"Intimate Enemies"

Author: Ashlee
Contact: ashlee_999@hotmail.com

1

2

Emotions

Spike slammed the door of his house long after he should have been home. Jenny sat up, pretending to read a book, and breathed a sigh of relief as she looked at her son. "You could have called," she said softly as he entered the living room.

"Sorry, Mum," he mumbled.

Jenny raised her eyes to her son and noticed his rigid stance and clenched jaw. "What happened?" she asked with empathy. "Did you and Buffy not have a good time?"

"I'm sure Buffy did," he mumbled, scuffing his shoe into the carpet.

"What does that mean?"

"It means I acted like a ponce, and she got mad. I never saw her again."

"How did she get home?" Jenny asked worriedly.

"I don't know," Spike said quietly. "I've been driving around, making sure she wasn't walking, but I never found her."

"William-"

"Mum, you don't have to say it," Spike interrupted. "I don't think before I act, I need to apologize, and I should make it up to her."

"I was actually going to say you should probably call and make sure she got home okay," Jenny replied.

"She's not answering her cell," Spike said softly. "I didn't want to try her house and get her in trouble with…"

"I'll call her house," Jenny offered. "If Hank answers, I'll just make something up."

Spike's eyes shot up to meet his mother's. "You know," he said quietly.

"Yes," Jenny replied softly. "I know."

"How?"

"I'm a mother, William. I just had to look close enough."

Spike had to smile at his mother's explanation as she picked up the phone. Spike quickly gave her the number before he began pacing the length of the living room.

"Hello, this is Jennifer Giles, may I speak to Buffy, please?"

"Oh, she can't? No, no, that's okay, don't tell her I called. Thank you."

Spike felt like he was going to explode as he waited for his mother to hang up the phone. "Well?"

"She's home, William," Jenny replied.

"But she didn't want to talk?"

"No. Whoever answered, it was a woman, said that Buffy came in and went right to bed. She didn't want to talk at all tonight. What happened, William?"

Spike clenched his jaw. "Believe me, Mum, it's better if you don't know."

"Nothing bad happened, did it?" Jenny asked worriedly.

"Not that I know of," Spike said softly as he turned and began walking up the stairs.

Wandering into his bedroom, he shut the door, having to fight every instinct he had to destroy his room. His 'Spike' side that he had established since high school wanted to throw anything he could get his hands on. His 'William' side, which Spike considered his poncey side the majority of the time, wanted to let a few tears fall that something he had said made Buffy have sex with someone. Someone that she may or may not have wanted to sleep with to begin with.

Reigning in all of his emotions, Spike took a deep breath and closed his eyes. His thoughts seemed to be flying in a million different directions. He would definitely not be getting any sleep tonight.

---

Buffy hurried toward the Sunnydale High campus, hoping that she would make it before the first bell rang. Breathing a sigh of relief when she saw students still wandering around outside the building, she slowed down.

"Buffy!"

Buffy smiled when she saw Willow jogging toward her. The smile immediately faded when she saw the worried expression on her friend's face.

"Wills, what's wrong?"

Willow didn't answer as she grabbed Buffy's arm and led her off to a more secluded area. "Buffy," she said, turning to face her friend. "There's something that's going around school…"

"Willow , talk to me," Buffy said, getting worried.

"People are saying…everyone's saying that you slept with Parker," Willow said with a slight blush beginning to color her cheeks.

Buffy sighed. She should have known this would happen. In her haste to make a stupid point to one person, she had inadvertently led the entire senior class into believing that she and Parker had sex.

"Who told you?" Buffy asked, not even sure if she wanted to know the answer.

"Well…Xander, but Parker told him."

This got Buffy's attention. Her eyes snapped up to her friend's as she stared in disbelief.

"Buffy, I didn't believe it," Willow said in a rush. "I mean, you would never…you and Parker…well he…I mean if you did, that would be okay. I am your friend after all, and if you wanted to…you know, with Parker, I would still-"

"Willow ! Calm down," Buffy said with a smile at her friend's rambling. "I didn't sleep with Parker."

"Oh good," Willow said in relief. "I mean-"

"Willow , it's okay," Buffy replied with a smile. "No Parker thoughts were going through my head. I promise, but I need to go now."

"What are you going to do?"

"Nothing much. I just need to go kill a doe-eyed pig who's been spreading lies about me," Buffy said with a sweet smile.

Buffy searched where she could before the bell rang. When the students began rushing to class, Buffy sighed. She would have to find (and torture) Parker later. Right now, she still had to get to her locker.

The halls were empty as Buffy threw her backpack into her locker. She felt a chill creep up her spine but ignored it.

"Hey, baby."

Buffy tensed at the whispered words, cringing when she felt the breath on the back of her neck. Turning around, she glared at Parker. "You bastard," she hissed in a low voice. "You've been spreading lies about me, as if I would ever sleep with you to begin with."

"Come on now, Buffy," Parker said in what was supposed to be a seductive tone as he played with the thin strap of her tank top. "You didn't feel that way the other night." Buffy shied away from him as much as she could, being backed up against a wall of lockers.

"Get a clue, Parker," Buffy said, her anger erupting as she glared at him. "You couldn't even get me to have sex with you when I was drunk."

Buffy jumped as Parker's fist impacted the locker next to her head. "Let's change things then, shall we, Buffy?" he asked in a menacing tone as he grabbed her arm.

Buffy struggled against him as he pulled her around a corner and out one of the doors. "Let me go," she cried as she tried to pull herself from his grasp as he shoved her against the wall.

"Just a little kiss, Buff," Parker said with a threatening smile.

"No," Buffy said through clenched teeth. "Now let me go!"

"I believe the lady doesn't want you here, Abrams."

Buffy had never been so thankful to hear that voice.

"Stay out of this, Giles," Parker said, turning to face Spike, who was casually walking toward the two people.

"Get away from her, Parker," Spike replied in a menacing tone.

Parker seemed to realize he would be better off backing down. "She's not even worth it," he said as he passed Spike, never seeing the knee that connected with his stomach. Spike opened the door to the school, shoving Parker's hunched figure through it before slamming it shut.

Buffy breathed a sigh of relief, leaning her head back against the hard bricks, letting her body relax.

"I hope he was worth the harassment, Summers," Spike said in a clipped tone as he pulled out a cigarette. "You better be glad I needed the smoke."

Buffy swallowed every smart remark she had for him. She was grateful that he was there, even if he was acting so smug about it. "Spike, I…thank you," Buffy said softly.

Spike looked up, meeting her eyes with his. "Well?"

"Well…what?" Buffy asked.

"Was he worth it?"

Buffy looked down at the ground, taking a deep breath to steady her nerves. She had brought this on herself. "I didn't sleep with him," she said softly.

Spike froze for a brief moment before advancing on her. Buffy felt her breathing become labored as she once again found herself against the wall. Except this time, she didn't feel threatened.

"Why?" Spike asked softly, throwing his cigarette to the ground.

"Because I just wanted to make you mad," Buffy said quietly, avoiding his eyes.

"It worked," Spike said softly as Buffy looked up at him.

"It did?"

"It made me mad," Spike replied, lightly tracing his finger over her collarbone to her shoulder and back again. "Furious actually…and annoyed…frustrated…jealous."

"Jealous?" Buffy asked, uncertainty mixing with her words.

"Insanely," he whispered, his lips getting closer to hers as her breath quickened. Spike could feel his pulse racing as their lips met.

Buffy's hands wrapped around his neck, threading through his soft hair, as she felt Spike's arms go around her waist, pulling her closer to him, his tongue gently tracing her soft lips. Buffy moaned as she opened her mouth, letting Spike's tongue slowly stroke against hers. She could feel the evidence of his arousal as he pushed her into the wall, carefully positioning his hands so the bricks wouldn't hurt her. Buffy clutched at him, her breath coming out in short gasps as they broke away. Spike breathed heavily, his forehead pressed against hers, as he stared into her eyes for a long minute.

Slowly backing away, Buffy closed her eyes and turned away as his words from the other night came back to her.

"I think this changes things, luv," Spike said softly.

"Why?" Buffy said, turning to face him. "I'm just the town slut, remember?"

Spike watched with a dismayed expression as she walked back into the school. Clenching his jaw so tight, he thought it might break, Spike threw his fist into the solid wall, feeling only mildly satisfied at the pain that flooded through his arm. He knew he deserved it.

---

Apology

Spike couldn't find Buffy the rest of the day. He only had one class with her, English, at the end of the day. She hadn't been to lunch, and he never saw her walking with her friends.

Spike looked through the crowded halls, beginning to get worried when he didn't see her at her locker.

"If that pillock did something to her, I'll…"

Spike trailed off with a sigh when he heard the bell ringing, turning to walk to his last class. He froze as he stood in the doorway. Buffy was already sitting in her seat and had, apparently, been there for a while. Spike saw Willow on one side and an empty seat on the other. He took a deep breath before heading her way.

