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Title: Just a Little Spell      12/9/04                                                                               Author: Slaymesoftly                                                                                      

Rating: NC17                                                                                                   

 Word Count 100,590                                                                                        

 Season IV – begins during Something Blue                                                                   Summary of this part - Short, sort of mild pwp, from BuffyÕs pov during WillowÕs spell. Followed by SpikeÕs pov of the same time frame. Non-canon, right from the beginning.  Spike and Buffy get a bit more involved than they had a chance to on the show and must learn to live with the consequences. The rest of the story is about how they adjust to their new relationship and how it affects both their lives and the lives around them.

 

Just a Little Spell

 

Part I  Buffy pov

 

I donÕt know what everyone is so wigged out about.  Yeah, ok, maybe it is kinda sudden, but itÕs not like that attraction between us hasnÕt been there since the first time I saw him.  I mean, how blind does everyone have to be to not have noticed?

          Blind.  Oops, my bad.  Poor Giles.  IÕm sure heÕd be handling this a whole lot better if he wasnÕt blind.  But, hey! At least he got a chance to see how valuable Spike will be to us. What with his helping to find a counter-spell and all.

           And Xander?  Where does he get off criticizing my taste in partners?  HeÕs dating an ex-vengeance demon and being pursued by hundreds more. His demon-attracting magnetism is going to get us all killed.   Maybe thatÕs not his fault, but still....

             I felt kinda bad for Riley.  I guess he thought we had something going there until he saw me looking at the wedding dresses.  IÕll have to explain to him that I was just mad at Spike when I started seeing him.  Now that weÕre back together and engaged, obviously I wonÕt be dating anyone else.

             Got to figure out how to get around this whole Òno sunlightÓ deal.  IÕd always thought IÕd get married outdoors in the sunshine, but I guess thatÕs out. SpikeÕs right.  WeÕd be checking in for our honeymoon as Mrs. And Mrs. Big Pile of Dust.  CanÕt have that.  IÕm really looking forward to that honeymoon...

              Whew, that is IF we can wait that long for...Oh, good. There he is, still here and waiting for me.  IÕm glad nobody sat in ÒourÓ chair.  It feels so good to be cuddled on his lap; to have those strong arms around me; to feel him nibbling on my lip; licking my neck; breathing in my ear...

             I wonder what the lump is poking me in the buttÉoh!  ThatÕs what it is! Seems awfully big – IÕm sure Angel never felt like that when I sat on his lap. I wonder if anyone would notice if I just slipped my hand down there to feelÉWhoa!

          Hee! Made Spike jump.  And groan.  Need to shush him.  IÕll tell him IÕll stop touching him if he doesnÕt get quiet.  Ha! That shut him up pretty fast.  I guess he likes what IÕm doing.

             I wonder if Giles would mind if we left the room.  He says he doesnÕt want to hear us kissing.  Maybe I should offer to go into another room.  We could go in his bedroomÉ

              Okaaay, then.  Not a good idea to go to his bedroom.  I had no idea Giles knew words like that!  Maybe heÕll go into his bedroom.  Since he canÕt see, he might as well lie down.  Think IÕll suggest that.

             Oh, he liked that idea.  Good night, Giles.  Whoops!  Ouch!  Maybe I should help? IÕll bet that hurt, walking into the door like that.  Let me go, Spike. IÕm just going to help Giles into his room.  IÕll be right back.  DonÕt go away.

              See? IÕm back.  And youÕre still glad to see me.  I like the way it jumps in my hand when I squeeze it.  And the look on his face.  ItÕs pretty cool the way he bites his lip to keep from making noise. Such a nice lip.  I think IÕll bite it tooÉ

                Now if we can just get rid of Anya and XanderÉOh, theyÕre going into the bathroom. Ha! TheyÕll be in there for a while.  Now thereÕs nobody here except my fiancŽ and me.

              I guess he noticed they were gone, those hands are gettingÉooooo that feels good.  I wonder what heÉgah!  Whoops, quiet, Buffy.  Definitely donÕt want to be interrupted justÉyetÉoh my godÉwhat is heÉ what?  How did he get my underwear off?  I canÕt believe I didnÕt noticeÉoh, thatÕs nice, mmmmm, that just feelsÉfeelsÉfeelsÉlikeÉoh my godÉSpike!

                Well, wasnÕt that a revelation?  Is he laughing at me?  Bet he thinks heÕs the first one to make meÉwell, ok, he is.  But he doesnÕtÕ need to know that.  Just act like it happens all the time, Buffy.  No biggie.  So he made me get a happy just with his thumb.  It was probably an accident.  Maybe he should try it again.  IÕll bet I could ignore himÉ.

           Or, better yet, IÕll bet I can make him happy firstÉJust get this zipper downÉohÉmyÉthat is bigÉandÉhardÉandÉokay, concentrate, Buffy.  See how he scoots down in the chair and moans when you pull on it?  Wonder what heÕd do if IÉhah! Guess he liked that!

 I can do this. Just like licking an ice cream cone or a lollipop – exceptÉbigger, and moving, andÉwhoa! Swallow, Buffy!  Hurry, swallow faster! 

            Take that Spike.  Now whoÕs all Òlook what I made you do, huh?Ó

            Hey, mister!  What do you think youÕreÉoh, forgot – no underwear.  ThereÕs nothing between him and myÉoh, no, that thing wonÕt fit in thereÉwell, okay, maybe if I just lower myself onto it a little bit at a time.

            Stop groaning, Spike.  This is going to take a whileÉin fact, it feels so good going in, it might just take a long ti-Éoof! Okay, or we could just ram it in there. That works too. 

            IÕm not sure how to do this.  Angel just got on top of me and grunted away for a few minutes.  It didnÕt feel anything like thisÉthis is reallyÉquiteÉnice.  When I move up and down, he moves too.  Sets up some niceÉfrictionÉWillow would be proud of me.  Good science word there.  Friction.  Friction is good.  Like friction.  More frictionÉmoreÉfrictionÉmoreÉmoreÉmoreÉFRICTION!

           Hmm, okay.  ThereÕs more than one way to get a happy.  Good to know.  And heÕs stillÉlove his face when heÕs trying to control his demon.  Pretty demon. ItÕs okay, you can come out and play.  Just donÕt get too close to myÉoh, too late.  HeÕs already licking my neckÉfeels kinda good.  Sorta tingley, makes me want toÉ

             I think I might beÉagainÉAre those SpikeÕs fangs in my neck?  Cause they sure donÕt feel likeÉooooohÉwho knew getting your blood sucked out of your body could feel so good?  I think IÕm going toÉ..oh yeah!  Most definitely. Happy number 3Éor is is 4?  I think my brain is turning to mush.

                 IÕm letting Spike suck on my blood while he sticksÉother thingsÉinto other body parts.  And it all just feelsÉ I should be wigging out here.  ItÕs one thing to be engagedÉitÕs something else entirely to let himÉÓMine?Ó what the hell does he mean, ÒMineÓ?  I mean, yeah, okay, engaged to be married and all that, but ÒmineÓ sounds just a little possessive.  Suppose I did that to him?

                Two can play at this game, buster.  Hmmm, he tastes pretty good, nice smooth skin, if I suck real hardÉhah! WerenÕt expecting that one, were you, vampire?  YouÕre mine!  And donÕt you forget it.

                This is nice.  Just the two of us, resting together.  HeÕs still inside me, thatÕs kinda cool.  Makes me feel allÉloved.  Strong arms around me.  Safe.  Loved and safe.  I could get used to this.

              Whoops, Spike hears Xander and Anya coming out.  Quick!  Zip up your pants!  WhereÕs my underwear?  What do you mean, you donÕt know?  Okay, okay, skirt down.  ItÕs not like anybodyÕs going to lift it up to see if IÕm wearing underwear.

                See, all good now.  I know what you guys were doing in there.  Not us though. Nope, just Spike and his fianceŽ, Buffy, cuddling in the big comfy chair.  Old Òwait for the wedding nightÓ Buffy and gentleman Spike.  Just cuddling, and kissing.  Lots of kissingÉkissing is goodÉgot to be the best kisser on the planet.

               Oh look, thereÕs Willow.  SheÕs apologizing for something.  I wonder what she did?  Oh, thatÕs right.  She put a spell on Xander and Giles.  Good thing she didnÕt do that to us.  It might haveÉmight haveÉno.  NoÉthis canÕt be right. WeÕreÉ weÕre engaged.  We love each other.  WeÉweÕre the Slayer and a vampireÉ

              Oh. My. God.  It was a spell.  And now itÕs over.  WeÕre notÉwe donÕtÉwe canÕtÉwhy do I feel like crying?  Why does Spike look so sad?  Must get off the evil vampireÕs lap before he throws me on the floor.  Moving now.  Getting away from evil vampireÉmust run to bathroom.  Avoid looking at evil vampire.  Just back away and leave the roomÉ

               I am not crying.  It looks like IÕm crying when I see my face in the mirror, but IÕm not crying.  There is nothing to cry about.  It was a spell. ItÕs over.  Not our fault.  I donÕt love himÉ  He hates meÉ  As it should beÉ  Life can go back to normal nowÉAre those bite marks on my neck?

 

 

SPIKE POV

 

            DonÕt know whatÕs wrong with the stupid Scoobies.  Even the Watcher.  IsnÕt he supposed to be watchinÕ things?  Seems like he mightÕve noticed how IÕve never been able to take my eyes off his Slayer.  CouldnÕt kill her.  Came right here to her for help when I go out of thatÉplace.

 

            So, yeah, maybe askinÕ her to marry me was a surprise to everybody.  But bloody hell, they HAD to know how I felt about her.   CanÕt say I was sure how she felt about me.  Never prayed so hard in my life as when I was waitinÕ for her to answer me.  WouldÕve begged if I had to.  But she did it.  She said ÒYesÓ. My Slayer said sheÕd marry me.

 

            Guess the Watcher can be forgiven for beinÕ a tad upset.  Must be hard to go blind all of a sudden like that.  Got to be a spell.  If I can help Ôim find a cure, that should ease his mind a little about his Slayer beinÕ with me.

 

            SoddinÕ whelp.  HeÕs shagging an ex-vengeance demon every chance he gets. DoesnÕt need to be gettingÕ all high and mighty with Buffy about her choices.  HeÕs jealous.  I can smell it.  She thinks heÕs not, but he is.  He wants her.  My Slayer.  Not gonna happen, whelp.  Never givinÕ her up.

 

            So cute. The way sheÕs planninÕ this weddinÕ.  Like we have choices about where and when.  What with her beinÕ the Slayer and me a vampire.  In the middle of a meadow on a summerÕs day jusÕ isnÕt in the cards.  We could do moonlight, though.  That might be nice.  Have to mention it.  Moonlight can be right pretty.  And we could go right from the weddinÕ to the honeymoonÉ

 

            Wonder if sheÕs gonna make me wait till then?  JusÕ looking at her makes me hard.  IÕll be walking funny for the next six months if she tries to hold off till then.  DonÕt think she really wants to, though.  JusÕ thinks she should say it.

 

            Ah! Here she is.  My own little heater.  SittinÕ on my lap and cuddling with the Big Bad.  She smells so good, tastes good too, got to have a little nibble of that ear.  Can smell how sheÕs reactinÕ to me.  Know she can feel what she does to meÉ.oh yeah, she feels itÉ

 

            Holy shit!  SheÕs really feelinÕ it!  Oh, Slayer.  You donÕ know what youÕre doinÕ to meÉor maybe she does.  Little minx, tellinÕ me to be quiet or sheÕll stop touchinÕ me.  I can do quietÉmight put my teeth through mÕlip to do it, but if itÕll make her keep that up, I can do itÉ

 

            No way can I keep a straight face now.  She actually asked the Watcher if we could go into his bedroom!  Thought the sgit was gonna have a heart attack on the spot.  Based on the words cominÕ out of his mouth, Ole Ripper mustÕve led an interestinÕ life before he settled downÉ Fuck! She talked him into going to bed!  ThatÕs my girl.  Always on top of things. 

 

            Hey! Not on top of things anymoreÉcome back, love.  Oh, alright. SheÕs jusÕ helpinÕ the Watcher to his room.  Leaving me sitting here, my cock pushing against my zipper, getting all cold without her warm little ass covering it up.

 

            Oh, good, sheÕs back.  Ah, happy cock.  Being petted with her hot little handsÉWhat sheÕs doinÕ to meÉneed toÉbloody hell, sheÕs biting mÕlip with her tiny little teeth.  Wonder if she has any idea what that does to a vampire?

 

            Got to love demon-girl.  SheÕs dragginÕ the whelp off to the bathroom for some noisy shagginÕ.  Good job, girl.  You jusÕ keep that interferrinÕ git in there for a long time while IÉ

 

            Smooth skin, so warm, so soft.  I could run my hands over her body forever.  DonÕ know what I did right in my evil life that she would be wearinÕ a skirt today instead of pants, but musta done somethinÕ to make somebody up there happy.  Can slide my hand right up that silky leg and into her warm, tight littleÉDamn, sheÕs wet.  And ready for me.  Love the way she moves under my hand, love those little noises, whimpers, come for me, love.  Know you want to. Can hear it in those little gasping noisesÉcome on, loveÉlet itÉFuck! Who knew the Slayer would be so responsive?

 

            So adorable.  Trying to pretend that wasnÕt new to her.  Know the bloody poof didnÕt worry about makinÕ her come the one time he had her. All he cared about was getting his dinky little prick in her and losing his soddinÕ soul.  And no way a player like that Parker git knows how to please a woman.  If he did, he wouldnÕt be movinÕ from one to the other like he doesÉ.

 

            Wonder how soon I can make her come agÉbloody hell!  SheÕs got me out and those hot little hands are making meÉBloody buggerinÕ fuck!  She licked me!  JusÕ ran that hot little tongue up there like sheÉoh shit, oh fuckÉSlayer, what areÉno, stop, love, donÕt ÉI canÕtÉ.aaaaaah!

 

            ThatÕs it.  I love this woman.  Love her with every undead cell of my body.  And IÕm not waiting for some fuckinÕ honeymoon to show her how much.  ThatÕs it, love, let me in.  Straddle me, pet.  JusÕ spread those pretty knees and let meÉgodÉyou are so tightÉso wet and hot, but so tightÉyouÕre killinÕ me here, love.  Want toÉtoo slowÉIÕll teach you slow laterÉnow IÕve got to feel you around meÉnow!

