Three years

PROPHECIES

A Spike/Xander romance

Based on the characters of Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Angel the Series

created by Joss Whedon

Soft Princess (Sofy)

Title : Prophecies

Author : Soft Princess (Sofy)

Pairing : Xander/Spike, and other pairings as well, but that would spoil the fun ! A/Wes, Gunn/F, B/Giles, Wil/O, D/C

Rating : NC-17, contains very explicit sex. Please, beware.

Spoilers : takes place after Double or Nothing (AtS) and Normal Again (BtVS) and contains slight spoilers for the rest of the season for both shows. So if you don’t want to be spoiled, don’t read.

Disclaimer : The characters, places and settings of both BtVS and AtS are not mine and I have no intentions of making money out of them. This is just for fun. The lyrics used in chapter nine are not mine either, they belong to their respective singers and composers.

Summary : Three years in the future, Xander needs to go to LA and he finds out that things aren’t the same. But not only for the LA gang.

Warning : Mention of character death. It’s a little angsty, especially at the beginning, but don’t worry, it gets better ! A lot better !

Dedication : this is a birthday gift for StarSwathi ! Happy anniversary sweetie ! I love you !-) I hope you love your prezzie !

Her recommendations were as follows :

1. Spike/Xander romance story, they have to be together forever somehow;

2. Lots of hot sex, with chocolate sauce;

3. One of the guys wearing a black thong and doing a strip show (not necessarily the same one);

4. One, or both, of the guys saying : I love Swathi.

Prologue : the ride

Three years. Today, on this date, three years have passed since I left Anya at the altar. Three years. Almost four since Buffy died and was brought back ; a little less than three since Tara died and Willow went nuts ; two and a half years since the Buffster and G-man got together ; one since they got married. Buffy’s now pregnant. I can’t believe it. Well, when I look at her and see her round belly I can, but other than that, when I’m not looking, it still feels like when we were in our senior year. Only Cordelia and Oz are missing. Yeah, even Wesley’s there. He left LA after the Connor incident. He came back in Sunnydale and asked us to help him. At first, we weren’t really happy to see him, but he quickly showed us he was worthy of our help. He calmed Willow and got her out of trouble ; we all owed him a great deal after that.

We’re on the highway now. What am I doing on the freeway, you’re asking ? Well, when I look at Wesley, sleeping in the passenger seat, I’m asking myself the same question. He found a prophecy. Yeah, another one ! I just can’t help it ! I hate prophecies !

He hasn’t seen any of his ‘friends’ from Angel Investigations since the last prophecy. We heard that Connor came back, all grown up, and killed Sahjhan, but Wesley wouldn’t go back. He can’t forget the hurt on the faces of his friends when he betrayed them. If I was in his place, I wouldn’t be able to either. We accepted him, but we all still thought he shouldn’t have done it. I understand why he did though. If something was threatening any of my friends, I wouldn’t think twice before trying to take it away. I guess that’s why I befriended him faster then the others. I could relate.

So, we’re on the highway, heading to LA, with this prophecy and a good deal of optimism, ‘cause we’re not even sure that any of them will listen to us. For sure, they won’t listen to Wes, he can’t talk.

After Justine cut his throat, he never regained his voice. He learned sign language, but he can’t use it much ‘cause none of us learned it. I know some signs, but not that many. I can understand him, so does Giles. That’s why I’m going with Wesley. I’ll be the interpreter. I’ll tell them what he’s there to say. And I’ll back him up if *anyone* tries to harm him.

We’ve been on the road for a hour and a half. He’s been sleeping for most of the time. I really don’t know how he can sleep. He’s going to face his worst nightmare and he still can get some sleep. Maybe he isn’t really sleeping, maybe he’s just faking it.

“Hey, Wes. Are you asleep ?”

He turns his head and looks at me. He looks completely lost.

“Sorry. I was thinking and I really thought you were sleeping. I should have known better. Do you need me to do some non-serious talking ?” He shakes his head.

“All right, then go back to brooding and I’ll do the same.” He looks at me and tries to smile, but it fades fast. He’s thinking about his ‘friends’ and how they’ll react to seeing him. I hope they will keep their comments to a minimum, ‘cause the guy is still very unsure of himself. And I hate that. He deserves much more.

In the last three years, we’ve become quite good friends and we confided in each other. He was the first one I told about my… well, my change of interest. I’ve been attracted to men for a while now, but I never admitted it to anyone, not even myself ! When Wesley came around, he stayed with me in the apartment, ‘cause I was the only one with enough room to put him up, Buffy had enough problems with Dawn and Willow that we didn’t want to put this on her shoulders. At least the G-man was there to help her.

So, Wesley stayed with me and we talked… or, I talked and he listened. I told him everything after a drinking session. I told him about my fears, my anger, my loves, and most importantly, about Spike. How, when I looked at him, I could melt. How I hid this under insults and anger. How I would never want him to know it. That’s when he told… er, wrote me about Angel. He loved the man. Not just love, he was in love with him.

That was quite a shock. I always hated Angel, so when Wesley told me that I thought he was crazy. But then Wes told me about how he was in LA, how he was so cute with Connor and always smiling and joking. And I kind of understood him. What wasn’t there to love in a man who could be such a good father ? But then there was this awful, false prophecy. Have I said how much I hate prophecies ? I’m sure I have, but I still need to say it. The only things they bring are anger and sorrow.

Chapter one : the confrontation

We’re finally there. It’s getting dark. The hotel is huge. I’ve never been here before and I can’t help but be impressed.

I grab Wesley’s book and look at him. He’s out of the car and looking at the hotel door like he’s afraid of what is behind it. Well, he probably is. He also looks like he’s finally come where he belongs. He’s happy to see the place again. Even if it might mean that he’ll be rejected again.

“You want me to go first ?”

He looks at me and shakes his head. No, he wants us to go in together. He’s not going to hide.

“Ok, better get in then.” I grab his arm and we walk together. We open the door and are greeted by two crossbows aimed at us.

“Whoa guys ! I know you don’t really like me, or him for that matter, but please put the crossbows down. We come in peace.” I say, trying to act as nonchalant as I can.

“What are you doing here Xander ?” I look where the voice comes from and find Cordelia staring back at me, with one of the crossbows.

“Well, Cordy, it’s nice to see you again ! How are you ?” I smile.

“Good, good. You ?” She finally lowers her weapon. “Fred, you can drop the crossbow, they’re not here to attack us.”

“How can you be sure they’re not vamps ?” The other girl replies and I feel a shudder in Wes’s body. So that’s THE girl.

“Well, Fred, if me and Wes here were vamps, we really wouldn’t be here with a book and having driven from Sunnydale *in the sun*.” She looks at me then at Wes, and I see their eyes lock, then she lowers the crossbow.

“I guess you’re bringing bad news ?” Cordelia asks, not taking her eyes away from us. Good, she doesn’t trust us.

“Yes. How did you guess ?”

“I really can’t think of a reason why HE would come back here, except if it’s bad.” I shudder.

“Just try and keep your commentary on Wes’s behaviour for when we’re not here.”

“I think he can pretty well take care of himself. Why are you defending him ?” I turn around to see Angel at the top of the stairs, looking down at us, his face showing signs of anger.

“Well, well, if it’s not deadboy ! I’m sorry, but he can’t talk, so I do the talking for the both of us, thank you. And that means I get to defend him when I say so !”

“He can’t talk ?” That’s Fred.

“No. But he still researches. That’s why we’re here. We’ve come to save your butts, so if you want us to get on with the story, drop the glares and let us talk.”

