The Bloodshedverse :: Spuffy with Bite

06/16/2008 11:08 pm

Fate

Just started reading this story yesterday. I couldn't stop reading it once I started. It had me hooked. It touch me to see them building a friendship first. Buffy taking care of Spike and then Spike taking care of Buffy. It has been a while since I have read a Spuffy story an where I couldn't stop until the chapters ended or story ended.

I was almost expecting Angel or Dru to come back. Not that I wanted to see them back. LOL

I'm also surprise that Buffy never thought about how Angel could have done the same thing. About him getting his soul attached forever. That shows you how different Spike and Angel are. Spike always willing to whatever it takes to be with the person he loves.

I'm sad to see it end go but I look forward to reading more from you.

06/15/2008 04:30 pm

Fate

very sweet story

darklove

06/15/2008 08:14 am

Fate

I've got to say that this is my favorite story of yours so far. You always write so well, but this fic was really well done. I love how this fic was longer than others. It was written at a slower pace and I loved that. You wrote the characters perfectly as always. There's only one thing that bugged me. I mean it didn't really bug me a lot, since I really enjoyed reading your story. But I just want to mention although it wasn't such a big deal. I didn't like the fact that in your story, the happiness clause was attributed to sex. I mean, don't get me wrong. I get why Buffy and Spike would be cautious with the whole Angelus thing. Yes, sex with Buffy was what ulitmately led Angel to lose his soul. But, I don't view the curse in general being only about sex. The way I see it, is that a moment of perfect happiness can occur for whatever reason and it doesn't have to be attributed to sex. For Angel it was sex. Or rather I think it was because he was finally with Buffy. Maybe you decided to keep equating the curse with sex, since you wanted to drag out Buffy and Spike's consummation of their relationship. Anyway, I truly enjoyed it .

dramionelurver

06/15/2008 07:04 am

Fate

oh me gosh i loved it!!!!!!! okay, love how spike actually went to try and find a wait to keep his soul. (though it would've been cool to see him still love buffy sans soul...) not like angel the loser!
i loved it i loved it i loved it! i love all your work! youre awesome!
~liz

Kim

06/13/2008 05:28 pm

Fate

I really enjoyed this!

All4Spike

06/13/2008 02:06 am

Fate

Thank you. A truly wonderful fic, as all yours are. A perfect place to draw to a close too.
How on earth are you going to survive with no internet for a whole month? I go into withdrawal induced anxiety attacks when the power goes off for just an hour, as it did here yesterday.
I look forward to reading more Spuffiness from you as soon as you're back.

Carol

06/13/2008 12:52 am

Fate

I really loved this. Just a nice story all around. You're sure to win some awards.

peck

06/12/2008 11:22 pm

Fate

Wow, four chapters today and then out with a bang(bad pun). I have really enjoyed this story and look forward to what's coming up next. Thanks again for all your hard work!

Blackoberst

06/12/2008 08:08 pm

Fate

Fantastic story!
I really enjoyed every single line of it and congrats on the 6 chaps in 2 days thing! that's amazing!

You deerve any and all the awards and nominations you have/will receive.

Kate

06/12/2008 08:00 pm

Fate

Great story! I really loved reading it. Looking forward to what you'll post next when you return from hiatus. :)

crazyinseattle

06/12/2008 06:53 pm

Fate

Man. I can't believe it is over! No!

Sadly no one got to see how Spike could be without the soul but I guess that is okay. Haha.

Fantastic story and of course ending!

Can't wait for something new!

ps
See? You just pump out the chapters....6 in two days? AMAZING! Haha.

They have made my finals much easier to tolerate. Haha

Lou

06/12/2008 05:56 pm

Fate

The perfect ending - it's been a real pleasure to read this and thanks a million for getting it finished. Good luck with the house move.

06/12/2008 04:05 pm

Fate

I always love your stories! All of them are so great with the Spuffy! and I would love if you go back to season 6 in the next one! ;)

SanityFair

06/12/2008 03:48 pm

Fate

You are a Firecracker--6 chapters in 2 days! That's phenomenal! I've loved every bit of this season 2 fic and look forward to your next endevour, which ever season you may choose. You'll be missed while away!

Avalon

06/12/2008 03:02 pm

Fate

I'm so sad it's over :'( But it was a really fun ride. Hope your internet connection is back soon, can't wait for another awesome story :)

*Hugs* Thank you for sharing

I know. Me too :-( I was growing quite attached! Glad you enjoyed it though and I will definitely be back for more. (until then, I just added a one-shot as well: 'Desperation') Thank you for reading!

pfeifferpack

06/12/2008 02:58 pm

Fate

YAY You!!! You tied it up in one lovely romantic bow. Nothing forced or too fast....lovely job.

Enjoy your time to yourself and come back muse in full force soon (so happy you have left us not only with this completed but so many other really well written stories of yours to also enjoy in the interim).

This leaves me with a big smile. I can see how much happier ALL of their lives would be had this happened....sigh....lovely.

Kathleen

I must have imbibed some sort of Spuffy-creating magic :-) Glad you enjoyed the somewhat bumpy ride. Thank you for your continued support and I hope to see you again in July - be assured that I'm sure I'll have something written to post straight away.

All4Spike

06/13/2008 02:01 am

Revelation

Cackles with glee. I knew it! As Buffy said herself, she sucks at undercover. The way they behaved must have been so obvious to the others! they had plenty of time to get used to the idea before Buffy told them.

Lou

06/12/2008 05:53 pm

Revelation

Awwww - good Scoobies, playing nice! Buffy and Spike deserve nothing less.

pfeifferpack

06/12/2008 02:49 pm

Revelation

I really believe the gang would have reacted this way a that time (actually had Buffy made clear she really cared for Spike they would have accepted all along...okay some grumbling from Xander likely but that's all). LOVE this response. Good thing it's anchored or Spike would have that perfect happiness all too soon.

Kathleen

08/21/2009 07:19 am

Secured

Oh.. nice story, but a bit dissapointed about how simple it was solved.. I was so hoping Spike would loose his soul, then desperately try to cover it up and prove that he could love her and be good even without it..

All4Spike

06/13/2008 01:57 am

Secured

And of course now you've raised another excellent question. Why did Angel never look into getting his soul fixed? I'm so glad to see Giles accepting them together, and does he know something we don't? I suspect from his attitude that the Scoobies aren't going to be nearly as judgy as Buffy fears.

Lou

06/12/2008 05:49 pm

Secured

Still the perfect gent - not even complaining that Buffy has to have her friends' blessing! I'm sure she'll make it up to him.

pfeifferpack

06/12/2008 02:43 pm

Secured

All secure but Buff's mind. She is still resisting that last step, committing her emotions fully and freely. Not as many barriers for this Buffy though so all will be well. Poor patient Spike.

Kathleen

vladt

06/28/2008 09:59 pm

Reassurance

count me as one of the many who guessed wrong. very good, thank you.

All4Spike

06/13/2008 01:48 am

Reassurance

Oh well done that vamp!
Now then... I've been thinking. We're meant to assume Angel is in LA 'cos of that postcard, but we never found out what happened to Dru, did we. I don't suppose that Angel's got her tucked away somewhere? I can't help thinking that Angel wouldn't just give up that easily, and wonder what he might be plotting.

crazyinseattle

06/12/2008 06:36 pm

Reassurance

I wanted to review this chapter before moving on to the next two because I loved it so much!

I just wish Buffy could somehow understand that Spike is in fact different and I really wanted to see him lose his soul....and then have Buffy be surprised he is the same. Haha.

Anyway. I wanted to say that before I read the next two chapters.

Lou

06/12/2008 04:33 pm

Reassurance

It's wonderful that Spike is prepared to do what it takes for Buffy to be secure and happy. Swoony.

SanityFair

06/12/2008 03:34 pm

Reassurance

Thanks for post, I'm off to read more fabulous chapters!

pfeifferpack

06/12/2008 02:38 pm

Reassurance

Awwwww so very sweet. I completely agree that he COULD have done it (with difficulty for quite a while as he struggled to find his course) but the fear in her and the others would taint everything and would be inevitable after the horror of Angelus. Had they connected before Angelus it might have been possible but not after IMHO.

Excellent. Yes, Spike sees what he wants and does what he needs to do to secure it.

Kathleen

vladt

06/28/2008 09:55 pm

Passion

they can't be far from testing if spike is cursed like angel. good read, thank you.

All4Spike

06/13/2008 01:42 am

Passion

Nicely done. Of course you've raised a very pertinent point here. Angel could very well have stayed with Buffy and given her happy after happy after happy. It was only *his* pleasure that was a risk. I suppose it all comes down to self-control. Angel decided he couldn't control himself around her enough to love her without risking breaking the curse again.
I have to say I'm not convinced that Spike would be a danger to anyone if he were to lose his soul now he's fallen for Buffy. I'm not even sure she'd notice.

pfeifferpack

06/12/2008 02:31 pm

Passion

Oh they are too far gone to head back to shore now. Need to make a clear decision before their bodies do it for them.

Hot but just right amount of detail. You can feel the frustration and the passion. Nice work!

Kathleen

Gabs

07/09/2012 05:33 am

Confrontation

Pleaseeeee tell me Willow´s curse has a different happy-clause or something.... pretty please with a cherry on top?

Love your Spik, he is sooooooooo sweet ^

Lou

06/12/2008 03:37 pm

Confrontation

Oooh Mr Protector, I like it!

nmcil

06/12/2008 03:59 am

Confrontation

Great Update - and as much as I love Spike, boy does he need to get a little more "anger" control - What both Buffy and Spike need is things to go a little smooth right now - Angel/Angelus should still be a huge and vital factor in their world perspective - Vampire's can do so much damage so very easily - they have so much to lose -

dramionelurver

06/12/2008 03:44 am

Confrontation

oh, todd the loser. xan-man's right. am i sensing a possible spander friendship?! i love those!
man, i love these kind of records! =p
~liz

All4Spike

06/12/2008 01:01 am

Confrontation

Oh, well done Xander for agreeing with Spike! Not sure how agreeable he'd be if he knew the true situation though...

pfeifferpack

06/12/2008 12:15 am

Confrontation

Oh my....jealousy bubbling to a rapid boil there. Not really fair to old Todd but poor Spike is really sexually frustrated and that Todd had her and didn't want more must grate on his last nerve.

Can't imagine the crew not catching on fairly soon for so many reasons. Spike's eyes always betray his emotions and they have to know he is in love with Buffy or they will soon.

Xander has a jealousy problem too so I can see him immediately siding with Spike in this case. You can smell the tetosterone in that alleyway LOL.

Thanks for the extra treat!

Kathleen

peck

06/11/2008 11:39 pm

Confrontation

Get him Spike, Buffy needs to be spanked for that little bit of badness. Thanks for the update!

SanityFair

06/11/2008 11:38 pm

Confrontation

Wow- wasn't expecting anymore for awhile! Thanks! Glad Spike at least got to give the guy a little scare as retribution.

Inwen

06/11/2008 10:53 pm

Confrontation

I love reading this story, it just keeps getting better and better. I'm on edge, then I'm happy and I could scream for the amount of tension! Let this story never end!

vladt

06/28/2008 09:00 pm

Change

am sure spike is ready to kill anything. very good read, thanks.

06/11/2008 05:10 pm

Change

O My God! great chapters!!!! they need to have sex soon!!! Lol

sanityfair

06/11/2008 03:42 pm

Change

So, the crypt it is....it's very fitting for Spike I think. Hope your move wil be swift and you'll be back with posting soon! Lots of luck--moving is such a pain!

pfeifferpack

06/11/2008 03:00 pm

Change

Wow... and you were worried that you were all caught up LOL. If you don't post daily that's okay...we're here to read when you are ready. You've spoiled us with multiple updates daily but even gready sods like us will manage for a story this lovely.

Ahhhhh the crypt...I have a soft spot for it and glad he's looking to nest there. Naturally Buffy can help make it homey from the start. It is really practical too with the below ground access. Now they need to use restraint because they aren't likely to be interrupted! Oh my!

He's broken the "I love you" ice and now he'll keep saying it. Hope she gets over that last hump and returns the words. THIS Buffy isn't so damaged that she can't say the words and he needs and deserves them.

Great treat to find this updated!!

Kathleen

I know! I think catching up with myself gave me an impetus to write - I've just written two more chapters! :-) :Last update for a while will be tomorrow though- I'm losing the internet for a month. Oh dear!

Yep, he's definitely in his comfort zone with the L-word. Buffy's getting there but of course, fear of a repeat holds her back. But all will be well...

vladt

06/28/2008 08:55 pm

Caught

leave it to joyce to handle things properly. very good read. good read, thank you.

pfeifferpack

06/11/2008 02:56 pm

Caught

Ahhhh Joyce is in their corner...GOOD! She can see that Buffy will never have that picket fence life she wanted for her but with Spike at her side she might at least have life! Good for her.

Now to ease th rest into acceptance...not going to be easy and if Angel finds out he'll be back to mark territory faster than you can blink.

I think Joyce is wise in suggesting Spike find a place of his own....if no other reason than to keep them from disaster.

Kathleen

Lou

06/11/2008 12:42 pm

Caught

Wonderful Joyce - she really does know what's right for Buffy.

peck

06/11/2008 11:57 am

Caught

Don't be scared, we will be with you all the way! Love that they finally told Joyce, maybe soon others will know. Thanks for the update.

06/11/2008 11:25 am

Caught

They are so incredible sweet together. I knew Joyce would approve.

