Holiday Memories

(Part 1 - Things Go Wonky)

AN: LoL, I had such a time trying to think of something nice and holiday-ish. It kept getting all fluffy instead of smutty. Apparently I had a baby plotbunny… LoL. Thanks to Jessica and Tami for their lovely and greatly appreciated betaing.


Buffy was doing her usual patrol thing, keeping up with the motions of being the slayer as she tried to get over the absence of Riley. Really, when she thought about it, it was best that he left after everything she found out about him. The biting. So gross. She had been bitten a few times and never found it that great. Yeah. He was the weird one, she told herself.

She paused and looked across the row of tombstones towards the familiar crypt. She wouldn’t have found out about what basically amounted to her boyfriend cheating on her and lying to her if it hadn’t been for a very unlikely friend.

She sighed.

Well, she probably would have found out eventually, but maybe not before something bad happened such as finding Riley dead or worse... She thought she might have eventually seen the marks, but really... how had he kept them from her so far even when they had sex? It was probably helped by his whole thing with keeping the lights out and being such a prude about nudity.

She still wondered why Spike had even told her; especially after what she said to him that night behind the Bronze... even if he immediately did come to sit by her while she cried over her mother. That had confused her, too.

She shoved the confusing thoughts aside and looked towards the crypt again. Should she go thank him? Something? Go try to make some sort of nice with him? Really, so far it seemed to be better to have him on their side rather than working against them or getting in the way.

Didn’t mean she had to be best buddies with him, she told herself with a slight pout as she trudged towards his crypt. She shoved the door open without knocking, not thinking anything of it like usual.

The sight before her made her rethink that policy, though.

Spike was in the middle of his crypt, clearly drunk again, but that wasn’t what was horrifying her. He was currently wearing women’s clothes -hey, wasn’t that her missing blue sweater and wraparound skirt?- and a blonde wig that looked eerily a lot like her own hair. He was in mid-tirade, waving around a bottle as he spoke to the empty air in front of him, clearly too drunk and caught up in his drunken rant to have noticed that she was there.

“I’m the Slayer. I’m just so bloody perfect with my perfect hair an’ my perfect breasts an’ my perfect ass,” he said in a falsetto voice. “I’m better than everyone else an’ I don’ do anythin’ wrong.” He wiggled his butt. “I only screw vampires with soddin’ souuuuls. I tried t’ pretend t’ be normal with a soldier boy, but even he liked the feel of cold flesh more than my uptight ass.”

Her eyes got a bit wider as she listened to him, lump forming in her throat. She couldn’t believe she had come to make nice to him. She narrowed her eyes, hoping that indignation would keep the tears at bay. At least until she got to the privacy of her room. She couldn’t help a small sniffle as she turned to try to beat a retreat, stumbling over a rock in her haste.

Spike heard the sniffle and the scuffling of her tripping as she went, finally realizing he wasn’t alone anymore. He swung around and looked towards the door guiltily, spotting the retreating back of the slayer he had been mocking. He quickly dashed after her.

“Buffy!”

She didn’t look at him and he hurried to catch up, unaware that someone might spot him still in her clothes and the wig. He jogged ahead of her and turned to face her, walking backwards.

“Buffy, I’m sorry... didn’ think you would...” He shook his head. “I’m a right git... a right drunken git... didn’ mean any of that.” He held out his hands. “Just stop, slayer!”

She frowned up at him for a moment and looked like she was going to speak.

*****

Spike sat up some time later, stirring when he sensed the coming dawn. He put a hand to his aching head, knocking the wig off. Damn. What hit him? He stood up, bracing himself on a tombstone and trying to remember what had happened.

He groaned.

The slayer had caught him mocking her while he was drunk and when he apologized she had socked him in the nose. In his state he had fallen over and passed out on the cold ground.

“Could’ve at least dragged me back t’ my crypt or stole back her clothes so no one saw me layin’ on the ground in ladies’ knickers,” he grumbled as he headed back to his crypt dejectedly. “Reputation’s bad enough as it is.”

He closed the door behind him and started peeling off the clothes, wondering what had possessed him to do such an outrageous thing. The alcohol had, obviously. He tossed the clothes aside and slumped into the armchair, pounding head in his hands. The look on the slayer’s face, though... He needed to make it up to her. Even if she was a right bitch, she shouldn’t have seen that and it had obviously hurt her.

Well, he couldn’t do much now. Sun was up and he still needed to rest a bit more sleep before he was back to his usual chipper self. So he slunk off to the lower levels, racking his foggy brain for something to do for the slayer.

*****

Buffy went on patrol again, even after trying to beg off to Giles with the excuse that she wasn’t feeling well. She didn’t want to chance running into Spike again, but hopefully he would be too embarrassed to put in an appearance.

One could hope... but for some reason that bleached menace seemed to rarely get embarrassed easily. Probably the no soul thing, she told herself with a shrug as if that explained everything.

She felt the beginnings of the tingle seconds before she heard him shout, “Slayer!”

Her shoulders slumped in defeat for a second then she tried to quicken her pace, not paying him any attention. You would have thought knocking him out cold had sent the message that she didn’t want to talk to him.

“Oi! Stop!” He ran to catch up, stepping in front of her. “I didn’ mean for you t’ see that. Please, Buffy. I was piss drunk an’... just please don’ hit me again an’ don’ cry. Please.”

“I didn’t cry...” she looked away, fidgeting with the hem of her shirt. She looked back towards him and started, “Look, can we just forget-“

There was a whining coming from Spike and her brows went up.

“Did you just whine at me?”

He rolled his eyes and gave her a condescending look. “No, you daft bint. It was your present.” He opened his duster and scooped out a black bundle of fur. “I felt so bad about last night that I figured I had t’ do somethin’ so you don’ cry anymore.”

He shuffled uneasily and held the puppy out, looking every bit the shy little boy.

Buffy tilted her head, wanting to continue to deny that she had been crying over what he had said or over Riley leaving her. She took one look into the big black eyes of the puppy and melted, though. How could she not? She sighed and looked up at Spike in defeat.

“You didn’t steal him, did you?” She asked tiredly, not sure what else to say to what she found to be a very odd situation.

“Her,” he corrected softly and set the puppy into the slayer’s arms. “An’ no... I saw an ad an’ took all the money I had saved up. An’ before you say it, I didn’ steal the money either, I won it in poker.”

“Oh... well then...” The tip of her tongue darted out to wet her lips nervously then she looked down at the puppy. “I’m sure Dawn’ll love you even more and hopefully mom won’t object. I’m sure she won’t when she hears it’s from you. What’s her name?”

“Anythin’ you want, pet. But she’s for you, not Nibblet.” He stuck his hands in his pockets and lifted his brows expectantly. “So you like her?”

She nodded. “Thank you...”

She chewed her lip uncomfortably, glancing around for a moment before looking down at the puppy snuggling into her arms. All fluffy, black curls and big, floppy ears. She nosed at Buffy’s arm then gave a few licks, drawing a smile to the slayer’s lips. How could someone not smile at such a sweet little thing? Her eyes went back up to Spike.

“You didn’t have to do this, you know,” she brushed her knuckles across the puppy’s back. “I punched you and left you unconscious out in the open in a skirt. Someone could have done something or you could have dusted if you didn’t get up before morning... I figured that made us sort of even in the meanie category.”

“Yeah, well... the ponce in me didn’ think it was right t’ make a girl cry... or somethin’ like that,” he looked down at his feet, feeling like the biggest poof ever. “That wanker didn’ deserve you, goin’ off an’ doin’ somethin’ like that.”

She looked even more confused than before.

“Uh, thank you, Spike...” She looked down at the puppy to avert her eyes. “I should... you know, get home... it’s cold and don’t want the puppy freezing...”

He nodded and didn’t move so she started to walk backwards before turning to go. She tried to make sense of all that as she walked home, and at the same time not wanting to look a gift horse in the mouth. He was being nice to her and while that should worry her, for the moment she would just be grateful he wasn’t making her life any harder. She had enough stuff going on to keep her stressed and if what people said about pets were true, he had just given her a present that could relieve some of that stress.

She smiled down as the puppy gave a wide yawn. Already she did feel a little at peace watching the sweet little bundle of fur. And, the little darling needed a name. She would have named the puppy Angel if it wasn’t for the other meaning that word had for her.

She got a funny look on her face as a name did come to mind and she kissed the little wet nose before jogging up the steps to the front door.

It was obvious her mom had been busy while she was out, some decorations already up and the smell of cookies in the air. She glanced towards the living room on her way to the kitchen where she assumed her mom was, stopping when she saw her mom stretching to string lights on the tree.

“Mom, you should be resting,” Buffy hurried over and took the lights from her mom with her free hand. “Dawn and I will take care of that tomorrow. Just sit and rest; you’re still healing.”

Joyce opened her mouth to object as she was ushered to the couch, but saw what was in her daughter’s arms instead. “Buffy, is that what I think it is?”

Buffy looked down and gave a guilty look. “If you’re thinking puppy, it is.” She held up her hand. “Spike gave her to me as a present. So, you know, it would be rude to refuse a gift from a friend.” She smiled, capitalizing on her mother’s fondness of the vampire.

“That was very nice of him,” Joyce smiled softly and leaned forward to see the puppy. “You said her? You’re prepared to take care of a dog, right?”

Buffy knelt so her mom could pet the puppy. “Yeah, and I’m sure it won’t take much to get Dawn to help even before she finds out who it’s from.” She smiled and set the puppy in her mom’s lap. She heard pets helped with sick people, too. “Just sit here and I’ll go get you some tea, alright?”

She snagged a couple cookies in the kitchen while she waited for the water to heat up in the microwave. Once the microwave dinged, she dropped a tea bag into the mug and carried it back to her mom. She paused in the doorway, smiling as her mother was fending off a ferocious lick-fest.

“See, Billy likes you. You can’t turn her away now, she’s like another daughter,” Buffy grinned cheekily and held out the tea. “Tomorrow morning, Dawn and I can hurry over to stock up on dog stuff. Tonight, I think it’s okay for her to sleep on my bed. She’s tiny.”

“I’ll leave some money on the counter for you then,” Joyce patted her hand after handing back the puppy. “And don’t worry; I’ll just watch an old movie on television while I enjoy my tea then head upstairs.”

“Okay, but don’t stay up too late,” Buffy waved a half-serious finger at her mother then kissed her cheek before heading upstairs with Billy.

Billy curled up immediately upon being set on one of the pillows of Buffy’s bed. She gave another wide, tongue-curling yawn before closing her eyes. Awww, how cute! The slayer shook her head with a smile and peeled off her clothes before climbing into bed. She patted the dark little head once more before she drifted off to sleep as well, putting thoughts of confusing vampires out of her head.

*****

Billy was settled between Dawn and Joyce sporting her new red collar with a full stomach when Buffy left for patrol that night. It would have to be after the New Year before they could get her into the vet for her shots and, unfortunately Joyce insisted on it, spaying the poor little girl. But, at least her mom was letting them keep Billy, and it was probably better to have it done while she was young.

Patrol was pretty quiet. Even the demons probably went to spend the holidays with family. And, the holy time made the vampires wary. It worked out good for the slayer, though. Soon she was done, having made quick work of a few fledges and one anachri demon. She figured she should make another circuit of the cemetery just to make sure.

She paused at the crypt again, biting her lip. Should she? Her feet brought her to the door before she realized it and her hand was already going for the knob. She stopped, remembering last time she had just barged in. She had learned her lesson about knocking then so her fist lifted to knock, but stopped again. Hesitating. Her teeth drew blood where they worried her lip still.

She shook her head, stepped back away from the door and turning to go. She shouldn’t. This was wrong. She had done this all before and it wouldn’t end well. Granted, he didn’t have a soul to lose, but still it wouldn’t end well. She knew it wouldn’t.

“Buffy,” Spike called softly from the door of his crypt, having sensed her and smelled the blood. When he had sensed her walk off it had hurt, but maybe she just needed him to make the first move. He hoped.

She paused and looked back at him over her shoulder. “I... patrol... is kind of quiet...” She scuffed her foot. “Mom adores B-... the puppy. So does Dawn. It was really nice of you to get her for us.”

“You. I got her for you,” he closed the crypt door behind him and walked towards her. “So you got a name for the lil’ bit of fluff then?”