“Save our butts ! You do that pretty well now don’t you Wes ?”

I look to see him dropping his eyes and looking at floor. I put my hand on his shoulder and turn back to Angel, but before I can say anything, a young man appears from behind us.

“Dad ! Shut up !” Wes looks up and turns, his eyes wide.

“Connor !” Angel yells, outraged.

“No, you listen to me for once. They say they’re here to save our butts and I’m willing to listen to them. Now, you either listen or leave, I don’t care.”

Connor looks at Wesley and smiles.

“Welcome. I’m glad to finally meet you.” Wes nods and smiles back. His eyes are lighting up like I have never seen before. I guess earning this kind of welcome from the one whose life you’re supposed to have ruined is kind of breathtaking.

“Connor…” Arrrg, I hate Deadboy.

“Dad, if you want me to hold a grudge against the guy who has saved my life, and yours, for that matter, even by sending me to another dimension with a crazy vengeful guy, I won’t. Not if he’s here to do it again.” He turns to Wes and me. “Come on, we’ll go into the office, they can join us if they want, if not they can just leave.”

I give him my brightest smile. “Thanks.”

“No prob. They are a stubborn bunch. So you’re Xander. Nice to finally meet you.” I look at him as we walk towards the office. He looks a lot like Angel. Black hair, broad shoulders, but he has blue eyes. They remind me of… Not going there ! He is kinda good looking.

“Nice meeting you too. So how do you live with deadboy for a father ? He doesn’t bite too much ?”

“No, he doesn’t bite at all ! He’s just a little overprotective of his family, that’s all. He doesn’t like to see any of us hurt.”

“You’ve got that right Connor.” Oh, now there’s a green guy with us.

“Hey Lorne.” Wes turns around and looks at the green guy. His eyes turn teary and he hides his face in his hands.

“Hey, Con.” Lorne turns towards Wes and walks up to him. He takes Wes’ hands in his and looks in his eyes.

“Hey Wes. Nice to see you again. How have you been doing ?” Wes looks puzzled. Then tries to tell him he’s alright, but the green guy doesn’t understand sign language.

“What ?”

“He’s saying that he’s fine. He can’t believe you’re talking to him though.” I translate for him.

“You know sign language Xander ?” Cordelia asks.

“Yeah, Wes taught me. Well, I’m not fluent in it but I can understand most of what he wants to say.” By that time, we were all in the office, except for Angel, who was looking from the doorway.

“Well, Pumpkin, I can’t say I would have talked to you three years ago, but time passes and I missed you.” Wes looks shocked for a moment, than he smiles and nods.

“It looks like he missed you too !” I say and Lorne laughs and hugs Wes.

“Now pumpkin, on with the bad news. We’ll have plenty of time to talk later.”

Chapter two : the talk

Wesley takes the book from me and starts showing them the translation of the texts and the notes he made. He doesn’t need me for now, so I back up until I’m standing by Angel’s side. He doesn’t look as angry as he was before. He looks at me, than back at the rest of them.

“Hey Angel, bro, what’s happenin’ ?” I turn to see a black man come in the lobby. Must be Gunn.

“Wesley’s back with bad news. He’s showing the gang right now.”

“Oh. And ? That’s ok ?”

“I guess. Connor told me to shut up and let him talk. So I did. You might want to go in there and listen. I don’t really want to. But I trust you and the others to tell me everything.” I get the undertone comment. He doesn’t trust Wes. Not a problem. He’ll get back there. It won’t be long.

“By the way, I don’t think Deadboy’ll do the introductions. I’m Xander.”

“Oh, Cordy’s ex.” That’s it ! I hate being known only as somebody’s ex !

“Yeah. That’s me.”

“Good to meet you. I’ll go in and make sure there are no problems.”

Angel nods at him and motions for me to follow him. I don’t know why, but I do. He leads me to the kitchen where he offers me a drink and pours himself some blood that he drinks cold.

“You know, you should heat this up. I guess it’s not really tasty when it’s cold.” He looks at me like I’m crazy.

“Well, that’s kind of the whole idea. I don’t want to…”

“Oh, I get it… part of your *punishment* ?” He looks at me. Yes. I’ve never seen Spike drink cold blood, but I can guess it’s the worst thing. At least for a vampire.

“You know Xander. I know sign language.” Oh, he’s changing the subject. “And he said nothing about being surprised at Lorne talking to him.”

I look at Angel, surprised. “You know ?” He nods.

“Well, he might have said nothing with his hands, but his face said it all.” I glare at Angel, daring him to deny it. “And we have become very good friends in the last three years. I know him.”

Angel nods. A long, nervous silence follows.

“So, how are things in Sunnydale ?”

I tell him about Willow, and Buffy and Giles, and the baby. He looks shocked, but says nothing. Wow, Deadboy really has learned self-control ! I was sure he was going to burst from jealousy.

“Dawn is off to college in Illinois. She’s in pre-med there. Who would’ve thought ?” I smile dreamily, everyone was so proud of her. Especially Spike.

“Spike followed her there. He thinks no one knows, but we all do. Dawn’s not blind, she knows he looks out for her all the time.”

“It’s good for him. To have someone to care about…”

“Yeah.” I just wish it could be me.

Chapter three : the arrivals

Suddenly, all the lights flicker and Angel leaps up, grabs a sword and rushes back into the lobby, where he is met by the rest of the crew, bearing crossbows and other weapons. I look at Wes and he shakes his head. He doesn’t know what’s happening either.

A second later the door opens and Buffy, Giles and Willow enter the lobby, to be greeted by the crossbows, in similar gesture to what Wes and I experienced.

“Er… Great a welcome party !” Buffy said clearly shocked by the LA gang’s attitude. I must say that I really don’t know what has gotten into them, but it must be bad, because they would not act like this usually. And I know Wes is thinking the same.

“Don’t worry, Buffster. They did the same thing to us.” She looks at me and then at Angel. They all lower their weapons. “What are you doing here anyway ?” I ask, stating everybody’s question.

“We really don’t know actual…”

“Buffy ! You’re pregnant !” Wow, way to go Cordy, you stated the obvious. Buffy smiles her big bright proud-mom-to-be smile and looks at the ex-cheerleader.

“Yes… Isn’t it great ?”

“Well yes, but who’s the father ?” I watch as Giles turns around smiling. He is proud too.

“Well…” Buffy said showing her left hand. “The father is my husband, and he is standing behind me, probably smiling so much his face will crack…” I laugh out loud at that statement, because Buffy’s absolutely right.

“GILES ? Wow, I never imagined that !” Cordelia is clearly shocked, and I’m sure she’s asking herself why we never told them or why they didn’t invite them to the wedding.

Buffy’s smile grows wider, something I didn’t think was even possible, and she takes Giles’ hand. “Yes. Now, can you please let us come in and settle down ?”

“You can come in. But why are you here ?” Angel looks like he’s about to burst. They haven’t heard of any of us in the last three years, so it’s probably disturbing to have everyone drop in at the same time.

“We don’t know really.” Giles answers. “We were… drawn here… I guess. As if we needed to be here.”

Wes taps my shoulder and I turn to look at him. He gestures the answer to me.

“Er. Guys ? Wesley thinks it has something to do with the prophecy he found. I don’t know the words he used though.” Wesley looks at me desperately and tries to explain to me what he means.

