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Overcome by flibble
 
Chapter One
 
Chapter One

Buffy almost laughed at the ridiculous sounds she made as she faked her orgasm. “Oh yes, I’m coming,” she moaned, hoping she didn’t sound too sarcastic. Almost before the words were finished leaving her mouth Riley came with a polite grunt and rolled off her. Disposing of the used condom, he drew her into his arms for the requisite two-minute cuddle before he began to snore softly.

Being careful not to wake him Buffy eased out of the bed and dressed quickly. She wasn’t the least bit sleepy and she knew if she stayed here she’d only end up analysing her relationship with Riley all night and be cranky in the morning.

Pausing at the door she took a last look at his sleeping form and frowned slightly. She had to get out of here!

Strolling out of the building she couldn’t help but ruminate on her recent behaviour. Or misbehaviour as the case may be. She never would have believed that she would be the type to fake orgasms. All the magazines said that was a bad idea. Bad Buffy!

The trouble was, lately when they made love it was too much like…well…making love. It was gentle and romantic and tender and driving her crazy! It just didn’t excite her the way it used to. When she’d tried to spice things up a bit Riley had been appalled that she would want him to be a little less tender.

“But I love you Buffy,” he had stated, gazing at her adoringly. “I could never treat you like that.”

Soon after that she’d pretty much stopped coming altogether. He’d been very concerned and tried very hard to make things better. He’d taken extra time kissing and caressing her body, his hands travelling softly over her smooth skin. He’d whispered loving words in her ear about how beautiful she was and how much he wanted her. Before long she’d felt like screaming, “For God’s sake just throw me against the wall and fuck me!”

Finally she’d forced a couple of breathy groans, squeezed her internal muscles a few times and gone limp. She figured he was convinced when she saw the big grin on his face. Partly relieved, but mostly smug. After that it had just seemed easier to throw a repeat performance then risk the worried looks and questions again.

“And now look at me,” she thought dejectedly, “I haven’t come in over a month and my boyfriend thinks I’m deliriously happy.”

Stomping across the campus Buffy prayed a vampire would turn up so she could release some of the tension in her body. She was pleasantly surprised when her spider-sense told her that her prayer had been answered. Slowing down Buffy slid a stake out from the waistband of her pants and waited for the creature to approach her from behind. A slight smirk tugged at the corners of her mouth as she anticipated the coming fight.

“Hello cutie.”

Even as Buffy rolled her eyes she felt her heartbeat quicken. She turned to face her peroxide blonde nemesis with a satisfied grin. “Glad you could make it Spike.”

Spike cocked his head slightly, obviously bewildered at her statement. In that moment Buffy attacked, catching him with an upper cut to the jaw, followed by a solid fist to the stomach.

Recovering quickly Spike blocked her next punch, and backhanded her across the face.

As the fight intensified Buffy had to stop herself from laughing out loud at the utter joy of her release. She had expected to have to settle for toying with a couple of fledglings before sending them to their dusty fate. But the moment she'd heard Spike’s sexy British drawl she’d known she was in for a true battle between warriors. No holding back, no quarter given. He was her match in every way. He was not disappointing her tonight.

Again and again they came together in violence. Adrenaline rushed through her veins as she hit, dodged, blocked and kicked. She reacted to his slightest movement, every one of her senses focused on his graceful body. Suddenly he surprised her by dropping swiftly and kicking her legs out from under her.

Landing hard, she had little time to recover before he covered her with his body. He pinned her down, capturing her wrists above her head with one hand. The other hand he used to brush stray hairs from her face.

“So, sweet Slayer, at last the time comes for me to taste you.”

He expected to see fear widening her eyes. Instead lust flashed in their clear green depths and he sucked in a harsh breath as his already aroused body responded in kind.

Buffy used his momentary distraction to flip them over. Crawling up his body she straddled his hips and raised her stake overhead with both hands in preparation for the final blow.

The tip of the stake was a hair’s breadth from his skin when he caught her wrists. For long moments they struggled silently, strength pitted against strength. With a wicked grin Buffy began to flex her hips slightly, rubbing against the hard evidence of his desire. Spike growled low in his throat, trying to keep his focus on the lethal stake and away from the feel of her hot body moving against him. Trying and failing.

Fortunately for Spike, this sword had a double-edge. Even as she knew the strength that kept her stake out of his heart was faltering, Buffy felt her need for the kill fading – being usurped by a need of a different kind.

In a sudden move Spike forced her hands upward and the stake fell from her grasp. The forward momentum caused her to fall onto his chest. With a lurch he rolled them over, sliding on top of her once again. He chuckled as he settled himself firmly between her thighs, relishing the gasp that escaped her.

Leaning down he licked her neck slowly, from her collarbone all the way up to her ear. He growled softly as he nibbled on her earlobe and she shivered in response. Her mind screamed at her to push him away even as her head tilted to give him better access.

A satisfied smile spread across Spike’s lips at her invitation. The scent of her arousal surrounded him and the feel of her body moving ever so slightly against his had him ready to explode.

Dipping his head once again he tasted the salty skin of her neck, sucking lightly. Buffy moaned loudly and arched her back, trying to get closer. He responded by sliding one hand down the side of her body, from shoulder to hip, and back up to capture a firm, round breast. His thumb brushed over her hardened nipple and she jerked as a bolt of electricity shot through her.

Of their own accord Buffy’s arms snaked inside his duster to the hard body beneath. His muscles twitched and rippled beneath her fingers and she delighted in his low growl when she dragged her fingernails down his back.

Finally, Spike could no longer control himself and he felt his game face come forward. He allowed one sharp tooth to drag across her skin, alerting her to her vulnerable position. Buffy shivered in fear and excitement, but did not pull away.

Carefully he sunk his fangs into her, groaning in pleasure as her hot blood filled his waiting mouth. As he began to suck languorously on her neck he resumed his ministrations on her body. Catching her nipple between his thumb and forefinger he tugged gently until she was arching into his hand. Their hips began to rock against each other and both moaned in pleasure as the intensity of their movements increased.

Buffy could feel her blood being pulled into his mouth but found she wasn’t frightened. She slid the fingers of one hand through his hair, holding him to her. Mewling sounds escaped her throat as she writhed beneath him, focused completely on the heat coursing through her body at his touch.

Before long their movements became more frantic. Clasping Spike tightly, Buffy felt herself fly over the edge as wave after wave of ecstasy rolled through her. Spike felt her shudder with release and it drove him wild. Losing all control he bucked hard against her once…twice…and finally went still.

Slowly Spike pulled his fangs from her throat and licked gently at the wounds as he felt his game face melt away. For long moments they lay silent. Neither willing to break the spell that held them in its thrall.

Finally Spike lifted his head to gaze down at her. She watched him quietly, refusing to think of the consequences of what they had done. Content just to enjoy the surreal moment.

Almost hesitantly Spike touched his lips to hers. The caress was light as a whisper, but both felt it touch something deep within them. Her tongue slipped between his lips and he touched it with his own. She could taste the metallic tang of her own blood and was surprised when she was filled with a feeling of intimacy at the thought of her blood running through his veins. She noticed that she didn’t feel at all weak and realised that he hadn’t taken much.

They parted only to stare at each other again. Spike had just opened his mouth to speak when the sound of someone calling Buffy’s name echoed through the night.

They sprang off the ground like they’d been burned, their gazes locked in confusion and longing as they backed away from each other. Without warning Buffy turned and ran. The thought of them being found together, after what had just happened…it was too awkward to contemplate.

She found Riley just metres from the clearing where she’d left Spike. “Buffy, there you are,” he said with a relieved grin.

“Riley what are you doing out here? Calling my name isn’t the safest thing to do in the middle of the night you know.”

Riley took in her annoyed countenance and cringed. “You’re right. I’m sorry, I guess I wasn’t thinking. I was just worried about you when I woke up and you weren’t there.”

“I couldn’t sleep. Just went for a walk.”

“Did you run into any baddies?”

“No,” she replied, forcing a bright smile, “not a one.” Buffy glanced at her trusting, loyal boyfriend and felt the guilt start to kick in.

“You know Riley I think I might just go home tonight. I’ve got an early class in the morning.”

Riley frowned. “Are you sure?”

“Yeah,” Buffy nodded enthusiastically. “I’ll be able to sleep in a little later if I go home.”

Relief flooded through her when he simply shrugged and said, “Okay.”

“Good night then,” Buffy mumbled and began to move off toward her building.

Riley stood watching her leave for a few seconds before heading in the opposite direction.

From the shadows, Spike watched them part. His eyes following Buffy until she disappeared into the night. Turning to go he cursed at the discomfort of his now wet jeans. A frown marred his features as a thousand questions filled his head. He had no idea what had happened between them tonight, but he bloody well intended to find out.
 
Chapter Two
 
Chapter Two

“Who kicked your puppy?”

“What?” Buffy turned at the sound of Spike’s voice close behind her, surprised that she hadn’t even heard him coming.

“Why the long face love?” he asked, joining her on the log she was perched on. He knew she’d been avoiding him since their interlude and was glad he finally had a chance to pin her down and find out why that night had happened.

Buffy frowned and rose to leave. “It’s none of your business,” she mumbled.

Spike followed, a smirk tugging at the corners of his mouth.

“What? Did you and Captain Cardboard have a lover’s tiff?”

He saw Buffy wince at the mention of Riley.

“Oh,” Spike said with a chuckle. “Must have been a bad one. Well, you know I never thought he was right for you anyway pet.”

“Yeah?" Buffy responded angrily, spinning to face him. "And who is right for me?”

Their gazes met as they both remembered the night a week ago when, in this very cemetery, they had shared a few stolen moments of passion the likes of which neither had experienced before. Buffy lowered her eyes first, unable to look at him without those same feelings sparking through her entire body.

“I broke him,” she blurted suddenly.

Her words were so quiet that Spike was thankful for his enhanced hearing.

“Broke him how?”

“Cracked three of his ribs.”

The urge to cackle with glee was almost irresistible, but for once Spike managed to contain his mirth.

“How’d it happen?” he asked.

Buffy looked away as her face went up in flames.

“Oh.” Spike managed before his restraint crumbled and he howled with laughter.

“Spike this isn’t funny,” Buffy tried to scowl, but found herself laughing with him as she realised how ridiculous her situation was. Turning to walk through the cemetery she wasn’t surprised when Spike fell into step beside her.

“I’m usually so careful,” she grumbled. “I guess I just got a little…carried away.” The moment flashed through her mind for the hundredth time that night. She’d finally gotten so fed up with Riley’s gentle lovemaking that she’d thrown him down on the bed and climbed on top of him. Ten minutes later she’d been riding him like there was no tomorrow, watching him buck and strain beneath her. She’d been so close…so close…that’s when she heard the distinct crack of bones breaking and suddenly Riley was groaning for all the wrong reasons.

Buffy dropped her head dejectedly in her hands as mortification washed over her once again. Poor Riley. All he’d wanted was to make her happy and she’d snapped him like a twig – literally.

“So now he’s home recovering and you’re wandering around in a cemetery all guilt-ridden and horny. That about sum it up pet?”

Buffy glared at him as she twirled a stake between her agitated fingers. “Pretty much,” she muttered.

He smiled down at her. “Well I might not be able to do much about the first one considering you’re guilty as sin, but the second one is a different matter. Come on in pet.”

Buffy looked around, surprised to find they were now in front of Spike’s crypt.

“Yeah right,” she crossed her arms over her chest. “I’m going to go into your crypt with you so you can cure me of my horniness? I don’t think so.”

Opening the door Spike turned to look at her with a smirk. “I was thinking of distracting you with conversation and a bottle of Jack, Slayer. But if you think you can’t keep your hands off me then by all means, go home.”

He disappeared into the darkness of the crypt leaving Buffy to stamp her foot in frustration. She knew she really shouldn’t be drinking. That always led to badness. Spending time with Spike generally led to them kicking the shit out of each other, which was fun. But then considering how that had ended last time that could lead to badness too. Spending the night alone in bed staring at the ceiling certainly didn’t hold much appeal. Finally making up her mind, Buffy took a deep breath and walked into the crypt.

**********

By the time Buffy entered the crypt Spike had already lit a dozen candles and sat straddling a long bench, pouring Whiskey into two shot glasses. She approached warily and eyed the amber liquid.

“I really shouldn’t drink,” she stated frankly.

“Whatever you say love.” Spike handed her a glass and then drained his own before refilling it.

Buffy brought the glass to her lips and, tossing back her head, swallowed the contents in one big gulp. She coughed violently as the alcohol burned a path down her throat. Spike chuckled and she threw him a glare before dropping heavily beside him on the bench and accepting her refilled glass.

“I did it once,” Spike announced suddenly.

“Did what?”

“Had sex with a human.”

Curiosity got the better of her as she watched him down another shot.

“What happened?” she finally asked.

“Damn near killed the girl. Bint started screaming like a bloody banshee.” He threw her a grin. “It was a very unsatisfying experience.”

Buffy knew she was supposed to be disgusted by his tale but couldn’t help the snort of laughter that escaped her. She tried to cover it by downing her drink but she knew he wasn’t fooled.

“So, you’re telling me you’ve never been able to just let go completely. Ever.”

Buffy just shrugged, hoping her blush wasn’t too obvious.

“What about Angel?”

“That was my first time Spike,” she rolled her eyes at him. “I was nervous and I had no idea what I was doing. Wasn’t about to be swinging from the chandelier was I?”

