“I love you Buffy, please never forget that. You are my whole world and I’ll only be gone for a week. We can make it through, I promise.” Will cupped her face in his hands and leant down placing a soft kiss on her lips.

Buffy melted into his embrace and kissed him back passionately, never wanting to let go. “I know, but why did it have to be now? It seems like they’re taking you away from me.” She pouted a little and heard Will chuckle.

“It’s just for business, I’ll be back before you know it.” They heard his flight being called and Will pulled her in for a hug, “I guess I better go. I’ll call you as soon as I get there ok?” He pulled back and gave her another kiss before grabbing his bags and walking away. “I love you,” he called out over his shoulder and headed toward the gate.

Buffy felt a tear trickle down her face and wiped it away, “I love you too,” she whispered as she watched him go. When he was out of sight she turned around and walked out, not looking back.

The week went slowly. Buffy spent the entire time working hoping it would go quickly but it just seemed to keep going slower. After she finished work at the gallery that day she ran out of the building and hopped in to her car driving straight to the airport to pick up Will. She waited at the gate with a huge smile on her face as his plane got in. She frowned when she couldn’t see him and started to get worried as everyone walked passed her and Will was nowhere to be seen. She felt a hand on her shoulder and she grinned and turned around but her smile faded, “Can I help you?”

“Are you Buffy Summers?”

“Yes, I’m Buffy.” She started to feel sick, “Who are you?”

“Miss Summers we’re with the FBI. We’ve been trying to track you down but you’re one hard girl to find. We have some bad news.”

“Oh God,” she whispered. She didn’t have to be told what it was, she knew exactly what had happened and she fell to her knees and was finding it hard to breathe.

One of the agents bent down, “We’re so sorry but William Giles was killed while he was in New York. He was shot, at close range and there was nothing they could do to save him. I’m sorry to tell you this Miss Summers.”

Everything went quiet and Buffy’s head was spinning. She just got up and walked out in a daze hoping that it was a dream. ‘Will is dead, he’s gone and he’s not coming back.’

Buffy woke up in a cold sweat and was breathing hard as she looked at the clock. She had only been asleep for about 3 hours and was feeling drained. She put her head in her hands and let the tears fall at remembering her dream. That day changed her life completely, she closed herself off from all her friends, quit her job and moved to Los Angeles to try and start a new life. It had been 5 years, new job, new circle of friends but she missed Will deeply. He was the love of her life, her first everything. They first got together when Buffy was 17, Will was in college but was friends with her brother Xander. Buffy had always had a crush on Will and one day her world got turned upside down when Will kissed her at her Senior Prom. They were inseparable from that day forward, spending every waking moment together. After college they moved in together and everything was perfect. Little did she know Buffy’s world was going to be turned upside down again.

Once she finally stopped crying she got up out of bed and crossed the hall to the bathroom to wash her face. She looked at her reflection in the mirror and didn’t recognize the girl she saw. Now a brunette, she was much thinner than she was a few years ago. ‘I look like hell,’ she thought to herself. She had dark bags underneath her eyes and was very pale. She hadn’t been sleeping well for the past month, Will haunting her dreams every night. Tomorrow it would have been 5 years since Will died, she didn’t want to go back home to Sunnydale. It held too many memories and she didn’t think she could face her old friends and her mom. They had tried to help her through the difficult time but Buffy felt suffocated and needed to leave. She left everyone behind, her friends, her family, her and Will’s home. The home where they shared many wonderful moments, where he proposed to her and made love to her.

Buffy leant against the sink and was determined to keep her eyes open, not wanting the thought of Will’s death playing in her mind anymore. She took a few deep breaths before heading back to her bedroom, walking over to her dresser. She opened her top drawer and pulled out the engagement ring Will gave her. She clutched it in her hand and walked to her bed and slid under the covers. She closed her eyes and the image of Will getting down on one knee proposing popped into her mind. Buffy smiled at the thought, thinking back at how they made love all night and how happy she felt in his arms.

Buffy sighed heavily and opened her eyes again. She stared blankly at the wall, feeling sleep not coming any time soon. She clutched the ring in her hand tighter and spent the rest of morning in a daze.