“It’s a mystical convergence.” Angel says. Wesley looks at him stunned and nods. He then starts gesturing desperately, asking Angel how he knew. “I know sign language.” He turns to us. “He knows it has something to do with the prophecy and he wouldn’t be surprised if Spike and Dawn came through that door…” The lights flicker. “Now.” I look at Wes and see him mouthing ‘wards’ to himself.

I see all the others take their weapons, but they don’t move. I guess they understood that not all the ones that come through the door are evil. The door opens, again, and Dawn and Spike come in.

“Well, well… what do we have here ? You’re having a party without us ? Can someone please tell us what the bloody hell we’re doing here ?” That’s clearly Spike. He looks so good like this. He’s standing there, in all his glory. Damn it, Xander, stop thinking like that.

“Hey, hey, if it’s not the bleached wonder ! How’s the stalking these days ?” Way to go, hide your feelings. You really don’t want him to know he looks positively gorgeous right now, do you ?

“Whelp, if you don’t have the answer to the question, don’t speak.” Spike is back. I can’t help but feel happy inside. But just inside. He doesn’t need to know.

“An’ ‘m not stalking.” He continues.

“Are.” Dawn grins at Spike.

“Am not.”

“Please, Dawn, Spike, I’m glad to see you. But stop arguing over nothing.” Thanks to Giles they look at us and wait. “And Spike, like it or not, we know you’re taking care of Dawn. You can call it stalking or whatever you want. Just don’t deny it. As for the answer to why you’re here, and us too, for that matter, Wesley was about to tell us when you both came in.”

I turn around and look at Wes. He smiles at me and I understand. He knows I’m happy to see Spike. Just as much as I know he was happy to see Angel. No matter what it means.

“So, what do you say we start this all over again ?” He nods and starts to gesture towards Angel. The souled vampire seems to concentrate hard to understand the signs. Probably also to let go of the anger for a moment.

“Maybe we should go on with the introductions while these two are ‘talking’.” Buffy looks around. They introduce themselves, then Cordy offers coffee, and everyone starts chatting. Anger all forgotten. I never thought it would go that fast, but I’m happy, especially since Spike comes to sit down right next to me.

“So, whelp, how’s life ?”

“Good, pretty good right now. You ?” That’s it Harris, just tell him he’s the reason life is so good. I’m sure that I’m blushing. I can is the heat on my cheeks.

“Yeah.” He answers, his eyes never leaving mine. “The Nibblet’s got friends there. They’re nice. I don’t know them personally, ‘cause I’m only stalkin’.”

“There, you admitted it ! It wasn’t so hard, now, was it ?” I ask smiling.

“No. But you all knew. Thought you didn’t.”

“You don’t want us to know you take care of her ? Why ? We always did you know.”

“Now, I do pet. Now I do.” He turns around and looks at Dawn. He’s still feeling like he needs to protect her, even when we’re all around.

“Ok guys. I think I can tell you what’s going on now.” Angel comes back in the lobby, Wes in tow when the lights flicker again. “Damn ! Who can it be this time ?” They all get their weapons and take their place, shoving us to the back of the room.

We wait nervously. No one talks. I think we’re all a bit nervous about everything. It’s so confusing. Everyone being drawn to LA like this, without even knowing why. We’ve seen so many things, but still, there are some that confuse us, even scare us.

Someone pulls me against his chest. Cold, hard chest. I turn around and realise it’s Spike. He looks into my eyes and… I think I must be dreaming. He looks concerned. For me.

“Don’t want you to be in the line of fire pet. Don’t move. Could be evil there.” I’m speechless. This really must be a dream. I would never have thought he would really care for me.

“Spike, since when do you care what happens to me ?”

“Dunno. Don’t want you to get hurt. Dawn’d be pissed if you do.” Yeah. That’s it Bleached Menace. Do everything for Dawnie.

Finally, the door opens and a young guy, with red hair come in the lobby, looking around.

“Hey, Angel ? Cordelia ? Green guy ? You really don’t wanna kill me.” Everyone stands where they are, mouths agape. Willow is the first to move. She walks slowly towards him.

“Oz ?” She asks warily.

“Hey, Willow.”

“What are you doing here ?”

“I don’t know. Probably the same thing you all are.”

“Well… er, I imagine you were… er, drawn here then. Just like all of us.”

“Oh. That must be it. And hi Giles. Buffy. Cordelia. Xander. Angel. Wesley. SPIKE ?”

“Er. Hello mate.” Oz looks at the vampire and nods. He understands already. The others introduce themselves to the werewolf and finally, we are back to were we were before he came in.

“Before we begin. Wesley, do you think there will be any other people coming through that door ?” Wes drops his gaze and counts on his fingers.

“It seems that everyone that are drawn here have been a member of our group at one time or another.” Buffy says, looking around. “Was there anyone in your group that left at any time ?” She looks at Cordy and Angel. They look at each other and shake their heads, dropping their gazes. I think they must be thinking about that guy, Doyle, that died, and about Wesley. But they say nothing. That’s when Wes’s face light up and he looks at all of us. He mouths the name.

“Faith.” Angel states, even though everyone knows.

“I’ll call the prison. She should still be there…” He hurries to the phone and dials. I look around and realise Spike hasn’t left my side at all. He is still there, like a bodyguard. As soon as this circus is finished, I’m going to have a talk with him… Maybe he does care. Maybe he even loves me. Xander, shut up. You’re going to be all hopeful and then he’ll tell you he hates you and you’ll be all sad and… Stop with the idiocy. Get your act together.

Chapter four : the prophecy

Angel comes back. “She’s still in. She feels like she should be here, but it doesn't seem to be as strong as what you’re all experiencing. I mean, if Spike and Dawn drove from Illinois and Oz from wherever he was, she would surely be able to escape… you all know her… but she doesn’t feel that urge. So I guess it’s safe to say she’ll be staying there.”

“Yes, er, quite.” Giles takes off his glasses and cleans them. He turns to Buffy and makes sure she’s all right, then he turns back at Angel, who was watching them, as we all were. “Why did you put this… er, ward around this place ?”

“We’ve been attacked, often.” Replies Connor, not even giving his father a chance to say a word. “Wolfram and Hart.” He adds looking at Wes, who nods. “Since I came back, they’ve been after us full time. They won’t leave us alone, sending all kinds of demons and humans to take us out. They want to make me into a laboratory experiment.”

Wes bend his head. He’s thinking about the past. He shouldn’t.

“Ok. So you put these ‘wards’ up so you'll know when they’re near, but that means you’re always on your guard, whenever someone makes the lights flicker.” Spike looks at me, impressed.

“Cor, pet, you've got a brain !”

“You noticed ! I’m not that dumb you know. And staying with Wes for three years can give a brain to anything, even me !” I smile at Wes and he smiles back. Spike stiffens beside me. I wonder why ?

“So what’s the deal with this prophecy ?” Gunn asks, looking at Angel.

“I think we all should sit down.” He pushes us towards the lobby’s seats. Some of us have to get chairs from the office, but in the end, we’re all set.

“First, let me say this. I’m happy to see all of you. Even you Wes. I was angry at first, but I think Connor was right earlier and I owe you an apology. I’m not saying I completely forgive you, but at least I don’t wanna kill you anymore. I think it’s a start.” He smiles and I look at Wes. He’s trying to hide his tears. He mouths ‘thank you’.

Angel nods and continue. “Buffy, Giles, I wish you all the happiness you two can find. You belong together. It’ll be hard, but I’ll get over it.” He smiles at them.

