Just Pretending... by BloodyTearsOfLife

momnesia@yahoo.com
11/23/2013 01:05 am
A Bit More Complicated...         

Very good. . . . I hope that you will finish this.     You premise is one I haven't seen before, and you pulled the story off extemely well.   

Thank you for sharing your talent with the rest of us.

08/20/2011 12:23 am
A Bit More Complicated...         
“Wait two seconds,” she breathed. “Where’s Dawn?”

Dawn popped her head up from under the trapdoor, a smile glittering her face.

“Present and accounted for!”


That girl is dangerous! :)
OK, sweetheart, I've read it all... UPDATE NOW!


Blue
http://www.tthfanfic.org/authors.php?no=12717&list=profile

Want more!!!!!
04/04/2010 02:26 pm
A Bit More Complicated...         
 

MOa
08/19/2007 08:52 pm
A Bit More Complicated...         
Great!

08/15/2007 11:05 pm
A Bit More Complicated...         
I was so happy to see this chapter. I hadn't realized how much I missed this story until now. Buffy really could have handled this much better with Giles. Who really cares about Xander. Dawn needs both Buffy and Spike to be there for each other and for her. And doesn't she just show up at the best of times?
Thanks! Sorry about the long wait. I think Buffy will be trying just a little harder from now on. ;) Thanks for reading.

08/15/2007 03:12 am
A Bit More Complicated...         
No one else is helping Buffy with Dawn! At least Giles is mature enough to realize that she needs some one's help, to bad the rest of them haven't grown up enough to realize it too! Glad Dawn got to see them together, gives her something to work with. Thanks for the update, really enjoying it.
Exactly! I hope to have Buffy bring that up later on. And Dawn will defintely be having fun with what she saw. Thanks for reading and reviewing.

sour
08/14/2007 11:43 am
A Bit More Complicated...         
Glad that the story got updated I really like it. It was a good chapter. I like that now Dawn knows abour Buffy and Spike. Can't wait to read more
Yeah, I'm sorry about the long wait. I'll really try to have the next chapter up sooner. Thanks for reading.

08/14/2007 05:33 am
A Bit More Complicated...         
Ok, yay, for an update! Boo, Xander and Giles are head of the ass munch pack, and what was up with Willow feeling all rejected.

Hello, yeah Buffy know's that they are her family, but would any of them step up and act like her husband? Did any of them step up and really help take care of Dawn?

So, go Spike! He gets a shiny gold star.

Loved the end with Dawn poping up from below, lol. Did she see the kiss? Can't wait for more!
LOL!

Okay, for me, Willow was just feeling hurt that Buffy didn't go to her. They're suppose to be best friends and Buffy didn't even tell her she was planning to do a fake marriage? Yeah, I think it would be a pretty big deal. But more on that will be explained in later chapters.

And all that will be addressed later too.

Thanks for reading and such a great review. =)

08/13/2007 05:16 pm
A Bit More Complicated...         
Maybe one day Buffy will grow up and tell Xander to mind his own business.
LOL! One could only hope. Thanks for reading!

08/13/2007 04:34 pm
A Bit More Complicated...         
Whee! It's like that schemer Dawn planned this scene. Fun.
Shhh! Don't tell anyone. ;) Not giving anything away, but like Spike said, people underestimate Dawn.

08/13/2007 08:02 am
A Bit More Complicated...         
I love your Dawn. She's cute. It does help make her cute that she loves Spike so damn much lol.
Thank you. I really do like writing her when she's not being a brat. ;)

I really liked the Dawn/Spike friendship and it made me sad when they just forgot about it in s6.

08/13/2007 04:45 am
A Bit More Complicated...         
so glad to see the update. I'm hoping for more soon.
Yup, I will be trying to get the next chapter up sooner. Sorry for the long wait.

08/13/2007 04:19 am
A Bit More Complicated...         
red's " we’re your family too,” shows why some people do not talk to half of the family memebers. love the last scene, especially dawn's smile. very good read, thank you.
To me, in this situation, Willow was just feeling hurt because Buffy didn't go to her, but all will be fixed. Glad to hear you liked the last scene. It was one of my favorties.

Dee81
08/13/2007 03:38 am
A Bit More Complicated...         
I love this story...I'm so happy to read another update :)

Hehe, thanks so much. =)

Tamara
08/13/2007 01:37 am
A Bit More Complicated...         
The Scoobies have a bad habit of letting thier twisted sense of morality get in the way of things.
Yeah they do. But don't worry, things will get set right eventually.

Christine
08/13/2007 01:16 am
A Bit More Complicated...         
Great reaction from the Scoobies, true to character(s).

Glad to see you update again, I really love this fic.
Thank you! Hopefully I'll have the next chapter up sooner than I did this one. :)

kim
08/13/2007 12:50 am
A Bit More Complicated...         
What is her damage?! Attacking him, now, just because he's in his crypt?! Bitch.

Wow, that Magic Box meeting was a disaster....and the social worker figured out that Buffy hangs out there...is she stalking her? Geesh. They have the worst luck for timing ever.

The Dawn/Spike stuff continues to be really sweet.:)
First and foremost, she's the Slayer. I always thought Buffy was more of the attack first, ask questions later type.

