over her shoulder, "Later!"

Spike gaped after Buffy, not knowing how to react. After a few minutes of standing in stunned silence, he began changing back into his normal clothes. 'Baby likes to play...I'll show her,' he thought as he began plotting his revenge. He moved his fingers to his tingling lips. 'At least it wasn't a total loss.'


Chapter Thirty-Five: The Call of Duty

Day 16 -- continued

"Mom, that's not fair!"

"Buffy, this has nothing to do with what's fair," Joyce said softly, trying to get her daughter to calm down. They were in the middle of the cafeteria, and she could not allow a shouting match to take place in front of the campers. "First, I am not your mother here; I am your boss. Second, a day off is a luxury, you have responsibilities that take priority."

Buffy leaned towards Joyce, "But I really need . . ."

Joyce sighed, "I know sweetie, you've been working really hard and you need a break; but these shows have got to get finished. We're way behind schedule."

Buffy nodded, and forced back the tears that were getting ready to spill from her eyes. "I know."

The older woman placed a gentle hand on her daughter's shoulder. "If a lot gets completed during the day, we can discuss you taking off a few hours in the evening, ok?"

Buffy nodded solemnly, "I understand." She rose from the chair and made her way back to her table. She couldn't help but think that if it were any other counselor, her mother would never have demanded they skip a day-off to work. 'Being the owner's daughter sucks.' Buffy plopped down in the seat next to Dawn, who was busy whispering something to Janice. "Forget whatever it is you're planning ladies, because I'm still going to be here tomorrow, to muck up all your scheming."

"What?" three voices asked at once.

Buffy looked around the table; Dawn and Janice were staring at her in shock, obviously upset that they wouldn't be able to carry out one of their sneaky pranks, Spike was frozen, a clear look of disappointment on his face. She hadn't seen him since the costume shop, and really couldn't take it if he were to yell at her for what she pulled. The way the evening was going, she'd probably burst into tears and fall into a coma, or something. "I'm on duty tomorrow. No day-off for Buffy this week..." she said with a pout.

Spike glanced over to the petite blonde. He had been planning on giving her the silent treatment through dinner and then resume their usual banter, but now he didn't have the heart. "I'm sorry to hear that, luv."

"Definitely not as sorry as we are," Dawn piped in, indicating herself and Janice.

"I'm sure," Buffy said, raising her eyebrows to the girl. "So, lift my spirits," she said sarcastically, "and tell me what Oz had planned for us all?"

Spike cleared his throat, and moved to the seat next to Buffy. "You sure you want to hear about it, pet?"

Buffy took a deep breath and nodded. "Could this day really get any worse?"

"I was the one trapped in neon ruffles, luv, so don't ask me," he said with a smirk, trying to get her to cheer up. It seemed to work, because the mention of his situation in the costume shop made a huge grin spread across her face. He cleared his throat, "Anyway, we were going to leave tonight for LA - stay at Oz's, check out a few clubs in the city, and explore Hollywood in the morning."

Buffy groaned, "That's not fair! Even though I was just there, I really wanted to show you. . .I mean, EVERYONE around my city," she quickly covered her little slip. After the whole Angel fiasco, and re-arranging the bus line-up at the beginning of camp, she wanted to make it up to him - spend time in Los Angeles, exploring the city together, like they should have before.

"Well, I could stay behind if you want me to," he said softly. He really didn't want to take the trip without her. Besides, a whole day with two couples didn't sound like much fun.

Buffy shook her head quickly, "No...you go," she gazed into his eyes momentarily then began playing with a napkin that was on the table. "You've never been to LA. Plus, you deserve a little break."

Spike placed his hand on her knee gently, "LA will always be there. I can go another time." He leaned in closer to her and tilted his head slightly to the side. "I could stay around here, so we could spend a little time together," he offered.

Buffy turned to face him, and gave him a small smile. As much as she would have loved that, she knew that she'd be spending most of her time in the theater. She shook her head and gave his hand a quick squeeze. "It's ok." When he raised his eyebrows at her, she re-emphasized her position. "Really, I'll be fine."

"Are you sure?" he asked one final time.