Buffy looked up as the screeching of a chair being pulled back alerted her to someone. A backpack was tossed down next to her, and as she turned, she had to fight the groan that threatened to come out. She settled on a heavy sigh before turning and focusing her attention on the teacher.

"I've been looking for you," Spike whispered.

Buffy fought the shiver that raced up her spine as she felt his breath on her ear. She tightened her lips and continued staring straight ahead as Spike reached for her notebook and pen. Opening it up to a blank page, he quickly wrote something down and slid it back to her.

Against her better judgment, Buffy looked at the note:

'I'm Sorry'

She blinked away the tears in her eyes as she looked away. She knew that she was being petty and selfish, but she couldn't control her feelings any more than she could control what Spike said to her the other night.

---

As the bell rang, signaling the end of class, Buffy hurriedly gathered her books together, eager to get out of the close proximity of the man who awakened so many emotions in her.

Unfortunately, Spike was too fast for her. As Buffy reached for her backpack, her hand was met with nothing but air. She looked down in confusion before letting her eyes travel upward. Spike stood above her, holding her bag in one hand as he made eye contact with her.

"Thanks," Buffy said softly, reaching for it.

"I've got it, pet."

"No, that's really okay," Buffy said, trying not to look into his eyes. She felt like he could look right through her when she stared at him. He probably could.

"I said, I've got it," Spike repeated as he held her bag out of reach. "Lead the way."

Buffy sighed before turning and walking out of the classroom. She didn't need to stop by her locker, so she walked through the closest exit doors, not really caring if Spike was behind her.

"Let me give you a ride home, luv," Spike said, gesturing to his car that was parked a few feet away.

"I can walk," Buffy mumbled.

"Don't act like the spoiled little rich girl- it doesn't suit you. Just let me take you home."

"I thought it did suit me," Buffy replied, looking into his eyes and realizing her mistake as they seemed to read every thought she had.

"I was wrong," Spike said softly, stopping next to his car and grabbing her arm in a gentle grip to stop her. "I shouldn't have said it. I shouldn't have said a lot of things, but I open my mouth and they just come out."

Buffy looked down at the ground, swallowing hard as she felt her emotions rise to the surface.

Spike gently ran his hand along her cheek to come to rest on the back of her neck, his fingers threading through her hair. "Forgive me, luv," he whispered. "I never meant to hurt you."

Buffy felt tears spring to her eyes as Spike slowly lowered his head, his lips barely brushing against hers.

"Please," he whispered softly against her lips.

Buffy didn't answer as she wrapped her arms around his neck, pushing her lips against his, enjoying the opportunity to not think before she acted. Spike dropped everything he was holding as his arms went to encircle her waist, needing to feel as close to her as possible.

The kiss was passionate and consuming. Buffy felt herself clutching at Spike's shoulders as she fought to remain upright. Spike gently pushed her against the car as his hands trailed over the slight curve in her hips.

Breaking away, Buffy gasped as his lips found their way down her neck, softly nibbling on the tender flesh that was exposed.

"Spike," she whispered breathlessly. "We can't…we're…we can't do this here."

"I think we are," he said in a husky whisper as his lips met hers again. Buffy moaned as his tongue caressed hers, sweeping lightly against her lips as she pushed herself against him.

After several long moments, Spike stepped away, breathless, and looked into her eyes. Gently pushing her hair off her shoulder, Spike gave her a gentle smile. "I want to be with you, Buffy," he said softly.

Buffy's eyes widened. "Spike, I-"

"No, not like that," Spike said, shaking his head. "Well…yes, like that," he added as an afterthought. "But what I meant was…"

Buffy smiled at his nervousness. "You want to go out on a date?" she asked softly, causing Spike to look into her eyes.

He stared at her for a moment before the smile spread to his lips. "God, yes.  If you do."

"Of course I want to, silly," Buffy said with a giggle, causing Spike to claim her lips again.

"Let me take you home, luv," Spike whispered a moment later.

Buffy nodded as Spike opened the door for her.

---

Spike walked Buffy up the steps in front of her house. He didn't want to say good-bye to her, but he knew it wouldn't help if her father was to come home and find him in the house again (and this time, not working on a school assignment).

"What about tomorrow night?" he asked, holding her hand as she turned to look up at him.

"For what?" she asked curiously.

"Our date."

Buffy smiled, liking the sound of that. "Sounds good," she said softly as Spike leaned forward to leave a tender kiss on her lips.

"You're sure it will be okay?" he asked, pulling away after a moment as he looked over her shoulder at the imposing house.

"It'll be fine," she replied with a nod, smiling as Spike gently squeezed her hand in his.

"I'll pick you up tomorrow at seven," he whispered with a slight smile, leaning forward to gently brush his lips against hers again. Slowly, he pulled away, giving Buffy a long look before turning and walking to his car.

Buffy smiled and waved as he pulled out of the driveway. For the first time in months, she felt happy. She just hoped it would last.

---

Note: Okay, this was the chapter that my writer's block developed.  It's over, for the moment, but I decided to fast-forward, skipping ahead about a month.  I'm sorry to anyone who wanted the first date, but I hope this chapter will make it up to you.

Feelings

"Spike…" Buffy giggled as his lips attacked her neck. "I thought you came over to study."

"Me, too," he murmured, letting his hands trail up her body as his mouth continued its assault. "I just can't help myself."

Buffy finally relented, laying back on her bed as his hands massaged her lower back. The two had been dating for over a month, and every time they got a moment alone, this was the end result. Not that Buffy was complaining, but it was becoming more and more obvious that they might fail their English project.

"Spike," she whispered, her voice taking on a needy quality as her hands threaded through his hair.

Spike pulled back, looking at her for a moment, before sealing his lips to hers in a tender kiss.

The past two weeks, Buffy's father had gone out of town on business, and Spike was relieved that they didn't have to worry about him. Now, as he lay on top of his girlfriend, he felt his hips lightly rotate against hers, almost testing her reaction. Spike's eyes rolled back when her body arched against his, making him grow almost painfully hard with her movement.

"Spike," she whispered as he pulled back to look into her emerald eyes. He frowned when he saw her worrying her bottom lip with her teeth.

"What is it, luv?" he whispered as he tenderly brushed the hair away from her face.

"Can we…go farther?" she asked in a timid voice, averting her eyes.

Spike swallowed hard as his eyes widened, not sure if he heard the right request. "Buffy…are you sure?"

"I am," she whispered, raising her eyes to his as she nodded.

Spike watched as she gently pushed against his chest so she could sit up before removing her shirt completely. He felt his mouth go dry at the golden skin that was exposed, reaching out to lightly run a hand over her bare shoulder and down her arm.

Any words that he might have articulated were silenced as Buffy's lips slid across his. Buffy moaned as Spike's fingers interlaced through her hair, pulling her even closer to him as the kiss deepened.

After a few minutes, Buffy broke away from him breathlessly as she flipped them over, straddling his waist. Spike looked up at her, giving her a soft smile as she slowly leaned forward, unhurriedly touching her lips to his. Her tongue gently brushed his bottom lip, asking for entrance, as Spike felt his eyes roll back at her tenderness.

His mouth opened for her as his hands gripped her hips, trying to control his emotions as she lightly pushed against him. Buffy gasped when she felt them rolling over once again before moaning as his hand traveled up her stomach to graze the tender skin underneath her bra. Buffy squirmed around underneath him for a moment as she released the clasp on her bra, letting it fall to the floor.

Spike felt his breath catch as he stared at her exposed breasts, gently running his hand along the side of one before letting his thumb lightly tease one nipple. Buffy tried to keep her breathing as steady as possible as they looked into each other's eyes.

"Are you sure?" Spike asked again, his hands traveling lower until they rested on the waistband of her pants. Buffy didn't answer as she pulled him into another kiss. As the kiss intensified, she could feel his hands moving, slowly stripping her of her clothes before sitting up and practically ripping off his shirt. She watched nervously as he looked back at her before unhurriedly sliding his jeans down his legs. Buffy could barely comprehend that he wasn't wearing anything under his jeans as she looked at his hardened length, her eyes widening at the size.

Buffy felt her face flush as he crawled up the length of her body before she was lying beneath him, completely naked. Spike smiled at the delicate blush as he ran his hands over her skin, putting her at ease. His lips met hers in another kiss as one of his hands lightly palmed her breast.

"Wait," Buffy said breathlessly, smiling when Spike immediately jumped away from her as if he'd been burned. "Not that kind of 'wait'," Buffy said, rolling over slightly to rummage through her nightstand, extracting a condom a moment later.

Spike took it from her with a raised eyebrow as he looked from it to her. "Buffy…didn't I see some birth control pills in your bathroom?"

"Yes," Buffy said quietly as she watched him. "This is for you, because…I thought you might be more comfortable if you had…"

"So, this is for my benefit?" he asked skeptically as Buffy nodded.

"I thought…"

"Answer me," he said gently.

"Yes."

"Let's get one thing straight, luv. You trust me, right?"

"Of course," Buffy replied, her eyes widening.

"You know I got tested to make sure you stay safe whenever we decided to do this?"