 

            This is heaven.  Know it is.  CanÕt be anythinÕ else  - feeling the Slayer all around me, breathinÕ her scent, tasting her skin.  DinÕ take her long to figure out the best way to do this in a chair.  SheÕs bouncing up and down on me like sheÉbloody hellÉshe came again.  Knew sheÕd be a hot little number, but I had no ideaÉGot to keep the demon in.  He wants her too.  Wants to claim herÉdonÕt want to scare herÉmy little Slayer.  IÕll explain about claiminÕ after weÕre married..let her get used to theÉnow sheÕs just fuckinÕ with me.  Biting me, coaxing the demon outÉshe smells so goodÉtastes fuckinÕ fantasticÉjust a little biteÉwhat could it hurtÉcan make it good for herÉthatÕs my baby.  Come for me again, pay no attention to those fangs in your neck, you jusÕ let yourself feel the love IÕm sending youÉGonna make you mineÉ

 

            I did it.  DidnÕt mean to, but I did.  I claimed her.  Claimed my mate.  SÕok, I guess.  WeÕre gonna be married anywayÉsheÕsÉwhat the hell?  What does she think sheÕs doin—Jesus, she claimed me back!  Oh god, love.  You donÕ know what youÕre doinÕ to meÉCominÕ again, love.  Come with meÉcome with me, BuffyÉMake meÉ.Buffy!

 

            ÉThis is nice.  I could get used to this.  Slayer sittinÕ on me, all relaxed and cuddly.  My limp cock still inside her warm body, her blood in my throat.  Want to hold her and love her forever.  Keep her safe.  Never let her out of myÉ

 

            Leave to the soddinÕ whelp to interrupt a moment.  Poor little Slayer, so afraid sheÕll get caught with her panties off.  ThatÕs it, love.  JusÕ pull that skirt down and theyÕll never know what weÕve been doing.  Not Ôless they can tell from the looks on our faces, anyway.  Know I must look like I jusÕ won the lotteryÉ 

 

            What the fuck?  Red jusÕ popped into the room, all teary and apologizinÕ. Oh, she must be the one that mucked up the spell.  Figures.  Well, the WatcherÕll be happier now.  And demonsÕll stop trying to beat down the door for the whelp.  Guess Buffy and I can jusÕ stay here in the comfy chair and watch the others get over beingÉnoÉnoÉnot usÉwe werenÕtÉit was real!  It HAS to be real!  I canÕt give her upÉcanÕt go back toÉ

 

            Bugger.  It was a spell.  Spell to make us think we were gettingÕ married.  But whyÕd it make us want each other so bad?  WhyÕd I think I was in love with the miserable bitch?  SpeakinÕ of whichÉwhy hasnÕt she jumped off my lap yet?  ShouldnÕt she be wipinÕ her lips off and stakinÕ me?

 

            There she goesÉrunninÕ to the bathroom without so much as a Òsorry, SpikeÓÉprobÕly needs to take a shower.  Get rid of the smell of a vampire on her delicate little partsÉSÕwhat I should do too.  Wash the scent of her off my body.  Never get the taste of her blood out of my mindÉpure ambrosia it wasÉIÉbloody hell.  I claimed her!  The Slayer!  And she claimed me back!

 

            Fuck. 

 

 

 

Part II

Chapter One

 

 

Amidst the recriminations, apologies and general uproar that greeted WillowÕs arrival and the subsequent breaking of the spell, no one noticed that Buffy had retreated to the bathroom and not come out; nor that the resident chipped vampire had stormed out of the house, slamming the door behind him.

 

            Eventually, as Willow began a marathon ÒIÕm sorryÓ cookie-baking session, and everyone had chocolate chip goodness in their mouths, Xander looked around and asked, ÒHey, whereÕs the evil, undead, sooo-not-ever-going-to-be-a-bridegroom?Ó

 

            ÒWho knows?Ó Anya said.  ÒMaybe he went for a walk.  You know, to clear his head after the spell?Ó

 

            ÒWho cares?Ó said Buffy, shuddering.  ÒHeÕs not here. ThatÕs all I care about.Ó

 

            ÒRight there with ya, Buffster.  But shouldnÕt we be keeping tabs on him?Ó

 

            ÒHeÕs harmless.  He canÕt hurt anybody, and he has nowhere to go.  HeÕll be back,Ó she said quietly.

 

            HeÕll be back, and IÕll have to face him.  Sooner or later IÕm going to have to talk to him, or look at him, or touchÉ.no, no touching.  There will be no touching of the evil vampire.  Not that heÕd want to.  He probably ran out to get away from me.  HeÕs probably just as repulsed as I am.  And I am.  Repulsed.  Totally.  Never mind the amazing kissing and the soft touches and theÉno!  Repulsed.  Just as I should be.

 

            Giles cleared his throat and looked hard at the very subdued Slayer.

 

            ÒI presume you would like to thank me now for turning down your generous offer to take Spike into the bedroom where your kissing noises would not disturb me?  The Lord only knows what might have happened if you two had been left alone in that state.Ó

 

            Before Anya could get the words out of her mouth, Xander and Buffy shushed her – putting a puzzled pout on her face and a frown on Giles'.

 

            ÒYou WERE never left alone, I hope?Ó He gave the ex-demon and her coughing boyfriend a threatening glare, while Buffy did her best imitation of a deer staring down a semi in the middle of the freeway.

 

            ÒWell,Ó the boy began,  Ònot alone, as such, no.  Not for very long, anyway.  I mean not long enough for any-Ò

 

            ÒYou irresponsible git!  You left Buffy alone with William the Bloody while she was under a spell that had her thinking she was in love with him?  What were you thinking?Ó

 

            Anya refused to be shushed any longer and spoke up forcefully.  ÒWe were thinking that we wanted to have some orgasms and we didnÕt want to do it in front of Spike and Buffy.  Not that I donÕt think we might be worth watching,Ó she added, with a nod in BuffyÕs direction.  ÒBut Xander has this thing about privacyÉÓ

 

            ÒAnd, I repeat,Ó Giles gritted out between his teeth, Òyou left Buffy alone with a vampire that has already killed two Slayers.Ó

 

            Anya looked at him as though he was a not very bright small child and explained slowly,  ÒSpike was in love too.  He wasnÕt going to hurt Buffy.  At worst, he might have given her an orgasm.  Vampires can be very—mmmph!Ó

 

           XanderÕs hand over her mouth brought a merciful halt to her explanation.  The resulting scuffle as the angry ex-demon removed his hand and berated him meant that they all missed the sudden scarlet color that flooded BuffyÕs face.  By the time any one was looking at her again, she had dropped her head and was studiously pretending to read a book.

                 ÒWell, I suppose thereÕs nothing to be done for it, now, Ò Giles grumbled. ÒFortunately, she seems none the worse for the experience.Ó

 

                He glanced over at Buffy, who gave him a weak smile and immediately dropped her head back to the book.  She pretended to read a while longer, then gave it up with a sigh and got to her feet.

 

              ÒI need to patrol,Ó she said, edging toward the door.  ÒWith that spell and everything, who knows what might have gone on while I was thinking aboutÉabout weddings and things.  See you tomorrow!Ó

 

              She whirled and bolted out the door, not dissimilarly from the way the vampire had before her.  As soon as she was safely away from the apartment and the prying eyes of her friends and watcher, she slowed down and finally came to rest sitting on a bench near the campus of S.U.

 

                    Her fingers idly traced the scabbed over marks on her neck as she relived the events of the last few hours.  Unwelcome memories of how solicitous Spike had been when her watcher went blind, how gentle and tender heÕd been with her, how overjoyed when sheÕd said yes to his proposal and worst of all – how completely safe and cherished sheÕd felt when he held her, all battled with memories of the many times heÕd tried to kill her and the times heÕd threatened her friends.

 

              Suddenly she doubled over as a sharp pain shot through her solar plexus and she felt a bolt of rage andÉwas that fear? go through her.  As quickly as it came, the feelings were gone. Shut off as though a switch had been thrown.  She leaped to her feet, sending her senses out in all directions, seeking the source of the sensations.

 

               Buffy wasnÕt stupid.  Even given her usual lack of attention to GilesÕ attempts to educate her about demons and vampires, she had picked up some knowledge of claiming rituals.  She knew immediately whose those feelings they were, and she almost growled in frustration at the way heÕd cut her off.

 

               She found that the marks on her neck were tingling, and that she could increase or decrease the tingles by turning in different directions.  She was soon running through the campus, twisting and turning as the tingles got stronger or weaker.  When they had settled into a steady throb, she knew she was approaching Spike and whatever had caused the initial pain.

              Slowing down, she moved toward a clump of bushes on the edge of the campus, edging cautiously toward the sounds of a struggle emanating from the other side of the clump.  She peered through the leaves and gasped as she saw Spike surrounded by men in black uniforms and commando gear.  Immediately she recognized that these must be the men that had captured and neutered the blond vampire.

 

                 She stood there for minutes, torn between her duty as the Slayer to rid the world of vampires, and the incredible feeling of rage that was flooding her body as Spike tried to defend himself without setting off the agony in his head that she knew would accompany any aggressive moves on his part.  She briefly admired his ability to dodge and evade the many blows that the small group of men tried to land.  His vampire speed and his own innate fighting skills allowed him to hold his own for several minutes.

 

              Suddenly Buffy was on the ground, shaking uncontrollably.   As she struggled back to her feet, she saw that one of the men had apparently gotten close enough to the vampire to hit him with a taser.  The men were now kicking him as he lay on the ground, unconscious and bleeding.  With Spike unable to block the claim, Buffy felt echoes of every blow and she staggered into the clearing, placing herself between Spike and the largest of the commandos.

 

            ÒIs this a private party, or can I play?Ó she asked in a chirpy voice.  There was something vaguely familiar about the man in front of her and she saw him flinch just a little when he saw her face.

 

            InterestingÉapparently I know one of these guys.  Definitely gonna have to explore that angle.  After I get them away from Spike.

 

            She felt Spike stirring behind her and risked a quick glance to see if he was all right.  To her surprise, he looked up at her and said, ÒGet out of here, Slayer.Ó

 

               She shook her head, ÒnoÓ and turned back to face the advancing soldiers, backing up to stand over Spike as she did.  The man who seemed to know her held up his hand and the others stopped their advance.

 

              ÒWhat the hell, Finn?  ItÕs just one girl and sheÕs trying to protect a hostile. Just let me move her out of theÉÓ His attempt to push Buffy to one side resulted in his body being propelled across the clearing and into a bush, from which he could be heard cursing and thrashing around.

           When SpikeÕs voice whispered in her head saying, ÒLeave! Buffy.  Now. Get out of here.Ó she was almost in motion before the impact of what heÕd done hit her.

 

             Son of a bitch! HeÕs using the claim to order me around.  I am sooo going to kick his butt!

 

        ÒIf you donÕt get out of here, love, you wonÕt be kickinÕ anything but plastic walls.  You think theyÕre gonna let you go once they realize what you are?  Leave me, dammit!Ó

 

            Leaving the total wigginess of being able to talk to Spike without speaking aloud as something to worry about later, Buffy shook her head again and crossed her arms over her chest.

 

            ÒGo pick on somebody who can fight back,Ó she said contemptuously. ÒThis vampire belongs to me.Ó

 

               At a signal from the leader, the remaining commandos jumped toward the Slayer all at once.  Of the two coming at her from behind, Spike managed to trip one of them, causing only a minor headache, and Buffy flipped the other one over her shoulder and into the two advancing from the front.  She followed up with a roundhouse kick to the chest of the man remaining on his feet, then turned to grab SpikeÕs hand and yank him to his feet.

 

                 ÒCan you run?Ó

 

                 ÒYeah, Go.  IÕm right behind you.Ó

 

                 She threw a dubious look over her shoulder, but when she saw that he was, in fact, running easily behind her she increased her pace and they were soon off the campus and on the way back to GilesÕ apartment.  Buffy tried to ignore the fact that Spike was still clinging to the hand sheÕd used to pull him up. She told herself she was allowing him to hang on just so that she would know if he began to fall back.

 

                  As they approached the apartment complex, Spike slowed down, pulling on BuffyÕs hand until she stopped and turned to face him.  Now that the immediate danger was over, she remembered that she didnÕt actually want to see him again, let alone be standing in the dark with his hand still in hers.  As he began to gently rub his thumb over her wrist, she moaned and tried to pull away.

 

                ÒNo, Spike. Stop that.  You need to get out of sight.Ó

 

               ÒSo do you, love,Ó he said softly, moving into her personal space and never releasing her hand.  ÒThey know youÕre something special now and theyÕll be wantinÕ to put you in that place and find out what makes you tick.Ó

 

                Damn.  I donÕt want to be this close to him.  ItÕs too much likeÉwhat is he doing?  Stop that!

 

               ÒStop what, love?  All I did was touch your face.Ó

 

             ÒStop touching me!  There will be no touching of faces, or any other body partsÉ.andÉand get out of my head!Ó

 

          ÒAlright, Slayer,Ó he surprised her by saying aloud.  ÒBut youÕre gonna have to learn to stop projecting your thoughts if you donÕt want me to know what they are.Ó

 

             ÒI NEVER want you to know what they are, Spike!  You and my thoughts?  Very not mixy . What do I have to do to make thisÉthingÉgo away?Ó

 

              She thought she saw a flash of pain go across his face, but he quickly masked it with his trademark smirk as he answered, ÒYou mean the claim you put on me, pet?Ó

 

               ÒYou claimed me first!Ó she protested.  ÒWhat the hell did you think you were doing?Ó

 

             ÒI believe I thought I was making sure the world knew how much I loveÉlovedÉthe woman I was going to marry.  DidnÕt mean to cause you any harm, pet.  ÔS why my brain didnÕt fry when I did it, I guess.  IÕm sorry,Ó he finished so softly she could barely hear him.

 

              Buffy guiltily remembered how sheÕd been all over him at the time and how sheÕd unwittingly put her own claim on him.  She looked away from his dejected face and played with the buttons on her shirt.  

 

               This isnÕt his fault.  And itÕs not mine, either.  We were just caught up in WillowÕs stupid spell and we acted the way two people who wanted to get married would have acted.

 

               ÒIÕm sorry, too,Ó she muttered, still looking at her shirt and missing the look of surprise that crossed his face.  ÒThis wasnÕt anybodyÕs faultÉwell, I mean, it was WillowÕs fault, but not yours.  Or mine.  We couldnÕt help what weÉOh god!Ó

 

            Her eyes flew up to meet his puzzled expression.

