Ch.1

A/N: Okay, this fic came to me as I was working on my other fic, the Prophecy (insert shameless promotion here). I couldn’t get it out of my mind, so I wrote the outline out and I liked it. Buffy and Spike aren’t the Slayer and the Vampire. They’re two people who haven’t had much luck with love, who meet, and some other stuff that I can’t share with you now. It’ll spoil the story. Everyone is here, well, almost everyone from BtVS and AtS. Some characters will unfortunately be left behind.

Now, let me give you some background. I used elements from the movies “Serendipity and Fool for Love”. I used info from various interviews and my own imagination. I even have to give thanks to the people over at Literotica.com because I don’t write love scenes well, at all. So, I’m only going to put a few in here. This first chapter is NC-17. The rest probably won’t be, but I wanted to cover my ass.

Give me your opinion on this story. If you hate it, let me know, because it’ll go in the trash bin. If you like it, but think it can be improved, share your ideas with me. Hope you like this. Enjoy!!



Chapter 1

1999

“Tell me what you want?” He rasped against her mouth.

“You.” She said, reaching behind her to untie the straps to her blouse. She smiled as he groaned at the sight of her bare breasts. She arched her back, allowing him to capture a hardened nipple between his lips. She held his head to her breast, guiding him, pushing him harder onto it. She felt the ache between her legs grow and knew there was no turning back.

Vanilla. She smelled of vanilla. The scent threatened to overwhelm him.

He felt her fingers in his hair, heard her moans encouraging him. Like he needed any. Earlier, when she walked into the club, he’d been mesmerized. She had an air about her that commanded respect, attention. He’d been drawn to her, like moth to the flame.

He peppered her skin with kisses, trailing his tongue down the valley between her breasts till he reached her belly button. She yanked him up by his hair, forcing her mouth onto his. He ran his hands over her tiny waist, pulling her close. Her nipples had hardened into tiny pebbles, and he felt them striking his shirt. He reached around, lifting her, urging her to wrap her legs around his waist. She did, moaning at the feel of his desire pressed against her thigh. He took advantage of her open mouth to plunge his tongue inside. Their tongues battled, sliding slickly over each other. Buffy tilted her head to get a better angle, wanting to control the kiss, wanting to possess him, crawl inside him. Spike pulled away from her greedy mouth, smirking at the lust-glazed look in her eyes. She watched him with eyes sparkling like flawless green emeralds as his hand slid between their bodies, down her flat stomach to nirvana. Her eyes closed as he found her clit.

“Look at me.” He demanded, and she did, struggling to focus her eyes. She ran her tongue over her bottom lip, and he just had to nip it lightly with his teeth. Her fingers dug into his arms as he increased the friction. She was panting, her release only seconds away. She choked as he pulled his fingers away from her nub. Buffy gave him the look of death, but he only laughed and kissed her soundly on the lips. His fingers continued their journey sliding lower, past her folds, into her waiting heat.

Breathe, Buffy! Breathe! She reminded herself. Spike had to take deep breaths himself, as her inner muscles clutched tightly on his fingers. She was so deliciously tight, he felt his cock thicken inside the confines of his jeans.

“Oh, god.” She moaned as he added another finger inside her soaking depths. In and out. Out and in. Each thrust went deeper, stretching her. Her hips rolled in tiny mimicking movements with his stroking. He knew she was getting close to coming. He could feel her body tensing. Buffy bit her lip till it went white from the pressure.

“Um.. um..oh.” Her body jerked violently and spasmed. He drew her orgasm out by continuing to lightly flick her clit. Every pass caused Buffy to jump, till she slumped exhausted against his chest. When she came back to herself, she gave him a smile of pure satisfaction.

He was simply the most beautiful man she had ever seen, and he wanted her. His once clear blue eyes had darkened to an almost blackish blue. I could drown in those eyes.

Buffy kissed him chastely on the lips, but the direction her fingers were traveling wasn’t innocent in the least. They flitted down his chest, past his six pack. God, did he have a six pack. Her fingers deftly unbuttoned his jeans before grasping his cock in her tiny hand. Spike hissed from the contact, her touch electrifying his very being. He was already hard, but her touch seemed to make him harder if possible. All he knew was he would die gratefully if he could have one moment inside her depths. She obliged him by pulling her thong aside and guiding him to the entrance of her soul.

He thought he might burn instantly from the heat emanating from between her thighs. Then, he stopped thinking as he felt her position her heat over his shaft. His cock slipped eagerly inside, just barely passing her lips. She stared steadily into his eyes, then slowly slid down, engulfing him. They both moaned at the intenseness of their joining. Buffy felt stretched, full. Spike thought he might cum from the sheer pleasure of being held so tightly. Spike eased out of her, leaving only the head inside before plunging back in. Buffy tried to bring the fragmented pieces of her mind together, but she was too far gone. Right and reason shattered into pieces, blown to the wind. The only constant was the feel of his shaft piercing deep into her core. Buffy raised her legs, pulling him deeper inside. Her hands slid underneath his shirt, ripping the buttons apart. Buffy rubbed her nipples against his. Her head rolled back, her hair tickling her back. She felt his mouth on her neck, nibbling at the soft flesh.

Buffy leaned in, trying to capture his mouth. He lifted her hips, hitting her at a different angle, causing her to gasp harshly. What was he doing to her? Do you care? They teased each other’s lips, nipping and tasting, before Buffy finally sucked his tongue into her mouth.

Harder. Harder. She screamed, and opened her eyes at his deep laugh.

“Did I say that out loud?” She asked. He nodded, unable to actually form words. His fingers clenched tightly on her hips as her inner walls held his cock in a snug embrace, reluctant to let him go as he backstroked.

Their movements became frenzied, out of control. Buffy thought her pelvis would shatter from the brutal pounding it was getting, but she didn’t care. Spike was whispering in her ear, encouraging her to let go, to feel it. Buffy’s tenuous hold broke, and she came, bucking uncontrollably. Spike grabbed her hips, pressing her harder against the wall. He thrust once, twice, three times hard into her, his own release only moments away. He remembered his lack of protection. How he didn’t know. And pulled out, shooting his seed on the wall. Buffy dug her nails into his back as another orgasmic wave crashed over her, shaking her body. She felt lightheaded, drained. Spike rested his head heavily on her chest. The only action she could muster was kisses to his blonde curls. He looked up, fascinated with her passion swollen lips. They kissed slowly, savoring the sated feel of their bodies.

“That was amazing.” Buffy murmured breathlessly.

“Yes, it was.” Spike said, lowering her gingerly to the ground. Her knees shook and she held onto him for support.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

They regarded each other sheepishly, not the actions of two people who’d just fucked in the backroom of a club. Buffy tied the torn side of her thong. There really was no point in trying to salvage them, but it seemed icky to leave them in the trashcan. She winced as she straightened her skirt. Her whole body ached deliciously. She could still feel him inside of her, and she wondered if she would ever forget how he felt.

He didn’t want this night to end. Which was crazy. He didn’t know her. Well, he knew her in the biblical sense, but what was her name? When he’d first glimpsed her on the dance floor, swaying with wild abandon to the frenetic beat of the band, he’d been drawn to her. He sipped his drink, watching her over the rim. Buffy had felt his gaze on her, and had turned to stare pointedly at him. Neither looked away, and he had to smile at her spunk. She excused herself and walked boldly up to him. Not saying one word to him, she took his hand in hers, and led him to the dance. They’d danced slowly, sensuously rubbing their bodies together in rhythm to the music. Spike drew little circles on her back. No words had been spoken. None needed to. They’d felt the electricity, knew where it could lead.

“I really want to know what it would be like to kiss you.” Spike whispered to her.

She smiled at him, her green eyes twinkling with mischief. “I’d like that.”

That had been the spark to the fire, so to speak. She hadn’t meant to let the kiss get out of hand. She hadn’t meant to run her hands down his back to squeeze his butt. He hadn’t meant to moan as she pressed her hand into his crotch. She hadn’t meant for any of this to happen, but it did, and neither was sorry for it. How could they be when they felt so good, so alive?

He scrubbed his fingers through his hair, slanting his head and smiling at her. Devastatingly handsome, she thought.

“We kinda got this backwards, don’t you think?”

“What do you mean?” She asked.

“Usually, it’s dinner, drinks, then sex.”

“Yeah, I guess so.” She said shyly. “I’ve never done anything like this.” She admitted.
“Me neither.” He strode over to where she stood, pulling her into his arms. She didn’t resist, instead she laid her head on his chest and sighed. He felt her breath tickle his skin.

“This is crazy.” She said. “I don’t even know your name.”

“It’s..” She stopped him with a hand to his mouth.

“Don’t. No names.” She implored, hoping he didn’t take offence.

He understood. This had been a perfect moment, and she didn’t want to ruin it. He didn’t either, but that didn’t mean he wanted to let her go. Not yet. Not without knowing what he could have had.

“Okay, I get it. No names. You want to be mysterious, but don’t tell me you’re ready to walk away.” He lifted her chin with his fingers.

“What do you want from me?” She asked, staring into his eyes.

“This night. Just tonight. We can go out or something.” He was grasping at straws, but he couldn’t let her go, not yet.

Truth be known, she wanted to get to know him. They’d shared something special, something more than just terrific, mind-blowing sex. Something had brought them together, and Buffy wanted to explore it. If only for one night, she thought whimsically.

“Just for tonight, I’m yours.” She said, smiling broadly. “In the morning, we walk away. Promise?”

“I promise.” Like hell, he thought. He brought her hand to his mouth, kissing each knuckle.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
3 years later..... 2002


“Dawn, come on. We’re going to be late.” Buffy quickly brushed her hair, pulling it back with a scrunchie.

“I’m here. And we’re not going to be late. You’re just too punctual.” Dawn said, grabbing two bottles of water out of the fridge.

“There’s nothing wrong with being on time.”

“Well, no there isn’t. You don’t have to get there 2 hours before it starts either.”

“Dawn, by the time, we get on the freeway, drive to Santa Monica, the book signing will be only a hour from starting.”

Dawn rolled her eyes, not really seeing the difference between an hour and two. They still would have too much time on their hands. Dawn loved her sister, but she was too sensible and practical, except when it came to choosing boyfriends, as evidenced by her latest, Riley.

Said boyfriend came through the patio door, carrying his board. Dawn shook her head in disgust at him. Ok, he had a great body, and was tall and handsome, but he was also a loser. He was boring and stupid. What her art-loving, museum-visiting, classical music-listening sister was doing with a cartoon-watching, comic book-reading, part-time actor was beyond her comprehension? All Buffy would say was he made her less crazy.

“Hey, Squirt.” Riley called to Dawn in passing. He leaned his board against the refrigerator, making sure it wouldn’t fall, before pecking Buffy quickly on the lips. “So where are you two off to today?”

“I told you Riley. We’re going to photograph that book signing in Santa Monica. Then, I’m having dinner with Mom and Dawn.”

Riley munched absently on a bagel, finally noticing the queer looks the girls were giving him. “What?” Dawn threw her hands in the air and stomped out of the house, calling Riley a moron as she walked by.

“I’ll be back later, Riley.”

“Wait, I thought we could.. you know, have a little bedroom marathon tonight.”

“Riley, you know this is my day with Dawn and Mom. Now, I’ve got to go. I’ll see you later, sweetie.” Buffy reached up and kissed him on the mouth, hating how tall he was. She was always reaching to get to him. He didn’t want to bend down, said it messed with his posture.