“That being said, we should get straight to the subject. The prophecy Wesley found is about a mystical convergence. Something that will bring us all together, so that we can deal with our problems and face them. Each of us is here for a reason. Each of us has a role in this fight, and a partner. It says that the five warriors, the Avenger, the Knight, the Loyal, the Brave and the Witch,” Saying this he points at himself, then looks at Spike, Gunn, Buffy and Willow. “will be lead by the Miracle Child and the Child of Light.” He adds, looking at Connor then at Dawn.

Dawn rolls her eyes and waves her arms in the air. “I hate this ! Will I have to bleed again ?” She looks ready to burst. Connor takes her in his arms and tries to calm her. Well, I never thought about this, Connor and Dawnie. It makes sense. They both shouldn’t be here, so I guess they could understand each other.

“What about the rest of us ?”

“Well, each one of the warriors has a partner. Dawn is Connor’s. Then it says : the Witch will befriend the Wolf, the Loyal will love the Lost one… that must be Fred, we think… the Brave will mate with her Guardian… no real news here… the Avenger will forgive the Sage, and the Knight needs the Heart.” He looks at me.

“Er… I’m the Heart ?” Angel nods. “You’re sure ?” He nods again. I sigh. Perfect. Just perfect.

“What pet ? Don’t wanna be my partner ?” I look at him and… I can’t help but smile.

“No, it’s all right. What about Cordy and the green guy ?”

“The green guy has a name, Xander.”

I drop my eyes. “Sorry, I forgot. What is it again ?”

“It’s Lorne. And he has a place, so does Cordy. They will help us with their gifts. The Seer and the Voice will know and they will guide the warriors and their partners through the dangers of life.”

“So what’s the demon we have to fight ? How do we kill it ?” Always the same old Buffy.

“Well, there isn’t really a demon Buffy. The danger is our dissension. We can’t be separated. We need to stay united, so that we can face the next demons, and possibly the apocalypse.” While he is talking, he keeps looking at Wesley to be sure he gets it right. “It doesn’t say there is one that is coming now or soon, but that we need to be prepared for when it does come. And that preparation means training for the warriors and” He looks at the floor. “forgiveness. I guess I’ll have some trouble with that, as I know many of you can’t forgive me.” He looks at Giles and both keep their eyes locked. “I believe it’s why they brought us all together. So that we can help the others get through their problems.”

I look around and see everybody deep in thought. Buffy is holding Giles' hand and he has his arm around her shoulder. Willow is standing besides Oz and they both are smiling at each other. Wesley is now at Angel’s side and he has his right hand on his shoulder. Dawn is still in Connor’s arms, and she doesn’t look like she wants to get out of there anytime soon. I guess it’s nice for her to find someone that she can relate too, someone who grew up too fast, who isn’t a natural being. I hope it works out. Then I look at my ‘partner’, he is looking at me with a questioning look. If I didn’t know him, I would have thought he was scared I’d reject him. Well, the more I look into his beautiful blue eyes, the more I think I might not know him as well as I thought. He really looks scared.

I take his hand and smile. He smiles back and squeeze a little. We really need to talk !

Angel looks at all of us and when his gaze lands on Wesley, he becomes unreadable. There are so many conflicting emotions on his face. I see anger, happiness, disappointment, but most of all, I’m sure I caught a glimpse of love. Well, if deadboy’s in love with Wesley, then let them kiss and make up. They say make-up sex is the best way to settle an argument. Well, in this case I wouldn’t recommend sex, but maybe a kiss would be a big step in the right direction.

“Er, guys, I’m having a vision.” We all turn to look at Cordelia, and our mouths drop open. She is floating in mid-air ! Well, the LA gang doesn’t seem so impressed, but we are.

“Where is it Cordy ?” Angel seems concerned.

“It’s not anybody in danger, just wait a sec.” Angel nods. “Ok, it was just a message the Powers That Be sent for you. You are not to worry about anything related to happiness. And they are impressed that we already settled who was who. They thought we’d take much more time to figure it out.” Ah, they seem to like joking around.

Angel smiles at Wesley. Yes, he is really good at charades ! “Well, be sure to thank them next time they call !” Wow, deadboy’s got a sense of humour ! “Everyone is tired. I suggest we all go to sleep and talk more in the morning. There are enough rooms in here that you can all take one. Just make yourself at home.” Everyone nods and they begin leaving the lobby in pairs, even Cordy and Lorne. Wesley alone leaves without his partner. Angel turns towards Spike, who hasn’t moved. “I’m going to get blood. You want some ?”

“Sure.” He lets go of my hand and starts following the souled vampire.

Suddenly, he stops and turns around. “Can you find a room for me Nummy ? Near yours.” I can’t believe this. He called me Nummy. I love this name… and I’m blushing.

“Er… Sure Spike.” And I leave them to their lunch.

Chapter five : midnight talk

“Hey Xander !”

“Dawn. Hey.”

“Connor told me there are two bedrooms on the third floor that would be perfect for you and Spike. Lets go check them out.” I follow her, happy to see her smile. I missed it. All the time she was off at college, I missed her smile and her laugh and her teenager’s craziness. Well I guess everyone has to grow up.

The rooms are perfect. I thank Dawn and Connor. It’s amazing how some people grow close really rapidly. They’ve known each other for only a few hours and yet they can’t seem to be able to walk away from each other. I talk a bit with the Dawnster about her life in Illinois, about school. Then I leave to go tell Spike I found the perfect place.

He is still in the kitchen, talking, civilly, with Angel. I never thought I’d see that happen. I stop just behind the door, what they are saying catching my attention.

“You love him.” Angel states.

“What do you think Poof ?”

“I think you’re in love with him.”

“I’m as much in love with the whelp as you are with YOUR partner peaches.”

“That means you’re completely in love with him Spike. That you’re so in love with him you can even forget…” He stops.

“I know, peaches, I know.”

“You need to tell him Will.”

“Can’t, Sire. Can’t.”

Wow, just by calling him Will, Angel got him subdued. I guess it’s a vampire thing. But… since when is Angel Spike’s sire ? Isn’t it suppose to be Dru ? And Spike LOVES me ? I think I’m dreaming the whole thing.

“S’why I left. Well, not the only reason, but part of it. When I’m around him, I…”

“You melt and nothing matters more than his safety…”

“Yeah.”

“It’s the same thing for me Will. When I’m around Wes, I can forget everything. Everything but him. And that’s the problem, because my demon is raging. He wants Wes’ head as much as the soul wants his heart. This is tearing me apart. I know I shouldn’t forget so fast, but something else is telling me that this is exactly how it’s suppose to happen. Three years have passed and I need to let go. Just as he needs to let go too. But Angelus doesn’t want to let go. The only thing I want is to take Wes in my arms and kiss him, but the demon is too strong, it’s holding me back.”

“Well, I hope you get your answers Peaches.”

“And I hope you realise that by telling him you might bring more light into your darkness Will. I never really liked Xander, but he’s a good guy. He has shown that many times, and he likes you.”

“He’s as straight as an arrow Peaches. And I’m a man.” Oh yes, you are !

“I don’t think he’s as straight as you think.” Got that right, Deadboy. A silence follows. Finally, I find my courage and I knock. I open the door and find them sitting face to face.

“Er. Spike, I just want to tell you we’re on the third floor. The two rooms at the right of the stairs.”

“All right pet. You need sleep. Get to bed.”

I laugh. “Yes mom !”

He looks back at me and smiles. “M’not your mum luv, better remember that.”