Catching the look on his face she felt her temper rise. “What?” she snapped.

“I just…I don’t know…” Spike found himself stumbling over his words.

Anger flooded her body as Buffy sprang off the bench. “Oh no, you don’t”, she yelled, poking his chest with her finger. “Don’t you dare feel sorry for me. Just because I can’t completely forgo all control with a guy does not automatically make me unsatisfied.”

Spike gave her dubious look. “Yeah Slayer. You turned to liquid fire in my arms last week because you’re so satisfied.”

Buffy gasped at the feelings his words evoked. Unconsciously she touched the scar his bite had left on her neck and felt it tingle. As he reached out to take her other hand Spike looked up at her with searching eyes.

“We would be so good together,” he whispered. His words washed over her like a caress and her heart began to beat wildly in her chest. Sensing her response, Spike rose to stand before her. Their bodies just inches apart. “I can take everything you can throw at me and return it in kind.”

Leaning down he brushed her lips with his own. “Buffy, let me love you like you deserve.” His tongue darted out to taste her and he heard her whimper.

Suddenly Spike was thrown against the wall of the crypt. He had just enough time to feel the pang of disappointment before she was on him. Buffy pressed her body hard against his as her tongue demanded entrance to his mouth. Spike gave a satisfied growl and bit down on her bottom lip before sucking it into his mouth to soothe the hurt.

Lifting her, he felt her wrap her legs firmly around his hips before he turned to slam her into his recently vacated position against the wall.

Reaching between them Buffy tore his shirt to shreds. Running her fingers over his now bare back she scored him deeply with her nails, delighting in his growls.

Meanwhile Spike was sucking and biting at her neck with blunt teeth. Insane with desire from the taste and feel of her.

Drawing away from the wall he laid her down on the nearby bed. Capturing her wrists above her head with one hand, he used the other to caress the curves of her body. Gripping the top of her shirt he yanked, tearing it right down the front.

Looking up he grinned at the almost feral light in her eyes as she breathed heavily through parted lips.

Still holding her gaze he bent to tease her left nipple with one long, slow swipe of his tongue. She moaned loudly, arching toward his mouth.

“Like that do you baby?” He questioned before raising an eyebrow. “How about this?”

Moving quickly he drew the hard nub into his mouth, grazing it lightly with his teeth. He had to fight not to get thrown clear as Buffy bucked wildly beneath him, screaming in pleasure.

Wrenching her wrists free Buffy flipped them over and attacked his chest with her mouth as her fingers deftly unclasped his jeans and delved inside to stroke his hard length. Kicking off his boots and jeans Spike lay back on the bed, revelling in the feel of her warm hands wrapped around him.

Working her way down his now naked form, Buffy licked and nibbled every available inch of skin. When she reached his belly button she dipped her tongue inside, smiling at the hiss it elicited.

Finally Buffy reached her goal. As she ran her tongue up the underside of his long shaft she heard him groan loudly. Taking him into her mouth she sucked hard, loving the feel of his fingers threading through her hair.

She barely heard him mutter, “Two can play at that game sweet Slayer.” Even as she wondered what he meant she felt him sit up, grab her waist and swivel her whole body around so her knees landed on either side of his head, all without dislodging her mouth.

She squeaked when he tore her pants and black silk thong from her body and pushed off her shoes. He rolled them so they both lay comfortably on their sides. Then, taking a moment to position himself properly, Spike breathed in the undiluted scent of Buffy’s desire before reaching his tongue out to taste her.

The moment she felt his mouth on her Buffy saw stars. She groaned deep in her throat, causing him to shiver as the vibrations passed straight from her body to his. They quickly became lost in a maelstrom of sensations as they gave and took of each other with an intensity that had them both quaking. Hands roamed at will, stroking and kneading, until their fingers met and intertwined.

Gripping onto him for dear life Buffy’s mouth clamped tightly around Spike’s now throbbing erection as she felt herself begin cresting the waves of pleasure Spike was drawing from her. In turn, her continuous moans sent Spike soaring over the edge. Burying his tongue inside her he emptied himself into her willing mouth as she continued to shudder against him.

With a grateful sigh Buffy fell onto her back, licking her lips and grinning like a loon. When Spike reached for her again she clambered off the bed, laughing wickedly. “Oh no you don’t pet.” Spike leered at her nakedness as he stalked her across the room, “I’m no where near done with you yet.”

TO BE CONTINUED

A/N: Thanks to those that have reviewed this story. I really appreciate it.
 
Chapter Three
 
Chapter Three

Buffy backed away from Spike with a feral grin. She could feel the alcohol she’d consumed earlier coursing through her, allowing her inhibitions to take a much needed vacation. Running her hands slowly up her naked body she gently kneaded her breasts as she watched Spike approach. “And just what would a big bad vampire like yourself want me to do?”

Spike chuckled with delight. He’d never seen the Slayer so…playful. Taking advantage of his enhanced speed he shot forward to grab her around the waist and drag her body up against his.

Slowly he ran his tongue over her bottom lip, smiling when she sighed. “Make me beg.”

Buffy stared at him in shock for several moments before a wicked smile stole across her face. Spike could have sworn he saw her eyes flash yellow before she crashed into him once again. Her lips and teeth devouring him with a ferocity that surprised even him.

Buffy had never been as grateful for her supernatural strength as she was when she picked Spike up and threw him bodily onto a large sarcophagus. Clambering up after him she quickly straddled his hips and pinned his arms above his head at the wrists. Taking a long moment to saviour the feelings coursing through her Buffy watched the vampire with a sense of exaltation.

Make me beg.

The words made her shiver as they replayed in her mind. Spike’s breath was coming in harsh pants, despite the lack of necessity. His blue eyes were fixed unblinking on her face, the hunger within them unconcealed. The evidence of his arousal was pressed intimately against her and when she flexed her hips slightly she was rewarded with his gasp as he grew even larger beneath her.

Make me beg.

She smiled in anticipation as she fully recognised her own power over him. Finally, with this man, she could be free. She could do anything to him and he would thank her for it. She could hurt him and he would only want her more. Anything.

Releasing his wrists, Buffy dragged her nails slowly down his arms to his chest, drawing intricate patterns over the muscles she found there. When Spike began to lower his arms her hands stilled and her eyes snapped back to his. Understanding her silent command Spike returned his arms to their place above his head, crossing them at the wrists. Even so the smile on his lips and the defiance in his eyes dared her to try to tame him.

The heat of lust shot through Buffy at the combination of submission and rebellion. Keeping her eyes on the expressive planes of his face, Buffy recommenced her play. She let her fingers dance at will across his skin. Learning, teasing, exploring. Pinching his nipples she smiled when he hissed softly. Lowering her mouth she ran the flat of her tongue over one hard pebble before pulling it between her teeth and biting down.

Spike groaned loudly as he arched up toward her mouth. The slight pain of her little teeth nipping at him sent a bolt of fire straight from his nipple to his groin and he had to remind himself not to plead for more.

Ever so slowly Buffy slid her body up his, making sure they were just touching. When she reached his mouth she darted her tongue out to lick the corner of his mouth, springing back when he tried to capture her lips with his own. Looking into his eyes she reached between them and drew one finger up the underside of his shaft then twirled it lightly around the head. As he writhed and moaned beneath her she whispered, “When you’re done begging me, I’ll let you do anything you want.”

Spike choked on the words, his straining body warring with the pride that wouldn’t let her defeat him so quickly. Enjoying the effect her words had on him, Buffy grinned happily and started to work her way back down his body. Kneeling between his legs she breathed heavily on the inside of his thighs, causing a violent tremor to pass through him. Moving up slightly she took one round sphere into her mouth and sucked firmly as she rolled her tongue around it. Then she repeated the action with the other.

“Oh God Buffy,” Spike shouted, his voice raw with unfulfilled passion.

Buffy chuckled with glee as she stared hungrily at the rock-hard erection in front of her. Starting at the base she licked him like a lollipop, and then changed to short, hard licks all over him, making him whimper as he sought desperately to direct his aching flesh closer to her mouth.

Deciding she couldn’t wait any longer Buffy crawled back up his body. Her aching centre hovered over him as she watched him looking at her there. The stark longing on his face, and the almost inaudible keening sound coming from him, made her want to put him out of his misery. Almost.

Grasping him firmly with one hand she guided him to her core, sliding him between the heated folds of flesh. She moaned his name as she felt her muscles clenching, desperate for the feel of him stretching her, filling her. Giving in to the needs of her body Buffy slid down onto him, only to bounce straight back up until only the tip remained inside her. Spike’s shout of joy quickly faltered as the scalding heat that had engulfed him disappeared.

Buffy raked her nails sharply down his chest and over his stomach. Hissing at the pain, Spike’s eyes snapped back to her face to find her watching him avidly. Holding his gaze she quickly bounced on him again. Down. Up. Neither could help the sounds that tore from them at the feel of flesh sliding against flesh.

Buffy prayed he would break before she found herself begging him to beg. Desperate to tear those sweet words of supplication from his resisting body she sank once more and groaned loudly. “Oh Spike, I want you.”

At her words the final thread of Spike’s control snapped. Suddenly he found himself clutching at her hips, trying desperately to hold her to him as he bucked up into the heat of her body. The words that had been lodged in his throat burst forth in a torrent. “Oh God please…Buffy…please…need you…now!”

Throwing her head back Buffy released a wild cry of triumph and relief. Clenching him tightly inside her she let her body fall forward onto his chest as she rode him at a furious pace, her thighs gripping his body like a steel trap.

Quickly approaching an explosion of unknown proportions Buffy was surprised when Spike flipped them over. Slipping his arms under her legs he lifted them onto his shoulders before thrusting hard into her. Buffy never would have believed he could touch her so deeply and that one heart-pounding thrust sent her spiralling over the edge. Spike felt like she was strangling him as he drove into her and, watching her sweat-soaked body twisting and arching under him, he was awed by the savage beauty of her completion. His own climax hit him with the force of a tidal wave and with a great roar he followed her into the pulsating blackness of release.

 
Chapter Four
 
Chapter Four

When Buffy stirred some time later she was surprised to feel the softness of the bed beneath her naked body. Feeling a delicious ache in her well-used muscles she began to stretch her limbs. Her eyes snapped open as she heard the clinking of the chains and felt the manacles encircling her wrists and ankles. Frantic eyes searched the room and quickly spotted Spike’s naked form sitting in a nearby chair, watching her calmly.

“Spike.” Buffy despised the tremor in her voice. She could feel her heart pounding in her chest as she took in her situation. Naked. Chained. Defenceless. Taking a deep breath she brought her eyes back to his and held his gaze steadily. “Take off the chains Spike.”

An evil smile slowly spread across his full lips. “No.”

Trying to spring from the bed Buffy found she could only raise her limbs a few scant inches. Fear lanced through her as she realised she wouldn’t be able to break the chains. “Let me go Spike.”

Slowly Spike rose from the chair and came to kneel beside the bed. “Shhh Buffy,” he spoke quietly, his voice laced with his innate sensuality. “I’m not gonna hurt you.” He trailed one finger lightly down the centre of her body. She stilled at his touch, caught between the pleasure of his caress and uncertainty about what he would do next.

Using his whole hand now to stroke and stimulate her body he continued to speak in a low voice. “I was watching you sleep when it occurred to me that while you’ve been missing out on giving up control, there has most definitely been another thing lacking in your life.”

Buffy found her body turning into his caress, moving to accommodate his hands. Now she lifted heavy lids to look at him, waiting for him to continue.

Leaning over her he hovered, his lips almost touching one hardened nipple. He turned his head just enough to look into her eyes. “You need to have control stripped away.”

With sudden gusto he latched onto her nipple, sucking it hard between his teeth. Buffy cried out in surprise. Pleasure shot through her and she arched her back, pressing herself against his mouth. All thought flew from her mind as his hands travelled her body, worshipping every inch of skin. His expert fingers were gentle, whisper-soft, and yet she felt as if electricity tripped and played everywhere he touched.

Reaching for him, she whimpered in frustration when the chains held her back. Raising his head from her breast he smile gently at her and moved to settle his body over hers, giving her the contact she craved. He kissed her with a tenderness that left her aching for more. She sighed softly as he nuzzled her neck, then began to work his way down her body.

She closed her eyes, her breath held, as he came to rest between her thighs. She could feel his cool breath against her sensitive flesh and a desperate sound escaped her. Then she felt his fingers slide into her at the same time as he gently sucked on the hard nub of her desire. She shattered. The world falling away with a quiet intensity she’d never known. Vaguely she was aware of him removing the manacles from her limbs and lying down beside her, drawing her sated body into his arms.

“So perfect.” Still floating in the aftermath of her completion she snuggled closer at his quiet words. “My beautiful Buffy.”

Tilting her head back she brush his lips with hers, sighing when her body stirred against his. “Spike,” she moaned as she rolled on top of him and captured his mouth in a tender kiss.

**********

Buffy blushed when she realised every piece of clothing she’d worn into Spike’s crypt had been shredded. What am I going to wear home now? Turning toward the bed she saw that he had awakened and was watching her quietly. Coming closer she sat on the edge of the bed, unsure what to do next. Tentatively she reached out to gently stroke his cheek and smiled softly when his eyes drifted closed and he turned into her hand, giving the palm a small kiss.