The horn blared, and Buffy smiled her apologies and ran for the door. Dawn sat inside the navy blue Jeep Liberty, a look of teenage annoyance written all over her face. Buffy hopped inside, putting the car into reverse.

Buffy ignored the inquiring looks from Dawn, knowing what Dawn wanted to discuss. Riley. Dawn wasn’t the only one to ask her what she saw in Riley. Willow and Tara asked her repeatedly what she hoped to get from Riley. Her mother wondered what they could possibly have in common. Her dad barely tolerated him, retreating to his office whenever they came over. Only Xander seemed to like Riley, and that was only because of their shared interests: video games and cartoons. They could sit for hours in front of the TV watching old reruns of Scooby Doo. They knew every episode. Buffy had asked Willow and Tara why they tolerated Xander, since he seemed to be a carbon copy of Riley. Tara had looked her in the eye, and simply told her, they were never planning on marrying Xander.

“You can’t keep ignoring me, Buffy. For the love of god, why are you with him? You were talking to him, and all he could do was gaze at the damn ocean.”

“Dawn, I know Riley. I understand how easily distracted he can get, especially after surfing. He’s in a zone.”

“That’s bullshit and you know it.”

“Look, Dawn, I’m with him. That’s not going to change.”

“It would if you dumped him. I don’t get it, Buffy. You’ve defied Dad. You started your own business and made it into a success. You’re doing what you want to do business wise, but you’re sharing your bed with an idiot.”

“Maybe, he’s the best I’m ever going to get.” That’s not true and you know it. You had it, and you let him go.

“You’ve got that dreamy look to your face again. Thinking about your mystery lover.”

“No, I haven’t thought of him in ages.” Of course, that was a bold-face lie. He was always on her mind. He held a special place in her heart, but she wouldn’t be sharing that news with Dawn.

“Oh, really. Then, why is it every time you see some guy with blonde hair you blush?”

“Dawn, that’s not true.” It was the blue eyes she remembered best. And his hands and how they felt on her body. And his mouth and how he tasted. And ... other things and how perfectly they fit her.

“You’re doing it again.”

“Will you check the directions? Which exit am I supposed to get off at?” Buffy said, waving her hand out the window, trying to blow air on her flushed skin.

“Exit 26. Take the first right after the exit. Then turn left at the 3rd red light. The shopping center will be on the right. The Magic Box is in the far corner, next to a tea shop.”

“The Bee did a story on the Magic Box a few months ago. It’s some funky curio shop with antiques and artifacts from all over the world. Hey, we can look for a gift for Mom.” Buffy said, glad to move the subject away from her past.

“Yeah, maybe, but it’ll have to be something really special. Mom’s been all over the world. The house is her own mini-museum.” Dawn knew Buffy didn’t like to talk about “that night”, but Dawn just wanted her to be happy, and Buffy lit up when she talked about “that night”.

“So why is the Bee so interested in a book by a former librarian? I mean, what’s it about? How to use the Dewey Decimal system in your daily life?” Dawn cracked.

Buffy giggled at her sister’s biting humor. “Ah, no. Tara’s read the book. She said it was very interesting. Told me I would like it.”

“Really, so what was it about?”

“The author was involved with some whack job, Tara’s word now, and she cheated on him with his best friend. Of course, he was devastated, but he met someone who changed his life, made him want to change his life. So, he did. Quit his job, traveled to the Far East, and wrote this book detailing his journey.”

“You didn’t read the book, did you?” Dawn asked, grinning.

“I’ve been busy. I just haven’t had the time.” Buffy said guiltily.

“How are you going to interview him, if you know absolutely nothing about the book?”

“I’ve got notes. Snyder gave me some questions to ask him. He’s so excited to have a NY Times bestseller in the area. Local boy does good, and all that.”

“I’m not trying to bust on you, Buffy. I just know self-help books aren’t your thing.”

“I know. I’m going to have to pretend to be interested. Give me Shakespeare or Fitzgerald. Give me a book on Renaissance artists, but spare me that self-help crap.”

Buffy got off at the exit, and followed the directions. They pulled up and parked.

“Wow. Look at all the people waiting outside. This book must be pretty good.” Dawn remarked.

Buffy glanced towards the store, seeing a blond man walking around to the rear of the tea shop. It’s not him, Buffy. Get a grip. She hadn’t seen him since that morning, when she’d kissed him goodbye.

“Grab these, Dawn.” Buffy gave her several camera cases. Buffy pulled her knapsack out, and slammed the door close.

“Think they’ll let us in.”

“Here, put this on.” Buffy handed her a press badge. As they approached the outside, Buffy reached for her camera, trading bags with Dawn.

“Let me get some exterior shots, Dawn.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
“Dad, you back here?”

The man in question came out from behind a curtain, greeting his son with a hug. “Spike, you finally made it.” Spike grinned at the disapproving tone of his father’s voice.

“I know I’m cutting it close, but I got behind changing the oil in the Desoto.”

“I don’t know why you’re trying to salvage that junker. You could buy a new car for all the money you’ve sunk into it.”

Spike grabbed the cup out of his father’s hand, taking a sip of the cooling Earl Grey. “It’s a classic.” He finally answered. “Did you pick up my clothes from the cleaners?”

“Yes, they’re hanging in the bathroom.” Rupert looked through the store and saw the crowd, of mostly women, gathered at the doors. The door opened to admit two young women with press badges. Anya directed them to the signing area. Rupert smiled, looking at his young wife. He’d been immediately smitten upon meeting Spike’s publicist.

“Do hurry, Spike. This is an important event for you.”

“I’m hurrying.” Spike stripped his t-shirt off, flinging it aside. He stepped inside the bathroom to splash water on his face. “The Bee was supposed to send someone to take photos. Do you see a photographer out there?”

“Yes, she just arrived. I’ll go talk to her while you finish dressing.”

Rupert closed the door behind him. If he hadn’t, Spike would have dropped his pants, regardless of the fact, there were other people in the store. His son’s lack of modesty had always been a source of amusement. Rupert smiled, remembering many shrieking mothers in England admonishing him about Spike’s upbringing. It was good to have him home, Rupert thought for the umpteenth time.

Anya chatted amiably with the taller of the photographers, showing her some of their recent acquisitions.

“Giles, picked this up on a recent trip to Africa. It’s supposed to bring the bearer much success. We keep it close to us, of course. Oh, here’s my husband.”

“Hello, I’m Rupert Giles. Welcome to my establishment.” He extended his hand to Buffy and Dawn, who both shook it. “I see you’ve met my wife, Anya.”

“Yes, we have. She’s been answering all of my sister’s many questions.” Buffy remarked, liking the couple immediately.

“I’m Dawn. This is my sister, Buffy. She’s usually not so rude.”

“I’m sorry. I’ve just never seen a Henry the Eighth miniature up close.”

Giles’ eyes showed his surprise. “You know the history of the miniatures? That’s amazing. Most people don’t know much about this period.”

“Oh, Buffy loves antiques. Give her a choice between eating and spending the day touring a museum, and she’d starve.”

“I wouldn’t go that far, Dawn.” Buffy interjected. “I’d bring an apple.”


Spike came out of the back room, searching the store for his father. He saw him talking with two women. He guessed they were the photographers. He noticed the blonde first, of course. Her laughter brought back another memory of his golden girl.

She sat across from him, totally unsympathetic to his plight. Their waitress was currently giving him all her attention, totally ignoring Buffy.

“You know I can fill you up.” She remarked, smiling broadly with the few teeth she had. She held the coffee pot, but from the way she was looking at him, he knew she wasn’t talking about the house special. Spike nodded, uncomfortably. The woman had to be in her late 50s, and she was putting on the full press.

“My friends call me Sparkle. Let me know if I can light up your life.” Buffy was laughing so hard, tears were rolling down her cheeks. Her face and neck were red with the effort to keep it all inside. When Sparkle finally walked away, Buffy lost it. Spike thought she was going to choke.

“You think that’s funny. Well, we can double date, seeing as the cook’s been looking at you like you were a bit of candy.” Buffy dabbed at her eyes, grinning.

“You‘ll protect me, won‘t you.”

“Maybe, it depends.” There was something to be said about a man with an accent, Buffy thought.

“On what?” She said, leaning over the table.

“If you’re going to save me from Sparkle?”


“So, have you read the book?” Giles asked, a hint of pride in his voice.

“No, I haven’t had the opportunity. I hope I haven’t offended you.”

“No, I can’t expect every person to have read William’s book.”

“Giles is a proud papa, if you couldn’t tell.” Anya said, patting her husband’s chest.

“You should be. From what our friend told us, the book is terrific.” Dawn said, watching the blonde man, who had to be William Giles, approach. He stooped to pick up a book, and missed seeing Buffy turn to ask Dawn a question. When he finally stood up, she had turned away, her back to him.

“I’d like to take some pictures with William at the table with the book cover as a backdrop. Then, we can take some photos of the three of you together. We’ll wrap up with photos of the customers meeting William. Does that sound okay with you, Anya?”

“That’s perfect. Dawn, would you mind helping us get things set up? William’s still getting dressed. Actually, I kinda want to keep him out of sight until the last minute. Build up the excitement, you know.”

Dawn followed Giles and Anya over to the table, pulling the enlarged book cover out from under the sheet. Dawn let out a whistle of appreciation. William Giles, you are a blessed man. Blue eyes. That’s funny. Buffy’s lover had blue eyes. And he was British. And he had blonde hair. Oh, my god. It couldn’t be. Could it?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Buffy wiped her lenses, making sure there were no dust flakes to obscure or mar the photos. She checked her flashes. Yep, they worked. Well, she was ready. Now where was the infamous William Giles?

Spike rounded the corner, nearly bowling over the blonde photographer on the floor. Blondes. He was surrounded by blondes. For the last 3 years, every blonde, petite woman had garnered a second look. He’d had to force himself to stop staring. She wasn’t out there. He wasn’t going to look up one day and see her. He should have never let her get out of that bed and leave, but he given her his word. At the time, it’d seemed important to follow her lead. He’d had no idea she would disappear without a trace.

Giles saw William standing off to the side and thought introductions were needed.

“William, I want you to meet Buffy and Dawn Summers. They’re here to photograph you.”

Buffy stood up and felt the ground fall out beneath her.

Blue eyes stared into green ones.

“Oh, my god!” They both said, shocked and amazed. “It’s you.”

Ch. 2

"What's your favorite thing to do?"

"Besides this, you mean?" Spike laid his chin on his arms, and thought about that question. What did he like to do? It had been a long time since he'd thought about what he wanted. He wasn't sure if he knew anymore.

"Was that too personal a question?" Buffy asked, kissing the skin between his shoulder blades. He tasted like cigarettes and bourbon and sex. She couldn't forget sex. It was a second skin, something he couldn't shed or wash away.

"No. Not too personal. I just haven't thought about what makes me happy in so long, I'm finding it hard to imagine what would."

"That's depressing." Buffy ran her hands over his arms. She'd never felt closer to someone, and it had nothing to do with the fact, she was stretched out, naked on his back.

"I know it is, but my last relationship was a 4 year study in depression."

"Yours or hers?" She mumbled.

"Ours. It was shared." Spike closed his eyes, concentrating on the feel of her nipples pressing into his skin.

"She hurt you." She stated, not really expecting an answer.