"Yah," she nodded. "I'm going to be working a lot anyway. I don't even know if I'm going to get any time off tomorrow night." Spike sighed and rose from the chair, allowing Buffy to grab his hand quickly. He turned to face her and met her wide thankful eyes. "Thank you, though...for offering. It means a lot," she said softly.

Spike took his free hand and patted the one that was holding his. "No problem, luv. If you change your mind, we're heading out about 9 or 10, I think."

She yanked his arm lightly, bringing him down to her level. "I know I don't deserve anymore of your help after what I did to you today, but ...do you think..."

"Spit it out, pet."

She avoided his eyes and looked to the ground. "Do you think you could come into the Guys & Dolls rehearsal tonight, before you go, and demonstrate the dance with me?" Off his raised eyebrows she elaborated. "I swear you don't have to wear ruffles OR leather." When he still didn't respond, she resorted to begging. "Please! We need to convince one of the guys to do the scene, or the whole Havana segment is shot."

Spike groaned and rolled his eyes. "Fine. But only since I feel sorry for you. I don't actually like doing that silly dance."

Buffy snorted, knowing exactly how much he 'hated' it. "We'll only do it once for them, that should be enough."

"Good," he said, before turning to walk away. Buffy giggled as he walked off, then was surprised to have him back at her side in a flash. "But if we have to do it two or three more times . . .you know . . .to convince 'em. . .that would be al'right," he said seriously. "For the good of the kids . . .and the show."

"Of course," Buffy said, trying to hold a straight face. "For the good of Sunny-D."

"Right then," he cleared his throat, "as long as we've got that straight." He stood tall and left the table for the food line, leaving Buffy fighting to sustain her calm demeanor. When he was finally out of sight, she burst out in laughter, startling the table of campers.

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

Spike and Buffy finished the dance - toned down for young eyes, of course - and turned to face their audience of kids, who were staring at them in silence. Buffy turned to Spike nervously, "I really thought that would work."

A young girl in the second row spoke up. "Now THAT was hot," Rona announced to the room. A few giggles sounded around through the theater.

Buffy saw a hand shoot up from the crowd. "Yes, Molly."

The teen stood up and looked around. "So are we all supposed to make out with him or somethin'? 'Cuz that would be al'right."

Spike blushed at the remark and finally noticed how close he and Buffy were standing and took a few steps away from her.

Buffy giggled nervously. "No, Molly. You don't get to make out with Spike." She walked downstage and jumped off to the main floor. Eyeing the kids knowingly, she continued her pitch. "But, whoever does this scene does get to do a few smoochies."

At that, a dozen hands waved eagerly in the air. Buffy smiled widely and turned to her dancing partner and mouthed a quick 'Thank you.'

Spike nodded and smiled shyly before turning to the youngsters in front of him. "I have to go now, so don't give Buffy a hard time." The girls began to whine, begging him to stay for the rest of the rehearsal. The boys didn't want him to go either, as it was kind of nice seeing such a macho guy lead the way.

Buffy quieted them down. "I'm sorry; Spike has to get back to his own responsibilities now. Everyone thank him for his time."

They all groaned and shouted words of thanks. Spike waved and gave a small bow before walking over to Buffy. "You sure you don't want me to stay."

"Get going," she said, giving him a playful push. "You need to finish up your own crap so you can hit the road with everyone else."

"Come on...I KNOW you wanna dance," he said, leering at her from underneath his eyebrows.

She laughed, and smacked him on the arm. "Shoo - I have a rehearsal to finish up."

He sighed, and jutted out his lower lip in a pout. "Fine, if that's the way you want it. I'll see you when I get back."

She nodded. "Thank you," she said sincerely, "and have a great time." As he left the theater she watched him leave sadly. She regained her composure and turned back to the group. "Ok, let's get to work."

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

"Where's Buffy?" Xander asked the group.

"She better get a move on - cause at this rate, we're not going to hit LA til dawn," Cordy whined.

"She had to stay back for rehearsals," Willow said, eyeing Spike, who silently threw his bag into the back of the van. "I guess her mom wouldn't let her out of it."

"Wow, that sucks," Cordelia said. "I guess being the boss' daughter isn't all about the great perks. I always thought she could get away with..."