A few hours later she noticed the sun shining through her blinds and slipped out of bed. She put her ring on her night stand and slipped on her robe and slippers before heading downstairs to start another long day.

Buffy had breakfast before showering and getting ready for work. She drove down to the end of her street before stopping. She stared out at the road for the longest time before turning left and heading toward Sunnydale and not her job. ‘I need to do this, I just have to.’ It was time to head home, to visit Will’s grave. No matter how much she didn’t want to she knew it was time to go back.

Buffy pulled up outside the cemetery and got out, bracing herself for the nightmare ahead. She took a deep breath before walking in and heading to find Will’s grave. She barely even attended his funeral, just stood back and watched his friends and family mourn over their loss.

Buffy stopped when she spotted his tombstone and headed on over slowly. “Guess it’s now or never.” She sat down in front of it and ran her fingers over his name. “Hey, it’s me. Buffy. I know I haven’t came to visit you but I couldn’t bring myself to do it. I’m not even sure if I was ready today but it’s been 5 years Will. It feels weird being back here, I never would have imagined I’d step foot back in Sunnydale.” She felt the tears starting but held them back, “I miss you so much,” she whispered. “You never leave my mind Will, you’re always there with me. Smiling and laughing. I miss the sound of your laugh.”

He watched from afar, couldn’t believing that she was actually here. Every year on this day he’d been in the exact same spot, waiting for her to show but she never did. “Buffy,” he whispered. She looked thin and not at all healthy but still beautiful.

Buffy frowned and thought she felt someone staring and looked around behind her. “Weird.” She turned back to the tombstone, “It’s still hard to try and move on. Remember how we planned our lives? Getting married and starting a family of our own, growing old together.” She smiled a little, “And now we’ll never have that. I don’t want it with anyone else Will, it was always about you.”

Buffy spent the next half hour just telling Will about her life. She looked at her watch, “Wow I’ve been blabbing for a while, you’re probably up there telling me to take a breath.” She stood up, “I’ll always love you Will.” She placed her engagement ring on top of the headstone and started walking back to her car but was suddenly grabbed and pulled over behind a mausoleum. “What the-“ she stopped talking and looked up at the figure.

Will watched her go, “Here’s my chance.” He moved up behind her and grabbed her quickly pulling her behind the mausoleum. She saw him look up at him, “Shh Buffy don’t scream.”

Buffy stared up at him, eyes wide and speechless. “Will?” She thought she must have been dreaming and suddenly felt rather dizzy, “I need to-” she didn’t finish that sentence before she collapsed in a heap, everything turning black.

He caught her just in time before she hit the ground and gently laid her down on the grass, brushing some hair out of her face. “Buffy wake up, luv. Come back to me.”

She stirred a little and opened her eyes, looking up in to a pair of blue eyes she thought she’d never see again. Buffy quickly got to her feet and backed away, “What the hell is going on here?”

“Buffy, luv, I know what you’re thinking and you’re not dreaming. I’m here Buffy, I’m here. I never died and-” he was cut off by her hand coming in contact with his cheek. He hissed as the pain shot through him, “Buffy would you let me explain?”

“Explain? You want to explain? Explain what Will? The fact that you’re standing here when you’re suppose to be 6 feet under or the fact that you’ve lied to me that you’re actually alive.”

“I know you’re angry but I had to do what I had to do Buffy.”

The tears started to form again but mostly she was angry, “Do you have any idea what you’ve put me through? I thought you were dead! I shut out my friends and my family and started a new life because I couldn’t bare the thought of being in Sunnydale anymore.”

“Buffy, my life was in danger. I loved you, I couldn’t put you in danger as well so I left.”

“Danger? That’s your excuse? God you’re pathetic.”

“I was in witness protection,” he said quickly.

Buffy started rambling on until she heard him tell her he was in witness protection. “What?

“I was in witness protection. That’s where I’ve been for the past 5 years Buffy. Why do you think I’ve stayed away until now? I couldn’t risk coming in contact with anyone but I come here every year hoping that you’d turn up at my grave. This year I was lucky that you did.”

Buffy stared up at him, “Will, what the hell happened that you needed to be put in witness protection?”