“No, no lecture,” her mother replied with a soft smile, “You’re my daughter and I want you to be happy. And I don’t think you could have found a better man to make you happy.” I just love that she says man. I didn`t like it in the show when Buffy constantly tried to convince herself he was just a thing.

Spike is just perfect for Buffy. I hope Buffy and Spike do something for him to loose the soul soon...just to show that he can be a good man without it. This story just gets better and better for every chapter:)

pfeifferpack

06/11/2008 02:54 pm

Fear

Oh dear they ARE playing with fire...but fire prettty!

I think at this stage the gang MIGHT be better able to accept Spike with Buffy...especially if he does something to make sure the soul stays put. Xander will still be jealous but accepting in time, once he realizes it will never be him. Giles and the Council are a different story....Giles might come around in time.

Nice repressed desire here.

Kathleen

Lou

06/11/2008 12:37 pm

Fear

Phew! That was close. It's too soon after the nightmare of Angelus for the Scoobies to be anything but horrified!

All4Spike

06/11/2008 12:30 am

Insecurities

Aw, that's so sweet!

peck

06/11/2008 12:03 am

Insecurities

Yay two today!! thank you!!

crazyinseattle

06/10/2008 11:59 pm

Insecurities

You were right. Melikes the chapters!!!!

God how I love them!!! But see? I told you(even though you wrote the chapters hahaha) insecurities get the better of them all the time.

And I just have to say GO JOYCE! I always knew she would probably approve of them.

06/10/2008 09:34 pm

Insecurities

I love this fic! Ijust read all the 37 chapters now! I cant wait for them to have sex!!!!!!! I'm feeling the tension! Lol

pfeifferpack

06/10/2008 09:19 pm

Insecurities

Poor Spike really did have his insecurities thanks to Cecily and Dru (and later canon Buffy)....he knew women liked his body but never really got that HE was of value. Nice that Buffy sees that and is trying to reassure him in this story

They are playing with fire here.....I agree that he'd still love Buffy and try to behave but the soul does make it easier for him to know how.

Excellent...love the updates.

Kathleen

pfeifferpack

06/10/2008 09:19 pm

Insecurities

Ann

06/10/2008 08:12 pm

Insecurities

Great update, and I love how comfortable and content Spike and Buffy can be so it isn't just fiery passion and lust that will fade. At the same time, Spike always seemed so live in the moment to me, seeking happiness and joy because he knew they wouldn't really last and fighting for them, so I can't see him as anything like Angel, thinking he should make himself stay unhappy because of duty to the curse.

I really like this entire story, not just the relationships but the differences and similarity to canon and this version of Spike and the plot. I can't help wondering if Spike will lose his soul or try to find a way to anchor his soul, but whatever path it takes I really look forward to how you will continue this fic. Thanks so much for writing it!

06/10/2008 08:07 pm

Insecurities

06/10/2008 07:14 pm

Insecurities

Loved the last two chapters:D You`re such a good writer. Keep up the good work;)

SanityFair

06/10/2008 06:59 pm

Insecurities

Great chapter---very sweet.

“You’re more than good enough for me, Spike,” she whispered, leaning forward to brush her lips over his, “Hear me?”

Great lines... needed to be taken to heart.

Avalon

06/10/2008 06:25 pm

Insecurities

I'm just lovin' this fic. Sorry I haven't reviewed as much, but RL has been keeping me too busy

*Hugs*

PS: I'm just waiting for Spike to loose his soul, are bets accepted?

Bets are accepted :-) But I win coz I know what's going to happen. Hehe. What odds shall I give for him losing his soul? Heheh. Glad you like.

Lou

06/10/2008 05:56 pm

Insecurities

That's more like it! Talking and snuggles sounds good to me.

dramionelurver

06/10/2008 05:30 pm

Insecurities

beautiful! loved it! and spike is so right! and he almost said it! he almost said the l-word!!!!!!!!!
~liz

nmcil

06/10/2008 05:22 pm

Insecurities

your story continues to be a pleasure - one of my favorite Buffyverse works of all the new stories being created -

once again, excellent development for past history and potential for their future -

vladt

06/28/2008 02:47 am

Repair

nice fix, but then spike is so easy. very good read, thank you.

All4Spike

06/11/2008 12:26 am

Repair

Yup, you fixeded it, but now they really ought to remember that curse.....

pfeifferpack

06/10/2008 09:10 pm

Repair

He needs to anchor that soul muy rapido! Nice connection there and fancy the idea of Joyce approving. I think deep down Joyce knows her daughter will never have that normal life and she likes Spike (unlike Angel who she didn't like in general).

Now Spike has comething to plan for, to work towards. Returned love is his Holy Grail and he's not going to want to mess this up.

Kathleen

June

06/10/2008 08:14 pm

Repair

Liked Joyce a lot in this chapter, especially how she didn't need the details or to pry to see Buffy and Spike needed to stay close. I keep thinking of Joyce's talk to Angel in season three that was part of why he left for LA, and comparing it to her treatment of Spike in this story. Great chapter, and love that Buffy can be a girl in love and not a Slayer rebelliously defying the risk, when she says "It's worth it."

SanityFair

06/10/2008 06:46 pm

Repair

You did indeed! I just finished reading the previous chapter--so happy I had this to follow immediately! I was thinking, "OMG, can she really be doing this....guess so!"

Lou

06/10/2008 05:49 pm

Repair

Nice fixing! They've a long way to go - just so long as she doesn't try out any more Todds. We all mistakes but that was a doozy!

dramionelurver

06/10/2008 05:24 pm

Repair

happiness! i knew you could do it! now, here i go on to the next chappie!
~liz

fangfaceandrea

06/10/2008 04:35 pm

Repair

yay and awwww. Lovely

peck

06/10/2008 12:15 pm

Repair

Yay angst is gone(even if its just for a little while). Thanks for the update.

06/10/2008 11:34 am

Repair

Yaaaaay!
He needs his soul anchored. Please?

All4Spike

06/11/2008 12:22 am

Mistake

Oh, silly Buffy! You've hurt both of you! As Spike said, I hope you were careful!

vladt

06/10/2008 07:52 am

Mistake

even for buffy, that was stupid.

crazyinseattle

06/10/2008 06:44 am

Mistake

Oh man!!! With all the chapters posted today I couldn't pause to review at each one because....I just kept reading.

I love this story so much! And kudos to you for pumping out chapters like they're nothing! I cannot do that. Haha!

I cannot wait for the next chapter! Oh Buffy....Spike....so insecure and closed off when it comes to feelings.

Methinks you're going to like the next chapter... :-)

Well, the secret to my bionic chapter-output is that I've already got several chapters ahead written up and ready to go. :-) Sneaky. Glad you're enjoying this and thanks for reviewing!

pfeifferpack

06/10/2008 05:56 am

Mistake

Oh Buffy that isn't how you get over your feelings for Spike...poor girl made the typical bad choice. I agree with Spike, hope she was protected!

Poor stupid Spike wanting her to have someone "real" and now having to deal with sensing she has tried.

Oh they so need to kiss again!

Lovely update.....they are so shell shocked with all that they have had to deal with (and wrong conclusions about each other) that they can't see clearly.

Kathleen

They are both very silly at the moment. But this little slip-up may have consequences of the good kind... :-) And, fear not, kisses are coming! Thanks for reading and reviewing as always!

Shadowsbabe

06/10/2008 02:54 am

Mistake

This is so sad. If they keep fighting this relationship, they're going to destroy each other.

Luckily they won't be fighting much longer, I can promise that! :-)

June

06/10/2008 01:37 am

Mistake

Maybe I'm deluding myself with wishful thinking, but with Buffy's clear disappointment in herself, sadness, and the belief that she made a mistake already, as well as how ambiguous the remarks were, I can't help but hope she did something besides sleeping with the guy in his car. Maybe something sexual, but even with Parker it took her a while to feel uncertain about her action and she came into the house already down. Ah, I'm being unrealistic, but it's my denial and I'm sticking by it!

I hope they get together soon and stop fighting their feelings, and not turn into a Buffy/Angel brooding, romantic tragedy. I guess if you get through the pain it makes the happiness better, but it's hard to remember when reading these great, uncertain, painful chapter and we think Buffy slept with someone almost because of Spike, when if she hadn't not been a virgin any longer she never would have done so so easily or quickly.

Please update soon!

It stays pretty ambiguous... sort of... so you can decide what happened. :-) Either way, bad bad plan on her part.

Fear not, no Bangel broody, oh woe is me tragedy to come. A little angst is good but that's way too much :-)

peck

06/10/2008 01:24 am

Mistake

Stupid, stupid Buffy! Oh I hope this angst is over soon, but you know I'll love it either way!

fangfaceandrea

06/09/2008 10:22 pm

Mistake

OMG poor Buffy,its was a poor choice, but understandable.

I hate how Spike kept asking, 'what have you done', sounds so accusatory .

Great chapter.

dramionelurver

06/09/2008 05:46 pm

Mistake

stupid stupid buffy!!! nobody but spike, doesnt she know this already?!?! ok, ok, stupid curse getting in the way. dang, you really gotta fix that!!!
loved the update tho.
~liz

Lou

06/09/2008 01:25 pm

Mistake

I fear Spike needs to move out. This just isn't working for either of them.

It's not going well, is it?! But you'd be surprised what sort of consequences this might have... especially with Joyce's influence. :-) Hmm, heavy hintage. Thanks for reading!

Catrine

06/09/2008 01:17 pm

Mistake

Very nice story!!!! But I didn`t like the last three chapters....when will they figure everything out??? Hoping for an update soon:)

They weren't very happy chapters... but in answer to your question: very, very soon. (like, tomorrow... :-) )

vladt

06/10/2008 07:45 am

Temptation

the scoobies always had great timing. very good read, thank you.

Lou

06/09/2008 01:21 pm

Temptation

It's not fair on either of them. Something's got to give!

peck

06/09/2008 11:35 am

Temptation

Oh wow, great chapter! They are probably going to explode soon(haha).Keep up the good work.

Glad to hear you liked. Something's definitely gotta give... and soon.

vladt

06/10/2008 07:40 am

Tension

perhaps, if they can't sort it out, joyce will do it for them. fun chapter, thank you.

Lou

06/09/2008 01:15 pm

Tension

At least that eased the tension! between them. Joyce is more knowing than she'd admit!

2ndWind

06/07/2008 07:56 am

Want

I won't be able to find out what will happen *sniff sniff* but excellent story. They really do both need a good slap upside the head. Hope it ends well but knowing you it probably will (yay). *sniff* T_T

Why not? Glad you like what you've read. I'm sure I can bring about a happy ending, fear not :-) It's what I do. Hehehe.

vladt

06/07/2008 07:31 am

Want

believe the author's comments at the end of the chapter covers almost everything. excellent read, thank you.

dramionelurver

06/06/2008 07:02 am

Want

okay. i trust you. and you gave us kissage, so.... =)
loved it! even tho there was drama! lol.
~liz

SanityFair

06/06/2008 02:42 am

Want

As I've said before, I've faith in you to make things right. Half the fun in reading is to see how you make it work! Have a lovely weekend!

pfeifferpack

06/06/2008 12:59 am

Want

Oooo hope she remembers his slip up. How long he's wanted her was a hint that it predates the soul...hope she dwells on that a bit.

Yes they are very in character. I think Spike DID feel undeserving of her after he got the soul....part of what held him back in S7 and after he came back from dusting...this makes perfect sense. Add to that her youth and having just lost Angel and he's not at all confident enough to offer what he does have, that loving heart. SHe'll have to make him see that what he has to offer is much more than most and that she wants it.

Buffy is quite young but glad she has realized it's not just a crush. She is concerned about his needs (what a lovely difference)...this bodes very well for the long tem but hell for now. Hope she sees that he needs to feel of value as a man and does something about that.

EXCELLENT! Enjoy your weekend and looking forward to Monday.

Kathleen

peck

06/06/2008 12:19 am

Want

Four updates for me since I missed it yesterday, I know you will get them together before the end, and a little angst won't be to bad.(It will only be a little, right?)

BT_

06/05/2008 11:01 pm

Want

Um, Spike? Why don't you just pop over to Giles' or something and see if they can "fix" the problem with the curse? Get that soul stuck to you all permanent-like? (Never really understood that clause, anyway. Dust him, infect him with boils, put his head on backwards, fine. Turn him loose on the population again? That was just idiotic.)

Well, his blood doesn't exactly run in the direction of his brain... takes time to think of sensible things I'm sure :-D

Yeah, pretty stupid curse. Kinda like in the Mummy where the curse gives him the power to be immortal and rule the world... idiots. I like the head-backwards idea better!

Lou

06/05/2008 09:58 pm

Want

No hate here, girl - I'm enjoying the stupendous goodness! Considering their recent traumas, I think it would be implausible if they got over it so quickly.

Yay! :-D Of course, a slight pause doesn't mean the Spuffy goodness is on hold forever. They DO want each other... but it's gonna take something big to wake them up to reality. Glad you don't hate. Thanks for reading!

June

06/05/2008 06:37 pm

Want

Don't want to sound dumb, but when Spike says "What I can give you... s'not even worth it." -what isn't it worth? What he could give her, love or whatever he's thinking of, isn't worth the loss of his soul?
Other than that little huh? moment, I really liked this chapter and all of Buffy's reactions were very real. Poor, impulsive Spike is trying to be responsible and mature and it just doesn't fit him. I think it's a lot more about having people who care about him, (and I loved that absent-minded kiss on the cheek Joyce gave him!) and Spike is afraid if other things get involved and complicate the relationships they won't care about him anymore.
Can't wait to see how you get them together now! Great story, as always.