She knew she should be furious about what had happened last night. At him, but mostly at herself. But curiously, she felt only calm, peaceful. After he’d removed the restraints they’d made love for hours. Seemingly caught in a place where only they existed. They’d brought each other pleasure time and time again, always wanting more. It had been the most incredible night of her life. She couldn’t find it in her heart to betray that by regretting it in the harsh light of day. The look in his eyes told her that he didn’t regret it either.

Shyly she looked down, indicating the blanket wrapped around her nakedness. “I seem to be experiencing a wardrobe problem.”

Spike smirked at her. “Oh I don’t know pet. I kind of like you like that.”

Tossing him a mock glare she replied, “Yeah, well somehow I don’t think walking across town like this is a great idea.”

Rising from the bed Spike paused long enough to don a pair of black jeans before picking up his leather duster and handing it to her. “You can wear this home if you’d like.”

Buffy gratefully drew the duster around her and shimmied out of the blanket underneath. She liked the feel of the leather against her bare skin, the way the smell of Spike surrounded her. “Thanks.”

“You’re welcome.”

Their eyes locked and before they realised what was happening they found themselves in each other’s arms. Hungry mouths joined in a desperate kiss. Both knew that before long they would end up on opposing sides of a battle. He was a vampire. She was the Slayer. It was inevitable. But in that moment, there was time for one last taste of shared passion.

Finally, Buffy forced herself to break away, bereft at the loss of his touch. Then, quickly turning away, she walked out into the early morning sunlight, closing the door quietly behind her.
 
Chapter Five
 
Chapter Five

Raising the leather to her nose Buffy inhaled deeply. A sensual shiver rippled through her body as Spike’s unique smell enveloped her. She frowned at the coat. This was wrong. Spike was evil, a vampire with no soul. He killed to feed and he enjoyed it. His death was her duty. So why isn’t he dead, she wondered. She’d slain nearly every vampire she’d ever fought. But not Spike. They’d fought dozens of times, vowed over and over to bring about each other’s painful demise. Yet somehow neither had ever managed to deliver that killing blow. Now suddenly that violence was erupting in completely new and less...well, fighty ways. She knew they could never be together. Even if they wanted to. But as she thought back to the excitement and passion of the previous night, she wondered how she’d ever be able to stay away from him now.

A knock on the door dragged Buffy from her thoughts. Shoving the leather duster under her pillow, she answered it.

“Hey Buffy.” A slightly haggard Riley smiled at her.

“Riley,” Buffy replied, hoping she sounded happy to see him. “How are you feeling?”

Riley rubbed his ribs and grimaced, “I’ve been better, but I’ll be okay.”

Buffy bit her bottom lip as a fresh wave of guilt assailed her. Inviting him in she closed the door and reluctantly turned to face him. “I’m really sorry Riley. I never meant to hurt you like that.”

“Hey, don’t worry about it. Guess we’ll just have to be a bit less rough from now on.”

Buffy almost snorted as an image of her throwing Spike halfway across the room, before launching herself on top of him like a feral cat, flashed in her mind. She saw Riley looking at her with a tolerant smile and put on her best remorseful face. Oh he really has no idea what rough is.

She felt his arms slide around her waist but as he tried to pull her closer she backed away. “Riley we have to talk.”

Riley shrugged. “Okay.” He took a seat on Willow’s bed while Buffy sat herself primly on the edge of her own. She was dreading the coming conversation but after the events of the last few days she knew it was the right thing to do. Raising her eyes to meet his she caught his wary expression and decided to try and get this over with as quickly as possible.

“I’ve really enjoyed these last months with you Riley. You’re a great guy, really. But I don’t think this is working.” She swallowed heavily. “I don’t think we should see each other any more.”

For long moments Riley just stared at her with his mouth gulping like a fish. “Buffy,” he finally sputtered. “Why?”

Buffy sighed, unsure how to word this to spare his feelings. Somehow she figured, ‘You’re a bad lay’, wouldn’t be much of a self-esteem booster. “We just want different things.”

“Is this about last night?”

Buffy’s head snapped up. Last night? How the hell could he know what happened last night?

“Buffy I’ll be okay. It’s just some bruising.”

With relief Buffy realised he wasn’t talking about Spike, but their own little ‘mishap’. Then she realised what he’d said. “Bruising? Riley I broke three of your ribs,” she said incredulously.

“So?” Riley exclaimed. “We’ll just be more careful. More gentle.”

Buffy snapped. “I don’t want to be gentle Riley. I want fire and heat and lust. I want to be able to lose control occasionally without having to worry that I’ll cause grievous bodily harm to my boyfriend.”

“That’s what this is about? Sex.” The look he shot her made her feel like the shallowest woman on the face of the planet and she rose off the bed to escape his condemning stare.

“No. Well that’s part of it but…I’m sorry Riley. But I just can’t be with you anymore.”

When he was silent she hoped he’d gotten the message and that would be the end of it. But when she turned around she found him staring at her bed. Following his gaze she realised he’d spotted Spike’s duster under her pillow. Before she could react he’d grabbed it and was holding it up in a clenched fist.

“It’s Spike isn’t it. He’s done this to you.”

“No,” Buffy cried. “Spike has nothing to do with it. This is about you and me Riley. I’m sorry, but I don’t love you.”

“And you do love Spike is that it?”

“Riley you aren’t listening to me…” Her frustration was mounting as she realised he was still missing the point.

“He’s a vampire Buffy! What is wrong with you?”

“There is nothing wrong with me.”

“You just don’t want someone that actually loves you, do you. Admit it Buffy, you want a man that will throw you down and fuck you like a dirty whore!”

With a shocked gasp Buffy pulled back and punched Riley in the jaw. He cried out in pain as blood began to run from a cut in his lip.

For several seconds they stared at each other in shock. Then Riley began, “Buffy…”

“Get out.” She cut him off; no longer interested in anything he had to say. “Don’t ever come near me again.”

Riley looked down at the duster in his hands before he threw it at her feet in disgust. “I hope you’ll be happy with your filthy demon.”

As the door slammed shut behind him Buffy dropped down onto the bed. She trembled with anger, unable to believe Riley would say such horrible things to her. Reaching down she drew Spike’s duster onto her lap, staring at it as she pondered their dilemma. Riley was right about one thing, she thought bitterly. Spike is evil. She knew that tonight he would hunt, killing a human in order to gain sustenance. She had no choice but to stop him. Unable to stand thinking about it any longer Buffy tucked the duster carefully into her closet. Then, gathering her things, she set off for class.

**********

That night, just as the sun was setting, Buffy stood in the middle of Spike’s crypt. His duster clutched in one fist. Shock was plain on her face. “Spike?” For a moment she wondered if maybe she’d wandered into the wrong crypt by accident. But even as the thought entered her head she knew she was just grasping at straws.

The crypt was empty. Everything was gone. The comfortable bed, where she had experienced the most erotic night of her life, had been stripped bare. Only the frame remained. All his clothes had been cleared out. The fridge emptied of its extra blood bags. Suddenly the crypt seemed cold and alien to her.

Hurt tore at her insides as she crumpled to her knees. He’s gone.
 
Chapter Six
 
Chapter Six

The light was blinding. That was the first thing Spike registered as he began to surface out of the depths of unconsciousness. He cautiously cracked an eye open, allowing it to adjust to the brightness, and looked around. The cell was small. Three white walls and a fourth made of a glass. Immediately he launched himself at the glass only to be repelled violently the moment he touched it.

Springing back onto his feet he roared in anger. “Finn you great wanker, get your arse in here.”

A chuckle sounded and then Riley strolled into view. His arms were crossed over his chest in an arrogant pose and a smug smile twisted his features. “Well well, the big bad vampire caged like a mongrel dog. Right where you belong Spike.”

“What the hell is this?”

“Welcome to The Initiative Spike,” Riley replied, obviously enjoying his position of control. “You see, the government is very interested in the demon world. Keeping them contained, learning their strengths. And you just became our latest guest.”

Spike’s expression oozed contempt as he watched Riley strut up and down the length of his cell. “So that makes you a little soldier boy then.”

“That makes me the man in charge of whether you continue your worthless undead existence.”

“Oh please,” Spike laughed at him. “If you wanted to kill me you would have done it when you and your buddies attacked me in my crypt.”

Riley’s smile didn’t reach his eyes. “Let’s just say I have plans for you before you die. There are still plenty of questions about vampires that haven’t been answered yet. I figure you’ll make a great guinea pig.”

Spike stilled at the threat. “I’m gonna rip your throat out,” he said quietly.

Riley just laughed. “Go ahead.” He slid a card through what Spike assumed was a lock on the outside of the cell. “Take your best shot.” There was a slight swishing sound as the glass wall slid away.

Instantly slipping into game face Spike launched his attach with a snarl. However, before he could so much as lay a hand on Riley, lightening flashed behind his eyes and blinding pain lanced through his skull. With a cry he crumpled to the floor at Riley’s feet.

Laughter filled his ears as confusion reined in his mind. With difficulty he struggled to his feet. “What the hell have you done to me?”

“Let’s call it behaviour modification,” Riley stated smugly. “A computer chip has been implanted in your brain. You can no longer harm a human being.” Despite his best attempts Spike could not keep the shock from showing on his face. “That’s right Spike. No killing. No drinking.” Riley paused to saviour the moment. “I guess that makes you…impotent.”

Unable to control himself in the face of Riley’s taunts Spike attacked, only to experience the crippling pain once again. On that note Riley closed the glass door again and left Spike to contemplate his new prison.

**********

Her mouth tilted into a sensual smile as she traced the lines of his chest and stomach with her fingertips. Silken hair fell forward over her shoulders in soft waves. Its golden colour shone like ripened wheat in the candlelight. Full lips parted on a blissful sigh. Green eyes flashed with delight as she bit down lightly on the inside of his wrist. His growl was answered by an enchanting giggle.

Grasping her hips he guided her as she rode him with a smooth rolling motion. He could feel her muscles hugging him tightly as he slid in and out of her. Eager to feel her soft skin against his body he rolled them over, groaning as he sank into her further. He felt her long limbs wrap around him, her scent filling his senses. Burying his face in the crook of her neck he allowed her scent to envelop him. “Buffy,” he whispered huskily. “I love you.”


When the scream was finally torn from his throat it was steeped in agony. Sweat flowed in rivulets down muscles contorted in pain. The blood that flowed through his veins burned like acid. His pale skin was blackened in a dozen places where he’d been exposed to holy water and sunlight. Blood flowed where his heart had been pierced with numerous kinds of metal.

But behind his eyes he held a picture of her clear in his mind. Through the torment and the torture he escaped into her arms. His Buffy.

**********

Spike lay still as death. He hadn’t moved a muscle in over an hour, hoping that they hadn’t seen him empty the bag of drugged blood down the drain in the corner. Normally they kept him drugged enough that he didn’t really know what was going on around him. Someone must have missed the start of their shift though, because this time when the bag was dropped into his cell he was coherent enough not to fall on it in hunger. Now, as he laid there, his body raged at him; demanding sustenance. It would have to wait.

His ears perked up at the sound of footsteps coming closer; and then the door swished open. Before the soldier even had a chance to look up from the locking panel he had sprung up from the floor. His hands blurred with speed as he plucked the key card from the surprised man and gave him a push into the cell. Grateful that he’d managed not to set off the chip in his brain he slid the key card through the locking mechanism, grunting in satisfaction when the door closed, trapping the soldier inside.

Quickly he ran down the corridor, sliding the key card through each lock he came across. His only hope was that one of the creatures he released would know the way out; or at least buy him some time to find one. His prayers were answered when a voice called out to him. “This way.” He turned to find another vampire smiling at him. “Strength in numbers man.”

Grinning, Spike followed. The younger vampire led him down a seemingly endless series of corridors, easily fighting off the few soldiers they came across. It seemed this one hadn’t been implanted with the chip yet. No wonder he’s still in such good condition, Spike thought. Finally, just when he’d convinced himself they were both hopelessly lost, they burst through a set of doors and out into the night.

Immediately he heard the shouts of soldiers coming their way. Without pausing Spike sprinted into the darkness, determined to escape. He needed blood, and time for his body to heal. Now that he was effectively helpless, there was only one place he could go.
 
Chapter Seven
 
Chapter Seven

“And you say he looked something like this?”

Buffy looked up to see Giles holding a sketchpad out to her. On it he'd drawn what looked to her a bit like G.I. Joe in a balaclava. She nodded. “Pretty much. We saw these guys on Halloween but I just assumed they were in costume.”

“What do you think they're up to?” Giles asked.

Buffy frowned and shook her head. “I don't know. But I intend to find out.”

A loud knock sounded at the door and Buffy stood to answer it. At first she didn't see anybody and took a step forward. Suddenly Spike lurched out at her from the meagre shade offered by the entryway. “Buffy,” he rasped.

Surprised, Buffy automatically pushed him away. “Spike, what are you doing here?” she asked curtly. It had been three weeks since she'd seen him and she was still smarting over the way he'd left without a word.

“Looking for you,” he gasped. He was smoking lightly, huddled beneath an old threadbare blanket. His eyes were sunken, his skin even paler than usual. “I need your help.”

“What's wrong, someone kick your arse on the way back into town?”

A confused expression crossed his features. “Back into...? No. I was captured. There were these soldiers...”

Just then Giles appeared behind Buffy. “Soldiers you say?”

“Yeah.” Spike glared at the Watcher before turning back to Buffy. “We need to talk.”

Buffy avoided his gaze. “We have nothing to talk about.”