“I got in deep Buffy. Real deep, the kind that I wasn’t suppose to get out of. My death was staged. And could we possibly go somewhere a little more private to talk about this? A cemetery isn’t exactly where I imagined telling you everything when I found you again.”

Buffy’s head was spinning, “You know what? No, we can’t go somewhere. You start explaining yourself right now or I will actually kill you.” She was fuming and couldn’t believe he was standing right in front of her.

Will ran a hand through his hair, “Fine.” He watched Buffy fold her arms and he couldn’t help but smirk a little, “Still as stubborn as ever.” He cleared his throat at the way she was looking at him, “Right, explaining. I was undercover for the FBI. When I was sent to LA that’s what it was for, I was helping them catch one of the biggest drug lords in LA. It so happens that he worked for my company, I got in on the deal making this guy trust me and I got in so deep I didn’t know if I was going to come out alive. He started suspecting me so I went straight to the guys at the FBI and we came up with staging my death. I knew these guys were going to come after me so I had to be prepared. I had to leave you behind Buffy because they would have come after you too. Once they thought I was dead I was sent to New York, had a complete name change, got a new career, everything Buffy. Everything was new and I couldn’t include you.”

Buffy didn’t think her head could start spinning even more but it did. “Do you have any idea how much pain I have been in these past 5 years? I started a whole new life too Will, I shut my friends and my family out because I couldn’t deal with the pain. But why now Will? Why suddenly come back here now?”

“I told you Buffy, I wait here for you every year and this year I was just lucky. I’m so sorry, luv. Oh and it’s best not to call me Will anymore, it’s Spike now.”

“Spike?” she spat out. He went out and try and touch her face but she stepped back and slapped his hand away, “Don’t touch me. Don’t ever try and touch me again.”

“Buffy don’t be like this, I had to do it to survive. I knew you’d be ok and that you’d move on.”

“Move on?” she screamed. “I haven’t moved on Will, I’m far from moving on and I haven’t been ok.” The tears started flowing freely now as she looked up at him, “Every night I’ve had nightmares about you dying, about being told that you were dead and that you’d never come back home to me. 5 years Will, 5 years of that. Waking up crying and begging for you to be alive again and here you are standing right in front of me.”

“I’ve never stopped loving you, I did it for you.” Spike reached out for her again but he got a slap across the face, “Would you stop doing that?”

Buffy looked up at him coldly, “You’re still dead to me. I don’t ever want to see you again.” With that she brushed past him and started running toward her car wanting to get away from there as fast as possible.

Spike watched her go and couldn’t help but think he lost the only woman he ever loved forever.

Joyce was in the kitchen preparing lunch for her and Dawn when she heard a knock at the door. She wiped her hands and walked to the door opening it only to get a shock. “Buffy?”

“Hey mom,” Buffy said quietly and wiped her eyes. She just stood there and Joyce opened her arms and Buffy walked into them hugging her mother tightly. She started weeping, “I’m so sorry mom.”

“Shh Buffy it’s ok sweetie.” Joyce soothed her daughter, rubbing circles on her back and just hugging her, her own tears springing to her eyes.

Dawn came running down the stairs, “Mom who’s that?” She saw the woman look up and her eyes went huge, “Buffy?”

“Hey Dawnie.” Buffy gave her sister a little smile.

“Hey Dawnie? That’s all you’ve got after 5 years of not talking? You’re gonna have to do better than that sis.” Dawn went back upstairs and slammed the door to her room.

“Guess I deserved that, she’s right. 5 years of not talking or visiting and I just show up on your doorstep.”

“Buffy it’s still your home too, it always has been.” Joyce pulled her daughter in for a hug again, “I’ve missed you so much, I’ve been so worried about you these past few years. I had no idea what you were doing or where you were.”

“I’m sorry mom.” Buffy pulled back, “You’re beautiful, you haven’t aged a day.”

Joyce laughed a little, “Flattering, thank you.” She grabbed Buffy’s hand and they made their way into the kitchen, “Let me fix you something to eat Buffy, it looks like you haven’t eaten in a long time. You’re far too thin.”

Buffy sat down at the counter, happy that she was back home. “A sandwich would be great.” She eyed her mother, “Mom, I have to tell you something.”