Not worth taking the risk of possibly losing his soul. Spike feels so little of himself that he doesn't think what he has to give is worthy either, doesn't feel like he's worthy of Buffy. He is a silly, insecure vampire sometimes. :-)

Glad you liked this chapter though and understood why Spike stepped back - I was worried with this one. Thanks for reading and hope it makes sense now.

vladt

06/07/2008 03:39 am

Cowardice

any time soon buffy could actually talk to him. no that would cut too many chapters from this very good read.

SanityFair

06/06/2008 02:34 am

Cowardice

Thanks for all the updates...have been busy and when I logged in I found 3 chapters waiting! Seems things are picking up! Looking forward to reading the next chapter.

pfeifferpack

06/06/2008 12:46 am

Cowardice

Oh Buffy....so reading him wrong! She has just added to HIS insecurities! LOL What a mix up.

Love realizing that at this time she actually COULD confide in her friends and watcher and get actualy help and encouragement. They were all so open then. WOW did Angel do major damage!

See we get double today too (like Christmas!!)
off to indulge.

Kathleen

Lou

06/05/2008 03:12 pm

Cowardice

Awkward isn't the word. I bet Spike's gone househunting!

Pin

06/05/2008 03:11 pm

Cowardice

Sweet, awkward, painful ... great!

vladt

06/07/2008 03:18 am

Succumbing

very good read, thank you.

Lou

06/05/2008 09:54 am

Succumbing

Ouch - that was awkward. I hope it doesn't affect the progress they're making. I'm really liking how you keep focused on Buffy and Spike.

Well, expect more awkwardness and some surprising (or maybe not so) revelations... and a handful more awkwardness :-) Got to live up to my 'Best Angst' nomination, after all. hehehe.

Liza

06/05/2008 09:43 am

Succumbing

Stop teasing! I love the romance of the story, and the tenderness and hesitancy of th character feels truly authentic. HOWEVER, these last couple of chapters feel more like extracts. Mere episodes are frustrating because the plot of a short, serialised story is one of the most important aspects. Have you read 'Tales of the City' etc by Maupin? Excellent example of serialised hooks. Bring on the beef, and keep the chapters tighter and tauter. Sorry to seem critical, but it all stems from a desire for more. Reward your reader, don't tease her!

Sorry :-s *slap on the wrist* I guess I was just worried about making things happen too quickly... But I will be bringing on the beef, fear not, this was all just build-up. I will stop teasing... a little bit. Not that I can promise fluffy Spuffy goodness :-) Thanks for reading and thanks for the feedback.

liza

06/05/2008 09:37 am

Succumbing

pfeifferpack

06/04/2008 11:54 pm

Succumbing

She needs to think....why did he just assume he was rebound guy (after all he just lost Dru and the hundred year history there....if anyone MIGHT be a rebound it would be Buffy!). This should tip her off that Dru and Angelus were more than a brief thing and that Angel/us had always been a barrier, Spike had always been the "convenient substitute"...couple that with remembering how he treated Dru (like giving up all his own desires to save her from Buffy when locked with the vamp lovers for example) and she'll see how without the soul Spike can and did love.

I do go on! LOL You are writing this perfectly I do not mean to presume in any way!

Love the way they are dancing around each other. Very in keeping for the time and circumstances.

Typical Angel to not even write a note but make certain he marked his territory with the postcard.

Love Joyce and her easy move into family to include Spike.

Kathleen

Glad you're enjoying and please do feel free to go on- it's always lovely to get lots of feedback. Don't worry, the whole Dru/Angelus issue is sure to come up. Just not for a while... :-) Little less dancing around each other and a lot more directness to come... Thanks for reading!

06/04/2008 10:20 pm

Succumbing

Two updates - woohoo! :)

And Angel ruins the moment again! Without even being there!! Wanker.

But it's a promising start. Buffy just needs to realise that she doesn't need a rebound guy, she needs Spike. And Spike just needs to realise that he needs her, too. So now, all they really have to do is pack their bags and leave Egypt!

Great updates, thanks!

But Egypt is such a lovely place... beautiful river, sand... why would you want to leave? Yeah, arses need to be put in gear, but they're both quite vulnerable now and Buffy is not very experienced so yeah, it's not going to be an easy journey out of Egypt! :-) Glad you liked and thanks for reading.

vladt

06/07/2008 02:58 am

Haunting

for a change this buffy is thinking. very good read, thank you.

Lou

06/05/2008 09:46 am

Haunting

I think the message is getting through !

pfeifferpack

06/04/2008 11:42 pm

Haunting

Oh she's already there but not realizing it. Interesting that the dream ended with him biting her...a fear? A desire? A Slayer dream? Hum...

I'd love him to open up about William and also his years with Dru (and Angelus but I think I'd rather she find that out another way...maybe Angel slipping).

Loving this.
Kathleen
you deserve every one of the nom's not only for this story.

SanityFair

06/04/2008 06:42 pm

Haunting

What a dream! Yet another fine chapter...

June

06/04/2008 06:37 pm

Haunting

Happy that this is updating! The little hints about William and how Buffy thinks of Spike, even when trying to tell herself not to be attracted to him, are so interesting to see. Great writing!

Gia

09/25/2008 01:42 am

Weirdness

I love this story!!!!!!! Great work! It's soooooo cute! I can't get enough! I'm addicted! *gose to read the next chapter*

nmcil

06/04/2008 06:57 pm

Weirdness

"Love Story" - many years since I've seen that one - NICE chapter - just the right touch of humor and interaction between two really good friends that find themselves with a big surprise over what could be some very different feelings from their platonic relationship.

BT_

06/04/2008 03:43 am

Weirdness

OK, off to the rental shop tomorrow!
Nice chapter. Funny, soothing, emotional...
where's Joyce?

dramionelurver

06/03/2008 10:37 pm

Weirdness

oh, i was wondering when the spuffiness was a comin! that was beautiful. really? ive never seen it, note to self, ever wanna cry, watch love story. got it!
beautiful once again!
~liz

pfeifferpack

06/03/2008 10:31 pm

Weirdness

Tee hee....up you are right the music makes it worse (same with Titanic that got even my husband weepy the thirteen times we saw it in the theaters...don't laugh!)

So visual a chapter! They are bonding in such a natural progression. I'm just glad her friends aren't in the mind frame they had later and aren't trying to put a stop to this. Of course Joyce is in the picture too and that is a plus.

They really complete each other in ways that Angel never could. Hope she sees it very very soon and acts because I think this Spike will need for her to take the initiative (no pun intended there BTW).

Too funny that they both react to this as weird when it is actually quite natural and to be expected....very in character.

Excellent.
Kathleen

06/03/2008 09:20 pm

Weirdness

Great chapter - funny and sweet. Thanks for the update!

Lou

06/03/2008 06:45 pm

Weirdness

A classic near-kiss - that was a lovely moment. I'm glad Spike's finding his feet at last.

SanityFair

06/03/2008 03:50 pm

Weirdness

Could things be heating up? Such a great chapter!

They may well be :-) Glad you enjoyed it - I really enjoyed writing it.

vladt

06/07/2008 02:38 am

Support

excellent use of joyce. something they failed to do in canon. very good read, thank you.

peck

06/03/2008 03:32 am

Support

Thank you for the update.

06/03/2008 01:07 am

Support

Oh, I just love your Buffy.
Joyce is great, too, but lots of peple write a kind, caring, Spike-positive Joyce. Your Buffy is being so ... mature about all of this, and trying so hard to be what Spike needs. She is still in High school at this point, right? Before so much bad happened that she erected those huge walls around her ehart.
At any rate, I'm enjoying!!

06/03/2008 12:51 am

Support

I wonder what Angel would have been like if he'd had this kind of support? Probably not much different, considering he wasn't really a humanitarian before he was turned. But that begs the question, why did he really care so much when he got his soul back? Maybe because he was soooo evil without it?

Spike was never as truly evil as Angelus, though he likes to brag about being evil - all part of the male chest-puffing bravado, perhaps! :) No, he was a much gentler soul, which is why he feels it so deeply. His rational, academic side is helping him understand that he/his soul is not responsible for the killings, but his heart says otherwise. He's got the best support he could possibly ask for, though.

Great writing. I think it's wonderful that you are using Joyce so much in this fic. Sometimes I think she was underused on the show.

Lou

06/02/2008 11:58 pm

Support

This is so good - you're giving us a very different Spike and Buffy yet they're completely believable. Big thank you for a great read.

SanityFair

06/02/2008 11:15 pm

Support

I'm really enjoying your portrayal of Buffy. Thanks for another great update!

pfeifferpack

06/02/2008 08:17 pm

Support

Yup...she's more worried about Spike leaving than upset over Angel hitting the road....it's already started, more than started actually.

Love Joyce helping out and genuinely caring. I think she already sees the handwriting on the wall where these two are concerned.

Poor Spike it would be hard. ... rather like a cattle rancher suddenly trying to become Vegan and run a cow sanctuary! Every once in a while the lure of the sirloin would hit and the internal battle would begin! LOL...NOT as easy a transition as one would think actually...cows can be far more lovable than some people and harder to kill for it.

Really love the story progress, the relationship is very realistic and moving at a proper pace.

Lovely banners (both of them).
Kathleen

nmcil

06/02/2008 07:08 pm

Support

NICE - another update - I really like your treatment for Joyce - like the way you used Spike's reaction to their last patrol as way of bringing back to focus his reactions to being en-souled.

06/01/2008 08:09 am

Façade

I've just caught up with three postings. Congratulations on finishing your degree!!

Three great chapters. Emotional roller-coaster when read back-to-back. Poor Spike. But, two steps forward, one step back is still progress, just slow.

Thanks for the quick updates.

peck

05/31/2008 11:34 am

Façade

Poor Spike, one step forward, two steps back. Really like how the relationships are going in this story.

BT_

05/31/2008 04:44 am

Façade

Wow - that was a powerful chapter. The swaggering "old" Spike, coat and all, (yay) and then reverting back to the broken one. Wonderfully written.

05/31/2008 01:10 am

Façade

YAY!! the return of the coat!!!
okay, actually, that chappie was kinda sad. dang you. lol, jk. i still loved it.
cant wait to see what happens next. poor wittle spikey, all troubled and confused.

~liz

anon462

05/30/2008 07:11 pm

Façade

Damn!!! That's just like Sunnyhell. Things go good, things get better, then "Bam", everything turns to crap. Spike needs some TLC and a little snogging so he'll feel better.

fangfaceandrea

05/30/2008 06:57 pm

Façade

awww, Poor Spike , and he was all happy before. Buffy's right, though, he's going to need to learn how to cope.

pfeifferpack

05/30/2008 05:09 pm

Façade

Yes....Spike is still fragile but as he has ALWAYS done he hides it behind his armour.

"It was a barrier too, a façade to protect him, to protect that vulnerable man of whom she had caught no small number of glimpses. A vulnerable man that was not Spike, not William, but a combination of both. "
Precisely! That coat, the whole look actually, was always how he "suited up" for the role of big bad. The gentle poet was always in hiding but ever present.

Wonderful how Buffy sees and understands him. That is what she never did in canon...never really saw him at all until the end. Your Buffy does see and she cares. He needs and deserves this and it is lovely to read.

Kathleen

Lou

05/30/2008 03:11 pm

Façade

Double treat! You rock. Spike's expecting too much too soon from his recovery - hope he lets Buffy help him.

nmcil

05/30/2008 02:46 pm

Façade

Two wonderful new chapters - love how you brought him back to all his vulnerability - excellent use of his coat as his mask.

A great big "thank you" for being so regular with your updates - really appreciate your efforts -

SanityFair

05/30/2008 02:42 pm

Façade

Amazed to see Buffy's insight into the parts of Spike and have her not back away from it. Thanks for sharing another great chapter!

anon462

05/30/2008 06:50 pm

Bonding

Nice chapter. :) One friend helping another.

Lou

05/30/2008 03:09 pm

Bonding

Love the hair-do scene - they really are making good pals.

pfeifferpack

05/30/2008 03:56 am

Bonding

Indeed he is!

Yes they are developing a friendship....nothing bonds a pair faster than grooming one another LOL (not really joking there BTW)

They are so very comfortable with one another that it's sweet.

Love the gradual steps toward one another.

Kathleen

Good to hear. I'm having so much fun writing this easiness between them. Seems a shame to mess it up with UST... :-) But it'll come, fear not. And yeah, he's totally lovable. Thanks for reading!

vladt

05/30/2008 03:49 am

Bonding

"I'm just lovable." such modesty. delightful read, thank you.

Shame he doesn't really believe it. He is totally lovable. Glad you like. Thanks for reading.

timeofchange

05/30/2008 02:11 am

Bonding

Great new chapters!

Thank you very much! Glad you enjoyed!

peck

05/29/2008 11:50 pm

Bonding

Two updates again?! We are going to get spoiled really quick!

Much spoiling to come as well - I am effectively on holiday for three weeks so updates are going to get manic! Thanks for reading.

SanityFair

05/29/2008 10:56 pm

Bonding

Congratulations on your exams - the banner is great! Thanks for another lovely chapter!

Isn't it just? Dawnofme is a goddess. And thanks- I'm so glad to be free and as a result, slightly hyper! :-D

Thanks for reading. I think this chapter was one of my favourites so far!

BT_

05/29/2008 10:55 pm

Bonding

Loved the hair scene!
Where did he get the dye?
Their interplay in great - so friendly and fun.

Bought when he was getting his 'smokes'. :-) Probably should have put that in somewhere... Glad you enjoyed. I really enjoyed writing this chapter- lots of fun and of course, half-naked Spike. Woo hoo! Thanks for reading.