Thanks for reading and reviewing!

08/12/2007 11:47 pm
A Bit More Complicated...         
lol...that made me genuinely chuckle, great little chapter there...very much enjoyed dawn's parts in it, and hope they can make a better impression on social services next chance they get...great chapter, love :)
Hehe! Thanks so much. I sometimes worry that I don't get the comedy right so it's really good to hear I got a chuckle out of you.

08/20/2011 12:12 am
Keeping It Simple         
Her question was met with a thudding answer as Xander hit the floor.


That was truly priceless!

Blue

So good!!!!!!
04/04/2010 02:26 pm
Keeping It Simple         
 

08/13/2007 07:46 am
Keeping It Simple         
First of all, basement scene... HOT. As in, really hot lol.

And Xander passing out, priceless.
LOL! Thanks so much. I sometimes worry at the smutty scenes.

06/27/2007 02:40 am
Keeping It Simple         
I am really loving this fic. You've achieved a good balance with both Spike and Buffy's characters. The premise is delicious of course. ;) Can't wait to see how the Scoobies react!
Thanks! I hope you keep enjoying it.

05/13/2007 01:40 am
Keeping It Simple         
wonderful chapter. I really like the way you're slowly developing a relationship between Spike and Buffy. As for the cliffie, simply inspired. You left me laughing. :)
Aww, thank you! I really wanted to make it as real as possible. Hehe! Glad I could make you laugh. =)

05/12/2007 02:35 pm
Keeping It Simple         
lol....i actually feel just the eensiest bit sorry for xander... :P what a shock :P but mostly it's just sheer glee at imagining the looks on their faces when the "marriage" was outed so completely...wonder how buffy and spike will pull this off, and i really hope none of the others mess it up in their utter cluelessness :P great chapter, love, very much looking forward to more :)
LOL! I hope everyone got that image of everyone being dumbfounded. New chapter should be up shortly.

05/11/2007 03:47 am
Keeping It Simple         
uh oh. I don't think the social worker is going to react well to this...
Hehe, you wouldn't be wrong.

05/10/2007 07:06 am
Keeping It Simple         
Not sure how I missed this before, but I just read through all seven chapters. What an awesome beginning! The premise is cute, and you do a great job mixing the funny with the sexy. The Buffy/Spike interactions are hot, but the emotions are well done, too. And Xander fainting - too funny! :) Looking forward to keeping up with this one.
Wow! Thanks for taking the time to read all that in one sitting. So glad to hear you're enjoying it. =)

05/10/2007 04:54 am
Keeping It Simple         
very enjoyable read, thank you. the buffy spike banter is fun. can you just leave xander passed out on the floor for the rest of the read?
Thanks! So glad you're enjoying.

Hehe! I would if I could.

05/10/2007 01:28 am
Keeping It Simple         
I was happy to see the update to bad school is being so tugh, but that's a good thing. Higher education, yay. Great update too. Liked the enteraction between Buffy and Spike and how she did admit that she likes him, but she;s going to take it slow, darn, lol. As for Xander passing out ROFL. But I'm happy she didn't get a chance to lie about whats going on between them and keep Spike in the dark, now she'll have to explain it to everyone. BTW, loved the niceness between them as well.
Thanks GB. And don't worry. Remember, things don't always turn out as planned, especially when it comes to any plan involving Spike. And the truth was bound to come out sometime, I figured it was just funner this way. Glad you're enjoying. =)

Bridget
05/09/2007 07:47 pm
Keeping It Simple         
Great chapter. It was funny when Xander hit the floor. Please update soon.
Thank you! I'll try my best to update soon.

05/09/2007 05:59 pm
Keeping It Simple         
Buffy should know that her life isn't simple. And what a way for the Scoobs to find out about Spike and Buffy. Just too funny.
Hey, she can dream, right? ;-) I thought it was fun.

05/09/2007 12:02 pm
Keeping It Simple         
Yup, love it when Xander thuds on the floor. So much for keeping it quite for now. Spikes going to love this, so is Giles. Thanks for the update.
Well, I was thinking maybe Giles but he gets abused too much. Xander deserves it. You know Spike is going to love this. =)

05/09/2007 06:57 am
Keeping It Simple         
Dammit... but Xander fainting... can he do that more often? hehe
Hehe, maybe. ;-)

kim
05/09/2007 04:14 am
Keeping It Simple         
HA ha ha! Xander's such a wuss, the jerk.

Oh, boy....the social worker came with Dawn....
Hehe! I think I may have been too harsh on Xander....not! *g*

Yup, the crazy stuff is about to happen.

Cas
05/09/2007 03:34 am
Keeping It Simple         
Great way to end the chapter! Of course we all want more now. If you give a mouse a cookie...
Hehe! I thought so too!

I know, I know. I'm working on it as fast as I can.