Joyce looked up and saw the hurt across Buffy’s face, “Buffy what is it? Are you ok?” she asked worried.

“I’m fine mom. It’s Will.”

She thought she’d bring him up eventually, “Five years today, I haven’t forgotten. He was like a son to me, I know how much you two loved each other.”

“He’s alive mom.”

Joyce almost dropped the knife in her hand, “I’m sorry, did you just say William’s alive?”

Buffy shook her head. “I did.” She started relaying the entire morning she had, running into Will at the cemetery and him telling her where he was.

“Wow.” Joyce sat down at the counter trying to find the right words, “He’s been alive this entire time and in witness protection? Why come out now and risk the chance of exposure?”

“I don’t know mom. And honestly I kind of didn’t stick around to find that part out, I just told him he was still dead to me and I didn’t ever want to see him again.”

“Oh Buffy honey I’m sorry.” Joyce put her hand on Buffy’s back, “Maybe you should let him explain. I know it’s hard but like you said he had his reasons for leaving everyone behind.”

“I don’t know if I can see him again. He’s still the same, apart from the fact he calls himself Spike now. Some part of me just wishes this was a dream, that I’m going to wake up and not have to deal with it.”

“But it’s not a dream and you’re going to have to deal with it sooner or later Buffy. I just can’t get over the shock that he’s been alive all these years.”

“Now you know how I feel. My head is still spinning and trying to take in everything he told me.” She turned her head to look at her mother, “Mom..” she started to say.

“You can stay for as long as you want Buffy, your room is still the same. What about work?”

“I’ll call them and tell them I need some time off. They’ll understand, after all I am the boss so I have people to take care of the gallery for me.”

Joyce nodded, “Ok. Well why don’t you get settled and I’ll bring you up some lunch when it’s ready?”

“Ok mom. Thanks.” She gave her mother a kiss on the cheek before heading upstairs. She stood outside Dawn’s room and knocked on the door. “Dawnie, can I come in?”

“Go away Buffy, I have nothing to say to you.” Dawn sat on her bed hugging her pillow closely to her chest.

“Please let me in, I have things I need to tell you.” Buffy tried the doorknob and it wasn’t locked. She opened it a little way and peered in, “Is it safe to come in?”

“Fine, come in. Say what you have to say.” Dawn stared out the window not once glancing Buffy’s way.

“I’ve missed you.” Buffy sat on the edge of her bed and Dawn didn’t say anything, “Will’s alive.”

That got her attention and she turned to Buffy, “What?”

“Will’s alive.” Buffy told Dawn everything she told her mother, “So, what do you think?”

“What do I think? I think I need to kick his ass, that’s what I think.”

Buffy laughed a little and moved up the bed hugging her sister, “I really have missed you Dawn, I’m sorry for not keeping in touch.”

Dawn hugged her sister back and put her head on her shoulder, “I’ve missed you too, I should kick your ass for leaving me too you know. I haven’t had my big sister around.”

“Even at 21 you still miss your sister?” Buffy pulled back and tucked some of Dawn’s hair behind her ear.

“21, 41, 71, I’ll always miss you no matter how old I am.” She got a good look at her sister and frowned, “You’re brunette, and very, very skinny.”

“So I’ve been told a lot lately. I’m staying here for a while, catch up with my family. Speaking of family, where’s Xander?”

“He’s with Willow. They got married and have a little girl, they’re doing really well.”

“Wow really? I’m an Aunt?” Buffy asked. Dawn nodded and Buffy smiled. “Well then I’ll have to do some sucking up I guess.”

“Buffy, what are you going to do about Will?” Dawn asked concerned.

“I have no idea Dawnie. I haven’t given it much thought to be honest, I’m just still trying to take in that he’s alive. Not to mention he’s looking as good as ever.”

Dawn smiled, “You still love him Buffy, you should go and find him and talk things out.” There was a knock at the door and Joyce came in with a tray of sandwiches for the girls, “I’m glad I have both of my girls under the same roof again, I’ve missed this.”

“Me too mom.” Buffy smiled warmly and grabbed a sandwich, “So how can I get in touch with Xander?”