 

          ÒSpike!  We had sex!  Me. You. Us.  The Slayer.  A vampire.  Oh my god.  I had sex with William the Bloody.  I let youÉI touched yourÉIÉOh my godÉÓ

 

            ÒEasy, pet.Ó He stepped closer and unconsciously rubbed her arms soothingly.  ÒYouÕre gonna hyperventilate on me.Ó

 

              When she didnÕt calm down, but continued to babble as her heart rate shot up and her breath came even faster, he cautiously exerted the claim and sent soothing feelings into her.   He also used his touch to calm her, placing his arms loosely around her body and pulling her into his chest.

 

               ÒEasy, love,Ó he murmured into her ear.  ÒEasy, pet.  ItÕs gonna be alright. I promise.  No oneÕs ever gonna know.  We can get Red to do a forgettinÕ spell if you want.  You donÕt ever have to think about it again, if you donÕt want to.Ó

 

             When he felt her relax and lean into him, resting her head briefly on his chest, he sighed and rested his chin on the top of her head. Knowing it might well be his last chance, he inhaled the herbal scent of her silky hair and stored it away in his memory.

 

              When she felt his arms around her, Buffy immediately calmed down, basking in the somehow still-familiar comfort.  The soothing baritone voice crooning in her ear worked like magic to ease the panic to which she had almost succumbed.

 

              She looked up at him and tentatively asked, ÒNo one will know?  Are you sure? How can I trust you?Ó 

 

                 She winced when she felt the pain that shot through him – even though he smothered it immediately and never let it show on his face.  He quickly adopted his usual snarky expression and said, ÒHey, IÕve got no desire to get dusted over somethinÕ I did because of a spell.  You think I want your Watcher or the whelp knowinÕ weÉespecially now that I canÕt defend mÕself?  And IÕd be the laughinÕ stock of the demon world if they knew IÉif they knew IÕd wanted to marry the Slayer.  No worries, pet.Ó

 

                 Buffy suddenly realized she was being held in the very arms that she was so adamant she needed to forget, and she pushed herself away with a little gasp.

 

                 ÒWhat are we doing?Ó She felt the panic coming back into her voice, but she couldnÕt help it.  There had to be something very wrong with the way SpikeÕs arms felt so right.

 

                ÒNothinÕ, pet,Ó he soothed. ÒWeÕre not doing anythinÕ.  Jus takinÕ a little breather before we go inside.  ÔS alright, love.Ó

 

                ÒStop doing that!Ó

 

                ÒStop doing what?Ó

 

               ÒStop calming me down!  And stop calling meÉlove.  ItÕs notÉright.  IÕm the SlayerÉnotÉnot your love.  That was just the spell.  The spell that we are sooo going to forget!Ó

 

              ÒWas it really all that bad, lo-Slayer?Ó 

              His hand gently traced her face and he didnÕt try to hide what he was feeling.  Buffy tried to ignore the sadness radiating from the vampire as he continued to stroke her cheek.  She vigorously nodded her head, saying firmly, ÒYes, of course it was.  I mean there was kissing, and touching, andÉthen weÉargh!Ó

 

               No, it wasnÕt all that bad.  It wasnÕt bad at all.  It was amazing, actuallyÉBut IÕm the Slayer.  I canÕt--

 

               ÒWhat?!Ò she demanded as the vampire regained his cocky look and moved closer to her, grinning at her indignant expression.

 

               ÒMethinks the lady doth protest too much.Ó

 

               ÒHuh? Who thinks?  What lady? What are you talking about?Ó

 

               ÒYouÕre projectinÕ again, love.Ó  He lowered his mouth to brush his lips across hers, smothering her protest as he did so.  ÒYou wonÕt have any secrets from me if you donÕt learn to control the claim.  IÕll know every littleÉÓ kissÉ ÒnaughtyÓÉ nibbleÉ ÒthoughtÓÉlickÉ ÒyouÓÉkissÉ ÒhaveÓ.

 

                ÒNo fair,Ó she moaned as his tongue licked her lower lip and she unconsciously brought her own tongue out to tangle with it. 

 

               ÒAllÕs fair in love Ôn war, pet.  Know you musta heard that quote.Ó

 

               ÒThis isnÕt either one, Spike!Ó she pushed feebly on his chest as she struggled to ignore the warmth in her lower abdomen created by his lips and tongue.  ÒWeÕre not at war anymore.  And weÕre not in lo-Ò

 

              With a growl, the vampire dropped every barrier heÕd put up to protect her from the claim and let what he was feeling flow between them.  When he heard her gasp, ÒOh my god!Ó and saw her squeeze her eyes shut, he smothered the flow before she could sense how badly sheÕd hurt him with her reaction.

 

             Dropping his arms from where theyÕd remained around her slight body, he stepped away, his posture rigid and his face closed.

 

              ÒRight then. Guess weÕd best be gettingÕ in and talkinÕ to Red about that forgettinÕ spell.  CanÕt have the Slayer walking around remembering how much she wanted the Big Bad now, can we?Ó

 

              He whirled and moved toward the door, not seeing BuffyÕs hand that had come up to reach for him when he finished speaking.  It had been a reflex action on BuffyÕs part.  An instinctive need to soothe the pain her mate was feeling; but when he didnÕt see it, she let her hand drop and moved slowly toward the door, trying desperately not to think to or about him.

 

Chapter Two

                 When the vampire threw open the door and stomped through the room to the kitchen, Giles paused in what he was doing to glare at his unwanted houseguest.

                 ÒIf youÕre going to think you can come and go at will around here, would you please try to demonstrate some manners?Ó

 

                ÒSod off,Ó was the snarled reply, as Spike went into the refrigerator for a packet of blood.  He wanted the bruises and sore muscles left by the commandoÕs kicks to heal immediately.  He wanted no reminders of this night at all, including the taste of the SlayerÕs blood in his mouth.  For once, he was grateful for the flat taste of the pigÕs blood theyÕd been feeding him.

 

                Buffy came in the door behind him, closing it gently before she shrugged off her jacket and sat on the couch.  She carefully avoided looking at the scowling vampire as he brought his mug of blood back into the room and sat in the big chair.

 

               Giles looked back and forth between the two obviously unhappy people and asked, ÒDid something happen while you were out there?  Is there a reason you came back together?Ó

 

                 ÒNo!Ó

 

                 ÒYes!Ó

 

                ÒAha,Ó Xander said, slapping the table in front of him, Òthings are back to normal.  Buffy and Spike canÕt agree on anything and all is right with the world.Ó  He leaned back and smirked at the glaring vampire.  ÒIÕm surprised you made it back here, evil undead.  I would have thought Buffy wouldÕve put a stake through your heart for all that hands-on stuff that went on while you two wereÉÓ

 

                ÒShut up, Whelp.Ó

 

                 ÒShut up, Xander.Ó

 

                 ÒIÕm just sayingÉ You two were all cozy, cuddling there in that chair.  All that kissing andÉwhatever.  It made ME sick.  I can just imagine how Buffy must—Ò

 

               The growl from the vampire was matched by the angry hiss from the Slayer and for once the not terribly bright young man got the message and bit back the rest of what he wanted to say.

 

                 ÒAll right, sheesh, I get it.  You donÕt want to talk about it.  CanÕt say I blame you, Buffster, but I would have thought--"

 

                 ÒXander!Ó  Buffy yelled just as Spike leaped to his feet and crossed the room too quickly for human eyes to register his movement.  Before he could follow through on his clearly headache-inducing intentions, Buffy stepped between them and put her hands on his chest.  She could feel him trembling under her fingers as she gently pushed him away from the table.

 

             ÒPlease,Ó she said quietly, unconsciously rubbing her thumbs against his tee-shirt covered chest in a soothing fashion.  She felt the anger burning inside and couldnÕt help agreeing with him just a little.  What theyÕd done together had felt completely right at the time, and if what Spike had revealed about his feelings for her was true, then she could easily understand his rage at hearing it treated so casually.

 

                As she gently ran her hands out to rub his upper arms, she could feel him begin to calm down and when he gave her an abrupt nod and turned away, she breathed a sigh of relief.  She watched him go back to the chair and sit down, glowering at the bewildered boy across the room.

 

               ÒBuffy!  You saw that!  He tried to attack me.  Why isnÕt he dust?Ó

 

               ÒShut up, Xander,Ó she snapped at him.  ÒI donÕt want to hear another word from you about the spell or anything that might have happened while we were under it.  Is that clear?Ó

 

                 ÒWell, sure, Buff.  You donÕt want to talk about it.  I get that.  It must have beenÉBut if you just stake him, you wonÕt have to think about it anymore. None of us are going to blame you for what the spell made you do, but if heÕs not around to remind youÉÓ

 

                    ÒLeave Spike alone,Ó she said in her best Slayer voice.  ÒAll of you,Ó she added, casting a look around the room.  ÒJust leave him alone.Ó

 

                    Her watcherÕs eyes narrowed as he looked back and forth between the two powerful people in his living room.  As upsetting as heÕd found it to listen to them kissing and making plans for a life together while they were under the spell, he found it much more disquieting that they were not back to their usual snarking and arguing now that it was over.  The fact that his slayer seemed to be protecting the neutered vampire was even more disturbing.

 

             Although it was now well after midnight, everyone decided that they would head for their own homes and dorm rooms to try to get some sleep before beginning the day.  Xander and Anya left first, the boy staying a safe distance from the chair holding the morose vampire.  Buffy and Willow gathered up their things and told Giles ÒGood nightÓ.  As they walked toward the door, Willow hesitated as though she was going to say something to Spike, then shook herself and kept going.

 

Buffy couldnÕt help taking a last look in Spike's direction, only to find him staring at her with an unreadable look on his face.  She flushed when his  ÒSweet dreams, petÓ echoed inside her head and before she could stop herself she thought  ÒGood night, Spike."

 

           When the door had closed behind the two girls, Spike turned his gaze back to the room only to find Giles staring at him intently.  He reminded himself that BuffyÕs Watcher, tweed coats and spectacle polishing to the contrary, was neither stupid nor incapable of dealing with vampires by himself.  He flashed back to when Angelus had killed the gypsy computer teacher and a grieving Giles had taken on the older vampire armed with nothing but a torch and a stake.

 

                 Spike forced himself to look harmless and uninteresting as he stood up and carried his empty cup to the kitchen.  He started to drop it in the sink when a loud cough from Giles made him sigh and rinse it out carefully before setting it to drain on the side.  He returned to the living room, giving the watcher an irritated glare just to reinforce his position as unwilling guest.

 

                   To his surprise, the other Brit went to the cupboard and came back with two glasses and a bottle of good Scotch.  He raised his eyebrow at the vampire in query, then, at SpikeÕs suspicious nod, poured them both a full two fingers of the expensive blend.  When they were both seated and sipping from their glasses, he looked hard at Spike and asked, ÒWhat happened tonight?Ó

 

                For a minute, Spike panicked, sure that the watcher was referring to his claiming the Slayer and that he was graciously allowing him one last drink before he killed him.   Then he realized that Giles had gone back to the original question heÕd asked before they were all sidetracked by XanderÕs jealous insistence that Buffy stake Spike.

 

                 Taking a long sip of the smooth liquor, Spike laid it out for the Watcher.

 

                  ÒRan into a bit of trouble with those wankers that did this to me.Ó He gestured toward his head and the still visible scar there.  ÒDid alright until one of them got me with the soddinÕ taser and I went down.  Slayer showed up while they were using me for football practice.Ó

 

                 Giles frowned.  ÒBuffy stepped in?  That was very foolish of her.Ó

 

                 ÒYeah. Tried to tell the silly bint that, but I donÕt think she listens real well.Ó

 

                 ÒYou have no idea how right you are,Ó Buffy's Watcher murmured, waiting for the vampire to continue.

 

       ÒYeah, well, anyway, sheÕs tells Ôem to get lost, they try to manhandle her out of the way, andÉyou can probably guess the rest.  We ran until we knew they werenÕt followinÕ, then came back here.Ó

 

                   ÒBuffy fought humans?Ó  Giles sounded more upset than he actually was.  He was more than aware of how evil humans could be and had no real problems dealing with them, but it was unlike his Slayer to be willing to hurt them.

 

                   ÒWell, not so much fought as tossed Õem away from me.  She only actually hit one of them.  Big git, almost looked like he recognized her.Ó

 

                    ÒDid she know him?Ó

 

                  ÒHave to ask her that.  They were all wearing masks and head covers – real ninja-type stuff.  Would be hard to say what any of them looked like.Ó

 

                  ÒWould you be able to recognize any of them again?Ó

 

                   Spike didnÕt bother to ask what the other man meant, he just responded thoughtfully, ÒWas tryinÕ to keep my distance, so I didnÕt get a real good chance to memorize anybody.  Think I might be able to pick up on a couple of the scents though if I had a chance.  Enough to know that IÕd smelled it before, anyway.Ó

 

                   Giles nodded and continued to sip his drink.  They drank in surprisingly companionable silence for some time before Spike cleared his throat and said, ÒUh, Watcher?Ó

 

                   Giles raised his eyes, which had been focused on nothing as he digested what Spike had told him.

 

                    ÒTheseÉpeople.  The ones that run that lab.  I donÕt think theyÕre all that fussy about what they label ÔdemonÕ and now that theyÕve seen the Slayer in actionÉÓ

 

                     Giles sat up with a start.  ÒDear Lord!  Do you think they will come after Buffy?Ó

                    Spike shrugged and finished off his scotch.  ÒJusÕ sayinÕ.  SheÕs not exactly your average co-ed, and now that theyÕve seen how strong she is, IÕm thinkinÕ theyÕll be wantinÕ to take a closer look.Ó

 

                    ÒYou could very well be right, Spike,Ó the Watcher said, finishing his own drink and taking the empty glasses to the kitchen.  ÒI will instruct Buffy to be careful until we can find out who and what these people are and what they are doing in Sunnydale.Ó

 

                   He turned his head to look at the very subdued vampire.  ÒI suppose itÕs pointless to chain you back up now that youÕve had the freedom to come and go as you please.Ó

 

                 ÒNot goinÕ anywhere, Watcher.  Not till the Slayer tells me to.  Then IÕll try to find someplace to lie low till those wankers get out of here.  Or until I can make them fix whatever they did to mÕ head.Ó

 

                    ÒWell, IÕm going to bed.  If you are going to keep vampire hours, please keep the telly turned down low.Ó

 

                    ÒNo problem.  ProbÕly gonna catch some kip myself.  ItÕs been a tiring couple of days and IÕm a bit knackered.Ó

 

                   Giles shot him a look, but Spike's expression showed nothing but weariness as he threw himself down on the couch.