"Well you thought wrong." Spike snapped. He took a deep breath and looked around at the group in front of him, all shocked at his outburst.

"I just meant..." Cordy started defensively.

"Don't worry about it," Willow said, placing a comforting hand on the girl's shoulder. "It's a common misconception."

Cordy nodded, and climbed into the van with Xander.

"Let's get going then," Oz said, as he made his way towards the driver's seat.

Willow walked over to Spike, who was staring off into the distance. "You ok?"

He stomped out his cigarette and turned to face the redhead. "Just kinda worried, is all. She's trying to be all strong about it, but I can tell she's in bad shape."

Willow smiled at the caring man. "She'll be fine." She paused, and squeezed his hand. "Besides, I wasn't asking about her."

He grinned at the perceptive girl, and nodded quickly. "I'll be ok, Red."

"Good...now get your cute butt in the van." She smacked him playfully on the backside and jumped into the passenger seat.

Spike looked around one more time, hoping that Buffy would miraculously appear with the news that her mom changed her mind, or even to ask him to stay. When he saw no sign of her he climbed into the back with Xander and Cordy, sliding the door closed behind him.

In the distance, Buffy watched Spike close the door to the van. She sighed, as the van pulled off into the night. "Well, I guess that's that," she muttered before walking back to Revello.


Chapter Thirty-Six: Separation Anxiety

Willow stole a glance to the back of the van, noting that everyone was fast asleep. They had been driving for a little over two hours, and the vehicle was silent - except for the low music from the radio and Xander's sporadic snoring. She turned to Oz who was staring intently at the road ahead of him, and then leaned her head to the passenger side window. Letting out a small sigh she began to speak very quietly, as not to disturb the sleeping bodies in the back. "So. . .Spike seemed pretty torn-up that Buffy couldn't come along."

Oz nodded, "I guess."

Willow took a deep breath and decided to continue her attempt to pry something - ANYTHING - from her monosyllabic boyfriend. "Who would have thought that after only two weeks he'd be so attached to her? I'd hate to see what happens at the end of the summer when he has to go home."

"Yah," was the only reply, from the seemingly oblivious driver.

Willow continued, "I don't know how they're going to survive it. They aren't even together now and it's all 'eeee,'" she squealed softly, raising her arms.

"So it seems," Oz said, furrowing his brows to see the road better.

Willow gulped, feeling the tears forming at the corner of her eyes. "Maybe it would be better if they just stopped whatever they're doing - before it gets too crazy. You know...before it hurts too much down the line?"

"Mmmm hmmm."

"Yeah, cut it off before they have to deal with the pain. Or...or maybe it won't be that bad, cuz Spike could go home to a new girlfriend or something." The redhead turned her face to look out the window into the darkness rushing past. "I mean, camp relationships rarely last after the summer is over. I wouldn't blame him if he found someone else right away and forgot all about the seven-weeks at Sunny-D-" Before she knew what was happening, Oz had pulled the van over to the side of the road and turned off the motor. "Oz?" she asked, looking at him curiously.

Oz turned to face the woman beside him. "This has nothing to do with Spike and Buffy, does it?"

Willow stuttered and tried to re-cover from his assessment of the situation. "Er...of...of course it is. What else would I be talking about?" she asked before quickly turning towards the window again, wiping her tears away before he could discover her fears about their relationship.

He faced the road, and gripped the steering wheel with both hands. "This time together with you has been great, but..."

Willow nodded, the stinging in her eyes returning at his statement. "Of course, I didn't think-"

"Let me finish," he said softly, turning back to his girlfriend. "I want you to know that this isn't just some summer fling for me..." Oz took Willow's small hand in his own and kissed it lightly. "Honestly, I didn't come to camp, wanting to find someone - but I did. And if it's alright with you, I'd like to just see where it goes - even when the summer is over."

Willow's eyes went wide and as she smiled, her face filled with hope. "Really?"

"Really," he nodded. When she leaned in to kiss him, he gently pushed her back. "But no more of the hypothetical scenarios, or games of any sort. You can talk to me about anything."