“Just a moment Buffy,” Giles reasoned. “If he can give us information about the soldiers he could be useful.”

Spike saw his chance and grabbed it. “Oh yeah, I've got plenty of information.”

Buffy turned around. “Giles, he's evil. They probably just came across him eating someone and he ran away.”

“No. Better than that,” Spike countered. “I've been inside their labs. They put some sort of chip in my brain. Now I can't bite anyone. Can't even hit people.”

Sighing loudly Buffy relented. Turning to Giles she said, “Fine. But if he kills us all just remember that I told you so.”

Quickly retrieving his crossbow Giles pointed it at Spike before speaking. “Come in Spike.”

Relieved, Spike slowly made his way into the apartment. Buffy asked Giles to get some rope as she dragged a chair out from behind his writing desk.

“Sit,” she demanded, glaring at Spike.

Spike shrugged out of the old blanket, wincing in pain, and then flopped down into the chair. Closing his eyes he finally allowed his body to relax. He knew better than to trust Buffy or her Watcher completely, but he also knew they wouldn't kill him without fair warning.

Accepting the rope from Giles, Buffy knelt in front of Spike, ready to tie him to the chair. She gasped as she took in the burn marks on his face and arms. He looked like he'd been tortured. She recognised the light charring from the sun, the rivulets of red caused by the pouring of holy water onto his skin. Seeing the way he clutched one hand over his chest she pulled it away and lifted his t-shirt. Her stomach turned at the sight. The barely closed hole that she knew led straight to his heart was still weeping blood. She'd have only to drop a splinter of wood into it and he would crumble into dust right before her eyes.

Suddenly forgetting the ropes Buffy rose from the floor, anger clear on her face. “Giles, we're gonna need blood. Lots of it.”

Casting his eyes over Spike’s wounds Giles nodded. “I'll be back as soon as I can,” he said as he headed for the door. “You'll be alright here alone?”

Buffy nodded. “I'll be fine. Don't really think he's up for a fight.”

“Yes, of course.”

The moment Giles left Buffy rushed to get a bowl of water and a towel. Placing them on the coffee table she helped Spike to the couch. Carefully she removed his shirt, grimacing when the jostling caused his wound to bleed more.

“Just lie back and stay still,” she murmured, dunking the towel into the water and wringing it out.

As she began to clean away the worst of the blood on his chest she glanced up to find him smirking at her. “What?” she asked irritably.

“I knew you wouldn't be able to keep your hands off me Slayer.”

“In your dreams Spike.”

“There too.” He smiled as he leered at her, his eyes roaming over her body.

Feeling her heartbeat quicken under his heated gaze Buffy quickly changed the subject. “How long did they have you?”

Spike frowned as he thought about it for a moment. “Don't rightly know. It was the day after you and I...” He trailed off when her eyes darted up in surprise. “They attacked me in my crypt a few hours after you left the next morning. Must have been a full dozen of them.”

She frowned in confusion. “They attacked you in your crypt?”

“Yeah.”

“Then you didn't leave town?”

“Why would I leave?” Suddenly he understood her attitude toward him since he showed up at the door. “No Buffy, I didn't leave. You think after what happened between us that I'd just take off?”

“But your crypt was empty. Everything was gone. You just disappeared without a trace. I thought...”

Spike reached out to cup her cheek in his hand, holding her gaze steadily. “You thought wrong.”

Confused at the feelings of happiness that suddenly washed over her, Buffy went back to cleaning his wound. Watching the play of emotions on her face with interest, Spike slid his hand up her thigh to rest it comfortably on her hip. He felt her quiver slightly, heard the blood rushing through her veins and couldn't help but smile. “So how long has it been?” he asked quietly.

“About three weeks.”

Three weeks, Spike thought in amazement. It felt more like three years.

Absently stroking her hip, he approached a new topic cautiously. “How's Riley?”

Her hands stilled suddenly and she dropped the towel back into the bowl of water before answering. “I wouldn't know. We broke up.”

“You did?” he asked in surprise. “When?”

Knowing there was no way she could say this without stroking his ego she rolled her eyes. “A few weeks ago.”

A knowing grin spread cockily across his face. “Three weeks ago?”

She refused to look at him. “Something like that.”

Suddenly understanding dawned in his eyes and the grin disappeared. “Did you tell him anything...about us?”

“No, of course not,” she replied indignantly. “But then he saw your duster in my room and came to his own conclusions.”

Furious, Spike sprang up from the couch, heedless of the pain that radiated through his battered body. “That bastard. That's why he hates me so much. He was just bloody jealous. No wonder they emptied my crypt. He wanted you to think I'd taken off.”

Frowning at his outburst Buffy demanded, “What the hell are you talking about?”

Turning to face her he declared, “Buffy. Riley is one of the soldiers. When I was captured that day, he's the one that led the attack!”
 
Chapter Eight
 
Chapter Eight

Buffy sat very still. She kept her breathing slow and even as she counted to ten. For the fifth time. When she felt sure she wouldn’t start throwing Giles’ possessions randomly around the room she looked at Spike.

He was sitting rigidly in a chair across from her. His unwavering gaze locked on her. She could see a muscle ticking in his jaw and knew he was just as furious as she was.

“So you’re saying that Riley is some high-level soldier in a government organisation called The Initiative which has a huge facility underneath the campus. And that the day I broke up with him he decided to get his revenge on both of us by torturing you and making me think that you’d left town.”

Spike nodded stiffly. “Yeah pet. That about sums it up.”

Finally the dam broke and Buffy shot out of her chair to pace around the room. “God I can’t believe him. All those months he knew I was the Slayer, he’s part of some demon hunting operation and never even bothered to tell me. And then, trying to manipulate me by making me think…” Angry to the depths of her core Buffy let out a frustrated roar. Spinning back to Spike she ranted, “He tried to get back together with me you know. Claimed he heard on the grapevine that you’d taken off the first chance you got. Had that smug smirk on his face too. Oh, I should have known something was up.”

“Not to mention the torturing pet. Can’t forget the torturing,” Spike added, a little piqued that she had yet to express an appropriate amount of outrage over his suffering.

“Oh I haven’t even gotten to the torturing yet,” she continued with renewed enthusiasm. “I mean I’m happy to kill demons to make the world safer but experimenting, torturing, trying to gain knowledge about their abilities in order to use them? That just has evil agenda stamped all over it.”

“Yeah well,” Spike said tersely, in no way mollified by her monologue. “Everybody’s got bombs now. I guess the military is looking for a new advantage over the other bloke.”

At that moment the door opened and Giles strode in with two large bags. Sensing the tension in the room he looked from Buffy to Spike and back again. “What did I miss?”

**********

A short time later Giles asked, “So what do you intend to do now?”

Buffy sighed tiredly. She’d told Giles everything, except the part where Riley had targeted Spike to get back at her. “Well I figure I’ll start by kicking Riley’s arse. See what else I can find out about The Initiative.”

She looked at Spike, who was finishing his third bag of blood. “That will have to wait till tomorrow though. In the meantime I’m going to take Spike home with me. Tomorrow morning we can go over the details of what he remembers about The Initiative.”

Giles frowned at her suggestion. “Buffy are you sure that’s wise?”

“It’s okay,” she told him reassuringly. “Mom’s out of town. I’ll just tie him up for the night. I’ll be fine.”

Spike stood, glaring as he pointed a finger at her. “No bloody way am I spending my first night of freedom tied to a bloody chair. I told you, I can’t hurt anybody on account of the chip they shoved in my skull.”

Buffy rolled her eyes. “Sure Spike. I’ll believe it when I see it.”

“Alright fine,” Spike spat out, already preparing himself for the pain. “I’ll show you.” Drawing back a fist he aimed straight for Buffy’s petite nose. He got within about half a foot before the pain kicked in and he screamed out loud, clutching at his head.

Buffy cringed at the look of pure agony on his face. “Oh my God,” she said to Giles. “Maybe he is telling the truth.”

“Possibly,” Giles conceded. “But still Buffy. I’d feel better if you agreed to restrain him, at least until we know for certain.”

Buffy nodded, even as Spike glared at her. “Sure thing.”

**********

When they entered the house Buffy headed straight for the kitchen to store the rest of Spike’s blood.

“I don’t suppose there’s any chance of grabbing a shower before you start with the bondage love?”

Feeling suddenly awkward about having Spike in the house Buffy avoided his gaze. “Sure. Follow me.”

After showing him to the bathroom Buffy went hunting for some clean clothes.

“You’ve probably noticed the complete lack of males living in this house,” she said, handing him her baggiest sweatpants and her largest t-shirt. She saw the doubtful look he cast her way and shrugged. “It’s the best I can do.”

Buffy spent the next 20 minutes keeping herself busy. Dragging a dining room chair and long length of rope into the lounge room, making sure the room would be sunproof come morning, grabbing a snack from the fridge. Anything to keep her mind off Spike. In the shower. Naked.

Inching her way up the stairs she came closer to the bathroom door. She could hear the water running. Pictured it flowing down over his body. In her mind’s eye she could see his strong hands covered in soapsuds, gliding down his chest, coasting over his stomach, before one hand wrapped around his hard–

Suddenly the door opened and he was standing in front of her. His face just inches from hers and looking extremely smug. She hadn’t even realised the water had stopped running.

“Was there something you wanted love?” His deep, husky voice reached her ears just as her eyes were drawn irrevocably down his muscular body. His chest was bare, revealing his broad shoulders and mouth-watering six-pack. The wound over his heart, which was healing quickly now, did nothing to detract from his masculine beauty. His narrow hips were snugly encased in the light grey sweatpants. They may have been baggy on her but on him they left very little to the imagination.

As her eyes finally returned to his face she found him watching her with a cocky grin, still awaiting an answer to his question. Boy, did she ever see something she wanted.

Suddenly snapping out of her drool-fest she blurted, “Your clothes. I was going to put your dirty clothes on to wash.”

With an amused smile he turned to retrieve his clothes and handed them to her.

“Lounge room. Two minutes.” She threw back over her shoulder as she hurried down the hall. “And you may want to put on a shirt so the ropes don’t chafe.”

**********

“I still don’t see why this is necessary pet,” Spike grumbled. “If I wanted to kill you I would have done it when you were naked and handcuffed to my bed.”

With a gasp Buffy suddenly straightened from her rope tightening. She found him staring hungrily at her lips and felt her body respond instantly. He smiled saucily as he winked at her and she realised he knew exactly what effect he had on her.

Drawing herself up to her full height she stared down her nose at him as she replied, “You’ve been hell bent on killing me for years Spike. Forgive me if one night doesn’t suddenly make me willing to put my life, and the life of anyone else who happens to cross your path, in your hands.”

Spike rolled his eyes when she placed the remote control for the television in his hand.

“Good night Spike,” she proclaimed brightly before turning on her heel and practically running from the room.

“Silly bint,” Spike muttered as he began to flick channels. Finding a re-run of Dawson’s Creek playing he settled in for a long and boring evening.

**********

Several hours later the tattered remains of the ropes lay about the lounge room floor. He’d done his best not to damage Joyce’s dining room chair, which still sat in front of the television as Spike’s silent form disappeared up the stairs.

Opening the door to Buffy’s room Spike stood silently for a few moments, watching her sleep. Her long hair was spread across the pillow. She was lying on her side, the sheet draped low across her hips. She was wearing a pale pink tank top and he could see her breasts rising and falling as she slept. Moving into the room Spike shed the t-shirt and, after a brief deliberation, decided to keep the sweatpants on in case she tried to stake him in the morning.

Then, drawing back the sheet, he slowly eased into the bed behind her. Lying down he nuzzled the back of her neck gently, inhaling the scent of her deeply. Careful not to wake her he slid one arm around her waist, curling up against her body so he could feel her pressed against the length of him. She stirred briefly, sighing deeply and snuggling back into him. A contented smile tugged at his lips as he closed his eyes and allowed sleep to overcome him.
 
Chapter Nine
 
Chapter Nine

Buffy stirred as she awoke, warm and comfortable in her bed. Feeling a strong arm wrapped tightly around her waist she snuggled back into the cool body behind her. “Spike,” she murmured sleepily. A muffled sigh and the press of gentle lips against the back of her neck in a brief kiss were her only answer.

Suddenly Buffy’s eyes snapped open, now fully awake and alert. Careful not to move a muscle she took a moment to absorb the current situation. She was at home in her own bed, still wearing the clothes she’d worn to bed last night. But instead of being tied up in the lounge room Spike was now spooning her and, apparently, had been there most of the night. Also, if the growing hardness poking her in the butt was any indication, he was going to wake up in an amorous mood.

Buffy ‘tsked’ herself mentally for her lousing knot tying, but was otherwise surprised by how much she liked waking up in Spike’s arms.

Slowly and carefully Buffy rolled over so she could watch him sleep. His hair lay in mussed curls about his head. His face, relaxed in sleep, looked boyish and peaceful. Nothing like the big bad vampire she knew him to be.

Allowing her eyes to wander down his body she could see that his many wounds were fading now. Even the terrible damage done to the area over his heart was now no more than a large red welt marring his pale skin. Reaching out tentatively she touched it, her brow creasing as she thought about the pain he must have suffered in the past three weeks. All because of her.

She was startled when his hand covered hers, giving it a light squeeze. Raising her gaze back to his face she looked deep into his blue eyes. Seeing the tenderness reflected there.