She started walking again, knowing the minute she said the name he would get it. So she just shook her head and kept walking. He fell into step beside her and she avoided looking at him, knowing for sure he would be able to see straight through her like always. Why was that? She didn’t know and her mind shied away from going down that particular mental path.

“How’s Mum doin’?” He finally asked, wanting to get her to talk again. “Pet, you’re not makin’ her take care of the fluff ball are you?”

“No, I’m actually trying to get her to rest more. Last night I caught her baking cookies and trying to decorate the tree when I came back with the puppy. I mean, really.” She sighed. “She’s so stubborn, though. Won’t listen to anything you tell her.”

“How like a Summers woman.” He smirked at her, dodging to the side when she swatted at him. “It’s a good thing I got a soft spot for them.”

She stopped when he said that and her cheeks tinged pink. Then she shook her head and started walking briskly again. He meant her Mom and Dawn. That was it. They just adored him. There was absolutely nothing between her and the bleached menace. Nothing. And... well, it was going to stay like that. Forever. And ever. Yes.

She was so lost in thought it was a good thing Spike was there, putting out an arm to stop her when he sensed the demon first. He looked at her knowingly, but gratefully didn’t call her on her thoughts.

“Looks like you got lucky, pet. Looks t’ be a good spot of violence on its way,” he nodded towards the direction he sensed the demon coming from.

“Uh, yeah... what a Christmas gift... doing my job,” she said dryly as she headed in the direction he indicated.

The demon was pretty good sized and cleaning a bone of the last bits of flesh that hung to it as he walked, then tossing it aside. Buffy didn’t even want to guess what the bone might have belonged to. Instead she planted herself right in the demon’s path with her hands on her hips.

“I take it you didn’t buy that at a nice barbecue place.”

“No. I ripped it off-“

She held up a hand. “Stop. Don’t need to know. Apparently sarcasm is not something you get. It’s part of this whole banter thing I do before I slay things. You’re supposed to make some quip back.”

“Talk is borin’, luv,” Spike cut in. “Better just t’ get down t’ the action.”

“That from the man who talks more than anyone else on the planet?” She rolled her eyes and turned towards him. “I’m sure you talk to the walls of your crypt and in your sleep even.”

“Wouldn’ you like t’ know.”

“Ugh, you’re such a pig.”

“Oink oink.”

“If you two are going to flirt, can I go on my way?” The demon finally cut in.

“No! You have to stay so I can slay you!” Buffy whirled back around then frowned. “And I’m not flirting!”

“Good, cause I could use a good midnight snack. You look tasty,” the demon hissed before lunging at her.

She leapt forward and met him halfway, getting in a few punches before he tossed her aside. She kicked at his shins while she was down and started pulling herself back up. He was bending over her when Spike jumped onto his back, striking at the demon’s head as he clung tightly. The demon straightened and started struggling with Spike so Buffy turned to look for something to use as a weapon. They weren’t far from Spike’s crypt still. Maybe she could make it back there and find something.

She got up and started running back towards the crypt, yanking the door open and glancing around. Nothing was just lying out so she went over to the sarcophagus and quickly shoved the lid off so she could grab a sword from inside.

There was a loud slam that sounded through the crypt as something hit the outer wall hard. Dust fell from the ceiling and she guessed her time was up.

“I’m baaack,” she called as she left the crypt, looking for the demon.

It didn’t disappoint, coming around the corner of the crypt to lunge at her again. This time she was prepared, dodging and twirling to avoid the swipes of its meaty hands. She slashed with the sword as she could, kicking him away when he dodged a swing of the blade. It lunged one last time and she positioned herself right to run the blade straight through the chest.

“See, that’s why you have to be careful what you snack on before you go to bed,” Buffy quipped as the demon fell over.

She brushed off her hands and stepped over the carcass, starting to walk away from the crypt. Patrol was over as far as she was concerned and she needed to get back to make sure her mom went to bed and got her rest. She got halfway across the row, though, before she wondered why Spike wasn’t tagging along behind her annoying her with his usual incessant chattering.

“Spike?” she paused and turned back around as she called out softly. “Where’d you go?”

She frowned, remembering the crash that had shook the crypt just before she had come out with the sword. Hugging herself, she glanced towards the gates of the cemetery, wondering if she should just head home. He really wasn’t her problem. If something happened to him it would be one less vampire, right? She was the slayer. She should have got rid of him a long time ago and she still wasn’t sure why she hadn’t.

But, she knew she couldn’t be that cold hearted, no matter what most people thought about her. Especially not after the weirdness with the puppy and him giving her such a sweet gift because he actually felt bad about making her cry.

Oh good grief. It wasn’t a good thing when the slayer got soft over a vampire, but here she was going back to make sure Spike wasn’t a pile of dust on the ground or lying unconscious where he could get caught in the sunlight when dawn came.

“Spike,” she called again, poking her head around the side of the crypt where the demon had come from as well as the crash.

She would forever deny the feeling of relief that came over her to actually see something more than dust on the ground. Instead was the crumpled, black clad form with the bleached hair barely recognizable through a mess of blood and hopefully only blood.

“Oh Spike...” She sighed with genuine sadness as she knelt beside him and rolled him over to check out the extent of his injuries. Her bottom lip poked out as she looked over the bruises and cuts on his face. At least he healed quickly. And yes, it was only blood, thank god. She ran her fingers lightly over the unmarred cheekbone. “Wakey wakey, Sleeping Beauty.”

He didn’t wake and she was pretty sure the faerie tale kiss wasn’t going to work. Even if she was willing to touch Spike lips. Cause... she wasn’t. The last time had been because of the spell and that had been nightmare inducing. Yes... many nights of dreams with his lips. Nightmares, yes... She shook her head of those thoughts and started trying to pick him up awkwardly to take him back into his crypt.

Her arms were finally under him when he gave a small groan, shifting as he woke up and she started to pull back. Dark lashes fluttered then blue eyes were fixed on her before she could get away and she readied herself for one of his usual pervy comments.

“Do you perhaps know what exactly happened to me and where I am?” He asked in a strange, Giles-ish voice. He started to sit up and put his hand to his throbbing temple, then looking at her as she pulled away. “In fact, since you seem to be acquainted with me in a way that allows you to be forward enough to have your arms about me, could you tell me who I am?”

Buffy stared at him in shock then borrowed from Giles and Spike both, “Oh bloody hell...”


tbc...

(Part 2 - A Helping Hand)

AN: Thanks to Jessica and Tami for their betaing, and thanks to all of you that review. It makes my day. I do my own snoopy dance, hehe ^.^


Buffy stood up and took a couple steps back from Spike, watching him warily. This had to be some trick. Vampires didn’t get amnesia. Did they? And what was up with the Giles-wannabe voice? This just wasn’t right. What was she going to do with an amnesiac vampire on her hands??

Oh lord, does he even know he’s a vampire?

“Uh,” she swallowed and shifted as she tried to figure out how to ask what she needed to know... delicately. “What do you... remember? Um, do you know what year it is? Country?”

Spike sat back against the crypt wall and touched his temples. The confusion wore off some and some things came back to him, but his brain still felt under a heavy fog. What he remembered only confused him further.

“I am from England, but I am confused about where I might be now since you seem to talk like a yankee and dress differently than any woman I have ever seen. That and what I am wearing lead me to believe I am not in the year I last remember being in.”

He tried to stand up, but groaned at the pain from his injuries. She moved forward to help him, both awkward at the contact. She started to lead him to his crypt then decided against it and took him out of the cemetery with the intention of getting him to her house, hoping her mom and sister had went to bed already. There was only one person she knew to ask at the moment about if vampires could really get amnesia and make sure this wasn’t some trick by Spike to use her for some amusement.

“That confirms my suspicions,” he commented mildly as she walked down a row of tombstones. “The dates on these tombstones... most of them were born much after the last year I remember.”

“I’ll... well... I’ll try to fill you in about whom you are once we get to my house. I promise. I just need to talk to a friend of mine who might be able to help get you back to normal... well, as normal as you were to begin with.” She shook her head.

He gave the woman a sidelong glance at the last comment, but continued walking. It confused him. She... well, he had assumed she might be close to him since when he had awoken it had been in her arms. Surely, she wouldn’t have been so forward with just anyone. She... well actually, she did look like what his idea would have been of a “working woman”, but that was his time. He was willing to allow that things were different in this time, since she did not act like that sort. But, she did seem to know him and was concerned for him. She was showing more concern for him than anyone ever had besides his mother. He was pretty sure they had to be close.

“Home sweet home,” she finally said and helped him up the steps to the front door. “The lights are off, so we must have gotten lucky and my mom and Dawn are off to bed.”

“I assume Dawn is your sister?”

“Yes. My younger sister.”

“Your father?” He lifted a curious brow as she got him to the couch and he settled back on it, shifting to find a position that was comfortable with his injuries. “Where is he?”

She looked uncomfortable for a moment. “My parents separated and he lives in another city.”

“Oh, I live without my father as well, but I do not have a younger sibling.” He watched her carefully. “You have yet to tell me your name, miss. I would like to know what to call you and who to thank for taking care of me.”

“Buffy,” she paused on her way to the kitchen and looked back at him, watching him just a carefully. “I’m Buffy. I just... well, we can discuss who I am and who you are after I call my friends.”

She gave him an uneasy smile then continued to the kitchen to call Giles. If this was Spike playing a game, why would he tell her something that for him would be so personal? It has had been like pulling teeth to get him to tell her about his past besides the bragging about doing in the other two slayers.

*****

Xander and Anya were the last to arrive, looking none too pleased to be pulled from bed at that time of night. Buffy passed them on the way to the couch with a cup of tea for Giles. She had left Spike in the kitchen enjoying his own cup, wanting to break the news to her friends without them jumping to annoying questions about why she let Spike in her house.

“Okay, you said there was a problem you needed help with?” Giles blew on his tea.

“Uh yes...” she paced a bit then turned back to face her friends. “Patrol tonight was pretty quiet again, but when I started to leave this big demon showed up. I don’t know what type, but it was really big. Spike saved me and held it off while I ran into his crypt for a sword... I came back out and did my slaying thing, but Spike took quite a beating.”

“Failing to see the problem here,” Xander cut him.

And so it begins... Buffy thought with a sigh and gave him an irritated look for a second, “The demon gave it to him good and I found him unconscious, broke and bloodied. When I got him conscious again he claimed not to know who he was... though now he acts like... well, Giles. He doesn’t talk like Spike anymore and he only remembers living in England, back when I assume he was still human... because he’s given me no indication he knows anything beyond that.”

“Yet again, still seeing this as a good thing.”

“Hey, this happened as a result of him helping me. It’s only fair I try to help him.”

“I can’t believe you called us all here in the middle of the night, claiming there was an emergency when someone did us a favour and knocked the stupid out of that soulless creature.” Xander got up, shaking his head and walking towards the door. “Look, Buff, if you’ve suddenly got a soft spot to do some charity for Christmas, then fine, but leave me out of it.”

Anya pursed her lips for a second, but got up and followed Xander, giving Buffy a slightly apologetic look. Giles got up as well after setting his half full cup on the coffee table.

“I have to agree with Xander,” he cleaned his glasses and avoided looking at Buffy. “This is hardly cause for any concern of ours. We have more pressing issues such as our problems with Glory. Spike thinking he is a human again could be a good thing. Especially, since you say he is acting like me, I take it as a great improvement for him.”

“Giles, you of all people should see how wrong this is!” She wanted to stomp her foot petulantly at their behaviour.

“Sorry,” he stepped around her and headed to the door. “He is your problem.”

“You are both so getting poop in your stockings!” She slammed the door and turned back to the two witches. “Well, you two will at least help, won’t you?”

Willow sighed and looked away, clearly torn. Beside her, Tara nudged her gently and sent her a look, clearly trying to get her to offer some help. After a few moments of silent exchange, the redhead finally looked back at Buffy.

“I guess we can try to look up memory charms and see if they have anything for restoring memories...” Willow lifted a shoulder and stood up. “It’s all I can offer.”

“I’m not even totally sure if he’s really amnesiac.” Her shoulders slumped as she followed her friends across the room back to the door. “I mean, you know Spike. He may have the chip to keep him from attacking humans, but that doesn’t mean he doesn’t still like messing with them... especially me.”

