ch. 12

A/N: Yeah, I know. This one was a long time in coming. I apologize. I got writers' block, and I also didn't want to do this chapter until I finished a chapter on the Prophecy. I've decided to try and do both at once, so updates may be a bit longer in coming. Thanks for all the support, and everything.

~~~~~~~~~~
“Did he sound truly depressed on the phone or was he more like ‘oh, fuck, I won’t get fucked this week’?” Willow asked as they crept down the hall to Lorne’s bedroom.

“Now, that’s a hard question to answer, Will. He sounded happy at first, maybe a little envious that Buffy was getting more action than he was getting, but happy. Then, whammo, out of the blue, bonding time.”

“If you had to guess, which would it be?” They pushed the door open, looking high and low for their devilishly handsome friend.

“I’d say depressed. He said he really liked her.”

“He said that about Ms. English, too. And all he did was screw her for a passing grade in American History.”

“That’s true. But,” Tara said, stopping just inside the room. “Will, he did have his GPA to worry about. He had to prioritize.”

The door to the bathroom was closed, so they knocked. “Go away! I’m drowning in my sorrows!”

They both rolled their eyes, opening the door. “Look you big old Drama Queen, get out of that tub and get dressed. We’re off to the grocery store, and then to Buffy’s. We’ll even let you roll the cart.” Willow told him.

“Don’t want to. She dumped me. ME! I haven’t been dumped since 6th grade.”

Tara went to sit on the edge of the tub, playing idly with the bubbles. “Lorne, honey. It happens. Now, get your ass out of there before your dick shrinks too much.”

Lorne pushed through the bubbles, staring at his baby lovingly. Vixens. There was no shrinkage going on. He made sure to keep the water warm.

“Lorne, will you please get out of the bath, so we can go?”

“If you gals would just step outside, I’d get out. Don’t want you getting a peek at my lovely bod.” He said primly.

Willow stood at the door, her arms crossed over her chest. “Oh, please, like we haven’t seen what you’ve got already. And might I say, in much better condition. We got to it before you decided to dip it in every open space.” She turned on her heel, heading for the kitchen and the box of Reese’s she knew he kept hidden in the freezer.

“I’m hurting and you’re calling me a ho!” He screamed fruitlessly at Willow.

“Yes, I am. Get dressed.” Willow screamed back down the hall.

“Tara, honey. You understand my pain, don’t you?” He said giving her the forlorn look which would have worked if she didn’t know him so well.

“Yes, of course, I do, Lorne.” Tara stroked his cheek, bending down to plant a kiss on top of his head. “I understand that you’re going through a major shock because for the first time, in a long time, your penis wasn’t able to keep a woman till you were ready to dump her.”

“Oh, get out! That’s not the truth and you know it. I really liked Lisa.”

“I know you did, but you’re a creature of habit, Lorne. First step in the Lorne book of love is to dazzle them with your charm. You pull out all the stops till they are panting for more.” She said, holding up one finger. “Two, you screw them on the first date, then stay away from them for 3 days, so they start missing you. Three, you spend the next 4 weeks being the perfect boyfriend. Then, the final step, the distancing step. You get antsy, and start to find things that irritate you, so you can find a reason to dump them.”

Lorne sunk down further in the tub, till the only part of his face seen was the eyes. “Lisa, just beat you to the punch. So, please spare us the ‘poor me, I’ve been dumped’ routine. It doesn’t work with us. Maybe, Dawn or Buffy will fall for it.”

~~~~~~~~~~
Darla stood at the doorway, smiling when she saw Heller step out of her car. Liam peered through the curtains at the two women, as they greeted each other. He poured another shot of Scotch, and slammed it back, cursing Dru as he did so. Damn her psychotic ass. If she’d only played her cards right, he would have taken her all the way with him. Now, she was going to have to make an unexpected stop here, without ever seeing the governor’s mansion.

“Heller, you look great.” Darla said, a genuine smile to her face.

“You, too. So why did it take business to get us together?” She admonished.

“I know. I’m an awful friend, but this campaign has left me little free time. You see what I’m doing on a Sunday.” Darla squeezed Heller’s arm. “Thanks for coming on such short notice.”

“No problem. I do have somewhere to be by 5:30, so we’ll have to work fast.”

“Come on in, then, and meet your new client.”

Their heels clicked on the hardwood floors of the 3-story condo. Liam stood up as they entered the office. “Liam Cavanaugh, this is Lee Heller.”

Heller’s eyes flashed with contempt at the man she saw in front of her. She had met Angel a few times before the big blowup, and he’d been a drunken mess both times, which explained why he had no idea who she was.

“Hello, Angel. You don’t remember me, do you?”

At the use of his nickname, Liam came up short. He stared into Heller’s green eyes. Did he sleep with her all those years ago? No, a man didn’t forget a woman like her.

Heller reviewed her options. Tell him the truth that she was a FOS (friend of Spike’s) or the semi-truth that she’d met him at 14Below about 4 years ago. It wasn’t a lie. It wasn’t the entire truth either. She opted on the second choice. No point in tipping her hand too soon.

“We met a few years’ ago at 14Below.” Hello, idiot. Who owns that club? Spike’s best friend. “It was your victory celebration party. For your first election.”

“Oh, yes. Well, back then, I wasn’t as upstanding as I am now. If you know what I mean.”

“Yes, well, we were all young once.” Heller stated flatly. “What can I do for you Mr. Cavanaugh?”

“Please, call me Liam.”

“Liam.” How about dickless wonder? That’s much better.

“Heller, Liam wants to divorce his wife with as little negative publicity on him as possible.”

Oh, this is better than I thought. Heller pulled out her legal pad and tape recorder. “I tape all my sessions, whether I take the case or not. If I don’t take the case, the tape is yours, along with a signed and notarized statement saying this is the only copy.” Heller pushed the record button, and noted the time and date, and the subject.

“Okay, let’s start. Why you want to divorce your wife? Has she cheated or committed any crime which could implicate you?”

Liam sat back, giving thought to his answer. “No, but she’s more than capable. And she has motivation now, William is happy.”

Heller almost blurted out. Yes, he is, and no thanks to you. But she was a professional, and this was her job. Even if Angel was a complete and total bastard, he had come to her for advice.

“Do you really believe your wife is dangerous?” If she was, then she was definitely going to break the house rule and tell Wesley.

Liam stood up abruptly, walking over to the window. “Dru was fine until the book came out. Since then, she’s been out of control.”

“In what sense? Please, I can’t give you my opinion if I don’t know everything.”

Liam lowered his head, defeated. “Her ex wrote a book. Mainly, it’s about him and how he overcame his problems and became a better man.” He said, waving his hand in the air dismissively.

“Why would she be upset about that?” Heller’s brow rose. This was ridiculous. She wasn’t one to bullshit, and tiptoeing around her relationship with Spike was giving her a headache. She pulled her shoulders back, and leveled Angel with a glare. Hell, if Cordy had written it, then Dru would have something to be mad about. And she shuddered to think what Giles would say.

“He made reference to something in my wife’s past that would be embarrassing if it came out.” He was holding something back, but Heller wouldn’t push, not until she was honest with them. She owed Darla that if no one else.

“Look, if you want my help, we need total honesty. I won’t go into a case without all the facts. On that note, I know William. I know all about Druscilla’s relationship with Spike. My fiancée is Wesley Wyndham-Price.”

“Did you know about this?” Liam shouted, spinning around and pinning Darla to her seat.

“No... yes. I didn’t realize Wesley knew William. How would I know, Liam? I was looking for the best attorney for you.” Darla argued. “She’s the best, and at least we know she has no illusions as to who the real Dru is.”

“I didn’t tell you because it was none of your business, but if I decide to take this case, you deserved the truth.

“You’ll go to the press.” Angel gritted out.

“I won’t. I am bound to secrecy. Darla, you know me. I take my job seriously, and to be honest, Angel isn’t worth a disbarment.” Darla would have laughed at the direct insult, if she wasn’t worried Liam would strangle them both and bury their bodies.

“Angel…Liam, if you want to divorce Dru, I will help you, but you have to be totally honest with me or I’ll drop you like a hot potato. No information I learn here will ever be spoken of outside of your presence. I leave the decision up to you.” Heller placed the tape recorder back in her case, along with the notepad, and waited. One way or the other she was going home to a nice surprise from Wesley, which hopefully involved them, naked and a whole lot of screaming.

“Darla, can she be trusted?” Heller heard Liam say.

“Yes.” Darla nodded. “Yes, she can.”

“You can get me out of this marriage without me losing the election?” Liam directed the question to Heller, but he never took his eyes off Darla.

“There are no guarantees in politics unless you’re bribing the voters.” Heller joked. “To answer your question, yes, I can. If we can dig up something incriminating on your wife, then yes, you can walk away free and clear.

Liam paced in front of the window, weighing his options.

“How do I know you won’t share what you learn here with Wes? Pillow talk and all.” Liam sneered.

Heller didn’t feel the need to defend her reputation to a man with the scruples of a turnip. “You’ll just have to trust me. Just as I’ll have to trust that you’re not bullshitting me.”

“Heller will give you 100%, Liam. You can trust her.” Heller smiled tightly at Darla.