                    ÒNighty-night, Rupert,Ó he drawled as he rolled over and put his face in the cushion.

 

                    ÒGood night, Spike,Ó he replied before he realized he was responding politely to a vampire.  Shaking his head at the way WillowÕs spell had changed them all, he went upstairs and shut himself up in his bedroom.

 

                   Below, Spike rolled back over as soon as the man left the room and lay on his back staring at the darkened ceiling.  He relived every minute of the spell, beginning with his proposal and BuffyÕs enthusiastic acceptance and all the way through to their short but intense moments of passion.  He looked at the chair, trying to recapture the feeling of having his woman warm on his lap, the feel and smell of her as she wrapped herself around him.

 

                 He felt himself growing hard as he thought about their kissing and touching, and the way sheÕd innocently brought him off with her tongue like he was an adolescent boy.  He groaned and unconsciously pictured her sucking on him, her golden hair spread across his bare abdomen and her head bobbing up and down in rhythm with his hips.

 

              He unzipped his pants and allowed his aching erection to spring out and into his waiting hand.  While he pulled on it vigorously, he imagined Buffy sitting astride him again, riding him hard, her head thrown back as she arched over him.  Suddenly, he could feel her as she woke up, writhing with the sensations building in her body, the frantic movement as she tried to increase the pressure on her clit.  He didnÕt stop to think about how she would react to his being in her head while he was servicing himself, he just sent his thoughts out as he pulled even harder on his cock.

 

                        ÒCome for me, love.  I know you can feel me.  Want you so bad.  Make yourself come for me, Buffy.  IÕm here, with you.  Are you thinking about me, love? Can you feel how much I want you?  How hard I am just thinkinÕ about you? Come with me, Buffy.  Let yourself feel me the way IÕm feelingÕ you.Ó

 

                        ÒOh my god.  Spike? Spike? What are youÉooooohÉ.why am IÉHow is this happening?  Why does it feel like youÕre touchingÉmmmmÉyou have to stopÉstopÉdonÕtÉ stopÉyouÕre making meÉoh god,  I think IÕm going toÉGah!Ó

 

                        When he felt her find her release, he let himself explode in his hands, gasping her name as he spent himself.   He lay still on the couch, taking unnecessary panting breaths as he let his thoughts go where they might.  Suddenly, there was a tentative voice in his head.

 

                        ÒSpike?  Can you hear me?  Did we justÉ what just happened here?  How did youÉWhat the hell???Ó

 

                        He winced as her initial satiated bewilderment turned to outrage when the reality of what happened sank in.

 

                        ÒSorry, pet.  I didnÕt realize I was projectinÕ.  I was just thinkinÕ about you while IÉwell, was just thinkinÕ about you. ThatÕs all. DidnÕt know it could carry that farÉor that you wouldÉDidnÕt know it would effect you like that till it was too late to stop.Ó

 

                        ÒWell, how the hell did you think it would effect me?.  Suppose I hadnÕt been alone?  ItÕs just lucky that Willow went down the hall to the bathroom while I was sleeping.  If sheÕd come back a few seconds soonerÉOh, this is sooo not good.Ó

 

                        ÒI thought it was pretty good, pet.  Seemed to me like you were enjoying—Ò

 

        Buffy could hear the smirk in his voice.

 

                        ÒDonÕt even go there!  You got into my head when I was sleeping andÉandÉÓ

 

                        There was silence for a full minute, silence that was permeated with anger and regret.  Finally the vampire could stand it no longer.

 

                        ÒBuffy?  Talk to me, love. I didnÕt mean to do it.  I swear I didnÕt. But was it so awful?  WhatÕs wrong?  Talk to me, Slayer.Ó

 

                        ÒWhatÕs wrong, SpikeÓ He flinched at the venom he could feel coming through as she said his name.  ÒWhatÕs wrong is that you got into my head while you wereÉwhatever you were doingÉand made me do it with you.  ItÕs likeÉitÕs like you raped me.Ó

 

                        The accusation tore through him, rendering him incapable of coherent thought.

 

                        ÒShe thinks IÉit felt like rape?  I never meant toÉwould neverÉcould neverÉnot rapeÉnever force herÉjusÕ want to love herÉcanÕt help what happens to me when I think about herÉhow can she thinkÉÓ

 

                        While he was able to block many of his incoherent thoughts from going through to the Slayer, there was no way for him to hide the anguish that her words caused.  He curled in on himself on the couch, clutching his stomach and choking back the sobs that wanted to burst from his throat in a very unmanly fashion.  As soon as he had enough control to do it, he set up the barriers between them, not wanting her to know how much her thoughts had hurt him, and unwilling to take the chance that she wasnÕt through with him.

 

                     Across the town, on the campus of Sunnydale University, Buffy was sent into her own gasping ball of pain as the anguish Spike was feeling poured into her.  Very few of his words came through coherently, although she picked up enough to get the gist of what he was thinking, but the incredible emotional pain, regret, shame and sorrow her words had inspired was overwhelming. 

 

                   ÒBuffy?  WhatÕs wrong?Ó  WillowÕs concerned voice penetrated the rapidly fading pain and the Slayer sat up to look at her friend sorrowfully.

 

                      ÒIÉIÕm all right, Willow.  It was just a sudden cramp.  I guess I pulled something tonight throwing those big soldiers around.  Go back to sleep.  IÕll be fine.Ó

 

                   ÒOkay,Ó her friend said dubiously as she watched Buffy sink back down onto her bed.  ÒIf youÕre sure youÕre all right.Ó

 

                   ÒIÕm fine, Willow.  Just fineÉÓ her voice trailed off as she sent her newly awakened senses out trying to find Spike, but there was nothing for her to follow.  It was as though the vampire didnÕt exist.  She couldnÕt sense him at all and was amazed at how alone she suddenly felt.

                  She eventually went back to sleep, her fingertips resting lightly on the scabs on her neck.

 

Chapter Three

                       

                  Periodically throughout the day, Buffy sent tentative thoughts out, seeking some sort of contact with Spike, but there was no trace of him anywhere.

 

                      IÕm not worried.  NothingÕs happened to him.  HeÕs safe at Giles.  HeÕs just mad at me and doesnÕt want –no heÕs not mad at me.  ThatÕs not what I felt before heÉit wasnÕt anger.  Not at me, anyway.  Damn him!  He knows me well enough to know I say things I donÕt mean when IÕm mad.  He canÕt think I really meantÉI mean I did mean it.  In a way.  It WAS without my permission.  I didnÕt tell him he couldÉWhat does he mean, he canÕt help what I do to him. The spellÕs over.  He CAN so help it.  Look at me.  You donÕt see me mooning over him or dreaming about how it felt toÉor what a good kisser he isÉor how he made meÉgah!

 

                   Telling herself she was just checking in with her Watcher before patrol, Buffy hurried to GilesÕ apartment as soon as her classes were over.  She burst in the door, startling the man who was quietly reading at the table.

 

 ÒBuffy?  Is something wrong?  YouÕre all flushed and agitatedÉÓ

 

 ÒNo, nothingÕs wrong.  What could possibly be wrong?  EverythingÕs fine.  The spell is gone; I stayed awake in class today; everything is hunky dory.  Why wouldnÕt it be?Ó

 

 Giles stared at her intently for a few seconds before shrugging and going back to his book.

 

 ÒIndeed.  Why wouldnÕt it be?Ó

 

 ÒWhereÕs Spike?Ó she blurted abruptly after scanning the visible parts of the apartment and seeing no sign of the vampire.

 

ÒI donÕt know, actually.  I got the impression he was planning to stay here until there was a reason to leave, but when I awoke this morning, he was gone.  Quite rude, I have to say.  To just leave like that in the middle of the night without leaving a note or anything.  Well, thatÕs what I get for expecting a vampire to behave like a gentleman, I suppose.Ó

 

 ÒDid you need him for something, Buffy?Ó he inquired when she didnÕt respond to his reply, except to slump down into the chair sheÕd spent so much time in with the missing vampire.

            ÒWhat?  Oh, no. No, I donÕt need himÉI justÉjust wanted to talk to him about those commandos last night.  To see if heÉheÉto see if he remembered anything important about them.Ó She paused her babbling, quite pleased that sheÕd come up with a good explanation for her behavior.

 

ÒOh, well then, no problem.  Spike and I chatted about that quite a bit last night after you left.  I can bring you up to speed.  Essentially, he did not get any more of a look at them than you did, although he does think he might be able to recognize a scent or two under the right circumstances.Ó

 

 ÒOh, well.  ThatÕs good thenÉhe told you all about themÉso you knowÉso I donÕt really need to talk to himÉÓ

 

Giles stared at her intently.  ÒThat is correct, Buffy.  You have no need to talk to Spike.Ó

 

ÒRight.  No need.  Nope, no needing here.Ó  She gave her watcher a dazzling smile.  ÒI donÕt need him at all.Ó

 

 ÒExactly.Ó

 

 There was an uncomfortable silence while Buffy struggled to maintain her cheerful smile and the watcher tried to figure out why she was behaving so strangely.  He mentally reviewed what Spike had told him about the previous nightÕs events and could come up with no reason for her behavior aside from perhaps knowing one of the men.

 

ÒBuffy?Ó he quietly interrupted her attempted cheerfulness.  ÒSpike did mention that it appeared that one of the men recognized you.  Did you know one of them?Ó

 

 Grateful to have something else to talk about, Buffy hastened to answer him.  ÒIÕm not sure.  He definitely acted like he knew me, and there was something sorta familiar about his size and voice, butÉI donÕt know, Giles.  I canÕt quite place him.  Must not be somebody I know very well.  Maybe somebody IÕve seen around schoolÉÓ  She drifted off in thought then her eyes went wide.   ÒOh my god!  I think it was Riley!  I even remember that one of the men called him, ÒFinn.Ó  How could I have not noticed that?Ó

 

ÒFinn? Riley? Unusual name, that.Ó

ÒNo, no. Not Finn Riley.  Riley Finn.  The TA in Professor WalshÕs psychology class.  ThatÕs who it was!Ó

 

ÒSomeone on the faculty?Ó

 

 ÒWell, a grad student.  HeÕs very tight with Professor Walsh.  Lives in a fraternity house with a lot of other grad students.  All big, fit guys, now that I think of itÉÓ

 

 ÒAnd you know where he lives becauseÉÓ

 

            ÒOh, well,Ó she blushed and looked down at her hands, ÒI think he likes me.  WeÕve gone out for coffee a couple of times andÉWhatÕs the matter, Giles?Ó

 

            ÒI am just recalling something Spike said about those men and theirÉemployersÉhaving some interest in you now that they know you are not a normal girl.  Buffy, I think you will need to be very careful around this Riley Finn.  At least until we know more about this organization.Ó

 

            ÒSpikeÕs just being paranoid.  So far all these guys have done is capture demons and vampires.  Why would they have any interest in me?  IÕm on their side.Ó

 

            At least I am unless theyÕre trying to hurt Spike.

 

             ÒThat may be true, Buffy, but until we are sure they mean you no harm, I want you to be particularly careful around them. Give them no reason to suspect you know who they are, or that you are not a normal co-ed.Ó

 

             ÒI AM a normal co-ed!Ó she pouted, then at her WatcherÕs disbelieving expression she amended, ÒWell, except for the super-strength and the slayageÉ.Ó

 

            ÒPrecisely,Ó he said dryly.  ÒJust be careful, will you, please?  Perhaps you could bring this Riley Finn around to meet us?  Introduce him to your friends?  That would give us a chance to size him up.Ó

 

             ÒWell, Willow already knows him, cause sheÕs in the same class with me, but I guess I couldÉoh my god!Ó

 

             ÒWhat?  What?Ó

 

             ÒI ran into Riley while I was under the spell.  In front of a store selling wedding gowns!  I told him I was marrying an older manÉa man named Spike.  Oh, I am soooo screwed.Ó

 

            ÒNonsense.  YouÕll just have to tell himÉtell him you were kidding or somethingÉyouÕll think of something.  I have great faith in your ability to come up with a convincing story, Buffy.  Just imagine IÕve given you instructions that youÕve completely disregarded and now you have to explain why you did so.  I feel sure you will come up with something.Ó

 

                  ÒOkay. Thank youÉI think.Ó  She stared suspiciously at her Watcher, not sure if sheÕd just been insulted or not.

 

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

 

                In a plush office deep under the Lowell House, a grim looking woman was questioning what she had, until now, considered her best squad of demon catchers.

 

                 ÒAll right, Agent Finn.  Explain this to me again, one more time.  You had Hostile Seventeen down and were preparing to re-capture him when a small woman told you he was Òher vampireÓ? 

 

                   ÒUh, yes, that was pretty much how it went.Ó  He looked down at his feet uncomfortably while his companions nodded their heads.

 

                    ÒAnd when you attempted to remove her, she took out six of my best men.  By herself.  Without a weapon.  And without actually harming any of you except for bruises?Ó

 

                   ÒUh, Professor Walsh?  The vampire tripped me,Ó one of the men offered helpfully.

 

                     ÒOh, well IÕm sure that made all the difference,Ó she replied with poorly concealed sarcasm.  ÒNow to continue; when she had incapacitated all of you, she and the vampire ran off and you were not able to keep up with them?Ó

 

                      ÒThey ran really fast,Ó Riley mumbled to accompanying agreement from his men.

 

                       ÒDo we have any idea who or what this woman is?  Is she a demon? Another vampire?Ó

 

                        ÒActually, Professor Walsh, I believe she might be a freshman here at the university.  A student in your psych 101 class, Buffy Summers.Ó

 

                        ÒNot a vampire then, if she goes around in daylight.  Perhaps a form of demon weÕve not encountered yetÉ.Ó

 

                       ÒIÉI donÕt think so.  She seems like an ordinary girl to me.Ó

 

                       Riley shifted uncomfortably as one of his men snickered.  Maggie Walsh fixed the laughing soldier with a cold eye and raised an eyebrow.

 

                     ÒRiley is trying to date her,Ó the still snickering man explained.  ÒHeÕd like nothing better than a chance to learn more about her.Ó

 

           ÒWell, that works out nicely then, Agent Finn.  I suggest you pursue a relationship with this girl and endeavor to learn more about her and her remarkable abilities.Ó

 

                   ÒHe called her ÔSlayerÕ,Ó Graham said quietly.