“I am certainly starting to think it was a good thing I forgot what has happened to me,” came a sullen voice from the doorway to the kitchen.

The three girls spun around guiltily. They shifted uncomfortably, looking anywhere but at Spike.

“I’m sorry. I didn’t want you to hear any of what they said,” Buffy put a hand to her head, feeling an intense migraine coming on. She turned back to her friends. “I’ll handle this... obviously. I’m just confused by the whole situation... but that seems to always happen where Spike’s concerned.”

“I’ll search every book I have,” Willow assured her then turned to go.

Tara paused by the door then turned back to Buffy. “If it helps, he is t-telling the truth. I-I see it in his aura.” She gave a shy smile then followed after Willow with a little wave.

Buffy lifted her hand to return the wave slowly, staring forward dumbfounded. So Spike really did think he was some English guy from over a century ago and still human? It hit her again, finally sinking in without the cushioning of thinking he may be lying to her. She closed the door and turned around to stare at him as if he were some exotic animal on display. She opened her mouth, but nothing came out immediately.

She was saved from having to think of anything to say when feet charged down the stairs as a lanky brunette flung herself into the room. Dawn looked between her sister and Spike, then pointed at the vampire and turned to Buffy.

“He... he really has amnesia or something?” she demanded. “What did you do to him?”

“Apparently you only caught the tail end of the conversation because I didn’t do anything to him,” Buffy glared at her. “He got beat up by a demon. And, why do you assume I did it, huh? Shouldn’t you be in bed??”

“Like anyone could sleep with your voice screeching through the house.”

“You are such a brat!”

“You’re a bi-“

“Enough! Both of you!” Joyce stood on the stairs with her hands on her hips, looking sternly at both daughters. “Dawn, get back to bed. I will handle this.”

Dawn nodded and shot one more nasty look in Buffy’s direction before heading up the stairs, pausing to give Joyce a peck on the cheek. Joyce came down the rest of the stairs and motioned Spike over to them. He started to limp over wincing and Buffy quickly went over to support him.

“Oh my, what happened to him?” Joyce asked.

“Demon. He... also seems to have lost most of his memories.” Buffy sighed. “And the others don’t care, of course. But at least Willow and Tara are willing to look for anything helpful in their books.”

“Well, until then it is only right for him to stay with us,” Joyce smiled and turned back towards the stairs. Buffy began to open her mouth, but Joyce continued with her motherly eyes in the back of the head, “Don’t argue, Buffy. It’s Christmas and we can’t rightly leave him out there on his own in this condition. And, I was thinking of inviting him over anyway. Now I get to deliver the invitation in person.” She looked back and smiled at them both before disappearing into the upstairs hall.

The slayer looked at the vampire in question and sighed. She set him on the couch again and went upstairs to the hall closet to get some pillows and blankets for the cot in the basement. While upstairs, she heard a whining coming from her room so with a softening of her face she went in there to scoop up Billy. She pressed a kiss to the downy little head and headed back downstairs, crooking a finger at Spike to follow her as she continued to the basement.

“There’s a cot down here that I’ll make up all cozy. I’ll explain in a minute why the couch is no-go and it’ll also explain why the others aren’t your biggest fans,” she told him and went to dump the things on the cot except for Billy. She jogged back to help Spike down the stairs. “I’m sure after a good rest and something to eat, you’ll heal quickly. Your body, at least... the memory thing could be tricky.”

That was something for tomorrow; she needed to go to the butchers to get some blood for Spike. Also, she should go back to his crypt to get him some clothes and whatever else he might need.

“You mother and sister seem to be fond of me,” he observed as he eased down onto the bottom of the steps. He held out his arms to accept the puppy to free up her arms while she made up the cot. He watched her quietly for a few moments, stroking the puppy before speaking again. He needed to break the silence, “What sort of dog is this?”

She turned back around. “Well, you didn’t tell me when you gave her to me, but by the looks of her I guessed she was a cocker spaniel. Her name is Billy.”

She ducked her head and continued making up the cot, avoiding his gaze as she wondered if this version of Spike would get it. His silence could have gone either way and when she was finished with the cot, she sat down on it and hazarded a glance in his direction.

“I gave you this puppy and you named it after me.” He said softly and lifted his eyes to her slowly. “I really am getting quite confused about... us.”

That makes two of us, she thought dryly. Out loud, “It’s complicated. It... Well, part of it has to do with why the others don’t like you and you can’t sleep upstairs and why I grudgingly agree with my mom that you can’t be left to your own while like this...”

“They called me a creature,” his voice was even softer, afraid of what she was about to tell him. “An evil, soulless creature.”

“I can tell you everything I know about you. There’ll be a big chunk missing where I wasn’t around, but I know a friend or two who may be able to fill you in if this amnesia lasts a long time.” She chewed her lip. “It won’t be pleasant for you, though, as you can tell already.”

“I know.” He got up and moved over to sit beside her on the cot, setting the now sleeping Billy on the pillow. “I know it will be unpleasant to hear about myself through the mouth of another. It is always hard to hear about oneself through the mouths of others, but no matter what I want you to be truthful with me. Please. There can be no lying to spare my feelings. I must know everything you can tell me.”

“Spike... if that’s what you want...” she sighed and looked down at her hands as she tried to put her thoughts into words. “Man, you are so quiet, unlike usual. I usually can’t shut you up and now you hardly talk, and the silence is going to make me go bonkers... and ramble to fill it up, of course. Cause, when I get nervous I ramble, and you not talking and this whole situation are making me so nervous... I just-”

His hand slipped over hers, silencing her. “If you could try to call me William, it would make me feel better. I do not remember being this Spike person.”

“Okay, William.” She smiled faintly. How was this the same man??

“Yes, I am the quiet sort. I am a bit shy, really. You are the first woman to show me kindness besides my mother. Well, and now your mother, I suppose. Actually, most of the men treat me little better. I find it hard to stand up for myself.” He reached up out of habit to adjust his glasses, pausing when he remembered they were no longer there.

She blushed and looked away again. This just couldn’t be Spike. How did he go from this man to the pain in the ass she was familiar with? It was just so wrong somehow.

“You’re not making it any easier for me to tell you all the bad stuff... being so sweet like that.”

“You would rather I be rude with you?”

“Not really,” she rolled her eyes. Okay, that cheekiness was a bit closer to her Spike. Wait. Not her Spike. Where had that come from?? “Just, are you really sure you want to hear it all? I mean, can you handle it?”

“Yes. Please. I want you to tell me everything.” He squeezed her hand reassuringly.

“Oh fine, but if you regret that later then just know you insisted,” she looked down at his hand that held hers. “Okay, might as well just come out and say it. The ‘creature’ that they referred to, is you being a vampire. You’re a vampire now. A walking undead without a soul. If you stop breathing out of habit, you’ll see you don’t even need it.”

His breath did catch in a soft gasp then stopped. She couldn’t help looking up through her lashes at him curiously, fully expecting the shock she saw there. The confusion and the slight denial.

“A woman named Drusilla turned you and you traveled Europe with her and her Sire, Angel, and his Sire, Darla.” She made a slight face of disgust at the mention of the two women. “From what I know, you traveled Europe and the world going on er... killing sprees. Like I said, I only know from where you came into my life and so a few years ago, you arrived in Sunnydale with Drusilla. She’s loony and you wanted to cure her for some reason, and you wanted to... well, kill me.”

“Kill you?” He was struggling to process everything. “Why?”

“Cause, I’m this thing called a slayer. I slay vampires and demons. It’s my sacred duty or so my watcher keeps telling me. He was the guy that spoke a lot like you.” She waved her free hand in a dismissive gesture. “You’ve killed two others and you wanted to make me your third. You’re actually listed in the books as one of the biggest baddies in history because you’ve killed two slayers and killed so many people. You and Angel are some of the biggest bad vampires. And, the master, but I slayed him, so yeah. But, you and Angel don’t get along... you fight over Drusilla for some reason and from what you’ve hinted at, he did bad things to you. Angel used to be in Sunnydale when you first arrived and when he went bad, you helped me get rid of him.” She was trying not to ramble or talk in circles, but she feared she was starting to fail.

“Wait. Went bad? I thought you just told me he was one of the worst along with me.”

“Oh, well... he got a soul. Pissed off the wrong gypsy, I think.” She paused, trying to remember if that was it then nodded. “But, it wasn’t totally permanent because part of the curse was how he would lose it if he achieved perfect happiness.”

“And he achieved perfect happiness while he was here and became evil again?”

“Yes,” she winced. “It was my fault... but, can we please not go into that now? It’s personal and we’re talking about you.”

“Of course.” He nodded and squeezed her hand again. “So, I helped you destroy him after he became evil because I resented him and did not care for him. Is that when we started to become friends?”

“Not really.” She shook her head. “You ran off with Dru and was gone for awhile. You came back briefly after Dru dumped you, drunk as a skunk and trying to force my friend to do a love spell for you as well as getting your revenge on me since for some reason you blamed me for what should have been a blessing. Anyway... you left again after that for almost a year.”

“Oh.” He looked disappointed. “And when I came back?”

“You vowed to kill me again.”

His brows drew together, but he didn’t say anything. He had been so sure there was something between them and was disappointed to hear about this, more than hearing that he was a soulless vampire who had killed many people.

“Yeah, but then the Initiative got ahold of you. They’re these soldier, government people that deal with demons and stuff. It’s like slayers and watchers gone Rambo...” She made a face. “Well, they put this chip in your head and now you can’t hurt humans. You came to us for help and we tried to get you to tell us about the Initiative, because I didn’t know I was dating a guy who was with them. Basically, the chip is the reason you haven’t tried anything really and why I haven’t just staked you.” And the fact that I might be attracted to you has nothing to do with it... Oh, shut up, subconscious.

“A chip? What?”

“Oh... modern technology stuff. We have things called computers that are like mechanical brains or something and chips are little computer parts that do stuff. The one in your head hurts when you try to hurt humans. Kind of makes it hard for you to feed unless the person is willing, I’m sure.”

He still looked doubtful.

“Hit me.” She offered her arm.

He looked scandalized and shook his head. “I cannot do such a thing as striking a lady.”

“One, I’m hardly a lady, and two, that slayer thing comes with extra strength and really fast healing so you’re hardly going to injure me because obviously the point is for me to be able to take a whipping from baddies. So just do it so I can prove it to you.”

He swallowed and continued to look nervous, but finally held up his hand. He looked into her eyes for reassurance before finally hitting her arm, immediately shouting in pain and falling off the cot.

“Oh my!” He yelped, sitting up and putting a hand to his head. “That is quite painful. This is quite extraordinary. Will you show me one of these mechanical brains later?”

“Sure,” she knelt on the floor in front of him to help him.

She felt a bit sorry since she knew that was going to happen. It also brought them close together and they looked at each other slowly, gazes meeting and locking for a few seconds. He took a soft breath, eyes widening slightly, but she pulled back and helped him back onto the cot carefully.

“Since then, well, you have started to help us somewhat. I’m not sure why, really. You go on patrol with me sometimes, but it’s really not that big of deal. I mean, I go to the cemetery and you live there, so it’s only natural we would run into each other. And really, beating on demons and other vamps is probably the only source of fun for you with that chip.” She lifted a shoulder nonchalantly. “But, I sometimes catch you having cocoa with my mom and no matter how I warn her it’s not good to invite in vampires... so that’s why you and my mom are close. And, Dawn just likes you, probably to drive me bonkers. I also think she has a crush on you.”

His brows drew together. “Why did I give you a gift such as the puppy then? You make it seem like we do not care for each other much, especially with all the animosity in the past so why would I give you such a sweet gift?”

“Well, you did it because you felt bad about me feeling bad. I recently was dumped by that military guy I mentioned before and also, you said some mean things to me the other night... which really, as you can imagine, isn’t a new thing. But, you actually said you felt sorry this time for how bad I felt and you gave me a puppy.” She shook her head again. “I’m just as confused as you are.”

He nodded slowly. He was starting to at least figure one thing out for himself. Funny that he was the one with amnesia and the one out of his element, but he was pretty sure he was figuring out the deal with him and Buffy.

“Well, Buffy, it seems we have a very complicated relationship and I am grateful for your help during such a trying time.” He offered a shy smile and tentatively reached out to brush some hair from her eyes. “No matter what you say, to me you are a true lady.”