"I let her. But that's not what you wanted to know." Spike didn't want to think about Dru, not here, not with her. She was the antithesis to Dru. She was his golden girl. Dru had been his dark princess. He liked the sun.

Buffy heard the pain he tried to quickly dismiss. She felt an intense desire to smack his ex. She rose, inadvertently grinding her pelvis into his ass.

"Riding my motorcycle," Spike continued, answering her question, "helmet off, wind whipping on my face as I hit 100 miles per hour. And if you don't want me to flip you over and show you some more things a man can do to a woman, I suggest you settle down back there."

"Sorry." She giggled, laying back down.

"No, you're not."

"You're right." She said, nipping his shoulder, and wiggling some more.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
He was walking sin, pure and simple. No one should look that sexy in a button-down shirt. How exactly was she supposed to react? What exactly was proper decorum in this situation? They'd been intimate. They'd done things to each other that still made her blush today.

Should he be saying something? Spike saw the questioning look on his Dad's face. He thinks I've lost my mind, and I want to tell him, it's her fault. If she wasn't so goddamn beautiful, so California with her tan and golden hair, I'd be able to think straight.

"Your hair's longer." He simply stated, and she raised her hand self-consciously to touch it. That was brilliant, Spike. That's the first thing that came to your mind? And you call yourself a writer?

"Still battling the curls I see." She said, recalling with glee, running her fingers through said curls.

"I.. I How the hell are we supposed to do this?" He asked, taking a step closer to her.

"I wish I knew. I know we can't do it here, not with an audience." She said, feeling lightheaded.

"Ah, maybe we should take this somewhere else." He agreed, looking up and seeing Dawn, Giles, and Anya staring intently at them.

"Yeah, that's probably a good idea." Buffy looked down at the cameras in her hands, confused. You take pictures for a living. Her brain reminded her. Damn, if she didn't feel like she was in a post-orgasmic haze.

"I'm supposed to photograph you. Do a short interview." She informed him. Spike didn't care why she was here. Hell, he couldn't remember what he was supposed to be doing. Her presence had blinded him to everything else, but making sure she didn't disappear again.

"Then, we definitely need to go somewhere else. What I have to say might make some of your readers blush." Spike said, leering at her, making her blush.

"We're going to do the interview in the Tea Shoppe. We'll be back." Spike said, grabbing Buffy's arm. They both started at the contact.

Spike led them over to an alcove, out of view of the Magic Box, and the customers milling around outside.

Buffy put her cameras down on the table, glancing around, trying to look anywhere but at him. The Tea Shoppe was an extension of the Magic Box. It reminded her of her grandparents' English-style sitting room. Buffy felt Spike's eyes on her. Her very practical nature called for her to say hello, ask him how he'd been, but the woman, who remembered what it felt like to be with this man, screamed for her to wrap her arms around his neck, and never let go.

Spike couldn't say what he felt at the moment. His golden girl was here, in the flesh. He had dreamt of her, of that night for over 3 years. While writing the book, she'd been there, his muse, his inspiration. She didn't even know what she'd done for him that night. She'd freed him, and he'd never even thanked her.

He laughed softly, drawing her attention. "What?" She asked, liking the way the light twinkled in his eyes.

"Just realized, I still don't know your name."

"Elizabeth, but my friends call me Buffy."

"Are we friends?" He asked, moving closer to her.

"I think so. We're something to each other."

Buffy watched mesmerized as Spike's hand grazed her arm, tickling the skin. Buffy closed her eyes, and sighed as she felt his fingers on her cheek, past her ear, into her hair. She felt his fingers, loosen her ponytail, till her hair fell in waves on her back.

"Beautiful." Spike whispered.

Buffy's lips parted, her body tensed. Spike traced her bottom lip. Amazing, he thought, still as ripe as he remembered. Buffy moaned as his lips descended on hers. Her body arched into his, seeking its warmth. It felt as if her body was unraveling, like it had been wrapped in a tight coil for the last 3 years. The realization that she somehow belonged to him, that her body recognized his as being its shelter, shocked and terrified her. Who was this man to make her want to throw caution to the wind? Again.

He'd missed her. Hadn't realized how much till she was looking at him, with those clear hazel eyes. He'd missed hearing her laugh. He missed watching the way her breath would catch when he touched something sensitive on her body. It wasn't just about sex. They'd touched on something special, and he'd be damned if he'd let her walk out of his life again.

Her hands skimmed his back, moving slowly to clutch his shoulders for support. His teeth nipped her lips, and she gasped. His tongue slid inside, and she pulled him closer. Spike deliberately, and with a slowness that had Buffy whimpering with need, stroked his tongue against hers in a rhythm designed to make her remember what it felt like to be in his bed. It soon became necessary to breath, and they pulled apart with a gasp, each taking deep breaths.

Buffy laid her head against his chest, enjoying the feel of being back in his arms. But having his mouth away from hers, brought reality back into view. Riley. She'd forgotten all about him. He didn't deserve this. Her body protested as she pulled out of his arms, and stepped away.

He felt the change in her immediately.

"I missed you." He reached out for her, but she stepped back.

"Don't do this to me." She begged.

"Don't do what? Don't tell you there hasn't been a day since you left that I haven't looked for you." He said, turning his back, afraid she'd see how much he desired her. She sat down, her knees unable to hold her. He sat across from her at the table. They regarded each other, like hunter to the prey.

"Stop looking at me like that." She warned.

"Like what? Like I want to throw you on this table and bury myself inside you for a very long time."

Buffy's eyes widened. "Yeah, like that." She squeaked.

Spike watched her, studying every inch of her. Not that he needed to. He could trace her body from memory.

"You know all bets are off. I'm not letting you disappear again." He said, rubbing his chin with his thumb.

Buffy's eyebrow rose at that. She couldn't lie to him, give him hope where there wasn't any.

"I have a boyfriend." Buffy admitted. Damnit, why did it hurt to say it? She and Riley had been together for 2 years. And you’ve never said you loved him. Traitor. She screamed to her heart. She glanced up to see his reaction, and was taken aback by the nonchalant air he exuded.

"Sorry to hear that." He stood up, placing his hands on the table, pinning her to her seat. "Guess he'll have to get used to me coming around. It's going to make dating a bitch." He grinned tightly at her, loving the way her eyes turned a deep emerald green. Buffy tried to think of a witty comeback, but words escaped her.

"Excuse me?" Buffy shouted, loud enough for Dawn and Giles to hear. They peeked around the corner to see what was going on. Buffy smiled sweetly and moved her seat out of their line of view.

"I tell you I have a boyfriend, and you tell me you want to date me. You can't do that."

"I'm just letting you know how I feel. You said you had a boyfriend. Happy for you. Glad to see you moved on, but I'm here now, and I want you." Spike wanted to laugh at the wide-eyed look on her face, but didn't think that would earn him any brownie points.

Spike decided he'd let her stew for a moment, and calmly got up and poured two glasses of water. He handed her one before sitting back down. "We should get started." He suggested, pointing to her camera. "Anya's going to be opening the doors soon."

"You are insane. We can't just pick up after 3 years. Too much has happened since then."

"I don't care." He said, studying his nails.

She was becoming frustrated, and it had nothing to do with unfulfilled desire. It was a one-night stand. All right, just because there were times she swore she felt him, that didn't mean a thing. Okay, so she thought about him sometimes when she was with Riley, but that didn't mean that he could come into her well-organized life and blow it up.

"Now, what would you like to know about me?" He said, crossing his arms over his chest. She looked ready to explode. He hadn't felt this good in years.

"You're not listening to me. I am in a relationship. I can't go out with you. I don't cheat."

"I don't cheat either."

I'd kill you if you did cheat on me. Buffy looked around, hoping she hadn't just said that out loud.

"Can you honestly sit there and tell me you haven't wondered what it would have been like if you'd stayed?" He sat up straight and dared her to lie to his face.

She could lie and end this all right now. She could do the right thing by Riley, by William, by herself, but something wouldn't allow her to do that.

"I used to think about nothing else that first year. That night with you was the most amazing night of my life." She said sadly. "Riley makes me happy. He keeps me centered." He doesn't make me want to ride motorcycles without a helmet.

Riley? What kind of poofy name was that? "I understand." He said suddenly, smiling sweetly at her. It immediately put her on guard. What was he up to?

"You have a boyfriend. You care about him. Ok. I missed my chance." He said, throwing his hands up in the air. "But that doesn't mean, we can't be friends, does it?"

"No, it doesn't. I'd like that."

I'm sure you would, Ms. Summers. "So, can a friend take you out for dinner? For old times sakes'? It's the least I can do. The last place I took you to, left a lot to be deserved."

Say yes. Say yes. She could hear Tara and Willow cheerleading from the stands. She could have a mature, adult friendship with him. There were people who'd shared a bed with someone, and they were friends after it ended. Hell, this was California, half the people here had slept with one another, especially in LA and Hollywood.

"What? You didn't enjoy Sparkle's hospitality?" He laughed.

"Sparkle was an interesting woman. I haven't been able to forget her either." He said, looking down at the table. He missed seeing Buffy's reaction.

"I guess we should get to work." Buffy suggested.

"Probably. I don't think Anya would appreciate us ruining her carefully scheduled plans." Spike stood up, pushing his chair back. "Shall we?" He said, extending his hand. Buffy took it, hating how stilted the conversation sounded.

This was the right thing to do. She reminded herself. You can do this, Buffy. You can be friends with him.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Giles, Anya, and Dawn had taken turns walking by the Tea Shoppe, but the area where Buffy and Spike were secreted prevented them from overhearing the conversation. They stopped in their tracks as Spike and Buffy emerged from the room.

"He calls you Spike because of the curls?" Buffy was saying as they approached the trio. "I guess that's better than Curly."

"Did you two have a nice talk?" Giles asked, watching his son carefully. Giles could tell Spike was desperately trying to reign in his emotions, his cheek ticked from the effort.

"Yes, we did, Dad. Thanks for asking." Giles patted Spike on the back, silently giving him his support.

"Well, that's just great." Anya said. "We need to get started. We're supposed to open in 5 minutes.

The next two hours flew by in a blur. After photographing Spike with Giles and Anya, Buffy took some shots of him in front of his book cover. Once the doors were opened and the crowd poured in, Buffy wandered around, taking candid shots. She took the opportunity to study him. He really was a beautiful man, but more than his physical appearance, she could see his strength, his intelligence. He was sure of himself, but he didn't use that to make you feel less. God, she had to stop thinking about him. You would have thought he would have lost some of his mystique, now that they had met again. But he hadn't.

Spike signed the inside cover, and handed the book back to the young woman. Everyone said his book was inspiring, and he hoped it was. But the real inspiration stood off to the side, pretending this thing between them could be dismissed easily. She was even more beautiful than he remembered. He had hoped to find her just as free-spirited as before, but this woman thought too much. Oh, he understood being committed to someone. He'd stayed with Druscilla for 3 years, 6 months longer than he should have. He understood staying with someone because it was the right thing to do. Doing the right thing for the wrong reasons only brought about pain. It had taken seeing Dru in bed with Liam for Spike to realize he'd allowed his love to jerk him around, blind him to Dru's true nature. He'd been so desperate to hold onto Dru, he'd lost himself.