“Oh God no ! You really are not my mom ! This is a bad visual !” I take my head in my hands and shake it. Angel smiles. I think it’s the first time I've seen him smile, and I smile back. I don’t know why, but I don’t feel the urge to kill him anymore. It must be because of what I heard. He loves Wes. He needs help to control Angelus and it’s not by being angry at him and insulting him that I’ll help. If he thinks I don’t hate him anymore, he might feel better in control. Lets just hope…

I look at Spike and say “Thinking of you as my mom is really not what I want right now. I'd better go to bed. You two enjoy your dinner and don’t kill each other.”

“Sure pet. Good night.” Suddenly shy, I smile and turn around. I think I’ve fallen even more deeply for him now. He said he loved me, maybe not to me, but I heard it, and that is the best thing that could ever happen… and that’s why I fell again. Before, there was no way he could love me as much as I do him, but now that there might be a chance, I feel hopeful… Maybe he’ll take my hand again. Maybe he’ll hold me, maybe he’ll let me hold him, take care of him… Oh God, I want to caress him everywhere, kiss him… I want him. I’ve wanted him for a long time, but tonight there is a chance that he wants me back and that is why I’m hoping again.

I stay near the closed kitchen door for a few moments. After a some time, they begin to talk again.

“So Spike, is he straight you think ?”

“Maybe not Peaches… maybe not.”

“I think he really likes you. I would even bet he loves you.”

“…”

“William,” Angel says using his Sire voice. “don’t look at me like that. I tell you. This boy is in love with you. Just the way he looked at you told me.”

“Maybe you’re right Peaches… But what about you ?”

“Well… I don’t think Wes…”

I let them talk. I don’t think I need to hear more… Spike is in love with me and he knows I’m in love with him.

Chapter six : the dream

I climb the stairs back to the room I chose for myself and I climb into the bed, not even bothering to take my clothes off. I close my eyes and begin imagining him. Climbing the stairs two at once, opening the door of my room, because he doesn’t know which one is his, taking his clothes off… first his shirt, mmm he has such a beautiful chest… then he sits on the edge of the bed, takes his boots off, one by one. I want to touch his shoulder, to kiss his neck, but I resist the urge. There is no reason to scare him. He has scars on his back. I wonder who did that. Then he gets up and begin to take his pants off, as if he was doing a strip show, slowly, sensually. He doesn’t wear any underwear. Mmmmm, he is so beautiful. I feel myself get hard just by looking at him, all white skin, hard chest and perfect ass. I wanna touch him, but I don’t move. It’s just my imagination. If I move he’ll disappear. So I don’t. I stay on my stomach, not moving, trying to ease my breathing. He looks at the bed and slowly lies down. His head inches away from mine.

“You know, Nummy, you can stop staring at me like this.” What ??? I try to open my eyes, only to realise they were already open. It wasn't a dream. He is here, completely naked, his hand on my back, gently stroking. Oh. My. God. I blink. He is still there. I feel my cheeks turn red and turn around, embarrassed.

“Now, luv. Don’t be embarrassed. You liked the show didn’t you ?” Oh God yes. I turn back and look at him. His eyes are beautiful. So blue and penetrating. I’m drowning. I’m drowning so fast I don’t even realise it. His nose is now touching mine and I’m sure he can feel my breath on him. And I’m panting. I lick my lips and suddenly, I feel cold. My lips are surrounded by ice, burning ice. This feels so good.

Wait a second. Spike is KISSING me ! And he is making me feel like a puddle of goo. Then it stops. I moan.

“You all right luv ?”

“Oh. Yes. More.” I’m reduced to monosyllabic speech. That’s what he does to me.

“Sure.” Then, the coldness is back, but not only on my lips. He turns me on my side and his hands are all over my chest, and I feel the urge to take my shirt off, but I don’t want to leave his lips. He breaks the kiss just long enough to pull it over my head, then he’s back. For a moment, I’m only aware of the pleasure he brings me. The coldness of his hands and lips, that sends shivers through my spine. I have goosebumps all over me from the sensation. I never, ever felt this way with any girls, ever. It’s a fire burning me inside out. It starts from my lips and goes down right to my toes. I feel more alive than I have ever been. So that’s what love does to a guy.

Spike trails his hands down my stomach, then lower and lower. He gently caresses my hips, before unbuttoning my pants and lowering them. He quirks his eyebrow and looks at me. That’s when I remember that I’m wearing my black briefs. Very tight briefs. Shows everything kind of briefs. And I’m painfully hard.

“What ?”

“Thought you were the boxers type, is all.”

I laugh. “There are a lot of things you don’t know about me.”

“It’s time I made up for it, isn’t it ?” He says, bringing his face flush with mine.

“Oh yeah.” This time, I initiate the kiss. Passion. Lust. Love. It is all there. For a moment, nothing exist but his lips. Cold on warm. It’s all there is to know. I’m lost in the sensation. I don’t even realise it when he takes my pants and briefs off.

“Cor, you’re beautiful.” His voice brings me back. He is panting. I take his breath – even though he doesn’t have any – away. “You’re perfect.” No one ever told me that. No one ever told me I was beautiful and perfect. My heart melts again. I watch him, kneeling between my legs, looking at me and I feel a rush of lust come over me. I get on my knees and pull him in for a bruising kiss. There is no turning back.

Our tongues tangle for a long time. Spike has his right hand in my hair and his left one is on my ass, caressing it. Me, I’m stroking his back. Hard muscles, tight ass. So beautiful, so perfect. He’s like a Greek statue. Marble.

I break the kiss. Breathing hard. “Don’t forget to breathe luv.”

“Mmm” I mumble, breathless. I can’t get enough of his mouth. He gently licks my neck, this feels so good. I guess necks are kind of a kink for vampires. They can never get enough. His hands are all over me again. Slowly, he lays me on my back and starts nibbling his way down my body, taking his time on my nipples, then my navel… but he stops when he gets to my burning cock. He gives it a lick, then resume his light kisses on my thighs. I moan. I can’t stop moaning. He makes me feel things I never knew I could feel. He makes me burn.

I realise he’s pushing my legs up, until I’m almost bent in two. Oh God. He’s going to touch THERE. It’s the first time… the first time ANYONE has touched me THERE. Then I’m lost again. His fingers are gently teasing my entrance, drawing circles, then I feel his tongue, slowly licking and kissing.

“Cor you’re tight Nummy.”

I push myself up on my elbows and look at him. I think I’m a bit scared. I've never had sex with a man. I want this, but I don’t know what to expect or do.

He looks back at me. “You a virgin luv ?” He asks, concerned. I nod. I can’t speak.

“No need to be afraid.” He says, sensuously draping his body over mine. He kisses me tenderly. I never thought he could be so sweet. He’s gentle and caring and he tastes so good. I know I’ll never have enough of this taste.

“Promise I won’t hurt. We stop anytime you want luv.” His voice is hoarse with desire and I know he wants this. He wants me. He shifts and suddenly our pelvises are touching. I moan. “Feels good, doesn’t it ?”

What, he wants me to talk ? “Oh yeah.” Sounds more like a moan than an actual answer.

He rubs his groin on mine and for a few minutes, it’s all we do. We thrust against each, lost in the sensation again. But this time, he’s as lost as I am. I feel myself nearing climax and he stops. I groan.

“Don’t want this to end too soon, do you ?” I shake my head. “Good.” He gently pokes my side. “Turn over luv” I do as he says and turn to lay on my stomach.

His hands roam over my back. He’s giving me massage. I feel the tension go away. He has magical hands. I moan.