Her brows went up a fraction and she took in a slow breath. “Thank you, Sp- er, William.”

His smile grew and he handed Billy over to Buffy. “You should go get some rest. A lovely rose such as you does not need beauty sleep, but you probably need much relaxation during such troubling times to help put you back in the holiday mood. I promise to do my best not to be much of a problem.”

“I... I don’t think you’re a problem.” She swallowed and stood up, needing to escape. “But yeah, big night and I need sleep. I’ll get you some blood and clothes from your crypt tomorrow. I know the blood thing probably sounds icky, but hopefully once you get hungry it’ll be like second nature... or we’ll find something to help.”

She took a couple steps back then started to turn to go, but he pulled himself up shakily and she stopped to make sure he didn’t fall over.

“What? Do you need something? I can get it.”

He took a step towards her and kissed her cheek. “Sleep well, Buffy.”

“Um...” she gulped, eyes wide and resisted touching her cheek. “You, too.”

She quickly turned and fled up the stairs before the night had a chance to get any stranger.



tbc...

(Part 3 - The Simple Life)

AN: A little over halfway done! I planned 5 chapters then back to working on my usual WIPs. (So no chasing me with whips about them! LoL) Oh, and finally the smutty goodness! Yay! Thanks to Jessica and the others that helped me with this chapter.


William was carrying some laundry up the stairs when Buffy came back in the door and she rolled her eyes, following after him. He hardly looked like the same vampire anymore. He had scoffed at the clothes that she had brought of Spike’s and so she had bought him some slacks and sweaters more to his liking. He did not gel his hair back severely, and so the only thing that remained of her Spike was the blinding colour of his hair.

“You’re a guest; you’re not supposed to be doing our chores for us. That’s just wrong,” she told him for what must have been the hundredth time. She eyed the mess of curls on his head while his back was to her, putting away the towels in the hall closet. They look so soft... What? Stop thinking like that, Buffy!

“I could not just sit around all day and take advantage of your family’s kindness,” he straightened and turned back towards her. He held out a towel, knowing she would like to take a shower after patrolling. “Afterwards, I would enjoy your company downstairs with some cocoa and cookies.”

“Again? Why did mom have to teach you how to make cocoa and cookies?” She teased and started to head for the bathroom. “You better be careful or I’ll get used to this treatment.”

“If... if my amnesia lasts for some time, then you should,” he said shyly, cheeks warming as he watched her move in his usual awe. “And perhaps, even if I get my memory back then I shall continue to do kind things for you.”

She paused in the doorway and looked back at him slowly. “You really shouldn’t make promises like that until you remember being yourself, you know.”

“Buffy,” he moved towards her, leaning in close. “I may not have my memories, but there are more things to a man than his memories. I am still the same man, memories or none.”

She hugged the towel tightly and shook her head, “No... You’re not.”

She ducked into the bathroom and closed the door, leaning against it and burying her face in the towel. Why couldn’t things just be simple again... like before she became a slayer and could be that vapid cheerleader again that thought the world was a safe, simple place?

*****

“Buffy?” William called softly into the bedroom, glancing warily at the window before walking towards the bed. He set the tray on the nightstand before kneeling next to the blanketed pile. “Buffy?”

A groan was his only response and the form shifted. Billy yawned and stretched in her little doggy bed then trotted over to sniff at him curiously. He fed her a piece of bacon then looked back at the bed and pulled back the edge of the blanket enough to reveal Buffy’s peaceful face. He could watch her sleep forever he was sure, but it wouldn’t be gentlemanly of him. He could easily see why he had fallen for this girl, though. She was so beautiful and so very out of his league, but that didn’t mean he wouldn’t try to gain her heart as he had Cecily’s. And, she was much kinder than Cecily anyway.

“Buffy, I brought you some breakfast,” he said softly and reached out to brush his hand over her cheek. “Please, wake up.”

One emerald eye peeked open to study him cautiously before the other one opened as well and she took a deep breath. “William, w-why did you...”

“I enjoy doing nice things for you. Now sit up and let me serve you breakfast in bed properly.”

“William...” she sighed and started to sit up, stretching so that her camisole lifted to reveal her toned tummy. She was flattered to note the way his eyes were glued to her like he had never seen a woman before. Well ‘William’ probably wasn’t used to women showing so much, but she was still flattered. “Okay, fine... but just this once and you gotta stop pampering me, okay?”

He set Billy at the foot of the bed to curl up against her master’s feet and sat on the edge. He set the tray across Buffy’s lap, smiling proudly of the meal Joyce had helped him with. Buffy fingered the rose lightly to avoid meeting his gaze. She would rather be fingering one of those soft platinum curls, and traitorous thoughts like that weren’t making it any easier to meet his eyes.

“A lovely lady like you should enjoy being pampered by the man who lo-“ He stopped, realizing what he started to say and blushing furiously. He quickly scooped up Billy and hurried for the door. “I shall take Billy outside for her morning powder break.”

*****

Dawn came outside, sitting on the porch beside William. She looked up at him with a friendly smile then reached down to pet Billy when the puppy came over to snuff at the teen’s feet.

“So, how’s life in the future so far?” she asked him.

“Very complicated,” he looked at her. “But, your family has been so kind and generous that I have enjoyed every minute so far. Perhaps, except for the blood drinking.”

He chuckled as he remembered the many failed attempts on Buffy’s part to get him to feed before eventually he had gotten hungry enough to finally drink the blood. At least once or twice had been purely because he had choked on the blood when she had touched his arm, sending him into a sputtering frenzy. He just got so flustered around her; she affected him in ways that his crush on Cecily never had.

“Yeah, it’s a miracle, Buffy’s behaving herself and not being a total bitch to you,” she rolled her eyes.

“We do not seem to have the best history from what I hear,” he gave a soft sigh. “It seems terribly unfortunate.”

Dawn eyed him slyly. “You like her.”

“Yes, I am afraid I do,” his cheeks coloured. “I am at a loss as to what to do. I try to do kind things for her, but she does not like me waiting on her hand and foot she says. I think I am just at a loss as to how people court in these times.”

She thought for a moment then took William’s hand and stood up to drag him inside with Billy bouncing after them. The teen had an idea for a quick cram session on dating in the new millennium as well as helping William with ideas on how to ‘woo’ her sister. They needed a game plan and one was quickly forming in her head. She almost didn’t want to help Buffy; her sister didn’t deserve such a sweet guy... but she loved her sister and apparently so did Spike/William, so she could put aside sour feelings for the holidays.

*****

Joyce and William were talking quietly in the kitchen when Buffy walked in the front door and they quickly separated before the slayer caught onto the fact that everyone else in the family was conspiring against her. Joyce started to head out of the kitchen just as Buffy came to stick her head in to greet them. She gave her daughter a quick peck on the cheek.

“I’m heading up to bed to read before I go off to sleep,” she told them. “You two behave.” She winked at William then left.

“Night, mom,” Buffy looked over at William and offered a small smile. “Hey. Well, I’m going to go get a shower then work on wrapping presents before bed.”

She started to turn to go, knowing he was going to offer her cocoa and cookies like usual. Part of her was trying to come up with a good way to turn him down while another part looked forward to the new routine. It was just, all the fawning over her embarrassed her somewhat, especially since he seemed to think she was some goddess among women and she could remember, unlike him, all the horrible things they had done to each other. Not to mention, she didn’t want to get attached to William only to lose him when Spike came back; to be hurt again just when she was getting over Riley leaving her, too.

“Buffy,” he called out and walked after her, catching her just as she was starting up the stairs. “Could you do me the honor of joining me back here once you are finished with your shower? The presents can wait a bit longer.”

“It’s late, William.”

He took her hand and held it, “Please. It is not as late as we usually stay up and I really quite enjoy your company. I look forward to our nights together all day long. All I want is a few stolen moments of your time.”

She swallowed hard. Damn him for being so sweet and adorable. How was she expected to turn him down when he’s looking at her all earnestly like that, huh? This was just pure evil, that’s what it was. Yeah. Evil. She pouted slightly.

“Okay okay, I’ll be back done after my shower,” she nodded and took back her hand. “But really, I can’t stay long.”

He smiled brightly and nodded before hurrying off towards the kitchen. She shook her head and went upstairs, slipping out of her clothes then into the hot shower. The scalding water felt nice and she dawdled under the spray for as long as she could, wondering if she stayed long enough he might get tired of waiting. Probably not, this was Spike... sort of... With a sigh, she got out of the shower and towel dried her hair before heading into her room to pull on a camisole and some shorts then dragging her feet all the way downstairs.

William wasn’t in the living room or the kitchen and she looked around curiously. Did he really get tired of waiting like she had hoped? Her brows went up and she glanced at the door to the basement before starting to tiptoe back towards the stairs.

The basement door flew open and William hurried after her. “Wait, Buffy, I went downstairs to change. I am sorry that I must have taken longer than I intended.”

“Crap.” She stopped and turned around to look at him, lifting a brow as she noticed the dress shirt and sports jacket that hadn’t been a part of the clothes that she had bought him. He looked nice. Really nice. Stop that, Buffy. She quirked a smile and teased, “You look like you have a hot date tonight.”

“I do,” he blushed and looked down. “Well, at least I hope I do.”

“I’m feeling a bit underdressed,” her tongue darted out to wet her lips nervously.

“I think you look wonderful no matter what you wear.” He shyly peeked up at her then motioned towards the living room. “I have a movie that Dawn said you liked a-and some popcorn and sodas so that it is like I took you to the movies. I hope that is okay. I do not have modern money to do it properly and it would not be gentlemanly to make you pay for the date.”

She smiled reassuringly. “It’s better than going out where you have to put up with rude people.”

He took her hand and eagerly led her into the living room, getting her settled on the couch with the bowl of popcorn and a soda before going over to turn on the movie. The lights went out and he settled onto the couch beside her. Her scent teased his senses and he shifted, trying to remember the things he had learned from Dawn’s teen movie-fest.

So first, he reached into the popcorn bowl, brushing her chest with his arm as he did so then innocently munching on the popcorn he snagged. Buffy got a weird look on her face, but didn’t look at him. William wouldn’t cop a feel... Nah... Afterwards, the offending arm rested between them with his hand near hers, barely touching her with his fingers. Since when was he afraid to take her hand? Something was up.

Then, about halfway through the movie he suddenly stretched and yawned, which really was even less believable when the guy is a vampire, but he was too innocent to get that. His arm snuck around her shoulders in the classic date move and she got a bit more suspicious, glancing at him out of the corner of her eyes and keeping her back stiff. Maybe that arm was just possessed. I should slay it, she thought with a mental giggle.

Towards the end of the movie, she was finally relaxing a bit and gave a small yawn, a real one, as she started to lean against him. Maybe the “moves” had been a fluke or either way, she could forgive him. He was way too sweet to get mad at for a few cheesy moves. She just wanted to know where he had learned this bad behaviour. Dawn? Mom? That’s the only other people he had been around since his amnesia. It was probably whoever had given him the nice clothes.

The movie ended and she started to sit up. William turned off the TV and turned to Buffy, reaching out to take the empty cup and then the empty bowl of popcorn. His arm brushed her chest again and before she could say anything, he hurried into the kitchen to put the dishes in the sink.

Buffy shifted, licking her lips as she tried to ignore the tingling where he had brushed against her. Maybe now would be a good time to escape upstairs. The date was over, right?

William came back into the room, unaware of her of her rebellious thoughts. He was, though, aware of a strange new smell coming from her. A smell that wreaked havoc with his senses and made his pants unbearably tight. With that reaction, it didn’t take him long to realize what the scent was. He knew enough about biology from his long days reading to know enough about animal mating habits and how the female musk affected the male strongly. After his initial flustered feelings, he was pleased that Dawn’s teachings had helped.

“Tonight was very nice, yes?” he went to sit beside her on the couch again. He shifted to find a good position which made his obvious problem a little more comfortable and a little less obvious. His brain was racing for what to do now, trying to remember what had went on in the movies. His hand slid over her knee, “I cannot wait to show you the surprise I am planning for Christmas.”

“William, what is going on?” she looked at him with a quirked brow then down at the hand on her leg. She was very much avoiding looking at his crotch, even if she knew he wouldn’t crow about it like Spike.