She was scared, and he couldn't really blame her. He was scared too. He didn't know what a healthy relationship was. He thought he'd glimpsed how good one could be that night. But it was one night. He knew Buffy would need more convincing than him just saying it. If that's what he had to do, so be it. She was worth it. Spike would be damned if he'd let love bitch slap him with this woman.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Dawn offered to drive home, mumbling about wanting to get there in one piece. Buffy didn't argue with her, there was no point. She'd just spent 2 hours with a man she'd thought she'd never see again. That's not true. She'd thought they'd meet again, when she was old and married with kids. Not now, when he had the ability to turn her life upside down. He'd done that once already. She hadn't even thanked him.

"What are you going to do?" Dawn asked, concerned by the blank look in Buffy's eyes.

"I don't know. First, I'm going to kill Tara and Willow. After that, who knows?" Buffy looked out the window, thinking how different her life seemed from 3 hours ago. There was that number again. She'd have to ask Tara what it meant in the numerology book.

Dawn laughingly asked her, "Why are you plotting murder against them?"

"They knew. They sent me here, knowing full well Spike was the one." That realization hit Buffy as soon as she saw the book jacket. Tara and Willow saw him that night. They knew what he looked like. They knew Buffy was going to meet him, and they'd let her, not bothering to warn her. Thank god, she wasn't seeing Riley tonight. That would be too much to handle right now.

"I guess that explains the missed calls on your phone." Dawn handed the phone to Buffy, who saw 6 phone calls from the Macay-Rosenberg household.

"They're dead. You don't think they'll say anything to Xander, do you?" Buffy panicked, knowing those two she-devils would love to set Riley up for the big smack-down.

"No, they won't. Buffy, they love you. They wouldn't share something so personal with Xander."

"Oh, god. What am I going to do, Dawnie? He wants me, and not just in his bed. He wants the whole thing." Buffy closed her eyes, feeling his fingers on her back as he escorted them to her car.

"What do you want? Do you want something with him?" Please, oh please, want something with him. Dawn couldn't wait to get home. Mom might have to break out the tequila for this occasion.

"Dawn, I'm dating Riley. I've been with Riley for almost 2 years. You don't just throw a relationship away because of a one-night stand."

"It wasn't just a one-night stand, and you know it. A one-night stand doesn't make you tell Dad to take his job and shove it. Doesn't make you change your major and jump out on faith and start your own business. A one-night stand doesn't dedicate a book to you." Dawn argued.

Oh, yeah, the book. When she'd finally gotten the courage to pick it up, she'd been pleasantly surprised to see the dedication. "To my golden girl, thank you for introducing me to the sun." It was sweet, and she didn't doubt she was the girl, not when she looked up and saw Spike staring intently at her.

"Riley is a sweet enough lug, but he isn't the man for you. I know it. Mom knows it. Tara and Willow know it. And most of all, you know it, Buffy. Why stay with him, when the real thing is standing right in front of you?"

"Riley is the perfect man for me. He's supportive in his own way. He doesn't mind me working late. He accepts me for who I am. He doesn't.."

"Do a damn thing." Dawn slowed for a light. "What do you have in common with Riley? Nothing. He doesn't take you to the theatre. He doesn't go to art shows with you. The only thing you do together is eat, sleep, and fuck."

"Dawn!"

"Sorry, but it rhymed. All I'm saying is don't close the door on Spike. You owe it to yourself to give him a chance. You met him before Riley. So, he was actually here first."

"Your logic is mind-boggling."

"Thank you."

Buffy closed her eyes. "Just let me figure this out on my own, Dawn. Don't push."

"Sure, Buffy. Whatever you say." Dawn turned the radio up, plotting how to get Buffy and Spike together. Mom. Mom would know what to do.


Anya stood off to the side, speaking with one of the remaining customers in the store. She knew the woman was lingering with the hopes of getting a chance to speak to Spike alone. Anya attempted to distract the woman by showing her various pieces in the store, while Spike slipped out the back. Giles closed the door behind him. Spike sat on the sofa in his jeans. He held his t-shirt in his hands, and to Giles' eyes, he looked a little shell-shocked.

Giles sat next to him, slapping Spike on the thigh. "Want to talk about it?"

"I never really thought we'd see each other again. I hoped we would, but in the back of my mind, she was like this dream girl, she wasn't real."

"What are you going to do, Will?" Spike rolled his eyes comically at the use of his real name.

"Good question. She told me she was dating someone."

"Oh. Well, that's unfortunate." And it was, in his opinion. After the damage Drusilla inflicted on Spike, Giles had hopes for a relationship with Buffy. She was a delightful young woman.

"It really is. You know I don't condone cheating, but I have absolutely no intentions of letting her go. I was foolish enough to do it 3 years ago. I'm not making the same mistake again."

ch. 3

"Call me later?" Giles asked as Spike climbed on his bike to leave.

"I'll call before our set. What are your plans for tonight?"

"Oh, Anya and I are going to the movies. She wants to see Gosford Park, so we're off to the Cineplex."

"Well, that does sound exciting." Spike said dryly.

"We can't all be rock stars, son." Giles smirked back. "Just promise me you won't overindulge tonight. I know you've gotten quite a shock, but drinking won't help."

"Yes, Dad. I promise no excessive drinking. Can I have a beer or two, though? It fits the image of the hard rocker. Don't want to disappoint my fans." Spike's blue eyes twinkled with mischief, and Giles was struck by how little his son had changed since he was a child.

"You're incorrigible, you know that, don't you?"

"Yes, I know, but you love me."

"Yes, I do. Very much." Giles cuffed Spike gently by the head as he said this. "Go on. I've got to get back to work."

Spike pulled his helmet on, and revved the engine. He rolled the bike back, and burned rubber as he exited the strip mall.

Elizabeth Summers. Buffy Summers. He liked Buffy a lot better. He liked a lot of things about Buffy Summers.

What did he feel for her? He knew he felt something more than friendship for Buffy, and it had nothing to do with the sex. That had been amazing, inspiring. It wasn't the acrobatic love fest of his dreams. It wasn't sweet either. It fell somewhere in between. It was one of those experiences every person should have at least once in their lives. The bike swerved and he had to remind himself not to think that intensely about the sex.

That's what worried him the most. What if that was all it was to her? A once in a lifetime experience? No, he refused to believe she was that shallow. She didn't just cum. She'd cried. You didn't cry if it didn't touch some part of you that was by and large untouchable.

He knew that was how he'd felt. After Buffy had left, he'd lain in bed, smoking a cigarette, replaying every moment spent with her. Sex with Dru had been a chore, something they did so they could say they were still together. She'd left the relationship long before he'd realized it.

Dru. His dark princess was very pissed with him. What was new? Wesley had laughed when he showed him the letter he'd received from her lawyers. Wes wanted them to sue. Spike could see the dollar signs dancing in his head. Spike had to admit he wanted the chance to expose all of Liam and Dru's secrets. Spike would open a can of worms so big, Dru would only see Sacramento from the air. He'd tell every secret they had. He bring up stuff, he was sure Liam had forgotten. Then, he'd remind Dru that she'd been living with him when she decided to go for the bigger fish.

He didn't hate Dru. He didn't hate Liam. He was actually happier without either of them in his life. They truly deserved each other. Dru got to be with her daddy, and Liam got to have the one woman he couldn't corrupt anymore than she already was.

Angel. Liam was far from an angel. He was more like the devil in disguise. Spike shook his head at the irony that was Liam Cavanaugh's nickname.