Sam
05/09/2007 02:08 am
Keeping It Simple         
grr, stupid buffy. spike's right, she always has to make everything so difficult. she should have just told them about it before something like that could happen. it really annoys me that she constantly worries about what her friends think, like they always make the right choices. i really hope she gets over that soon and realizes that spike is the one she wants, before he really has enough and leaves town.
Hehe! That's classic Buffy. I think Buffy may value her friends' opinion too much and hopefully I'll be able to make her character see that that's not always the best. Hope you stick with this fic. :-)

05/09/2007 12:46 am
Keeping It Simple         
Gawd -- that's torn it! Spike had better come up with some brilliant explaining! Fun chapter.
I'm a little confused by your review because I'm not sure what Spike has to explain, but glad you thought it was a fun chapter. :-)

05/09/2007 12:30 am
Keeping It Simple         
ROFL - good thing Spike got those papers filed! I'm glad you are continuing this fun fic.
Yes, sometimes our boy does think ahead. Yup, I don't have any plans of stopping this fic. Just RL and school contraints to deal with.

05/09/2007 12:08 am
Keeping It Simple         
Love Xander fainting!
Hehe me too!

08/20/2011 12:05 am
Truce?         
oh my...  

08/13/2007 07:28 am
Truce?         
Wow, it's like watching a tennis match lol Kiss, push away, kiss, push away, kiss... God that man is patient. Is there such a thing as a Saint Vampire? He'd deserve that title. Buffy better make up her mind or I'll go find her and slap her around a bit.
I love your dialogues, they sound so natural and real.
Yeah, I really feel that's how the Spuffy relationship works. They're going to keep going back and forth, at least for a little while.

*blushes* Thanks again. I'm really trying to get their voices right.

Shanna
05/09/2007 04:35 am
Truce?         
Love this story and I am so happy to see an update. And a delicious update at that!! Can't wait to see what happens.
Thank you! Glad you're enjoying.

03/07/2007 01:13 pm
Truce?         
Well, do we blame her for liking what she sees. Damn handsome man, who wouldn't. He's right about what's in it for him, he's making things easier for her, not for himself, though he loves he's Summers women. Thanks for allowing her to really say what she really feels. That had to be a shock for him, so excited to see how they handle it in the next chapter. Great chapter, thanks.
Thanks for the great review. Hope the wait wasn't too horrible. Should have the next one up here shortly. =)

03/07/2007 12:50 am
Truce?         
I'm glad she could admit that her running hot and cold with him is about her, even if it was in the heat of an arguement. I'm thinking their truces aren't going to last long if they keep pushing each other and saying things out of fear/hurt/anger. Buffy really does need to open her eyes and see that she wants something more than friendship with him.
Yeah, I think Buffy tends to blurt out the truth, even if she doesn't mean to. Spike just pushes her button and always makes her face the hard stuff, even if she doesn't want to. Thanks for reading. =)

03/07/2007 12:28 am
Truce?         
so much for the truce. buffy will be in denial after blurting out what she did. fun read, thank you.
You'll just have to wait and see. I think people just might be surprised. ;-)

Lou
03/06/2007 09:38 pm
Truce?         
The visuals were spectacular. How Buffy didn't jump his bones I'll never know!
Thank you! Makes me very happy to hear I'm doing good on the visuals.

03/06/2007 07:32 pm
Truce?         
awww...well, at least she's finally opening up, even if it's in the midst of a screaming match...poor spike, she's so confusing sometimes...excellent chatper, love :)
I think that's the way things normally got out, when they were fighting that is. Glad you enjoyed it.

03/06/2007 09:10 am
Truce?         
And the truth blasts its way out. Let's see what he does with it.
Yup, the only way Buffy knows how.

03/06/2007 07:46 am
Truce?         
well at least she admited that she doesnt tryst herself. good that buffy didn't blame spike. can't wait to see what happens next.
Yeah, always has to be admission by blurting things out. Buffy is slowly coming around. =)

03/06/2007 02:12 am
Truce?         
Tackle her!
Hehe, that is one idea...

kim
03/06/2007 01:51 am
Truce?         
Yeah, if she thinks he's going to let THAT go....

Mmmm...shirtless Spike...
My thoughts exactly. ;-)

08/20/2011 12:00 am
The Morning After         
silly bint.

08/15/2007 04:23 am
The Morning After         
Oh man - Honeymoon interrupted.
LOL! Definitely.

08/13/2007 07:09 am
The Morning After         
Tease. Poor Spike. But at least, she's being nice enough now. Guilt will do that to a girl.
That it will!

Lou
02/05/2007 11:46 pm
The Morning After         
Phew -- pass the fan!
LOL! Glad to hear someone needs a fan. ;-)

02/05/2007 09:50 pm
The Morning After         
Buffy really has got to stop playing hot and cold with him before she ruins what they could have. Spike is pretty understanding of her quirks but noone should have to put up with that treatment. Loved Dawn's jealousy about Buffy getting Spike and happiness that they she had caught them in bed together
Yeah, but unfortunately it's something she does do. Glad you enjoyed the chapter.