He thought fast, finally remembering something from one of the movies. He pointed towards the window, “Buffy! Look, I think it is a demon!”

Caught off guard, she actually lifted her head to look and that’s when he swooped in to capture her mouth. He remembered what Dawn said, to rely on instinct and use what he felt for Buffy. He also hoped Buffy would help and not turn away.

She didn’t turn away and he was elated, but still a bit uncertain. He awkwardly put his arms around her to pull her closer to him, moaning softly when her soft body brushed against his harder one. Her little hands slid under his jacket and a soft growl welled up deep in his throat, startling him. She did finally pull back after that and he looked at her worriedly.

“We should... well, not on the couch, you know,” she said, cheeks blushed and lips swollen. “And not my room, so... down in the basement?”

He smiled and nodded gratefully, standing and taking her hand to lead her eagerly to the basement. He opened the door for her and closed it behind them before hurrying down the steps after her. He stopped at the bottom and looked at her with a goofy grin, still lightheaded from the lack of blood to the upper brain and trying to figure out if he should just grab her again to continue the kiss.

She made it easier as she walked over to him, sliding the jacket off his shoulders. He started to lean in for another kiss, but she held up her hand.

“Who put you up to this?” she tilted her head curiously.

“Whatever do you mean, Buffy?”

“The lame moves and the nice outfit that I didn’t buy you. You didn’t act alone. Who was on the grassy knoll, buster?”

His brows crinkled, a bit confused by the reference, but sighed. “I expressed to your sister my desire to woo you and she helped me learn about how men and women court in your time. She showed me many movies and I learned those ‘moves’ from them. I did not realize they were lame. As for the nice date clothes, your mother helped with that.”

His cheeks were flaming brightly and he shuffled his feet, taking a couple steps back from her then going to sit on the cot.

Her brows went up. “Oh...” Her cheeks flushed and she licked her lips then quickly covered her embarrassment with a quip, “Is there anything else you all are plotting that I should know about?”

“Th-the Christmas p-present I mentioned,” he started to lift his hand to adjust the nonexistent glasses again before stopping. “They are helping me with that as well. I did not mean to plot against you. I just... I needed some help.”

“Oh, William,” she breathed and went to stand in front of him. “I’m flattered, don’t worry. I’m sorry to sound like I was accusing you of some coup. It... Thank you for all the nice things you’ve been doing for me. It was nice tonight and any woman would be lucky to have a sweet man like you.”

“I only want you, though.” He tentatively lifted his hands to slide over her hips and pull her forward until she dropped to straddle his lap. “Only you, Buffy.”

She looked into his eyes, wanting to know why. She also unsure if she wanted to chance getting close to William only to have him get his memories back and have Spike reject her. The decision flew out of her head when William got impatient with her so close, her scent teasing him. His hands buried in her hair and he kissed her again, holding her close and almost painfully tight. He leaned back against the wall as they tongues dueled, gasping when she brushed against his sensitive groin and his hips lifted of their own accord.

“Mmm,” Buffy tried to lift her head to talk as he was holding her so tight she could barely get space to talk. “Are you... are you sure you want to take this beyond kissing? You need to tell me now. I know how shy you are and I don’t want to do anything you would be uncomfortable with.”

“I am quite sure, my love,” he recaptured her mouth quickly then as an afterthought paused to say. “You will... have to show me, though, I am afraid. I do not know what I am doing... or at least, do not remember, obviously.”

She smiled softly. “No problem. I promise to go slow.”

She took his hands and moved them back to her hips, then pulled her camisole up over her head to expose her upper body to him. His eyes drank her in and his hands lifted nervously to touch her breasts. She leaned into his touch and kissed his neck, smiling as his breath hitched. Just like Spike, he breathed even though it was unnecessary. She found it so charming right then and flicked her tongue over his pulse to make him do it again.

“B-Buffy, should I-“

“Oh, yes you should remove your shirt, too.” She grinned, knowing that was not exactly what he had been about to ask.

She began unbuttoning his shirt, kissing her way down his chest as she exposed each inch. She pulled the shirt off and tossed it aside then reached down to start undoing his belt. His hand stopped her and he looked up at her with a soft smile, starting to get bolder as he lifted her back to her feet so he could begin sliding her shorts off along with her panties. He mimicked her, kissing down her thigh in the wake of the shorts. She finally gave into the urge to bury her fingers in the soft curls as he did, stepping out of the shorts as soon as they fell to the floor and kicking them away.

“You are so lovely, Buffy. Lovelier than any piece of art I have ever laid eyes upon.”

She blushed faintly and chuckled before dropping to her knees in front of him. She went back to her previous work of undoing his pants so that she could release his hard cock to her waiting hands. He was so... Her eyes went up to his face, smiling as she saw him with his lower lip caught between his teeth. She continued to watch him as her hand began to stroke him, watching his eyes darken further and grow heavy. Her other hand slipped just inside his pants to brush over his balls, bringing a little sound from his throat.

“Ohhh, my William,” she breathed with a small smile and her hand picked up its pace. “This is just the beginning and already you look ready to blow.”

“Th-th-there is m-m-more?” he stuttered with difficulty.

She chuckled before bowing her head over him to blow a soft breath over the sensitive head then flicked her tongue around the slit. His hips jerked forward, hands balling in the blankets as he watched her. Her hands briefly left his cock to pull his pants off and remove his shoes. Then, she crawled onto the cot beside him and took his hand, taking it to between her legs. She met his gaze as she showed him how to stroke her as well, giving a soft moan when he began to do it himself. Pleased with her hips moving against his hand, she bent to take his cock into her mouth.

“Buffy!” His hips jerked again.

After a few minutes, she was sure he wouldn’t last much longer so she lifted her head to smile at him. She continued to let him stroke her for a bit, moaning again as she leaned in to kiss him.

“You’re really, really sure?” she asked again as she shifted to lie back on the cot.

“Very,” he responded huskily, following after her. “I do not think I have ever wanted anything more.”

His senses were being assaulted as he covered her body with his. All his nerve endings were singing where she had touched him. He could smell her arousal again and her little moans had been such sweet music. He could watch her move forever and the look in her eyes when she looked at him assured him that she may deny it, but she surely returned his feelings. It all was building close to sensory overload and was making his demon start to make its presence known again. A sensation he had only felt before when feeding. It nearly confused him before her hand on his cock made it impossible for him to think.

“You don’t have to worry about being gentle, okay? I’m not a virgin and the whole slayer thing, yeah,” she smiled up at him encouragingly then kissed him slowly.

He nodded and returned the kiss, shifting as she guided him to her entrance and teased herself with the head. He groaned at the sensation, thinking he was going to burst into flames before the actual act. She lifted her hips and moved her hand to his hip, nodding at him as indication he should go ahead. He swallowed hard before thrusting into her, his hoarse cry mixing with hers.

“Oh my lord, oh my lord,” he repeated for a bit as he rested his face in the crook of her neck.

“I know,” she breathed with a smile and held him close as she rocked her hips against his. “Just... follow your instincts, William. It’s just natural, move your hips with mine. Yes... like that...”

She kissed all over his face, neck, and shoulders as he thrust into her. Breathy words of encouragement fell from her lips between the kisses. His thrusts picked up in pace and force as second nature took over. His demon threatened to take over as well, feeling the warm body that moved against him. The blood that rushed through her veins called to him. He thrust harder and harder.

Her head fell back as she moaned loudly, sure that soon she would fall under the waves of pleasure. The smooth column of her neck and the wildly beating pulse there was like a siren’s call to him; his eyes were riveted to it. It was like she was tempting him with it on purpose. He tried to resist, though, but as his climax neared he could no longer hold off the demon roaring in him.

“Buffy! Ohhh, Buffy!” He cried before his face shifted and he bit in her neck.

She was surprised for a second, but then her own orgasm claimed her and she screamed at the pleasure and the pain. He spilled within her as her muscles milked every drop from him, his mouth feeding at her neck simultaneously. Eventually, he got the demon under control and he licked the bite closed before sagging against her.

“William, you bit me...” she breathed in shock.

“I’m sorry, pet. I couldn’ help myself.” He apologized, rolling to the side so he didn’t crush her. His head continued to rest on her shoulder, though, and his arm curled around her possessively.

Her brows drew together at the change of accent. “That’s okay, it... it felt great.”

He finally lifted his head to leer at her with a very Spike-like look, not the kind of look she had ever seen her sweet William give her. “Bloody hell, it was amazin’!”

“W-william?”


tbc...

(Part 4 - Rock the Halls)

AN: *shakes finger with a chuckle* some of you didn’t pay attention to the banner; you forgot one stop in the progression of Spike’s evolution, hehe, and yay, only one more chapter left



“Ain’ that poncy William anymore,” Spike told her with a pleased smile. His hand skimmed over her and he started to kiss her again.

Buffy jerked away instead and got up. Her heart was hurting. Hadn’t she been afraid that just this thing would happen? That she would finally let William in just to lose him? She hugged herself and started glancing about for her clothes.

“Pet, what’s this all about?” he slid off the cot and tilted his head as he watched her. He reached out to touch her again and yet again she moved away from him. “Buffy, I’m... I’m not back t’ my old self completely if that’s what you’re worried about.”

She looked at him confused.

“I got some of my memories back, probably from drinkin’ your slayer blood,” he licked his lips as if he could still taste the delicious liquid. “But, only a bit t’ remember bein’ a vampire an’ some of that. Still don’ remember ever comin’ t’ Sunnydale or meetin’ you. Heck, you said I killed two slayers an’ I only remember the Chinese bird.”

Her eyes narrowed. “Wouldn’t that be worse than you being back to yourself? Cause Spike has calmed down since being you.”

Understanding filled his eyes and he took a couple more steps towards her. “I’m still William, if that’s what’s got you worried. I just, I remember more an’ am more comfortable in my own skin, Slayer. Not so much the shy git that I was. I still got the bloody chip, so couldn’ hurt you even if I wanted t’... which I don’.”

“I happened to like that ‘shy git’!” She shot back then her cheeks flushed at her admission. She sighed and looked away, rubbing her arm, “He was really nice and sweet.”

“Buffy,” he smiled and closed the rest of the distance, taking her gently by the arms. “You do? Oh, from the moment I woke up with you standin’ over me, I’ve-“

“No!” She cut him off angrily. “Not you, I liked William!”

There was confusing emotions swirling in his head. Hurt that she was rejecting him, but at the same time elated she was admitting some sort of feelings for him. Well, those feelings wouldn’t do him very much if she ran off, would they?

“I’m still William,” he repeated softly, a pleading note to his voice. His fingers gripped her more firmly, afraid that she would take off. “I’m still me, but with more life experience, luv. Like... comparin’ you with when you were a wee tike.”

“Spike... you’re starting to hurt me...” she said quietly seconds before his chip fired and he fell back onto the cot.

“Bloody hell!” He put his hands to his head, eyes watering. “How’s a bloke supposed t’ cause mayhem with this soddin’ thing in his head? They might as well have chopped off my bits an’ bobs!”

She was torn between comforting him as she had several nights ago and taking off back to her room, clothes or no clothes. She seriously mistrusted this version of Spike, even if what he had said made sense and if he had the chip. This was just too much to take too soon. She started taking a few steps back from him, her head swimming.

“Oh sod it!” Spike darted forward to catch her as she fainted.

He cradled her close and carried her back to the cot so that he could curl up with her. He tucked the blanket snuggly around them to keep her from getting cold from the chilly basement air and briefly considered at least putting his shirt on her. If she started to shiver he would. So he just leaned back against the wall and pulled her closer against him, gently brushing hair from her face. He hoped she wouldn’t bust out of there as soon as she woke up.

*****

She woke up snuggled against cool, firm muscle. She inhaled deeply moments before she remembered what had happened before she had passed out and her eyes flew open. Spike was watching her carefully and she watched him, deciding if it was safe to run like a hiker facing a bear. I would rather be facing the bear, she thought wryly.

“Slayer...” he began as if sensing her thoughts, which he easily could through her eyes. “I didn’ do anythin’. You fainted an’ I caught you then brought you back t’ bed.”

“I should probably go back upstairs...” she started to pull away, avoiding his gaze.