“Like that Nummy ?” I moan again. My voice isn’t working anymore. All my senses are too highly stimulated, it doesn’t leave any energy for my mouth to work. I can smell him all around me ; I feel him everywhere ; I can still taste him in my mouth ; my eyes are filled with the image of him ; I hear him, panting, moaning each time I do. I’m gone, completely. There is no way I can go back. All this is making me painfully hard and my cock aches with desire.

He gently strokes my ass and parts my cheeks. Slowly, reverently, he lays light kisses on my entrance. One of his hands leaves me and he’s looking for something. Then it’s back and I feel a slick finger carefully circling my hole. Lube. Slowly, Spike works his finger into me. First one, then two fingers. Three. This feels so good. He touches THAT place in me that sends sparks flying in my brain that I never knew existed. I’m sure I'm going to cum right here and now when he abruptly stops. “What ?” I groan frustrated.

“Shh pet. It gets better.” He is panting hard. This is making him crazy with desire, I feel it. He wants me as much as I want him. He turns me over again and places pillows under the small of my back. He presses my legs back up and I hold onto my knees. I’m breathless. This is what I’ve dreamed of for so long. He is going to fill me. Completely. I’m going to be part of him, just as much as he’ll be a part of me.

He places his hands on my thighs, gently stroking them. Then I feel the head of his cock at my entrance. “Oh. God.”

“You ok luv ?”

“Yes, yes. Don’t stop. Please.” I lick my lips and stare in his deep blue eyes. “I want you… in me. Now.” Moving like a cat, he brings his face to mine and kisses me, teasing my lower lip. That’s when I feel it. He’s entering me. Slowly, inch by inch, he works his way inside me, until I feel his pelvis against me. Then he stops, and I feel full. Complete. This is the best sensation ever. And I’m sure he feels it too.

He starts moving now. His pace is slow at first, he wants to make sure I’m ok, when he is, his thrusts gets faster and faster and we both move in harmony, moaning each other’s name loud, panting heavily. I’m lost, I can feel nothing else but him. Inside me, over me, IN me.

“You’re so tight, Xan, luv. Feel so good.”

I feel my balls tighten. I’m near. He reaches between our tangled bodies and begin to stroke my hard, painful member. And I explode, crying his name, spending my semen on our bellies. When I come back from the edge, he’s cum too, my inside are soaked with his cold seed and he lays on my stomach, panting.

Pause : the aftermath

Finally, he pulls out of me and lays beside me. For a few minutes, we stay like this, side by side, panting. My eyes are wide open. I never thought it could be THAT great. It was the best orgasm of my life. I turn on my side and look at him. His eyes are closed and he looks incredibly happy. I did this to him. Me, Xander Harris, made Spike, ex-quarter of the Scourge of Europe, formerly known as William the Bloody, happy. This is unbelievable. I’m the one who put that big wide grin on his face. I look at his chest and can’t resist the urge to place a kiss over his nonbeating heart. The place where is heartbeat should be. He puts his arms around and holds me tight to his chest.

“M’never letting you go luv. Ever.”

“That will be hard when you’ll leave to go back to Illinois with Dawn.

“M’not leaving you. B’sides, m’sure Nibblet won’t wanna leave again anyway.”

“Yes. Connor will be reason enough for her to stay… We talked a bit… about her life there…”

“What did she say ?”

“She told me she has a roommate, a normal girl. Swathi… something.”

“Ah… I love Swathi. Nice girl. She never seems to sleep though and she's a bit crazy. Dances around the room for nothin’ and watches crappy tv shows. Doesn’t even like Passions. But she’s nice. A good friend for Dawn for sure.”

“As long as she’s a friend of Dawn’s then I love Swathi too.” I put my head on his chest and lick his nipple. “Not as much as I love you though.” I yawn and close my eyes. It’s kinda weird to have my ear on somebody’s chest and not hear a heartbeat. But I like it.

“I love you too nummy.” He whispers in my ear. That’s all I need. I fall asleep.

Chapter seven : the morning after

I wake up to find Spike staring at me. Smiling. I love his smile.

“Morning.” I say, my voice hoarse with sleep. “Morning, luv. Had a good sleep ?”

“Mmmm, very good. It’s even better to wake up with you.”

He takes me in his arms and hugs me tight. “Love you Nummy. I’ll always be there when you’ll wake up.”

“I love you too Spike. I love you so much my heart could burst. And right now, it’s the best morning I ever had.” He seems a bit uncomfortable. I guess, being an evil soulless vampire, that this kind of speech can make him feel like this. But I do love him. Even if he doesn’t have a soul. He doesn’t need one. He has me.

“Then, we’ll make it even better.” I look at him and realise he’s up to something. “Stay here, luv. It won’t be long.” He gets up and quickly pulls his jeans on. Then he leaves the room. I wonder what he’s up to.

He comes back a few minutes later, with a bottle. He throws it at me. Chocolate sauce ! He wants… with chocolate sauce ! I gulp. I’m never gonna get over this one ! I look back at him and realise he has already taken his jeans off. God he’s gorgeous. He looks at me and smiles. Leaning over me like a cat, he lays butterfly kisses on my stomach. He reaches with his hand and pinches my nipple. I’m breathless. Just a few light touches and kisses, and I’m no more than jello.

“Mmm, luv. Taste so good.” He looks into my eyes and smiles evilly. “It’ll be even better with chocolate” he whispers the last part, sensually, into my ear. “don’t you think ?” I sigh happily. This IS going to be the best morning of my life ! “Oh yeah.”

He pulls the covers off of me and licks his lips at the sigh. “Soddin’ beautiful you are Nummy.” I’m sure my eyes are wide with lust. Then a thought goes right through my mind. I get up on my knees and push Spike on his back. He’s going to get the ‘chocolate treatment’.

He looks at me in shock and tries to speak, but I silence him with a kiss. Passionate, searing kiss. When I pull away, his eyes are dark with lust. I look into them, drawn by the dark blue colour. I've never seen anything like this. I stare in wonder.

“You’re beautiful Spike.” I lean in and kiss him tenderly. It’s the most tender kiss of all. When I look back at him, I stare into his eyes again and find a little of lust, but mostly a look of utter wonder and love. I can’t be mistaken now. It’s written in his eyes.

‘Love you Nummy… Now on with the fun, will you ? I’m dying from want here.” I laugh lightly and proceed to kiss him thoroughly. While I do, I my hands roam over his chest. I'm mesmerized by all the muscles and hardness. This feels so good. I take the chocolate sauce and start pouring it over his belly.

“That is soddin’ cold !”

“I recall it was YOUR idea, fangboy.”

“Yeah, but was suppose to be you on the receiving end, luv, not me.” I smile at him and give him a quick kiss.

“You had your fun yesterday, now it’s my turn !” He grabs my head in his hands.

“So this is revenge luv ?” I nod and start rubbing the sauce all over him. I lean over him and give a few tentative licks. This is wonderful. My two favorite tastes combined into one. Spike and chocolate. Mmmm… This really is the best morning ever. I lick him in all the best places. Learning his every curve, the places that are the most sensitive – the nipples, the neck, obviously, his heart – and now I know how to make him moan.

When all the chocolate has disappeared from his body, I can’t wait anymore. I put some more sauce on my fingers and I gently begin teasing his entrance. Finally, when I’ve got him shivering underneath me, I push one finger inside, then two… I slowly stretch him, just like he did for me.

“Oh. Bloody Hell. This is so good luv. More.” I wonder if I can make him beg ? I push one more finger inside and I must have found his magic spot because he’s arching his back and moaning loudly.