"You're kinda killin' the mood, Spike."

"Answer the question."

"I know you would never put me in danger."

"And you feel the same way?"

"What?" Buffy asked, her mouth hanging open slightly. "Spike, I would never hurt-"

She was immediately silenced as his lips fused with hers before breathlessly pulling away, tossing the condom over his shoulder. "That's all I wanted to hear," he said with a smile as she playfully smacked his chest.

The mood immediately turned serious as his hand dipped between her thighs, slowly inserting a finger into her body as her eyes fluttered shut and her breathing became more labored.

Buffy felt her heartbeat skyrocket as he moved on top of her to settle in between her legs. "I want to feel you," he murmured softly, brushing his lips against her collarbone as his shaft teased her entrance. Pulling back to look into her eyes, he brushed a lock of hair away from her face.  "I want to feel all of you…nothing between us."

He entered her with an agonizingly slow pace, gently thrusting in and out of her, getting deeper until he froze completely.

"Buffy?"

Spike stared at her in shock, his mouth slightly open, his eyes wide.

"I didn't know if I should tell you," Buffy whispered quietly, burying her face in his shoulder.

Spike swallowed nervously. She was a virgin. He breathed heavily as he pulled back to give her a soft kiss. "You still want to do this?"

Buffy nodded, tears shimmering in her eyes. "If you still want me."

"I always want you," he said in a husky whisper. "It's going to hurt for a minute, baby."

Buffy's eyes squeezed shut at he tore through her barrier, her nails digging into his back. She stifled a sob as tears streamed down her cheeks.

Spike stilled his movements as he tried to comfort her. "It's over," he whispered, kissing her tears away, trying to fight his own emotions for making her cry. "I'll never hurt you again, baby, I promise."

Slowly, her muscles began to relax around him as her hands released their hold. "It's better," she whispered before arching her hips against his.

Spike closed his eyes before moving slowly, sheathing himself fully inside her and gradually pulling out with long, sure strokes.

They moved together as if they were made for each other. Spike brought her to her orgasm gradually as Buffy threw her head back as she cried out in pleasure. Spike followed soon after, gasping her name as he pulsed deep inside of her.

Minutes later she was laying in his arms as Spike gently traced his fingertips along her arm. "Why didn't you tell me?" he whispered.

"I didn't think you'd believe me," she whispered, averting her eyes. "You were so sure that you knew who I was, and…"

Spike closed his eyes in shame as he pulled her as close to him as possible. "I'm sorry," he said softly, burying his face in her silky hair. "Will you tell me now?"

Buffy took a deep breath. "I was dating a guy named Scott in L.A. We were never really serious, but he always tried to push me to go farther than I wanted to." Buffy felt Spike's arms tighten around her in a rigid hold. "When I finally broke up with him, he got mad because I never…anyway, he knew who my dad was, so he called him 'anonymously', telling him that his only child was sleeping with anyone who would have her.  And, as you said, the story made it here before I did."

"So that's where the hatred with you and your dad comes from?"

"No," Buffy replied. "That's where the name-calling comes from. We've always hated each other."

"I'm sorry," he whispered again.

"Hey, I'm starving," Buffy said, changing the subject as she sat up. "What do you say we head out for pizza?"

Spike had to smile at her suddenly chipper attitude. "I'd have to say, that sounds great," he replied, pulling her to him for a gentle kiss.

---

Rescue

Buffy held onto Spike as he walked her to her front door later that night. She smiled as he pulled her into his arms, leaving a soft kiss on her forehead.

"You're amazing," Spike whispered.

Buffy blushed, her smile fading as she looked over his shoulder.

"What's wrong, luv?"

"I didn't leave the lights on."

"Maybe Fred or Gunn decided to stop by and check on you."

"It's their night off, Spike. They would call, not come over." Spike could feel the tension in her body as she stared at the front door. "He's back early."

"You don't know that," Spike whispered, running his hands up and down her arms, trying to put her at ease.

"Yes, I do," Buffy replied, clutching at Spike. "I don't want to go in there."

"Do you want me to go with you?"

Buffy saw the light in her father's office switch on and felt her body go rigid before turning to face Spike. "I don't want to go," she whispered as tears began streaming down her face. "I want things to stay the way they are. I want to be happy…I don't want to be here," she cried as Spike pulled her against his chest, feeling tears fall from his own eyes as she buried her face against him, sobbing.

"I don't want you to go either, luv," he said in a choked whisper, not willing to let her go.

The minutes seemed to fly by as Buffy slowly pulled away from Spike, wiping her eyes as she turned to the door.

"Buffy," he whispered. "You don't have to go in there now."

"I know," she said, trying to be brave. "But the sooner I go in, the faster it will be over."

"I want you to call me later," he said, tucking her hair behind her ears as he held onto her.

"I will," she promised, pulling him down for a long, tender kiss as she tried to control her tears. Stepping away much too soon for either of them, Buffy managed to hold back the next flow of tears as she looked into his bright eyes. "Tonight was the best night of my life," she whispered with a watery smile.

"Mine, too," Spike replied, trying his hardest to smile against his tears.

---

Spike sat next to the phone for nearly two hours, waiting for Buffy's call, lunging for it when it finally rang.

"Spike?"

"It's me, luv. What's wrong?"

"I-I need to…"

"What? Buffy, talk to me."

"I had to call…I can't see you anymore."

Spike felt as if his heart was about to stop. "Buffy-"

"I need to go."

"Buffy, are you okay?"

"I'm sorry," she whispered.

"Is he there?"

"Yes."

Spike held the phone away from his ear as the dial tone signaled that she'd hung up.

"Damn it!" he cried, resisting the urge to throw the phone. "DAD! MUM!"

Jenny and Giles ran into the living room, both looking panicked at their son's outburst.

"What's wrong?" Jenny asked, running over to Spike.

"It's Buffy. Her dad came home tonight, and I think something's wrong."

"Like what?" Jenny asked worriedly.

"She said she couldn't see me anymore."

"Son," Giles spoke up. "Are you sure she just-"

"Don't even say it," Spike interrupted. "She said she didn't want to go in that house when I dropped her off. She's happy when she's with me."

"Rupert," Jenny began. "We've talked about the possibility-"

"Say no more," Giles said. "Jenny, stay here. Spike, come with me."

"What possibility?" Spike asked as they practically bolted out the door.

"That Hank's temper might get the best of him."

"You know about Hank?"

"I knew his wife left him because he turned into an abusive bastard," Giles replied. "You're mother and I have discussed the possibility that Buffy might be in danger eventually."

"And you didn't think that maybe I should be included in any of these conversations?" Spike asked angrily.

"As long as you were spending time with Buffy, giving her someone to listen to or simply be with, we didn't think it should be relevant. You were with her when she needed someone. Your mother and I couldn't do anything with our mere opinions."

---

Five minutes later, Giles was coming to a screeching halt in front of the Summers Mansion. Spike was out of the car before it stopped moving, running up to the front door, and began incessantly knocking.

He glared when Hank opened the door. "Where is she?" he asked through gritted teeth.

"I'm sorry," Hank replied with false politeness. "She doesn't want to see you anymore."

Spike's hand shot out to block the door, seconds before Hank shut it in his face. "I'm not leaving."

"Then I'm calling the police to have you arrested for trespassing."

"Yeah?" Spike asked with a smile, seconds before his fist connected with the older man's nose. "If I'm going to be arrested, it's going to be for a better charge than trespassing," he replied, throwing another punch at his stomach. "Like assault and battery."

Spike raised his fist again and was surprised when it was caught in a strong grip. Turning to face his father, he saw the look that he had only seen one other time in his life. The look in his eye that he had a few years ago when a co-worker turned stalker wouldn't leave Jenny alone. Ripper.

"Spike, go check on Buffy. I'll handle things down here."

Spike wasn't about to argue as he quickly made his way up the stairs, practically running for Buffy's bedroom. Opening the door, he scanned the darkened area, finally seeing her curled up in her window seat, hugging her knees to her chest. She didn't see him as he slowly walked toward her.

Spike couldn't tell anything was wrong as he looked at her. She was wearing her favorite jeans and a dark green turtleneck sweater, but Spike knew she wasn't wearing that when he'd dropped her off a few hours ago.

Getting a few feet away, Spike stopped. "Buffy," he whispered softly.

Her head snapped around to face him before she seemed to withdraw into herself, cuddling her legs closer to her body. "You shouldn't be here, Spike," she said hoarsely.

"I'm going to turn on a light, luv," he said softly, reaching for the lamp on her nightstand. The shadows seemed to diminish as the soft glow spread through the room, bathing the young girl in a golden light. She was facing the window again, and Spike could see her body shaking with the sobs that she was trying to suppress.

"Look at me, Buffy," he whispered, walking over to her. Crouching down at her side, Spike reached up, slowly turning her head to face him. He felt his jaw clench when he saw her split lip and swollen cheek. The cheekbone already had a shade of purple spreading along her skin.