She tried to decide if she should call the others about this. Giles and Xander would probably just sneer and make nasty comments again. She wasn’t up for dealing with that, especially when she had to explain what happened and have a repeat of the “no boinking vampires” lectures. She could probably call Willow and Tara, though. Maybe in the morning would be best.

She started gathering her clothes and getting dressed, still not looking at Spike. He finally sat up and reached out to touch her arm to get her attention.

“Pet... you don’ regret tonight, do you?”

She finally looked at him after hearing the strange tone to his voice. She denied what it might be and sighed as she thought it over. After a moment, she shook her head and straightened.

“No, I don’t,” she gave a sad smile before turning to hurry upstairs.

*****

Buffy hid under the covers of her bed until the middle of the afternoon, then got a shower and headed downstairs wondering if the others had run into the new Spike yet. This could possibly be very bad. Well, he couldn’t attack them with the chip in his head, but there were other badness he could cause.

“That bloody mutt ruined my duster!” came a roar of indignation from the kitchen, answering Buffy’s question. “I think that’s more than enough reason t’ eat her.”

With a cry of horror, Buffy rushed into the kitchen to stop him as she actually thought he would eat Billy. He looked up as the slayer came rushing into the kitchen all flushed to grab the puppy from him. Before he could utter a word she decked him and he fell to the floor.

“Buffy! Just what do you think you are doing?” Her mother demanded from the other side of the island.

She looked at her mom guiltily, shifting on her feet and pointing at the vampire. “He said he was going to eat Billy.”

Spike pulled himself back up and brushed himself off. She glanced towards him again, noting he had went back to dressing all in black. He did look good like that, dark and dangerous. Buffy! He just threatened to eat your puppy! He’s a murderer! She must be going nuts or something. Battle fatigue or whatever.

“Was just blowin’ hot air, blusterin’ about the pup makin’ a chew toy of my duster,” he sighed and reached out to pat Billy’s head. The puppy licked his fingers playfully, unaware that they were fighting over her. “Wouldn’ hurt a curl on the pup’s head. An’, I can see why she’d be confused, it bein’ made out of the same stuff as her rawhide chews.”

“I think you should apologize, young lady,” Joyce told her pointedly as she handed Spike an ice pack for his cheek.

“Mom,” she gave her mom a rebellious look but her mom frowned at her, so she looked back at Spike with a sigh. She muttered, “I’m sorry.”

Joyce nodded before leaving the kitchen, pleased that things seemed peaceful again in her house. She headed upstairs to read and once again repeating her Christmas wish mentally, hoping the two of them would work things out. Her daughter needed someone like Spike and he needed her daughter.

As soon as Joyce was upstairs, Buffy swung around and hissed at Spike, “If you hadn’t given me the puppy then it wouldn’t have eaten your stupid duster. Heck, I probably wouldn’t have come to thank you and you wouldn’t have gotten the stupid knocked out of you.”

“It’s sad when you start reusin’ insults from other people,” he commented, referring to how Xander had said nearly the same thing. “An’ I can’ be held accountable for things I don’ even remember doin’!”

“Yes you can! You don’t remember murdering people either, but I’ll still hold you accountable for that, too! Cause... I’m the slayer and I can!”

“You ruddy slayers are always so full of yourselves,” he growled and made a sweep of his hand, “Must be all the shit your watchers feed you about bein’ the Chosen One.” He did the falsetto voice, just as he had that night at the crypt, “‘La-di-da, I’m so special. I think I’m bloody better than anyone else.’ Get over yourself, luv.”

Buffy swallowed, his mocking was so close to the rant he had previously blamed on drunkenness. He wasn’t drunk this time, though, and had nothing to blame it on besides he really thought that. It reopened the wound and hurt even more after the night that they had shared together. Tears welled up in her eyes and she turned to flee outside before he could see her crying again, knowing he wouldn’t be able to follow her... at least not right away with the sun still up for another hour or so.

*****

It was dark when Buffy left the dorms. At a loss as to where to go, she had come here for some friendly comforting from the kind hearted witches. They had all doted over Billy and had some of the usual comfort foods while watching some sappy holiday movie to help them all relax. As for their research on how to help Spike, it seemed moot since obviously her blood packed enough of a punch to help him. Though, right now she didn’t seem in the donating mood.

Buffy headed across campus and paused to sit by a tree, setting Billy down so she could do her business while the slayer waited. She didn’t mind taking a few breaths of fresh air and just watching the night. Maybe she would even do a small patrol before heading home to avoid returning a bit longer.

She groaned to herself as she felt the familiar tingle at the back of her neck.

“You should get the pup home before she gets hypothermia or somethin’,” Spike said softly, leaning against the tree.

She ignored him, hoping he would get the hint.

No such luck.

He sank down beside her, picking up Billy to set her in his lap. “I made a right ass of myself again, didn’ I?”

She snorted in the most unladylike fashion.

“Let me suss this out with a bit of a guess. Sayin’ somethin’ stupid like that is why I gave you this pup, yeah? You said I gave her t’ you because I said somethin’ mean t’ you an’ felt bad. I said somethin’ like that, didn’ I?” He watched her carefully.

Her bottom lip poked out slightly and she looked down at her hands. “Something like that... but last time you were able to blame it on being drunk.”

“This time I was just bein’ a right bastard t’ a girl that didn’ deserve it after takin’ care of me.” He gave a rakish smirk, “Doubt a puppy would get me out of this one, too, yeah? So what can I do for you t’ make you feel better?”

“Turn back into William?” she raised her brows, knowing that it wasn’t possible. She could try knocking him silly again... Nah, the odds were too great that she would just cure him or do something else unexpectedly.

“Sorry, pet,” he looked down at the puppy to hide the hurt in his eyes. He shoved the poncy side of him back down then finally looked at her again, “Could a bloke at least take a nice bird like you t’ dinner t’ make up for it?”

“Spike...” she looked at him with clear mistrust. “I should go do a short patrol before heading home...”

“Then fine,” he got to his feet and shifted Billy to one hand so he could help Buffy up with the other. “We’ll go get some nosh, maybe a couple sandwiches an’ chips, an’ then head over t’ the cemetery for a sort of picnic. Then you can slay any demon-shaped ants that come t’ ruin the party.”

“Okay, only because you’ll tattle to mom or Dawn and I’ll get the big speech about not being mean to Spike.” She made a face then headed towards Main Street.

He followed after her with Billy, frowning slightly at what she said, but choosing to be glad that she had given in instead. Hopefully, he would soon change her mind about spending time with him and she would get over her mistrust of his change.

*****

There were delicious smells coming through the house and Buffy went towards the kitchen in search of the source. She stopped, blinking in surprise when she saw Spike standing there with a frilly apron tied on and taking pies out of the oven. He looked up at her, lifting a brow as if daring her to laugh. Instead, she took a cookie from the cookie jar quietly.

“I sent your mum off t’ bed. She was lookin’ a bit knackered so I told her I would finish making the pies for tomorrow,” he explained as he removed the oven mitts. “She’s ill, isn’ she? I couldn’ tell what the scent comin’ from her was before when I didn’ remember how t’ use my senses properly.”

Buffy frowned. “She shouldn’t be. She... she just had a surgery to make her better...” She looked up at Spike with wide eyes.

“Uh... well... Buffy...” he flustered at the lost look in her eyes, feeling like William again for a moment. “It’s probably just left over from before, yeah? Like when you toss out some particularly nasty garbage but you still smell it afterwards.”

“Yeah, that’s it,” she nodded, desperately wanting to believe that. She shoved the troublesome thoughts aside and eyed him again, “Why are you helping? And, I still can’t even understand why you stuck around. You can handle being on your own now that you remember being a vampire. That was the reason I had wanted to keep William here.”

He stopped then looked at her slowly. “Do you want me t’ leave, Slayer?”

“I...” she pouted, resenting him for asking such a loaded question. She decided to just use the same excuse she had the night before, “My mom would be mad if I kicked you out.”

She turned to hurry from the kitchen, but he caught her and pulled her back. He used his body to press hers into the wall, pinning her in place so she couldn’t flee again.

“Is it so terrible t’ admit that you might like havin’ me around?” he demanded, head cocked. “Stop usin’ excuses an’ just come out an’ say it.”

“You’re so full of yourself,” she scoffed.

His hips thrust forward slightly to further his point and she gasped. He leered at her as he smelled the arousal starting to come off her and it in turn started to cause a swelling in his groin. He looked knowingly into her eyes before lowering his mouth to hers, not giving her a chance to try to deny it again. He purred, rubbing his body against hers. He had wanted more of her since their night together, thinking of it constantly.

“Buffy,” he pulled his mouth a hair’s breadth away from her mouth, “Just tell me, please. Tell me that you want me still.”

“Why do you need me to say it so badly? You’re like the most self-assured person I know,” she finally gave into the desire to touch him, sliding her hands around his waist. She removed the silly apron and tossed it towards the counter, not sure she wanted to make out with a man wearing one no matter how dark and dangerous he was.

“We’ll have a bit of a secret swap then, luv,” he purred into her ear then kissed her neck lightly. “I’m more like the shy, insecure William than you realize. I just don’ let on ‘cause it wouldn’ do for the Big Bad t’ be actin’ like a soddin’ poofter.”

She rolled her eyes at him. “That is such a line.”

“Oy! Is not!” He frowned at her indignantly.

His mouth captured hers again if only just to shut her up, thrusting his hips again to help distract her and lower her defenses. His tongue probed her warm mouth, tasting and dueling with her tongue then regretfully pulling away again.

“Say it, pet. Just say it.”

She glowered at him for a moment before rolling her eyes. “Fine. ‘I want you, I need you, oh baby, oh baby’,” she quoted sarcastically and arched a brow. At his scowl, she sighed, “Well I dooo...”

“I’ll take that. For now,” he kissed her hard and lifted her by the buttocks to carry her towards the basement. He could be a bit pickier when he didn’t have a raging erection about to bust open the front of his pants.

*****

Buffy came back down the stairs after putting away her Christmas presents in her room and paused as she watched Spike helping her mother clean up. Her brows drew together slightly in thought. William had helped, but that was because he had some old fashioned notion about being a gentleman and repaying them for their kindness and stuff like that. She didn’t know why Spike helped her mom. She didn’t even know why he didn’t run off the first moment he remembered being a vampire and how to take care of himself. Probably stuck around for the sex, which she didn’t disappoint, did she? Well, at least she didn’t let him bite her again. A girl had to have standards.

Spike had been acting way wonky ever since he got the chip, really. It’s like it fried his brain more than just the shots of pain it gave him when he tried to harm humans. Or maybe the shots did some permanent harm. Not that he was the most lucid of guys to begin with. Really, the chip only kept him from hurting humans, supposedly it didn’t send little messages to his pea brain telling him to shadow the slayer and help her on patrol and stuff like that. Yet, he had been and had tried to behave himself, doing nice things such as buying her a puppy when he made her cry. Then William had tried to learn how to be a modern guy for her. Now this Spike, which should be Spike at his evilest, was baking pies in a frilly apron! And, that had been real concern in his eyes when he had asked about her mom’s illness.

Maybe she was the one going wonky in the head. She shook her head and continued down the stairs, trying to force the confusing thoughts out of her head. They kept her up enough at night as it was.

“Welcome back, pet,” Spike gave her a cheeky smile as he intercepted her in the hallway, pulling her flush against him for a slow kiss. “Your mum wants us out of the house. She stuffed a load of money in my hand an’ told me t’ take you an’ lil’ sis t’ the movies.”

“Really? But I wanted t’ stay in an’ get my surprise you promised me,” she pouted.

“Look at that lip, gonna get it,” he captured her mouth in another kiss then broke apart as Dawn came down the stairs. “You’ll get the surprise when we get back. An’ anyway, we can have quality time in the back of the theatre.”

“Eww.” Dawn commented disdainfully as she passed them on the way out the door.

*****

Billy was weaving around Spike’s feet as he carried Buffy inside. He growled at the puppy, having to nearly dance to keep from falling over with his precious cargo. He finally stepped aside and looked towards Dawn.

“Will you take Billy out t’ go t’ the bathroom then take her up t’ sleep with you?” he asked, but the tone made it almost a command.

Dawn gave him a look for ordering her about, but nodded and took Billy back outside with her while muttering something about hoping they kept it down this time.