"Ok," Willow nodded rapidly. She leaned in to capture his lips in a sweet kiss. When she pulled away she was amazed to see that his eyes were still closed.

Oz's eyes slowly fluttered open and he gave Willow a crooked smile, sighing. "Willow kissage."

She giggled and gave him a longer kiss to tide them over before they made it to his apartment.

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

DAY 17

Buffy shook her head at the teenagers who were running all over the stage giggling and shrieking at one another. Taking a seat in the first row, she just sat quietly, stealing a quick glance at her watch. She had tried this tactic before with the younger kids, and it seemed to work much better than yelling.

Dawn was the first to notice Buffy's silence. She elbowed Janice in the ribs and pointed towards the instructor. Soon the sounds of 'Shhh!' and kids yelling 'Quiet!' filled the small theater.

Buffy just sat in silence until the very last kid had gotten the hint and shut up. She looked at her watch and then back to the teenagers on the stage, all now standing very still. "Wow, it only took five minutes that time." She stood up and walked towards the stage. "Too bad in that time we could have run the 'America' dance, 'Cool,' or even the entire 'Dance at the Gym'!" She smacked her hands to the stage, causing a few of the kids to jump. "You do know that today is supposed to be my day off, right?"

The kids stared at her in silence, frozen in fear.

"But I'm stuck here, busting my butt, trying to pull this show together in time for the performance next week-" Buffy chuckled and crossed her arms across her chest. "It's kind of funny - here I am giving you much needed extra rehearsal time, that could have been designated to another class...maybe one that actually cares about their show."

"We care..." a shaky voice popped up from the group.

"Really?" Buffy asked in disbelief. "Cause from where I'm standing it really didn't seem that way."

The teenagers looked to the ground in shame, not wanting to meet the furious eyes of their instructor.

"I only have two words for you."

"We suck?" Janice asked.

"No," Buffy said, shaking her head. "One. Week." She accentuated each word very clearly so they understood the severity of the simple statement. Looking around at the faces before her, Buffy made sure to catch every single pair of eyes up on the stage. "Now let's get to work."

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

"It's looking good."

"Thanks," Buffy replied, turning to face her mother.

"The show is really coming together Buffy - thank you," Joyce said, eyeing the teenagers up on the stage, who were now running through the 'Somewhere Ballet.' "Why don't you head back to Revello...take a load off..."

"But I still..." Buffy began; attempting to remind her mother of just how much needed to be done.

Joyce turned to her daughter and gave her a small smile. "Don't worry about it, you've done enough for one day."

Buffy's eyes went wide, and her mouth dropped open. "You mean I can...?" Buffy began to ask, afraid she might be misunderstanding her mother's words.

Joyce grinned and nodded. "Take the rest of the night off...you've earned it."

"Are you sure? There's still the..."

"Just go!" Joyce demanded. "Before I change my mind!"

"You don't have to tell me twice," Buffy said grabbing her dance bag before turning back to her mother. "Actually, you did, but . . .bye!" She said running from the theater. She really didn't know what to do with herself for the rest of the night, but she was glad that it wouldn't involve anymore screaming kids or jazz squares.

Joyce clapped her hands, halting the music. "Ok, I'm taking over for the rest of the period. Let's do it once again from the top." The woman took over Buffy's seat and began jotting down notes of mistakes and any bits that needed cleaning. When the number was finished she looked over the completely filled notepad. "Alright, let's start with the first pas-de-deux. Dawn I need you to..." As Joyce gave instructions she couldn't help but think just how much her daughter, as well as her daughter's champion, owed her. 'I'm expecting two big hugs tomorrow.'

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

Buffy walked into her room and threw her dance bag onto her chair. Suddenly, she was surrounded in darkness as a pair of hands covered her eyes. Buffy squealed and slammed her foot down on the culprit's foot. A loud 'Yeoooow!' filled the room and she turned around to see Spike sprawled on the floor holding his injured foot. "Spike?!" she asked in confusion.

"Not quite the reception I expected, pet. I thought you might be a tad happier to see me. Not to mention, that this foot," he lifted one leg in her direction, "was just about healed."