“Oh, I hope you don’t mind but I kind of invited him and Willow over for dinner tonight.”

“Mom it’s fine, I was just telling Dawn that I wanted to go and see him and Wills. I can’t believe they’re married and have a little girl.”

“Oh don’t worry, I was the same way. I was surprised that Willow took to him and agreed to marry Xander.” Dawn giggled, “But if you saw them together you’d know how much they’re meant to be. Kind of like another couple I know.”

“Dawnie, Buffy doesn’t need that right now.”

“Mom it’s fine. She’s actually convinced me to go and track him down, maybe talk things out.”

“I did?” Dawn sat up and smiled, pleased with herself.

“Ok honey, but if you need anything you know where I am ok?” Joyce kissed both her daughters on the forehead and went back downstairs.

“So, fill me in on all I’ve missed about you Dawnie.” Buffy got comfy on the bed next to Dawn and grabbed another sandwich off the tray.

Dawn started filling Buffy in about her life at college, the boy she had a crush on. They spent the rest of the afternoon together just enjoying being around each other again.

After lunch and catching up with Dawn, Buffy decided to head out for a while for some fresh air. She drove around town and before she knew where she was she was outside her and Will’s home. She got out of the car and leant against it as she looked at their home. It hadn’t changed at all.

“I wondered when you’d show up here.”

Buffy whipped her head around to see Spike standing beside her, “Yeah well I had to come and see if it was still standing.”

“Can we talk? Maybe inside?” He saw Buffy nod and they walked up the path. “Oh right, we need a key.”

Buffy smiled and bent down under the doormat and pulled one out, “Surprised you forgot we had a spare under there.” She unlocked the door and they headed inside, “Wow, it really hasn’t changed.”

“A lot of memories here isn’t there?” Buffy didn’t look at him and they made their way into the living room to the couch.

“So..” Buffy said. “I’m sorry for what I said to you at the cemetery. I honestly don’t think you’re still dead to me. I was just angry that you kept this from me but I’ve been thinking a lot and I know why you did it.”

“I did it for us. I knew one day I’d be able to come back to you but I just had to wait for the right time.”

“The right time being 5 years? Care to explain that one to me?” Buffy turned a little to face Spike.

“Turns out that no one is after me anymore Buffy. I’m a free man, I don’t have to keep hiding. That’s why I’ve come back. I still need to be careful but I want to be here Buffy.”

“I just don’t know what to think Will. You’ve been gone for so long and it’s doing my head in trying to get everything straight.”

Spike nodded, “I know. It’s hard for me too luv, so you’re not the only one.” He sighed, God Buffy I love you so much, there was never anyone else. I’d count down the days until I could finally come back to you and the moment is here.”

Buffy felt a tear trickle down her cheek, “Will, we have a lot to work through. You can’t just expect to come back here and find me and think we can pick up where we left off.”

“I never said I expected that Buffy. I will understand if you can’t trust me but I’m willing to earn that back. Just don’t shut me out, don’t tell me there can’t be anything between us again.”
“I don’t know what I want right now. Can you give me some time to think about it? I’m still getting use to the idea of you being back that’s all. But I’m not shutting you out, I’ve never stopped loving you either but it will just take some time. Can you accept that?”

“Of course Buffy, I will give you all the time in the world. I’m not going anywhere again, I promise.” He gave her a faint smile and moved closer to her, “Can I at least hug you?”

“Yes Will you can hug me.” She moved closer and wrapped her arms around his neck. As soon as she felt his arms around her she melted into his embrace, remembering the feeling of being in his arms again.

“I’ve missed you so much,” he whispered.

“I’ve missed you too.” She closed her eyes and inhaled his scent, one that she hadn’t smelled in a very long time.

Spike held her tightly and kissed her hair, never wanting to let go.

“Do I really have to call you Spike?” she mumbled against his chest.

He let out a laugh, “Everyone that knows me does because they don’t know the other me. But no Buffy, you don’t have to call me Spike.”

She nodded against him, “You’ve just always been Will to me, that won’t change.” She pulled back and looked into his eyes, feeling his hand brush her cheek. She nuzzled it and smiled warmly.

“How about I cook you dinner tonight?”