“Morning love,” he whispered. “I hope you don’t mind I–”

Buffy pressed a finger to his lips and he fell silent. Replacing her finger with her lips she kissed him, stroking his cheek softly. Spike responded immediately. Opening his mouth the moment he felt her tongue brush against his lips, he deepened the kiss.

Stroking her back he pulled her closer, before running his hand down to the roundness of her buttocks, squeezing and kneading the firm flesh.

She groaned loudly at the feel of his hard body and, when he drew one of her legs up over his hip, she arched against him. Rolling them so she was on top, straddling his waist, she pressed down into his hardness, delighting in the soft growls that emanated from him.

Spike’s hands skittered over her body, wanting to touch her everywhere at once. With a quick yank he pulled her top over her head, throwing it on the floor, before pulling her back down so he could plunder the recesses of her mouth.

Pulling away from him, Buffy bent to lick and nip at his neck. Spike threw his head back, arching his body into hers.

Suddenly desperate to feel her surrounding him Spike flipped them over. Sliding down her body he sucked at her hard nipples. Teasing them with his teeth and tongue. Meanwhile, his searching hands found her pyjama pants and pushed them down over her hips. Eager to help, Buffy kicked them off and then used her nimble legs to assist him in ridding himself of his sweatpants.

Finally naked they each turned their attention back to each other. Their mouths fused as they sought to get closer. Whimpering with need Buffy wrapped her slender legs around Spike’s waist. Opening herself to him in anticipation.

Groaning in pleasure at her invitation, Spike held her close as he sank slowly into her depths. Gritting his teeth at the heat that enveloped him he held still for a moment, fighting for control.

Feeling her squirming beneath him he opened his eyes to find her in the throes of pleasure. Her kiss-swollen lips were parted on a quiet moan. Her eyes were closed as she concentrated on the feelings pulsing through her. Slowly her head thrashed from side to side.

Still watching her, he began to move. Rhythmically pulling out of her body only to plunge back into her. Soon she began to move with him, curling her hips as he thrust into her. Gripping his buttocks in an attempt to push him deeper.

“Oh God Buffy,” his hoarse shout was muffled as he dropped his head into the curve of her neck. Her passion filled cries rang in his ears as she moved beneath him in wild abandon. Their movements becoming frenzied as they clashed in passionate fury.

Spike felt Buffy beginning to spasm around him, her muscles milking him as she came screaming his name. Clutching her tightly he gave himself up to his own release, his body shuddering in completion.

**********

Spike ran his fingers lazily through Buffy’s hair, enjoying the feel of the soft golden strands sliding through his fingers. They lay side by side on the bed. Their limbs entangled, faces scant inches apart on the pillow. Their breathing had long since returned to normal but neither made a move to rise. Buffy watched him with a dreamy smile curving her lips. Her green eyes sparkling in contentment.

“Can I tell you a secret?” she whispered.

Spike smiled at her teasing tone. “Anything.”

“I missed you.” Her voice was quiet but he could hear the emotion behind her words.

“You were with me you know,” he told her. He saw her puzzled look and tried to explain. “When the pain got bad I would close my eyes and pretend I was somewhere else. To disconnect from what they were doing to my body. Whenever I did that, I found you waiting for me. You kept me sane Buffy.”

A tear escaped from the corner of her eye as she again touched the healing mark on his chest. “The way they hurt you. I’ve never seen anything like it. It must have been awful.”

“Hey.” Spike lifted her chin with one finger. “It’s over now.” He kissed her gently, running his tongue languorously over her bottom lip as she sighed into his caress.

Reluctantly pulling back Buffy sat up, turning to look down at him. “Now we just have to figure out what to do about Riley and the rest of The Initiative.”
 
Chapter Ten
 
Chapter Ten

Buffy strode down the crowded hallway with quick forceful steps. She knew Riley would be leaving for morning classes in a few minutes and she was determined to catch him before he left. Reaching his dorm room Buffy pounded loudly on the door, ignoring the strange looks she received from passing students.

“Alright, alright,” Riley muttered as he opened the door. When he saw Buffy standing before him a look of resignation crossed his features. “Buffy.”

She smiled up at him sweetly. “Good morning Riley,” she crooned before punching him hard in the nose. He cried out in pain, stumbling back into the room. She followed him inside, swinging the door shut behind her.

“Just thought I’d drop by for a chat,” she remarked casually as she waited for him to recover from her greeting.

Riley glared at her as he held a handkerchief to his bleeding nose. “What do you want Buffy?”

“I want to know what you and your buddies think you’re doing in my town.”

Riley laughed snidely. “So Spike found you before we found him. I figured he’d be looking for you. Had someone watching your dorm but it seems you failed to come home last night.”

Buffy gasped at his words. “You’ve been spying on me?” she cried indignantly.

“I’ve been searching for an escaped hostile,” he countered.

They stared at each other angrily for a few moments. Then Riley spoke. “What did he tell you?”

“Everything,” she replied coldly. “About The Initiative. The underground facility. The prison cells. The drugging. The torture. The experiments.” Her anger grew with every charge added to the list of atrocities. “What the hell are you people thinking?”

“Come on Buffy,” Riley argued. “They’re demons. Evil, plain and simple.”

“And you’re what? Good and kind? I saw what your people did to Spike. It made me sick.”

Riley pointed a finger at her accusingly. “You kill demons every night and now you’re going to…what…defend their right to ethical treatment?”

Buffy just shook her head in disgust. “You’re right Riley. I do kill demons. It’s my calling and I do it so my mother can leave the house in safety at night. But you do not see me beating them to a pulp first. I don’t dissect them just to see how much they’ll bleed. I don’t render them completely defenceless with computer chips and then leave them alive.” Stabbing him with a cold glare she continued, “And I sure as hell don’t try to harvest their strengths and abilities for my own purposes.”

“That’s what you think we’re doing?” he challenged.

“Oh please,” Buffy countered, rolling her eyes at him. “Give me a little credit why don’t you.”

After a tense moment Riley shrugged. “So you know. What do you think you can do about it? We’re a government-funded organisation Buffy. You even try to close us down and you’ll end up in a whole mess of trouble. The kind you can’t punch your way out of.”

Recognising the truth of his words only made her angrier at the whole foolish mess. “You people have no idea what you’re dealing with,” she ground out angrily. “Do you honestly think you can keep control of this? Spike escaped, others will too. You’re playing with forces you don’t understand and you’re all going to get yourselves killed.”

“Why is that Buffy?” Riley asked. “Because we’re not slayers?” He laughed at her contemptuously. “We’re trained soldiers with weaponry you’ve never even heard of. We’ll do a lot more for this town than your little scooby gang ever has.”

“You arrogant prick,” Buffy said quietly, seething with rage. Walking up to him she made sure to hold his gaze steady as she spoke. “I may not be able to shut down The Initiative. But I can sure as hell put a big dent in your operation and I plan to. Every demon you hold down there is already a threat to this town. You won’t be taking anymore.”

“You’re one person Buffy,” he replied scathingly. “You can’t stop all of us.”

Buffy raised an eyebrow and flashed him a knowing smile. “Can’t I?” She took a moment to enjoy the sudden wariness in his eyes before she turning to leave.

“Oh and just one more thing,” she said, pausing at the door. “Stay away from Spike.”

Riley’s eyes narrowed. “You’re protecting vampires now?”

“Your scientists put something in his head. He can’t hurt anyone now. Is that true?”

Riley nodded stiffly. “It’s a standard precautionary measure. But it doesn’t change what he is Buffy.”

“I know that.” Buffy pierced him with a glare. “But if he’s no longer a threat to humans then I no longer have the right to kill him. And I sure as hell well won’t let him fall into your hands again.”

Riley sneered at her. “How convenient for you and your demon lover.”

Buffy didn’t bother denying her relationship with Spike, realising she no longer gave a damn what Riley thought. Instead she settled on a simple promise. “If anything happens to him I will come after you personally. And I will bring you down.”

**********

When Buffy returned home she found the gang gathered in the lounge room. Willow and Xander had taken up residence on the couch, while Giles sat across from them. She had to stifle a giggle when she saw Spike, now back in his own clothes, retied to the dining room chair. He did not look happy.

Entering the room she shot Spike an apologetic shrug. “Hi guys,” she greeted the group quickly before heading for the kitchen.

“Buffy,” Giles called out to her, frowning in concern. “I thought you were going to keep Spike restrained till we found out more about what’s going on. I found him wandering the house free when I arrived.”

“Relax Giles,” Buffy reassured him, returning with a sharp knife. She quickly cut through the ropes binding Spike. “He can’t hurt anyone.”

“It’s about bloody time you showed up Slayer,” Spike muttered angrily as he rose from the chair. Turning to the others he glared at them each in turn, an evil glint in his eyes. “When I get this chip out of my head I’m gonna drain every one of you till there’s nothing left and then I’m gonna dance a merry jig on your graves.”

Surprised by the vehemence of his outburst Buffy could only stare at him as he stalked from the room.

“Oh yeah,” Xander piped up. “He’s just as friendly as a kitten now. No danger there.”

Sighing, Buffy began to fill them in on her conversation with Riley and before long the four of them were planning for the long nights they knew lay ahead.
 
Chapter Eleven
 
Chapter Eleven

The sun was setting when Buffy found Spike sitting on the back steps smoking a cigarette. She sat beside him, looking out into the darkening night.

“Cutting it a bit close aren’t you? It’s barely on the far side of dusk.”

“After so many sunsets?” Spike replied as he continued to stare pensively at the ground in front of him. “I know when it’s safe, right down to the second.”

Concerned by his despondent mood Buffy placed a hand over his, comforted when he laced is fingers with hers and squeezed gently.

“Will you tell me what’s wrong?” She sat quietly, watching as he struggled for the words. She knew this situation was hard on him and found herself wanting to be there for him.

“I never regretted becoming a vampire Buffy. I was strong, powerful, more than I could ever have been as a human. I was William the Bloody, Slayer of Slayers, known throughout the world as one of the biggest bads walking the earth. And now look at me.” Tossing away his cigarette he finally turned to face her. “Today I was overpowered by an over-the-hill ex-librarian and a pair of teenagers. I’m drinking pig’s blood from a novelty mug. I’m a sitting duck for anyone that feels like having a go. Hell, Xander could take me out right now.”

Buffy sighed, both saddened and discomforted by his words. “I’m not going to say I’m sorry this has happened to you because I’d be lying. I’m not sorry that you can’t kill people. I feel bad that you’re hurting but I’m not sorry that I don’t have to try to kill you every time we meet.”

“Yeah, cause you know you were doing a lousy job there,” he joked, managing to crack a small smile.

“What can I say,” Buffy teasingly replied. “In you I met my match.”

“In more ways than one hey pet?” He cocked an eyebrow at her, his gaze sliding down over her body.

Buffy snorted at his lack of subtlety.

Turning serious again Spike reached out a hand to cup her face. “There’s only one good thing to come out of this you know.”

Her breath caught in her throat as she asked, “What’s that?”

“Well love,” he replied, “we may not be on the same side exactly. But at least we aren’t on opposite sides anymore. That’s got to be a step in the right direction.”

The corners of her mouth lifted slightly at his blunt assessment of the situation. “Look Spike,” she started, frowning as she tried to express herself clearly. “I don’t know what’s going on between us. I don’t know what will happen next. I certainly don’t know how to deal with your not having a soul.”

“What do you know pet?” He cut her off when she paused to take a breath.

Suddenly still, she looked at him with wide, frightened eyes as she whispered, “I know that I don’t want to stop.”

Impelled by her words Spike leaned forward to press his mouth to hers, probing the depths of her honeyed mouth with his tongue. Her hands latched onto him, pulling him closer. It was several minutes before they parted, breathing heavily, still locked in each other’s arms.

Resting her forehead against his she groaned in frustration. “I should get back inside. I have a lot of work to do tonight.”

“What happens tonight?” Spike asked, puzzled.

“Tonight I start the offensive against The Initiative,” she explained as they stood and walked back into the house. “There’s no way I can attack the facility itself without putting everybody in a crap load of danger. But I can stop them from increasing their demon numbers.”

“So that’s the plan? Get to the demons before they do?”

Buffy shrugged. “Unless we can come up with something better it will have to do. Willow’s going to use a locator spell to help me find the demons that are closest to the campus. That should give me the advantage.”

“I’m coming with you,” Spike stated matter-of-factly.

Buffy tossed a puzzled look over her shoulder. “What? Why?”

Grabbing onto her arm he stopped her, forcing her to face him. “You’re the slayer. That means strength, agility, prophetic visions, sub-conscious awareness of demons, everything that comes with being a slayer. Riley knows all of it. They could come after you.”

“Don’t be ridiculous,” she replied, scoffing at his concern. “I didn’t even know they existed until yesterday. If they wanted me they’d have me by now.”

“Riley’s in love with you and you broke up with him. He’s pissed as all hell and willing to take it out on us. He might not have told them about you before but he’s sure to now. You think they wouldn’t kill for the chance to get their hands on you?”

Fear crossed her face like a shadow before disappearing behind her usual appearance of self-confidence. Turning to head back to the lounge room she muttered, “I can take care of myself.”

“Let me help,” Spike urged emphatically just as they rejoined the others.

At his words three heads looked up, matching expressions of bewilderment in place.

Exasperated, Buffy chose to ignore them for the moment and turned to face the vampire. “Spike you can’t fight.”

“But I’ll smell and hear the soldier boys coming before you do. Plus I can help you find the demons.”

“Why on earth would you want to help Spike?” Giles asked incredulously. “What do you think you’ll get out of this?”