Kaitlyn

05/15/2011 04:37 am

Friendship

OMG! This is my favorite story I've read on this website so far. I even love it better than my own Spuffy story!

All4Spike

06/10/2008 11:02 pm

Friendship

Friends... yeah, right. I just hope they don't forget the pesky curse also affects Spike! Mind you, I don't see Spike going all Spikelus if he loses that soul, not now he's got close to Buffy & Joyce.

anon462

05/30/2008 06:38 pm

Friendship

Friends. Cool. :D

peck

05/29/2008 11:45 pm

Friendship

Kisses, even friendship kisses are of the good!!!

Well, exactly. Got to start somewhere... at least it's out of a dreamworld now, so we're getting somewhere :-)

pfeifferpack

05/29/2008 09:33 pm

Friendship

Perfectly lovely! Warm and tender moment here as two bleeding people cling to one another. The beauty is that we all know how perfectly they go together...now they will be finding that out as well.

Glad Buffy got past her own "hurt" to see the comparison and how insignificant her own "love story" was compared to a century of devotion. Poor Spike had spent his entire unlife caring for and loving Dru in spite of all manner of bad behavior on her part (he knew she couldn't help it...understood)...to lose THAT must be like finding your self adrift in a small boat in the middle of the ocean! Buffy's "love story" with Angel was a drop in the bucket with both time AND memory investment.

Lovely and tender. You have echoed the emotions of that scene at the end of FFL on Buffy's back porch....the tentative reaching out and comfortable silences.

Excellent.
Kathleen

Dru and Spike were pretty epic, especially compared to the minor event of Buffy and Angel. Spike's got his own suffering to go through, of course. But it's nice that they have each other :-)

Glad you liked. Thanks as always for reading and reviewing.

Lou

05/29/2008 09:15 pm

Friendship

The true friendship growing between Buffy and Spike is enthralling - they have such an innocence, despite everything that's happened.

Good to hear. I'm really enjoying writing this actually - angst, but not the usual kind of Spuffy angst. It's nice. :-) Thanks for reading.

nmcil

05/29/2008 07:52 pm

Friendship

great Spuffy encounter - it's grand to be able to give these two some real friendship and connection without all the drama and violence - I could make a Valentine Card from this; a lovely Spike and Buffy connection. Like many of the viewers, I never accepted that Angel and Angelus were separate men.

Merci! No drama (or minimal) and definitely no violence- always a good thing. There'll be none of that from me, rest assured. This story may well veer into fluffy territory with only mild touches of angst. :-) Thanks for reading.

BT_

05/29/2008 07:36 pm

Friendship

That was nice.
But now I'm waiting for the bad to show up...it usually does after nice...
Love that Spike is fitting in so well, just _being_ there.

No bad for at least, ohhh, several more chapters. :-) There has been bad after all- Angel left (well, it's bad for Buffy anyway...) Glad you enjoyed and thanks for reading.

All4Spike

06/10/2008 10:56 pm

Goodbye

I'm glad it was Buffy who accepted that the relationship with Angel was truly over. While heartrending at the time it's not nearly as permanently damaging as having her first love break up with her in the sewer just before the prom!

06/01/2008 04:10 am

Goodbye

vladt

05/30/2008 03:34 am

Goodbye

bravo!

Pin

05/29/2008 04:45 am

Goodbye

Whew! What a relief! I so glad that she made the break, since he was just going to drag it on forever! I really like the way that she sort out these issues.

Exactly. He suddenly lost his courage to walk away, so she just had to do it. Thanks for reading.

Pin

05/29/2008 04:45 am

Goodbye

Whew! What a relief! I so glad that she made the break, since he was just going to drag it on forever! I really like the way that she sort out these issues.

Pin

05/29/2008 04:45 am

Goodbye

Whew! What a relief! I so glad that she made the break, since he was just going to drag it on forever! I really like the way that she sort out these issues.

anon462

05/29/2008 03:54 am

Goodbye

I really wasn't expecting that. I thought that Angel and Buffy would get into an argument and Buffy would throw some of the things Spike said in his face. Then, whatever??? I never expected Buffy to willingly end the relationship. (Excellent writing!!!)

Ending the relationship with Angel gutted Buffy, but she held it together until she got home. (That scene, walking away, was fantasticly strong.) Once at home, where she was safe, safe with her mother and safe with Spike, she turned the pain loose and let herself experience it. (This was something the canon Buffy never had the chance to do. Yes, she cried when alone. But she never had the chance to share her pain or recieved understanding and support. Canon Buffy held all her pain inside, convincing herself that the extreme pain she was feeling was a measure of how much she loved Angel.)

Excellent chapter!!! :)

Hope you liked the surprise :-) It was tempting to get them into an argument... but then he probably wouldn't have left and that's what really needed to happen.

There were a few times when canon Buffy did cry in front of others, mainly over Angel, but yeah, generaly she hid it. But I think everything she's been through with Spike and her mum makes it easier to share with them... and it's about time so emoted some :-)

Thanks for reading!

dramionelurver

05/29/2008 02:36 am

Goodbye

awww... so sad for our lil buffy... but, still, good riddance angel!!!!!!
~liz

peck

05/29/2008 12:30 am

Goodbye

I don't know how I missed the update yesterday, but 2 chapters in one day for me, Yay!! I really love this story, keep up the great work!

05/28/2008 11:23 pm

Goodbye

Beautiful.

The emotions roll off the page, or screen, really. Spike and Joyce are just what she needed.

Thanks.

Thank you! A lot of raw emotion to write here- I'm just glad it turned out okay.

nmcil

05/28/2008 09:09 pm

Goodbye

As she curled up in her bed, alone, she saw Angel’s face before her eyes, as he had been the first time she had met him… and she forced it aside, closing her eyes and praying for sleep.

Just to add how much I liked the ending - I love how it brings in the vital change of perspective both in her understanding of Angel/Angelus and how being -ensouled works with the vampire-human entity. This seeing him as she first saw him and the forcing aside makes a beautiful metaphor - new truths and new paths to travel.

nmcil

05/28/2008 08:39 pm

Goodbye

Lovely chapter - again, the elegant simplicity of words to convey such deep emotional content - like your style very much.

Your Buffy is like what might have happened without the all important Faith poisoned arrow. Great use of series and your own story. I like your stronger heroine/woman; IMVHO, Angel made her so vulnerable to both her high capacity to love and as well to the darkness that an all consuming passion and love can fall prey to.

Thank you! Some of the best praise a writer can receive!

Angel did a lot of bad stuff and really wrecked her for anyone else. I just had to fix it. Thanks for reading!

June

05/28/2008 08:00 pm

Goodbye

Great chapter, and Buffy is clearly growing up and I bet dealing with Spike had something to do with it. Maybe I'm a little too hard on Angel, but it seems so in character for him to devastate Buffy with a noble statement that he'll be leaving for her, and then come back and hesitate and say he loves her... waiting for her to beg him to stay. I think Buffy feeling Angel made her so weak and act so humbly and still left was why she hated the thought of asking Riley to stay in Into the Woods.
Of course, the Spuffy part is what I'm interested in, and you know Joyce is going to think something of Buffy sobbing over Angel, and seeing Spike comfort her. I loved how you wrote that scene, and noticed the past-tense love too.
The Scoobies have been accepting of Spike, and don't seem to be thinking about the fact that the last vampire they accepted lost his soul and went on a killing spree. Spike has the same curse, he could lose his soul! And I wonder how different the experience of having the soul, Buffy's compassion, and living with the Happy Meals in a way that made them more people would affect soulless Spike?
Great update and looking forward to more!

Glad you liked the comfort/ crying scene. They're always hard to write, I find. Treading that fine line between real emotion and melodrama is always a challenge!

Glad you're enjoying and thanks for all the lovely feedback.

[P.S. Totally agree with you on the Riley thing]

SanityFair

05/28/2008 04:30 pm

Goodbye

Great pacing...I like the fact that ultimately Buffy told him to go. Her realization in the last paragraph was enlightening.

Yeah. I liked giving her some say in the matter. I felt that Angel wouldn't be ready to leave yet - after all, he drags it out for ages in canon. So, she can step up and get him moving on... and start moving on herself. Cunning.

Thanks for reading!

pfeifferpack

05/28/2008 03:29 pm

Goodbye

Wonderful! You know, I don't think there are many stories set in this time period where BUFFY makes this choice....good on her! I think she will heal much faster having been the one to do the leaving. It will certainly keep her from having Angel's name on the list of men who abandon her and that will be a big step in helping her be emotionally healthy.

Spike is so intuitive (just as on the show) and knows what she needs. He is just what she needs at this point....one who understands without judging. His own past with Angel makes it easier to understand that mix of love and hate he can inspire too.

The mental image of the hand holding mirrors the "147 days" scene from S7 and was lovely! As Spike was showing the same compassion it was perfect!

Kathleen

Aha! My cunning plan worked :-) I absolutely love the hand-holding in After Life and I just had to have an echo of it here. It's such a beautiful scene and yeah, great Spike compassion that just happened to fit with my story :-)

Yep, Buffy walking away- even if it wasn't her idea originally - gives her at least some power. And of course, hopefully she'll be less messed up by it all. Especially when she's got a Spike shoulder to cry on :-) Thanks for reading!

Lou

05/28/2008 03:10 pm

Goodbye

Heartbreaking for Buffy, but she knows she's done the right thing.

She does. Of course it hurts, but ultimately it's good for her. And of course for future Spuffy :-) Thanks for reading.

BT_

05/28/2008 02:33 pm

Goodbye

Yay Buffy! I'm so glad you had her take matters in her own hand and break it off with Angel. Gives her back some control of the situation with him.

This is a very good story, BTW. I"m not sure if I"ve reviewed before...

I think you have reviewed before bu comments like that are always welcome! :-) Thank you.

Yep, I wanted to give her some power back - she needed it, I think. Thanks for reading and I'm glad you're enjoying.

All4Spike

06/10/2008 10:50 pm

Myth

Glad to see Spike giving them all food for thought about just how devious Angel was in describing the difference between his souled and unsouled states.

vladt

05/30/2008 03:26 am

Myth

of course the poof had to appear, i wanted to hear her answer. very good read, thank you.

nmcil

05/28/2008 08:45 am

Myth

Wonderful discussion regarding the transformation with being en-souled - hope you will get back to the subject again during the story. Considering how vital this having of a soul was in the series, I always wished that more discussion was given to the theme in the series.

Great to have another update - looking with great interesting to the next encounter between Angel and Buffy.

It's going to be an encounter to remember, I promise. Thanks for reading!

Pin

05/28/2008 08:34 am

Myth

Wouldn't you know it - Angel always pops up when you dont' want him. Looking forward to seeing if Buffy reacts to Spikes statements about the soul and the person.

He does... but I think you might enjoy what happens in the next chapter. Thanks for reading.

Deb

05/28/2008 04:44 am

Myth

I love that Spike clarified for them what exactly having a soul did for him, and all the things it didn't do. I'm glad Buffy was letting him know that she doesn't want him to leave, as he seems to be fitting in with the Summers clan very well.

It had to be done - after all the rubbish Angel spouted, or at least never contradicted. And yep, who would want their very own house-Spike to leave?! :-) Thanks for reading.

nightshift

05/28/2008 02:30 am

Myth

I'm glad Spike is starting to be accepted by the gang. Then again, he's steadier.
Just by his presence Angel could mess up the moving parts on a rock. I never got their belief in the difference between Angel and Angelus myself. Yeah, people change--especially if they have decades to do so. Having change forcibly imposed from an outside source is something completely different. It's more of a "I'm sorry I got caught and if you weren't watching I'd do it again" rather than "I'm sorry I did evil things and will try to atone". Truthfully, the serial killer on parole quote always seemed to apply more to him, since the soul was never what you would call firmly anchored.

Definitely the best thing to describe Angel's behaviour - the least bit. And well, all of what you said. I think the fact that he's not a romantic interest (not yet anyway :-) ) makes it easier for the Scoobies to accept him as well. And, I always thought they kind of followed Buffy's lead with some people and if she's being nice to Spike, they may well join in to a certain extent.

Thanks for reading!

pfeifferpack

05/28/2008 01:15 am

Myth

OH what a tasty chapter! Giles really should have been like this on the show.....he should have been intrigued by Spike all along even before the chip and soul as he exhibited characteristics that put the Council dogma in question from the time he made his truce with Buffy.

You have hit on one of the major reasons why Spike was able to "adjust" to the soul so "quickly" in canon.....unlike Angel he never sought to seperate behavior. He was Spike and the soul may have caused him to see things a bit differently, perhaps even make some choices a bit easier to understand but the being was the same. Angel liked to be seperate beings...Liam, Angelus and Angel and his behavior was as fractured as that perception. It may have helped him to deal with the evil he had done but it was a lie and Spike never fell to that at all.

Love the way the Scoobies are more willing togive Spike a chance...they, like Buffy, had Angel issues in canon that made Spike have to "pay" for the leftover feelings Angel left in his wake. They are more open to giving him a chance at this point.

LOVE this and it is worth every nomination. I really hope you win!

Kathleen

Go me! :-) Angel always liked to make things easier by separating everything up but Spike was never that kind of person. He's far too straightforward to bother trying to hide from his past. So I believe anyway...

Thank you! I'm just happy to be nominated, and alongside so many brilliant fics that I love. It's great! :-) As always, thank you for reading and for leaving lovely reviews!

Lou

05/27/2008 11:06 pm

Myth

The Giles' conversation with Spike was so well done, you've really caught their characters. The small changes in Spike and Buffy's glimmer of realisation were very subtle. Then Angel appears at exactly the wrong moment!!! Excellent chapter.