"You shouldn't see me like this," she whispered, fighting the tears in her eyes. Spike didn't say anything as he picked her up, only to turn and sit down in the seat, letting her curl into him. "I tried to…I tried to get away," Buffy said softly as she clutched Spike's strong shoulders.

Spike closed his eyes, feeling the anguish rip through to his soul as he held her. "Are you hurt anywhere else?" Spike asked in a choked voice.

Buffy shook her head, trying to stop the flow of tears, hating herself for being weak.

"You're sure?"

Buffy sighed. "It's just my shoulder," she whispered. "I'll be fine."

"And he didn't…"

Spike couldn't even get himself to finish that sentence.

"No," Buffy said softly.

Spike was about to reply when he heard a movement in the doorway. Both turned to see Giles walking into the room. He seemed to pause when he saw the tender display before his face hardened when he saw the damage inflicted on his son's girlfriend.

"Pack your things, Buffy," Giles said. "We're getting you out of here."

Spike gave his father a grateful look as he glanced at Giles' hands and noticed his bruised knuckles. With a nod to his father, he turned to see the shocked look on Buffy's face.

"Wh-what's going on?" she asked.

"You're moving in with us," Giles replied.

"But my father-"

"Is no longer a problem," Giles said with a soft smile. "It seems he is very agreeable to the fact."

Buffy's eyes widened as she turned to look at Spike.

"Go pack, Buffy. We'll wait," he said with a smile, kissing her temple before she climbed out of his lap.

Spike smiled as Buffy walked over to Giles, throwing her arms around him. "Thank you, so much," she whispered, with tears evident in her voice.

Spike's smile broadened at Giles' flustered look. One second, Ripper would be shining through, and the next, he was back to a bumbling librarian.

"Come on, luv," Spike said, gently putting a hand on her back. "Let's get you out of here."

---

Healing

Buffy breathed a sigh of relief when she walked through the front door of the Giles home. She wasn't sure what transpired between Giles and Hank Summers, but Hank was nowhere to be found when they left.

As soon as the door closed behind them, an emotional Jenny immediately enveloped Buffy in a hug. The older woman slowly pulled away to gently cup Buffy's face and look at the injuries she had. "Honey, are you okay?"

"I am now," Buffy replied with tears in her eyes as she smiled. "Thank you so much for doing this."

"No thanks are needed," Jenny said with a smile. "Let me get you some ice. Rupert, why don't you take her bags up to her room?"

Once the couple was alone in the living room, Spike's arms immediately found their way around Buffy's waist. She leaned back, enjoying the strength and support he was offering her.

"This is all happening so fast," Buffy murmured. "I can't believe your parents are just letting a virtual stranger come live with them."

"You're not a stranger, Buffy," Spike said softly, turning her around in his embrace. "They want you here. Not as much as I do," he added with a smile. "But they do want you here."

"I should probably call Fred and Gunn…let them know what happened."

"Don't worry about it, luv. I had Mum call Fred."

"What? How did you get her number, she's unlisted?"

Spike smiled sheepishly as he pulled Buffy closer. "She was my informant, so to speak."

"She gave you my cell number," Buffy replied in understanding as her eyes widened.

"They were worried about you, baby," he whispered, nuzzling her neck. "They wanted to keep you safe."

Buffy sighed contentedly as Spike held her firmly in his grasp.

Jenny quietly entered the room, leaving an icepack on the coffee table, before slipping out to leave the two alone.

"And why do you want me here, Mr. Giles?" she asked with a smile.

Spike's expression turned serious as he stared into her eyes. "Because…I'm in love with you."

Buffy's eyes widened at the admission, seconds before she found herself wrapped in strong arms, her lips being devoured in a passionate kiss. Breaking away after a moment, Buffy let her hands wander up to wrap around his neck. "I love you, too."

Spike slowly began kissing along her jaw-line, smiling at the words, before moving to her ear. "It's late. Maybe we should head upstairs."

Buffy gasped slightly, pulling away to look in his eyes. "Are you saying what I think you're saying?"

Spike smiled. "What do you think I'm saying, luv?"

Buffy narrowed her eyes slightly before a mischievous smile overtook her features. "I think you're saying it's been a long night, so we need to get some sleep."

Turning around, Buffy's smile broadened when she felt his arms wrap around her waist, pulling her back to him as he pushed his erection against her. "Spike…we can't. Your parents-"

"Won't know a thing," he whispered. "They're already going to sleep for the night, which leaves you and me all alone in my big, comfortable bed. What do you say?"

"I say…remind me where your room is again."

---

Spike worshiped Buffy's naked body with his teeth and tongue, kissing and licking his way down her stomach, lightly nibbling at the soft swell of her abdomen, moaning when her legs parted for him. He quickly moved lower, accepting her invitation, as he unhurriedly kissed his way to her dripping center.

His tongue lightly swept over her opening, bathing her sensitive area before brushing over the hardened bundle of nerves. Buffy gasped as he latched on, catapulting her into an instant orgasm, her hands lacing through his hair, holding him to her as she rode out the effects. She whimpered in need, trying her hardest not to scream and awaken the adults in the household.

Spike pressed his hand against her stomach, trying to soothe her and draw out her pleasure at the same time. When Buffy finally went limp, Spike climbed up her body, licking his lips as he moved above her, slowly bending forward to claim her lips in a soft kiss.

Buffy moaned, tasting herself on him, as she reached lower, positioning him at her opening before arching her hips off the bed, letting him enter her fully. Spike gasped as Buffy wrapped her legs around his waist, pulling him more fully inside of her. He was making a conscious effort not to crush her and irritate any injuries she may have, but she seemed more than content beneath him.

Slowly, he began to regain control of his body as she pulled him closer to her, letting their bodies fall into perfect movement.

Spike's eyes squeezed shut as her muscles began to clamp around him, causing them both to shake with the feeling of being a part of the other. Meeting her lips in a soft kiss, Spike pulled away to clamp his hand over Buffy's mouth as she fell over the edge. Her brow furrowed with pleasure as her fingernails dug into his back, trying to keep from screaming out her release.

Letting go of her, Spike brushed a kiss over her forehead, proud of her holding it in. "That's my girl," he whispered.

He watched as Buffy's eyes widened seconds before she gasped, and a third more powerful orgasm overtook her. Her inner muscles grasped at his shaft as he continued moving within her.

"Spike!"

Spike couldn't help but smile at the explosion, seconds before his own body peaked, sending him into oblivion as the pleasure coursed through him.

"I love you," she whispered, kissing his damp forehead.

"I love you, too, baby," he whispered breathlessly.

---

Two hours later, Spike slipped into some sweatpants as he heard a knock on the door. Making sure Buffy was completely covered with the comforter, he went to answer it and saw his mom standing on the other side.

"Is Buffy okay?" Jenny asked. "I went to check on her, and she wasn't in her room. I got worried."

"She's fine, Mum," Spike replied, rubbing his eyes as he opened the door a little wider, letting a sliver of light fall on Buffy's peacefully sleeping face. "First night in a new house. She's had a rough night."

"Yeah," Jenny agreed with a smile as she backed out of the room. Turning to walk down the hall, Jenny looked back over her shoulder. "William?"

"Yeah, Mum," Spike replied before closing the door.

"You are using protection?"

Spike felt his face turn about four different shades of red as Jenny smiled softly. "I wasn't born in the dark ages, William. I knew what we were getting into when we asked your girlfriend to come live with us. I just want to know that you're being careful."

Spike scuffed a foot along the floor, trying to avoid his mother's gaze. "Yes," he mumbled, wishing the floor would open up and swallow him so he could avoid this conversation. "We are."

"Good," Jenny replied, turning to walk toward her room.

"Mum?"

"Yes, dear?"

"I love her."

Jenny gave her son a soft smile as she nodded. "I know. She loves you, too."

Spike softly closed the door before crawling back into bed with Buffy.

Immediately sensing the difference, Buffy snuggled closer to him, causing Spike's eyes to roll back as her naked body pressed against his. Gently reaching out to caress the soft skin of her breast, Buffy's eyes fluttered open. "You're ready to go again?" she asked in a teasing tone as she stretched, arching her back off the bed.

Spike felt his mouth go dry as he stared at her body. "Only if you are."

Buffy noticed the serious tone and immediately rolled them over, straddling his waist. "Only if I get to be on top this time," she said with a smile.

"You can be anywhere you want, baby," Spike replied, running his hands over her curves.

"Feel up for pulling an all-nighter?" she asked, biting her lip and giggling as Spike moaned.

Note: Okay, before I get all the reviews, let me just say that I know a normal mom would not react that way, BUT I designed Jenny to be a cool mom from the beginning and, let's face it, when you invite your son's girlfriend to live in your house, you know they're going to find a way if that's what it takes. Hope you liked the chapter. This one and the next one are very Spuffy centric, before we get back into the story, again. I felt that they needed a break from all the angst :-) Thanks for the wonderful reviews and support!