Spike glanced at Buffy and saw the almost imperceptible shake of her head, her eyes anxiously darting between him and her friends. “Those bastards are the ones that did this to me,” he told Giles forcefully. “If I get to mess with them, even if it’s through her,” he gestured to Buffy, “then I’m in.”

Looking less than convinced Giles stared at the vampire thoughtfully before conceding, “Alright. If Buffy is happy to let you tag along I see no harm.”

“No harm?!” Xander cried out. “Buffy he’s an evil vampire-”

“That can’t hurt me or anyone else,” Buffy interjected. “Plus he has a point. I can’t hunt and fight demons and concentrate on evading the soldiers at the same time. He could prove useful.” Buffy focused on Willow. “Okay witch girl. What do you say we get this show on the road.”

Spike just sat back and smiled smugly at Xander, delighting in the young man’s scowl.
 
Chapter Twelve
 
Chapter Twelve

“Can you hear them at all? Smell them?”

Spike looked around, concentrating on his heightened senses. “No. I think that demon Willow saw out here is getting close though.”

“Good. Last one for the night, finally.”

They passed through a row of tall bushes only to find themselves standing in front of two demons. Two demons, Buffy thought with an inward groan. Crap! Deciding not to give them time to get over the surprise of having the slayer suddenly appear out of the foliage, she launched a violent assault.

“Any idea of the best way to kill these guys?” she shouted to Spike as she threw one demon to the ground and spun around to take on his companion. “Throat? Heart?” She swept one leg deftly between the demon’s legs, satisfied when it howled in pain. “Family jewels?” As the demon fell to its knees, clutching its groin, Buffy snapped its neck. Then she shrugged. “That worked.”

“Not for long slayer,” Spike chimed in from the sidelines. “You have to get the heart, same as a vampire, or he’ll get up again.”

“Great,” Buffy growled, dodging a right hook from the second demon. “I’ll get right on that.”

Spike kept his eyes on the fallen demon and his ears on the surrounding area. There was no way he was going to get distracted from his task of keeping Buffy safe from The Initiative.

As the fallen demon stirred, cricking his neck back into place, Spike glanced at the slayer. She still had her hands full. The demon she fought was bigger and stronger than the one at his feet. It was obviously taking everything she had to keep him from gaining the upper hand.

“Ah slayer?” Spike called as the smaller demon stumbled to its feet. “Remember that part about this one getting up again?”

“I’m coming,” Buffy kicked the taller demon in the throat. “Just give me a minute.”

The now standing demon looked clumsily around and spotted Buffy fighting its companion. With a guttural growl it hobbled forward, still clutching its sore groin.

Spike strolled along beside it. “Time to finish up there love. He’s on his way.”

Buffy grunted in frustration. “Spike I’m trying.”

Seeing Buffy was still I the thick of it with the larger demon, Spike watched the smaller one draw closer. With something akin to shock he realised that she was actually in danger. Cursing softly he wracked his brain for a way to help her that wouldn’t cause his brain to feel like it was exploding.

Coming up empty he gritted his teeth and stepped in front of the smaller demon as it was approaching Buffy’s unprotected back. “Alright pissant. This is going to hurt me more than it hurts you. But then I’ll walk away so I guess I’ll still be one up on you.”

Dropping into a fighting stance Spike knew he only had one shot at this. The moment he hit the demon he’d be on the ground screaming in agony, so he had to make that one strike count. It was the heart or nothing.

Determination rippled through him as he dodged a few poorly thrown punches, inching closer to the demon’s torso. Then, gritting his teeth against the coming pain, he thrust his fist forward. Feeling his fingers close around the demon’s heart he twisted and pulled. It beat in his hand once. Twice. Then, as the body of the demon hit the ground, both the demon and the heart disintegrated into a green gelatinous mess.

Spike blinked. No pain. Confused, he stared at the gooey remains of the demon he’d just killed with his bare hands, then shook his head slightly. Definitely no pain. Realisation hit him like a lightening bold: He could kill demons.

He could kill demons!

With a joyful whooping sound Spike spun around to find Buffy still grappling with the larger demon. Intercepting as she was thrown to the ground, Spike began to rain blow after blow down on the unsuspecting demon. He fought with the ferocity of a starved lion that had finally been set free from its cage. Within minutes the larger demon was worn down. As it attempted the flee Spike sprung onto its back. Throwing an arm over its shoulder he plunged his hand into the demon’s chest and ripped out its heart. As the demon crumpled Spike leapt away, narrowly escaping the cascade of goo that splattered on the ground.

Grinning excitedly Spike cleaned off his hand on the grass and turned back to Buffy, who was still sitting on the ground where she’d fallen, with her mouth hanging open. Laughing raucously he picked her up and spun her around before planting a loud smacking kiss on her lips.

Frowning, Buffy looked up at him warily. “What happened to the chip?”

“Nothing. They weren’t human. I guess the chip must only work for humans.” He said it as if it was the greatest discovery in the world. And as far as he was concerned it was.

“So you can hurt demons?”

Spike smiled happily. “Apparently so.” Still giddy from his bout of violence Spike found himself wanting yet more action. Restless energy was suddenly pounding through him and with both enemies dispatched his thoughts were quick to turn to action of a different nature. Growling softly he pulled Buffy against him. His hands wandered over her body, stroking and kneading her skin.

“Wait a minute,” Buffy pulled away, trying not to show how affected she was by his touch. “So you can kill demons. But you still can’t hurt humans?”

Spike nodded quickly, more interested in nuzzling her neck then continuing the conversation. “Don’t worry love. No need to go back to pretending you’re trying to kill me any time soon.”

“Hey! I was trying to kill you.” She did her best to look offended but came off as teasing.

Spike smiled, amused by her half-hearted indignation. “Course you were love.”

Buffy suddenly pulled back to look him in the eyes. "You were willing to go through that pain to save me."

Spike shrugged nonchalantly.

Buffy smiled at his sudden reluctance to admit it. “Hey Spike?” she asked, running her hands down his chest. “I’ve heard rumours of a nest of vampires on Baker Street. Want to go indulge in a little gratuitous violence?”

When she waggled her eyebrows at him Spike growled in pleasure. Sliding his hands down over her arse he jerked her hard against him, grounding his hips against hers as he leaned forward to tug on her bottom lip with his teeth. “Lead the way love. Lead the way.”

**********

The moment Buffy got the door open she pulled Spike inside and slammed it behind them. Shoving him against it she pressed the length of her body against him. Need clawed at her insides and she raised one leg over his hip in an effort to get closer, whimpering when the hardness of the wooden door prevented her from wrapping it around his waist.

Spike walked her backward toward the staircase. “You sure your Mum won’t be home tonight?”

“Positive.” Buffy grinned wickedly as her fingers stole under his shirt to score his chest with sharp fingernails. “She’s not back till Tuesday.”

Pulling him back to her Buffy plundered the recesses of his mouth, wanting to taste every inch of him she could reach. Spike stumbled on a step and they both went down, landing sprawled on the steps with a grunt. They both laughed, but never slowed their frantic explorations of each others bodies. Buffy revelled at the feel of his weight on top of her, even as the edge of the steps dug into her back.

“I guess that just leaves one more question.” Spike said with a wry grin.

Buffy gasped as he lowered her shirt, baring one nipple which he laved with his tongue. “What’s that?”

“How much noise can we make before someone calls the cops?”

Laughing throatily Buffy simultaneously bit down hard on his neck and bucked up against his rigid arousal, enjoying his rather vocal response, before rasping in his ear, “Let’s find out.”

 
Chapter Thirteen
 
Chapter Thirteen

“Thank God there’s only one tonight.”

“Tell me about it,” Spike agreed. “There are many things I’d rather be doing tonight, and I want to be doing all of them to you.” As he spoke he trailed one fingertip down her neck, brushing over the scar from where he bit her on that first night.

Buffy shivered, feeling her insides clench pleasurably as the scar tingled at his touch. Eagerly she turned into his arms, pressing a lingering kiss upon his full lips. Groaning in frustration she pulled aw ay and continued walking. “This whole you living with Giles thing sucks. Mom is back from her trip and I share the dorm with Willow. Even your crypt is out with The Initiative still after you. There’s no place for us to…be alone.”

“Well you know Giles doesn’t keep me chained to the bathtub anymore. I do have a room now, however begrudgingly it was given.” He slid his arms around her waist from behind and purred in her ear. “It’s got a comfy bed.”

Buffy snorted. “And what would Giles think of me disappearing into your room for hours at a time?”

Spike stopped walking and spoke somewhat tentatively. “He’d think we were sleeping together pet.”

Turning to face him with a panicked expression Buffy hissed, “Are you crazy? He can’t know that!”

“I know I’m not exactly his first choice for you Buffy but he’d get over it.”

“Get over it?” Buffy shrieked, forgetting that she was supposed to be quiet. “Spike you’re a vampire.”

Spike raised an eyebrow. “Angel was a vampire.”

“Angel had a soul.”

“And I have a chip.”

“It’s not the same.”

Buffy cringed at the pregnant silence that followed that little declaration. Spike just stared at her, his blue eyes speaking volumes.

“So what is this is you?” he finally asked, his voice low but intense. “Am I just a convenient fuck till another Riley Finn comes along? Or until the chip stops working and you can kill me with a clear conscience?”

“Don’t be ridiculous,” Buffy argued, uncomfortable with being put on the spot regarding her feelings.

“Then tell me Buffy. What is this to you?”

“I don’t know, okay?” Buffy relented, throwing her hands in the air. “I never expected this to happen and I don’t understand it. I’m just as confused by the whole thing as you are.”

Spike squeezed his eyes shut for a moment, reeling from her words. When he opened them again he held her gaze as he said quietly, “That’s just it pet. I’m not confused. I’m not confused at all.” Walking closer to her he cupped her cheek gently. “I’m in love with you Buffy.”

Buffy’s eyes widened with shock. Her heart thundered in her chest. The sincerity on his face, as he patiently awaited her response, was undeniable. She was pulled toward him, as if by an invisible thread. Tears began to prick the backs of her eyes as her emotions got the better of her. She had no idea what she was going to say but she had the feeling that whatever it was, it would change her life forever. “Spike–“

A twig snapped somewhere to the left of them. Two blonde heads swung instantly toward the sound and their bodies tensed in preparation for an attack.

“Demon or human?” Buffy asked.

Spike paused for a moment, drawing on his preternatural senses. “Feels demony.”

“Guess this is the guy we’ve been looking for then.”

“Saved by the snapping twig hey pet?” Spike quipped sardonically.

Buffy threw him a look before heading toward the origin of the sound. “Come on.”

Not far away Buffy spied a tall demon trying to sneak off into the darkness. He would have looked like a regular person, Buffy noted, if it wasn’t for the green skin and horns.

“Leaving so soon?” she called out, smiling a little when the demon stopped immediately, standing stock still.

“That’s better,” Buffy continued. “Now if only all the demons would simply stop when I asked it would simple things up so much.”

Spike appeared suddenly beside her, having dawdled while she ran. When he saw the demon he frowned. “Mac?”

The demon turned to look hesitantly over his shoulder. “Spike?”

“Yeah mate.” Spike wandered over, leaving Buffy to follow him with a confused frown. “What are you doing skulking around at this time of night?”

Mac glanced nervously at Buffy.

“It’s alright Mac,” Spike assured the anxious looking demon. “The slayer’s with me.”

“Oh. Okay.” Mac nodded vigorously, though the fact obviously gave him little comfort. “I’m leaving Spike. And I won’t be back.”

Spike frowned. “Why?”

“It’s not safe. There’s army lookin’ guys running around. The slayer is killing demons left and right.” Mac said this last quietly, with an anxious glance in Buffy’s direction.

“Just the evil ones,” Buffy argued.

Spike raised an eyebrow at her. “Gave them each a personality test did you pet?”

Buffy rolled her eyes.

“There’s something else out there too Spike,” Mac interrupted. “Not demon. Not human. They say it cuts up anything that stumbles into its path.”

Spike and Buffy looked at each other in surprise.

“You know anything else about this…creature?”

Mac shook his head.

“How are you heading out?” Spike asked.

“There’s a tunnel under the old caretaker’s house on the east side of the cemetery. A buddy of mine is going to meet me there and help me get to L.A.”

“We’ll help you.”

They both looked at Buffy in shock.

“What?” she asked irritably. “Look obviously you aren’t out to kill all humans or bring about Armageddon or anything so I’m not going to hurt you. But The Initiative will. So we’ll escort you to the house where you’ll meet your friend.”

Taken aback, Mac smiled gratefully. “Thanks.”

**********

As Spike and Buffy watched Mac and his friend disappear into the darkness of the tunnel Buffy looked up at Spike with troubled eyes.

“I haven’t had a clear conscience since the day I was chosen as the slayer,” she admitted quietly. “I’ve killed harmless demons like Mac. I must have. But I can’t stop to wonder if every demon I come across is part of the harmless minority. I have to just go with my instinct and hope it’s right. I was chosen to protect humans and if I let a demon live and it goes on to harm a human…” Stopping suddenly she shook her head sadly. “Either way, my conscience will never be clear.”

Regretting his earlier words, Spike drew her into his arms. “I know baby.”

Buffy snuggled deeper in Spike’s embrace, struck by the irony that her vampire lover was consoling her over hurting innocent demons. Somehow, it still managed to feel right.