“Fine, but if I think you’re betraying me, I’ll report you to the Bar Association.”

“I wouldn’t expect anything less.” Heller picked up her briefcase, and extended her hand to Liam. “My office will contact you about setting up another meeting. I trust you don’t want to meet in public?”

“No, I think coming here will be best. We wouldn’t want the press to get wind of anything.” Darla answered, escorting Heller to the door.

“Darla, we’ll talk.” Heller squeezed her hand quickly before taking her leave.

Darla closed the door, softly locking it. She felt Liam’s eyes boring into her back, and she braced herself for the coming storm.

“That was stupid.” Liam said, sitting down on the couch.

“I’m sorry, Liam. I didn’t even think about Wesley and Spike. I’ve only seen Wesley a couple of times in the last few years, and we don’t talk shop.”

Darla sat down next to him on the couch. “She is one of the best. She will do everything in her power to get Dru out of your life.” Darla reached out and took Liam’s hand in hers. “I didn’t work this hard to get you here, to watch it all go down the drain because Dru’s psychotic.”

Liam chuckled. “You got me here. That’s funny. I thought I did all the work.”

Darla stood up. Yeah, you would think that, but we both know the truth. “You may not be the best friend a person could have, Liam, but you have done a great job in office. I believe in you.”

“Thanks, Darla. I guess I should be going.”

“Yes, I suppose so.” Darla clasped her hands behind her back. They walked quietly to the door.

“Have a good day, Darla.” He said, kissing her lightly on the cheek. “I know my behavior with William and Dru wasn’t my finest hour, but I have no quarrel with William. He’s the lucky one. He’s not married to Dru.”

Darla squeezed his arm. “Just concentrate on the election, and leave Dru to me and Heller. Have I ever failed you, Liam?”

“No, you haven’t. That’s why I hired you.”

Darla closed the door, leaning against it. God, she needed a drink.


~~~~~~~~~~
Druscilla sat in the cramped, dingy office, and wondering what the dry cleaning bill would be for her entire outfit. The place reeked of stale cigarettes and old coffee. The owner/proprietor obviously hadn’t had a client in awhile, which would make him hungry. He’d get the information he needed and quickly if he wanted the sizeable retainer she was offering him.

“What can I do for you, Ms. Ali?” The fat, balding man asked as he eased his body into the chair.

“I’m looking for information on a young woman. She’s in possession of something very important to me, and I need to know everything there is about her. It’ll help in my negotiations with her.”

Phillip Barton was no fool, and he also wasn’t deaf, dumb, and blind. He read the papers, and knew the woman in front of him was none other than State Senator Liam Cavanaugh’s wife, Druscilla. He wondered what game she was playing. Was the senator playing hide the salami with this woman? He’d find out. Then, he’d sell his information to the tabloids, and make a nice profit from this little expenditure.

“What’s the woman’s name?” Phillip searched for a pen through the pile of papers scattered about the desk. He found one, and stood poise to write the particulars of his target.
Druscilla smiled, and Phillip felt as if he were signing a deal with the devil. “Her name is Elizabeth Summers.”

“Elizabeth Summers. What kind of investigation do you want? 24 hour surveillance? Business contacts only? Personal?”

“All of it. I need to know what she eats for breakfast to what type of sheets she has on her bed. I want it all, and I want it soon. There’s a bonus for you if you can finish the job within a week.”

Phillip wiped his mouth, counting the money he could bring in on this job. 24-hour surveillance. Holy shit! He’d be able to pay off Bennie, and maybe take a side trip to Vegas.

“Well, for that type of service, there’s no way I could do it for under $5000.” He said, looking up at her.

Five thousand dollars seemed a small price to pay for achieving her goal. “Fine. Small bills or hundreds?”

Phillip felt a stirring deep in his loins. She was going to give him the money today. He’d be able to go and get him a couple of girls tonight.

Dru’s lip curled into a sneer. She could see the effect her offer was having on him, and she wanted nothing more than to be out of here before it got any more obvious.

“Hundreds. That’ll be fine.”

“I’ll be back in a hour. Meet me outside.”

“Thank you, Ms. Ali. I’ll have that info for you on Friday. You can have my bonus ready and waiting.”

“Good day, Mr. Barton.” Dru stood up and walked out of the room, closing the door behind her.

~~~~~~~~~~

“So, is Spike staying tonight?” Dawn asked as they walked in with the groceries.

Buffy’s startled look told Dawn she hadn’t thought that far ahead. “Umm, I guess not.”

“Why not? I’m an adult. I do know about the birds and the bees?”

Buffy rolled her eyes. “I’m sure you could teach the birds and the bees, but it’s Mom and Dad’s house. I couldn’t do anything like that here.”

Dawn whistle softly. Guess that made her the bad daughter for skinny dipping with Connor.

“Fine by me. If you’re okay with sleeping alone, then so am I.” Dawn unpacked the groceries silently giggling at the look on Buffy’s face.

Buffy groaned frustrated. No Spike for a week. Yeah, there was time during the day to sneak away for a little, a lot of Spike loving, but what he did to her at night was special, and a great sleep aid. Hours and hours of mind-numbing...

“Gosh, get a room, Buffy!” Dawn nearly shouted in her ear. Buffy opened her eyes, blushing furiously.

“What? I wasn’t thinking about that.” She lied.

“Sure, you weren’t.”

“Dawn, I promised Mom and Dad I’d look after you. We’re adults. We can go without sex. Hell, we did for 3 years.”

“Ahh, not exactly. You had Riley.” Dawn shuddered. Riley. Sex. Therapy. Quick.

“Let’s not conjure him up again. He hasn‘t bothered me in days, and I‘d like to keep it like that. Exes tend to put a damper on everything.”

“Like Spike’s ex showing up at Mom’s party last night.”

Buffy tripped over her feet, and looked up at Dawn, surprised. “Who told you about Dru?”

“Connor. I told him about our illustrious guests last night, and he told me the whole sordid story about Spike, Angel, and Dru.”

“I’m not a violent person, but last night.... I would have gladly spent the night in jail, if I could have had one swipe at her. It was almost as if she wanted to hurt Spike some more.”

“I can’t believe Spike ever dated someone like that. I mean, look at the two of you. Hansel and Greta. Goldilocks and one of the bears. You’re all fairytale sweet together. Gosh, it makes me want to heave.”

“I’m so glad my happiness makes you nauseous.”

Dawn giggled. “Better than being disgusted, which is what I felt for the last 2 years with him around.” Him didn’t need a name. He was the one and only mailroom guy.

“You never seemed to fit.“ She said, demonstrating with her fingers.

“No we didn’t. I knew it, but Spike was gone, and sometimes, you settle for what’s available. And when Spike returned, there was no way I could deny what I felt, what I needed.“

“Daily sex.” Dawn joked. Buffy laughed, and shook her head enthusiastically.

“Basically. I think I’m turning into Tara. Just call me Elizabeth Summers Nymphomaniac Extraordinaire.”

“Nymphomaniac Extraordinaire, hmm, well, at least you aren’t going for the mundane.” Smirked Lorne.

“Lorne, honey. We’re so sorry to hear about Lisa. You okay?” Buffy said, throwing her arms around his neck. She winked at Willow and Tara as they came in. Tara mouthed Drama Queen, and Buffy squeezed her eyes closed so she wouldn’t break out laughing.

“Doll, it’s awful, and my two best friends”, he said accusingly. “Don’t have an ounce of sympathy.”

“I’m here for you, Lorne. Put your pain on my shoulders. I’m taller than Buffy. I can handle it.”

Buffy threw a dishtowel at Dawn. “Brat!”

“Thank you, Dawn. I knew once I got here, I’d be taken care of.” Lorne said, accepting Dawn’s hug.


~~~~~~~~~~
“Spike, dude. It’s going to be all right. Wesley and Heller are as low-key as you can get. Buffy’s already met my family, and they didn’t cause her to run for cover. JW and Andrew can’t make it, so there goes the rowdy bunch, and that leaves Nexie and her sister Nev. The twins are sweet.” Connor explained.

“You’re still jonesing for them, aren’t you?” Connor shrugged nonchalantly. Spike glared at him briefly. “What about Dawn?”

“What about her? We’re friends. That’s all. No bodily fluids have been shared between us, other than a couple of kisses.” Not that I wouldn’t like more. Then, why haven’t you made a move? His mind taunted him.

“Friends? Yeah, sure. Keep on believing that if you want to.” Spike mocked.

“If I wanted to be teased about Dawn, I would have ridden with Cordy and Lindsey.”

“Don‘t you own a car?” Spike asked, but Connor shrugged again, dismissing the subject. He had other things to think about, and explaining why he’d not taken his own car out to the Summers’ place wasn’t up for discussion.

He needed to have an excuse to leave when Cordy and Lindsey left. That way temptation would be removed from his grasp. If he didn’t have a way home on his own, he wouldn’t be tempted to stay and hang out with Dawn. The whole situation was ridiculous. He went without sex last night. On a Saturday night, no less. And this wasn’t the first Saturday since he’d met Ms. Dawn Summers that he’d not taken another woman to bed. And to top it off, he had Dawn in his bed, and he didn’t even touch her. Just let her wrap those long arms and legs around him, and cause him to think of anything that would keep him from getting hard and taking advantage of her.

Spike glanced over at the now-frowning Connor, and thought. Yeah, you’re just friends.