“Actually I have plans. Mom invited Xander and Willow over for dinner tonight, family reunion and all that. I’d invite you along but I think I just need to tell them alone that you’re still alive.”

“So you haven’t told them yet?”

“I’ve told mom and Dawn. So tonight I’ll tell Xander and Willow, although you coming along might take the pressure off me a little. Considering you and Xander were friends.”

Spike nodded, “Buffy if you want me there I’m there.” He heard her laugh a little, “What’s so funny, luv?”

“It’s just been a very long day. I wasn’t even going to come here today but I did. I never thought in a million years I’d come back to Sunnydale. Not to mention reunite with my family and find out you’re alive. It still feels very unreal to me.”

“It will take some time getting use to, pet. But I’m not going anywhere, I’m here for the long haul Buffy and it’s going to take a lot to try and get rid of me.”

Buffy nodded against his hand before he dropped it from her cheek. She frowned at the loss on contact but let it go, “I don’t want you to go anywhere. I just need time, I don’t want to lose you again.”

“And you won’t.” He took her hands in his and looked up at her, “Like I said, I’ll give you all the time in the world.” Spike leant forward and placed a kiss on her forehead.

“Thank you.” Buffy moved her hands away, “So, have you told your dad you’re alive yet?”

“Actually yes. Well not me personally but he’s in England and was informed about my return. He’s on the first flight back here apparently so I expect to see him tomorrow. I can almost see him taking his glasses off and cleaning them when he found out the news.”

Buffy laughed a little, “Good old Giles huh? Well I’ll be happy to see him, I’ve missed him.” She ran a hand through her hair, “How about we go and get some coffee? I’m in the need for a caffeine fix.”

“Sure, luv.” He smiled and they both hopped up off the couch before walking outside. “Drive or walk?”

“Let’s walk. I need the fresh air.” They walked down the steps and turned left and headed toward the coffee house. “Will, what have you been doing all these years?”

Spike put his hands in his jacket pockets as they walked down the path, “Well once I got into witness protection I had to have a career change. After I left the law firm I had to give that up and I went into art. Much like you.”

“You’re into art now? I knew you always loved it but I never think you’d pursue a career in it.”

“Neither did I but I own my own gallery up in New York now. And that’s what I’ve been focusing on in the past 5 years. What about you Buffy? Still into art?”

“I actually own a gallery myself in LA. It’s been doing well, I even paint and draw some of the pieces when I have time.”

“You were always quite the artist Buffy.” They turned the corner and walked into the coffee shop getting a quiet booth in the corner. “I’m proud of you.”

She smiled, “Thank you. I haven’t done much but thank you. It means a lot coming from you.” They ordered their coffee and spent the next few hours catching up. “Oh my God, is that the time?” she asked as she looked at her watch. “Mom’s expecting me home for dinner.”

“Let’s get going then.” He got up and helped her stand up before grabbing their coats.

“Are you still coming?”

“Do you want me to?”

“Yes, of course I want you to.”

“Well then it’s settled, luv. I’ll be a nice surprise for the whelp and Red when they get there.”

“If you give one of them a heart attack you’re paying the hospital bills.” Spike chuckled and they left the coffee house to go to Joyce’s place.

Buffy and Spike walked to the front porch before walking inside. She heard voices in the kitchen and turned to him, “Maybe you should stay in here, just until I warn them?”

“Sure, luv, if you think that’s best.”

“I do. Just for the minute because they’re going to be asking a lot of questions and I want both sides to be prepared that’s all.” She gave him a small smile before walking into the kitchen, “Hey gang.”

“Buffy! Oh my God, Buffy!” Willow got up and walked over throwing her arms around her best friend, “I’ve missed you so much.”

“Yeah, Buff. Where have you been all these years?” Xander smiled and walked up hugging his sister, “Welcome home Buffy.”

“Wow, and here I expected you to hate me and ask me why I stayed away for so long.” She hugged them back, “I’ve really missed you guys.”

“Buffy we could never hate you, we know what you went through and now understand why you wanted to leave it behind.” Willow pulled back and gave her best friend a smile, “Wow you look..very different. I guess that’s what 5 years does to someone.”