02/05/2007 10:32 am
The Morning After         
Poor Dawn, here she thought they'd finally made it and where together. Wonder what she'll come home to this afternoon? Nice line Spike threw her way. She deserved it. Sorry RL is getting in the way, will keep an eye open for your next update, thanks.
Yeah, Dawn has high hopes. *g* I can't reveal any plans but I think you'll be interested. =)

02/04/2007 05:57 pm
The Morning After         
Great chapter. Love how Dawn is the one who found them. She was just too funny about it. But as always with them it is 1 step forward and 2 steps back. They just can't seem to make it. But I am glad that Spike was able to at least make her move off of him. Maybe she will get it right at some point. Awesome story.
Just to make this piece a little lighter. And exactly, Spike and Buffy are always doing the back and forth thing. Buffy will try her best. You'll just have to see if she can get it right. ;-)

02/04/2007 12:20 pm
The Morning After         
Gah...Dawn's timing wasn't the best, but then it was probably for the best. I'm glad Buffy decided to play nice at the end, it may not have been the best apology in the world but at least she is actually making an effort.
Yeah, Dawn has her moments. And Buffy's trying, just who knows for how long!

samson28
02/04/2007 12:11 pm
The Morning After         
Great update. Thoroughly enjoyed. :)
Thanks, glad you enjoyed it. :-)

02/04/2007 07:32 am
The Morning After         
oh so typical for them....lol...fighting like cats and dogs and then making up...do they realize how much like an actual married couple that sort of behavior is? :) great chapter, looking forward to more :)
I don't think they realize it. Probably would deny it if anyone pointed it out too.

02/04/2007 07:05 am
The Morning After         
spike is going to need therapy after only a short time of being "married. wonderful read, thank you.
He just might! Glad you enjoyed it.

02/04/2007 06:01 am
The Morning After         
Dammit Dawn....
Yeah, pretty much...

02/04/2007 05:12 am
The Morning After         
That was wrong what Spike said, but then again isn't everything that comes out of Buffy's mouth directed towards Spike worng. I like her peace offering, he spend a centery with Dru and Spiek doesn't know how women are? lol, Poor man, he still has no clue. Can't wait for more.
Yeah, they hurt each other with their words. I know! Spike is still clueless. He'll figure it out soon though. Or at least I hope!

02/04/2007 04:47 am
The Morning After         
Its a close call as to which of them is more pig-headed! Loving the tension-- thanks for the update!
Yeah, I think that's why they're so fun to write. Glad you enjoyed it.

02/04/2007 04:32 am
The Morning After         
He is so love's bitch. What a crappy apology.
I know. Our poor Spike. :-(

02/04/2007 04:23 am
The Morning After         
Sounds like Spike and Buffy, all right - two steps forward and one back. Just catching up on this one now - I had missed a couple of chapters somehow.
*blushes* Thank you. I've been working had to be my Spike and Buffy characters right and it's very nice to hear that the effort is showing.

02/04/2007 04:07 am
The Morning After         
I rarely say this but "yay, Dawn!" No way will Buffy kick Spike out when her sister's safety depends on it ... curious to see what happens next.
I know! Dawn is a character that usually bugs me but I'm trying to make her likable in this fic.

02/04/2007 03:20 am
The Morning After         
This was so romantic ...in the dysfunctional tight wound way that Buffy shows it.
LOL! Buffy certainly has her own way of doing things.

02/04/2007 03:05 am
The Morning After         
Hey there, just wanted to let you know I'm really enjoying this fic. I'm loving how you've fused real emotion and human interaction into a what could have been a kinda one dimensional fluff piece... not that those aren't good also hehe. Looking forward to reading more. :-)
~Danni
Aw, thank you. ^_^ It's always great to hear that I'm doing a good job telling a story. Trying to make it as dimensional as it can be!

kim
02/04/2007 02:39 am
The Morning After         
Yep, alienating him too much would seriously be of the bad. She really can't do all this on her own (well, she's capable of it, but as long as she thinks she isn't..).

At least the sight gave Dawn a bit of happiness.
LOL! I don't know if she could pretend to be married on her own. ;-) Thanks for reading and reviewing!

08/19/2011 11:55 pm
Spike's Secret         
that was unexpected. 

08/14/2007 02:42 am
Spike's Secret         
Oh, Buffy saying thank you. That's a twist.
Yeah, I thought things needed to change just a little bit. :)

08/13/2007 06:53 am
Spike's Secret         
::sighs:: I think you just made me fall in love with Spike all over again :)
*blushes* Thanks for such a great compliment.

02/04/2007 03:05 am
Spike's Secret         
Thanks for bringing up the matter of the art gallery. I don't remember anything mentioned in canon about that. One would think there would have been some sort of arrangements made.
You're welcome. It was something that had bugged me and I made a solution for it.

01/26/2007 03:05 pm
Spike's Secret         
More? Please? Soon? Pretty please? :)
I'm trying my best! Next chapter is up though.

01/26/2007 05:12 am
Spike's Secret         
wonderful read, love. thank you. now, are you going to ruin the memory of the last scene by having the morning bring back bitchy buffy?
Glad you enjoyed. LOL! Me? Ruin the memory? You'll just have to read and see. I'm trying to keep this as close to canon as possible, so if you know your Buffy, I think you can take a good guess. ;-)

01/26/2007 02:59 am
Spike's Secret         
I really just hope that Buffy really does open up to him. He has really been taking care of her and Dawn without 'wanting' to take credit... Love the final scene.
I'm not giving anything away. :-) Glad you enjoyed the final scene.