~~~~~~~~~~

Wesley looked out the bedroom window, watching as Heller backed her car into the garage. He ran to the CD player, and put on some mood music, then dived for the bed. He placed the pillow over his lap, and waited.

Heller ran up the stairs to the bedroom, stopping long enough to run her fingers through her hair, and unbutton her blouse a bit further. Taking a deep breath, she toed open the door. Wesley was laid out on the bed, one of the red throw pillows on his lap. Heller grinned widely, showing off her orthodontist perfected teeth.

Taking a cue from their favorite movie, “Sex, Lies, and Videotape”, she said. “Is that for me?”

Wesley placed his hands behind his head, and looked up at her, with eyes alight with mischief and a fair amount of lust. “Yes, it is, my dear.”

Heller lifted the pillow, and her brow arched. “Looks good. I think it may need some special Heller attention, though.”

“Really.” Wes said earnestly. “Well, if you think so, then by all means.”

~~~~~~~~~~

“Hi.” Buffy gushed, wrapping her arms around Spike’s neck.

“Hi.“ Spike lifted Buffy off the ground, her legs wrapping around his waist. Connor closed the door as the two lovebirds forgot he was even standing there, and went off in the opposite direction of the crowd gathered in the kitchen.

“Spike,” Buffy giggled, “where are you taking me?”

“I just had a most unpleasant thought, luv.” Spike told her as he nibbled her neck.

“And what was that?” Buffy said, becoming breathless as Spike’s hands began massaging her butt through her shorts.

“Your staying here with Dawn puts a crimp in our nocturnal activities.” Spike took her into her old bedroom, slamming the door with his foot. “I thought I’d start a little early tonight, since it’s a special occasion and all.”

“That’s just an excuse to get in my shorts.” Buffy laughed. Which wasn’t actually a lie, since she could feel Spike’s fingers sliding under her thong. Oh, god, this was wrong. This was her childhood bedroom. She used to play with her... Oh, right there. That’s good. What was I saying? Oh, yeah. Their friends were downstairs, probably discussing what they were doing. Spike laid her down on the bed, unbuttoning her shorts as she continued to discuss the situation with her subconscious.

Spike tapped her thigh, and Buffy lifted her hips, allowing him to pull her shorts and thong off. “Buffy. Condom?”

“Bathroom. First bottom left cabinet. Are we really going to do this?” She said, sitting up on her elbows.

Spike threw one on the dresser, and tore the packet on the other one. “Yes. We were supposed to do this after the airport, remember? I’m the kind of man that always keep his appointments.” Buffy stretched her leg towards the door.

“You’d better lock it or Dawn will bust in and totally embarrass us. There might be pictures.” Buffy giggled uncontrollably.

“Right.”

“Before I met you, I had scruples and morals. Pre-Spike Buffy would never do anything like this.” Hell, Pre-Spike Buffy was a dull girl. Even present day Buffy could admit that now.

Buffy pulled her tank over her head, throwing it on the floor beside Spike’s t-shirt and shorts.

“Aren’t you glad you met me?” Spike said, settling between her parted legs.

“Oh, god, yes.” Buffy said, reaching out and grabbing his arms, pulling him up her body. Her mouth sought his, and they kissed with a slowness that belied the absurdity of what they were doing.
~~~~~~~~~~


“Hey, Connor.” She said. She looked behind him for Spike. “Where’s Spike?”

Connor blushed. “Ah, he took Buffy upstairs.”

Dawn stared, her eyes big and owlish. “He took her upstairs. Oh, my god, that hussy!”

Connor shrugged, and started laughing.

Tara saw the look of incredulity on Dawn’s face, and tapped her on the shoulder. “Keep your mouth open like that and bugs will take up residence.”

“Buffy is upstairs with Spike.”

“So?”

“Buffy, my sister. My oh, so straight-laced sister took a man upstairs to her room.”

“Well, technically, he carried her up the stairs.” Connor added.

“Who carried who, where?” Cordy asked.

“Spike. Buffy. Bedroom.” Dawn answered.

“Well, that’s pretty damn impressive.” Willow had to give it to Spike. When he wanted something, the man went after it. She didn’t know why any of them were surprised. This wasn’t the first time the two of them had snuck off and had sex with their friends waiting patiently for them.

“Punch anyone?” Lorne asked. Tara doubted the Hawaiian punch taste was even recognizable. Lorne seemed to forget the art of measuring when it came to alcohol. They could probably fuel a car on the fumes alone.

“Why not? We might be here awhile.” Cordy remarked.


~~~~~~~~~~
“Spike. You do.. um.. realize this is… just gratituous sex…oh god... just to say we had sex.” Buffy clutched at her bedspread.

Spike tried to laugh, but god, she was trying to burn his cock off. Jesus, how could someone so small be so hot on the inside? “Sex is good, whether it is just for the heck of it or for a greater… purpose.”

Buffy grabbed his ears, stroking them, pulling them, anything to stop the ache in her groin. “A greater purpose? What? Oh, god, right there!” She shrieked, her eyes flying open. Was that a giggle?

Spike latched onto her hard little nipple, tugging it between his teeth. With each thrust into Buffy’s warmth, he tugged on the hardened bud. Buffy felt a shock go through her chest down to her clit. Spike stopped moving, causing Buffy to look at him with a look of death.

”Spike. Don’t stop. I’m almost there.” She whined.

“I know. Why don’t you finish for me?” She could see the strain this little game of his was taking on him. His neck muscles stuck out like thick cords, emphasizing his Adam’s apple, which she couldn’t help but lick.

“Fine!” She gritted out. She rotated her hips slowly, alternating the pressure on his cock. Spike buried his head on her shoulder, biting and nipping at the flesh. Buffy increased the rhythm, her ankles locked behind his back, pushing on his ass, forcing him deeper inside her.

“Shit! Omigod, Buffy. You’re the best. Umm.. you’re the … good god woman ease up. Oh, umm, unh.” Spike rose up, bracing his body on his fist. Buffy gripped Spike’s arms tightly. Her eyes sought his. The feel of her muscles rippling on his cock, the warmth radiating off her skin and in her eyes, sent Spike over the edge. His mouth dropped into a soundless ‘oh’ and he collapsed on Buffy’s chest, his eyes tightly closed, his hips twitching as he spent himself.

Buffy stroked Spike’s back, lazily drawing hearts in the sweat. “That was very nice.”

Spike snorted his agreement. He rolled his head to the side, smiling at the sated look on Buffy’s face.

“Not too shabby for a quickie, huh?”

Was he fishing for a compliment? Good god. A phrase she seemed to be saying a lot when it came to Spike and sex. She’d never been this religious in her entire life.

“What I liked the most about that was the amount of goodness you crammed into.. uh 15 minutes.” Buffy told him, looking over his shoulder at the clock.

“Liked that. I can try to stuff,” and with that he wiggled his hips. Buffy’s fingers clenched. I’ve got a man with a great turn around. She wanted to sing. “Even more into the next time.”

The doorbell rang, bringing Buffy back to reality. “I guess we should head back downstairs.” Spike groaned, but he rolled off of her. He sat on the edge of the bed, looking down at his semi-erect member.

“Ooh, that looks painful, Spike.” Buffy said, kneeling in front of him. “Let me show you want I can stuff into 15 minutes.” No one could say Spike wasn’t one to give a person a fair shake. If she wanted to prove to him she could do it, then he was game.

~~~~~~~~~~

“Is the grill heated?” Lorne asked Connor. “Buffy and Spike are.” He quipped behind Buffy’s back.

Spike merely grinned as Buffy tried to cover her face with her hair.

“What’s that song on the radio?” Dawn asked innocently, passing a tomato to Cordelia. “The one about taking off all your clothes?”

“Oh, I know that one. ‘It’s getting hot in here. So take off all your clothes.’” Tara hugged Buffy from behind, bumping Buffy’s butt with her hips.

“I hate you all.” Buffy moaned, but she was laughing under the veil of hair.

“Thanks for the interesting conversation starter, Spike.” Cordy said, smacking him on the butt. “Hi, Lorne. Where’s Spike? Oh, he’s upstairs having sex with Buffy. Well, we brought cannelloni.”

Spike stuck his tongue out at Cordy, who merely laughed.

“They’re just jealous, sweetie. Just ignore them.” Spike hadn’t expected a crowd to be gathered at the foot of the stairs waiting on them, but there they were, drinks in hand. Spike thought Buffy was going to pass out from shock, but she managed to hold her head up high, even with her knees a bit wobbly.

Buffy looked out from under her hair, and saw them, her friends, his friends, their friends. Well, she supposed it was time to put shy, reserve Buffy to rest, and today seemed like a good day. Tara would be so proud.