---

The Morning After

Buffy woke up the next morning, feeling more content and safe than she had ever felt. She was on her side, facing Spike's strong, bare chest, one of her legs nestled between both of his. Both of his arms were snugly wrapped around her, not willing to let go. She smiled when she looked up, meeting Spike's peaceful face. She wasn't sure when they had fallen asleep, but she was still exhausted from their activities the night before.

Buffy looked at Spike for a long moment, enjoying the chance to see all sides of him as he peacefully slept. His features were boyish, with pouty lips and long eyelashes, but at the same time, they were rugged. Buffy smiled when she realized that his toughest features were also 'manmade.' The peroxide hair that gave him an edge. The scar that crisscrossed through his eyebrow.

Buffy lightly traced the scar as she stared at it. It almost looked like it was put there so he wouldn't look too perfect, but at the same time, 'perfect' was the only way to describe how he looked.

Spike's eyes slowly opened, and he smiled when he saw Buffy lying next to him.

"Good morning," she whispered.

Spike gently brushed his lips against hers. "That it is, luv. Did you sleep well?"

Buffy slowly rolled away, stretching and rotating her sore muscles. "Better than ever."

Spike suppressed a groan as his hand trailed over her bare stomach, feeling the tight muscles that lay underneath.

Buffy lay still for a moment as she looked at him.

"What's going on in that head of yours, Goldilocks?" Spike asked, nuzzling her neck as she laughed.

"How'd you get the scar?" Buffy asked, pulling back to run her fingers over his eyebrow one more time.

"An accident a few years ago," Spike explained with a shrug.

Buffy raised her eyebrows, knowing there was clearly more to the story than Spike was letting on.

"Alright," he relented. "The football team and I got into a big fight with an opposing team last season. I was one of the unfortunate ones who got a bottle to the head as a gift from one of their fans. Shard of glass, a few stitches, and now I have what you see today," he explained, gesturing to it.

Buffy nodded slightly. "So…when you say football, I'm guessing you really mean soccer."

Spike snorted. "If that's what you want to call it."

Buffy smiled before sitting up, with all intentions of going to get a shower. She giggled when she was pulled back down and pinned with two arms wrapped around her body.

"Spike, I need to get up."

"You're not going anywhere," Spike playfully growled as he nipped the tender skin of her neck.

Buffy wiggled and squirmed until she was facing him once again and smiled. Spike, on the other hand, was frowning as he looked at her. Buffy's lip wasn't as bad as the night before, but her cheek was now a vicious shade of black, blue, and purple.

Buffy's smile faded as Spike reached up to gently trace her wounded skin. She tried to flinch away from him, hating herself for what happened the night before and for not being strong enough to defend herself.

"Why did he do it?" Spike asked softly.

"He got home early…found the condom that we didn't use, on the floor."

Spike shut his eyes as guilt seemed to explode in his body. "I'm sorry, luv," he whispered. "It's my fault."

"No," Buffy said, shaking her head as she tilted his head down, waiting until he opened his eyes. "It was his fault, not yours. Spike…you saved me."

She snuggled even further into his embrace, resting her head on his chest as he lovingly stroked her back and ran his fingers through her hair. "I love you so much," he whispered, leaving a delicate kiss on her shoulder.

"I know," Buffy said with a smile.

Spike waited for a moment before pulling back to look at her, scarred eyebrow raised in question. "Aren't you going to say it back?"

"I don't know," Buffy replied with a playful shrug. "Maybe later, I don't really feel like it right now."

Buffy moved to get out of the bed as she tried to suppress her laughter, but she was soon giggling as Spike pulled her back to the bed, pinning her underneath him. She squealed when he soon began mercilessly tickling her.

"Say it," he said in a warning tone as Buffy laughed and squirmed.

"Later," Buffy said, gasping for breath and trying to evade his maneuvers.

"Now."

"Okay, okay," Buffy replied, panting heavily as Spike stopped in expectation. Buffy slowly caressed his cheek as she stared into his cobalt eyes, her smile fading as the mood turned more serious. "I love you, Spike."

Spike smiled before catching her lips in a soft kiss. "Just like to hear you say it now and then," he said softly.

"I'll be saying it more than 'now and then.'"

Spike's happiness was short-lived as Buffy pulled away from him. He was soon frowning and making a move to grab her when she rolled out of bed, grabbing a button-down shirt from his desk chair and slipping it on. "Where do you think you're going?" Spike asked before groaning as Buffy turned around, only two buttons connecting the shirt, leaving him with an excellent view. "Well, that's got to be one of the sexiest things I've ever seen," he said, advancing toward her. "Even if I do prefer you with nothing on."

"Don't even think about it," Buffy warned, holding up a hand to keep him at bay. "I need to get a shower."

"No problem," Spike said with a casual shrug. "I'll join you."

"You will not!" Buffy cried, staring at him. "Look, Mister. Your parents might turn a blind eye to us sharing a bed, but I think they might be a little suspicious if we share the bathroom."

Buffy smiled as Spike's bottom lip poked out in an endearing pout. With a sigh, she walked over, wrapping her arms around his lean waist and planting soft kisses on his chest.

"Keep doing that, luv, and you won't be making it to the shower," Spike said, his eyes trying to stay open as his hands traveled up to her hair.

"I'll be back in a minute," Buffy said softly.

"You know it's going to kill me, knowing you're in there and not able to get to you."

"I'll make it up to you."

"How?" Spike asked with a smile.

"Next time your parents are gone for a while, we can have a shower together," she replied with a grin.

Spike raised an eyebrow at the offer as Buffy turned and headed out the door.

"Promise?" he called after her.

"I promise," she yelled back before shutting the bathroom door.

Spike waited until the water was running before quickly dressing and jogging downstairs.

"Mum! Dad!" he called. "How would you two like dinner and a movie tonight? It's on me."

---

Delusions

Spike and Buffy lay curled up on the couch later that night. Buffy had stayed true to her word and shared a shower with Spike while his parents were spending the night out. He was contently wrapped around his girlfriend, sharing a bowl of popcorn and some chick flick that Buffy had picked out.

Spike frowned when he heard a knock at the door, disentangling himself from Buffy as he went to answer it. His jaw set on edge when he opened the door to reveal a very bruised Hank Summers.

"You're not welcome here, mate," Spike said with a raised eyebrow, not intimidated in the slightest by the older man.

"I came to see my daughter."

"Is that a fact?" Spike asked with a smirk. "Well, I'm sorry, but she doesn't want to see you anymore," he finished, echoing the words Hank had told him the previous night.

"She's my daughter, and I'll…"

Hank trailed off as he looked over Spike's shoulder. Spike turned around to see Buffy huddled next to the stairs, staring at the two men. Spike wanted to go to her, but he resisted the urge, not wanting to give Hank the opportunity to walk in the house uninvited.

"Buffy, talk to me," Hank said in the soothing tone he used on his clients.

Buffy took a step forward before Spike's hand blocked the small opening that led outside. "She's not going anywhere."

"Spike."

Spike turned at the small voice, looking at Buffy in confusion.

"I'll talk to him," she whispered.

Spike abandoned the door, not caring if Hank came into the house. He knew he could deal with him if it came to that. He stared at Buffy for a long moment. She looked so tiny and frail, wearing a turtleneck that seemed to swallow her, falling past her waist and almost covering her hands. Her hair was down and lightly curled from drying after their shower. Her cheekbone was still several shades of purple and blue, making her look even more helpless to Spike. "You don't have to do this, luv," he said softly.

"Yes, I do," she whispered, looking at Spike with pleading eyes.

Spike set his jaw, closing his eyes for a moment.

"We can talk outside," Hank said, causing Spike to whirl around and face him.

"No, you won't!"

"Spike," Buffy said softly. "It's okay. I need to do this alone."

Spike took a deep breath. "I'll go outside," he said to Buffy before turning to face her father. "You have five minutes."

Making sure he had his key in case Hank tried to pull anything over on him, Spike stepped out on the front porch, lighting a much needed cigarette before he was even fully out of the house.

Buffy turned to her father as the door shut behind her boyfriend, holding up her hand. "Do NOT come any closer than that."

"What are you doing here, Buffy?" Hank asked.

"Staying away from you," she answered bluntly.

"You think he wants you?" he asked, gesturing to the front door. "You think he'll still be here if you weren't such an easy lay?"

Buffy could feel her resolve crumbling as her father spoke. Tears began glistening in her eyes as he continued.

"You're nothing but a charity case to him, Buffy. You'll have him for a few months, and then he'll head off to college, and you'll go wherever the hell you're headed. He'll forget all about you as soon as some cheerleader gets him off."

"What do you want from me?" Buffy asked, still fighting the tears as she stared at a man who was supposed to be her father. "You don't want me to come home. Do you want me attend some fundraiser with you?" she asked sarcastically. "Pretend to be the perfect family?"

Hank glared at his daughter as she looked down at the floor and continued.

"You're supposed to love me," she whispered, hating herself for showing her weakness but needing him to understand at the same time. Maybe she needed herself to understand as well. "You're my only living relative. We share the same blood, Dad. I never did anything that you said I did. I know you got that call from Scott, and I don't know how the rumor spread all over town, but that's all it was…a rumor. So, I want to know…why do you hate me?"