Doesn't he always? But fear not- he will be gone soon! Glad you liked.

crazyinseattle

05/27/2008 09:59 pm

Myth

So ever since Angel and his whole moment of true happiness was sex....I thought...wow that is so....ridiculous. I mean...I'm not saying that isn't a great moment or anything but to me the happiest moment shouldn't have been that...it should have been something WAY WAY more meaningful. For example...when Buffy tells him she loves him for the first time.

Which is why that made me think what Spike would have as his happy moment and the only thing that makes sense would be when someone he loves tells him that they loves him...because....well I think that would be Spike's moment of true happiness. He was never loved no matter how much he loved. So yah. That is my thought. Haha. If he had been cursed with a soul...no matter how much he had sex with the person he loved...his moment of true happiness would have been when Buffy told him that she loved him. Thankfully(well not really because I also believe the soul didn't change him...only his view of harm and evil-ness) he wasn't cursed with one he WON himself a soul.

So yah. I've been thinking about that these last couple of chapters.

Wow, now you've given ME a lot to think about :-) I always just kinda thought maybe 'perfect happiness' was you know, code for sex with someone you loved. But yeah, I guess if you just take it as 'perfect happiness' in whatever form it could have a whole load of ramifications.

Anyway, thanks for reading (and for giving me plenty of food for thought as I continue with this fic).

05/27/2008 09:11 pm

Myth

arghh Poo Angel.

Loved what Spike got to syay

anon462

05/27/2008 07:29 pm

Myth

No Memory??? That college ass DID slip her a roofie. Good thing Spike got her out of there or she would have woken up with more than a slight headache. Wonder if Spike knew what had happened? Hey! Wait! If Spike figured out what happened, did he go back to the Bronze to have a "talk" with the college guy? Is that what he meant when he said his night was "entertaining"?

Things seemed to go pretty well with the Scoobies and I really liked Spikes talk with Giles. Have to think he opened a few eyes when he told them that Angel was a myth, that he really wasn't two separate personalities, that he was Liam, with a bit more sense. But that also means that he's Angelus too, just like William is Spike.

Ah, the Stalker is back. Can't wait to see what happens next, should be very interesting. :)

Didn't mean to imply that Todd had spiked her drink. Meant to blame the alcohol for blotting out the bit where she admitted to Spike that she had dreams about kissing him etc. And Spike's "entertaining" was again referring back to her admissions and her drunkenness. Wouldn't usually force an interpretation but Todd might make a re-appearance and I wouldn't want you think he was a stalker, scary type. :-D Or much anyway...

Thanks for reading and I'm glad you liked.

mark Evans

05/27/2008 06:28 pm

Myth

Thanks for another great chapter :D . I love Spike's explanation of how the soul adds to his personality. I can't wait for the next chapter.

Thank you very much. Glad you enjoyed.

05/27/2008 06:16 pm

Myth

The 'bloody pillock,' as Spike calls him just had to ruin the moment, didn't he?! I hope Buffy uses her new-found vamp/human/soul knowledge, and her growing anger towards Angel, to put him in his place!

The interaction between Giles and Spike is interesting. I've always had the feeling that if Giles got over his vamp predjudice toward Spike, they would get along quite well. They are both intensly curious academics, looking for a collegue. It will be interesting to see how much Rupert wants to get to know William.

Thanks for the update.

He has kind of ruined the moment, and he's not going to make it much better... But I won't give too much away. :-) Yeah, I think Giles and Spike are secretly kindred spirits- you do see glimpses of it sometimes (when they set off to fight Glory and quote the same thing).

Thanks for reading.

vladt

05/30/2008 03:19 am

Tipsy

sweet chapter, thank you.

nightshift

05/27/2008 02:33 pm

Tipsy

Good thing she has that guardian vampire. Otherwise she'd be fumbling in someone's backseat or in a closet somewhere with a complete stranger.

Quite possible, yes. He's handy like that. :-) Thanks for reading.

05/27/2008 07:33 am

Tipsy

Two lovely chapters!

"You smell good." Yes, I bet he does! *sigh*

A tipsy Buffy is always good for chuckle. Thanks! :)

Mmmm Spike smell. They could bottle it and sell it... :-)

Yep, I always enjoy writing tipsy Buffy and this was especially fun because it was her first encounter with alcohol. Thanks for reading!

anon462

05/27/2008 06:07 am

Tipsy

Not to bad, just a little tipsy. Glad she had fun though. I was a little concerned that the college guy might slip her something, but guess not. Hope she doesn't have a hangover in the morning. :D

Luckily, Spike was on hand to rescue her from the college guy... Funny that. :-)

Cas

05/27/2008 03:04 am

Tipsy

Pretty tame for drunk Buffy - but Spike helped with that...which is only fair since he's the one bought the drinks!

Well, quite! If he's going to facilitate the tipsy-getting, he has to at least look after her! :-) Thanks for reading.

peck

05/27/2008 02:33 am

Tipsy

Thanks for the update, it's a good thing Spike got her away from Todd.

Yep. Bleh, Todd. Not sure how voluntary it was on her part but I'm sure Spike is always a pleasant distraction! :-) Thanks for reading.

SanityFair

05/27/2008 01:58 am

Tipsy

Thanks for the updates. Glad Buffy kept herself in check. Looking forward to more soon!

And had Spike to help, of course. Thanks for reading!

nmcil

05/27/2008 01:27 am

Tipsy

Love your "softer side of Spike" and your early season Buffy. It's nice to have them in this Spuffy Friendly world -

Thank you! So do I. Well, love any incarnation of Spike, but yeah... Thanks for reading.

Lou

05/27/2008 01:04 am

Tipsy

Love Me Tender comes to mind. Wonderful Spike!

I want one of my very own to put me to bed. :-) Thanks for reading.

vladt

05/30/2008 03:10 am

Partying

spike caved. surprise. should produce another entertaining chapter. very good read, thank you.

dawnofme

05/29/2008 04:50 pm

Partying

Great chapter. Drunk Buffy. Looking forward to it. Now that I've read all that you have posted, I'm off to make a banner for you : )

I'm enjoying this story and can't wait for the next chapter.

anon462

05/27/2008 05:54 am

Partying

Cute chapter, all of it. :D

Lou

05/27/2008 01:01 am

Partying

Buffy's obviously feeling better - but how long will it last? Hello hangover!

vladt

05/30/2008 03:05 am

Therapy

it is a pleasure to see buufy appreciate spike. those nominations are well deserved. very good read, thank you.

nmcil

05/27/2008 01:07 am

Therapy

Congratulations on your nominations - you should put the links on your author's notes -

This is a wonderful Alternate Reality story - thanks for your regular updates

BT_

05/26/2008 04:05 pm

Therapy

Yep, "forget about Angel" - and I'm sure THAT's going to please the old poufter...Still, I'm interested to see what happens when the "real man" he pushed her towards turns out to be Spike...
Great story!

Thank you! I'm glad you liked. Thanks for reading.

05/26/2008 12:45 am

Therapy

Another wonderful, touching update.

William is certainly shining through that shiny new soul! But then, sometimes he was not far below the surface without it. I wonder how his demon is feeling. Angelus was also sooo pleased to be let out again. I don't get the same feeling with Spike. He just doesn't feel bad about what he's done. Even without the First, I think he might have gone crazy with guilt for a while, just because of the caring person that he was.

Buffy is certainly benefiting from having him around, too. She is maturing nicely. And Joyce continues to be her wonder, understanding, supportive self.

Thanks for the update!

I'm actually just working on a chapter (it's about 2-3 chapters' time) where Spike tries to explain the soul and the whole William/Spike thing- so look out for that. But yeah, he was always definitely more Williamesque than Angel was Liamesque. But then Liam was a prat...

I love Joyce! She was just great and brings much needed stability to the world of Buffy (and Spike too now). Thanks for reading!

peck

05/25/2008 10:18 pm

Therapy

Thanks so much for the update!

Thank you for following the updates!

05/25/2008 08:24 pm

Therapy

A wonderful chapter that is very realistic and true to all the characters but also fits in well with this plot very removed from canon. I'm glad Buffy is letting herself feel anger at Angel and not telling herself he's perfect and feels so guilty she can't be angry with him. As for Spike, I love the layers and how Buffy is seeing them, but what I keep thinking about is how Spike is cursed with a soul in this fic. So, if he gets happy enough he could lose it. And what will soulless Spike with these new memories he's been making and the insight into having a soul do?
Can't wait to read more, and not afraid of Angel-bashing! Great story!

He is indeed cursed. Which could lead to many problems of the not so good kind... Guess you'll have to wait and see. :-)

Thanks for reading.

Lou

05/25/2008 06:57 pm

Therapy

Lovely to see so much William in Spike... and a Buffy who seems to know her own mind is a rare treat. Their growing friendship makes for a fabulous chapter.

Merci beaucoup! I'm definitely enjoying writing a friendly Buffy and Spike. And of course shy Spike is lovely. Just want to give him a hug :-) Thanks for reading!

anon462

05/25/2008 06:52 pm

Therapy

I'm glad Angel-ass is leaving, I'm glad that Buffy had her one bad night of crying, but I'm really glad that she's starting to get angry. I always hated the way Angel could manipulate Buffy's emotions.

Hated it too. He had far too much power over her but I'm going to rectify that! :-) Thanks for reading.

[P.S. Angel-ass. Nice.]

Cas

05/25/2008 06:44 pm

Therapy

Ah! Better than retail therapy. Thank you.

Always good to hear. :-) Spuffy therapy... Thanks for reading.

pfeifferpack

05/25/2008 06:13 pm

Therapy

Oh lovely in every way. Love the shy William peeking out and being welcomed. I don't imagine he did have much in the way of positive reinforcement after his mother passed. Dru was more the sort that needed the spotlight on her (I am one of the few...or so it would seem... who really like and feel terrific sympathy for Dru BTW. She was not able to nurture, however because of what had ben done to her.)

The friendship between Buffy and Spike is natural and would have been just like this had he socialized with her before she built her walls. His friendship with Joyce is just what he needs.

Congratulations on the nominations....VERY MUCH DESERVED. This is not the only story of your worthy and I am sure others will be receiving nominations in due time (one does not wish to compete against oneself after all! LOL).

You are laying a wonderful foundation for a real relationship that will stand the test of time here. Lovely!

Kathleen

I'm definitely enjoying not throwing them straight into each other's arms (oh God, I'm going to be banned from this site, aren't I? :-D) I always think they need to know each other first, before anything serious can happen. But, of course, it'll get there eventually...

[P.S. I agree on the sympathy for Dru. Angelus totally messed her up. And I think Spie suffered as a direct result...]

Anyway, thanks for reading!

Joyce

10/11/2009 10:50 pm

Aftermath

Was that really a dream? Hmm.... Lots of things to ponder.

vladt

05/30/2008 02:55 am

Aftermath

very good read. great line, "Do you want me to kill him?" love the dream, thank you.

dawnofme

05/29/2008 04:27 pm

Aftermath

“You want me to kill him?” he asked seriously. LOL! Yes, please, Spike!

And shame on you for getting my hopes up with that dream! LOL! Actually, I like that it was a dream.

SanityFair

05/26/2008 04:03 am

Aftermath

Thanks for another great update!

Thanks for reading!

nmcil

05/25/2008 10:29 am

Aftermath

NICE update - NICE dream

Thanks! Glad you liked.

05/25/2008 08:58 am

Aftermath

Hmm..."She soon shook it off though, dismissing it as just a dream..." Dismissing it as a dream? Perhaps there's more to it, or am I reading too much into it?

Lovely chapter. Looking forward to more.

Perhaps there is more to it.... :-) But you'll have to wait and see. Thanks for reading and I'm glad you liked.

Deb

05/25/2008 06:27 am

Aftermath

Oh the subconscious is a wonderful thing! Something tells me that while she'll continue trying to live in the land of denial her mind will continue to let her know there's a better option out there. Loved that Spike told her mom so she could get some extra nurturance without having to explain, and the offer to kill Angel was priceless if only for the fact that it got her to laugh

Thank you :-) I think offering to kill Angel is definitely something Spike would do. Especially this Spike. Thanks for reading!

Cas

05/24/2008 10:52 pm

Aftermath

I have those dreams all the time! LOL

Lucky you! LOL. Glad you liked.

pfeifferpack

05/24/2008 10:46 pm

Aftermath

Hum the subconscious is busy at work solving all her emotional ills I see...makes perfect sense but not with Spike as a substitute merely the real thing.

I always thought that one reason Buffy held on so long to the "prefect love" she had felt for Angel was because it HAD to be that perfect love for her to live with all that had happened because she couldn't kill him.. Had she not hesitated to kill him Miss Calendar wouldn't have died and all those nameless people he fed on would have lived. To live with herself and her inaction (instead of just giving herself the deserved break that she was in shock and was young) it had to have been earth shattering love she had felt to have been worth the loss.

Your Buffy was really pretty much over her illusion of love for Angel but now that he is leaving is starting to fall into the same trap...making more of it than it was. It was first, young love built on a false view of the other...that is all.

Glad her subconscious is already on board with teaching her the truth. Between that and what her eyes can see and heart feel in her conscious time she should heal unlike canon Buffy.

Excellent.
Kathleen

Once again, a lovely long review. You're the best! :-)

I think Buffy's definitely going to realise more and more that Angel was not as great, that their love was not as great as they thought. It may take time - understandably - but she'll get there. With Spike's help, of course. :-) And maybe a little nudge from her subconscious. But obviously first love is something special and it takes time getting over that...