“He’s just so delicious. What was I supposed to do? Say no.” Buffy said, taking the burgers out to the grill. Lorne’s mouth dropped opened. Cordy was speechless for once, and Lindsey shrugged as if this type of thing happened to them everyday. Spike could have sworn she sashayed out the door. That’s my woman. He wanted to shout.
~~~~~~~~~~

Wesley and Heller checked each other for any noticeable hickeys before ringing the doorbell.

“Thanks for the pick-me up, hon.” Heller purred in Wesley’s ear.

“You’re welcome.” He said, pinching her lightly on the ass.

Lindsey peered through the side glass panel, smiling as he opened the door. “Well, it’s about time you two showed up. What held you up?” He asked, though the red staining Wesley’s cheek gave him his answer.

“Must be something in the water.“

“What was that?“ Wesley asked, puzzled.

“Never mind. Come on in. Everyone’s in the kitchen.”

~~~~~~~~~~

Dawn stood on the patio, taking in the competition. Twins! What the fuck? Twins! And Connor was eating them up. She seriously contemplated getting a large can of syrup, pouring it on his body, and waiting for a colony of ants to set up shop on his penis. Ignoring her. Well, she wasn’t the ignoring type. He was just mad about last night. Well, she wasn’t going to sleep with him until he admitted how much he really cared for her.

“Dawn, the evil radiating off you is going to kill Joyce‘s begonias.” Willow commented as she came to stand next to the fuming teen.

“Now, tell Mama Willow what’s the problem?”

“Men. One man in particular. Do you see him? He hasn’t left their sides since they walked in. And who in the hell invited twins?” Dawn asked loudly. Spike raised his hands in supplication.

“I didn’t plan this little get-together. Blame them.” He answered, pointing to Tara and Willow.

“Honey, haven’t we taught you anything?” Tara asked in that caring voice that belied her true devilish nature. “Look, he has a penis. All the blood rushes to it, preventing the brain cells from getting any. He’s afraid, obviously. He thinks you’re going to put a noose on his cock, and he can’t handle that. Typical deer-caught-in-the-headlights reaction.”

“Hey! Guy standing right here.” Spike protested. They ignored him.

“Tara’s right, as usual. Act like you don’t care, and by the end of the night, he’ll be putty in your hands. Also, take that damn t-shirt off. Show off that new bikini we bought yesterday.”

“You guys are better than Dr. Ruth.” Dawn said, embracing both women. “Tantalize and evade. Got it! Hey, where’s Xander tonight?”

“Riley. He called before we could get to Xander to tell him about the cookout. He got suckered into an all-night Scooby film fest and Xbox tourney.”

Dawn snorted. “I doubt either one of them is too upset about that. Thank god, he’s out of Buffy’s life. Well, for the most part.”

“Is he still calling her?” Cordy asked. Dawn shook her head.

“No, we ran into him in the grocery store. You should have seen us trying to get through the line before he could catch up with us.” Dawn picked up a pickle, biting into it hard, while Connor looked on. She thought he might have flinched, so she took another bite and turned away from him.


~~~~~~~~~~
Lindsey handed Cordy their glasses, sliding down to sit next to her. She promptly pushed his leg aside, and leaned against his chest. “Do you see Connor over there making a fool of himself?

“That’s your brother. My future brother-in-law.”

“So, do you see a date when the future may change to the present?” Cordy asked.

Lindsey smiled. He knew Cordy knew about the ring. Knew she had been searching the house for it. He had it all planned, and had no intention of giving himself away. For the first time in this relationship, he was going to have the upper hand.

“Spike looks happy. I was a little worried when he left the house.” Cordy commented, sipping the “fruit punch”.

“He did just have sex. He could still be under its spell.”

Lindsey snickered. “You know what I mean, Cor.” But he also understood the spell very well.

“Lindsey, you know Spike. He worries for nothing. There is no way he’s going to lose Buffy because of us. She loves him. Besides, there isn’t any kind of defect in her makeup. She’s perfectly normal, while Dru was perfectly abnormal.”

Lindsey agreed. Buffy was a far cry from Druscilla. Hell, their dachshund was more human than Dru.

“Spike just needs to get used to being able to associate with his friends and date all at the same time.”

“That’s easier said than done with this group.” Lindsey laughed, watching Dawn and Connor’s futile attempts to ignore each other.


~~~~~~~~~~
“Connor Chase, why are you over here, when you should be over there with your girlfriend?” asked Nexie, the lead singer for Spike’s band.

“That’s the truth, because you know there is no way you’ll ever, ever get us in bed with you.” Nev, her twin commented.

“Girls, I’m hurt. I thought we were all friends. I come over here to spend time with you, and this is the treatment I get.” Connor said, trying to catch a glimpse of Dawn without being obvious about it.

“Please, your game is lame. You’re trying to make her jealous. It’s not going to work.” Nev said, walking off.

Connor grabbed Nexie’s arm. “Nex, come on. I really do want to talk to you.” He looked at her with those big brown eyes, and she almost melted until she realized he wasn’t even looking at her or her boobs. He was looking over her shoulder.

“Why don’t you cool off, Connor?” Nexie pushed him backwards into the pool, laughing. Connor broke the surface, cursing like a sailor. It took all of Dawn’s strength not to rush over to him. She held out her glass, and Lorne refilled it. He wants to play games. She’d show him who was the master.

~~~~~~~~~~
“You okay, luv?” Spike asked Buffy. She nodded awkwardly, since his head was resting on her shoulder.

“Well, to be honest, my legs haven’t stopped shaking, but that could be a muscle pull since you decided to test my flexibility.” She turned around, placing her hands on his hips. “You are a terrible, terrible influence.” She said, nibbling on his jaw.

“Keep that up, and they’ll get a real porn show.” Buffy rolled her eyes, pulling Spike to her.

“Good god! Did you not come, Buffy? Is that why you’re still so excited? For shame, Spike. I‘m shocked and a little disappointed in you.” Lorne joked, scooting past a scowling Buffy.

He was saved from the pot scrubber by Heller and Wesley’s appearance in the kitchen. “Your mother has amazing taste, Buffy.”

“Thank you. I’ll tell her you said so. She put a good 2 years into this house. I was in grade school when we moved in, and she was constantly dragging me to antique shops and galleries after school.”

“Heller and I wanted to thank you for the invite.”

“You’re welcome. We should have gotten together before now.” Buffy said, watching Connor pull one of the twins into the pool. Good lord, there was either going to be an orgy or a catfight. Guess it would depend on what Lorne had mixed in his punch.

“That’s what I told Cordy when she called. We haven’t gotten together as a group in awhile. Why’s that Spike?”

“I’ve been busy.”

“Yes, that’s what we heard.” Heller said, grinning at the blush on Spike’s face.
~~~~~~~~~~

“Lorne, I can’t tell which twin wants you, but she’s been looking you over pretty hard.” Dawn told him, watching the twins on the other side of the pool. She was determined to have a good time, Connor Chase be damned.

“Well, I can help you with that.” Cordy said, sitting down next to Lorne’s lounger. “Nexie is the one in the pool with Connor. Nev is talking to Lindsey.”

“The only way to tell them apart is their tattoos.”

Tattoos. Twins with tattoos. That definitely piqued Lorne’s attention or was it something else? Dawn mused.

“Nexie has a tattoo on her inner thigh. It’s a trinity symbol. Nev has a yellow daisy on her ankle. So the choice is yours as to where you want to look.”

Lorne nodded his head, absently, trying to see if he could see the tattoo from where he sat. “Trinity crotch. Daisy ankle. Got it. See ya ladies later.”

Cordy smiled as Lorne strutted, and that’s the only way she could describe it. It was either that or a slow shuffling of his legs over to the grill. “So, my brother’s being an ass. What are you going to do about it?”

“Nothing. I’ve done about all the chasing I’m going to do. It’s time for him to chase me. It’ll be good for his ego in the end.” Cordy raised her glass, grazing it against Dawn’s.

“I like you. You’ve got spunk.” Connor glared at Cordy, motioning with his head to get away from Dawn. She shook her head, and shot him a bird from behind her glass.

“Thanks. You’re pretty cool yourself, Cordy.”

~~~~~~~~~~
Buffy smiled as she looked out at the backyard. Dinner was over, which allowed the conversation to resume. The men had gathered in a small group on one side of the pool, and the women were on the other. Buffy ran her hand down Spike’s back as she walked past, deciding it was high time she joined her sisters.

“Okay, explain to me the dynamics here. Guys on one side, gals on the other.” Buffy asked them.

“Well,” Tara began, “we were discussing tampons and stuff, so Lorne immediately hopped up like someone set fire to his ass. It kinda went from there.”

“You know they are over there wondering what we’re talking about.” Heller stated, staring at Wesley.

“I can tell you. They probably think we are discussing their sexual prowess. Not that I would know about any of that.” Dawn stammered out. I know about Spike’s, but that’s only because Buffy can’t keep the grin off her face every morning.

“I swear men think that’s all we talk about. It’s either sex or our weight. Hello, I like sports.” Nev said.

“I like sports too, but tell that to our boyfriend. He doesn’t like to watch football with us. He thinks we’re amateurs.” Willow said, kissing Tara on the lips. Buffy watched Spike’s friends like a hawk, trying to see which one would show their true colors. None seemed phased by the display of affection.

“Have you guys been to My Sister’s Place? It’s in Santa Monica. Great bar. I know you two are committed, but you should come visit one night. I bartend.” Nev told them excitedly.

“We read about it in the Southern Voice, but we’ve been so busy we haven’t gotten over there yet.” Tara told her.

Buffy glanced over her shoulder and found Spike watching her. She winked at him, and gave serious thought to sneaking away so they could use that other condom. Down girl, you have company. Must play the perfect hostess. Crap! Crap! Crap!
~~~~~~~~~~

Spike let his eyes roam up Buffy’s legs to her cute little butt to the back he loved to kiss at night to the green eyes staring at him.