01/25/2007 07:22 pm
Spike's Secret         
hmm, Buffy is a lot nicer when she's tired and not so suspicious. I always wondered what happened to Joyce's business, so it's nice to know it still exists and Spike has been looking after it. I'm curious about what he was doing at the court house, and I wonder when Buffy is going to ask about that. Loved her jealousy at the thought that he was seeing another girl, even if she claimed she doesn't care. Poor Spike, she fell asleep before he could get his smoochies, although I'm sure the fact that she's using him as a living teddy bear makes up for it
Well, it is her subconscious talking! I always found the issue of Joyce's gallery unresolved, so I fixed it. Everything will get explained in time. :-) Thanks for reading and reviewing.

01/25/2007 06:24 pm
Spike's Secret         
hmmm...seems she does a lot of that "kissing him thank you" stuff :P better than kissing angel "hello", anyway :) lol...excellent chapter, very sweet and real and moving...looking forward to more :)
Yeah, Buffy doesn't really always know how to use her words. She's more of an action type person. Glad you enjoyed the chapter. :-)

01/25/2007 05:21 pm
Spike's Secret         
oh I love this story! It just keeps getting better and better! Please continue soon! :)
Thanks! *blushes* I have the next chapter up now.

Bridget
01/25/2007 05:05 pm
Spike's Secret         
Very nice chapter. It was nice having Buffy react sweetly to Spike for a change.
Thank you!

Lou
01/25/2007 10:18 am
Spike's Secret         
I hope Buffy's just as agreeable in the morning!
You'll have to read and see for yourself. ;-)

hotlipedjen
01/25/2007 10:05 am
Spike's Secret         
Just started reading. Am enjoying it very much.
Glad you're enjoying. Thanks for reading and reviewing!

sour
01/25/2007 08:33 am
Spike's Secret         
Great chapter, please update soon, I wonder if Buffy will chicken out in the morning or not.
You can see now, the next chapter is up.

01/25/2007 08:32 am
Spike's Secret         
Awww, that was so sweet. I'm glad you answered one question that I never though of until now. What happened to Joyce's show, and if it was sold, why didn't Buffy get any of the money? Wonder how she'll react in the morning? Great chappie, sweetie.
Yup, it was one thing that I was wondering about too. Glad you enjoyed the chapter. More is up now.

01/25/2007 08:25 am
Spike's Secret         
I like where this is heading--nice to have Buffy actually think instead of just react.
Well, I'm trying, but Buffy can be just as impulsive as Spike is.

kim
01/25/2007 08:03 am
Spike's Secret         
A movie type moment, but oh so cute. Love the gallery idea, with him thinking of the practical while Buffy flounders about life. I'm sure she'll freak out in the morning, though.
Yeah, it was a bit movie type. I hope not too much though! If Spike is anything, he's pretty practical.

01/25/2007 07:02 am
Spike's Secret         
He's taking care of them, how sweet. The gallery is a good cover for his income, great idea. Loved that she wanted him to stay. Perfect chapter, thanks.
Yup, I thought it was a great idea. Something pretty Spike-ish. LOL!

01/25/2007 06:19 am
Spike's Secret         
lol at sleepy sex kitten
There was a sleepy sex kitten?

01/25/2007 06:16 am
Spike's Secret         
Thanks for the update, great Chapter! More soon please.
You're welcome. Next chapter is up now. :-)

01/25/2007 06:03 am
Spike's Secret         
Lovely chapter! I love that Spike has been helping Joyce, without Buffy's knowledge. The ending was so sweet...for Spike's sake I do hope that come morning Buffy remembers that SHE is the one who insisted he stay.
Well, we know how things usually work out for Spike. Glad you like the idea. I thought it was pretty original and something Spike would do.

01/25/2007 05:37 am
Spike's Secret         
awww.... and another big AWWW... thats so sweet :)
Thanks, I'm trying to keep this fic towards the lighter side.

08/14/2007 02:33 am
Following Orders         
Buffy you big coward. Love the story.
Yeah, even if she is the Slayer, she can be a coward too.

08/13/2007 06:36 am
Following Orders         
Great chapter. I love the interaction between Spike and Dawn. And the make out scene was hot.
Thank you!

02/04/2007 03:06 am
Following Orders         
That's tome ..not tomb!
Hehe! *blushes* Thanks hun. Should have Slayme add it to that list she was keeping of mixed up words.

01/28/2007 01:08 pm
Following Orders         
The idea of its being a slayer dream? Classic!

As for 'this time it's gonna be different'? Well yeah, she never married any of her exes. :)
Hehe, I thought the idea was original. :-)

Yup, marriage is a whole new concept for Buffy.

01/26/2007 02:57 pm
Following Orders         
What a little dream can inspire lol I hope she listens to the little voice soon. Great chapter again
I don't know, Buffy can be stubborn. Glad you enjoyed the chapter.

01/25/2007 06:46 am
Following Orders         
Wow, she's going to watch it or that dream of her's is going to definately come true, which we all want! Great to see how easy Spike fit into their lives. Love the thought behind this fic, thanks for writing this great chapter.
Yup, Buffy definitely needs to watch her footing, and I think Spike is pretty good at adapting. Glad you're liking the fic and I hope you continue to do so. :-)

01/22/2007 08:10 pm
Following Orders         
I like Buffy being civil to Spike, and see it didn't kill her either, lol. Great chappie, can't wait for more.
LOL! Yeah, Buffy needs to try that more often.