Hank didn't answer as he looked at his daughter with a strange mixture of disgust and pity. He took a deep breath as he looked down at the floor. "I've already told you."

"Because of Mom," Buffy said with a nod. "So what happens now?" she asked, knowing that if he really wanted to drag her back to that hellhole, she would have no choice in the matter.

Hank seemed to think for a moment before answering. "If anyone asks, you're only here temporarily."

"Am I?"

"I don't know."

Without another word, Hank turned and left the house, not giving Spike a second glance as the younger man bolted through the door and slammed it behind him.

"Are you okay?" Spike asked.

Buffy was visibly shaken up, more from the fact that she confronted her father, but also for the words that haunted her. What if Spike was only with her because she was easy? It's not like she had been before, but they had only been together for a month and she'd slept with him. She wasn't even eighteen. Did she really expect Spike to stay with her for the rest of her life? Was she that delusional?

"Buffy, are you okay?" Spike asked a little more forcefully as he looked at her.

"I'm fine," she replied in an unconvincing voice as she shook her head, as if trying to clear it.

Spike frowned as he put his arms around her, only to have her flinch and pull away from him.

"Luv," Spike said softly. "I know you're a little shaken up, but everything will be okay. Why don't we go upstairs, alright?"

Spike meant it in the most innocent context, but the shocked look Buffy gave him, made him think he'd asked her to have sex on Principal Snyder's desk.

"No," Buffy said, shaking her head. "Y-you stay down here…I'll be upstairs."

Spike watched anxiously as Buffy climbed the stairs, not giving him a second glance. He heard the soft click of her bedroom door before turning and facing the door. Hank Summers was gone, but Spike knew he was still with Buffy in everything that she did.

"What did you say to her, you pillock?"

---

Confrontations

The next day, Spike was more worried than ever. He'd noticed that morning that Buffy was wearing more make-up than usual, to cover the bruising on her face. He had given her a ride to school, but she had barely said two words to him.

Spike had filled his parents in when they got home the previous night, but when he went to check on Buffy, she was already asleep. Or at least, pretending to be asleep.

It was now lunchtime, and Spike could see Buffy sitting with Willow and Xander on the other side of the cafeteria. Although they had been dating for over a month, very few people at school knew it. They only had one class together, and Buffy insisted that he sit with his friends so he wouldn't start ignoring them, and she still sat with hers. Today, he headed over to her table, bending low to whisper in her ear. "I've missed you, luv."

Buffy seemed to jump as she turned to face him. "What are you doing?" she asked, looking around the cafeteria.

"Sitting with my girlfriend," he replied, dropping into a seat as he nodded a quick hello to her friends.

"Really, Spike…you don't have to."

Spike stared at her for a long moment before responding. "Can we talk, luv?"

Buffy took a deep breath before nodding. Spike stood with her, following her out into the hallway as she turned to face him. He noticed that she wasn't raising her eyes to his. Spike slowly tilted her chin up to look at her, seeing insecurity written all over her face.

"Buffy, what happened?"

"I'm fine, Spike," she insisted a little too rapidly.

"Are we fine?" he asked, feeling insecurity begin to creep through him as he stared at her.

"I don't know," she whispered, turning her head away from his.

Spike clenched his jaw as he took her firmly by the shoulders, turning her to face him. "We were fine until last night, Buffy. What's going on?"

Buffy took a deep breath, tears shimmering in her eyes as she looked at him. "I don't think this is going to work," she whispered, feeling her heart breaking.

Spike felt his stomach drop as he stared at her in shock. "What's not going to work, baby?" he asked softly.

Buffy swallowed hard before taking a deep breath. "Us."

"We were working just fine the other night," Spike replied, feeling his temper get the best of him. Lowering his voice to a whisper, he bent to Buffy's eye level. "And considering we live together, I think it's going to be pretty hard getting away from me because I have no intention of letting you go back to that wanker that you call a father."

"I need…I need some space," Buffy said softly.

"We've been going out a month, and you need space?" he asked in disbelief.

"Spike, please-"

"No, Buffy! Now, tell me what the hell happened in the last twelve hours that made you have such a big change of heart."

"Spike…"

Buffy swallowed a sob as she turned to walk away from him. Spike quickly caught her arm, bringing her closer to him as he spoke. "You said you loved me," his voice taking on a desperate quality.

"I know," Buffy replied in a quiet voice before pulling free and running down the hallway.

He watched her go, as his heart shattered.

"So, you got a ride, too, huh, Giles?"

Spike clenched his jaw and turned to face Parker Abrams.

"What do you mean 'too'?" Spike asked with a raised eyebrow as Parker began walking toward him.

"She's a good lay, isn't she?" Parker asked with a smile as Spike clenched both of his fists.

"I don't see how you would know."

Parker looked at him as if he was the stupidest man on the planet. "I had her already, remember? That one definitely has stamina."

Spike couldn't take anymore as he let his fist fly, connecting to Parker's nose with a solid punch.

"What the fuck, man!" Parker yelled as his hand came up to the blood that was now flowing freely.

"Stop spreading lies, Abrams," Spike said in a menacing voice. "Buffy would never touch you, and we both know it."

Spike was surprised when Parker punched him in the stomach but quickly got his bearings and retaliated, sending the other man sprawling on the tile. Spike was on him in an instant, punching and kicking as Parker tried to get to his feet.

Spike was so consumed by his rage, he barely even registered when he was pulled away and held back.

"What the hell is going on here?"

Spike and Parker both groaned when they heard Snyder's voice. Spike was released and turned around to see Angel standing behind him.

"Sorry, man," Angel said softly. "I tried to stop you before he saw, but…"

Spike nodded his understanding as the annoying little mad approached them.

"You two, in my office. NOW!"

Both men looked at each other with mutual hatred as they slowly trudged to the office.

---

Buffy looked around her English class, feeling more anxious when she still didn't see Spike. She hadn't seen him since the disaster at lunch, and she was starting to get worried. Her heart felt like it was falling apart, but deep down, she felt that her father was right. Spike didn't need her. She knew that he cared about her, but she probably was just the next best thing until college.

When the bell signaling the last class was over, finally rang, Buffy quickly gathered her books and ran out the door. She was in such a hurry, she almost ran over a very nervous Giles as he stood at the door, apparently waiting on her.

"Buffy, I'm glad I caught you. I'm afraid I'll be the one driving you home today."

A tiny part of her was relieved that she wouldn't be in such a confining space with the man she loved and let go, but a larger part began to grow very concerned.

"Where's Spike?"

Giles took a deep breath as he took his glasses off and began cleaning them. "I'm afraid he's been suspended."

---

Boiling Point

Buffy walked into Spike's bedroom, slamming the door behind her. Spike looked up in surprise, standing when he saw her walk in.

"You got suspended!" she yelled. "What the hell were you trying to prove?"

Spike raised an eyebrow at Buffy's outburst. "You know," he replied. "I thought you'd be the last one in line. What happened? Did Mum and Dad not want to yell at me right now?"

"They saw how mad I was and decided to leave for a while," Buffy replied, crossing her arms across her chest and raising her own eyebrow, almost in a challenge. "They were hoping I might be able to talk some sense into you. What the hell were you thinking, Spike?"

"I was thinking that Parker Abrams was still spreading lies about you, and I set him straight," he replied, walking toward her as she backed into the door.

"It wasn't worth getting suspended, Spike," Buffy replied, almost breathlessly as Spike got closer to her.

"It's only a few days, luv. I'll be back at school before you know it. I wasn't willing to risk your reputation."

"Have you listened to the gossip going through that school, Spike!" Buffy cried. "You said it yourself, my reputation was established before I even moved into this town! What are you going to do? Beat up everyone who's talked about me? You would be first on that list."

Buffy's jaw clenched as Spike pinned her to the door, pressing his body against hers until she couldn't move.

"You're right," he whispered, his lips brushing against hers as he spoke.

Buffy's breath hitched as her eyes fluttered shut. She tried to resist the urge to bring her mouth to his.

"What's the matter, luv?" Spike asked softly, a smirk playing on his lips as his hands left the door to settle on her waist. "You seem a little short of breath."

"We can't do this, Spike," Buffy whispered. The words had sounded much more convincing in her head, but when she actually said them out loud, they seemed hollow and lacked the conviction she wished for.

"I think we already are," Spike said, his hands playing with the hem of her skirt as she gave him a gentle push, not trusting her reaction when he was so close to her, clouding her judgment.

Spike acted so quickly, Buffy's eyes widened as she found herself lifted into his arms, the sound of a zipper filling the quiet room. The noise seemed to reverberate through the open space, sounding like the loudest thing she had ever heard, as she was pressed against the door.

Buffy's eyes closed as her head rolled back against the door. His fingers brushed her thong aside, but she was surprised when she felt him teasing her entrance instead of pushing into her. Her thigh muscles were clenching in anticipation as she gasped for breath.