“Does anyone else here start to worry when there are that many women congregated in one area?” Wesley asked.

“I do. Look at them. You know they are over there discussing us. Critiquing us, and all that crap.” Connor grumbled into his beer. “We’re not together. She shouldn’t be upset because I was talking to some other woman.”

The other men gave Connor looks ranging from pity to amusement.

“Anyway, ignoring the youngin here. He’s in denial. Let’s leave him there.” Lorne suggested, stepping around Connor. “You three are adults. You understand women far better than this one.” Lorne waved coyly to Nexie or was it Nev? I could look at her ankle, but a little higher would be better.

“I understand women, but Dawn is a... girl. She’s only 18.”

Lindsey rolled his eyes. “No wonder Maria has given up on you. Dawn isn’t a child. She’s a woman. We know she’s definitely more mature than you are.”

“Whose side are you on, dear brother-in-law to be?” Connor asked grumpily.

“Cordy’s.” Good answer. Good answer.

“He’s right, Connor.” Spike said, pulling out his cigarettes. He was trying to quit for Buffy, but he was drinking, and social smoking was always acceptable. “You want to think of Dawn as a kid, go ahead, but it’s a huge mistake.”

“Dawn isn’t going to come running after you, Connor. You’re going to have to give a little if you want all of her. I taught her that.” Lorne said proudly.

“Can we get off the Dawn subject? Let’s get on the subject of men who are in committed relationships, but haven’t asked their girlfriends to become their wives yet?”

Ouch! Spike thought, grimacing along with Wesley and Lindsey. Kid knew when to duck and when to jab. Lorne looked a little green in the face.

“At least, we acknowledge we’re pussy-whipped.” Wes quipped back, earning a grin from Spike.

Lorne cleared his throat. “Gentlemen, raise your glasses. Here’s to the ladies, obviously the stronger and more cunning sex. May we forever be in their thrall.”

“Here! Here!”


~~~~~~~~~~
When the shit hit the fan, it really hit the fan in Buffy’s opinion. Be it from too much of Lorne’s loco punch or sexual frustration, Buffy didn’t really know, but Dawn and Connor combusted. It had all started off innocently enough. Dawn was talking to Tara and Nev about her last boyfriend, Fred Gunn.

”I guess we’d been dating about 6 months by this time, and we both knew it wasn’t going any further. Well, he’d heard from some friend of his a sure fire way to get me to break up with him was to fart around me.”

Nev giggled, covering her mouth with her hand. “Oh, my god, that’s awful.”

“Tell me about it. He didn’t want it to be known around school that he’d dumped me. Hell, people would think he’d lost his mind, especially with prom just around the corner.” Dawn said, laughing because she knew what came next.

“Because breaking up with Dawn Summers is like the worst thing that could happen to some pimply-faced 17 year old.” Connor commented dryly from behind Dawn.

Oh, boy. Tara thought, taking a step back. There was going to be bloodshed, and she wanted a front-row seat for it. Nev recognized the danger in standing too close and went to find Nexie.

“At least, he had the balls to act on what he wanted.” Dawn spat back.

Spike pulled Buffy into his lap, when it appeared she was going to interfere. Lorne sat down next to them. Buffy smacked him on the arm, when she saw him rub his hands together.

“Oh, please, doll. This has been a long time in coming. They’ve both been playing the game too long. You knew someone was going to break.”

Willow handed out beer and punch, and took a seat behind Dawn. Cordy merely shrugged and hauled Lindsey to the side, so they wouldn’t miss a barb. Eventually, a ring formed around the two brunette combatants.


~~~~~~~~~~
“I like that. See how passionate she is. She’s not going to let Connor pull his usual shit.” Heller commented, leaning back into Wesley’s arms.

“Why does Connor have to be the one to give in?” Wesley commented, earning a glare not only from Heller, but from the twins as well.

“Always the lawyer, aren’t you?” Heller said, craning her neck to peck him on the cheek.


~~~~~~~~~~
“What the hell is that supposed to mean? Oh, you mean because I’m not following you around like a little lap dog, then I’m less than a man. Then, so be it. I’m not some little lovesick puppy!”

“No, you’re just so goddamn scared of falling for someone, you’d rather keep me at arms’ length. It took dancing all night before you’d let me get close.”

“Hah, that’s a crock. Who put the moves on me with the skinny dipping?”

“Skinny dipping? Where? Here? Ooh, I’m so telling Mom and Dad.” Buffy singsonged.


~~~~~~~~~~
“Willow, when they do finally sleep together, I hope the bed is still standing.” Tara whispered salaciously in her ear. The alcohol, the heat, and Willow was making Tara horny as a toad.

“Do you think Riley’s still at Xander’s?” Willow asked, feeling the same pull in the pit of her stomach for her lovers.

~~~~~~~~~~

“I wish we had a camera. These are the types of moments a sister looks forward to.” Cordy held the tub of melted vanilla ice cream in her lap, sharing a spoon with Lindsey.

“Forget the camera. I wish we had a recorder.” Lindsey put her arm around Cordy’s waist. “I want him to relive this night over and over again. The night he lost the battle. The battle we’ve all lost to our women.”

“Ah, that’s so sweet, Lindsey.” Cordy sighed, offering him the spoon.

~~~~~~~~~~

“I wasn’t trying to seduce you. I was trying to show you I’m not a kid. I’m a woman. You should remember that, you big oaf!

“Oaf. I know damn well you’re a woman. Hell, you were only pressed up against me all night!”


~~~~~~~~~~
“See what we have here is two people so used to getting what they want with little or no effort, they’re finding it difficult to find a middle ground.” Lorne explained to Buffy and Spike. “I see it all the time in other people’s relationships. Not my own, of course.”

“Maybe, that’s why Lisa dumped your ass, mate.” Spike commented. Lorne spun around, shocked.

“Buffy, you told him.”

“I was under the influence. Orgasmic pleasure and all that.”

~~~~~~~~~~

“Nex, do you think Tara and Willow would ever bring another woman into their relationship? I think Tara’s a nice little morsel.”

“Nev, if they’d wanted to make a move on you, they would have. They have what they want. A man. A dick. Move on.” Nexie pulled her sister into a bear hug, trying to take away the sting of her statement.

~~~~~~~~~~

“You didn’t even try to kiss me or feel me up. How the hell am I supposed to know anything?” Dawn shouted pushing past Connor.

“I’m trying to be your friend.”

“Bullshit! You don’t want to fall for me. Well, guess what? It’s too late. You and I belong together. That’s right! I said it. We belong together.”


~~~~~~~~~~
”Wesley, I’m getting ready to break the house rules, but it’s important. I need your opinion.”

“What is it, luv?”

“Angel wants me to handle his divorce.”

Wesley nearly choked on his drink. “You’re the best divorce attorney I know. Can’t say I don’t understand why he wouldn’t want to get rid of that horrid woman.”

“You wouldn’t be upset if I took the retainer.”

“Heller, I love you. Not only would this make Dru unhappy, we’d be taking Angel’s money to boot.”
~~~~~~~~~~

“I… I’m not in love with you.” All conversation stopped at the declaration uttered from Connor’s lips. His open, vulnerable face reminded Cordy of when they were kids. When their father had died, he’d been so scared and hurt, but determined to take on the mantle of “man of the house”. Now, he looked just as lost. Her heart ached for him, but she knew Dawn would take care of him.

“Fine. I’m not in love with you either, but I know I’ve never felt this way about anybody else. You’re my equal. Don’t you get that?” Dawn took a tentative step in his direction. They all waited with bated breath to see what was going to happen. Would Connor step toward his future or keep on running?

“Go on, boy. It doesn’t hurt.” Spike said softly, sighing when Buffy kissed his forehead.

Connor looked into the blue eyes that had mesmerized him since he first gazed upon them. She was smiling and smirking, like she knew he’d see her way eventually.

“I like your bikini.” Connor whispered, stepping into Dawn’s arms.

“Thanks, I bought it for you.”

~~~~~~~~~~
Buffy collapsed into Spike’s arms as soon as the door closed on Tara, Lorne, and Willow. “Don’t drop yet, luv.”

“I’m so tired.” Buffy said, turning around and kissing Spike softly on the lips.

“How tired? Too, too tired?” Spike nibbled at her bottom lip.

“Am I that good in bed or are you that insatiable?”

Spike stepped back, looking Buffy over. Her hair was down, falling in waves over her shoulders. Her tank gently cupped her tiny firm breasts, and he could see her body wasn’t as tired as she thought. Her nipples were hardening under his steady gaze. Her shorts rode low on her tiny hips, and his loins remembered their quickie, and how those same hips felt under his.