Spike chuckled and continued to the basement, shifting Buffy so he could open the door and head downstairs. She stirred from the movement and snuggled into his chest with a groan. He smiled down at her then glanced around pleased as he saw that everything had been set up while they were away. He sent a silent thanks to Joyce and made note to do something nice for her.

“Wake up, luv, Christmas isn’ over yet,” he nuzzled the slayer’s neck.

She groaned and after a bit more prodding finally opened her eyes, looking up at him through her lashes. “Can’t we just go straight to bed?”

He smirked. “An offer I would usually be glad t’ take you up on, but I have a surprise for you an’ it would be sad t’ let all your mum’s hard work go t’ waste.”

She gave a confused pout and he shifted her again so she could look about the basement. It was decorated for the holidays now with garland and poinsettias while countless candles were set around the room to fill it with a warm glow. The center was cleared out with a CD player off to the side. He reluctantly set her on her feet and nudged her in the direction of the cot where a simple emerald-coloured dress was laid out. She fingered the sheer fabric then glanced back towards him with wide eyes.

“Get changed an’ I’ll change int’ mine, then we’ll have ourselves some dancin’ before you drag me t’ bed,” he told her, coming up behind her to brush his lips over her neck.

“Okay,” she shivered in anticipation of what the kiss promised then went to the corner behind the stairs to change, wondering why she was being modest after he had seen it all before. After a few moments, she stepped back into view wearing the dress, “My mom helped you seduce me?”

“Well, I think she was thinkin’ more along the lines of a romantic evening,” Spike laughed, turning towards her as he slipped into the jacket of his navy suit. She reached out to touch the shirt, affirming that the black fabric was silk. Nice. He took that arm and jerked her forward into his embrace. “Mmm, I got a slayer all t’ myself t’ ravage; what more could a bloke wish for?”

He flicked on the music and started swaying with her. His hand stroked her back in slow circles and brought her more firmly against him.

“Well, your memories, I’m sure,” she sighed into his shoulder as she leaned her cheek against him.

“Your blood helped last time,” he reminded her.

“We can try tonight, but it might not work this time. Maybe it was a fluke or I don’t know. You never know what happens with stuff like this.”

“I’m not sure I could stop with just a nibble an’ taste this time,” he said softly, trying to broach the subject he had been thinking about. He hoped it didn’t end with her hitting him and running off.

“Huh?” She blinked at him confused. “What do you mean? You can’t turn me, if that’s what you mean...”

“No no no,” he shook his head then moved his mouth to her ear to purr, “I want t’ claim you as mine. I want t’ mark you an’ keep you as my mate, never t’ share you with another an’ t’ vow my protection t’ you.”

Her eyes got even wider and she took a step back. For a moment, he was sure she was about to turn and run like he feared. He reached out to turn off the music, knowing the dancing was over with. She watched him with her jaw slack and he just hung back, waiting for it to all sink in. He took it from her reaction that she at least knew what a claim was.

Finally, she swallowed and turned away slightly to think then went to sit on the cot before she passed out on the floor. She processed his request then went back to the troubling thoughts that had been plaguing her earlier and the last few days. Her mind flashed back over the last week then even further over the last year since Spike got the chip in his head. She studied the lines in her hands for a few more moments as she made her decision then glanced up at him slowly.

“Are you sure? You might change your mind once you get back all your memories,” she said with trembling lower lip.

“Oh, pet,” he sighed and went to kneel in front of her. “From what you told me, I know you’ve had men promise you the moon an’ let you down. But I won’, the claim isn’ somethin’ you can just divorce. It isn’ somethin’ you can just run from. An’ yes, I’m sure with every bloody fiber of my body that I want it. It’s a good thing that those other blokes shoved on; they didn’ deserve you an’ left you all t’ me, yeah? Gettin’ my memories back won’ matter. Losin’ them, I still knew that I cared for you after you told me about our past an’ when I gained back most of my memories it didn’ matter, obviously.”

“Spike...” she sighed, torn up inside and went back to those troubling observations she had made over the last week. “You promise me you won’t run off when you get your memories back?”

He smiled and nodded, pulling her close for a hard kiss to reassure her. He slid her off the cot onto his lap and gasped when he felt her wet, naked sex hitting his groin. No underwear? The little minx. He purred as he gripped her tighter.

“So, it’s a yes?” he asked, thrusting up slightly.

“Mmm, uh,” she gave a little moan then focused on his face again. “Y-yes. Claim me.”

He gave a loud whoop then tossed her back onto the cot. She was surprised it didn’t bust under her as her eyes got wide, brushing the hair out of her face and sitting up. He started stripping out of his suit and shirt, tossing them aside before bending over her again. His hand slipped between her thighs to stroke her and he captured her earlobe between his teeth.

“Lady’s choice,” he purred. “How do you want it an’ where?”

She blushed and started to shake her head.

“Oh come now, luv. If you’re goin’ t’ be my mate, then you can’ be shy about this.”

“Then maybe I should change my mind,” she teased nervously then glanced around again. Just pick something, she told herself, just get it over with so you can get to the boinking.

“The... well...” she pointed at the washing machine.

He arched a brow then picked her up to carry her over to that side of the basement. He set her bottom on the cold metal of the top, wondering how she was going to stand that. His question was answered as she made an agitated noise before flopping over onto her stomach. She wiggled her backside at him and his brows shot up, but figured why question it. He gripped her hips and thrust forward into her.

“Ooohh,” she groaned as she adjusted to his large cock.

“You just tell me when you’re ready for me t’ bite you, pet,” he told her and started rocking his hips against hers.

She nodded wordlessly, grasping at the top of the washing machine as he thrust into her. Her head fell back and she moaned as her hardened nipples brushed against the smooth material of her dress, glad that she left it on and they weren’t pushing against the cold metal of the washing machine. The friction added to her pleasure and she was moaning more and more.

His fingers pressed into the soft flesh of her hips with bruising force as he thrust harder and harder. His slayer. She felt so good, her warm sheath gripping his cock. So tight and hot. His moans grew with hers, lost in the pleasure of his soon to be mate.

“Love you,” the endearment tumbled from his lips. “Love you so much.”

She gasped, opening her eyes and glancing at him over her shoulder. She smiled softly, taking in the sight of him lost in the passion of the moment.

“I love you, too, Spike,” she replied and moaned softly as she turned back around to face the wall. “B-bite me. Now, do it!”

He looked down at her, considering the bite then gave an impatient growl as he flipped her over onto her back again. He thrust back inside her, cutting off her questions and resumed his fast, hard strokes. He shifted into game face, the demon eager to mark her.

“Pet, I want t’ make sure you remember. When I bite you, you bite me, too. You have t’ return the claim.”

She nodded, catching her bottom lip between her teeth. He bent over her, scraping his fangs along the column of her neck then her shoulder and even her sensitive nipple. She gasped, arching her back up off the washing machine. Then he struck, plunging his fangs into her throat and drinking the strong blood that poured into his mouth. He gave a sharp thrust to remind her to do the same and she bit into his shoulder, applying pressure until she broke skin.

“Mine,” he growled deeply as he lifted his bloodstained mouth.

“Mine,” she returned, looking up at him slowly.

He captured her mouth as the bond snapped into place between them, enjoying the mix of their blood on his tongue. Mates. The slayer was his mate. He grinned and thrust even harder, causing her to cry out then screech like a banshee beneath him as she came. He soon followed, tumbling with her to the ground in a boneless heap.

“Sp-spike?” she lifted her head after a moment to look down at him. “Are you... did it work?”

His eyes were closed and after a moment he opened his eyes again. The blue gaze focused on her then widened. He sat up slowly, holding her carefully and she was confused by the emotions she saw chasing themselves through his eyes.

“Buffy... what have we done?”

“We claimed each other,” she said as if he were daft then cocked her head as he helped her to her feet. “What, did you lose your memories again?”

“N-no... I’m... well, as far as I can tell, I’m me again,” he took a step back from her, bending to grab his pants.

“Then, uh, what’s wrong?” She watched him carefully, confused at his reaction.

“This was... just wrong. I shouldn’ have.” He gave her a tortured look. “I’m so sorry. I shouldn’ have.” Without further word, he took off up the stairs.


tbc...

(Part 5 - Here's Your Sign)

AN: Last chapter, woot! Now back to my usual WIPs... Thanks to everyone who reviewed or helped with this fic!




Joyce and Dawn were confused the next day, wondering where Spike was and why Buffy wouldn’t come out of her room. They had thought the two were finally getting close and had helped Spike plan his surprise for Buffy. How could it have gone wrong?

“Do you think she did something stupid to him?” Dawn asked her mom over cocoa in the kitchen. “She’s always ruining stuff.”

“Dawn,” Joyce warned with a hard look then sighed. “No, she probably didn’t. If she did she would be down here as sunny as ever, just as usual, and not locked upstairs in her room sulking.”

“I guess,” the teen agreed grudgingly. “But why would Spike ruin things?”

“I don’t know, pumpkin, but let’s hope they work it out themselves,” she patted Dawn’s hand. “We just have to be sure that if it’s meant to work out, it will.”

Dawn nodded and went to go take Billy out when the puppy started whining. They didn’t realize that even the puppy was mourning her master’s bad mood, wanting to go comfort Buffy. But damn, she couldn’t open doors for herself and those other girls didn’t understand what she was saying.

*****

Late that night after the others had all went to bed, Buffy snuck out of her room and down to the basement. She sat on the cot, looking around the morosely with puffy, red eyes. She had been crying all day and was sure she was cried out by now. Her stomach was rolling, but she had nothing to throw up as she hadn’t eaten in over a day. She knew it was because of the claim, because Spike was cutting it off. If it was making her sick, she knew he had to be suffering from it as well. Then why was he doing it?

She still didn’t have answers for any of it. Why had he run?? She sniffled as she remembered it again. He had promised he wouldn’t leave her! He had promised! If she ever saw the sorry ass again she was so going to turn his head into her personal drum.

The flash of anger was quickly gone and she glanced around the basement, still decorated for their romantic evening. Her eyes avoided the washing machine. She was sure she was never going to be able to do laundry again here. Her gaze continued to where he had left his clothes and presents, having left too quickly to even dress completely as it was.

She picked up his beloved duster and lay back on the cot, holding it to her face so she could inhale his scent. Somewhere deep in her echoed the thought, my mate. The thought, while instinctual, caused a fresh wave of tears that she had thought she was out of.

*****

Buffy picked her way through the cemetery, not really looking to encounter anything to slay that night. She hugged the duster closer around her as a slight breeze picked up and stung her nose. It ruffled her hair as well and she tossed it out of her face as she looked out across at his crypt. My mate, the thought echoed through her again and she gritted her teeth.

She turned to glance towards the front gates of the cemetery uneasily, having to screw her courage yet again before continuing towards the crypt. Stupid, stupid vampire...

She paused outside the door again, lifting her hand to knock but shaking her head. He had already sensed her and she really didn’t want to give him the chance to run from her again. He was going to face her whether he liked it or not. So, without further ado she kicked the door in with a loud crash.

“Oh good god,” she cried and stopped, staring ahead at the interior of the crypt. Why was she punished every time she busted in his door lately? This time she had a good reason, though!

Spike looked up guiltily from where he had been too preoccupied with the mannequin to realize she was there, especially with him blocking the claim. He clutched the absurd half of a human form, fearing what was going to happen as soon as she got over her shock.

“Are you drunk again?!” she demanded angrily before stomping towards him. She yanked the mannequin from his arms and looked at it, “Is this my blouse? Is this supposed to look like me?”

She shook it at him and he quaked, figuring next would be a busted nose and a black eye. Might as well own up to it and hope for leniency for the truth.

“Yes, it’s your blouse,” he licked his lips. “I knicked it from the laundry one night while I was over for cocoa an’ yeah, sort of tried t’ make it look like you. Not drunk, though.”

“At least you’re not wearing the stuff this time. Do you have anything else of mine downstairs?” She tossed it aside and headed for the opening to the lower level.

His eyes got wide as he realized she was going to find his hidden stash of Buffy things such as the photos and drawings. He lunged forward and grabbed her arm, tugging her back.

“Well... you have my duster, so... we’re even,” he sucked in his cheeks and put on his best glower.