Spike slowed to a stop and took a quick glance at his watch. It was a little after 5. Cordy would probably be still at home. He'd stop by and see her. Spike couldn't wait to hear her blunt assessment of this situation. She'd only been pushing him to look for Buffy since day one.

~~~~~~~~~~~~
"Buffy, we're home." She said assuming Buffy was asleep.

"I'm awake, Dawn." Buffy gave her a tight-lipped smile before exiting the car.

"Feeling any better about Spike?"

"Um, not really." Buffy grabbed Dawn's arm as they walked into the garage. "Don't say anything to Mom about him. I'll tell her later. I'm not up for 20 questions before dinner."

"Sure, Buff. I won't say a word." Not until you leave. "But you'd better call Willow and Tara before they call here looking for you."

"I'd almost forgotten about those two. I still want to kill them, but not so much anymore." Buffy smirked.

Joyce hung up the phone as Buffy and Dawn came through the door. "Girls. Goodness, Willow and Tara have called here several times for you. Is something going on that I should know about?"

Joyce hugged both girls, reaching around Dawn for the basil and oregano off the spice rack.

"They probably want to know how the book signing went. " Buffy said, swiping a sliced piece of bell pepper off the butcher's block. Joyce glared at her, but her amused grin ruined its effect.

"Was William Giles as handsome in person as he is on the book cover?" Joyce said, wiggling her brows.

Dawn snickered behind Buffy's back. Buffy coughed, trying not to choke. "You've read the book?" She gasped, wondering why she seemed to be the only person who hadn't read it.

"Buffy, I told you I picked it up in the airport last week. It was very interesting. William sounds like a terrific young man. He made a mistake, that's typical for someone his age."

"A mistake?" Buffy croaked. They were a mistake? Her stomach dropped at the thought.

"Yes. His ex-girlfriend was a self-absorbed, spoiled brat. She never really cared for him. He didn't see that until it was too late."

Much like you and Riley, Joyce wanted to add, but kept that to herself.

Dawn hopped up onto the counter, earning a disapproving look from her mother. "What?" She asked innocently. Joyce shook her head at her youngest, and continued on with her review of Spike's book.

"Now, " Joyce said conspiratorially, "the next girl he became involved with, she's the one he should have stayed with. They had a pretty intense time together. I think it could have been more if she hadn't run out on him."

"She didn't run out on him. They had an agreement. She couldn't stay." Buffy said vehemently. Joyce looked up surprised.

"I didn't know you'd read the book, Buffy." Dawn couldn't believe Buffy's reaction. She had to file that away for future reference.

"I didn't, but you're just getting his point of view. You don't know what she was thinking or what she wanted." Buffy said, nibbling on her nail.

"You're right, Buffy. We'll never know what she wanted. As far as I know, he hasn't seen her since that night. That's kinda sad, really."

"I think it's romantic." Dawn quipped. "Two star-crossed lovers, lost to each other, only to meet years later." Buffy glared at Dawn, wishing she were a knife-thrower in the circus. Dawn would be toast.

"Uh, Mom, do you want me to start the grill?" Buffy asked, wanting to do something other than talk about a certain blonde writer.

"That'd be great, Buffy. Dawn, get down off that counter and wash your hands. You can get the salmon prepped while the grill is heating." Buffy pinched Dawn as she passed.

"Mom, Buffy pinched me!"

"Did not!" Buffy said, scooping the cordless out of the cradle, and escaping to the patio.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Outside, Buffy turned on the grill on, listening for the swoosh that signaled it was lit. She curled up in the window seat, and waited for her traitorous best friend to answer her phone.

"Hey, Buff. Don't kill me." Tara said after looking at the caller ID.

"I should kill you. You'd better be glad it was an hour drive back from San Marino. You should have told me."

"Would you have gone if I had?" Tara didn't sound the least bit contrite, which only infuriated Buffy more.

"That wasn't your decision to make. I'm supposed to be your best friend. Best friend's don't set each other up for shocks like that."

"I'm sorry you were shocked, but I stand by what I did." Tara said, sipping a glass of Merlot. "You needed to see him without your defenses in place." Tara said non-plussed by the screech she heard from Buffy.

"So, how did he look? As good as you remembered?"

"Argh!!! I can't believe you."

"But you love me, and I love you. Now, spill. I know you kissed him, but what else happened?"

"You know I kissed him? Well, I didn't." Buffy lifted her chin in the air, determined to get the upper hand even if it was with a lie.

"Hah! Liar, liar. Your nose is going to grow for telling that big one." Buffy strangled the phone, wishing it was Tara's neck.

Buffy sighed hard, conceding defeat. "It was nice. Very nice." She gushed.

Tara squealed. "You didn't, you know, again, did you?"

Buffy stared at the phone, wondering how Tara managed to make it through the day without jumping someone.

"I know you're a nymphomaniac, but not everyone eats, drinks, thinks sex."

"You're just jealous you're not getting as much as me." Tara told her, not the least bit offended by Buffy's comment.

"Well, if I had two lovers, I would be getting as much."

Tara laughed. "Here's your chance. Sounds to me like William Giles is more than willing to pick up where you left off."

"Spike."

"What?"

"He goes by Spike." She said finally, waiting for the joke she knew was coming.

"How appropo." Tara said sarcastically. "Guess he spiked you." She mumbled.

"I heard that." Buffy said, staring into the still water of the pool. "And we're not picking up anything together. I have a boyfriend, if you've forgotten."

"Trying to." Tara snapped back.

"Tara." Buffy groaned, feeling a headache coming on. "I'm with Riley, and that's that." Was that that? Could she live with Riley for the rest of her life? Buffy frowned at the thought.

"So, you're never going to see him again?" Tara asked incredulous. At Buffy's hesitation, Tara crossed her fingers and said a quick prayer.

Buffy debated telling Tara, knowing she would gloat, but she needed the Troika's help.

"We're having dinner tomorrow night." She finally admitted.

"Hot damn! I knew it!" Tara screamed, dancing a jig in the kitchen.

"Whoa, Dale Evans! It's not a date. We're going as friends, so there won't be any after-dinner sex." Buffy said firmly, trying desperately to convince Tara and herself.

"Okay, no after-dinner sex. What about before dinner sex?"

"We're game." Willow announced as she and Xander walked in the door.

"Hey, baby." Tara said, grabbing Willow for a quick kiss. Buffy listened as the kiss deepened, then heard Tara whisper her name.

"Buff, here's Willow. I'm gonna fix us some drinks. Love you. Bye." Tara handed Willow the phone as she drug Xander out to the porch.

"Hey, guess you're ready to kill us, huh?" Willow pulled her jacket off as she headed to her bedroom.

"Nah." Buffy said, lifting the hood on the grill. "I'm all out of righteous indignation."

"Tell me you talked to him, at least."

"Oh, we talked." Buffy said, touching her lips.

"Oh, boy. You didn't fuck him, did you?" Willow's fingers stilled on the buttons of her blouse.

"No, we didn't! When and where would this sex have taken place?" Buffy asked annoyed.

"That's the same thing I asked 3 years ago."

Buffy looked heavenward, her loose hair reminding her whose fingers pulled it apart.

"We're having dinner. I'm definitely going to need the Troika tomorrow." Buffy said as Dawn and Joyce brought the fish and vegetables outside.

"The Troika. Whew! I'll call Lorne, but you know how he is. He might have a date or something. He'll just have to cancel it. You need us." Willow said, balancing on one foot as she pulled a pair of shorts on.

"Thanks, Will. I'll call you later. Is Xander staying tonight?"

"Maybe, Tara looks like she might be ready for an all-nighter. If we don't answer, you know we're busy. Hey, this doesn't have to be the end of the world, Buffy." Willow could tell this unexpected appearance of William Giles in her life was throwing Buffy for a loop. Good, she thought, it was time Buffy had a little excitement in her life. About 3 years to be exact.

"No, it doesn't and it won't. We'll get together, have dinner, and go back to our lives." Buffy said, breaking into Willow's thoughts

"If you say so." Willow said agreeably.

"I do."

"Good."

"It is."

"Talk to you later, then."

"Love you, Will." .

"Love you. Bye."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"Tired?" They were lying on their sides, facing each other.

"A little." Buffy yawned, her hazel eyes disappearing periodically behind her lids.

"I don't want to go to sleep yet. Might miss something important." Spike reached out and flicked her nose, waking her.

She smiled. "Me neither. Sleep means less time..." She looked away bashfully. "With you."

Spike nodded. He didn't want this evening to end, either. "Okay, then, tell me something about yourself." Spike lifted his head and rested it on his hand.

Buffy mimicked his position. "I hate my major." Tara and Willow would be so proud of her. She'd actually admitted she wasn't happy with her choice of career.

"So why don't you change it?"

She laughed, throwing her head back. "Yeah, that's an option." She said bitterly. "My father would only die of heart failure. He's been grooming me since birth to work with him."

"Don't you think your father would rather see you happy?"

"He would. His idea of what makes me happy is very different from mine." Corporate life. Big Business. Hank Summers was nothing if not a Reaganite. "He'd be hurt, and I don't want to do that to him." She pushed her hair over her shoulder, the action causing the sheet to slip, revealing a golden brown treat. Spike couldn't resist touching it.

"Don't you deserve to be happy? Do you think, in the long run, you're doing yourself any favors?" Spike arched his brow, watching Buffy grip the sheets. He watched her, his blue eyes shadowed by desire. Buffy shook her head, as Spike circled her nipple with his fingertip.

"Um.. stop that." She hissed. Spike just grinned, and leaned down to suckle.

Now, I see why babies are so reluctant to give up the breast. Spike thought, swirling his tongue around the brown nub.

"Do they give you Brits Viagra from birth?" Spike felt her fingers in his hair, massaging his scalp.

"Huh? What?" He said dazed, not only by the exquisite feel of her fingers, but the taste of her skin.

"Viagra. Super-penis pill. I'm not complaining. I'm very appreciative. Believe me, I am." She whimpered when his lips left her breast.

"Well, when it's something I like a whole lot. I tend to do it again, and again, and again." She felt his hand sliding along her thigh.

"Oh." Buffy said, swallowing loudly. Her eyes crossed as she felt his fingers twisting the short curls between her legs. "Umm, I thought you wanted to talk?"

"I can multi-task." He said, and laughed when he felt her stomach rumble. Buffy lifted her leg, draping it over his.

"You're very sure of yourself." She said, biting her lip as she felt his fingers slide easily inside her.

His fingers had stilled inside her, not moving, just filling her.

"Must be the company. Because I'm a big geek in bed." He admitted seriously, kissing her.

"Same here. I've.." She gasped as her nerve endings began to hum with excitement. "This is so not me." She groaned, her head dropping forward.

"Is that why you won't change your major? Have to follow the rules, have to do what everyone expects?"

Buffy wanted to rip his hair out. He was driving her crazy. She was out of control. What other explanation was there for her lying in bed with some stranger, his hand inside her, her muscles stroking him, bringing her to an amazing climax? She found his eyes on her, staring at her intently.

"You were saying." Talking to her, like this, with his fingers nestled inside her warmth, struck Spike as being more intimate than the actual sex itself.

"Uh, about what?" She blew her breath out in little puffs, trying to slow down the tingling she felt between her legs.

"School, major." He told her helpfully, knowing he was close to his own release. What she was doing to his fingers, should be outlawed. This had to be the most decadent experience of her life, and she was doing a terrific job of turning him into her little slave.

She was sweating from the effort to control her body. That's right, struggle because I have no control over mine either. She was right. He couldn't believe he was hard again either. He'd never screwed Dru more than 3 times in a night, and Dru was an inventive lover. But she paled in comparison to this woman. She fit him perfectly. The feel of his cock inside her was wonderful, not too snug, not to loose. It was a little bit of heaven.

"Oh, I'm .. um.. in advertising." She finally said, gasping, clenching his fingers tightly as every nerve shook her body like a rag doll. Spike felt her juices flowing over his fingers, and slipped his fingers slowly out of her. Buffy collapsed on the bed, breathing heavily, looking at him like he was an axe murderer.

"What are you doing to me?" She felt wanton, and that wasn't a word usually associated with Elizabeth Anne Summers. She just wasn't this sexual.

"I should ask you." Spike said, gripping his cock and stroking it with her juices. "I want you so badly, it hurts." Spike closed his eyes, the sight of her, lying naked, her breasts jiggling with each breath, was too tempting.

"Then, why don't you take me?" Spike's eyes flew open, and he felt a prickle of fear. She wouldn't. Would she? Oh, god, she would.