“Both.”

ch. 13

The night clerk looked at them, a knowing smile on his face. He thinks I’m a prostitute. Buffy mused, She couldn’t blame him for thinking that. Her club clothes left very little to the imagination. She glanced shyly at her lover. She should create a name for him, so when this night was over she didn’t have to call him her amazing one-night stand. No name fit. He didn’t fit a mold. He wasn’t a Randy or Jack. He was amazing, ethereal…. Beautiful.

She let her eyes roam freely over his back, tight and taut under the black t-shirt. He had a swimmer’s body, all broad shoulders and tiny waist. Her hands itched to run her fingers over his bare ass, to fill the strength as he pushed his cock inside her, deeper and deeper. He turned suddenly, and her mouth went dry. He had an almost primal look on his face. Did it match hers in its intensity? Yes, it did. They needed to get to the room, now.

Put one foot in front of the other, man. That’s it. Step. Step. Closer. Closer. Soon. Not soon enough. Spike groused. He could hear her breathing getting deeper and stronger. He could feel the electricity between them, almost a visible pulse of energy that could be tapped into and used to light up a city block. He wanted to pull her into the stairway, pin her to the wall again. Have her legs wrapped around his waist. Feel the heat of her core as she took him in. He almost stumbled over that particular memory.

She was looking at him. Her green eyes darkening into emerald pools. So expressive. So beautiful.

“This is it.” She said, her voice shaky.

Spike’s hand shook slightly as he put the key into the lock. He pushed the door opened, allowing her to walk inside ahead of him. He threw the bag from CVS on the table. They had picked up a few things on the way from the diner. Water. Cookies. Chips. Condoms. All the things they would need to last the night.

Buffy watched him, staring at the box of condoms, as if he were having second thoughts about having them. They had taken a chance earlier, but the need to be together, flesh to flesh, had pushed all reasonable thoughts of STDs and pregnancy out the door. Along with my morals. Buffy thought.

“That was bloody stupid earlier.” He commented, reading her thoughts.

Buffy laughed lightly. “Yeah, it was. But necessary, wasn’t it.” She wasn’t asking. She knew. She understood. An overwhelming desire to know what it felt like to be burnt by the sun from the inside, out. Had to know that one perfect moment.

Spike nodded. He threw his keys on the table, the sound loud. He looked up, his blue eyes bright and clear. One thought went through his mind. Gotta get those lips.

Buffy smiled as his arms went around her neck, pulling her willing, supplicant body into his. She titled her head, gasping at the heat coming off his body. Her mouth opened, her tongue darting out to slide languidly across his. Spike moaned and ran his hands down her back, tugging at the straps. Their bodies were the only things keeping the flimsy piece of material on her. He could feel her nipples, hard and warm, pressing deliciously into his chest. Buffy grasped his t-shirt, tugging it out of his jeans, sighing when she felt the smooth skin underneath. Fingers, light as feathers, tickled his back, inching higher and higher till it became necessary for him to release his hold on her waist, and hold his arms up. Spike threw the t-shirt across the room, his eyes taking in Buffy’s heaving chest. The shirt she wore, fell to the floor. Her breasts fascinated him, so tiny and so perfect. He bent, his mouth opening and taking the rounded flesh into his mouth completely. Buffy shuddered and her eyes closed briefly. He was on his knees, worshipping her, and she wanted to cry from the intense pleasure and pain he was inflicting on her sensitive flesh. They would be sore in the morning. Thank god, she thought. Just when she thought she might have to forcibly pull him away from her nipple, he moved to the other breast, engulfing it whole in his mouth.

“Oh, god.” She moaned. He moaned too, but the sound was muffled. His hands slid up her legs, massaging the toned flesh, dipping tantalizing inside the hastily repaired panties, ripping them apart.

What the hell did I even bother? Should have dumped them in the bathroom at the restaurant.

Spike’s head swam with the taste of her skin, vanilla and something else. His cologne. He realized belatedly. It was them, her and him, together. Spike rolled his tongue around, batting the heated flesh, hearing Buffy purr in response. He felt her fingers on his face, lightly tracing his cheekbones and ears, till they dove painfully into his hair.

“Need you. Need you. Oh.. need you.” She moaned, and Spike looked up. She stared at him, and gasped as his fingers slid between her outer lips and into her moist heat. Buffy bent her head, her lips crushing his, sucking on his bottom lip painfully. Spike cupped her ass, holding her steady as he stroked her with long, sure thrusts. Her knees buckled, and she fell onto the bed. Her knees bent and spread, allowing him greater access to her core.

“Oh, god.” She grunted. Her hands worked frantically at his jeans, finally succeeding in ripping the zipper down. Her fingers enclosed his thickened member, and this time he gasped. She stared into his eyes, as they both continued in rhythm with the other, rushing to lose control.

“Pants. Off. Now.” Buffy groaned.

Buffy shimmed out of her skirt, throwing it haphazardly aside. Spike nearly tripped as he hurried to push the offending denim off his body. He gave up, shuffling over to the table, ripping the box apart in his haste to get one condom. Buffy giggled at the sight, but when she caught sight of his erect penis touching his belly button, she lost the ability to think or speak. She could only stare. This was the first time she’d seen him, completely naked. And boy, she liked what she saw.

Spike saw her eyes widened, and he strutted, after toeing his shoes and jeans off, proudly over to the bed, crawling as she scooted back. He grinned, and she grinned back, smiling with teeth so straight and white, he felt blinded by it.

“What’s so funny?” She asked, stroking the sides of his face.

“You. Staring. Haven’t you ever seen a naked man before?”

Buffy rolled her eyes at him. “Yes, it’s just... you.” She said, pushing a stray curl off his forehead. “You’re just amazing. I feel ugly around you.”

Spike shifted till he was comfortably wedged between her legs, his cock between their bodies, pulsing and throbbing. He leaned down, kissing her softly, but steadily on the lips. “You could wear a burlap sack,and still be the most beautiful woman in the world.”

His hand slid along her thigh, sliding between their bodies at the dip between hip and belly. His eyes never left hers, as he opened the way to her interior, and slid inside in one, long, sweet thrust. Buffy clutched at his arms, squeezing the biceps as he slowed withdrew from her body, only to come back justas slowly. Buffy’s toes clenched and grasped absently at the back of his thigh, wanting to push him to go faster, but enjoying the agonizing slowness he implored. Her fingers continued their perusal of his face, touching and tracing the planes. There was something to be said for taking it slow, Buffy mused, her back bowing in time with each thrust.