 

                   Maggie whirled and fixed the soldier with a steely gaze.  ÒWho called her ÔSlayer?Õ and why wasnÕt I told this immediately?Ó

 

                  ÒThe vampire.  Hostile Seventeen.  He told her to leave and he called her ÔSlayerÕ.Ó

 

                    ÒThis just continues to get more interesting.  A hostile is rescued by a small girl whom he attempts to send out of danger and whom he addresses by the title of a mythical creature designed to kill his kind.Ó

 

                     ÒThe operative word there is ÔmythicalÕ, Maggie, Ò Riley hastened to interrupt as he saw her go into Ôcurious scientistÕ mode.  ÒThe Slayer doesnÕt exist.  ItÕs just a story handed down by superstitious vampires.Ó

 

                    ÒIt would appear, Agent Finn, that there is at least one extremely superstitious vampire out there who believes your Ms. Summers is, in fact, this mysterious ÔSlayerÕ.  I suggest you put your efforts into both finding Hostile Seventeen and the rather expensive piece of government equipment he is carrying around in his head, and into learning more about Ms. Summers and her possible involvement with him.Ó

 

                       ÒSheÕs not ÔinvolvedÕ with him,Õ Riley stated firmly, while behind his back his friends rolled their eyes.  ÒIf she actually intended to rescue him from us, I am sure she had a good reason.  She probably doesnÕt know heÕs a vampire and thought we were mugging him or something.Ó

 

                   ÒWell, weÕll find out, wonÕt we?Ó  She waved her hand in dismissal, calling Riley back into the room after his men had filed out.

 

                  ÒRiley, you know I trust you implicitly,Ó she began, Òbut I must have your assurance that you will take all precautions with this girl until we have learned more about her.  Under no circumstances is she to learn about our facility until we know who and what she is and whose side she is on.Ó

 

                   ÒSheÕs not a demon,Ó he insisted stubbornly.

 

                      ÒThat remains to be seen, does it not?Ó  She turned away in dismissal and the big man left the room shaking his head.

 

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

                     As darkness fell over the Hellmouth and the small city above it, a lone motorist drove past the ÒWelcome to SunnydaleÓ sign and headed for Los Angeles.  Inside the big car with the tinted windows, a bleached blond vampire clutched the steering wheel and glared through the small opening in the darkened windshield.

 

                        ThatÕs all I am to her.  A vampire.  Something that would rape her, kill her friends.  Something beneath her.  IÕll show her.  If thatÕs all she thinks I can be, than thatÕs what IÕll be.  ThereÕs got to be some demon doctors in LA can figure out what those tin soldiers did to me and fix it.  IÕll get this problem taken care of, and when I doÉ

 

                            He completely lost his train of thought at that point, because he really had no idea at all what he would do once he could kill again.  Instinct told him to go back to Sunnydale and kill the woman who was making him so miserable.  But her teeth marks on his neck, faded as they might be, and her blood inside him that was making every mile he traveled more painful than the last, were both telling him that he could no more kill her than he could spend the day at the beach.

 

                      With a sigh, he put aside any thoughts of what he would do once he was relieved of his disability and drove on into the night.

 

 

Chapter Four

 

            After four days with no sign of Spike, Buffy was having a hard time hiding the fear she felt for him from her watcher and her friends.  Going through the days pretending to be glad she hadnÕt seen him, that she was actually interested in the secret commando still trying to date her, that she wasnÕt being eaten up with worry was turning her into a very cranky Slayer.

 

          ÒHey, Buffy.  Wait up!Ó  The cheerful shout from the TA leaving the cafeteria building was not what she wanted to hear just that minute.  However, she remembered GilesÕ admonition that she get to know the man and bring him around to meet her friends.  She was under strict orders not to allow Riley to get her alone or to go anywhere with him without notifying her watcher.

 

          ÒHey, Riley.  How are you?Ó  She tried to look genuinely interested in him and not suspicious.

 

          ÒIÕm good.  You?Ó

 

         ÒCouldnÕt be better,Ó she chirped, flashing him her best cheerleader smile.

 

        ÒI thoughtÉI mean if you donÕt have plansÉwould you like to get some coffee?Ó

 

        No.  IÕd like to find the annoying blond vampire that you were trying to capture the other night.  And IÕd like to know what you did you him and why.

 

        ÒSure, Riley.  That sounds like fun.Ó

 

         An hour and a creamy latte later, they had agreed to meet that evening for dinner and then to join her friends at GilesÕ apartment.  As Buffy walked away to hurry to her next class, Riley watched her hair gleaming in the sunlight and shook his head at the idea that she was anything but an exceptionally pretty coed.  Perhaps one that had studied martial arts for many years, he allowed, remembering the kick to his chest that had sent him to the ground.  But, normal. Surely, normal. Not a demon.  Or a Slayer.  Whatever that was.

 

          When Buffy got back to her dorm to dress for her date, she called Giles to let him know that she was bringing Riley by that evening to meet him.  They agreed that they would say Giles was her uncle on her motherÕs side of the family and that they were so close because he had been the librarian at her high school for years.

 

        Buffy had finished what she had to say and was preparing to hang up when her Watcher cleared his throat.

 

        ÒWhat is it, Giles?Ó Buffy asked with a sigh.  She knew that sound. It meant she was going hear something she didnÕt want to hear.  In this case, contrary to what her Watcher believed, that was not true.

 

        ÒUh, Spike has returned, Buffy.  He has not been very forthcoming about where he was, but he is back and taking up space on my couch even as we speak.Ó

 

        BuffyÕs joy at hearing that the vampire was not dusted or captured was immediately mitigated by the knowledge that Riley would recognize him the minute he saw him.

 

        ÒHeÕs going to have to hide, Giles.  I donÕt want Riley to see him, or to wonder why weÕre keeping a vampire in the bathroom.Ó

 

        ÒNor do I, Buffy.  However, he is being quite stubborn about leaving here until he has seen you again.Ó

 

        ÒI donÕt have time for this now.  Put the bleached bloodsucker on the phone.  Please,Ó she added into the chilly silence that greeted her demand. She rolled her eyes at the Brit and his insistence on good manners even in the midst of a crisis.  She heard him give an aggrieved sniff before handing the phone to Spike.

 

        ÒSlayer.Ó  His voice gave no indication of his mood.  He just waited patiently for her to explain why she wanted to speak to him.

 

        ÒSpike.Ó

 

        ÒWhere have you been?  I was worried sick.  I thought you wereÉhow could you do that to me?Ó

 

       There was no response and she realized she wasnÕt feeling anything from him.  He was deliberately blocking his thoughts from her and she couldnÕt tell if he was receiving hers or not.

 

        ÒFine,Ó she growled.  ÒWeÕll do it this way.  You cannot be there tonight when I bring Riley over.  HeÕll recognize you immediately.Ó

 

        ÒNo he wonÕt,Ó was the cryptic response.  ÒThe only person heÕs going to meet is your long lost cousin from the old country.  Come to visit with Uncle Rupert.Ó

 

         ÒSpikeÉÓ She put as much threat and warning into her voice as she could, but she could tell he was going to ignore her. 

 

      ÒItÕll be alright, pet.    Just want to get a sniff of the wanker and see if heÕs who you think he is.  He wonÕt know me. I promise.Ó

 

        As quickly as he appeared in her head, he was gone before she could respond.

 

        HeÕs gonna have to teach me how to do that, dammit.

 

        ÒWhat if you recognize him and go all ÒgrrrrÓ on me?Ó

 

        ÒNot gonna happen, Slayer.  I can control myself if I need to.  Anyway, itÕs not like I could do anything to him if I did let the demon out, now, is it?Ó

 

        ÒI suppose not,Ó she agreed with a sigh.  ÒAll right.  Tell Giles weÕll be by around 8:30.Ó

 

        ÒThat late?Ó he responded noncommittally.

 

         ÒYes, weÕre going out to dinner first.  And I need to get off the phone and get dressed or IÕm going to be late for my da- to meet him.Ó

 

        There was no response from the other end of the line until Giles got back and said, ÒBuffy?Ó

 

          ÒGiles? Where did Spike go?Ó

 

          ÒHe threw the phone down and stomped into the kitchen.  WhatÕs going on?Ó

 

         ÒNothing.  NothingÕs going on.  HeÕs just behaving like a baby.  IÕll see you guys later.Ó

 

         After a nice dinner at one of SunnydaleÕs better restaurants, and a couple of glasses of wine, Buffy had decided that Riley was a pretty nice guy and much more interesting than she had originally thought.  Of course, that was before I knew he had a secret identity, she admitted ruefully.

 

         Over dessert she tried to get some information from him about what heÕd been doing since he left Iowa as a brand new college graduate.  She noticed he was a little vague about his Òworked for the government, until I decided to try grad schoolÓ, but she didnÕt want to alarm him by appearing to be too curious.  She reminded herself that he probably had no idea she had recognized him the other night and would not suspect that she was pumping him for information.

 

          It was fairly obvious that he was very interested in learning more about her, questioning her about how long sheÕd lived in Sunnydale, what her hobbies were, and what she liked to do in the evenings.  She could see that her equally vague answers were frustrating him when he tried to lead the conversation into the martial arts and he finally came right out and asked her if sheÕd ever studied them.

 

         Buffy was tempted to answer, ÒNo,Ó just to see him get more frustrated, but she realized that would seem too much like a lie after what the man had already seen, so she nodded and admitted that sheÕd studied some Òbasic self defense stuff.  You know, the kinds of things a girls needs to know in this town.Ó

 

         She didnÕt elaborate about what she meant by Òthis townÓ and he didnÕt pursue it, just nodded happily to himself as though she had given exactly the answer he wanted to hear. Then he led the conversation into another direction, beginning with a discussion of the latest horror movie and, somewhat transparently, into a discussion of vampires and the unlikelihood of them being real.

 

          Buffy laughed, but with the sideways look that he would have gotten from any resident of Sunnydale not dwelling in a fantasy world.  For her to have lived in the town for as long as she had without at least suspecting that vampires were real would raise a red flag immediately, so she went with a denial that was intended to be accepted but not believed.

 

        He accepted her laughing denial with good grace and they finished their dessert and prepared to leave for her watcherÕs apartment.

 

        The closer they got to GilesÕ, the more nervous Buffy became about Spike.  She couldnÕt imagine how he was going to disguise himself enough that he wouldnÕt be immediately recognized both as a ÒhostileÓ and as the specific hostile for which they were searching.  She reminded herself that Riley would not have her slayer senses to warn him that Spike was a vampire and she crossed her fingers that he had done something to hide his platinum hair.

 

          She couldnÕtÕ resist sending him a quick thought as they approached the door, not really expecting him to be open to communication, but hoping he might be listening for their approach.  She was caught off guard when, before she could send a coherent thought, he was in her head offering soothing advice.

 

       ÒCalm down, pet.  YouÕre heartÕs poundinÕ like it used to when you knew you had to fight me.Ó 

 

         Buffy could feel the smirk in his voice and growled back at him, ÒIÕm just worried about you, you dumbass.  And my heart sooo did not pound when I had to fight you.  I always knew I could beat you.Ó

 

       ÒMustÕve been something else that made it pound so hard then?  If it wasnÕt fear, what was it then? Hmmmm?Ó

 

            ÒShut up, moron.  WeÕre here and youÕd better be invisible.Ó

 

        ÒClose enough to, luv.  YouÕll see.Ó

 

        Buffy shook off her trepidation and gave the puzzled Riley a dazzling smile as she opened the door to the apartment. 

 

       ÒWeÕre here,Ó she announced unnecessarily as she pushed the door in.  ÒHere we are.  At my uncleÕs apartment.  To meet my friends.  And my relatives. And, could I sound any more nervous?Ó

 

        ÒI think itÕs cute,Ó Riley said, smiling at her.  ÒAnd, itÕs okay.  IÕm a little nervous too.Ó

 

         He moved closer to her and put his arm around her shoulders to give her a little squeeze.  He then froze as the sound of a snarl echoed through the small room and he glanced around quickly, for something to use as a weapon. He felt Buffy stop abruptly, her face a study in shock and disbelief.  He quickly scanned the room, but found no sign of anything hostile and no one else who seemed concerned.

 

        When it appeared that no one else was disturbed about the noise, except possible her uncle who was whispering urgently to a young, bookish looking man in the corner, he relaxed and decided it must have been his imagination.  Willow stepped forward to greet him with a little wave and a ÒHi, Riley,Ó opening up the introductions.

 

         He assumed the older man was BuffyÕs uncle, and was a little surprised by the cultured British accent, but Giles smoothly explained that her mother had come to the US with their parents at a very young age, while he was left in England to attend boarding school.

 

        He vaguely remembered being introduced to Xander and Anya one evening in the Bronze, and saw that his recollection of them as ordinary, boring people was perfectly correct.  He waited for the young man in the corner to come forward, and when he didnÕt, he strode over to him and extended his hand.  Ducking his head shyly, the man introduced himself as BuffyÕs cousin, William. He had a similar accent to her UncleÕs, and Riley assumed he was his son or some close relation. 

 

            At first glance, the much shorter, slim young man appeared very unassuming, soft, light brown curls falling over his forehead, thin, old fashioned looking glasses on his nose, and a younger manÕs version of the tweedy English clothing that BuffyÕs uncle wore.  However, when he took RileyÕs hand to shake it, his grip was very firm, almost to the point of pain and the man found himself squeezing back in the age-old masculine Òmine is bigger than yoursÓ contest.

 

            Just as it appeared they would both give up the appearance of a friendly handshake and begin to try to injure each other in earnest, William grimaced in pain and relaxed his grip with a shrug and an apologetic shrug towards Giles who had been clearing his throat repeatedly.

 

          Ò My apologies, old man.  I certainly didnÕt intend for that to become a test of wills.  IÕve been working on the firmness of my handshake as IÕve been accused of shaking hands like a woman, and IÕve yet to find that line between firm and too hard.Ó

 

            The embarrassed looking young man peered up over his glasses and did his best to appear harmless and sorry.  His other hand still clutched the book heÕd been reading when they came in the door and Riley craned his neck to see what it was.  When he caught the title, ÒSonnets by Elizabeth Barrett BrowningÓ, he laughed and relaxed.

 

          ÒNo problem, man.  Although, IÕve got to tell you, thatÕs quite a grip youÕve got there. I canÕt imagine anyone accusing you of shaking hands like a woman.Ó

 

            Riley turned to walk back to Buffy only to find her standing just inside the door where sheÕd stopped when they came in.  She was staring at her cousin with her mouth hanging open and an expression of profound disbelief on her face.