When Spike stiffened suddenly Buffy looked up at him with a frown. “What’s wrong?”

“Soldeirs.” Jerking out of her arms Spike closed the secret door that hid the entrance to the tunnel and together they repositioned an old dresser in front of the door to conceal it.

Hearing the front door burst open Buffy grabbed Spike’s hand and dragged him over to a built-in cupboard. They slid the door closed just as an armed soldier entered the room. Ducking low behind some boxes they listened anxiously as the soldier searched the room, holding their breath when he opened and closed the cupboard door. Thank God for underpaid personnel, Buffy thought with relief. They never fail to do a lousy job.

“There’s no one here sir,” the soldier said formally.

“Damn. They must have gone around the house.” Riley’s irritated voice was instantly recognised by the couple in the cupboard and Buffy saw Spike’s jaw tense in the dim light.

“Alright. Let’s set up the map here and we’ll figure out our next move.”

Spike was practically vibrating in anger that Buffy knew had no hope of being satisfied. Gently she placed her hand on his jaw, wanting to ease his frustration. His eyes snapped to hers and she shivered at the intensity of feeling in his eyes.

Moving closer she took his head between her hands and pressed a kiss to his lips. Suddenly she found herself crushed in his embrace. His strong arms enveloped her and he nudged her against the back wall of the cupboard.

Buffy had to remind herself to be silent as his hands began to explore her body, one sliding underneath her skirt to draw her leg up around his waist. Spike’s lips trailed down her neck where he latched onto the scar he’d given her and sucked hard. His hand closed over her mouth to stifle her moan and Buffy sucked one of his fingers into her mouth.

Working her hands between their bodies Buffy undid Spike pants, drawing his hard length out of its confines. Then, moving her thong aside she positioned him at her entrance, her mouth falling open in a silent groan when he slid into her welcoming body.

Outside they could still hear the murmur of Riley’s voice and that of his soldiers. But in their darkened hiding place the silence was broken only by the sound of their breathing. Spike raised his head and their gazes locked. The feel of their bodies undulating together sent waves of pleasure through Buffy’s body and she could feel an explosive orgasm approaching.

A sudden shout on the other side of the door sounded as Riley berated the soldier who had sworn he saw Buffy, Spike and the unknown hostile enter the house. At the sound of his voice Spike’s handsome features rippled and shifted until only the vampire remained. He dropped his head onto Buffy’s shoulder, as if he didn’t want her to see him that way. Buffy reached up to lift his head again. Sliding her tongue into his mouth she nicked it on one of his fangs, relishing the way he sucked it into his mouth to capture every drop of blood. Realising that Spike could taste her blood as long as he had no intention of hurting her, Buffy tilted her head back, directing his mouth downward. As Spike lapped and sucked on her neck, Buffy writhed in his arms, the rolling of her hips increasing as she ground herself harder against him. Holding his head firmly against her neck she pressed her body close, wordlessly encouraging him to draw her deeper into his mouth.

Spike was going wild at the feel of her. Her wet heat clenched, trapping him inside of her. Her breasts rubbed against his chest as if her bare skin instinctively sought his. Her hand clamped his head to her soft neck in blatant invitation. He could practically smell her blood as it rushed through her veins just below the surface. Even as his head screamed at him in warning, he could feel himself losing control. He sucked at her voraciously, his tongue laving her skin, his fangs dragging longingly over her delicate skin.

When the first drops of blood trickled into his mouth he froze in shock. No pain. He sank a little deeper, biting back a groan at her breathy gasp. Still no pain. Unable to hold back any longer he sank his fangs deeply into her throat, his hips bucking up into her as her rich thick slayer blood filled his mouth.

Feeling her body begin to convulse around him Spike growled softly. His orgasm, when it came, was ripped from the depths of his being. He felt as if he was pouring everything he was into her, giving what little was left of life inside him to her. He knew then that he would never leave her. He would never walk away. Not even if she asked him to. She’d have to kill him first.

Feeling his human face returning he withdrew his retracting fangs carefully from her neck. The last of her blood slid down his throat and he licked her neck clean, nuzzling her lovingly.

The house beyond their cupboard was silent, and they both realised Riley and his soldiers must have left while they were…occupied.

Looking up into Spike’s face with glazed eyes Buffy smiled and whispered, “I love you too Spike.”
 
Chapter Fourteen
 
Chapter Fourteen

When Buffy walked into Giles’ house the next afternoon they found Giles and Spike hunched over the morning paper.

“What’s going on guys?”

Spike rose from his seat. “You remember Mac talked about some new beastie that was dissecting things?”

Buffy gulped, knowing that whatever he said next, it wouldn’t be good. “Yeah, I remember.”

“It got a little boy. Took him apart piece by piece.”

“Oh God.” Buffy could feel the blood draining from her face and she sunk down into a chair. “Why would it do that?”

“Research.”

Buffy looked at Giles in disgust. “What?”

“I don’t know why but whatever this creature is, it was definitely studying this boy’s anatomy. It was very precise. It seems to want to learn about the different creatures it comes across.”

“Well school is out,” Buffy said with a steely voice. “Tonight it dies.”

**********

“This is ridiculous,” Buffy snapped angrily. “How can no one know where this thing is hiding? It has to be somewhere.”

“We’ll find it. Don’t worry.”

“If it hurts anyone else I swear to God I’ll–”

Spike grabbed Buffy’s arm and she jerked to a halt, stopping mid-sentence.

“Soldiers up ahead,” Spike said quietly.

Buffy paused for a moment before saying. “Good.”

Raising an eyebrow Spike stared at her in surprise. “Good?”

“Yeah. Maybe they know something about this creature.” Turning to Spike she told him firmly, “I’m going to go talk to them. Stay here out of sight. I’ll come back for you when I’m done.”

Spike shook his head vehemently. “Yeah right. Cause I’m just your obedient puppy. I’m not letting you face them alone.”

Smiling sweetly Buffy cupped his cheek in her hand. “And what would you do if they pulled something?”

Gritting his teeth Spike growled in frustration. “I’d think of something,” he declared. “I won’t let you go alone.”

“Well well.” The mocking sound of Riley’s voice interrupted them. “It’s the so-called Slayer and her demon lover.”

Buffy and Spike faced Riley as his men spread out around them, and Buffy cursed when she realised the decision had been taken out of their hands. “Hello Riley.”

Brandishing his gun in front of him Riley smiled smugly. “And here I thought you were avoiding me.”

“We were,” Buffy agreed easily. “You’re only seeing us now because we choose to let you.”

Snorting, Riley asked, “So what do you want?”

“A creature. Not demon, not human. It dissected a kid last night. I want it dead. If you have any information on it I would like that information now.”

Riley’s gaze wavered and Buffy knew she’d hit pay dirt. He knew something.

“That boy was just seven years old Riley. I need to stop it before it hurts anyone else.”

Seeming to come to a decision Riley dropped his aggressive stance and sighed heavily. “We’re after him too alright?”

Buffy’s eyes lit up. “You said him.”

Riley nodded. “His name is Adam. He’s some kind of human-demon hybrid. He’s powered by a uranium cell in his chest. He’s strong Buffy, and smart. He has the strength and defence mechanisms of ten demons.”

“Ohhh this is just perfect…you bastard,” Spike suddenly spoke from behind Buffy.

Turning around she sent him a questioning frown but he was still glaring at Riley.

“You built him didn’t you,” Spike said accusingly. “A hybrid with the defences of ten demons. That’s what you said.”

“Ugh.” Buffy cringed in disgust as she realised what Spike was implying. “You made him from parts?”

“He’s a failed experiment created by a rogue scientist without permission,” Riley said in his own defence. “We didn’t know this was happening.”

“And that’s supposed to make it okay? Do you still think you’re doing the right thing? That all these experiments on demons are for the betterment of mankind?” Buffy asked him incredulously. “Doesn’t this make you wonder what else is going on down there?”

“I am the only one of my kind.”

All heads turned at the deep voice that came out of the darkness. When Adam stepped from the shadows Buffy shuddered in revulsion. She’d never seen anything like him. Looking at his mostly human face she couldn’t help but wonder who he had been. The man whose body had been desecrated for this. She hoped his family never found out what became of his remains.

“It seems to be a common flaw among intelligent creatures,” Adam commented with interest. “This fighting among yourselves, even while working toward a common goal.”

“What is your goal?” Buffy asked, hoping to learn more about what Adam was trying to accomplish.

“To understand,” he replied.

“Understand what? You think cutting up little kids is going to tell you the secrets of life?” Buffy felt Spike’s hand close around her arm in warning and she took a deep breath, trying to calm the anger inside her.

“It is the instinct of every intelligent being to wonder about its origin. The boy was simply a piece of the puzzle, no more.”

Rage filled Buffy at his complete dismissal of the life he had taken and she attacked, with Spike right behind her. Suddenly chaos reigned as Riley barked orders at his men, determined to be ready when they had a clear shot at Adam.

Adam easily deflected Buffy’s blows. Lifting her as if she weighted nothing, he threw her bodily into Spike, sending them both crashing to the ground in a tangle of limbs. Turning, he then disappeared into the night as quietly as he had appeared.

“Quickly!” Riley snapped. “We have to take him down tonight.” The soldiers ran off after Adam, the sound of pounding feet quickly fading as they departed.

Finding that he and Buffy were now alone again he looked down at the unconscious slayer with concern. He quickly felt along her limbs, finding no broken bones. Sighing in relief, he lifted her from the ground and carried her in the direction of Giles’ house.

“Don’t worry love,” he muttered. “I’ll take care of you.”
 
Chapter Fifteen
 
Chapter Fifteen

“No.”

“What do you mean no?”

“I mean I’m not letting you do it.”

“Not letting me? How are you gonna stop me?”

She had him there. If Buffy wanted them to split in order to catch both of the demons they’d spent the better part of the night tracking there wasn’t really much he could do about it. But that didn’t mean he couldn’t argue with her. He kind of liked arguing with her.

“Remember what happened last time? When you went up against Adam? You ended up unconscious.”

“Oh please,” Buffy scoffed. “It was just a bit of a knock to the head. I’m fine.” Seeing the worry in his eyes she smiled sweetly at him. “Look, Adam is extremely powerful and that’s something we will have to deal with when we find him. But Spike, this is just a piddly little demon with the IQ of a dog. I think I can handle it.”

Sighing loudly Spike cricked his neck to release some pent-up frustration. Conceding defeat, he was still determined to make his point. Wagging a finger in her face he demanded, “You be careful. With Adam still on the loose and you spoiling their schedule The Initiative have soldiers lurking behind every tree.”

Touched by his concern Buffy leaned forward to kiss the tip of the finger that was wagging in her face. “You’re cute when you’re protective.”

Spike adopted the sternest expression he could, considering his finger was still tingling from her unexpected kiss. “Yeah well, we can get to that later. Right now, let’s get this over with shall we?”

Buffy smirked at him. “Absolutely. We’ll meet back here and then we can get on with hunting for Adam.”

Nodding, Spike dropped a quick kiss on her lips before they headed quickly in opposite directions.

**********

The demon Buffy had gone after was lying dead at his feet. She’d obviously taken him down easily; there was barely any evidence of a fight. So where the hell was she?

Frowning, Spike looked around, searching for some clue as to what had happened. When he saw nothing he closed his eyes and concentrated on his enhanced sense of smell. After a few moments he opened his eyes and began to move, following Buffy’s unique scent. It didn’t take him long to realise where he was heading and with every step he took a sense of foreboding grew within him. The college campus. Buffy had agreed to meet back up with him as soon as she’d slain the demon. She knew the dangers of patrolling without him right now; especially in this area.

Riley. The name thundered through Spike’s brain and he turned immediately toward Giles’ house, a soft growl emanating from his chest. Weapons. He needed weapons and he needed help. He might not be able to fight humans himself but he’d be damned if he’d let them lay a finger on his girl.

**********

Spike burst through Giles’ door wearing a scowl blacker than his outfit. Heading straight for the weapon’s cupboard he barely spared a glance for the occupants of the room. “Weapons all round people. We’re leaving in 30 seconds.”

When Giles, Xander and Willow just sat there staring at him in bewilderment he paused long enough to announce, “They got her.”

“What?!” Giles cried in dismay. “What happened? You were supposed to make sure they never found her.”

“She insisted we split up to take down the two demons Red found faster. I tried to talk her out of it but she wouldn’t listen. After I killed the demon I was following I went looking for her. Buffy killed her demon alright, but she was nowhere to be found. I followed her scent in the direction of the college campus. She wouldn’t have gone off without me. Riley has her, I just know it.”

Xander glared at Spike. “You bastard! You let Riley get to her, didn’t you. I knew you’d stab her in the back the moment it was turned.”

“I would never betray her.” Blinded by fury Spike swung at Xander without thought. They both howled in pain as Spike’s fist connected with Xander’s jaw, setting off the chip in his skull. “Ahhh, damn it!” Spike clutched at his head until the pain began to ease. Looking up he saw the confusion on Giles’ and Willow’s faces and he snapped. “Stop staring and mount up. We’re getting her back. Now!”

“Spike slow down.” Giles tried to reason with him. “If we go in there half-cocked we’ll never get to her before they stop us.”

Shaking his head Spike tramped toward the door. “I don’t care. I’m going.”

“Why are you so–?” Stopping abruptly Giles stared at Spike in shock. “Oh bloody hell,” he exclaimed suddenly. “You’re in love with her aren’t you?”