Buffy laughed seductively at the look of terror in his eyes. She could see how hard he was, could see the pain on his face, and she only wanted to help. She rolled over, crawling towards him like some temptress out of a bad jungle flick. Spike whimpered as she lifted her leg over his prone body, took his cock and guided it into her warmth.

"Ah, luv, no condom.. You shouldn't.. we shouldn't, ahh." Spike's chest arched as he felt her burning him from the inside out.

"Just pull out, um, when you're, um, ready to come." Buffy said, grinding her hips hard on his.

Spike would have agreed to sell his kidney to keep her on top of him, riding his cock like she wanted to tear it off. He could feel it starting, that sweet sensation pricking his skin like a thousand little needles.

Buffy flung her head back, her thick mane of hair flying like a golden curtain over her head.

"Omigod. Omigod." She screamed, slumping against Spike's chest, her chest heaving from the effort to breathe.

"I'm not going to be able.. to. . god, get off me." Buffy weakly lifted her exhausted body off, watching fascinated as streams of liquid jetted out of his cock. She felt decidedly wicked, and took his softening penis in her mouth. Spike jumped at the contact, willing death to take him, because he couldn't take much more. Buffy licked and sucked, cleaning him of all remnants of their lovemaking.

"You'll be the death of me." Spike coughed, the last little spurt choking him.

"The night's still young." She said, laying her head on his thigh.
~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Spike, earth to Spike!" Cordy yelled, grinning at the faraway look on Spike's face.

"Spike to Earth!" Spike wrenched his mind reluctantly from the past.

"Good lord, what were you just thinking about?" Cordy said. Spike rolled his eyes, striding inside the house.

"Ah, you don't want to know. Guess who I saw today?" Spike said, grabbing a bottled water out the fridge.

"Who? Dru?" She said, teasingly. Spike's eyes widened at that comment, and Cordelia pounced. "That bitch did not have the nerve to show up at the book signing!"

"No, the other one."

Cordy's brown eyes stared at Spike, her head nodding slowly. "That one."

"Yep."

"She just showed up at the store?" She asked, disbelieving.

"The Bee sent her to photograph me. She had no idea I was the author." Spike rummaged around in the cabinets till he found the aspirin.

Cordy walked over to him, wrapping Spike in a hug. "Well, tell me about her. Was she the same as you remembered?"

"Even more beautiful than I remembered. And has a boyfriend to boot." He said, burying his head in her neck.

Cordy leaned back, sighing as she did. "Bad timing. So what's the problem?" Spike smirked, loving how easily Cordelia dismissed Buffy's boyfriend. Now, if only Buffy could do that.

"The boyfriend, and the fact she's not as spontaneous as she used to be." Spike opened the fridge, pulling out a container of olives. He popped one in his mouth, while Cordelia stared off into space.

"Now, that's not quite true. If I remember correctly, screwing you was the first impulsive thing she'd ever done. At least, that's what she told you. Did you really think she'd be that same girl? You've changed since that night." She swiped the olive he'd been about to put in his mouth, and threw it in hers.

"Explain this to me. I was the other guy. I've been cheated on. I know how badly it feels, and yet, I can't muster up one ounce of concern for her boyfriend."

"It was a little more complicated with Dru and Angel. They were your friends. You don't even know this guy."

"His name is Riley. Riley? What kind of name is that?"

"Speaking of names, what's hers?"

"Buffy."

"And you're making fun of her boyfriend's name?" Cordelia took the container from him, closed it and placed it back in the fridge.

"It's really Elizabeth, but I like Buffy."

"No, really. That's a shocker."

"Seeing her again. That was the shocker." Spike admitted.

"Do I need to cancel your set tonight? Are you going to be able to function well enough to play?" Cordy placed her hand to Spike's forehead.

"Yes, smart ass. I'm fine. It was just nice seeing her." Nice touching her. Nice feeling those perfect little breasts against my chest again.

"Nice. I don't think I've ever heard you use the word 'nice' when describing Buffy?" Cordelia said, arching a thin brow at him. "Nice would only be used if you were trying not to gush. You don't gush." Cordelia jerked Spike, till they stood nose to nose. At 5'8" naturally and with an extra 2" from the heels she wore, she and Spike were nearly the same height.

"Did you talk to her or jump her?" Cordy asked, watching the telltale blush stain his cheeks. "Are you shitting me? You couldn't keep your hands off of the woman long enough to talk to her?"

"I wasn't the only person kissing. She kissed me back."

"Calm down. Okay, you kissed her. Did she slap you or anything like that?" Cordy wrapped her arms around her waist.

"No," he said. "Why are you asking me stupid questions?" Spike reached in his pocket for his cigarettes.

"Men. How you're able to learn to hold your penises and pee straight is beyond me?" Cordy threw her hands in the air. "Hello, genius. A woman, who isn't interested, would have laid you out with a kick to the groin. She didn't. She kissed you. Now, she's either the nicest person in the world or she's not as committed to her boyfriend as she's pretends."

"That's just wishful thinking on your part." Spike flicked the lighter, watching the plume of smoke as it wafted over his head.

Cordy walked into the living room, opening the door to the back porch. Spike leapt over the side of the couch, landing with a grunt. He quickly slumped down, so as not to lose any cool points. "You want her to be unattached."

"Yes, I do. After the hell Dru put you through, you're damn right, I want you to be with Buffy. I want you to be with anyone who makes you happy. And let me tell you buddy, you were happy. Now, you could have been coming off a sex high, but I don't think so." Cordy plopped down beside Spike on the sofa.

"I'm taking her to dinner tomorrow night. Where should we go since this isn't a "date" so to speak?"

"Ipolitos, of course. That way, Lindsey and I can check her out."

"No way. Having the two of you staring at us all night will give me indigestion." Spike shook his head, vehemently, but Cordy merely smiled.

"You're coming to the restaurant. It's a nice, family place. Not too romantic. Not too commercial. It's perfect. Then, you can take her back to your place and have Mama's tiramisu."

"Are you insane? She won't come back to my apartment."

Cordy gave him a patronizing look. "She will. You just have to ask her the right way. If you say it in a way that suggests sex, then she's going to bolt." Cordy pulled her feet up on the couch, sitting at an angle to Spike. "Invite her in a way that says, 'hey, we're friends. We can have dessert together without it being anything out of the ordinary'."

Spike furrowed his brow. He could be her friend. He wanted to be her friend. This would be the perfect opportunity to get to know her without the sex getting in the way. "You're right." Cordy nodded her head in agreement. "I can do this. I can do dinner. I'm not a walking hormone. I've had dinner with friends before without our clothes coming off."

Cordy continued to smile, squinting her nose at him. "But Spike, I've got to tell you. Having sex with her, no matter how great it would be, would be a big mistake at this point."

"I know that. Do you think I would jeopardize my chances by giving in to my libido?"

Cordy stared at him, watching his cheek tick. "No, I don't think you'd do anything to push her away, but you are a MAN!!!!!"

"Thanks for the support." Spike said, snarkily.

"You're welcome."

ch. 4

Buffy tossed and turned, finally giving up on sleep about 5 am. She tiptoed downstairs, carefully not to wake Dawn and Joyce. Buffy padded barefoot across the marble foyer to the library. She searched the room till she found the book that occupied her dreams. Buffy flipped the book over, her hand tracing Spike's smiling photo. To her critical eye, she saw room for improvement. There were shadows from the bad lighting, and she would have suggested a different colored shirt. Maybe, black or a blue to match his eyes, she mused.

"William, William, want do you have to say for yourself?" Buffy said to the empty kitchen. She put the coffee on, and sat down at the table. She didn't want to read about his ex, she had heard most of the ugly details that night. The part she was interested in was the chapters on their night together. She had to know what made her mother think their was some sort of love connection between them.

"I watched her get in her car, and for the first time, it hit me what a special gift I'd just been given. The entire night we spent together might never have happened if not for my ex. That's a scary thought, my ex helping me. She never did when we were together. I guess I'm indebted to her for sending me to this woman. From her, I got the strength to finally put my relationship where it belonged, in the grave. Never again, would I think sadly or remorsefully on my time spent with my dark princess. She was my past, a past I was grateful to see gone. I wish I knew my golden girl's name, so I could at least thank her for doing what no one else had been able to do, free me. I call her my golden girl, but that seems like a disservice. She was more than a cute name. She was light and hope, and she made me feel as if anything was possible in this world. And the funny thing is, I don't think she realizes her own strength."

Buffy put the book down touched by the words. It was humbling to know he felt that way about her.

"Buffy, what are doing up so early." Joyce asked from the doorway. "I thought I smelled fresh coffee, I assumed it was Dawn going out for an early run."

"Nope, just your eldest. I couldn't sleep."

"Missing Riley?" Joyce asked carefully. She saw Buffy's hand tightened on the book.

"No, not really. Just have a lot of things to do. I guess I took them to bed with me."

Joyce placed a steaming cup of coffee down in front of Buffy, and went to get the cream and sugar. Buffy pushed the book away, and stared at the black liquid in front of her.

"Want to talk about it?" Joyce asked, in that motherly tone that told Buffy, she really didn't have a choice but to talk to her.

"Have you ever done something totally unexpected and have it come back to bite you in the ass?"

"Maybe, if I knew what you'd done, I'd know how to answer this question? Does this have anything to do with William Giles?" Joyce looked steadily at Buffy, noting how Buffy avoided her eyes.

"Why would this have anything to do about him?" Buffy asked alarmed.

"Buffy, I'm your mother. I know you. You haven't been yourself since you got back from San Marino and that book signing. Whenever his name is mentioned, you blush and look away. You're the girl in the book, aren't you?" Joyce folded her hands, patiently waiting for Buffy to answer her.

"Yes. I am." Buffy looked away, embarrassed her mother knew she'd had a one-night stand.

"Buffy, you're a grown woman. I'm not trying to pry into your affairs." Buffy's eyes widened. "No pun intended." Joyce reached out, and lightly tapped Buffy's chin.

"Mom! I can't believe you said that." Buffy said, laughing.

"Sorry, couldn't resist, and it got you to loosen up."

"It's so complicated Mom."

"It's only complicated if you make it, Buffy. Have you told him about Riley?"

"Yes, he doesn't care."

"He wants to be with you, even after all this time?" Joyce sipped her coffee, thoughtfully.

"Yes. It's like the last 3 years didn't even occur. I told him we could only be friends." Joyce's brow furrowed.

"Well, if that's what you really want, Buffy, then I think it's for the best." Joyce didn't mention the look of abject sadness on Buffy's face.

"I don't want him to disappear again."

"Why would it matter Buffy?" Joyce was deliberately non-committal when she asked that question. Buffy was a walking billboard. Everything she felt was displayed on her face, in her eyes, and this was not an easy decision for her.

Buffy shrugged "It just does. That night meant something to me, too." She whispered

"Did it?" Joyce said, her voice registering her surprise.

Buffy rolled her eyes. "Look at you, Mom. I don't mean in the Romeo and Juliet way. I had a problem I couldn't solve on my own, and he helped me make the decision. He listened, that's all.

"He listened to you when your father and I didn't. This is about your decision to quit the business school."

Buffy nodded. "I couldn't tell you. I thought you and Daddy would be disappointed in me."

"We've never been more proud of you, Buffy. Your decision showed us you'd finally grown up, and were ready to be the woman we'd always hoped you'd be."

Buffy teared up. "Really?"

"Buffy, Daddy and I will always love you, no matter what you decide to do with your life."

"William sounds as if he'd be a good friend to have, Buffy. I think it's a good idea to keep him around."

"Spike."

"Spike?" Joyce asked, confused by the switch in topics.

"Yeah," Buffy giggled. "That's his nickname."

"That's cute." Joyce said, picking up the book and looking at the picture.

"Mom, could we not mention to Daddy about the sex? I don't want him to get the wrong idea. That was a one-time deal."

"Buffy, we were young once. We do understand getting caught up in the moment. I hope you used protection, though?" Joyce said pointedly.

Buffy had to do this right or this conversation would never end. "Yes, Mom. You know I'm all about 'no love, no glove'."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Dawn saw Spike's bike parked on the side of the building and said a quick prayer of thanks for her good luck. She had some advice for him on how to break through Buffy's well-developed practicalness.

The bell jingled, and Spike stood up, surprised at the customer. He couldn't help, but smile, wondering what the younger Summers was doing here.