Anyway, thanks for reading and I'm glad you're enjoying.

dramionelurver

05/24/2008 09:49 pm

Aftermath

ha, i knew it was a dream! just a matter of time now...
loved the update.
~liz

It is indeed just a matter of time... Glad you liked. Thanks for reading.

Pin

05/24/2008 04:51 pm

Aftermath

Buffy - living in that land of denial. Interesting dream and I like the way the introduction of soulful Spike changes things so dramatically.

It does put a whole new spin on things - and especially Angel and his behaviour. Thanks for reading.

peck

05/24/2008 02:24 pm

Aftermath

Dream kisses could turn into real kisses soon, right? Keep up the great work.

But of course!! Paving the way... Thanks for reading.

time of change

05/24/2008 01:36 pm

Aftermath

I eagerly await each new chapter of this story. I'm really enjoying it.

I'm very glad to hear it! More will be up soon. Thanks for reading and I hope you continue to enjoy it.

Lou

05/24/2008 12:19 pm

Aftermath

MMmmmmmm -- nice dream. Nothing too radical, just the seed of a possibility.

Indeed... Don't want to rush it. Thanks for reading.

vladt

05/30/2008 02:41 am

Rupture

two simple lines: "it hurts'" and "I know..." beautifully done.

dawnofme

05/29/2008 04:08 pm

Rupture

Goodbye, Angel. : ) I like your softer versions of both Buffy and Spike. Your words made me "feel" for Buffy and I couldn't help but to be sad right along with her, even though I'm so happy to wave bye-bye to the Poof.

nightshift

05/24/2008 02:13 am

Rupture

Yep, Angel left and Spike stayed. And Drusilla's still out there unaccounted for. And her friends fear and distrust her new patrol partner. Mom and Spike are the only ones right now who aren't putting undue pressure on her. Looks like it's going to be a wonderful summer.

Isn't it always in Sunnydale? At least she does have Spike and that'll make it a bearable summer - and maybe increasingly pleasant one! Thanks for reading.

dramionelurver

05/24/2008 01:04 am

Rupture

awww.... poor buffy. see, this is why angel is an idiot that doesnt deserve buffy. look what he's done to her! in the name of love, pfft. whatever. anyways, loved the update... can totally picture the comfort scene in my head. *sigh* all guys should be like spike. lol. if only.
~liz

We can dream... :-) Glad you enjoyed.

nmcil

05/23/2008 10:21 pm

Rupture

really loving your story - and I like the how you handled Angel's message of "leaving." - again, simple but so effective. I like how you allow your readers to fill in with their own emotions and ideas with your treatment of the characters and their acts -

NICE variations on the series -

Thank you muchly! I wanted to have his leaving sort of echo the canon version, but of course with a twist because it's earlier. And of course, having Spike witness it is very good for the Spuffy :-) Thanks for reading!

Deb

05/23/2008 08:43 pm

Rupture

Well the hits just keep on coming with the two of them. Interesting that all it took was her hand on his chest and saying his name for Spike to back down. I think angel's leaving is a good idea, with that temper of his, but i can see why it would bother her so much. I wonder how long it will take Spike to tell her Oz's demon is always there, not just on the full moon.

They haven't had it easy, have they? My muse is very cruel to them. But at least they have each other for comfort...

Yeah, Angel definitely needs to get gone before he does some serious damage with that jealousy/ anger of his. And of course having him out of the way is always good for Spuffy! :-D Thanks for reading.

Lou

05/23/2008 06:56 pm

Rupture

Angel leaving already? What a quitter - presuming he stays gone. Can't help but feel for broken-hearted Buffy but I love how she's turning to Spike for comfort. Good to see him regaining a little of his moxie.

Well, if it was a toss-up between Spike and, well, anyone else for hugs, I know who I'd choose! :-) and yep, Angel is a loser. Thanks for reading.

fangfaceandrea

05/23/2008 06:39 pm

Rupture

awww poor Buffy, no matter how much I hate Bangel I can't help but feel sorry for her, because he always has so much power over her. But well, good riddance to him and let the spuffy good times come XD I really loved Spike posturing before Angel, btw.

Angel is a **** (insert word of choice) but she did love him and it's still got to be hard to realise that the person you love is not who you thought they were...

Thanks for reading and I'm glad you especially enjoyed Spike mouthing off to Angel. It had to be done :-D

SanityFair

05/23/2008 06:23 pm

Rupture

He's leaving--yipee! It's wonderful to see her turning to Spike for comfort, he's so tender and compassionate. Just lets her be and it's lovely.

Well, we saw just how tender he could be with Dru - it just needed to be released. And yep, Angel will be leaving because he is indeed a poophead. :-) Thanks for reading!

pfeifferpack

05/23/2008 06:17 pm

Rupture

Lovely chapter.....Spike has his bite back at least with Angel (makes perfect sense...no reason to hold back from guilt with HIM). Angel is as big a wanker as in canon...note he didn't apologize to EITHER Buffy or Spike for that last encounter either....pfffft

Hum...since Spike got the soul from a curse I wonder if he'll try to anchor it even though Angel has never bothered to. He may not have wanted it but now that it's there (and as he falls for Buffy) I can't see him worrying about it going walkies or leaving her, "for her own good" like another souled vampire we all know.

Love the escalating tension between the vampires and Buffy stepping in . Noticed she spoke to Spike as if she realizes on a basic level that HE would at least listen to her and care about her desires whereas Angel would not.

Love Spike's compassion and caring...very tender.

Kathleen

Well, it's a good opportunity to flex his Big Badness at someone at least. :-) But Buffy's there to hold him back- I'm glad you noticed that.

Yep, Spike is great and Angel is, as we all knew, a big poncey idiot. (I'm really not good at this Bangel lark. :-D) Just have to wait for Buffy to realise this... at this rate, it won't be long.

Thank you again for your lovely review!

Joyce

10/11/2009 10:41 pm

Patrol

Good on Oz for speaking up. It's the quiet ones who are most insightful.

Lou

05/23/2008 06:23 pm

Patrol

When I think back, the Scoobies hadn't had that much interaction with Spike at this point. Their reactions were pretty decent really. Nice miaow turn from Cordelia and cool Oz was so kind.

peck

05/23/2008 02:07 pm

Patrol

Thanks for the update!

nightshift

05/23/2008 10:19 am

Patrol

I always liked Oz. Understated, perceptive, and way cool. You captured him well.

05/23/2008 07:52 am

Patrol

Two great chapters - thanks! I love how you used Oz. I always thought he was cool. And you've got Cordelia down to a T! :)

Deb

05/23/2008 04:58 am

Patrol

How much do i love Oz for trying to reach out to Spike, but doing it in a subtle way. That werewolf is the best! Poor Spike. First he had to answer about the coat, and then face the scoobies all looking at him like an experiment gone awry. Hopefully the slaying will release some tension for both of them

surefall

05/23/2008 12:33 am

Patrol

I'd like to lend my voice to Kathleen's. I too thought that you did the Scooby reaction really well here. Not mean, but not super-welcoming. Just a "meet a new person" curiousity/awkwardness/dunno-what-to-sayness. I liked!

Also liked Willow's 'you've broke up!?'. =D Loffle you, Willow, cut right to the heart of the gossipy goodness.

pfeifferpack

05/22/2008 09:40 pm

Patrol

And a new lifestyle begins on shaky feet. Nice! Very logical plot development...I can see Joyce uggesting Spike going along and putting into words something they both want but didn't want to voice.

Nice moments about the duster....yes his past matters, especially to note the differences at this point.

The reactions of the scoobies was realistic...not sure what to say actually and a mix of curiousity and uncomfortableness. Catty Cordy is in charater too. LOVE that it was Oz to speak to Spike...I always thought there would be a natural friendship there for so many reasons...the coolness factor for on plus the killer on a leash aspect as well.

Really progressing nicely.

Kathleen

You always leave such lovely long reviews! (much appreciated!) I'm glad you like where I'm going. Sometimes I'm not entirely sure where I'm going so it's nice when it comes out decently...

Yep, they're going to be spending a lot of time together now - non-crazy time as well, so they're going to be getting close (of course!). Thanks for the comments on Cordy and Oz- it's been so long since I watched episodes with them in, I was worried I might get them wrong.

Once again, thank you!

SanityFair

05/22/2008 09:40 pm

Patrol

Interesting reactions by all. Looking forward to more. Thanks!

05/22/2008 09:01 pm

Patrol

well well , they're out and about. glad to see it :)

Joyce

10/11/2009 10:29 pm

Hurt

True that first love is all consuming and the effects stay with you the rest of your life.

nmcil

05/23/2008 10:00 pm

Hurt

wonderful chapter - love the simplicity of words about LOVE and how they hide such powerful ideas about deep relationships -

Thanks Much for the regular updates - very much appreciate them.

nightshift

05/23/2008 10:14 am

Hurt

Looks like she's looking for reassurance before she takes the plunge with another vampire. I don't know if she even realizes that yet, but I'd be willing to bet Joyce does.

Deb

05/23/2008 04:53 am

Hurt

Interesting how they take time comforting each other about their personal demons. although the cause for their sadness and pain is different they definetly are showing some real compassion towards one another. And joyce's mothering is sure to be that extra needed help.

SanityFair

05/22/2008 09:34 pm

Hurt

Just enjoying this read so much!

vladt

05/25/2008 04:59 am

Cured

sweet read, thank you.

Deb

05/23/2008 04:49 am

Cured

That's some powerful blood she's possessing. With her protective feelings towards him, and his concern for her pain I'm thinking he might be staying awhile longer even though he is becoming more capable.

nmcil

05/22/2008 07:36 am

Cured

Thanks for all the wonderful new chapters - pleasure reading this work -

SanityFair

05/21/2008 10:59 pm

Cured

Thanks for letting us witness the shy, tentativeness of this relationship; it's not a direction often taken.

Lou

05/21/2008 10:58 pm

Cured

What a gorgeous chapter - swoony sweetness and shy hesitancy. I'll enjoy the tranquillity while it lasts!

05/21/2008 10:16 pm

Cured

A sane Spike - I was kind of hoping for another blood donation, but I'll take him as he is. :)

Mmm...shower. Can he have those lovely curls afterwards, I really love the "basement" hair!

pfeifferpack

05/21/2008 07:24 pm

Cured

How sweet and touching! Lovely scene. He is coming to grips all thanks to her and she is going to finally see him, really see him. Perhaps she'll notice how human he was even at his worst.

Love this story.

Kathleen

All4Spike

06/10/2008 10:13 pm

Split

I'm glad Buffy didn't let Angel get away with the lame 'Angelus made me do it' excuse.

vladt

05/25/2008 04:54 am

Split

love the tander send at the end of the chapter. very good read, thank you.

nightshift

05/23/2008 10:09 am

Split

How very brave of Buffy, to confront Angel instead of letting him weave his little pattern of deceit and allowing herself to believe it.

05/21/2008 04:04 am

Split

Two chapters! Thank you, thank you! Awesome writing again. Typical Angel trying to blame Angelus. At least Buffy is seeing the truth now, thanks to Spike/William. As always, looking forward to more.

peck

05/20/2008 11:41 pm

Split

Thank you so much for the update!

BT_

05/20/2008 10:42 pm

Split

and what is Angel going to do now? Probably nothing good... Loved that he was scared of Joyce!
And still lucid! that's good!

05/20/2008 10:06 pm

Split

Glad Buffy told Angel in no uncertain terms that she knew he couldn't blame his actions on Angelus even before he had fully formed that lame excuse! Shame on him! And now I'm wondering what it is that is keeping Spike grounded in sanity-- maybe being able to focus on a young blond girl? And I'm glad he wasn't trying to bad-mouth Angel and make Buffy defensive and try to find excuses for the overgrown forehead.
Great chapter, Buffy is really growing up, but her characterization is realistic and true to the situations and I love how you write newly-souled but without-a-Hellmouth-and-First Evil-trying-to-torment-him-into-insanity Spike.

Lou

05/20/2008 08:04 pm

Split

Angel seems to be on his best behaviour and genuinely remorseful, or is it an act??? Nice update.

SanityFair

05/20/2008 07:55 pm

Split

Glad she he's there to offer comfort.

Goldm00n

05/20/2008 07:20 pm

Split

awwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww great chapters! Glad i got caught up can't wait for more!!!!!

GrammarGal

05/28/2008 02:01 am

Moving

Just started reading your fic today and... OMG, it is awesome! Really beautifully written and totally addictive (I'm probably going to be glued to the computer today until I'm all caught up!).

Just one thing I wanted to point out, and really I hope you don't take offence, I really eman well! I've noticed a few mistakes in your use of the word 'quip'. For example, you have written:

" 'Could things get any more confusing?' she quipped sadly"

A quip is a smart, witty remark - Buffy makes a lot of quips that are funny, particularly when slaying. But you seem to pop the word in in replacement of words like 'said'... there are many sad, touching moments in your fic, and then the word 'quip' comes out of nowhere, and doesn't suit the tone of the scene.

Again, I hope you don't get offended by this, I just wanted to alert you to it in case you didn't realise...

Can't wait to read more of your great work!

Off the top of my head, I think most of the 'quips' are actually 'I'm dying inside but I'll smile and make quips and everything will be fine' moments... But you're probably right. {with a name like GrammarGal I'm pretty sure you are. :-) ] I'll look out for that! Thank you for pointing that out -not offended in the slightest. (This is why I should really pull my finger out and get a beta!)