She rushed to his side and looked at him apologetically. "I'm so sorry. Aren't you supposed to be in LA right about now?" Spike groaned and leaned his weight on Buffy as she helped him limp over to her bed. When they were both seated, she began speaking again. "I mean, I saw you get into Oz's van."

Spike gave her a crooked smile and rubbed his ankle lightly. "Changed my mind. Didn't want to go a day without the pain and suffering that only YOU can cause, luv." Buffy smacked him playfully on the head and laughed when he yelped again. "See?"

"But, how did you know I was going to have some free time? I didn't even know."

"I didn't. So, this morning, I went to go see Joyce and convinced her to give you the night off. I told her how you couldn't live without me and that if you couldn't shag me silly you'd never get any work done at all."

Buffy blushed and smacked him again. "You so did not."

Spike grinned and quirked an eyebrow at the young woman beside him. "No, I really didn't. But I did tell her that you've been working really hard, and deserved a break." Taking a deep breath, he removed a piece of hair from Buffy's forehead, tucking it behind her ear. He let his hand linger next to her cheek for a moment before placing it in his lap. "What can I say? The Summers women can't resist me.

Buffy enveloped him in a big hug and whispered a quiet "Thank you." Enjoying the feel of his body, Buffy began running light circles over his back with her fingertips.

"You're very welcome," he whispered back, squeezing her tightly, before petting her hair with one hand.

Buffy extracted herself from his grasp and stared deeply into his eyes. "Really...thank you," she stressed again.

Spike found himself entranced by her eyes. Forgetting all about their little arrangement he leaned in closer, pressing his forehead to hers, allowing his eyes to close. "My pleasure."

She gulped and ran one hand down his tight left bicep. "So what did you have in mind...for tonight?"

"Hmmm?" he asked, rubbing her cheek lightly with his own.

Buffy sighed and lifted her free hand to tangle into his hair. "I said, what now? What's the plan?"

"Plan?" he asked, lost in the feeling of her soft skin against his own.

"Shower," Buffy said, running her hands down his firm chest, settling on his waist.

"Ok," he responded, placing a light kiss to her temple.

Buffy giggled and pushed him away. "No...I need to shower." Spike opened his eyes realizing how quickly he had fallen into the whole 'touching Buffy' thing once again. "I'm all stinky from rehearsal," she said, squishing her nose up in the cute way he loved.

"Right," he said, clearing his throat. "I'll just..."

"Go back to The Crypt and wait for me to finish getting ready," Buffy directed. She really didn't know what she would do if she came in from the shower, all naked and wet, and he was here waiting for her on her bed. Actually, she knew EXACTLY what she would do - and that wasn't part of their current arrangement.

"You sure?" Spike asked, rising from the bed. Taking her hands in his, he lifted her to her feet, and waggled his eyebrows at her. "I can get all those hard to reach spots...I'm very handy with a loofah."

Buffy's face flushed and her heart beat quickened at the thought of a Spike sponge-bath. "No." She waved one finger at him before pushing him backwards towards the door. "I'll meet you at The Crypt in twenty-minutes."

"Ok," he said with a sigh, leaning in the doorway. "But, I'll have you know, that bathing thing can get kind of tricky. So friends, on occasion, do assist one another."

Buffy rolled her eyes and slammed the door in his face.

"So you're sure then?"

Buffy giggled at the voice from behind the door, and relaxed when she finally heard him exit the cabin. She quickly gathered her things and headed towards the bathroom, making sure she had the correct body wash - not because HE liked it so much, but because it was HER favorite.

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

"Thank you for taking me to see that movie again - even though I've already seen it like 10 times."

Spike smiled, and shrugged his shoulders. "It's alright. Nicole Kidman in lingerie is definitely not a bad thing."

Buffy smacked him across the shoulder and continued walking through the campus. "Whatever. I would be mad, except Ewan McGregor is my future husband- so, drool away." She did a little skip, so she was a few paces ahead of him.

"Singing Obi-Wan does it for you, eh?" he asked, giving her sides a little poke.

She yelped and caught his hands with her own, trying to get him to stop his attack. When she finally broke free, she took off into the night, leaving Spike trailing behind. He finally caught up to her outside The Crypt, sitting on the back steps. "Slow poke," she said before running into the cabin.