"Dawn, isn't it?" Spike wiped his hands on a cloth, and waited for Dawn to stop staring at him.

"Yes. You remembered." Too bad you're all into my sister, she sighed.

"What can I help you with?"

"Oh, two things." Dawn said. "I'm looking for something unique for my mom's birthday, and I want to help you split up Buffy and Riley." She strode over to the sculpture section, checking out the African pieces.

"Does Buffy know you're here?" He asked, shocked at her boldness.

"No, she's at work. I thought you might like some insight into Buffy's character before your dinner tonight." Dawn gestured at the black marble figurine. "This is beautiful. Who's the artist?"

"Udele. He's from Ghana. This piece is of a mother and child. At the bottom, she's nursing the child, and at the top, she's lifting the child up into adulthood."

"It's breathtaking. Did your father travel to Ghana to get this?"

"No, Udele is a friend. They met many years ago when Udele was visiting England. He sends dad pieces every now and then. Actually, we just got that one in." Spike pointed to the dismantled boxes littering the store floor.

"Oh, I'm disturbing you. I'm sorry. I can come back."

"Not if you're going to help me by tonight." Spike grinned and Dawn grinned back.

"Then, we'd better get started. Buffy's a complicated woman."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"I'm going to close up at 5, so I should be home no later than 5:30." Buffy took the tongs off the hook, and moved the white sheet around in the developing solution.

"Riley said he was going to stop by before going to work tonight. I'm not meeting Spike until 7:30, so that gives us plenty of time to talk." Buffy's attention was drawn to the developing picture. It was a close-up of Spike. She decided to do some of the photos in black and white. This was one of the black and white ones, and it showed off his eyes beautifully.

"Sorry, Tara. Somebody is at the door. I gotta go. Okay, I'll see you then. Bye."

Buffy wiped her hands on a towel, and hung the photo up to dry. "You can let go of that buzzer at anytime buddy."

Buffy stormed to the back door, peeking out the peephole. Riley was standing outside, looking around. Buffy closed her eyes, took a deep breath, and opened the door.

"Hi, babe." Riley said walking past her.

"Hi, what are you doing here?"

"Thought I might take you out for lunch since I've got to work tonight."

"I wish I could. I've got 3 more rolls to develop, plus 2 shoots before five."

"You're closing early, why?"

"I'm going to dinner with a friend from college. We ran into each other at the book signing yesterday." That wasn't a complete lie. Just an itty bitty one.

"Oh, well, I can help you develop your pictures." He looked so cute, Buffy hated to say 'no'. It would be nice to have some help, and it would keep her mind off the man she was meeting later.

"Okay. Do you remember how we did it last time?"

"I remember." Riley said, watching Buffy's butt sway in her cargo pants.

Buffy moved the photos of Spike to the other side of the room.

Riley stared at the photo. "Is this the guy?"

Buffy looked over her shoulder. "What guy?" She asked suspiciously.

"The guy that wrote the book, silly."

"Yeah, his name is William Giles."

"Hmm, interesting." Riley said, disliking the blond instantly. Why did it seem like he was smirking at him?

"Riley, you said you were going to help me. Because if you aren't sweetie, I'm going to have to ask you to go, nicely, of course. I'm on a deadline."

"Ah, my little Bufffy is busy." Riley pulled Buffy into his chest, hugging her tightly. Buffy scrunched her nose up. Obviously today wasn't wash day. She guessed, holding her breath.

"You are so tense. Let me help you." Riley massaged her shoulders and neck, and Buffy had to admit, it felt good. She thought nothing of it, when he turned her around, kneading the muscles of her back. It was only when he dropped to his knees, and lifted her shirt did she realize his intent.

"Uh, Riley. Not now. I don't want to." She said, attempting to turn around.

"Buff. You need this." Riley said, allowing her to turn around in his arms. "Let me help you unwind." He planted kisses on her bellybutton, and Buffy squirmed, but not from pleasure. Riley was her boyfriend, and he wanted to fool around. This was normal behavior between a man and a woman, then why was she resisting? The blonde-eyed man staring back at her from across the room, might have something to do with it, her mind insisted.

She felt Riley's hands pulling at her pants, and she resigned herself to the sex. It wasn't right to deny him because of Spike. Buffy toed off her shoes, and stepped out of her pants. She winced at the rough manner in which Riley stroked her cleft. Buffy parted her legs, hoping Riley would stop jabbing into her tender flesh.

"God, you are so beautiful." Riley mumbled from between her thighs. Buffy fisted her fingers in his hair, trying to forget the feel of soft, blond curls.

"Uh, huh." She said, willing her body to react appropriately. She gasped as his fingers pushed inside her. She could do this. She cared about Riley. He cared about her. His soft, green eyes could melt anyone's heart.

"Riley, I need you inside me."

"I need to be inside you." He answered.

Buffy heard the distinctive sound of the condom wrapper ripping, and she breathed a sigh of relief. She wouldn't have to clean spunk off the walls. Hallelujah.

When he had the condom in place, he pulled her to his mouth, kissing her passionately. This was the right thing to do. This was her life. She had to keep that mantra up as Riley lifted her up, and she felt his throbbing cock ease into her slick folds. She wasn't as ready as she would have liked, but she wrapped her legs around his waist, and held on tightly as he pleasured her with long, hard strokes, driving incessantly into her warmth. Buffy closed her eyes because she couldn't stand to look at him, lost in the sensation of her muscles milking him. She wasn't anywhere near a climax, but she would give him all she had, and hoped it would be enough.

Riley gripped her hips, holding her close as she rocked on his cock. "I'm gonna cum, Buffy."

"Oh, baby, me too. Harder, harder. I'm almost there." She screamed.

She could just hear Lorne's voice in her ear. "And the Oscar for Best performance in the Fake Orgasm category goes to….drum roll please…. Buffy Summers."

Buffy whimpered and moaned as her nails dug into Riley's shoulder. The pain was enough to send him over the edge, and she winced as the counter pressed painfully into her back. Riley was breathing heavily, kissing her forehead, and mumbling incoherent words of love and praise into her hair.

Buffy rubbed her hands on his back, willing his penis to soften quicker so she could run to the bathroom, and clean up. It struck her as ironic that she made love to Spike all night, and had never thought of washing his scent off her body, but one more minute with Riley's sweat on her skin was going to make her ill.

Her mind taunted her. Please, girl. You know damn well why everything was better with Spike. This isn't brain surgery, Buffy.

"Whew, Buff. I needed that." Riley said when Buffy finally opened her eyes. "I know you needed that. Do you feel better now?" He said seductively, swirling his hips.

"I needed that." She said, kissing him slowly, twisting her tongue around his.

The phone rang, and Riley swore. "Let it ring. Give me a few minutes, and we can go again." Buffy shook her head.

"I can't." She said, adding a pout as she urged him to put her down, which he did, reluctantly.

Buffy tripped over her pants, and staggered bare-ass to the phone on the wall.

"Hello."

"Buffy, this is Spike." Buffy closed her eyes. Why me, lord? Am I a bad person? Do I deserve this?

"Buffy?"

"Yeah, I'm here. You know, this isn't really a good time for me."

"Why? Is your boyfriend there?" Spike scowled when she didn't answer. He had to remind himself Riley was the boyfriend, for now.

"Um.."

"Don't worry. I called to give you the directions to Ipolito's. You can call me at the Magic Box. Do you have the number?"

Buffy jumped as Riley rubbed his erection into her backside. She shooed him away. "I can find it. I'll call you back." She quickly hung the phone up, and turned around to find Riley completely naked, and raring to go.

"Riley, I told you I have to work. We're not doing this again." She said, reaching to pick up her pants.

"It'll be quick, I promise you." Riley reached his hands around her waist, rubbing her taut belly.

"No!" Buffy said, pushing his hands off of her. "No, means no. I have to work. I don't have time for this sweetie."

Riley was immediately contrite, but his penile situation hadn't gotten the message. "Okay, I get you have to work, but.." And he pointed to his crotch.

"Are you asking me to blow you?" Buffy asked incredulous. He couldn't be this thick.

"From your tone, I'm thinking that would be a 'no'." Riley said, picking up his shorts, and sliding them gently over his throbbing member.

"That would be no." Buffy said, hating having to be harsh with him. She rose up and gave him a kiss on the lips, quickly pulling away in case he got the wrong impression.

"Thanks for the diversion, though."

"My…um…pleasure. I'll just be in the bathroom." Riley moved gingerly to the door, turning his back when he saw Dawn standing at the front door, keys in hand.

"Riley." She threw off-handedly at him.

"Dawn." He groaned.

Dawn noticed his state, and the devil took over her. "Riley, can I ask you a question? My friend has this old board his grandfather used to use back in the day. Do you think he can restore it without losing the feel of the board? Riley…are you okay? You sure are sweating a lot."

"Dawn!" Buffy yelled, coming out and seeing the pained look on Riley's face, and the gleeful expression on Dawn's.

Riley gave her a grateful, tight-lipped grin, and scrambled off as best as possible to the bathroom.

Buffy yanked Dawn back into the backroom, letting the darkroom air out.

"Did you just screw him?" Dawn accused her in a harsh whisper.

"Is that really any of your business, Dawn?"

"Yes, it is. I work here too. What if I had had someone with me, and you're in there getting busy with your… your boyfriend?" Dawn wasn't upset with Buffy for having sex, it was having sex with Riley, and she was meeting Spike later.

"Dawn, these things happen between couples." Buffy explained, wishing this day over.

"Especially, when one of them is denying her feelings for someone else." Dawn angrily uttered in Buffy's ear.

"I am not doing that. I was having sex with my boyfriend." The sisters glared at each other, only stopping when they heard the bathroom door open. They stuck their heads through the curtain, and watched a wobbly-kneed Riley peek into the darkroom.

"Don't move. I'll be right back."

"Riley," she said as he hugged her. "Sorry, we didn't have the time to do that properly." She said sensuously for Dawn and Riley's benefits.

"That's okay. That should tide me over till tomorrow. I promise you an all-day marathon. Thank god for Sundays."

"Yah, go Sundays!!" Buffy shouted. "You'd better go. I don't want to be tempted."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Spike stood under the showerhead, letting the hot water scorch his skin. He winced at the temperature, but he needed something to deaden him, make him numb. He should have been happy. He was going to see Buffy again, but that call had him angry. Why had fate brought her back into his life only to have her involved with someone else?

After she'd abruptly ended the call, he'd briefly considered hurling the thing against the wall. He didn't, knowing that wouldn't have solved anything, and would have pissed off his dad. Giles came into the room, took one look at Spike, and headed the other way. He returned with a glass of the house special, and handed it to Spike, urging him to drink. The cool, minty brew had done nothing to calm him, but his father's presence had.

"Spike, do you still want to go to dinner with Buffy? No one would blame you for backing out."

"I'm going. I've never backed down from a challenge in my life. She was with him, and I'm jealous, plain and simple."

Giles sat at his desk, staring at the papers on it, before clearing his throat. Spike closed his eyes, knowing a lecture was coming. He opened them, fully expecting Giles to have his glasses in hand, cleaning them. He did and Spike chuckled at the familiar gesture.

"Spike, this isn't 3 years ago. You must remember that in all that time, life has gone on, for both of you. You can't expect her to transform her life just because you chose this time to reappear in it."

"What if tonight is the end? What if after tonight she walks right back out of my life?"

"That's a risk you're going to have to take. Spike, if it's meant to be with her, it will. Look at Anya and me. Did you ever think I'd marry after all these years?"

Spike shook his head over the lovesick look on Giles' face. "No, but I'm glad you did."

"I am too. I waited 46 years to find the perfect woman for me. You've only waited 3. Learn some patience, my boy." Giles smacked Spike affectionately on the back, and went out front to finish the unloading. "Don't expect too much from tonight. Just let things happen."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Spike turned the water off, and grabbed a towel off the rack. He barely had his foot out the tub, when he heard the doorbell ring. Wrapping the towel around his waist, he ran to the door to see who it was.

He smiled, seeing the brown-headed man shuffling impatiently at the door.

"When did you get back from your trip?" Spike stepped aside, and Cordelia's little brother entered, carrying a paper bag from Ipolitos.

"Late last night. Of course, Cordy had me up early this morning running errands for the club and the restaurant. Sorry, I missed your set last night. Heard it was inspiring." Connor smirked as he walked into the living room.