Also, thank you so much for your lovely words of support. I'm glad you're enjoying it and that you gave it a chance. Hope you enjoy the rest!

vladt

05/25/2008 04:49 am

Moving

enjoy the way buffy is relating to spike. very good read, thank you.

nightshift

05/23/2008 10:04 am

Moving

It's really hard to just switch off your feelings for someone, especially when you've only had a very short time to do. Buffy's doing pretty well, all things considered.

pfeifferpack

05/20/2008 08:28 pm

Moving

They will both be better emotionally AND safer there...glad they've moved.

Already he is far more concerned with Buffy's feelings than Angel is. There is a fundamental difference between the two MEN not just the two vampires. Buffy has already had clues....hope she puts on r best Nancy Drew hat and sees them!

Excellent.

KAthleen

Lou

05/20/2008 07:57 pm

Moving

Buffy really opening up - that's something very new.

SanityFair

05/20/2008 07:49 pm

Moving

Thanks for the 2 updates, loving her realizations.

vladt

05/25/2008 04:43 am

Shock

love the stubborn summers women. very good chapter, thank you.

BT_

05/20/2008 02:20 pm

Shock

This story is very good. I am enjoying the way Joyce is keeping her hand in, but still letting Buffy do what she needs to do as best she can - trusting her.
Can't wait to see what will happen next.

timeofchange

05/20/2008 12:33 pm

Shock

This is a lovely story. I'm really enjoying it.

letitia

05/20/2008 04:31 am

Shock

just getting a chance to read and catchup. I am so intrigued with this story and loving it thus far.

nmcil

05/20/2008 04:12 am

Shock

Thanks for the new chapter - pleasure to read this story - Hope you are enjoying your new work - will be a wonderful addition to the Buffyverse fan fiction -

nightshift

05/20/2008 01:15 am

Shock

I have a feeling Angel's little temper tantrum is going to signal the downfall of the "angst filled, tragic love story" that was Buffy and Angel. Teenage girls are capable of a lot of self-deceit, but with someone to care for and someone depending on her the pity party isn't going to last very long.

peck

05/20/2008 12:07 am

Shock

I really love the way you are writing this, keep up the good work!!!

Tamara

05/19/2008 11:35 pm

Shock

Looks like Buffy is starting to see who Angel really is.

Lou

05/19/2008 09:18 pm

Shock

I love the calm kindness between Spike and Buffy, so caring with each other. Such a treat! Wise Joyce's presence is just what they need. Great contrast with the shock/horror of Angel and Dru's visits.

05/19/2008 08:56 pm

Shock

Lovely chapter. William is shining through in a wonderful way. Joyce is being her typical strong, sensible self, and she's just what Buffy and Spike need. Thanks for the update!

Oh, one more thing, I hope Spike gets more Slayer blood! :)

fangfaceandrea

05/19/2008 07:22 pm

Shock

This story is so bittersweet, I love how they're having this quiet moments when he is really there, but a part of me doesn't want them to fall in love because of the crappy curse. Anyway will be waiting to see how thigs work out in the summer's house.

Avalon

05/19/2008 06:49 pm

Shock

Sorry I haven't been commenting every chapter, RL has sort of gotten in the way... But I'm reading and liking :)

Poor Buffy, Angel's a big old meanie *kicks Angel in the shin*. At least she's got Spike :)

SanityFair

05/19/2008 06:26 pm

Shock

My, I'm loving this story more and more! Love how it's progressing!

Mark Evans

05/19/2008 06:18 pm

Shock

Thank for yet another great chapter :D . It's so nice to see Spike lucid. Can't wait for the next update.

Pin

05/19/2008 05:27 pm

Shock

Very nice. I like this set of relationships, and I always think things work better when Joyce is involved. You do a wonderful mean-crazy-selfish-obsessed Angel,, too. Thanks!

pfeifferpack

05/19/2008 05:00 pm

Shock

Oh this is my favorite chapter yet! Lovely bonding with sane, gentle Spike! Even Joyce is in on the bond....perfection! Lovely voices and touching, lump in throat moments.

Love that Spike understood his dark princess' motives and tried to make sense of them to Buffy too BTW. Poor demented Dru...another of Angel's leftover "problems" who paid for HIS sins. Still hoing Buffy finds out William's history with Angel (best if it comes from...or overhearing for her to believe).

I am truly enjoying this story so very much.

Kathleen

All4Spike

06/10/2008 08:05 pm

Eruption

“Maybe you don’t know me as well as you think you do,”
Too right! Buffy never did know the 'real' Angel!
Now she's beginning to see him without the rose-tinted glasses of a teenage crush.
Now then... just as long as she doesn't go for a trip down that river in Egypt....

vladt

05/25/2008 04:36 am

Eruption

well, that should hasten angel's departure from her life. very good read, thank you.

05/19/2008 09:46 pm

Eruption

Wow. Love Angel's reaction.

nightshift

05/19/2008 10:16 am

Eruption

Buh-bye Angel. You don't just sling the Slayer into a wall and expect any kind of pleasant greeting the next time you see her. You'd think he'd know that Drusilla was just there--especially since I have my suspicions as to who brought her there--although the blinding jealous rage might have made that little fact go unnoticed. Revello Drive is looking pretty good now, because it has a disinvite for Angelus and Drusilla was never invited in the first place.

05/19/2008 06:36 am

Eruption

Ooo, scary Angel! Or maybe it was Liam. Sometimes it's hard to tell with him. I think Buffy needs to do a little more research with Giles to find out just what exactly she is dealing with.

Maybe the little bit of Slayer's blood will help Spike. I know it was only a few licks, but it's potent stuff.

Thanks for the update. Looking forward to more!

peck

05/19/2008 03:32 am

Eruption

Yay for this update! Hope for more soon. Thanks.

dramionelurver

05/18/2008 11:33 pm

Eruption

oh my gosh. angel is a *grrrrrr!* COMPLETE LOSER! ( there, kept it clean :P) i cant believe he hit buffy!!! good for spike on the self control! and geez, figures dru would do something, eh? well, loved the update. oh, like the idea of spike staying at the summers. maybe itll happen faster after this lil incident.
~liz

dramionelurver

05/18/2008 11:32 pm

Eruption

pfeifferpack

05/18/2008 10:43 pm

Eruption

Well the night of the exes had some interesting revelations. Buffy saw a side of ANGEL that she didn't expect (and how will she dealwith his backhanding her and refusing to even let her talk?? She's not so "in love" now that she'd accept it from him). Yes they need to get Spike to Joyce's house where he'll be safe from Angel.

I really hope that Buffy DOES find out the history between these two during the course of things.

Excellent....LOVE this story!!

Kathleen

crazyinseattle

05/18/2008 10:41 pm

Eruption

I just have to say how much I am enjoying this story. This chapter was especially amazing!!!!!

Keep it up!

Mark Evans

05/18/2008 09:59 pm

Eruption

Thanks for the great update :D . Who knew that I could hate Angel even more, lol. I can't wait for the next chapter.

SanityFair

05/18/2008 09:45 pm

Eruption

I must say, things have most certainly taken an interesting turn! I'm left more eager than ever for your next update!

goldenusagi

05/18/2008 09:02 pm

Eruption

Ooh, Angel is not happy. Loving Spike and Buffy!

Lou

05/18/2008 08:44 pm

Eruption

High drama indeed! That was riveting. Excellent update.

All4Spike

06/10/2008 07:59 pm

Progress

Good idea Buffy, to prompt Spike into doing better than Angel!

vladt

05/22/2008 04:18 am

Progress

"'Course I can." now that is spike. very good read, thank you.

05/17/2008 07:19 pm

Progress

I've just caught up with three updates - hooray! This is a beautiful story. Joyce is wonderful, as she always was on the show. Angel seems worried about what Spike will say, and so he should be! I wonder how Buffy will react.

Great writing, thanks!

peck

05/17/2008 01:08 pm

Progress

Yay for updates! Thank you for this story.

timeofchange

05/16/2008 07:47 pm

Progress

This is a wonderful story. I look forward to reading more.

dramionelurver

05/16/2008 02:17 am

Progress

oh, bonding!!!!
so sad, love it tho.
cant wait for more.
~liz

BT_

05/16/2008 02:14 am

Progress

This is really a great story. You are writing CrazySpike very well and the interactions amongst all the characters is well done.
I can't wait to find out what set Spike off when Angel went into the room. I'm thinking he tried to get Spike to do something to Buffy or Joyce.
Looking forward to more!

Lou

05/16/2008 12:26 am

Progress

Progress indeed. Wonderful dialogue, so authentic.

pfeifferpack

05/15/2008 11:59 pm

Progress

Wonderful slow building of a real relationship here. Yes at this time in Buffy's life her heart was soft and loving enough (and trusting) to have helped in this way....very believable. Small steps but ones that are logical and necessary.

Excellent.

Kathleen

Carol

05/15/2008 11:32 pm

Progress

I'm really loving this. It's my favorite story right now. I like the way you're building the friendship.

nightshift

05/15/2008 10:39 pm

Progress

Nice to see Angel doing his very best to make everyone's life easier. That would be my sarcastic voice. I guess he figures that helping the Slayer while she isn't in with Spike is just too much work. Talking, yeah, that doesn't take much effort. But I just can't see him taking patrol or something while she's otherwise occupied.

Ann

05/15/2008 10:26 pm

Progress

So happy to see more updates! I love how you stay true to Buffy's faithfulness and loyalty but still have her not totally blind and in love with Angel. And I think Spike's reaction to Angel is much more than just not liking him and that it will come out sooner or later.
Wonderful story and great updates!

fangfaceandrea

05/15/2008 03:42 pm

Progress

great to see Spike getting better

SanityFair

05/15/2008 03:06 pm

Progress

Love how they are with one another in this chapter, kind of unsure of what's going on. Interesting that she wants to be called by her name and not her title. Can't wait for more!

Deb

05/15/2008 01:27 pm

Progress

That may have been the right comment to make to stir up Spike's competitive nature. Nothing like the comparison to his greatest advesary to remind him of the importance of pulling himself together. Maybe she should feed him more so his periods of coherence will last longer.

All4Spike

06/10/2008 07:55 pm

Family

Oh, I wonder what Angel was tryinng to get Spike to do that upset him so much? Good for Joyce telling Buffy she should bring Spike home to look after him.
Oh, Buffy! How disappointing! Why would you want Angel cuddles and kisses after that?

vladt

05/22/2008 04:05 am

Family

joyce seems to quickly size up angel. 'm sorry i asked where he was. very good read, thank you.

Lou

05/16/2008 12:20 am

Family

I wonder what Angel did to set Spike off, or was it just the fact that he was there. I think not.

nmcil

05/15/2008 09:18 pm

Family

Great Chapter - really like the subtle way that you are handling the emotional changes that come from the Angel/Angelus phase -

fangfaceandrea

05/15/2008 03:31 pm

Family

Yeah, well this Buffy i quit forgiving, maybe that's good cause if she wasn't she'd probably kick Spike out. But the relationship with Angel still squicks me out, specially so soon after Becoming. Anyway, i just wanted to let you know I'm really enjoying this.

SanityFair

05/15/2008 02:56 pm

Family

I can't wait for Joyce to get them out of there! Thanks for another double update!

Deb

05/15/2008 01:21 pm

Family

How great was Joyce, and her subtle ways of letting Angel know she is not a fan. i was surprised that she was willing to let Spike move into her house, but I can understand her desire for Buffy to come home. Seems the relationship between Buffy and Angel is very mercurial right now. i don't know if having Angel's smell on Buffy is going to help Spike trust her more.

nightshift

05/15/2008 11:45 am

Family

Buffy is persistent in her Angel stupidity. And yay Joyce, for the sly comments.

vladt

05/22/2008 03:58 am

Reconciliation

just what buffy needed, support and love. where is her boyfriend? oh, he can't handle being there. very good read, thank you.

Lou

05/16/2008 12:16 am

Reconciliation

Joy.ce on board will be a lifesaver for Buffy

nightshift

05/15/2008 11:41 am

Reconciliation

I like the kinder, more compassionate version of Joyce. Although it helps that a lot of Buffy's "antisocial" behavior is explained by her being the Slayer.

nmcil

05/14/2008 08:00 am

Reconciliation

nice that you have this coming together again between mother and daughter - this makes the perfect "mother's day" chapter.

Excellent Story

I didn't even realise! (Our -UK's- Mother's Day was back in March) Oh well, good unintentional timing :-) Glad you're enjoying.

anon462

05/14/2008 03:44 am

Reconciliation

I'm glad Joyce came to see Buffy and made up with her. Buffy needs her mother, and maybe William needs a mother too???

I think he may well do. Anyone who can show some compassion (*cough* Angel) must be pretty welcome right now. Thanks for reading!

Deb

05/14/2008 01:23 am

Reconciliation

Joyce seems remarkably calm and accepting. That must have been a phenomenal talk with Giles. I wonder how William will respond to her, because i doubt Joyce will really wake her daughter if he has an episode. She's too much of a mom for that.

SanityFair

05/13/2008 11:53 pm

Reconciliation

So glad you've brought Joyce into the mix. Hopefully she'll be helpful in sorting things out. Thanks, as always for the update!

pfeifferpack

05/13/2008 11:27 pm

Reconciliation

YAY Joyce! She will likely be a big help. The closest person to William was his mother. I always thought Joyce reminded him of her and that is one thing that he needs now. This will be a massive help to Buffy and to Spike. Maybe she'll get to "know" and dislike Angel too!

Excellent.
Kathleen

It's quite likely ;-) I always liked Joyce and wanted to show her being a bit more understanding about the whole Slayer thing. And of course, the whole soul thing. She'll definitely be a help to poor Spike. Thanks for reading!