01/13/2007 07:06 pm
Following Orders         
At least she's admitting to herslef that she feels something for him. ANd how hot was that make out session. Maybe his close proximity will help her get over her fears and really let him in. I liked his interactions with Dawn, helping her with her homework and making dinner. They could be a nice family unit if they let themselves, althoughI do miss Joyce as well
Buffy is stubborn. It's going to take her time but she'll get there. Glad you like the interaction with Dawn and Spike. I love their friendship. And I do miss Joyce too, but I'm trying not to make this too angsty. Thanks for reading and reviewing!

Cas
01/12/2007 02:22 am
Following Orders         
Spike could cook my dinner any time! LOL Dawn's getting sneaky! Wonder if the whole thing was a setup from start to finish.
Hehe, I'm with you on Spike cooking dinner any time! And you never know with Dawn. You'll just have to wait and find out.

01/12/2007 01:21 am
Following Orders         
jebus buffy!! god damn you! If spike was touching me i'd be all for the welcoming but you.. *grumble* you like to change the subject dont ya?

awesome chapter
Of course, Buffy is queen of denial and running hot and cold. Glad you enjoyed it.

01/12/2007 12:17 am
Following Orders         
Poor conflicted Buffy....running hot and cold as always. I love how you have her slowly starting to realize Spike isn't so bad, after all. And I'm still giggling over the lingering effects of her little shower!smut dream lol.
Do I even need to explain to you? You know how this is going. *g* Hehe, oh yes, the shower scene will have lingering effects...for a while. ^_^

Shanna
01/11/2007 05:49 pm
Following Orders         
I have to say that I am really enjoying this story and how well it is written. I went back to read chapter 2 with Spike clutching the stone with his back to Buffy and then he says 'okay'....I could picture that so clearly as a Spike reaction and as JM would have done the scene. Just perfect.
Thank you soo much! I'm trying really hard to keep my characters true, and it's so nice to hear that you can picture it. That means I'm doing my job right! *g* Thanks for reading and reviewing!

Lou
01/11/2007 10:33 am
Following Orders         
This is so cute -- poor Buffy, always thinking she has to hate Spike!
Glad you liked it. Thanks for reading!

01/11/2007 10:20 am
Following Orders         
I'm really enjoying this story, sweetie.
Admitting to herself that she's attracted to Spike? Buffy's come a long way in a short time--she should learn to listen to her body more often! lol
I'm really interested to see how the Scoobies react to the situation!
So glad you're enjoying it! I hope that little confession wasn't too much. I'm trying to keep this slower. Don't want to give too much away but I'm pretty sure that the Scoobies will make an appearance. You'll just have to wait and see. ;-)

Jessica
01/11/2007 08:53 am
Following Orders         
I was rather surprised that Buffy already admitted that she was attracted to Spike. Granted she only said it to herself, but that is more progress than usual. ; ) Great chapter. Can't wait for more.
Well, she only admitted it to herself in her head, so it's not like she said it out loud. I mean, after jumping Spike at the door, it was pretty obvious she was attracted to him. *g* Thanks for reading and reviewing.

01/11/2007 07:50 am
Following Orders         
grr....the story's awesome, but i'm so mad at buffy...she allows things to go that far, and then knocks him down just for kissing her? when *she's* the one who up'ed the ante in that little scene? if she doesn't straighten up her act, the way she treats him, asap, she'll *still* lose dawnie -- when the social worker accuses her of domestic violence! lol...but still mad at her...:P
excellent chapter, love, looking forward to more :)
Well, that's how Buffy is. I'm trying to keep the characters as close to canon as possible. Buffy will get her act together eventually, it just takes time. Thanks for reading. I'll have more up soon.

gaillee
01/11/2007 07:42 am
Following Orders         
Very good! The characters are so true. Buffy still in denial, Spike...oh, well, you know. Will be watching for updates.
Hehe, repeat review!

gaillee
01/11/2007 07:42 am
Following Orders         
Very good! The characters are so true. Buffy still in denial, Spike...oh, well, you know. Will be watching for updates.
Thank you! That is the thing that I'm working the hardest on, keeping the characters true. So thank you for the huge compliment. I'll have more up later this week.

kim
01/11/2007 06:58 am
Following Orders         
Well, he certainly took the husbandly duty to heart!
Hehe! Of course he did!

01/11/2007 06:54 am
Following Orders         
And there's the hot and cold Buffy we all know. I'm enjoying the story so far, can't wait to see how well things go over with social services.
Glad you're liking it so far. Hope you continue to do so. I'll have more up soon.

01/11/2007 06:26 am
Following Orders         
so buffy, almost coming out of denial, then running back. very good read, thank you.
Well, that's how Buffy is. Glad you enjoyed it.

01/11/2007 06:14 am
Following Orders         
Oh, yeah, they were totally slayer dreams. That's what I tell myself when I dream about Spike, anyway. Sigh. Why is Buffy so stubborn? I will wait patiently for your next delightful update, and thank you very much for writing!
LOL! Don't we all! Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for reading and reviewing!