Oh, god. This is going to be a big one. She thought as her legs began to shake, her muscles protesting wildly. Spike thought she was going to rip his ears off, she was holding them so tightly. He surged forward, his feet pushing hard on the bed, giving him leverage. Buffy screamed loud and long, her hands flying to her side, clutching at the spread, pulling it to her, around him. Spike grasped her hand in his, pulling it above her head. She held it tightly as he thrust wildly, three times, maybe four, finally collapsing onto the pillow beside her head.

~~~~~~
Spike pulled the bike around back, parking it next to Buffy’s Liberty. He hoped she wasn’t busy. He just needed to see her. He wasn’t feeling his work at home. His editor was expecting an outline for the new book by Friday, and Spike hadn’t started working on it yet. He figured since he’d used Buffy as his muse to write the first one, might as well use her for this one.

Last year, she was just a memory, a whisper of a dream. Now, she blood and flesh, and waiting on the other side of that door. Stop your poetic gibberish and go in and get her. His cocky mind told him.

Spike whistled the melody to Ghost’s latest song as he rounded the corner. He did a double take as he neared the front door. Fear made him rush to it, seeing Buffy laid out on the counter, her head resting on her arms. He ran inside, and came up short when she snored.

“She’s asleep, mate. No worries here.” Spike ran his hand over her tousled hair, chuckling to himself. Bad Spike. Bad. Keeping her up to the wee hours of the morning, when she’d been working so hard on Lindsey’s project. Not that she’d complained at the time, but when the alarm went off… well, that was a different story. She’d promptly got up at 8, grumbling about British men and their unquenchable appetites.

Spike flipped through her appointment book. Good, she didn’t have any appointments until after lunch. Just enough time to let her recharge. Spike locked the door, putting the closed sign up. Scooping Buffy up in his arms, he carried her to the back. She was making little smacking sounds, her lips parted slightly. He pressed his lips to her forehead, laying her gently down on the sofa. She looked so much like Sleeping Beauty he kissed her again. Maybe, she’d turn him into a prince. He slid in behind her, wrapping her up in his arms. He closed his eyes, enjoying the opportunity to listen to her breath.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Philip Barton peered into the glass door, checking to see if the blonde man would return from the back. He didn’t. Well, I guess that’s the boyfriend. He mused, writing the info down in his notebook. Elizabeth Summers was clean, not a bounced check or parking ticket to her name. She had a nice little business. Her family was a typical upper class family. Nothing out of the ordinary. She dumped some schmoe a month ago, and was presently screwing some writer. He had nothing. Nothing to show for that $5000 retainer.

It’s all about the Benjamins. Had to remember that, old boy. Think. Everybody’s got some skeleton in their closet. Okay, family and friends wouldn‘t squeal, but an ex would always provide the real, juicy dirt on someone. Next stop, the GE building and one Riley Finn.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~
“Elliot Sanders, VP of Marketing. You go here.” Riley said, pitching the bulky envelop in the tray. “Yes, look at me, Buffy. I’m working in a fucking mailroom for you. I’m wearing a freaking shirt and tie for you, and what are you doing? Screwing some platinum blonde into the ground. Yep, my life can’t suck too much more.”

“Well, it could, if my dad was standing here listening to you.” A feminine voice drawled from the other side of the stacks.

Riley’s mouth dropped open, and he swallowed loudly. Damn, Buffy Summers. Now, he was going to lose his job. Which wouldn’t be so bad, if he didn’t need it to impress Buffy.

“Hello, I didn’t realize anyone was in here with me.” Riley rounded the corner and came up short. Sitting on the counter in a skirt so short as to be illegal was a blonde sucking a blowpop. The male-fantasy was not loss on him. And they said he was dumb!

“Hi.” He said, awkwardly throwing his hand in the air.

“Yeah, right. So, you’re the new guy. Not bad.” She said, studying him intently, almost as if she were deciding which pair of Manolo Blahniks to buy. She hopped down, pulling fruitlessly at the small piece of fabric. The blonde looked up, not surprised to see Riley’s eyes on her legs.

“Look, my dad’s VP of this place, so don’t get attached to me. Just came down to see where I’ll be spending my days until school starts. Oh, I’m Harmony. Just call me Harm, geek boy, and we’ll get along just fine.”

Riley stuck his hand out, and she shook it, giving him a look that said ‘you’re a dork, but you have potential’.

Harmony flung her braid over her shoulder and strode out the door. Riley stood there for a minute, trying to remember his own name and position.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Dawn looked at the apron, wondering again at the sanity of trying to cook Connor a homemade meal. And why was she trying to be Betty Crocker, when she wanted to be Betty Boop? Because you really, really like him. Simple as that, Summers.

“Okay, now. First things, first. We cut the tomatoes.” Maria handed Dawn a large cutting knife and stood back and watched as she cut the tomato.

It’s just a tomato, Dawnie. This isn’t anything you haven’t done hundreds of times. Just hold it steady and press down hard. Okay, hold it, and do it again. Good. Dawn turned to see what Maria thought, and found herself alone in the kitchen with Lindsey. Well, that’s just great. I could have put this thing in the food processor and been done with it. He’s a hottie. He’s a hottie. Just keep telling yourself that and you’ll be fine. If you can’t get to his heart through his cock, then go for the stomach.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
“I did it mmmmmmmyyyyyy way!” Maria sang, dancing around the dining room with her favorite broom. “That Frankie Sinatra! Bellisimo. Ah, he was a catch! Back in my day, we used to swoon over him. That voice. Those eyes. Eh. It was a beautiful time. Very romantic.” Maria was in a fine mood today. Her daughter was getting engaged, finally taking herself off the shelf, so to speak. Maria crossed herself, placing her palms together in a silent prayer of thanks.



Lindsey chuckled, and tried to keep his mind on the marinara sauce. Tonight was the night. Why are you nervous? You love her. She loves you. You’ve been together for 5 years, longer than some marriages. Stop your worrying.

“Lindsey, the sauce isn’t going to cook itself.” Maria chided. “You have to turn the stove on.” Maria took one look at him, and decided a little motherly intervention was in order.

“Dawn, when you finish with that tomato, come over here and stir the gravy.” Maria pulled Lindsey through the double doors and sat him down at the nearest table.

Dawn looked in the pot, confused. Gravy. This looks like spaghetti sauce to me. “What gravy?”

“That’s what we Italians call sauce.” Connor said admiring Dawn’s attire. “Nice apron.”

“Don’t get used to it.” She said, smiling as Connor leaned in to give her a kiss.

“Not even when we’re alone.”

“Maybe, then, and only then.” Dawn’s eyes softened as she gazed into his.


~~~~~~~~~~~~
“So, do you have everything ready?”

“Just waiting for Buffy to call and let me know when the pictures will be ready.” Lindsey groaned, seeing the tears well up in Maria’s eyes.

“Maria, please. No crying. She’ll know something is up.” Maria waved a checkered napkin in his face.

“My only daughter is going to get married. I’m allowed to be emotional.” She huffed.

“Maria, the wedding isn’t today. All I’m doing is asking her.” To tell the truth, he cried in the shower that morning. He wanted to be a man’s man, but this was his heart. This proposal had to come off right. It had to blow her way, like she blew him away when he first met her.

“All you’re doing is making it official. You love my Cordelia, and she loves you very much.” She held his cheeks in her hand. “You are soulmates. Love like that only comes around once in a lifetime, twice if you’re extremely lucky. I saw it in her eyes the moment she said your name, you would be the one to complete her.” Marie sniffed, holding the memory of her dear husband close to her heart.

“Thank you, Maria. Thank you for Cordelia.” Lindsey hugged her, the two of them swaying to the closing strands of the song.


~~~~~~~~~~~
Buffy awoke with a start, pushing herself up into a sitting position and flinging an unsuspecting Spike to the floor. Her eyes widened and she caught herself laughing before she could stop it.
“For someone who professes to love me, you pack a mean elbow.” Spike said, rubbing his stomach.

“Spike, I’m so sorry. I didn’t realize you were there.” Buffy cocked her head. “What are you doing here anyway?”

“Well...” Spike began sheepishly. “I was coming to see what you were up to, and saw you sleeping, and I felt so guilty, and to get out of doing my outline.” He admitted.

Buffy shook her head. Procrastinating, procrastinating. “Spike, you’ve got to get that started. Friday is right around the corner.” Buffy slid off the sofa, climbing onto his prone body. Well, not so prone in certain areas.

“I know, but you’re my inspiration.” He said sweetly. His blue eyes were dancing and mischievous.

“Are you going to start spouting poetry? That would be too romantic for the floor of my studio.” She said, resting her head in the crook of his neck. She inhaled deeply, and snuggled closer into his embrace.

Spike cupped the back of Buffy’s neck, enjoying the feel of Buffy’s breath and lips on his skin. Moments like these were the best part of their relationship.

“Thank you for bringing me here. It would have been terribly embarrassing to be caught drooling on the counter.” They laughed and felt the rumbles deep in their stomachs.

“Had to make sure my girl was okay. Wouldn’t want some nasty to get a hold of you.”

“Aren’t you the gentleman?”

“Yes, I am.” Spike wiggled his brows.

Nice lips, Buffy thought, propping herself up with one arm. She traced his lips and bent down to kiss his open mouth. Spike’s arms wrapped tightly around her waist and inched up her back, easing her t-shirt up. Buffy laughed and pushed his hands down.

“Down, Tiger. I’ve got to finish Lindsey’s pictures first, and then I’ve got a set of triplets coming in for their birthday pics.”

“In their birthday suits?” Spike asked hopefully, knowing he was risking bodily injury for the joke.

“No,” Buffy said, rubbing her hips into the bulge pressed deliciously against her butt. “But if you’re really good and help me, I may let you take some pics of me in my birthday suit.”

“Just call me Eastman, Ms. Kodak.”


~~~~~~~~
Connor toyed with the strings on Dawn’s apron. Dawn swatted at him, worrying Maria was going to come back in, and catch them fooling around.

“Dawn, are you ever going to sleep with me?”

The spoon dropped back with a splash into the marinara. Dawn spun around, her face bright red with embarrassment.

“Shut up! What are you doing? Your mother will hear us.”

“So. She knows I have sex.”

Okay, now, is that the kind of thing you say to your new girlfriend? No, that isn’t, dummy! Dawn blew her breath out slowly. Time to set some boundaries. “I don’t care if you’ve had sex. Be a virgin with me. Let me live in Denialville. I don’t want to imagine that someone else has done the things to you I want to do. Do I make myself clear?”

Do the things I want to do to you. That was a low blow. Pun entirely intended. Connor took in the tilted hip, and the arms crossed under her full breasts and wondered why they were waiting.

“May I ask a question?” At Dawn’s nod, he smiled. Damn girl was going to turn his hair gray. “When do you think we might move to the next step in this relationship? Not pressuring you. Just asking.”

Dawn turned the fire down, stirring the red tomato sauce. She wiped her hands on the apron before approaching Connor. He swallowed at the hazy look in her eyes. Eyes that were once bright, cerulean blue were darker. He felt the weight of her feminine wiles pressing on him, and he thanked the lord for making women. Especially this one. Dawn stopped a few inches in front of him, placing her hands on either side of his body. She leaned in, getting as close as possible with clothes on.

“When I feel that there isn’t any place else for us to go.” She breathed hotly on his cheek. “When I know that I might die, if I don’t feel you inside me. When I decide that you will die, if you aren’t with me.” She kissed him hard on the lips, her mouth opening and allowing his tongue entrance. She pulled back, her lips red and full.

Connor gulped. Where had his Dawnie gone to? Who was this woman? His blood sang. Hell, his blood wanted to put up a billboard and let her know that he was there. He would die if he wasn’t with her, and soon.

“Now, stir the sauce while I finish these tomatoes.”