Goldm00n

05/13/2008 10:53 pm

Reconciliation

Great chapter!

dawnofme

05/29/2008 07:23 am

Jealousy

Jealous Angel, thankful Spike and now mom. : ) Great chapter.

SpikesKatMac

05/22/2008 12:10 am

Jealousy

Loved the reappearance of rational!Spike; can't wait to see what Joyce has to say; I'm betting Giles or Willow sent her!!

Lou

05/16/2008 12:11 am

Jealousy

Another slice of superb writing. This is just fabulous.

Goldm00n

05/13/2008 08:32 pm

Jealousy

awwwwwwwwwwww I just find this story and it stops here???? man! great start!

05/13/2008 01:41 pm

Jealousy

I absolutely love this story!

Deb

05/13/2008 12:37 am

Jealousy

I completely agree that Angel is being unnecessarily jealous. She's only being caring towards someone who has had their whole world changed. Which is more than can be said for him about this situation. I wonder how Joyce is going to respond, as the picture of Buffy alone in an old mansion with a half-crazed newly souled vamp has got to be a shock

05/12/2008 11:55 pm

Jealousy

I wasn't able to read all weekend and what do I find? FOUR chapters! You are awesome!

Liam's true colours are shining through, that's for sure!

I have a sneaking suspicion that Joyce is going to help - she always did have a soft spot for Spike.

Lovely writing, looking forward to more.

All good things to hear. And yep, we're going to be seeing plenty more of Liam in the coming chapters. Thanks for reading!

All4Spike

05/12/2008 11:09 pm

Jealousy

I like your tender caring Buffy, and I'm just waiting for Angel to explode with jealousy. Good for Joyce for coming to see Buffy, let's hope she helps her care for Spike.

nightshift

05/12/2008 08:31 pm

Jealousy

Hmmm. I wonder if it was Angel or Giles that told her mom where she was.

anon462

05/12/2008 08:29 pm

Jealousy

You are building an excellent story here, quite excellent!!!

I have a feeling that as Spike becomes more lucid Buffy is going to see a great deal of difference between the two vampires with souls. I think that Angel will soon prove that he is more Angelus than he ever let anyone know before.

Got it in one! :-) That should be the summary to this story really.... Thanks for reading. Glad you like.

nmcil

05/12/2008 07:58 pm

Jealousy

great to have all the new chapters - very much enjoying this story - best of all with your new story, it must be very interesting to write from this very different POV from the series.

Look forward to reading it and hope that you will be able to post a new addition soon.

SanityFair

05/12/2008 03:55 pm

Jealousy

Glad he's lucid...hope he'll stay that way. Hope Joyce is there to help.

pfeifferpack

05/12/2008 03:17 pm

Jealousy

YES! Joyce needs to be there helping Buffy and Spike and I think she will. She needed time to process but will be a big help now (and help keep Angel at bay).

Poor Spike. The Scoobies should be ashamed of themselves having no compassion!

The wording of the spell makes perfect sense. Hum...so Spike has that happy clause too....could be bad but the once he has a reason he has control unlike Angel so the soul might not be necessary in time.

Kathleen

SpikesKatMac

05/22/2008 12:07 am

Soothing

I can't help but wonder if this is an elaborate plot of Angelus's to fool Buffy... he acted like he had a soul before... can't wait to see what happens next, and how Angel's jealousy manifests!

Lou

05/16/2008 12:07 am

Soothing

That was quite a scary moment. Brilliant!

nightshift

05/12/2008 08:27 pm

Soothing

It's probably soothing for Buffy to have some sort of task--helps her forget that she doesn't have a home to go to anymore. And if Angel weren't such a jealous, broody twat, he could be reaping the benefits of her needing to do something OR helping Spike and therefore keeping Buffy away from him.

SanityFair

05/12/2008 03:48 pm

Soothing

Thanks for the double updates, going off to read the next now. Find Angel's admission of he and Spike's differences very interesting.

pfeifferpack

05/12/2008 03:07 pm

Soothing

Very different vampires AND humans indeed. I am startled that the poof admitted it! Probably safer for Spike for Angel to leave actually. I wonder how "sad" Angel would have been had that suicide attempt worked!

Love tender caring Buffy.

Kathleen
Happily taking any updates you get a chance to give us.

vladt

05/22/2008 03:36 am

Nightmare

angel is even more egocentric than the scoobies. he is a more honest character as angelus. enjoying the compassionate buffy. very good read, thank you.

Lou

05/16/2008 12:04 am

Nightmare

Great job with Buffy's turmoil, she's being remarkable with tortured Spike. Angel is a puzzle.

Ann

05/10/2008 11:08 pm

Nightmare

Thank you so much for double chapters! And I really want to know more about why Spike attacked Angel, allegedly. Can't wait to read more, with Spike waking up with Buffy nearby holding his hand. I understand the need to be realistic with the Bangel stuff, but I'm glad she isn't so blinded by pure happiness at having her boyfriend back and separating him from Angelus, and actually feeling angry with Angel for stuff like leaving Spike alone with a window!
Please update soon! Great story!

pfeifferpack

05/10/2008 10:58 pm

Nightmare

Poor Spike. I remember Angel's (the souled one) and his dreams...he used to dream of the hunt and kill and enjoying it....how different to dream of hating that.

Excellent story and chapter. Love compassionate Buffy. Note that Angel has no compassion or seeming guilt for Spike having been the vampire he was.

Kathleen

nightshift

05/10/2008 09:19 pm

Nightmare

Somehow, I don't think Angel is going to like this. Never mind that he should've been the one in there comforting his family member instead of shutting him in a room with access to sunlight and hoping he'd either accidentally or on purpose immolate himself.

NeomeBuffy

05/10/2008 08:37 pm

Nightmare

I really like this story, I feel like it's going to take a lot of skill in writing to make the transition from a Angel/Buffy story to a Spuffy story but I get the inklings of how it could be feasible already. The story is well written, interesting, and you leave me wondering what's going to happen next. :) good writing and I look forward to more!

SanityFair

05/10/2008 05:02 pm

Nightmare

I'm so sorry for Spike in so much pain. Glad Buffy is firm in her resolve to take care of him. Have a great weekend! Thanks for the double updates!

Lou

05/15/2008 11:47 pm

Surprise

Buffy's got a lot on her plate, but she handled the Scoobies well.

pfeifferpack

05/10/2008 10:51 pm

Surprise

So glad she sees the horror or it even if Giles and company cannot. Great character development. Hope she and Joyce bury the hatchett as I think Joyce could help with Spike a lot while the rest (except mabe Willow) won't care to.

Kathleen

nightshift

05/10/2008 09:15 pm

Surprise

So upset she forgot clothes and toiletries--it HAS been a rough night. I'm glad she saw Giles, though, so he didn't spend the summer looking for her. Giles' response about Spike is such an early season Gilesean response. More about the research and his slayer's safety than about the pain Spike must be enduring.

SanityFair

05/10/2008 04:56 pm

Surprise

Wonderful chapter, loved how she was so forthright with them. Goes off to read the next!

dawnofme

05/29/2008 07:07 am

Compassion

I love this twist. Can't wait to read on and see what happens next.

vladt

05/17/2008 09:01 pm

Compassion

i'll repeat , angel was always class act. right! buffy should be starting to question her great love soon. very good read, thank you.

Lou

05/15/2008 11:30 pm

Compassion

What a twist! I love that we're seeing Spike ensouled so early and how Buffy will see Angel without the guilt of having killed him. Angel seems to have mixed feelings. Excellent chapter.

nightshift

05/10/2008 01:18 am

Compassion

Put him out of his misery? Well obviously only Angel deserves a chance at redemption. Makes me wonder if Buffy hadn't been there if he would have slunk out and left Spike to suffer or if he would have staked him. I often wonder whose soul was stuffed into Angel, anyways. I get the impression that his own wouldn't have made much of a difference. This chapter certainly lives up to its name (Buffy has it, Spike has it within the limits of a devastating addition just a very short time ago, and Angel not so much).

05/10/2008 12:02 am

Compassion

I've just read the first two chapters and I'm hooked! Great descriptions - I can feel the emotions coming right of the screen.
More as soon as you can, please!

nmcil

05/09/2008 11:34 pm

Compassion

Oh - this is really an interesting idea - great start, having both Angel/Angelus-William/Spike ensouled at the same time and location is a wonderful idea. And I like how you have put Buffy, as well, in a new mind set too. I sure hope that you will be able to bring us new chapters on a regular basis - this sshould be a really exciting story.

There may be a few delays but never more than a couple of days, I promise. This fic seems to have taken over my revision time. Oops :-)

Ann

05/09/2008 10:38 pm

Compassion

Great update. Really interested to see how you show Spike with a new soul, especially at this point- evil but wanting to save the world. Also, just that hint that his game face can come forward without his decision to do it could open up a couple of interesting situations!
Looking forward to more-- great chapter and well-written characters.

Thank you muchly! Glad you enjoyed.

All4Spike

05/09/2008 10:37 pm

Compassion

I don't think I've seen any other fics with this premise, so I'll be fascinated to see where you take us. Something tells me that with two souled vampires to compare Buffy will very quickly begin to see the difference.

But of course... :-) That's the greatness about this situation. As you may already be able to guess, the Bangel is going to be pretty minimal once she starts to see the differences. Thanks for reading!

SanityFair

05/09/2008 08:59 pm

Compassion

Excellent update and I have to say, a very surprising turn of events. Looking forward to your next update.

Jordy

05/09/2008 08:25 pm

Compassion

It's an interesting idea and I'm very curious to see where you're taking it. Can't wait for the next chapter.

pfeifferpack

05/09/2008 07:33 pm

Compassion

Typical Angel to solve his problems with a stake (or fire if it's female). Bloody bastard. Hope Buffy REALLY thinks about that.

Typical Spike offering comfort even in his own pain. Hope she thinks on THAT too.

Going to be great comparin them side by side. Excellent!!!

Kathleen

Definitely going to be a lot of thinking to do with two very different vampires in a similar situation. Thanks for reading!

Joyce

09/30/2009 02:55 am

Broken

Great start! Very curious to see what happens. More please?

dawnofme

05/29/2008 03:29 am

Broken

I love the start! Got me hooked right off the bat. : )

SpikesKatMac

05/21/2008 11:59 pm

Broken

Oh, I like this!! I even managed to make it through the Bangel without too much dry-heaving; a testament to your skill as an author, I'm sure!!! Cant' wait to read more!!

05/17/2008 08:54 pm

Broken

angel was just going to walk away. he always was a class act. very good beginning.

Lou

05/15/2008 11:08 pm

Broken

Great start!

dramionelurver

05/09/2008 08:25 am

Broken

*gapes* more?

oh, this sounds sooooo good!!! i just finished re-watching season 2 and have been dying for a good twist! love it! cant wait for more!

~liz

NeomeBuffy

05/09/2008 07:14 am

Broken

Wow, there are so many places this could go. What a fascinating AU concept. I'll be keeping an eye out for more.

nightshift

05/08/2008 04:50 pm

Broken

Well, that's an interesting start--the Chinese curse sort of interesting. Way to go, Angel, with the "we should just go". Loser--can't stake Dru, but could care less about Spike. I can't see Buffy just walking away, though. Looking forward to more.

Oh, Angel's going to get worse, I promise. :-) Of course Buffy won't walk away. She's actually got a heart. Thanks for reading!

Carol

05/08/2008 03:20 am

Broken

More please - it's really good.

Tanit

05/08/2008 02:59 am

Broken

Ohohoh! Please update soon...! What's wrong with Spike?? What did Dru do to him?? Ack, I'm beside myself here - in a very good way!

Fantastic start, and if you couldn't tell (cause I was subtle and stuff), I'm anxious for an update. :D

2nd Wind

05/08/2008 12:05 am

Broken

man that was a good chapter *phew* kinda glad that she didn't kill Angel this time. But poor Spike T-T
Can't wait for the update :)

Ann

05/07/2008 11:58 pm

Broken

I hope we get to see more detail about Spike breaking, and what Buffy might be thinking of it. Not so sure about the gang's reaction to Spike and hope, with Angel there to get some frustration out on, they might be slightly fairer to him, especially with all he's about to go through. And that part where Angel realizes what's happening and suggests they go, just leave Spike in agony he should know from when he first got his soul!... and didn't give Buffy any more information was so Angel--and I'm not talking angel-bashing, but the real, self-righteous, "mature" decision-maker Angel from canon. Man, I hope he's there to see Buffy fall for Spike!
A great start and I'm looking forward to more! Wonder what Joyce might think of newly-souled Spike? This story already has me excited to see how you handle the next part! Please write more soon!

Wow, major reviewage! Thank you.I don't even know where to begin... I'm not sure I can fulfill all these things, but you can bet there's going to be a lot of what you've guessed. It's going to be an interesting change process for all involved.

Avalon

05/07/2008 10:47 pm

Broken

Gawd, what a great start, I'm already hooked!!!! So glad the not-procastrinating thing didn't go as planned ;) At least for me it's a good thing.

pfeifferpack

05/07/2008 10:02 pm

Broken

Duh also meant to say that maybe Buffy will have another souled vamp to compare Angel and not buy into the crap about him being two different beings (and no memory of Angelus' actions...*snort*). If she gets to see him as he really is then bring on the Bangel LOL....its in a good cause.

Kathleen

The Bangel is definitely not going to be with the rainbows and puppies... because of course, there must be Spuffy at the end of the day. But yep, it's going to be an interesting comparison between the two vampires... Good to see you on board! Thanks for reading!