01/11/2007 05:23 am
Following Orders         
Eep eep eep
Well, I hope you enjoyed the chapter....

01/11/2007 05:11 am
Following Orders         
Great update. Looking forward to more soon.
Thanks! More coming soon.

08/14/2007 02:26 am
The Proposal         
Good Buffy and Spike interaction. Buffy is such an idiot, but can she dream!
Thank you. I really do enjoy writing their scenes together.

08/13/2007 06:19 am
The Proposal         
Aww, poor Buffy, how very frustrating to wake up just at the wrong moment. That will teach her to hurt Spike's feelings.
Yup, got to make things a little tough on Buffy. ;)

01/26/2007 02:45 pm
The Proposal         
Ups, poor Buffy. Great chapter
Thank you!

01/22/2007 07:31 pm
The Proposal         
Ooo,what a hot chapter. Loved it. Poor Buffy, always trying to fight what she really knows what she wants.
Thanks GB! Glad you liked.

Cas
01/08/2007 02:57 am
The Proposal         
Very cute.
Thanks!

01/07/2007 04:42 pm
The Proposal         
well, well wasn't that an interesting little dream. And very telling. Seems Buffy was a little jealous that SPike agreed to help because of Dawn and not because of her. I'm kind of glad, after she so clearly hurt Spike's feelings. He is much more sensitive than she will let herself see, and she will really need to change her attitude towards him if this thing is going to work. Otherwise they'll both keep saying things to hurt one another. Liked how protective Spike is of Dawn, between not wanting Buffy to mention her out in the open, pointing out that he took a beating for her, and agreeing to help, he really is a great person.
Thank you soo much for your review. You hit on so many things that I was hoping to accomplish. :-)

01/05/2007 06:13 pm
The Proposal         
I'm amazed that she never killed Dawn herself. I think I would've.
Nah, she loves Dawn. ;-)

01/05/2007 05:02 pm
The Proposal         
Whew! Talk about your realistic dream!
Hehe, you know it!

01/05/2007 08:35 am
The Proposal         
lol...Dawn has some timing, doesn't she? buffy can't hide from the truth in her dreams...and these two just cant help hurting each other, can they? *sigh* great update, love, lookin forward to more :)
Dawn certaintly has some timing. And you can never hide from your subconscious. ;-) Glad you enjoyed the chapter.

Dirktavian
01/05/2007 07:52 am
The Proposal         
Hot, hot, HOT! So very, very close...loved it!
Thanks!

01/05/2007 05:58 am
The Proposal         
fun read, thank you. dawn is trying to help in the "real world" and so ruining buffy's dream world. very well done.
Glad you enjoyed it. :-)

kim
01/05/2007 04:01 am
The Proposal         
Ah, poor Slayer....has to be unselfish when she doesn't want to be....waah....

Go Spike for having the higher priorities. He loves Dawn.
Yes, despite what others think, I really do believe Spike had a soft spot for Dawn. Thanks for reading!

01/05/2007 03:16 am
The Proposal         
Can't wait to see how this pans out! Update soon!
It will definitely be interesting. Thanks for reading!

01/05/2007 01:48 am
The Proposal         
Good, glad he got in a few barbs of his own. She's still bitch Buffy, the only way to write her, for now. She know's he's so much better then she gives him credit for and he loves Dawn as much as she does her, even if she won't admit it. Thanks for the dream, gave her something to kick herself in the head about. Fantastic update. And in the word's of Dru...do it again, do it again! Thanks.
I cannot tell you how much your review made me smile, so thank you. I'm really trying to stay true to the characters and I hope that's showing through. Thank you for reading and reviewing. *hugs*

Lou
01/04/2007 11:54 pm
The Proposal         
God -- poor girl couldn't even get happy in a dream!
*g* Yeah, Buffy can have a little trouble in that area.

Ariel Dawn
01/04/2007 10:17 pm
The Proposal         
Can I just say how much this fic rocks my socks? Love the Evil way you ended this chapter. Love Evil Dawn.
Hehe, so glad you're liking it. The ending was pretty evil...

01/04/2007 10:13 pm
The Proposal         
Gawd, did I mention I always hated Dawn? *growls*
Well, I don't hate Dawn, except when she's being a whiny brat, so I'm steering clear of that. To me, Dawn's in a pretty scary situation and can be impulsive.

08/19/2011 11:23 pm
The Dilemma         
Dawn certainly knows how to devise cruel and unusual bethrotal rituals!

Blue

08/14/2007 01:26 am
The Dilemma         
Very funny and excellent Dawn. I particularly liked the little detail of her using Buffy's manicure brush because we know Buffy would be really pissed off about that. Great chapter.
Hehe, thanks! I really do like writing Dawn. It's been a new experience.

08/13/2007 05:59 am
The Dilemma         
Great start. Love it.
Thank you!

01/26/2007 02:36 pm
The Dilemma         
He he, that vomit line in the beginning was great. I like your Dawn/Buffy interaction. Off to the next chapter. :)
Yes, that's one of my favorite lines too.