"I'll stop if you want me to, Buffy," Spike said in a low voice. "Just say the word."

Buffy opened her eyes, getting lost in his as she tightened her lips. Spike began breathing heavily at the simple gesture. With aching slowness, he began to fill her, inch by agonizing inch.

Spike held onto her hips as she tried to arch against him, craving more friction as he fully sheathed himself inside of her. He buried his head against her neck before he began thrusting in and out of her tight passage.

Buffy moaned in pleasure as they moved together, fitting each other perfectly. The euphoric sensations that seemed to be rushing through both of them was almost too much. Spike wasn't aware that anything else existed except for Buffy's body moving with his.

Spike pressed his forehead to hers as their eyes met, each conveying the vast emotions and feelings that the other was going through. He plunged in and out of her at a more rapid pace as her muscles began to tremble around him.

Spike knew she was close, and Buffy felt his hand dip in between their bodies, lightly teasing her clit as he helped her to climax.

Buffy clutched at Spike's body as he sent her over the edge with a scream of satisfaction.

Spike continued moving against her, feeling his own orgasm approaching as he, once again, buried his face in her neck. He sped up his thrusts before spilling himself deep inside of her.

"I love you," he whispered, their bodies melting together. "I love you, I love you."

Buffy pressed her head against his shirt, letting her tears fall as he whispered to her, wishing for so many things.

"Spike," she whispered, trying to disentangle herself from his strong grasp. "Don't."

Spike pulled back to look into her eyes, his own filling with anger as he stared at her. "You love me, I know you do. You're not going to do this, Buffy."

"Spike, let me go," she said softly, wriggling in his grasp, only to be pressed more firmly against the door.

"No," he replied, clenching his teeth.

"Spike, please," she begged softly, not trusting herself to keep her resolve, especially since he was still firmly joined with her.

"Tell me," Spike said, practically yelling at her, the desperation obvious in his panicked voice.

Buffy managed to push herself away, separating them. Spike took a step back as they straightened their clothes. She gave Spike a tender, remorseful look before turning for the door. Spike felt fear grip his heart before he stepped forward, wrapping his arms around her waist. "Please, baby," he whispered, nuzzling her hair before planting gentle kisses along her neck. "I love you."

Buffy sniffled, trying to hold back her tears. "I love you, too."

Spike watched, feeling his heart break as she pulled away from him, walking out of his room and leaving him alone.

---

Make It Work

Spike waited until he was positive that Buffy was in bed, before slipping on a pair of sweatpants and leaving his room. He had skipped dinner with his family, not feeling up to seeing anyone. Especially not up to seeing the woman he loved, ignoring him through the entire meal.

Slipping quietly down the hall, Spike slowly opened her bedroom door, careful not to make the hinges squeak as he shut it behind him. He stared at Buffy for a long moment, feeling his heart swell as he looked at her.

The moonlight spilled throughout the room, bathing it in a soft blue light. Her hair seemed illuminated, pooled on the pillow as she slept. Spike noticed it wasn't a peaceful sleep, however. Her brow was furrowed as she tossed slightly, obviously troubled by something.

Spike moved quietly across the room, climbing under the covers with her, before wrapping his body around her smaller one. Buffy seemed to quiet for a moment before he felt her tense as she entered the first stages of waking, realizing something was different.

"Shhh, it's me, luv," Spike whispered, leaving a soft kiss on the exposed skin of her shoulder as one hand slipped beneath her camisole to run soothing circles along her stomach.

Buffy once again seemed to relax before fully waking up and tension filling her body again. Spike noticed with a slight smile that she wasn't trying to pull away from him as she became more aware of her surroundings.

"Spike," she whispered. "What are you doing?"

"I couldn't be without you, baby," he whispered through his soft kisses.

"Spike, we can't keep doing this."

"Why not?" Spike asked with a hint of anger as his hold tightened.

"Because it's over," she whispered with tears in her eyes, grateful that her back was to him so he wouldn't see her cry.

"No, it's not," Spike said through gritted teeth before grabbing her more firmly and rolling her to face him.

Spike could see the tears rolling down her cheeks as he covered her body with his.

"Spike, what are you doing?" Buffy asked, a tremor of nervousness entering her voice, causing Spike to tenderly stroke her cheek.

"Nothing, baby," he whispered. "I just want to talk to you."

"While you're on top of me?" Buffy asked with a raised eyebrow as Spike smiled.

"Well, at least I know you can't run away."

Buffy couldn't help it- the smile slowly overtook her features as she looked away.

"Knew I could get a grin," he said with a soft smile as Buffy's faded. She looked back at him with sad eyes as he stared at her. "Did I do something, Buffy?" he asked softly, causing her eyes to widen.

"No," she said, shaking her head as Spike soothingly ran his hand along her arm. "No, of course not."

"What did he say?"

"Wh-who?"

"Don't play dumb with me, Buffy. Your father…what did your father say to you last night?"

"I-it was nothing," Buffy replied in a whisper.

"Nothing?" Spike asked disbelievingly. "And yet, you say you still love me, but you don't want to be with me anymore?"

Buffy looked away as she tried to control her tears.

"Is it true?" Spike asked. "Do you really want to break up with me?"

Buffy didn't say anything as Spike's eyes hardened. Rolling away from her and standing, Buffy gasped. "Where are you going?" she asked, almost in a panic, sitting up as she stared after him.

"You don't want to be with me, Buffy. You don't expect to stay where I'm not wanted, do you?" he asked, never looking at her as he walked toward the door.

"Because you can do better than me," Buffy said quietly, looking at the floor.

Spike froze, his hand on the doorknob as he steadied his breathing.

"Because you can do better than some charity case," Buffy continued.

"Charity case? Where are you getting…I want to kill your father," Spike spat, turning around. Walking back to the bed, he dropped down to his knees, taking Buffy's hands in his as he looked into her eyes. "I would never think that, luv," he said softly. "I'm with you because I want to be, not because I feel sorry for you or feel like I owe you anything, okay?"

"So you would have stayed with me even if we hadn't slept together?" Buffy asked doubtfully.

Spike's eyes clouded over with anger as he stood up. "Is that the only reason you did it?" he asked in a low tone. "You thought it was the only reason to keep me with you?"

"Spike-"

"No," Spike said angrily. "I would have stayed with you, Buffy. If you had wanted to wait until marriage, I would have been fine with that. I never wanted you to feel pressured to do something you weren't ready for."

"I was," Buffy whispered. "I was ready. And I wanted to be with you so much," she finished with tears in her eyes.

"I love you," Spike whispered, taking her face in his hands. "I love you," he repeated, looking into her eyes, needing her to understand the extent of his feelings.

"You love me…but what is that?" Buffy asked. "I know how I feel for you, but getting this feeling from someone I barely know..."

Spike tried to hide the flash of anger as she spoke. "I know what you're scared of, Buffy. Your father was supposed to love you, but he didn't…not the way he should, anyway, so how could I? Is that it?"

"You have your whole life ahead of you," Buffy whispered.

"With you."

"Spike, I'm not even eighteen. How can you know that you want to spend the rest of your life with me?"

"I'm not going to rationalize everything I feel, Buffy. I'm not letting you push me away just because you're scared. I told you I would be here, and I intend on keeping that promise."

Buffy felt her heart swell at his confession before pulling him down for a soft kiss. Her hands threaded through his hair, pulling him closer as her tongue slipped into his mouth. Spike felt the situation begin to spiral out of control as he gently put his hands on her arms, prying them away from him as he separated their lips.

"What's wrong?" Buffy asked in concern.

"We're not doing this tonight," Spike whispered, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear.

"You don't want me?" she asked softly.

"More than anything," he replied, giving her another gentle kiss. "But I don't want you to think this relationship revolves around sex."

Buffy smiled as Spike pulled her into his arms before lying back on the bed, holding her firmly against him as he kissed along her shoulder. "Tonight, I just want to hold you," he whispered against her skin as he left more kisses. "And tomorrow." Another kiss. "And the night after that…and the night after that."

Buffy began giggling as his lips attacked her neck, tickling more than pleasuring. She tried to squirm away from him as his hold tightened on her. Slowly, they settled down as Buffy rolled over to face him, tracing the scar in his eyebrow. "I love you," she whispered.

"I know."

---

Christmas Surprises

Christmas finally arrived and, miraculously, Buffy and Spike passed their English project.

Buffy hadn't heard anything from her father, and she didn't know whether to be worried or relieved. She had taken an after school job at the Sun Cinema to save some money for Christmas presents. The previous night, she and Spike went to visit Gunn and Fred, who were now dating, and Buffy could not have been happier for them. They were her family when she had no one, and she was relieved that they finally realized how much they needed each other. Much like her and Spike.

Spike had stayed true to his word, and although they did spend every night together, they hadn't made love in weeks. Some nights were harder than others, but slowing down had done wonders for their relationship, bringing them closer together.

It was now Christmas Eve, and all four members of the household were living the cliché- watching "It's a Wonderful Life".

Everyone looked up as a loud knock sounded on the door.