“Yeah,” she raised a brow, “You left it when you ran out on me, along with all the clothes and your Christmas presents. Want to tell me why I find you here dancing with a mannequin if it’s not because you’re smashed?”

He let go of her arm and took a step back, glancing towards where the partial mannequin body lay. “I was pretendin’ it was you, obviously.”

She glared at him. “And that makes so much sense when you could easily have the real thing instead.”

He looked down at his feet, shifting slightly. “Is that what you came here for, t’ give me a piece of your mind an’ make sure I was miserable without you?” He lifted his gaze, a rebellious edge to it.

“If you are, it’s your own fault isn’t it?” she shot back. “And I came because I never got to give you my Christmas surprise.”

He put one hand on his hip and stuck the other one out expectantly. She rolled her eyes at him, nearly deciding to turn and leave him to his pissiness. Instead she bravely took another step towards him and started to open the duster slowly to reveal what she had hidden inside until then. It dropped to the ground and she stood before him nude except for a little red bow around her waist.

His jaw nearly hit the floor and he stood there dumbly with his hand still held out. She rolled her eyes and took another step towards him, taking the hand and putting it to her breast.

“Bloody hell, woman,” he finally muttered and brushed his thumb over the rosy peak almost reverently.

“Hurry up and unwrap me, you idiot. I’m friggin’ freezing standing in a crypt in my birthday suit obviously!” She started dancing from foot to foot to help generate some warmth. “Seriously, you wouldn’t let your mate die from frost bite would you?”

“I’d say you were already pretty much unwrapped, pet,” he leered at her. She was glad to finally see him acting himself and not like some brooding idiot. “Never washin’ my duster again.”

“Have you ever washed it to begin with?” she asked dryly.

“Hardy bloody har har...” He squeezed the breast in his hand and smirked at the gasp it wrought. “So my Christmas gift is a willin’ slayer t’ do with as I please, eh?”

Her tongue darted out to wet her lips and she nodded. This so better work.

The smirk grew into another leer and he let go of her breast. He tilted his head as he considered his present then started to prowl in a circle around her. She watched him, a little shiver going up her spine as she watched the predatory gleam in his eyes. This could potentially get out of hand. The thought scared her and turned her on all at the same time. The fear ebbed as she reminded herself that he wouldn’t hurt his mate and that’s when she held out her arm to stop him.

“On second thought, only if you do one thing for me,” she turned her head to the side to meet his dark gaze. He tilted his head questioningly and she continued, “Unblock the claim now or no deal.”

His lips tightened and for a moment she thought he was going to change his mind and turn her down. But in the next second, there were emotions and images flooding her psyche from what must be the link. She hadn’t really had a chance to experience the claim the night before in the brief moment before he had blocked her and ran. She arched a brow, suspecting he was purposefully trying to overload her with the sexual transmissions. Well, if he thought he was going to scare her off then he had another thing coming.

“Okay then,” she dropped her arm and gave him a sweet smile, a wicked challenge in her eyes, “Proceed with the ‘doing’.”

His brows lowered and he returned the challenging look. He prowled around her once more before leaving her to head for the opening to the lower level, giving a little growl as sign to follow. She rolled her eyes and followed slowly, leaping down after him and giving a surprised yelp when she was caught in mid-air. Their gazes met for a moment in the dim light coming from above, but before she could make a smart quip he was tossing her across the room onto the bed. She bounced, hair flying out around her and causing her to pause to catch her breath. She shot him a nasty look for that and he only smirked in return.

He made a show of slowly pulling his shirt up over his head and she watched in rapt anticipation. Next he undid his belt and fly, letting his cock spring free before bending to slide his jeans off and kick them away after removing his doc martins. She licked her lips again as she watched the bobbing appendage.

His eyes lifted while still bent over, catching her thoughts because of the claim. He straightened and for her benefit ran his fingers over the length then cupped himself, pumping once as he got off on watching her ogle him with obvious interest. Her arousal permeated the air and he inhaled deeply with a growl. My mate.

“You can’t do anything from all the way over there,” she said impatiently and started to sit up.

“You don’ got any patience, Slayer,” he scoffed and walked over to the alcove.

“And since when do you?” she shot back.

“Got plenty, or would’ve come t’ kill you as soon as I got int’ good ole Sunnyhell.”

“As if. You would have been dust.”

He growled at her in response and straightened, holding chains. Her eyes got wide and she looked up at him like she might bolt. Before she could, he lunged for the bed and grabbed her arm to pull her towards the alcove.

“You said I get t’ do what I want with you, so even if that means I want t’ shag you upside down then you got t’ do it,” he reminded her then paused as he actually considered that idea before shaking his head. Maybe another time.

“Well let’s hope you don’t make me regret that or you’ll be regretting it too for a very long time,” she batted her eyes in mock innocence as she sent imagery over the claim of her doing some particularly nasty things to his package.

With another low growl, he caught her around the neck and shoved her against the wall. He barely gave her a second to gasp before his mouth was on her in a bruising kiss. He nibbled and pulled at her lower lip, pressing his body into hers as more animalistic growls rumbled in his chest. My mate, the thought echoed through him again and he lifted his head to growl at her again in warning before turning back to his stash in the alcove.

He moved the chains aside then picked up a collar, turning back to her and spinning her around so he could press her into the wall with his hips while he put the collar on her neck. He made sure it was somewhat loose so it wouldn’t harm her before grabbing the chains again to hook them to one of the loops on the collar. With chain in hand, he finally let her up from the wall.

“Good to know we have de-evolved back to grunting,” Buffy quipped as he dragged her back to the bed with a grunt. She gave his back a wry look, hoping this would be worth it. Here she was putting herself on the line so that he would see she really wanted him and was willing to do something like this for him, willing to do it if it meant getting her mate back. He better see it by the time this was over or she was going to have to just beat it into him or something.

Once back at the bed, he pushed her back onto it again then bent over her to loop the chain around her wrists and the bars at the head of the bed. He glanced over her with an approving purr then looked down at her face while still bent over her, his cock pointing right at her face. His hips moved forward, teasing her lips with the tip and groaning when her tongue darted out to taste him. With a flick of her tongue, she caught the pre-cum leaking out of the slit then tried to lift her head to take him into her mouth. Another time, he decided and pulled away as he was sure that if he let her continue then soon he would be prematurely shooting his load all over her pretty face.

He gave her nipple a pinch to remind her who was in charge then got into position at the end of the bed between her legs. She was squirming in anticipation, getting the silk sheets quite damp. He caught her hips to stop the squirming and bent to latch his mouth onto her throat below the collar while starting to guide his cock into her.

//You trust me, yeah?// he suddenly sent over the claim with only the head nestled inside her.

She rolled her eyes, “Do you think I would have let you get this far or even offered if I didn’t? Now get on with it!”

She struggled to move her hips impatiently, but he held them fast and clamped his teeth on her flesh. She moaned and stilled, but still gave a little whimper to express her need. His tongue stroked the bite mark and he started to slide into her finally, sure that her wet heat would melt him. How could he ever give this up? He shoved the brooding thoughts aside, not that his brain was functioning all that well as he started thrusting into her hard.

“Ohh god... yes...” she moaned, tilting her head back at an awkward angle because of the chain.

He nibbled and licked down to her bouncing breasts, capturing one in his mouth to suckle as he continued thrusting. Her moans spurred him on, his pace quickening to bring them both to their peak. The claim fueled their passion, each able to share their pleasure with the other and enhancing the experience like never before. The new feelings also brought their orgasms quickly, almost too quickly, as soon Buffy was screaming as Spike buried his fangs in her breast. He followed right after, spilling his seed inside her and giving another couple thrusts before he succumbed to the grip of her well trained muscles.

“Oh ohhhh,” she panted as she closed her eyes again. “Spike... that was... the best ever!”

“An’ hopefully next time it’ll be better without us both shootin’ off quickly like a couple of randy virgins,” he commented into her shoulder then caught what he had said. He tried to correct himself, “You know... if we do... do this again...”

She frowned. “Unchain me, Spike.”

“Pet...” he lifted his head to look at her and she pressed her lips into a thinner line, “Okay.”

She sat up once she was free and rubbed her wrists with the collar still around her neck. Her eyes lifted to shoot green fire at him through her lashes. Finally, she just gave a growl and slapped him.

“You promised!” She shouted at him angrily.

He looked at her shocked then looked away with a stony expression. “That was before I got my memories back.”

“So? That’s no fucking excuse for what you did!” She sighed and tossed out her arms, “You claimed me, you can’t just take that back. You’re mine now! Tell me why so I can tell you how stupid you are and we can make up and... and... you know, get back to the good stuff.”

He wanted to revel in her affirming so vehemently that they were mates, but he wouldn’t let himself.

“I shouldn’ have,” he shook his head and continued to avoid looking at her. He got up and stalked over to the dresser to get a cigarette, lighting it up and taking a slow drag before continuing, “It wasn’ right, doin’ it like that.”

“Like I said, you’re stupid.”

He growled and flicked the cigarette away. “No! You didn’ want me, you wanted William back. It’s true what I said about him still bein’ in here somewhere, but he’s a very small part that I work very hard t’ repress.”

“Is that it?” she said with disdain, crossing her legs. “You’re still stupid.”

“Buffy!” He took a couple steps towards the bed and held up his hands like he would like to strangle her, but she continued to look up at him unaffected and he dropped his hands. “You didn’ want me an’ that’s understandable, ‘cause I’m far from worthy of you. I don’ got a bloody soul like Angel, just a ruddy chip that won’ let me protect you from any human threats.”

“Then it’s a good thing I can handle the humans, isn’t it?” she said boredly. “Look, I don’t want Angel and I’m sure life would be very boring if you were always like William or some goody-two-shoes like that. And really, isn’t it funny that you kept complaining how I was so full of myself then you turn around and act like you’re below me? Come on, Spike, I never thought you were this stupid.”

She really didn’t like this whiny, broody version of Spike. Too close to Angel, she did a mental gag. She hoped her attempts to taunt him back to his old self would work again, like earlier.

“You’re a right bitch, you know that, Slayer?” he shot back.

She gave a lazy shrug then smirked. “You’re an ass.”

He growled, turning towards the ladder to head back upstairs. Before he got a couple steps, she was up off the bed and tackling him to the ground. They rolled around, both trying to get the upper hand and knocking things over in their wake. Finally, Buffy ended up sitting on his chest with her knees to his shoulders. He would normally enjoy the view, but he was huffing unneeded air as he glared up at her.

“Once more, I do not just want William. I want all of your annoying ass self,” she panted and reached up a hand to brush back some sweaty hair sticking to her face. The bow now hung loosely around her hips after the scuffle. “I knew what I was agreeing to when I agreed to let you claim me, okay? And anyway, like you even said, you can’t divorce the claim or run away from it, so what is the point in you even fighting it now? You want it and I want it, and you’re just being silly by running off.”

“Was not,” he argued with a pout.

“You’re so adorable when you pout,” she giggled and ran her finger along his full bottom lip. He sucked it in petulantly and she laughed. “Oh stop it. Now you’re just being a big baby.”

“Am not.”

She rolled her eyes again. “Can I go on or are you going to persist with the immature retorts?” She took his silence as acquiescence and continued, “I’m not so stupid that I didn’t eventually pick up on some stuff. Ever since you got the stupid chip you’ve been changing, behaving yourself and stuff like that. Helping and doing stuff such as getting me a puppy when I cried. Then as William you tried to change as well, becoming a modern man because you thought that would help you get me. And well, guess it worked. Then the same with the other Spike, acting like William somewhat because you thought that was what I wanted then. Always trying to change yourself to please me and trying to win me over? I may have been a little slow on the uptake, but I got it now.”

“So,” he sucked in his cheeks and arched his scarred brow, “What is it you want?”

“Duh,” she reached down to flick him in the forehead, “You to act like yourself!”

“You really are a right abusive bird,” he finally smirked.

“Oh, are you going to cry?” she stuck out her tongue.

She yelped as he flipped her over onto her back, capturing the offending tongue. His fingers skimmed over her heated flesh, murmuring endearments into her mouth. He finally sat up, pulling her into his lap.

“Are we good now?” she asked hopefully.

He nuzzled her neck. “Very good, pet.”

“I’m so not living in a crypt. Just so you know.”



La Fin.