Richard
01/25/2007 09:05 am
The Dilemma         
Cool setup, though I wish you hadn't gone into the soul line of argument. It's been done so often, it's tired. And once Buffy spouted that whole destiny line of crap, I was expecting Dawn to set her straight on it. Because Buffy's destiny is to die alone at a very young age. Not exactly uplifting, so why's she clinging to it?
First, thank you for the compliment. I'm sorry if you didn't like the soul line of argument. I think it's something that needs to be addressed though, and I hoped I put a different enough spin on it to set it on its own. Buffy's always been obsessed with the whole 'it's my destiny', I don't even think Dawn is going to sway her from that. I hope you continue to read, and if not, thank you for at least trying my fic out. :-)

Dirktavian
01/05/2007 07:36 am
The Dilemma         
I LOVE the premise, and you have a fabulous writing style. Great stuff! Can't wait to read more.
*blushes* Thank you! Glad you're enjoying it.

Lou
01/04/2007 11:47 pm
The Dilemma         
This is going to be fun. I hope he thinks before speaking!
Well you know Spike. He tends to speak first, think later.

12/31/2006 12:02 am
The Dilemma         
great beginning. dawn already forcing buffy to actually think. thanks for the fun read.
Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it.

MARGARET
12/28/2006 09:40 pm
The Dilemma         
THANKS FOR THE GREAT STORY
You're welcome. And there's still more to come!

12/28/2006 07:09 pm
The Dilemma         
I'm surprised that Buffy isn't making Dawn tell Spike about their 'marriage', though considering how much Spike would do for her I doubt he'd object. it will be interesting to see them trying to cohabitat and get along for the social service people. I loved Buffy comforting Dawn when she started to lose it about being taken away. And that she wasn't going to let her completely of the hook
Well, if she let Dawn tell Spike, who knows what she'd tell him! And I'm glad you liked Buffy's behavior. I'm really trying to make everyone true to their characters. Thanks for reading!

12/28/2006 06:59 pm
The Dilemma         
Interesting! Leave it to Dawn to fix the whole problem *G*. Looking forward to more.

Kathleen
Oh yes, Dawn can have a great idea sometimes. Thanks for reading!

12/28/2006 12:00 pm
The Dilemma         
She deserves a really big punishment *nods*
I'm not too sure about that. ;-)

12/28/2006 06:30 am
The Dilemma         
I like the premise. And I love the last sentence.
Thanks! Glad you liked it.

12/28/2006 04:45 am
The Dilemma         
Thanks to AD for the concept and to you for putting it into words. Our little Buffster is growing up a little bit. Can't wait to see Spike's reaction to it. He may love her but marriage is a huge thing, even to pretend. The scoobies are going to have a cow, especially Xander, Ooo, I can't wait for the next update, thanks for the excellent chapter, BTOL.
Yes, AD is a bloody genius! And I agree, marriage is a huge thing. I don't think either one of them will completely understand how it's going to affect them. And the Scoobies will have a cow, if they find out. *zips lips* Thanks for reading and reviewing!

Tamara
12/28/2006 03:45 am
The Dilemma         
Great start. I love that Dawn brought up the fact that a soul doesn't make someone good and the possibility that Dawn herself might not have a soul.
I felt it was really important for Dawn to bring that up. There's so much they don't know about her. Thanks for reading and reviewing!

12/28/2006 02:52 am
The Dilemma         
oh wow this should be fun...but something tells me they're still goin to give the impression of a *very* dysfunctional family...lol
Oh yes, it will be fun. LOL! I think every family is a bit dysfunctional, Buffy's just happens to be more special. :-)

12/28/2006 02:21 am
The Dilemma         
hehehe! Can't be too mad at dawn tho! ;)
Nope, you can't be too mad at Dawn, unless you're Buffy that is!

12/28/2006 01:39 am
The Dilemma         
I love this concept. I love whenever buffy and spike have to pretend to be married lol.
Thanks, it was AD's idea, I just gave it life.

12/28/2006 12:28 am
The Dilemma         
Good beginning! Can't wait to see how these guys "pretend"!
Thanks! Glad you like it.

12/27/2006 11:14 pm
The Dilemma         
“Why is it that you guys always have me paired up with Spike?” Buffy whined with a pout. *giggles*

Interesting start... can't wait to see how this pans out!
Hehe, I couldn't help myself! Thanks for reading.

12/27/2006 10:57 pm
The Dilemma         
Way to go BtoL! This is gonna prove interesting. I hope Spike does thee whole mushy, over-zealously in love 'boboo twinkle muffins' whenever social workers are around. Just to tweak Buffy's nut if for no other reason! ^^
Heheh, thanks! You'll just have to wait and see what Spike does. ;-)

kim
12/27/2006 10:48 pm
The Dilemma         
So, this is after Spike didn't tell about Glory, but before Buffy's death? Just clarifying...

Spike's gonna eat this up!
Yes, like it says in the summary, this fic takes place before the events of 'Tough Love'.

Shady
12/27/2006 10:25 pm
The Dilemma         
Loveeeeeeeee it

:p
Thanks!

12/27/2006 10:08 pm
The Dilemma         
Great start BTL. Can't wait for your next chappie.
Thanks GB! I'll probably post the next chapter in about a week.