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Riley unbuttoned his collar and loosened the tie. God, he hated the blasted thing. How could people go to work on a daily basis and wear these contraptions? He sat outside the building, eating his sandwich. He pulled the bread apart, and sighed. Buffy used to make him sandwiches. She’d fixed them before she left for the studio, and he’d have something to snack on while he waited at casting calls or after a full day of surfing. He missed her and hated her all at the same time. His plan should have worked. He had a job. He had a benefit plan. But no Buffy. No sex. No nothing. It wasn’t fair. He’d been the perfect boyfriend.

“Umm, excuse me. Are you Riley Finn?”

Riley squinted into the sun, until Barton moved to block its rays.

“Yeah, who wants to know?”

“Philip Barton. I’m doing an interview for an article on The Photo Shop. It’s owned by…”

“Buffy Summers.” Riley told him, a hint of bitterness still on his tongue.

Barton smiled. Bingo. One jilted lover ready to go. “Do you know her? I’m trying to compile a dossier on her. Would you be willing to answer some questions? Her neighbors told me you were her boyfriend.” Add a little salt to the wound.

That bitch! What was she too ashamed to tell people how she cheated on him with her famous author boyfriend?

Now, a rational man with an ounce of good sense would see through the thin story Barton was spinning, but not our boy. Nope. He was so pissed at Buffy. He couldn’t see when he was being played. And one thing, Philip Barton could do was play a simple-minded person like a violin.

“Is that what they told you? Hah! Little Ms. Summers has someone else keeping her warm these days. She threw me out without a second glance. Took up with that jerk. So what if he wrote a book! I could write a book if I put my mind to it!”

Barton’s brow rose at that statement, and he refrained from laughing in the guy’s face. Yeah, and I’m going to try out for the LA Ballet company.

“That’s awful. Did you try to get her back?”

“I tried. That’s why I’m working here. She wanted something different, she said. Someone different. I gave her time to get over this thing for him, but all that’s done is give them more time to screw each other silly.” Riley clenched his fist, forgetting the sandwich he held in his hands.

“So, this boyfriend, you say he’s a writer. Do you know his name?” The question penetrated the fog around Riley’s brain, allowing much needed brain cells a chance to rejuvenate.

“Why do you want to know? I thought this was about Buffy? And you didn’t tell me what you were working on?”

Philip gave him a shocked look. “Didn’t I? We’re doing a story on the Photo Shop for our publication. We just like to get all the information we can on the owners. Just personal info and tidbits to fill in the blanks.

“Oh, if you don’t feel comfortable speaking with me, we can end this now.” Barton rose, extending his hand. Riley shook it, and smiled.

“I don’t mean to be rude, but I don’t think Buffy would like me giving out that kind of information.”

“You’re absolutely right. You should probably get her permission before speaking to me. I won’t even mention all that stuff you told me about her and that writer.” Barton knew that would ensure Riley’s silence for the time being. If he really wanted to get the girl back, bashing her in a news article was the worst way to go about it. He would keep quite. Of that he was sure.

“Thanks. You’d do better asking her.” Riley said timidly.

“Thanks, Mr. Finn. You have a good day.” Barton whistled as he walked away.


~~~~~~~~~~~
“You could have told me they were only 4.” Spike grumbled as they unloaded the pictures outside Cordy and Lindsey‘s house.

“Yeah, but then it wouldn‘t have been as much fun.” Buffy smirked.

Buffy giggled as she thought of Spike‘s reaction when he met the triplets, Jason, Justin, and Julianna. Four-year-old terrors, who‘d taken an immediate liking to the man with the yellow hair and blue eyes. Little Julianna immediately attached herself to Spike‘s leg and looked up at him with big, adoring eyes.

“They wore me out, and I was only with them for a few hours.” He said as he passed Buffy with the final load of pictures.

“Well, at least someone can wear you out. I haven‘t figured out how to do that yet.” Spike wiggled his brows, leaning down for a quick kiss.

“Don‘t let me stop you from trying, luv.”

Buffy unlocked the door, shaking her head at Spike-plotting. “What time is Lindsey coming home?”

“11 or 11:30. Depends on how many folks were at the restaurant tonight. He won’t leave Maria to clean the place, even if this is the second most important day of his life. That’s just Lindsey.” Spike shrugged. He laid the poster-size photos in the entryway. Buffy put the bag of rose petals in the kitchen.

“How many roses are in this bag?” Buffy asked, holding the bag up.

“Probably 5 dozen. That’s how long they’ve been together.”

Buffy smiled as Spike spread the photos out, following Lindsey’s instructions on where to place them.

5 years. Wow! And they are getting married. Spike and I have been together a month, but it seems more like 3 years. God, how could I have done that to Riley? He never had a chance. It was Spike then and now.

“Whatcha thinking, Blondie?” Spike asked as he wrapped his arms around Buffy’s waist. They were in Cordy and Lindsey’s bedroom, having placed the last picture on the door.

Buffy turned in his arms and kissed him on the cheek. “I love my job. Thank you.”

“Okay, I’ll bite.” Spike said a little confused.

“And you do.” She snickered. “After that night with you, I went to the cliffs. I spent hours up there, thinking about you, thinking about what you said to me. ‘Life is what you make of it. Good, bad, it doesn’t matter. As long as you take control of it, and make it your own, who’s to say it wasn’t worthy.’ She recited. “It was my motto. I kept hearing it in my head as the days went by. When I finally told Dad I was changing my major, you were there with me.”

Spike brushed her temple with his lips. “Glad to hear it, Pet. You were with me every mile of my journey too.”

“I wouldn’t have had the strength to become a photographer if it wasn’t for you. I love what I do. I love being able to capture in a frame, a moment out of a lifetime. It’s very humbling. I feel blessed to be a part of their history.”

“I didn’t do anything except be your sounding board. It was always inside of you.” He tapped his finger lightly on her chest. “I told you, Buff. You’re the strongest person I know.”

Buffy grabbed his finger, nipping it lightly. “I have a suggestion.” She said, kissing Spike’s chin. “Let’s finish this up, then hit Blockbuster and Ben and Jerry’s. I feel like snuggling with my man, tonight.”

“I second your suggestion.“ Spike took Buffy’s hand. “You did a terrific job on those photos. Cordy’s going to cry and laugh all at the same time.”

Spike ran his hand over the last one, showing Cordy and Lindsey sleeping in the park. Buffy took it. Just two weeks ago, they’d gathered at the small park around the corner from Spike’s house, and played in the sand. Buffy pulled out her camera and snapped photos while Lindsey and Cordy cuddled on the blanket. One minute they were awake and joking with Spike, and in the next they were sound asleep.

“She’s getting engaged, not leaving the state.”

“I know that, but she’s been mine forever. I only share her with Lindsey. Now, he’s taking full ownership of her.” Spike pouted.

“She loves you.”

“I love her, too.”

“I know you do.” Buffy stated quietly. She should be jealous, but she wasn’t. She was just as possessive of her friends. Tara and Willow were her sisters, almost as much as Dawn. And Lorne was their brother, albeit, an older, flashy, wise-cracking, woman chasing, brother. At least, he had good fashion sense, and made a mean Fruit punch.


~~~~~~~~~~~~
Cordy rolled her neck, trying to work the kinks out. Tomorrow is my birthday. Tomorrow is my birthday. I don’t have to work or anything. I get to be pampered all day by my Mama and my sweetie. Home. Shower. Snuggle. In that order, and immediately.

Lindsey saw the lights flash through the darkened house, signaling Cordy’s arrival home. He lit the candles, tiptoeing over the rose petals strewn from the front door to the bedroom.

Cordy walked in the front door, and directly into her past with Lindsey. The candlelight cast faint shadows on the pictures placed at different intervals from the kitchen to their bedroom. She recognized it for what it was, a photo diary of their relationship. A journey from the moment she realized she loved him, all the way through the past few weeks. It was them, growing older together. Growing up together was more like it. Her eyes swam with tears. She got to the door of their bedroom and pushed it open. Lindsey was there, on bent knee. His face wet with tears.

Cordy smiled, and she reached out to touch his face, her hand shaking.

“Hi, honey.”

“Hi, babe. I see you’ve been busy.” Cordy dropped to her knees, looking into the eyes of her future.

“Had some help.” Lindsey said shyly. “I wanted tonight to be special.”

“You’re here. I’m here. That’s all we need.” Cordy grasped his head, pulling it to hers.

“I love you, Cordelia Ana Chase. You are my everything. My life is so much richer for having you in it. I want you to be my wife, my lover, my friend, the mother to our children. Will you marry me?” Lindsey pulled the velvet box out of his pocket, and opened it.

Cordy sniffled, and wiped the tears from her eyes. “Yes. Yes. Yes.” She said, throwing her arms around Lindsey’s neck. They held each other tightly, crying and laughing all at the same time.

“I thought you were never going to ask me.” Cordy joked, as she pulled back. Lindsey took her left hand in his, and slid the 2-carat diamond on her finger.

“I would have asked you 5 years ago, but I thought it was too soon after the first date for marriage proposals.” His blue eyes still shimmered with tears, but there was happiness there as well. It was mirrored in Cordy’s.

“I would have said yes.”

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