“Oh yes ! Nummy ! More, please, more !” I did it ! I made him beg !

Finally I decide he’s ready enough and I cover my own member with the sauce. I place myself at his entrance and lay on top of him. Finally having enough of my teasing, Spike thrusts hard against my cock, taking me deep in one swift movement.

“Oh Spike… You’re so cold, feel so good…” I moan, and it’s almost too much for me. But I don’t want this to finish too soon, so I stop, reveling in the feeling of him all around me.

“A bleeding furnace you are luv. Burning me inside. Want more !” He thrusts against me and our pelvises meet. I moan. This is so good. I start thrusting, faster and harder, following Spike’s lead. Soon, too soon, I feel my balls tighten and, in a mimic of Spike the preceding night, I reach for his cook and stroke it hard. He cries his pleasure and cums between our bodies, coating our bellies. And I follow him, mere moments later, cumming inside him.

No able to hold myself up, I fall on him, our bodies still intertwined. Yup, this is the best morning ever.

Chapter eight : the coming out

We lay there, completely silent for a long time, while I try to regain my breath and my senses. He’s gently stroking my back, up and down, stopping at the edge of neck to play with my curls. This is the most relaxing thing anyone ever did to me. It’s time to get up now. The others will be waiting for us. I slowly pull out of my lover and look at him. He smiles and gets up. He reaches for me and pulls me up, holding me to his chest. I never thought he could be that sweet. We move into the shower, both of us too spent to think of doing anything else other than washing each other.

Finally, soothed, content and dressed, it’s time for us to leave the room and confront the rest of the gang. Spike takes my hand and we go downstairs. When we arrive in the lobby, everyone is there. Cordy and Lorne are talking in one corner, Buffy is holding Dawn, laughing lightly, while her sister is whispering secrets in her ears. I wonder what they’re telling each other ? Gunn, Fred and Wesley are talking together over the desk and Angel, Connor and Giles are having a fathers to son conversation, probably telling the young man to take good care of Dawn. Willow is sitting in Oz’s lap, just like old times, but they are not talking. She’s the first one to notice us.

“Hey, look who finally decided to join us !” Everyone turns towards us and notices our big grins and our intertwined hands. Wesley’s face lights up and he smiles at me, pleased for me. I smile back at him. He comes to me and hugs me. “Thanks Wes.” He let me go and gently pokes my shoulder. ‘No problem.’ I spot Angel over his shoulder and he is smiling his best ‘I told you so’ smile.

“Xander and Spike ? Ewwww. That’s disgusting. I really don’t like the mental image.”

“Buffy. Please shut up !” I didn’t say anything when Giles and her told us they were together, why can’t she do the same for me ?

She looks at me concerned. “You’re sure he didn’t drag you into this ?”

“Yes, I’m sure Buffy.” I look into her eyes and I feel Spike behind me, his hand on my lower back. “I’m in love with him. If you can’t accept that, then you’d better keep your mouth shut, because I won’t stop loving him, and he won’t stop loving me because of what YOU think.” She lowers her eyes.

“All right.” She looks at the vampire. “If you ever, EVER hurt him in ANY way, I’m staking you.”

“Yeah yeah Slayer, you'll stake me good and proper. No need to worry, I'll never hurt my Nummy.” He buries his head into my neck and breathes me in. “Smell so good luv.” He whispers into my ears, my heart does a double flip and heat burns my cheeks. I reach behind me and stroke his cheek.

“Can’t you two get a room ?” Nice, now Cordy's joined the fun.

“No. We were preparing a very nice show. You’re sure you don’t wanna see it ?” I say jokingly. Everyone smiles.

“Now, now, keep the naughty fun in the bedroom please !” Angel’s smiling. “We’re not a brothel here. No free sex shows are allowed !” Everyone burst out laughing. It’s so good to see we’ve all become friends once again. Sure there are still many questions that haven’t been answered, some of us still have issues they need to settle, and there I specifically think about Angel and mostly everybody and about Wesley and his ex-employees, but that will take some time. At least, we’re now able to laugh and smile and stay together within the same room without wanting to kill each other off.

“What Peaches, you sure you don’t want any fun ? You sure could use some.” Angel looks directly at Spike, serious.

“Will. This is none of your business.”

“Oh, come on peaches, I know you like…”

“William ! Keep your mouth shut !” Everyone stares at Angel in shock.

“Sure Sire.” Angel looks at the other vampire and looks ready to reply when Buffy interrupts.

“Wait. Just WAIT a second there.” Buffy shouts, confused.

“What slayer ?”

“Angel is your sire ?” She looks at him disbelievingly. He simply nods.

“Then why, please explain to me WHY you told me it was Drusilla ?” Angel looks surprised then he bursts into laughter. Spike turns away from Buffy and looks at Angel guiltily. The ensouled vampire tries to regain his composure.

“God. This is hilarious. You… hahahaha… told them Drusilla made you ? hahahaha.” He finally stops laughing and wipes away a tear. This is the first real laugh I've ever heard coming out of him. He really is different than the Angel I remember. Maybe being a father can do that to a man.

“What peaches ? Wasn’t gonna tell her you did it. It would've crushed my image.” I gently lay my hand on his shoulder. He turns towards me and smiles.

“You were that much ashamed of me William ?” Angel asks, tenderly.

“Sure was, peac… Sire. Left us you did ! Never got over that. Bloody Hell, how could I tell anyone my sire was a bloody vampire with a soul ? I was the Big Bad you know.” I’m sure I’m not the only who hears the ‘was’ part of this statement. He finally got over it.

“I’m sorry.” Deadboy comes over to us and hugs Spike tightly to his chest. “I won’t let you down again. I promise you that William.” I look around and realise everyone is staring at the two vampires, clearly shaken by the little scene. I look at my lover and I feel a flow of emotions overwhelming me. He is an evil vampire, but even being so, he still helps us, takes care of us, loves us and protects us with his unlife. He will always have these little schemes of his and he wouldn't really bother to do all this for any other humans, just for us. He is loyal to the core. And I love him. All of him.

Angel finally lets go of him and Spike looks even happier. Yesterday, at the same moment, I was getting ready to face war, getting into the car with Wesley, not sure of how we would be greeted here, and now, I’m standing here, looking at the man I love making peace with his Sire, and I never, EVER, thought this could happen. Still, it is happening. I look around at everyone, gattered in their own partners arms, except for Cordy, Lorne and Wes that is, and I know this is exactly how it's suppose to be. We were meant to be together and we are.

“What about Riley ?” We all look at Buffy in shock. She broke the magic of the moment.

“What ??? What about him ?” Giles asks, clearly surprised by his wife’s comment.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to startle any of you. It’s just, I was thinking about the prophecy and how everyone that came here had been part of the Scoobies at one time or another, and I wondered about Riley… He isn’t mentioned ?”

Angel looks deep in thought for a moment, then snaps out of it and looks at Wesley. He shakes his head…

“He doesn’t seem to be Buffy…”

“I don’t wanna be rude or anything buffster, but he never really was a part of our group. He was your boyfriend, but that’s about it.” I tell her, trying not to make an argument out of this. She looks at me and nods.

“I… I never realised it, but I know. He never was a part of us… Well, we’ll keep him out of it. He’s better off in Timbuktu with Sam, doing whatever it is they’re doing there.” She looks at Angel. “By the way, what is so funny about the thought of Drusilla being Spike’s sire ?” Angel smiles and looks like he’s gonna burst in laughter again.