 

         ÒBuffy?  Are you okay?  WhatÕs wrong?Ó

 

            Buffy continued to stare at her ÒcousinÓ, her mouth opening and closing as she tried to say something coherent.  ÒWhaÉbaÉmumphÉ.gackÓ was the extent of her verbal ability and Giles quickly stepped into the awkward silence that followed her attempt at speech.

 

         ÒI believe Buffy is simply surprised to find William here.  He popped in unexpectedly last night and IÕve had no opportunity to tell her about his arrival.Ó

 

            ÒOh,Ó Riley said dubiously.  He looked at Buffy again, surprised to see that she had shut her mouth and tilted her head as though listening to something he couldnÕt hear.

 

        ÒGet a grip, luv. Come and give your long lost cousin a kiss hello before the overgrown toy soldier suspects something.Ó

 

          Moving like a sleepwalker, Buffy walked toward William and offered her cheek for a chaste kiss.  She tried to ignore the way Spike was clearly inhaling her scent as he put his arms around her in a welcoming hug that stopped just short of going on longer than it needed to.

 

          ÒYou are sooo going to pay for this.Ó she thought at him as hard as she could.  She could tell from the smile he tried to hide that he heard her and she fixed him with a threatening glare before turning around and walking back to Riley.

 

          ÒWell, I guess youÕve met everybody, even some people I didnÕt know you were going to meet,Ó Buffy said, struggling to regain her perkiness.  She walked toward the kitchen, saying she was going to get them drinks and leaving Riley to make conversation with Willow and Giles.

 

         ÒWilliam,Ó she said in her sweetest voice, ÒWhy donÕt you help me in here and we canÉcatch up.Ó

 

         ÒIt would be my pleasure, love,Ó he answered, giving the other people in the room an awkward nod as he started toward the kitchen, tripping over the footstool as he did.

 

         ÒOh dear!  I am so clumsy.  IÕmÉIÕm sorryÉIÕll just beÉÓ He edged his way carefully toward the kitchen, keeping his head down and avoiding eye contact the whole time.

 

         ÒThereÕs something familiar aboutÉWilliam, is it?  I canÕt put my finger on it, I just have the feeling IÕve met him before somewhere.Ó

 

        ÒThat seems unlikely,Ó Giles said flatly.  ÒHe has only been in the country for less than a day.Ó

 

        ÒIf thatÕs true, then how does Buffy know him?  IsnÕt she a California girl, born and bred?Ó

 

         ÒI think they used to travel a lot before her parentÕs divorced and her dad found new ways to spend his money.  She used to go to England every summer.Ó

 

            Willow did her best to contribute to the ÒLetÕs hide the vampire in plain sightÓ game and was very proud of herself when Giles gave her a pleased smile.

 

          ÒYeah,Ó Xander put in, Ònow she just gets to go to LA every summer and meet her dadÕs latest squeeze.Ó

 

           ÒSo, Riley,Ó Giles began in his best surrogate father voice, Òwhat are your plans after you get your degree inÉwhat was it again?Ó

 

           In the kitchen, Buffy was trying desperately to maintain her anger at Spike for being gone in the face of her equally desperate urge to laugh herself silly at his disguise.

 

         The vampire stood in the entrance to the kitchen, watching the play of emotions flow over the SlayerÕs expressive face and grinning from ear to ear.

 

        ÒWhatÕs the matter, pet?  DonÕt know quite how to act around a real gentleman?  Is William a little too proper for you?Ó

 

         ÒIs this what you were like before you were turned?Ó  She tried to stifle the laughter still bubbling in her throat.

 

        ÒIf I say yes, will you lose all respect for me as the Big Bad?Ó

 

        ÒToo late. I lost that when you stopped being able to bite.Ó

 

          His eyes flashed amber for a second; he shrugged and said mildly, ÒI could find other ways to hurt youÉif I wanted to.Ó

 

          She flushed, reminded of the feelings for her that she now knew he was harboring.  Which reminded her of her words the night he left and their effect on him and she looked up quickly and said, ÒSpikeÉwhat I said the other nightÉÓ

 

        ÒForget it, Slayer. You were right.  I had no businessÉyou didnÕt need to know that much about myÉÓ He paused and moved closer to her.  He felt her heart rate increase again and stopped moving, trying to prevent the pain he felt from showing on his face.

 

         ÒI wasnÕt going to touch you, luv,Ó he said softly.  ÒPlease donÕt be afraid of me.Ó

 

        Buffy stared at him in confusion for a second before she realized that he had sensed how her heart sped up when he moved closer.  Even though he was maintaining the barriers between them, there was no mistaking the pain in his voice and she closed the distance between them herself, touching him gently on the arm.

 

        ÒIÕm not afraid of you, Spike.  If youÕd stop deciding when you will and wonÕt let me feel you, youÕd know that.Ó  She looked up at him pleadingly.  ÒI donÕt want to be in your head all the time. And I definitely donÕt want you in mine without my permission, butÉbut weÕre going to have to learn to live with this thing until it goes away.  And I canÕt do that if you keep shutting me out.Ó

 

        ÒDonÕt want to shut you out pet, I just donÕt want a repeat of the other night. I donÕt want you to feel violated.  I would neverÉwouldnÕt force myself on you, luv.  YouÕve got to believe that.Ó

 

          He took the hand that was resting on his arm and raised it to his mouth, planting a light kiss on her knuckles, then turning it over to kiss her palm.  When his soft lips touched the center of her palm and his tongue slid out to caress the sensitive skin there, she gasped and felt moisture seep into her underwear.

 

          ÒNot gonna promise not to try to seduce you, though.Ó He smiled up into her eyes.

 

            Buffy snatched her hand back and tried to hide the effect he was having on her traitorous body.  Before she could come up with an appropriate response, they were interrupted by Anya.  The ex-demon pushed her way into the kitchen and hissed at Buffy.

 

            ÒStop hiding in here with Spike and get out there and do something about your boyfriend.  He keeps staring at me.  What if he figures out I used to be a demon and tries to capture me?  I donÕt want to be experimented on and emasculated like Spike was!Ó

 

            Snickering at SpikeÕs outraged, ÒHey!Ó, Buffy hastened to sooth AnyaÕs fears and send her back out to help keep Riley occupied.

 

         ÒDonÕt be silly, Anya.  YouÕre not a demon anymore, and if you donÕt act like youÕve got something to hide, heÕll never know you were.  HeÕs probably staring at you because youÕre so pretty.Ó

 

        Immediately mollified, the ex-vengeance demon said, ÒOh?  Do you think so? Because I just tried this hair color and I havenÕt decided ifÉÓ As she went on talking more or less to herself, she allowed Buffy to push her out into the living room again.

 

        ÒOkay, 'William', help me carry these drinks out there,Ó Buffy said as she reached into the refrigerator for soft drinks and ice. ÒDo you think you can do that without tripping?Ó

 

        ÒVery funny, pet.  I could, but IÕm not so sure about William.Ó

     

         She rolled her eyes and handed him the ice bucket.  ÒThen I guess youÕd better take something easily cleaned up,Ó she said as she put the cans and glasses on a tray.  ÒLetÕs goÉ.William.Ó

 

            He stopped her with a light touch on her arm.  ÒSo, are we alright, then? YouÕre not still angry at me?Ó  His speech was an interesting mix of his usual lower class cadences and the cultured tones heÕd adopted for his disguise.

 

          ÒOh, IÕm still royally pissed at you,Ó she said with a small smile, Òbut not for what happened the other night.Ó

 

           ÒWhat then?Ó He raised his eyebrows as he followed her out of the room.

 

       ÒFor being gone for four freaking days without letting me know where you were or if you were all right!  For all I knew you were back in the lab being sliced and diced.Ó

 

         BuffyÕs cheery smile at Riley and the Scoobies belied the fury she was sending to the astonished vampire.  When William tripped again and dropped the ice cubes onto the WatcherÕs back, it had nothing to do with his disguise and everything to do with the bolt of joy that went though him as he absorbed her words.

 

        She was worried about me.  The Slayer was worried about meÉ.

 

Chapter Five

 

          While William apologized profusely and scrambled to pick up the ice cubes from the floor and the watcherÕs chair, Riley rolled his eyes and wondered how someone as athletic as Buffy could be related to someone so uncoordinated and clumsy.  He watched idly as the embarrassed young man gathered the ice cubes and carried them out to the kitchen.  When William returned with a fresh bowl minutes later, the other man had completely dismissed him and barely noticed when he sat down in the only vacant seat, next to Buffy.

 

          After some general conversation about Sunnydale, the town, and the University, Willow asked innocently, ÒHow well do you know Professor Walsh, Riley?Ó

 

           He surprised everyone by saying quickly, ÒWell, hardly at all.  I mean I work for her, so obviously I know her, but not well.  No, not well.  I hardly see her outside of class.  No more than you do, probably.  Why do you ask?Ó

 

         His nervous, and clearly dishonest, response set off alarms bells for both Giles and Spike.  Their eyes met briefly, and in response to GilesÕ raised eyebrow the vampire nodded briefly, indicating that the manÕs increased breathing and heart rate indicated he was lying.  It occurred to Giles that having a vampire around to assist with interrogations, especially surreptitious ones, could be a good thing.  He also reminded himself not to play poker with the canny vamp.

 

         ÒDid you catch that, pet?   The wanker is lying through his teeth.Ó

 

        ÒSo it seems.Ó

 

        Spike frowned at the slight tone of regret in her voice.  Is she starting to like the git? Has she forgotten what he is?   He barely controlled his possessive growl as his demon reacted to the thought of his mate being interested in anyone else.  He forced the demon back down and made sure his jealous urge wasnÕt projected to Buffy.

 

          ÒHe is one of them, Slayer.  I recognize his scent.  He was definitely there the other nightÓ

 

           Buffy didnÕt answer him, but she shifted around in her seat so as to be facing Riley and asked him with feigned indifference, ÒWhy were you so curious about my martial arts training, Riley?  Are you interested in things like that?Ó

 

           Startled, he blurted out without thinking,  ÒYes, IÕm a bit of an expert myself.  I was the leadingÉÓ Recovering himself, he quickly amended, Òbut you donÕt want to hear about me, letÕs talk about your training.  What have you studied?Ó

 

       ÒStaking 101, Advanced beheading, Demon pummeling, Save-the-World 203ÉÓ

 

         Spike smothered a laugh when Buffy punched him on the leg, then blushed when everyone looked at her curiously. 

 

        ÒHas William done something to anger you, Buffy?Ó her watcher inquired with a warning glare.

 

         ÒUh, no, no.  My hand fell asleep and I was just shaking it out.  It was an accident.Ó  She turned to Spike and rubbed his thigh gently,  ÒIÕm sorry William, Ò she said sweetly, ÒI didnÕt hurt you, did I?Ó

 

         The vampire hissed at the heat from her hand on his leg and shifted to hide his immediate reaction. 

 

        ÒNo, thatÕs quite all right, luv.  You just go back to your conversation about your barbaric hobby.Ó  He gave a shudder that caused Riley to roll his eyes again and everyone else, including Giles to have to hide smiles.  ÒPerhaps heÕd like to, oh dear, what is that word? To train with you sometime.  What do you call it? Sparring?  Yes, perhaps he would spar with you.Ó  He bestowed a proud smile on Buffy and said to the astonished man, ÒBuffy is quite good, you know.  Amazing, actually.  If you like that sort of thing.Ó

 

        ÒYes, IÕm sure she is,Ó Riley said with a hard look at the embarrassed girl.  

 

         ÒI am soooo going to kill you.Ó

 

       ÒYou keep telling yourself that, pet, and maybe youÕll come to believe it.Ó

 

         Deciding he wasnÕt going to learn any more about Buffy from the very strange people she hung out with, Riley reached for her hand and turned to Xander and Anya.

 

       ÒI thought weÕd finish our evening by spending some time in the Bronze.  Would you guys like to join us?Ó he addressed Xander and Anya, but turned to include Willow and William in his question.

 

        ÒOh yes!Ó  Anya spoke up quickly.  Ò Going to the Bronze.  Just the thing an average human couple would do on a weekend night.  We would do that.  We do things like go to the Bronze all the time!  WeÕre very normal that way.Ó

 

         Xander quickly grabbed his girlfriend and hustled her into the kitchen to explain why referring to themselves as an average HUMAN couple might not have been the best way to avoid suspicion about her ex demon status.

 

        Willow and Spike exchanged looks and he gave her a wink and a shrug as he said, ÒWell, if thatÕs acceptable to Ms Rosenberg, I mightÉthatÕs if Uncle Rupert doesnÕt mind my running off on my first night in his home?Ó

 

          ÒOh, please,Ó Giles said, ÒBy all means, youÉyoung people should go out and enjoy yourselves.  We have all day tomorrow to visit.Ó

 

          ÒWell, thatÕs settled then.  WeÕll hit the Bronze for some music and liquid refreshment.Ó  Riley pulled Buffy to her feet and steered her toward the door.  ÒWeÕll just go get my car and be right back.Ó

 

         ÒUh, why donÕt I wait here for you?Ó Buffy looked up at him appealingly and pointed to her very high-heeled shoes.

 

         ÒOh, okay, sure.  IÕll be right back.Ó  He went out the door, pulling it quietly shut behind him.  Instead of heading for his car, he paused outside the door and looked around, spotting a window that was slightly ajar and moving closer to it.

 

         ÒSo, Miss Rosenberg, you and I?  Are you sure you donÕt mind?  IÕm not really much of a club goer.  I much prefer to spend my time in the libraryÉÓ As he spoke, Spike was gesturing with his eyes and head toward the window and understanding slowly spread across everyoneÕs face. 

 

          Everyone except Xander who started, ÒTaking this a little too much to heart, arenÕt you,  dea-Ò  He was mercifully cut off by AnyaÕs hand on his mouth.  When she was sure he was not going to continue, she removed her hand remarking, ÒIÕve been wanting to do that for a long time.  Now you know how it feels, Xander.Ó

 

         ÒSpike?  Is he out there? Listening to us?Ó  The anger came through loud and clear and he had to smile.

 

         He just nodded and held his hand to his ear and cocked his head as though he was listening.  Again, Giles was reminding of the value of having vampiric enhancements when dealing with humans.