"Who could that be?" Giles asked, almost to himself, as he got up to answer it.

No one could see the front door from their positions in the living room, but everyone froze when they heard Giles speak. "Hello, Officer, how can I help you?"

"Sorry, to bother you, Sir, but is Buffy Summers living here?"

Spike's arms tightened around Buffy's waist as she sat up a little bit straighter.

"Buffy," Giles said from the entranceway. "Could you come here for a moment?"

Spike and Jenny followed closely behind, both worried about the young girl.

Buffy stepped forward, shaking the officer's hand before wrapping her arms around her body.

"Miss Summers, my name is Robin Wood, I'm with the Sunnydale PD. Could I speak to you in private?"

"It's okay, Officer," Buffy said with a nod. "These people are my family, you can talk to me in front of them."

She felt Spike's hand reach for hers and give it a light squeeze.

"Alright then," Officer Wood continued. "I'm sorry to bother you on Christmas Eve, but it's about your father."

Buffy's body tensed as she waited.

"He's been arrested."

Buffy felt her shoulders sag. She wasn't sure what her feelings were as she stared at the floor. A part of her had been scared that her only living relative was gone. Another part felt that Hank was going to use the police to get her to come back to the mansion without too much of a fight. Hearing he was arrested was almost a relief.

"Why?" Buffy asked softly, raising her eyes to the policeman's.

"Numerous charges," Officer Wood replied. "Tax evasion, fraud…statutory rape."

Buffy's eyes widened as her mouth dropped open. "Excuse me?"

"Your father was in a relationship with a seventeen year old. He claims he didn't know her true age, but her parents found out and are now pressing charges. We've been watching him for a while, and when her parents came forth, we decided it was time to bring up the charges we already had."

Buffy concentrated on her breathing as the man began to back to the door. "I'm sorry, again. But since you're his daughter, we thought you should know. Normally, we'd send someone from social services since you're a minor, but these are…unique circumstances. Your father said you've been staying with friends for a few months."

"Buffy's more than welcome to stay here indefinitely," Giles spoke up, deciding to not offer the information that this was already the arrangement.

"I'm almost eighteen," Buffy said with a hopeful expression. "I'll be willing to talk to someone, but they won't…try and take me away, will they?"

"No," Wood said with a friendly smile. "You obviously have friends who care about you a great deal and want to take care of you, so as long as you're in a safe place, they'll probably just do a routine interview."

"Thank you, Officer," Jenny said as she and Giles walked him to the door.

"Merry Christmas," he said with a smile.

"Merry Christmas to you, as well," Giles replied.

Buffy stood still as Spike gently tugged on her hand. "Do you want to go get some sleep, luv?" he asked quietly.

Buffy nodded, saying goodnight to Jenny and Giles before slowly walking up the stairs. Spike followed closely behind her, keeping their hands locked together as she led him to his room, not even questioning where she was going anymore.

"Are you going to be okay?" Spike asked, closing the door behind them before turning to face Buffy as she sat down on the bed.

"I'll be fine," Buffy said in a soft voice. "For a second, I…I thought…"

"That something bad had happened?"

Buffy nodded, looking at the floor as Spike moved to sit next to her. "Did it remind you of your mom?" he asked quietly, watching as Buffy's eyes snapped up to his.

"What do you mean?" Buffy asked nervously.

"Well…a cop shows up at your door…I'm just assuming that's how it happened. Am I wrong?"

"Yeah," Buffy said softly. "It didn't exactly happen that way."

"Do you want to tell me?" he asked quietly.

Buffy took a deep breath, tears shimmering in her eyes. "I was driving," she said in a barely audible whisper.

Spike stayed quiet, tilting his head to watch her as she continued. "Mom, she…she had a headache and wanted me to drive. I never..."

Buffy trailed off with a sob as Spike wrapped his arms around her.

"I never saw the other car," she said in a choked voice.

"Buffy, it wasn't your fault," Spike whispered.

"How do you know that?" Buffy asked, pulling away to look into Spike's eyes.

"Was it?" he asked with a raised eyebrow.

Buffy closed her eyes as she shook her head. "It was a drunk driver, but if…if I had only done something better. If I had just gone around that curve ten seconds earlier…she would still be here."

Spike felt the different emotions coursing through him and chose his next words carefully.

"Buffy…I hate that you had to go through that…that you're still having to go through it. But you got one good thing out of it."

Buffy looked at him as he gave her a lazy smile. "What's that?"

"Me," he said, his smile broadening.

Buffy felt her own smile escape as Spike reached over to wipe her tears away. Still smiling, she looked into his cobalt eyes and felt herself falling even more in love with him. "Thank you," she whispered.

---

Spike pressed his lips to Buffy's, swallowing her scream as he thrust into her, letting her muscles contract around him as he fell over the edge with her.

The two had been talking for hours before Buffy had moved to straddle his lap, not giving him a chance to protest before he'd been inside of her.

Spike gasped for air as he rolled away, pulling Buffy with him. "I thought we were going to wait," he said breathlessly.

"Yeah," Buffy said, trying to catch her own breath. "It was just too much tonight. I just had to have you…sorry."

Holding her close as she ran her hand over his chest, Spike let his own hand trail along her arm. "Don't ever apologize after you do that," Spike said with a smile, kissing the top of her head. "Feel free to pounce on me any time you want."

---

Epilogue - 5 Years Later

Spike held Buffy's hand as they walked into the crowded country club. It was their five-year reunion, and both were looking forward to it and dreading it at the same time.

"You ready for this, luv?" Spike whispered to her.

Buffy looked around the over-decorated room and nodded. "Ready as I'll ever be," she murmured as they walked into the room, hand in hand.

"Buffy!"

Buffy turned and smiled when she saw Willow running toward her, dragging Oz with her. Buffy gasped when she saw her, quickly wrapping her friend in a hug before pulling away and holding her at arms length.

"Wills, I haven't seen you in two months, and you're already about to pop," Buffy said excitedly as she ran her hand over her friend's swollen stomach. "There's still only one in there, right?" she asked as she and Willow laughed.

"I don't know. As much as she kicks, I'm thinking there's three or four," Willow replied.

Spike gave Oz a sympathetic look as Buffy came back to his side. He wrapped an arm around her, pulling her close to him, almost protectively, as they continued their conversation with their friends.

"Blondie Bear? Oh my God, it is you!"

Spike groaned as Buffy giggled, burying her face in his chest. Slowly turning, he took a deep breath as he faced the woman running toward him. "How've you been, Harm?" he asked in a bored tone.

"I'm great, I can't believe you're here, and…oh, you're with her," she commented, sending a pointed look in Buffy's direction.

"It's been a long time, Harmony," Buffy said with a fake smile, holding out her left hand, making sure that the other woman saw the huge diamond on her ring finger as they shook hands.

"So," Harmony said in a snooty tone. "You two are engaged."

"Oh no," Buffy said with a bright smile that only got bigger at Harmony's excited look. "We're married."

The other woman immediately dropped Buffy's hand with a huff as Willow spoke up. "Yeah, they're still newlyweds. You didn't know? They got married two months ago on the beach…it was so romantic."

Buffy and Spike both got the urge to kiss Willow as Harmony turned and walked away.

"Thanks, Wills," Buffy said with a smile.

Spike brushed a kiss along Buffy's temple, bending low to whisper in her ear. "I never did thank you for setting me free of that airhead, did I?"

Buffy laughed, pulling her husband onto the dance floor as a slow song started.

"So," Spike said, looking down at the woman he loved. "Are you happy?"

Buffy thought of the events that transpired over the past few years. From her father being arrested to graduating, to Spike's proposal at their college graduation. Both had decided on a simple wedding on the beach at sunset.

Willow, Oz, Angel, Darla, Xander and his wife Anya, newlyweds Gunn and Fred, and of course Jenny and Giles had all attended. Giles had nearly cried when Buffy asked him to give her away. And he did cry when he walked Buffy down the long white runner and gave her hand to his son. She had worn a simple, elegant ivory dress with spaghetti straps, carrying a bouquet of daisies. Spike had gone for comfort, wearing khakis and a white shirt, grateful that he didn't have to wear a tux like he did for their prom. The day they got married had been the happiest day of their lives.

They still lived in Sunnydale, close to his parents, and everyone made an effort to get together at least once a week. Spike still whined and complained about having to go home so often, but Buffy knew he secretly loved spending time with his parents.

Now, as they swayed to the music, Buffy looked into the eyes of the man she was falling in love with more every day. "Yes," she finally responded. "I'm very happy."

 

The End

Note: Thank you to everyone who read, e-mailed, reviewed, offered support, and stuck with me! This was a fun story to write and I'm happy so many people enjoyed it. I normally have two WIP's at once, and with Remember When ending soon, I will only have Desire and Deception. I'm going to focus a lot of my energy on that one for a while, but I should have a new WIP shortly. I actually have three new ones on the horizon, but I need a little time to work on them, so keep an eye out for my next one! And as always, a big thank you to Allison for all of her support and help with this story!

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