“When a childe is made, Buffy, the Sire needs to give a part of his strength to the new born, and Drusilla being insane, a childe of hers would almost certainly be too, because her strenght is mostly centered in her insanity.” He looks at Spike. “And I never thought Spike was insane. Crazy, yes, insane no.”

“Hey ! Poof, m’not crazy !”

“Sure Spike. Tell yourself that.” Oh My God. Angel is actually joking around ! Wow. By looking at the others, especially at Willow, Oz and Giles, I realise I’m not the only one to be completely mesmerized by this. He never did this when he was in Sunnydale.

“Angel ?”

“Yes Xander ?” He looks surprise to hear me call him by his name and not one of the insults I usually use.

“Just wanna say it’s great to hear you laugh and see you smile. You should do it more often.” Everyone agrees with me, nodding their heads, Connor more vigorously than the others.

“Well, I’ll try. Hell, I’m getting better and better at it !” He shows us a big bright smile. Everybody bursts out laughing. This is so great ! There is no more tension, except for a little between Wes and his old friends, but it’s quickly disappearing. If this keeps up, they’ll all be best friends again before the end of the day !

We all settle in the kitchen for a communal breakfast and I enjoy the light conversation around me. I haven’t felt this relaxed since… well since Buffy came to Sunnydale. I am leaning in my lover’s arms, eating pancakes and waffles with the people that matter the most in my life, and there is no bitterness, no anger, just friendship. Forgiveness will come in it’s due time. I know we’ll all be patient.

Finally, we all get back in the lobby.

“Dad, yesterday, after calling her, you said that Faith was strongly drawn here too, but not as much as the rest of them. Is she mentioned in the prophecy ?” Connor brings us back to a serious matter. But even so, the atmosphere is still light.

“I don’t know Connor.” Wesley gently taps on his shoulder and sits beside him. He gestures for a few minutes and Angel concentrates.

I look at Spike, who still has is arms around me, and I smile lovingly. He gently presses his lips to mine and I forget everything. For a moment, we stay there, lips locked, not moving, just feeling each other. Eyes closed, I put both hands on his cheeks and gently stroke. He has amazing cheekbones.

“Er… Guys ?? Spike ? Xander ?” We break the kiss suddenly and turn around. Dawn and Connor are looking at us, still in each other’s arms, grinning madly. “Angel was saying that Faith is in the prophecy, but has a minor role. She’s referred to as the…” Connor seems to have a blank. He looks at his father and Angel continues.

“The Wrecker.” He makes a pause. “She won’t actually break us, but she can be our doom if we’re not carefull.”

“Get it ! Don’t trust the renegade slayer !” Angel shakes his head.

“Xander, it’s not really a question of trust. You need to understand her.” I look at him disbelievingly. “I think we should trust her.” He adds. Is he crazy ? He just said…

“Are you crazy ?” Ahh, I’m not the only who’s been thinking it ! Maybe he is… “You just said she can bring our doom and you want to trust her !”

“Buffy, please, hear…”

Suddenly, a loud bang echoes through the lobby, we all turn around towards Wesley and realise he made the noise with a hammer. He needed to get our attention. Franctically, he gestures to Angel and me and I understand most of it. This is exactly why she is the Wrecker. She’ll always come between us and we can’t let that happen. Angel looks at Buffy and explains her what Wes said. He helds his hand out in truce and Buffy shakes it. They understand each other now. Even if we all became friends once again, there are subjects we should definitely not talk about. The Holtz fiasco for one, maybe Angelus, and now Faith.

After that, we make small talk and finally all the girls decide to go shopping. They all want to buy baby stuff ! Oz is going with them, he’ll drive. A few minutes after they leave, while we men were sitting in comfortable silence, Angel’s cell phone rang and Cordy told him she’d had a vision and that Spike and him needed to go.

“I don’t wanna go Nummy.”

“I know Spike. But if the powers say you have to go, it’s probably important. Beside, it’ll give you plenty of time to talk with your Sire. You need to talk you know.”

“Yeah. A big Sire/childe talk. Love you Xan.” He bends his head and kisses me lovingly. I’m never going to get tired of his lips. Finally, they both go and that leaves Gunn, Wesley, Connor and me in the lobby. I look at Wes and smiles. He smiles back and leaves for a walk around the neighbourhood. Gunn follows him. They too have plenty of things to say to each other. Without an interpretor, Gunn will have some problems understanding Wes, but I have no doubt that they’ll work it through.

“Xander, you wanna train a little ?” Why does everyone take me for a punching bag ?

“Uhh, sure, why not. Just don’t punch too hard.” He laughs and I can’t help but laugh with him.

Actually, it’s not that bad. He teaches me some tricks and makes sure I’m not bruised. In the end, we are very sticky with sweat, but grinning. He is a very good fighter and a good teacher. That’s when I wonder why I never bothered to really train with Buffy. But remembering the bruises, the supernatural force and everything so slayer like, I know why !

“That was great Connor, we must do this again someday.” I tell him while we are taking are breath.

“Do what luv ?”

“Spike ! You’re back !” I hurry to his side and try to kiss him, but he shoves me away.

“You’re all sticky luv. M’not kissing you like this.”

“Hey ! I’ll have you know you are sticky too, fangless ! Kill any nasties ?”

“No. Was a set up to get my Sire to talk to me.”

“Or my Childe to talk to me. You can see it both ways Spike.” Angel’s smiling at Spike genuinly. That talk must have been really productive. “So, the two of you have bonded as well ?” Angel asks.

“Connor’s great, he’s taught me a lot of tricks. I’m sure I could hold my side in a battle now.”

“Not gonna happen Nummy.”

“Why not ?”

“I’m taking care of you, aren’t I ?” I lean in and kiss him before he can react. I love him so much.

Connor looks at us and shakes his head. Yeah, we’re hopeless ! We all go back upstairs to our respective rooms. Spike and I take a wonderful shower together, caressing and learning each other’s body as much as we can. I don’t ask about his talk with his Sire, he’ll tell me when he’s ready, I don’t wanna push him to do anything he doesn’t want to.

When we finally get back downstairs, everyone is back and the girls proceed to show us all of what they bought. Oh my… we’ll be here for a very long time !

Chapter nine : the karaoke

(The songs used in this chapter are not mine, they belong to their respective singers and composers ; Heaven’s What I Feel, by Gloria Estefan, featured in the movie Dance With Me ; I Want to Spend My Lifetime Loving You, by Marc Anthony and Tina Arena, featured in the movie The Mask of Zorro ; Drowning, by the Backstreet Boys ; and For The First Time, by Kenny Loggins, featured in the movie One Fine Day) and (I’m sorry for this chapter, I was listening to a movie song CD and I couldn’t help myself… lol)

We all decide to stay another night in LA, knowing we need to bond more still. Lorne comes up with this great idea and we all go to a karaoke bar he knows of. He had decided not to try to reopen Caritas after the Holtz fiasco, but he still loves the atmosphere of karaoke. We all agree to go but before Lorne makes us promise to sing a song. One he’ll pick for us. I can’t believe I’m even agreeing to this. I just hope he comes up with something easy to sing, ‘cause I don’t have the best of voices.

When we get there, I know immediately why he brought us there. It’s almost empty, so no one will come between us. We can sing all we want with no one listening. I think I’m going to love the green guy. The only thing is, he wants Angel to sing ! I should have brought ear plugs !

The first one to have a go at it is Buffy and she’s singing a Gloria Estefan song, Heaven’s What I Feel… I think I get it right… Lorne really is perceptive, it’s so symbolic of what she feels for Giles.