 

        ÒWell, he seems nice enough, Buffy.  Have long did you say youÕve been seeing him?Ó

 

         ÒThis is our first actual, night-time date.  We usually meet for coffee or lunch.  He took me on a picnic last week,Ó she added brightly.  ÒThat was fun.Ó

 

         ÒRather a large fellow, isnÕt he, pet?Ó  William put in with a roll of his eyes.

 

        ÒYes, heÕs very big and strong,Ó Buffy chirped, giving the vampire a glare.  ÒI like that in a man.Ó

 

            No one but Buffy noticed the vampireÕs eyes flash amber for a second and she stuck her tongue out at him.

 

          ÒThat meant as an invitation, pet?Ó

 

         ÒNope, just my way of dissing you.Ó  She took the sting out of her thought by smiling at him and was rewarded with a genuine, non-smirking smile in return.

 

            Fortunately the other people in the room were all trying to maintain a conversation about the band at the Bronze, primarily for RileyÕs benefit, and no one noticed the silent by-play between Slayer and vampire.

 

            When Spike nodded his head and said, ÒOkay, heÕs out of human earshot now – wait!Ó He stopped everyone and ran to the open window, leaning out to hear what Riley was saying and to whom.

 

            He turned around, looking much more like Spike wearing glasses than William at that moment.

 

            ÒThe bloody wanker is talkinÕ to someone about Buffy on a cell phone,Ó he snarled.  ÒSayinÕ heÕll take her to the Bronze and they can ÔobserveÕ her there.Ó

 

            ÒDear lord!Ó  Giles frowned and took off his glasses.  ÒPerhaps you shouldnÕt go Buffy.Ó

 

            ÒRelax, Giles. IÕll be fine.  So they ÔobserveÕ me – what are they gonna see?  Buffy dancing?  Buffy having fun?  Nothing demony or Slayerish.  And, anyway, IÕll have all my friends around.  What are they gonna do to me with four other people around?

 

           ÒConsidering that the only one of those four who would be of much assistance in a struggle with someone RileyÕs size is not able to harm humans, I would guess they could do whatever they wanted.Ó

 

            ÒWeÕll be fine, Giles.  ItÕs not like theyÕre going to kidnap me from a public place for heavenÕs sake.Ó

 

            She stuck her lower lip out in a pout that made Spike groan to himself.

 

           ÒAnd, anyway, I kicked their butts before and I can do it again.Ó

 

           ÒYes, well, you had surprise on your side that time.  Just be sure you do not go anywhere by yourself.  Or allow Riley to get you alone.  And, please. Call me when you are safely home.Ó

                 

                 The sound of car horn beeping cheerfully outside ended the discussion and with a, ÒSee you later, G-Man,Ó from Xander, they all walked out to get into the large SUV the commando was driving.  Before Riley could get out and come around to open the door for Buffy, William had already opened it and handed her into the large vehicle.  He closed the door with a wink at the astonished Slayer and squeezed into the back with the Scoobies.

 

          He never took his eyes off Riley on the drive to the club, only speaking when the big man went to put his arm across the back of the seat so that he could touch BuffyÕs hair. 

 

          Swallowing his growl, William said in his most unassuming and worried voice, ÒWouldnÕt it be better to keep both hands on the wheel, Mr. Finn?  Just for safetyÕs sake?Ó

 

           ÒDonÕt worry, William,Ó he replied expansively,  ÒIÕve been driving for years.  And itÕs not like Sunnydale has all that much traffic.Ó

 

         He left his arm where it was, but quit trying to reach Buffy who had slid over toward the window as far as her seat belt would let her.  She risked one look into the back seat, but the eyes behind WilliamÕs glasses were uncomfortably warm and she quickly faced front again.

 

           This is going to be an interesting night, she sighed to herself.  She took another quick peek at Spike to see if she had unintentionally sent that thought out, but he didnÕt seem to have noticed.

 

           Maybe IÕm getting the hang of this stuff, she though proudly, only to be rudely disillusioned when she heard, ÒAnd maybe IÕm just ignoring you, pet.  ÔS not like your thoughts are all that interestinÕÓ

 

           ÒScrew you, SpikeÓ She regretted immediately her choice of comeback, but instead of the off-color reply she was expecting all she got was a sense of great amusement from the vampire.  Face flaming, she shut down her thoughts as much as possible for the rest of the ride.

 

          When they had reached the Bronze and Riley had put the huge vehicle into one of the parking places outside, William threw open his door and promptly fell out onto the asphalt.  With an embarrassed whimper, he rubbed his knee as he stood up and opened BuffyÕs door for her. 

 

         ÒCome, love.  Let me help you down from there.  ItÕs quite a drop to the ground.Ó

 

          Buffy rolled her eyes at him, but took his offered hand and stepped daintily to the ground beside him.  He held her fingers just a bit longer than necessary, but let go as soon as Riley came around the side of the car.  He firmly suppressed his growl when Riley took BuffyÕs tiny hand in his large one and led her toward the door, not bothering to look back to see if her friends were keeping up.

 

           The three Scoobies and William followed the pair in front of them, trailing them to a table near the dance floor.  A table that was conveniently vacated just as they came in, by four athletic looking young men with military haircuts.  Spike caught the exchange of glances between Riley and one of the men, and made sure to memorize their faces.

 

            As they took their seats, William made sure he was seated where he could see Buffy and Riley.  He clumsily pulled out a chair for Willow, almost dumping her on the floor as he went to push it in.

 

            ÒYou donÕt have to be so convincing that you kill me,Ó she hissed at him as she grabbed the sides of chair to keep from falling off.

 

             ÒSorry, Red,Ó he whispered.  ÒWilliamÕs just not very comfortable around ladies.Ó

 

            When the drink orders were taken, William gazed longingly at the long necked beer bottles being carried past their table, but forced himself to order a soft drink, insisting that,  ÒI have absolutely no head for alcoholic beverages.  I become quite rowdy when I drink.  I certainly wouldnÕt want to take a chance on embarrassing any of these ladies with my behavior.Ó

 

            Willow and Buffy, both of whom had seen Spike drunk on more than one occasion, smothered their laughter with simultaneous coughing, causing Riley to look at them curiously.

 

           With drinks dispersed around the table and the band beginning to warm up, the small group settled back to enjoy themselves as much as was possible for a group of individuals all trying to pretend to be something they werenÕt.

 

Chapter Six

 

         As the band began to play, Anya grabbed Xander and pulled him onto the dance floor leaving Buffy and Spike, Willow, and the secret commando to stare uncomfortably at each other.

 

         ÒDo you dance, William?Ó Buffy asked with a sly grin, hoping to embarrass the vampire.

 

         Right on cue, William ducked his head shyly and raked at the soft curls falling over his forehead as he fumbled for something to say.  He looked at Willow pleadingly as he stammered, ÒIÉOf course, I was taught the proper steps for dancing with a lady when I wasÉthat is, IÕve been taught how to dance, but IÕm afraid I am not very good at it.  And this,Ó he waved his hand at the gyrating bodies on the dance floor in front of them, Òthis is not something IÕve ever even attempted.Ó

 

         ÒOh? Well I think you should,Ó Buffy responded with an evil look in her eye.  ÒWillow?  WouldnÕt you like to dance?Ó

 

          ÒWha?  Me?  With S-William?Ó  Her friends eyes were open so wide Buffy was afraid they would fall out.

 

         ÒSure. You.  You donÕt mind dancing with my cousin, do you?  He doesnÕt get to meet many American girls and this may be his only chance to dance with one.Ó

 

          ÒI know one thatÕs going to be ÔdancingÕ with me as soon as get this soddinÕ chip out, SlayerÓ came the angry growl in her head.

 

          ÒCome on, whatÕs so hard about it?  You can dance with Willow a little bit. It wonÕt kill youÉoh thatÕs right, youÕre already dead.Ó  BuffyÕs internal giggle made him smile in spite of himself.

 

         ÒJusÕ remember, paybackÕs a bitch, luv.Ó he sent back as he offered Willow his hand and escorted the nervous witch to the floor.

 

          ÒRelax, Red, I canÕt bite you anymore.  AnÕ dancinÕ with me canÕt be any worse than dancinÕ with the whelp.  In fact, IÕd imitate his style, if he actually had one.Ó

 

           With WillowÕs embarrassed reluctance to dance with a vampire, and WilliamÕs obvious lack of comfort with the heavy beat of the music, they made an amusing couple to watch.  Riley was openly sneering at WilliamÕs timid attempts to move with the music without actually moving any body parts besides his feet, and Buffy felt a protective bolt of anger go through her before she remembered that William was not really her cousin and didnÕt need her to worry about his feelings.

 

          When RileyÕs sneer had almost turned to outright laughter, and Buffy could see Willow redden with embarrassment while William just looked more and more lost, she had had all she could take of RileyÕs attitude toward her friends.  She took his hand, and with a yank that barely concealed her Slayer strength, she pulled him onto the dance floor and began to move around him.

 

         As she had suspected, the big manÕs amusement at Willow and William was because he, himself, had absolutely no sense of rhythm or timing.  While Buffy moved around him, her body responding almost unconsciously to the music, he stood in place and jerked his arms around, trying to look like he was enjoying the beat that he obviously didnÕt hear.

 

         He breathed a sigh of relief when the band switched to a slow tune and he could pull Buffy into his arms and just sway in one place with her.  Of course that meant her face was mashed into his chest and she couldnÕt see anything but the buttons on his shirt.  Which was just as well, as William and Willow were attempting to move around the dance floor without tripping each other, to the great amusement of both Riley and the four commandos leaning on the bar.

 

         ÒIf you step on my feet one more time, I am going to turn you into a toad,Ó the red-haired witch growled into WilliamÕs ear.

 

         ÒSorry, pet.  JusÕ tryinÕ to make it look good for the peanut gallery over there.  IÕll be more careful.  DonÕt fancy being a toad just now.Ó

 

         There was a subtle shift in his demeanor and suddenly, although he still held her awkwardly, he was no longer treading on her feet and they were no longer bumping into other couples as they moved around the floor.  She just had time to register that Spike appeared to be quite a good dancer, when they crashed, quite hard, into another couple and she heard him apologizing profusely.

 

        ÒOh, I am so sorry, Mr. Finn, Buffy.  IÕm so clumsy.  Please forgive me.  I hope we didnÕt hurt anyone?Ó

 

         Riley glared back at him briefly, then relaxed and laughed.  ÒNo problem, William.  You just pushed us a little closer together.  CanÕt complain about that now, can I?  Not with something as beautiful as Buffy in my arms.Ó

 

        The fact that he referred to Buffy as something, rather than someone, was not lost on the three people watching him.  Nor was the possessive way he held her against him and stroked her back.

 

        Biting back the snarl that threatened to break out of his throat, William smiled shyly and suggested,  ÒPerhaps Ms. Rosenberg would like a break from my abuse of her feet and we could switch partners for the next song.  If my cousin is willing to risk her own toes, that is?Ó  He gave Buffy a shy sweet smile that had her responding in spite of herself.

 

        ÒOh, IÕd love to, William.  You donÕt mind, do you, Riley?Ó She turned to her date with a smile.

 

        ÒHuh?  No, of course not, Buffy.  You and your cousin go dance and Willow and I will get to know each other better.Ó

 

        Riley spent several minutes trying to figure out how to dance with Willow so that he could talk to her about Buffy without causing her a serious neck injury and he missed the first few minutes of William and BuffyÕs dancing.  When he finally sorted out the best way to be able to talk to Willow, seem to be dancing, and keep an eye on Buffy at the same time, he almost tripped as he spotted the blond duo.

 

        Contrary to the awkward and self conscious way William had been dancing with Willow, he and Buffy were moving together in perfect rhythm, twirling and dipping as the music called for it.  Just as the music slowed down to a very romantic and lush section, Riley lost sight of the two cousins.  Even with his height, he couldnÕt see over the crowd between them to follow what they were doing.

 

        What they were doing was swaying together on the other side of the club, as far away from Riley and the Scoobies as Spike could get them.  When he was sure no one could see them anymore, he wrapped his arms around BuffyÕs waist and pulled her unresisting body closer.  She rested her head on his shoulder and slid her arms up to wrap around his neck as her body nestled into his as though it belonged there.

 

        Neither was willing to break the spell by talking, so they just let themselves get lost in the music, forgetting for a few precious moments that they were Slayer and vampire.  And forgetting that there were four other people in the club whose job it was to watch Buffy.   At the end of the bar, Graham craned his neck to keep them in sight, frowning slightly at their seeming involvement.

 

        Although none of RileyÕs friends were particularly happy that heÕd taken such an interest in the strange little blonde, GrahamÕs loyalty to his friend caused a stab of anger when he saw her dancing so closely with the dorky-looking man who had come in with them.  He relaxed when the slow song ended and they broke apart, both looking slightly embarrassed about their previous closeness.

 

        Buffy broke the awkward silence first, saying with a reddened face, ÒThat wasÉyouÕre actually are a very good dancerÉIÉI liked it.Ó

 

        ÒMe, too, love,Ó he said softly.  ÒCould have stayed like that all night.Ó

 

        Any further conversation was drowned out as the band went back into another song with a pounding beat and Buffy began moving her body to the music.  Before she could stop him, WilliamÕs hands were on her hips and he was matching her move for move as he danced behind her.  Every shift of her hips brought her ass into contact with his body and it wasnÕt long before she could feel the proof of what he whispered that she was doing to him.

 

        Buffy pulled away and spun around to face him, still dancing, but keeping her distance.  ÒStop that!Ó  She glared at him.  ÒWilliam would never behave like that!Ó

 

        He laughed, and reached for her again as he said, ÒYou got that right, pet. That ponce wouldnÕt have known what to do with a girl like you.Ó

 

        She danced just out of reach of his hands and studied him speculatively.

 

        ÒIs that what you were like before you were turned?  Is William really you?Ó

 

        ÒWhat? Me?  A light weight like that?  Are you crazy, Slayer?  You know IÕve always been bad.Ó   He gave her his most evil leer, but Buffy could see the panic behind his eyes.

 

         ÒMethinks the gentleman doth protest too much,Ó she snarked at him aloud, putting her hands on her hips.  ÒIÕll bet thatÕs exactly what you were like.  No wonder you like being a vampire so much!  IÕll bet guys like Riley picked on you all the time.  DidnÕt they?Ó

 

        ÒYou donÕt know what youÕre talkingÕ about, Slayer,Ó he growled.  ÒI donÕt take anything off wankers like that and you know it.Ó

 

        ÒNot now, you donÕtÉdidnÕtÉbefore yourÉdisability, anyway.  But what about when you were human?  When you were a sweet, gentle man who read poetry and wore glasses?  Huh?  What about then, Spike?Ó

 

             ÒI never!   You donÕt know what youÕre talkinÕ ab—wait, did you just say I was sweet?Ó

 

         ÒI said William was a sweet man.Ó She struggled to control the rush of color to her face and the increase in her heart rate.  ÒYouÕre just pretending to be him. ArenÕt you?Ó she asked almost pleadingly.