"I swear I'm gonna start calling your sister 'Chatty Cathy'. The woman can't keep a secret. You want a beer? I need a beer." Spike pulled two Warsteiner's out the fridge and handed one to Connor.

"Don't blame Cordy. It was actually Mama who told me." Connor shrugged at Spike's shocked look. "Hey, they talk constantly. It was the first thing I heard this morning over coffee. Just to warn you, don't be surprised if Mama pulls out all the stops. You know how she gets. She can smell romance from a mile away. She should have been a matchmaker in a former life."

"Great. An Italian grandmother on the prowl. When's she going set her sights on you?" Spike teased, taking a swig of the German brew.

"Thankfully, she's given up on me."

"Nah, she's just waiting you out. As soon as Lindsey pops the question, you're toast." Connor nodded, resigned to that fact.

"Before I forget, here's the tiramisu. It's from Mama's special batch. Cordy said she started making it last night, so it's potent." Connor handed Spike the two boxes. Spike put them in the fridge, wondering if he'd be eating them by himself tonight.

"Give me the 411. Are those two meddlesome females planning something tonight?" Spike jokingly asked.

"No, they want to see how you do on your own, but if they suspect things are going badly, they'll intervene." Connor grinned.

Spike groaned, knowing things could be worse. Dru and Angel could show up at the restaurant too. Oh, can't forget the boyfriend. Connor looked at his watch and swore.

"Dude, I've got to go. Gotta stop by Cordy's before heading back to the restaurant. I'll see you later." Spike walked him to the door, readjusting the towel as he went.

"See ya later, Romeo." Connor said, blowing kisses at him as he walked backwards down the front walk.

"Very funny, whelp. You should be a comedian." This is going to be a disaster. Spike thought. He scratched his chin, and went off to shave.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Buffy pulled out another outfit and threw it on the bed. She glanced at the clock. 5:15. Thanks to Dawn's silent treatment, they were able to get all the rolls developed and the shoots completed early. Buffy came home, drew a hot, bubble bath, and had soaked in the tub, till her skin puckered. Buffy hated fighting with Dawn, especially when there wasn't anything to fight about. Buffy was dating Riley. If they wanted to have sex, they could. Then, why did she feel like she was cheating on Spike? She should be feeling just the opposite. Riley was her boyfriend. Spike was the former lover. Buffy dunked her head in the water, holding her breath till it was necessary to come up for air.

Spike. Riley. Riley. Spike. She really didn't have a choice in the matter. Spike was too late. That girl he dreamed about, the one he wrote about in his book, didn't exist. Not since that night. She didn't take chances anymore. Her life had order and structure, and for some reason, she didn't think it would with Spike. Everything about him was bright and carefree. And Riley offers you stability? Her brain asked. Yes, there was nothing surprising about Riley. He was predictable. Oh, how droll, her mind taunted.

Buffy sighed again, noticing that a good 10 minutes had passed while she was in dreamland. She needed to get her ass in gear. The Troika would be here soon. As if on cue, the doorbell rang. Buffy didn't bother to go to it, knowing either Tara or Willow would use their key.

"Darling, we're here." She heard Lorne yell from the front.

"In the bedroom, guys!"

And like the misfit group they were, in walked the famous Troika of San Diego State University. Buffy had met the threesome in her freshman year at SDSU. They took her under their wings, showing her the sights and sounds of the San Diego area. They'd also encouraged her love for photography. They had taken it upon themselves to screen and run off many potential suitors. She didn't know what she'd do without them.

"Buffy, you look like a wet poodle. Is this the new look for young twentysomethings?" Lorne smiled and hugged her tightly. "Long time, no see, my dear."

Buffy giggled. "Thanks, Lorne. And how's the new girlfriend? Heard she's into retro. Big hair, heavy makeup, too small dresses.

"Yikes, Buffy! That describes half the women in Venice." Tara picked up a blue fitted shirt, giving it the once over before throwing it back on the bed.

"Everyone take a glass." Willow told them, handing out shot glasses of Tequila. "Okay, on 3, slam."

"One." Tara said. "Two." Lorne said. "Three." Buffy finished.

Buffy's mouth twisted and she shook her head to clear the haze the tequila created. "Whew! I'm done. That's all I need is to be drunk when I see Spike."

"Yes, we wouldn't want anything to happen while you were under the influence." Lorne drawled sarcastically, placing his glass on the dresser.

"Are these our choices for tonight, dear?" Lorne asked, disdainfully picking up a white gauzy shirt. He shook his head. "Oh, I don't think so."

"What's wrong with that blouse? Riley likes it."

"Just one more reason it needs to go." Willow said, joining Lorne inside the walk-in closet.

"First things, first. We have a little presentation for you, Buffy." Tara said, running out of the room.

"Buffy have a seat, please." Lorne guided her over to the bed, and sat her down.

Buffy groaned good-naturedly. "What have you three gone and done now?"

Tara came back into the room with a sketchpad, and leaned it against the mirror. Lorne stood to one side, and Willow stood on the other.

"Doll, just so you know this wasn't done to influence you in either direction. We got the impression from our many talks over the years and in the last few days, that you may have questions concerning your feelings for Riley and Spike."

"So, we made up a checklist of important points." Willow said, smiling cheekily.

"Did you stop for drinks before coming here?" Buffy asked them, failing miserably not to laugh.

"Yes, we did, but that's besides the point. We want to help you with this decision." Tara told her.

"There's no decision to make. I already have a boyfriend." Buffy protested.

"Yes, you do, but, and I don't think I'm out of line here, you have some lingering feelings for Spike." Willow argued back.

"Fine. Whatever. Let's just get on with it." Buffy conceded, knowing this was a losing battle.

"Okay, love. We picked the 4 most important qualities in a man." Willow said, grinning. "Well, to you anyway. Tara and I aren't picky."

"Obviously." Lorne quipped. Tara smacked him on the arm.

"What? It's the truth." Lorne rolled his eyes, and stuck his tongue out at her.

"The most important quality is his ability to give you an orgasm. Now, we're not talking those 'ah, I could have had a V8' orgasm. We're talking the 'omigod, I'm crawling out of my skin because my body's vibrating so much it hurts' kind of orgasm."

Buffy was stunned. They were certifiable, but that pretty much described the orgasms Spike gave her.

"So, do we put a mark under Spike's name or Riley's?" Lorne prompted. Buffy gulped. They were staring at her carefully, watching her skin turn a pretty shade of red.

"Um.. um.. this is ridiculous. I'm not going to rank my orgasms by lover. They are two totally different people. They have different techniques, different penises, for goodness sake."

"Methinks the lady doth protest too much." Willow commented. "Put a check under Spike's name. If it was Riley, she would have jumped at the chance to tell us."

"Willow." Buffy shouted, knowing she'd been caught.

"Okay, on to the second quality. Shared interests. We only have what Dawn told us about Spike's father and his store, and what we know about you to set a criteria for this category."

"Spike." Buffy quickly amended the statement. "But I'm not with Riley because of shared interests. Not every person you become involved with likes the same things you do."

"Uh, huh." Lorne said, putting another check under Spike's name.

"Well then, on to number three. Looks slash build. Which one suits you best?" Willow asked her.

"Dawn was more than happy to give us a description of Spike Giles. 5'10" with blond hair and blue eyes with muscles everywhere, but not the bulky kind. She said he reminded her of a swimmer." Buffy wasn't sure if she liked Tara's obvious enjoyment of Spike's attributes.

"Then, we have Riley Finn, typical Southern California surfer dude. Tall, muscular, sandy blonde hair, green eyes, gentle soul." Lorne smiled, and then stuck his finger down his throat.

"So Buffy, which body type do you like?" Tara asked in the same vein of a survey taker in the mall.

"I don't know. I like them both." That's not true. How many times have you complained Riley was too tall? And the whole posture thing? Be honest, girl.

They waited for her to mentally deny the truth before getting impatient. Lorne gestured to Tara to go on to the next question.

"Fine, we move on to the last one. It's important because it gives us a glimpse of where this relationship could go? Ability to drive Buffy wild." Tara wiggled her eyebrows, and Buffy had a sudden urge to wrap her fingers around her throat.

"What's that supposed to mean? Is that in a good sense or a bad sense?" Buffy asked confused.

"Is there a good or bad wild? Wild is wild." Lorne said.

"We're talking about the ability to make you do crazy, unpredictable, loud, uninhibited things like spending the night, all night having mad, passionate, legs too sore to move the next day sex." Buffy felt like a human match. Her traitorous body had an excellent memory, and it was reminding her in a not so unpleasant way just how wild she could get.

"Buffy? Are you okay?" Tara asked, grinning at her. "You look a little flushed. So who makes you wild, Riley or Spike?"

"That's the tequila, nothing else, witch!" Buffy stood up, ignoring the knowing looks from her best friends.

"Put a check under Spike's name, Lorne. I think we have our answer." Willow told him giddly. "It's the classic avoidance technique. I see it all the time at work."

"I'm not avoiding anything. I'm trying to get dressed for dinner." Came the snarky reply from the bathroom.

"Buffy, dear, we're just trying to help." Lorne told her. "We meant no harm."

"Oh, I know full well what you demons were about, but it doesn't matter." She said, coming out of the bathroom with dots of foundation all over her face. "Dating Riley. Not dating Spike."

"Buffy's right." Tara piped in. "She's with Riley. Why else would she have sex with him, if she didn't care about him?"

"Doll face, what were you thinking?"

"Lorne, Riley is my boyfriend. We are in a relationship. Please tell me, Dawn didn't ring you up with that information?"

"Well," Willow hedged. She looked over at Tara who nodded, and got up to get the bottle of Tequila. "Riley told Xander. He was bragging about it."

"Are you just saying that so I don't kill Dawn or is that the truth?"

Lorne blanched. "We do not lie to each other. We may trick and manipulate each other for the greater good, but we do not lie."

"You know you just fucked up all chances of having sex with Spike tonight?" Tara poured another round of Tequila. She handed one to Buffy, who threw back the shot, choking on the hot liquid.

"Is that why you did it?" Willow accused her.

"No, he wanted to so we did. He missed me last night."

"He missed you." Tara stated. "What about you? Did you miss him?"

"That's not the point and you know it. And this was no lame ass attempt on my part to stop myself from sleeping with Spike. This was all about Riley, his pleasure." Buffy shook her head, and went back into the bathroom.

Lorne looked at Willow. Willow looked at Tara. They stood in the doorway, watching as Buffy made up her face. Buffy could feel their eyes boring into her skin. "You guys act as if this doesn't happen in relationships. Are you telling me you've never been in the mood, but went ahead and had sex anyway?" Buffy looked over her shoulder at them. They all nodded reluctantly. Finally, an argument was going her way.

"Look, I appreciate everything you're trying to do, but this thing with Spike is in the past. It has to be."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Buffy felt like a teenager going on her first date. Mom and dad were sitting in the living room with a camera at the ready. Yeah, it was just like that. Oh, except for the fact, it was actually two mother hens and a self-proclaimed stud muffin.

"So, how do I look?" She asked, twirling around to give them the full view of her attire. They'd decided on a black skirt with a paisley design in turquoise on the hip. The top was turquoise with a black cut-out paisley design. She wore a pair of strappy, black sandals. Lorne curled her hair, and it fell in thick waves down her back.

"Beautiful. Absolutely marvelous." Lorne said and dabbed at his eye for effect.

"Look, Tara. Our little girl is all-grown up." Willow and Tara were on the sofa, holding hands, and a little tipsy by Buffy's guess.

"I feel a Kodak moment coming on." Tara grabbed one of Buffy's cameras and snapped a few pictures.

"Make sure you have an emergency quarter. We'll come and get you." This seemed the funniest statement to them. They fell on each other, laughing hysterically.

"Promise me, you guys will stay here tonight. Or at least until you sober up." She said seriously.

"Yes, Miss Buffy, we'll stay here. We want to hear all about the dinner." Lorne grabbed Buffy's purse, and escorted her to the door. "Go, you don't want to keep him waiting."

"Just remember, I do have neighbors. No wild pool parties, and please no orgies." She said, grinning at them. They stood in the doorway, waving idiotically at her. Buffy waved them back inside, and pulled out of the drive.

As soon as she cleared the driveway, they straightened up, all semblances of drunkenness gone. "Do you think she's going to sleep with him?" Tara said, watching Buffy's taillights in the distance.

"Yep. I'd bet on it. If not tonight, soon." Willow said.

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