Stopping in his tracks Spike slowly turned around, prepared to face the music.

Giles folded his arms, facing Spike with fatherly indignation. “Does Buffy know about this?”

Spike nodded curtly.

“And she hasn’t killed you?” Giles lifted his eyebrows in surprise.

Spike said nothing, simply stared at Giles steadily.

Slowly realisation dawned on Giles’ face. “Oh God no.”

“Get a grip Spike. Buffy would never feel anything but loathing for you,” Xander spat angrily.

Willow smacked Xander lightly on the arm. “Xander, I think we can assume she’s not much with the loathing at the moment.”

Giles was too busy cleaning his glasses to take any notice of Xander’s rather inventive expletives. “I can’t believe this is happening again,” he muttered to himself. “What is she thinking?”

“Might I make a suggestion?!” Spike’s voice boomed out across the room. An abrupt silence fell as the other three stared at him in surprise. “Could we possibly argue over mine and Buffy’s love life after we rescue her from The Initiative? They injected holy water into my veins, and pierced my heart with every kind of metal known to man, all just to see what would happen. What do you think they’ll do to the slayer?”

When Spike saw the looks of horror that crossed their faces he was satisfied that he had their attention. “Right then,” he continued. “You want to plan Giles? Let’s plan. You’ve got five minutes.”
 
Chapter Sixteen
 
Chapter Sixteen

When Buffy opened her eyes the first thing she saw was Riley’s face hovering above her.

“Great,” she muttered.

“What’s wrong Buffy?” he asked sarcastically. “Not happy to see me?”

Buffy rolled her eyes as she got to her feet. “Gee what gave it away? The face that you had to tranquilise me to get me here?”

He shrugged, not quite able to meet her gaze. “I did what I had to do.”

“You’d really let them experiment on me?”

Riley’s eyes flickered back to hers. “I’ve been assured no harm will come to you Buffy. The government just wants to know more about the slayer. They want to know what you can do.”

“Do you really still believe that?” Buffy cried incredulously. “Has finding out about Adam taught you nothing?”

“This has nothing to do with Adam!”

Buffy threw up her hands in frustration. “He’s cutting up creatures all over town to find out about where he came from. You know his search will bring him back here.”

“Good.” Riley’s calm self-assurance was back. “When he shows up we’ll take him down. And then…”

Riley’s next words were drowned out by the sound of dozens of doors sliding open. As Buffy and Riley looked around in confusion a demon walked into view in front of Buffy’s cell. Catching site of Riley’s uniform it roared in fury and attacked. Swiftly pulling a tranquiliser gun from the back of his pants Riley shot the demon in the chest. It fell to the ground with a grunt and Buffy and Riley hurried past it into the hallway that ran between the cells.

Demons were emerging from cells the entire length of the hallway. Most had begun fighting amongst themselves. Some, however, were heading straight for the door to the rest of the complex. The door Buffy and Riley were currently standing right in front of.

Swearing softly Riley grabbed for his key card and opened the door, pulling Buffy through behind him before slamming it shut again. They were just in time. Already several demons could be heard pounding on the door from the other side.

“That oughta hold them for a while,”Riley muttered.

“Riley what the hell is going on?”

He looked at her sharply and she could see the fear and confusion in his eyes. “That’s what I’m about to find out.” Grasping his walkie-talkie he barked into in. “Graham! Can you give me any information on the current situation?”

“It’s Adam!” They could just make out Graham’s voice through the crackly reception. “He’s shut down all the exits and freed all the demons in here. He said something about needing pieces for his new race. What the hell is he talking about man?”

Riley and Buffy looked at each other in shock. “He wants to recreate himself,” she whispered.

Without a word Riley began to sprint toward the central hub of the complex, with Buffy hot on his heels.

**********

“What’s that noise?” Spike paused in his trek down the elevator shaft to look at Willow.

She frowned as she, too, paused to listen. “I’m not sure,” she whispered after a moment, “but it sounds like fighting.”

“Something’s wrong,” Spike said, his concern for Buffy hitting a new high. “Something’s very very wrong.” No longer caring whether he made any noise Spike rushed down the shaft, his hands blurring as he increased speed.

Watching him go Willow looked up to where Giles and Xander were descending just above her. “Somehow,” she told them, “I think it might all be over by the time we get there.”

When Spike reached the bottom of the shaft he pried open the doors in front of him. The cacophony of battle sounds coming through from the other side was enough to assure him that no one would even notice his arrival let alone put up a protest. Taking a moment, he attempted to make sense of the sight in front of him. Chaos reigned as humans and demons fought across the entire main hub of the complex. He was willing to bet the rest of the complex was no better. How the hell am I supposed to find Buffy in this mess? he wondered.

Sighing heavily Spike took off into the fray. If he knew Buffy, she would be right in the thick of it. Moving fast he skirted the area, his gaze constantly moving, searching for any sign of Buffy. A flash of golden hair to the right of the room drew his attention. She and Riley were back to back, fighting off the demons that were surrounding them.

Seeing the size of the demon Buffy was facing Spike hurried toward them. Grabbing the small hand axe he’d tucked into the back of his pants he drove it deep into the demons back, pulling it free again as the demon sunk to the floor.

“Spike!” Buffy exclaimed in surprise. “How did you get in here?”

“I came to rescue you,” he replied with a shrug.

“Well you picked a good time for it. We need all the help we can get.” Buffy grabbed Spike’s axe and used it to kill the demon Riley had been fighting. “Riley, we have to find Adam.”

Riley nodded. “I saw him heading for the control room a few minutes ago. Come on, it’s this way.”

**********

When the three of them arrived at the control room it was to find Adam calming watching the battle on over a dozen security monitors. “My new race is about to be born,” he announced. “Something greater than human, greater than demon. A new world is dawning and all of you will be a part of it.” He turned to look at them then, his face revealing nothing of what he was feeling. If in fact he could feel anything at all.

“Riley you should get out of here,” Buffy whispered. “You need to get as many of your men out of here as possible.

“No way–”

“This is no time to argue. He’s too strong for you. Spike and I will deal with this.”

Spike smiled smugly at Riley, delighted by Buffy’s words. “Yeah, why don’t you just run along. This is a job for the big guns.”

Cutting off Riley’s no doubt scathing reply Buffy reminded him, “Your men are dying out there by the dozen. What are you going to do about it?”

Riley nodded abruptly. “You’re right. Good luck Buffy.” He left without so much as glancing at Spike.

Buffy turned to face Adam once again. “Let’s do this.” With that she launched a full frontal attack against Adam. Her every blow was precise and backed with all her strength. She moved lightly on her feet, dodging Adam’s punches. Still, he seemed unaffected by her assault.

Realising this was going to take more than sheer force Spike edged his way around the combatants. With any lucky he’d be able to blindside Adam without the enormous creature seeing it coming. He was just about out of Adam’s peripheral vision when an arm shot out sideways to grip him by the neck. Adam lifted Spike off the ground and tossed him onto the control board that housed the monitors. Then he returned his attention to Buffy as if he’d done no more than swat at a fly.

Spike smiled evilly. Adam shouldn’t have dismissed him so easily. He wasn’t knocked unconscious as easily as the slayer. And now he was at the creature’s back. Figuring speed was his best bet Spike pulled his axe from his pants once more. He had only one chance at this; he had to get it right. Aiming quickly he threw the axe, not even waiting to make sure that it imbedded in Adam’s back before he leap forward. In one smooth motion he yanked the axe from Adam’s flesh and pounded his fist into the wound. With a satisfying crunch he felt the core that powered Adam’s body push forward. “Buffy, the core!” he shouted.

At his words Buffy instinctively rammed her fist into Adam’s chest. To her surprise the uranium core was just beneath his skin and she was able to grasp it easily. Pulling hard she ripped the material from his body. Adam continued to fight for a few moments before he began to slow, eventually dropping lifelessly to the floor.

Buffy stared at the bloody lump in her hand before she threw it on the floor in disgust.

“You okay love?”

“Yeah.” Crossing the room Buffy pulled Spike into a tight hug. “Thanks for coming to the rescue.”

“Anytime. There might still be some rescuing to do though.”

Buffy pulled back with a questioning look.

“Scoobies. They’re in here somewhere. Probably helping dickhead get people out by now.”

Immediately Buffy slid into slayer mode, concern for her friends overriding all else. “Let’s go find them. Make sure everyone is okay."

Spike nodded and they headed back to the main hub, Adam's body lying forgotten behind them on the floor.
 
Chapter Seventeen
 
Chapter Seventeen

Buffy knocked on Giles’ door. She wasn’t looking forward to this meeting and she figured barging in on him like she always did probably wasn’t the best way to break the ice.

“Hello Buffy,” Giles said when he opened the door. “Is everything alright?”

He stepped back and she entered the house with a grateful smile. “Everything is good. I spoke to Riley before he left. The Initiative has been closed down. The soldiers have been reassigned or something.”

“Riley has left town?”

“Yeah.” She took a seat on the couch, wondering when the real conversation would start. “Don’t know where he went. It was all top secret. But I did assure him that if he ever steps foot in my town again I’ll beat the crap out of him.”

“Threats of violence do usually work for you.” Giles started toward the kitchen. “I was just making tea would you like some?”

Jumping up from the couch Buffy blurted, “I’m sorry I didn’t tell you about me and Spike.”

Giles froze mid-stride. “It did come as something of a shock.”

“I know what I’m doing Giles.”

“Do you?” He spun to face her suddenly; as if his control over his emotions had snapped. “Do you really know what you’re doing?”

Buffy took a deep breath, determined to stand firm. “Yes.”

“He’s not like Angel. He’s just another vampire Buffy. No soul, no conscience.”

“Oh come on Giles. You know as well as I do that Spike is not just another vampire. He’s different; he always has been.”

“That didn’t stop him from killing to feed for the last hundred years.”

Buffy dropped her gaze to her clasped hands, unable to refute his words. “I know that. But Giles things are different now. And it’s not just the chip,” she added when she saw him about to speak. “He loves me Giles. You know what that means for him.”

Sighing heavily Giles asked, “You’re willing to bet your life on the fact? Bet other people’s lives?”

She nodded once. “I trust him. He’s had plenty of opportunity to kill me over the past couple of months. He hasn’t. And even if he could hurt other people he wouldn’t.”

“Why is that?”

“Because he knows what it would do to me. He wouldn’t hurt me like that.”

“What about in 10 years, 20 years?” Giles threw up his hands in frustration. “You’ll grow old Buffy. He won’t. I don’t want that for you.”

Buffy smiled softly. “I’m the slayer Giles. If I last long enough for it to be a problem I’ll count myself very lucky.” She saw pain flash in Giles’ eyes at her words and wished she’d been a little less blunt. Walking up to him she spoke with a quiet resolve. “I know my years are numbered. I just want to be happy while I’m here.”

“You love him?”

“Yes.”

“I’m not happy about this.”

“You don’t have to be happy about it. But I do need you to accept it.” She waited till his gaze met her before she continued. “Please Giles. I need you to trust me on this.”

He rolled his eyes. “Well I dare say you haven’t left me much choice.”

Smiling happily Buffy threw her arms around him. “Thank you.”

**********

Spike was busy putting his crypt back in order when Buffy came through the door. For a moment she paused to watch him smoothing white cotton sheets on the bed. God only knew where he’d gotten the bed from.

Moving soundlessly toward him she slipped her arms around his waist from behind, giggling when he flinched in surprise. “Why Spike I do believe you’re losing your touch; letting just anyone sneak up on you like that.”

Taking her hands in his he brought them up to his mouth, kissing her palms. “Just anyone couldn’t manage it.” He turned in her arms and drew her close. “Besides I was distracted.”

“Had to get those hospital corners just right did you?” she teased.

Spike grinned. “Something like that.”

He sat himself on the edge of the bed and urged her closer until she was standing between his legs. Lifting the hem of her shirt just enough to bare a little skin, he then leaned forward to place a chaste kiss upon her belly. “How did things go with Giles?”

“Better than I expected actually.” Looking down at him she ran her fingers through his hair, enjoying the way his mouth moved across her skin; the way his hands stroked her buttocks and thighs. “I wouldn’t expect any dinner invitations yet though.”

She felt his chuckle against her stomach and couldn’t help but shiver in response. “So what have you been doing in here all day?” she asked, trying to keep her voice steady. “Redecorating?”

“I wanted to spruce the place up a bit,” he replied. With a feather light touch he brought his hands around the front of her body, sliding his fingers under her shirt to stroke her hardened nipples. “Can’t have my girl visiting me in a dump now can I?”

“How very kind of you.” Her sugar-sweet voice made him smile. “How can I ever repay you for being so considerate?”

“Let’s see.” Spike picked her up by the waist and tossed her onto the bed, laughing when she yelped in surprise. Quickly he covered her body with his. “You could start by letting me devour you.” He leaned down to graze her cleavage with blunt teeth as he spoke. “Inch by delectable inch.”

Buffy sighed in pleasure. “Okay.”

Chuckling, Spike began to remove her clothing, kissing each bit of skin as it was revealed. “Well that was easy.”

“What can I say,” Buffy said breathily. “You’ve turned me into your willing sex slave.”

When Spike paused in his ministrations to give her a dubious look she just grinned. “Don’t worry. I’ll let you be the slave next time.”

Satisfied by her response Spike returned enthusiastically to his task. He was so going to make her beg.

THE END

Thank you so much for reading my story. I hope you enjoyed it. -flibble