 

         ÒOf course I am, pet.  You know me.  Big Bad, evil undead, just waiting to get this thing out of my head to go back to my killinÕ ways.Ó

 

        ÒYeah,Ó she said quietly.  ÒThatÕs what I thought.  I almost forgot for a few minutes,Ó she added so softly he wasnÕt sure he heard her. ÒSilly me.Ó

 

           She turned and began walking back toward the table where Riley waited with undisguised impatience.

 

            ÒBuffyÉÓ

 

           ÒDonÕt, Spike.  JustÉdonÕt.Ó

 

Chapter Seven

 

              The whole time Buffy and William were dancing, in addition to trying to watch them, Riley was grilling Willow about how well she knew her friend and if she had noticed anything ÒunusualÓ about her. Willow, never a good liar, was doing her best to field his questions with more questions of her own.

 

              ÒGee, Riley, thatÕs a funny thing to ask about someone youÕre dating. If you thought she was strange, why would you ask her out?Ó

 

                ÒI didnÕt mean strange in a bad way, Willow. I just meantÉis she stronger than normal? Maybe she runs faster? Does she believe in vampires?Ó

 

               ÒWell, she runs faster than I do!Ó Willow responded brightly. ÒBut then, my five year old cousin runs faster than I do, soÉÓ She tried to ignore the vampire comment, and Riley wisely didnÕt pursue it.

 

                ÒWilliam seems to have discovered his dancing gene,Ó he commented dryly, watching the two ÔcousinsÕ moving gracefully around the floor.

 

                ÒYeah, well, Buffy can do that to a guy. SheÕs a really, really good dancer and she makes the guy look good. Even somebody like William can look good if heÕs dancing with Buffy,Ó she said cheerfully, not having noticed what a terrible dancer Riley was when he was with Buffy.

 

                ÒApparently so,Ó he grumbled, leading Willow back to the table. ÒI donÕt dance like that with MY cousins, Ò he muttered as he yanked a chair out for Willow.

 

                As Buffy approached the table, he watched her work her way gracefully across the crowded dance floor and wondered what it was about the girl that attracted him so. Yes, she was pretty, and obviously very athletic if her actions the other night were to be considered; and, despite her lack of attention sometimes in class, he thought she was very bright, but there was something about herÉsomething almost otherworldly, that drew him.

 

          She canÕt be a demon. SheÕs just tooÉpureÉtoo full of light. But, somethingÕs not quite right, there. IÕve got to find out what it is before Maggie goes into ÒLetÕs cut it up and see what it isÓ mode.

 

               Buffy gave Riley a plastered-on smile and sat down beside him with a sigh. She looked back toward the dance floor, but there was no sign of William and she briefly worried before she remembered he wasnÕt actually a timid bookworm who was unfamiliar with Sunnydale. Although, he IS still kinda helpless if somebody picks a fight with him.

 

                Shoving worry about William to the back of her mind, she turned to her date and tried to answer his implied question.

 

                   ÒWilliam seemed to pick up some pretty amazing dancing skills when he left Willow for youÉÓ The jealousy and suspicion were palpable.

 

               Buffy shot a panicked look at Willow before replying, ÒUh, yeah. See, the thing is, William isnÕt really as clumsy as he seems to be. HeÕs just really, reallyÉlacking in self-confidence around girls.Ó She ignored Willows attempt to muffle a snort of laughter. ÒBut since IÕm related to him, and weÕve danced together before, he doesnÕt get all left-footed and tongue-tied around me. ItÕs a family thing, I guess.Ó She blushed prettily. ÒI get sort of tongue-tied and clumsy around guys IÉlike.Ó

 

                 Riley fixed her with an intense, but hopeful stare. ÒIÕd like to think that explains some of things you say and do around me,Ó he said carefully.

 

             Deciding sheÕd lied quite enough for one evening, Buffy settled for ducking her head and looking embarrassed, hoping he would take that for an answer. It must have worked, as he beamed at her and put his big arm across the back of her chair.

 

                   Sticking to safe subjects like Sunnydale U. and the various courses available there, they were able to manage several minutes of actual, non-probing conversation before Xander and Anya returned to the table. Xander tried to catch BuffyÕs eye as he said carefully, ÒBuff? Think you might want to check on William. HeÕs having a bit of a problem.Ó

 

               Her head flew up and she sat up straight. ÒProblem? What kind of problem?Ó

 

              ÒFour problems, actually. Four, large, muscular problems.Ó

 

             ÒSomebodyÕs picking onÉWilliam?Ó She rose to her feet, only to be stopped by RileyÕs hand on her arm.

 

               In a deceptively mild tone he asked, ÒWhy didnÕt you stop it, Xander? Why come and get Buffy? Surely you donÕt expect a small girl to intervene?Ó

 

               XanderÕs Òdeer in headlightsÓ look lasted until, with a disgusted snort, Anya said, ÒOf course, he came to get Buffy. ItÕs her cousin, after all. And she can-Ò

 

                 Recovering himself quickly, the boy interrupted, ÒYeah, the thing is? The Buffster? SheÕs got this real knack ofÉcalming people down, you know? They just kind ofÉback offÉwhen she gets involved.Ó

 

                  Standing up to loom over her, Riley said, ÒWell, you arenÕt going off alone to break up a fight on my watch. Where are they, Xander?Ó

 

              He pointed silently toward the hallway where the restrooms were located and trailed behind as Buffy and Riley moved quickly in that direction. They arrived to find William crouched against the wall, holding his hands over his face defensively. Surrounding him were the four commandos that had been watching all night. One of them sported a swelling eye and another was nursing a bruised hand as they advanced on the cowering man.

 

             ÒWhat the hell is going on here?Ó BuffyÕs voice was not what you would expect from a frightened coed. There was no scream, no shout for the bouncers, not even, if appeared, any real concern for the welfare of her cousin. There was just cold steel that demanded an answer.

 

             Riley looked angrily over her head at his men and added his, ÒAn explanation would be really good right now.Ó

 

             ÒWe were just watching your back, Finn,Ó the one with the blackened eye grumbled. ÒWe thought he was getting a little too friendly with your girl friend there, so we decided to scare him. The asshole swung on me so we had to rough him up a little.Ó

 

               ÒHeÕs her cousin, you morons,Ó Riley glared at the surprised men. ÒTheyÕre supposed to be friendly.Ó

 

                 Buffy felt a stab of guilt at RileyÕs defense of their deception, but then she looked at William, sliding fearfully along the wall in her direction and got over it.

 

               ÒWhat did you do to him?Ó she asked, pulling the cringing man behind her.

 

              ÒAnd why didnÕt you tell me something was happeningÓ

 

               ÒDidnÕt want to blow your cover, pet. I had it under control.Ó

 

                ÒNothing,Ó Graham replied, nursing his hand. ÒWe just pushed him around a little and said we were going to take him outside. Then he went nuts on us and tried to get away and when we stopped him, he hit Forrest in the eye.Ó

 

                   Buffy shot Spike a surprised look, wondering why he wasnÕt on the ground in pain from his head, but he indicated the blood trickling from his split lip and she understood that the commandos had assumed his pain was from the retaliatory punch.

 

                ÒSo, he tried to get away from you, you manhandled him, he tried to fight back and you hit him? Do I have that quite right, guys?Ó BuffyÕs expression belied the cheery tone of her voice and suddenly they all remembered what had happened to them the last time theyÕd tangled with her over someone she was protecting.

 

              Behind her back, William was peering fearfully at the large angry men being faced down by a small girl. Spike was sorely tempted to stick his tongue out at them, but smothered the urge as something William would never do. He settled for getting as close to Buffy as he could and glaring at them over her head.

 

                Riley stepped between the angry Slayer and his men, saying, ÒBuffy, why donÕt you take William back to the table and get some ice on that lip while I talk to these guys? Obviously this was a misunderstanding of some sort and I think I can straighten it out.Ó

 

                   Giving the men one last glare, Buffy took WilliamÕs arm and began walking away with him. She didnÕt let go of him until they got back to the table, where she fished some ice out of her glass and rubbed it gently on his rapidly swelling lip.

 

                   If the Scoobies were surprised at her solicitous behavior, they didnÕt say anything. They attributed it to play acting for RileyÕs sake as he made his way back to the table.

 

               ÒWhat the hell were you doin, going off by yourself like that? They might have really hurt you.Ó Along with the residual anger, there was an edge of concern that she didnÕt try to hide.

 

             ÒThey were just tryinÕ to scare me, pet. If I hadnÕt whacked one accidentally, they probably wouldnÕt have touched me. You should have let it go. Thought for a minute there you were gonna go all Slayer on them in public.Ó The warmth, gratitude, and fear for her that accompanied his thought was strong enough to make her hand shake slightly.

 

             ÒI guess thatÕs all I can do for that lip. YouÕll be okay tomorrow.Ó

       

            ÒIÕll be fine, love. ItÕs already startinÕ to heal...unless you want to kiss it betterÉ?Ó

 

            ÒYou wish!Ó She gave him a push on his shoulder and moved away quickly.

 

             ÒYou know I do, pet.Ó

 

                 RileyÕs arrival back at the table put an end to the private conversation before she had to respond and Buffy quickly focused on the other man.

 

                ÒSo, what was that all about?Ó she demanded, hands on hips. ÒWhat will William think of Americans now?Ó

 

                 Riley blew out his breath and readied his explanation. ÒThose are some of myÉfraternity brothers. They didnÕt know who William was and they thought theyÕd try to discourage him from any thoughts ofÉThey just thought they were helping me out, thatÕs all.Ó He turned to William. ÒIÕm sorry, William. I hope they didnÕt hurt you badly. Or frighten you too much,Ó he added, barely smothering a smile.

 

             Buffy felt the surge of anger that went through Spike, but William replied meekly, ÒNo, no. IÕm quite used to beingÉbullied, actually. IÕm usually better than that at getting myself out of such situations without harm. IÕm grateful that you and Buffy stepped in, though. IÕm afraid I may have made them very angry when I accidentally hit that unpleasant man. ThereÕs no telling what they might have done to me.Ó

 

                 ÒSomehow, I think they wouldÕve been extremely sorry if they had,Ó he replied with a speculative look at Buffy. ÒYour cousin seems quiteÉprotective of the defenseless.Ó

 

               Everyone tensed as Riley came so close to describing such a big part of a SlayerÕs mission, but William snorted and said, ÒWell, yes, when we were children if she wasnÕt pummeling me herself, she was taking up for me when someone else tried to.Ó

 

                 ÒYep,Ó Buffy said with a glare in his direction, ÒNobody hits William except for me. ThatÕs the way itÕs always been.Ó

 

                ÒAn interesting relationship.Ó

 

               He smiled at Buffy to show he was kidding, so missed the flashes of amusement that went across the face of the Scoobies.

 

               ÒDoesnÕt know the half of it, does he, pet?Ó

 

               Buffy didnÕt answer him, but had to duck her head to hide her grin and he smirked in spite of himself. He was quickly back to being William as Willow stood up and said, ÒItÕs getting late. I guess weÕd better be getting backÉÓ

 

              ÒBack? Back to where?Ó Riley was genuinely puzzled. ÒSurely, you donÕt all live with BuffyÕs uncle? Willow, I know you live in the dorm. WonÕt you want to be going there?Ó

 

              As he spoke, it occurred to him she might have been planning to go home with William so as to give Buffy and him some privacy. The idea that anyone would want to spend time alone with the wimpy William was so ludicrous he didnÕt even consider it. Even a bookworm like Willow could do better than BuffyÕs cousin.

 

                 ÒBut, IÕll be happy to take all of you back there before I take Buffy home, if thatÕs what you want.Ó He spoke up quickly before Willow could change her mind.

 

               ÒNo, I think Willow just meant we need to get William back to GilesÕ before she comes back to the dorm with me. ThatÕs what you meant, isnÕt it, Willow?Ó

 

                BuffyÕs eyes were sending very clear signals, and remembering GilesÕ admonishment that she wasnÕt to be left alone with Riley, Willow quickly corrected herself.

 

                ÒOh, yes! ThatÕs what I meant. WeÕll take William home, and then youÕll take me back to the dorm, and since thatÕs where Buffy lives too, weÕll all be where we need to beÉÓ She let her voice trail off when she realized she was starting to babble.

 

                 Trying to hide his disappointment, Riley sighed and began to herd them toward the door.

 

               ÒAll right. WeÕll drop William off at his uncleÕs and Xander and Anya at his house, and then IÕll take you girls back to the dorm.Ó

 

               The ride to GilesÕ apartment was made in silence as everyone was afraid to say what he or she was really thinking. If Riley seriously wanted to take Buffy away, there wasnÕt going to be much Willow could do about it.

 

              ÒIf he does anything to make you at all nervous, pet, you holler. Got it?Ó

 

               ÒSo you can do what? Scold him to death?Ó

 

              He tried to smother the hurt her words caused, but the apologetic look she sent toward him told him sheÕd felt it.

 

             ÒJusÕ sayinÕ, pet. WeÕve got this thing, might as well use it. Consider me your 911.Ó

 

             ÒYeah, I canÕt wait to hear you explain to Giles why you know whatÕs going on with me when IÕm not there. I donÕt think youÕll be real helpful with that stake in your chest.Ó

 

               The wave of gratitude she sent him took the sting out of her words and he agreed ruefully.

 

               ÒGood point. Pun not intended. Not saying IÕm gonna tell him how I know. IÕll think of something if I need to. SomethinÕ that wonÕt get me dusted.Ó

 

            They pulled up in front of the apartment complex and Buffy sat in the passenger seat while Xander and Anya and William got out. Xander thanked Riley for the ride and said he lived close enough for them to walk home. He and Anya waved and began the short walk to the HarrisÕs house.

 

              ÒWill they be all right?Ó Riley inquired. ÒWalking home at night like that?Ó

 

              ÒOh yes. Xander grew up in Sunnydale. He knows how to avoid theÉbad neighborhoods.Ó

 

              William stood outside the big vehicle, shuffling his feet and looking around apprehensively.