Spike followed her inside, quickly making sure all the boys were asleep, and then entered his room, where Buffy was already sitting on his bed. Inhaling deeply, he closed the door behind him, quickly pushing the thought of ravishing her, out of his mind. "So...what now?"

"I don't care," she said before falling back to the pillows. "All I know is that I DO NOT want to go back to my own cabin."

Spike walked towards the bed and laid down beside her. "Well, what DO you want to do then?" he asked, clasping his hands behind his head.

Buffy rolled over to face the man beside her. "I could think of a few things I want to do, but they would be wrong."

"How so?" he asked, raising an eyebrow.

"They just would." She stated, running a finger over the scar above his eye. "How did you get this?"

Spike closed his eyes and concentrated on the feeling of her soft touch. "Remember how I told you I was a reckless teen?"

"Uh huh," she said in a hushed voice, trailing her fingers across his sharp cheekbones.

"Well, I once messed with the wrong bloke. I was in a pub in the East End, playing pool with a few of my mates and decided to take this chap for a ride. When he realized I was hustlin' him, he decided to take it out on my face - with a pair of brass-knuckles, no less."

"Why didn't your friends try to help?" she asked, tucking her hands underneath her chin.

Spike opened his eyes, and looked deeply into the green ones before him. "They did. But me - being the hard-ass I was - would have none of it. I was a bit pissed at the time, and likin' a good brawl, took him on." "Poor baby," Buffy giggled, before rubbing her thumb over his scar just once.

Spike blanched, and tried to defend his honor. "You should have seen him though - it wasn't pretty."

Buffy sighed and rolled over to her back once more. "Why do guys always do that? Try to prove their manhood with their fists- it's kinda lame."

Spike chuckled and poked her in the ribs. "Don't think I need my fists to prove my manhood, pet. You of all people should know that from personal experience."

Buffy laughed, "Whatever...someone's pretty sure of-" she turned to face him, and was met by a pair of stormy blue eyes, "him...self," she said with a gulp.

Spike raised one hand and placed it to her collarbone, sliding it slowly closer to her breast. "Maybe..." he whispered huskily, "you should go. Before..."

"Yeah," she responded softly, knowing exactly what was about to happen. "This could get..."

"Precisely." He nodded, moving his hand to her shoulder.

"Ok," she sat up and scooted towards the end of the bed. "I had a really good time tonight," she said, without looking back at him, afraid that if she did, she would never be able to leave.

"Me too." He didn't sit up from the bed, and just watched her walk towards the door.

Buffy grabbed onto the doorknob. "Spike?"

"Yeah, pet?" Came the voice from behind her.

She looked down to her feet, instead of in his direction. "Being the camp director's daughter means more than just extra responsibilities and proving myself." She paused to collect her thoughts, before beginning again. "It means watching people I care about disappear one by one, never to return again. But I'm always here; stuck with the memories that everyone else gets to lock in a little box and leave behind. It makes things...hard." She took a deep breath and began fiddling with the doorknob. "You see, I don't have the luxury of keeping things simple. I thought I could try, but that didn't work out." Buffy chuckled. "After that night it the day-off room, I realized just how much that couldn't work." She stopped laughing, and turned serious again. "That's just not me. I have strong emotions, and things go wacky because I know just how much it hurts when it ends. And it ALWAYS ends." When he didn't respond, she continued. "Sunny-D is like a bubble, separate from the real world. The thing is, bubbles eventually pop and life begins again. For me, this is it. My reality is the bubble AND the outside world...They are one and the same." Buffy sighed, and looked up at the ceiling. "I don't know if that makes any sense, or if I'm just babbling...I just thought you should know that..." With that she exited the room, closing the door softly behind her.

Spike lay still on his bed, stunned at the words Buffy had just spoken. She had never really expressed her fears to him before. Some of them he'd known, but hearing her speak them aloud was something else. He walked over to his mirror and examined the scar above his eyebrow. He thought about all the things that had happened in his life since the day he got it; just how much he had changed - the man he had become. With a sigh, he shuffled back over to his bed and curled up with his pillow, allowing the events of the past two weeks to rush over him and carry him off to sleep.

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