“Oh trust me, I’ve dealt with the issues of how I look from these two right here.” She pointed to Joyce and Dawn.

Dawn put her hands up in surrender, “Hey, just stating facts here.”

“Well pray tell little sis, what have you been up to in these past 5 years? Mom here tells me you own your own gallery.”

“I do. And there’s something I have to tell you guys.”

“You’re pregnant? You’re engaged?” Willow screamed but Buffy waved her off, “Oh then I take that as a no then.”

“You guys might want to sit down for this, or you could walk into the other room to find out for yourself.”

Joyce walked over to Buffy, “Is he..” Buffy nodded, “Wow, that I wasn’t expecting. You guys talk and I’ll keep this certain someone company. Dawn come with me please.”

“What? Why?” Joyce shot her a look and then she got it, “Oh right, coming mom.” She hopped off the stool and they both walked into the living room where they saw Will.

“What’s going on Buffy?” Xander moved over to sit at the bench, “You look guilty about something.”
Willow joined her husband and folded her arms.

“Well you know how Will died?” She looked at them and didn’t say anything so she continued, “Well it turns out that he..well..he didn’t.”

“WHAT?” both Willow and Xander screamed out in unison.

“He’s alive?” Xander asked. “What? When did this happen?”

“I found out today, I wasn’t going to tell anyone about it and just keep it to myself but when I saw mom today I just broke down. He’s in the next room and I can completely understand if you guys want to walk out of here right now but he really wants to see you and explain himself.”

“So I take it you two have already talked?” Buffy nodded and Willow stood up, “Well I guess he has some explaining to do.”

Spike turned around and saw Joyce and Dawn walk in, “Long time no see.” He opened his arms and Dawn ran into them hugging him tightly, “Hey Nibblet.”

“Will I’ve missed you.” She pulled back and punched him in the arm, “And that’s for staying away for 5 years. I know you did it for a good reason but still, that punch was also for a good reason.”

Spike chuckled a little, “I know Dawn but I promise to fill you all in about what happened, Buffy only got the headlines.”

“It’s good to have you home, you’ve really been missed around here.” Joyce walked over to the man who she thought of as her own son and hugged him tightly.

“Will?” Xander and Willow stood in the doorway to the living room, “Well you look extremely well for someone who’s supposed to be a decomposed body.”

“Thanks Whelp, that’s appreciated.” He smirked and walked over giving his friend a hug, “It’s good to see you.”

“What about me?” Willow pouted a little and pulled Spike in for a hug, “I can’t believe you’re alive. I mean it’s great and I’d rather you be alive then dead but..” she stopped talking, “You really should stop me when I keep talking.”

“Oh I think it’s adorable.” Xander put his arm around his wife and kissed her temple.

“You two haven’t changed at all. I’m glad to see that you’re finally together, took you long enough.”

“Like you can talk! What about you and Buf-” Willow was cut off by Xander clearing his throat. “What do you say we get dinner started? I’m starving.” He dragged his wife off into the kitchen, “I don’t think mentioning them as a couple is the best thing right now sweetie.”

“Ok, maybe you’re right. It’s just weird seeing them not all coupley. But I’ll keep my mouth shut about the past, it’s obviously a sore subject.”

“Hey, whatcha talking about?” Buffy walked into the kitchen and smiled.

“Nothing at all. Shouldn’t you be out there getting reacquainted?”

“No Xander I shouldn’t be. I’ve seen him already and it’s actually hard being around him,” she said quietly. “It’s just..very different but at the same time nothing has changed at all. He’s the same old Will.”

“Buffy what happened?” Willow asked concerned. “I mean why make us think he’s dead all these years?”

“I’ll let him tell you over dinner, there’s a lot to be explained apparently and I know he’s been holding back from me. And to tell you the truth I’m a little scared to what he’s hiding. He says he’s safe and he’d fine but I’ve always been able to tell when he’s lying to me.”

“What do mean he’s safe?” Xander sighed, “Right, he’ll tell us over dinner. Well let’s get this over and done with.” He picked up some dishes and walked into the dining room and put them on the table, “Dinner is served guys!”

They all made their way into the dining room and took a seat, Spike making sure he was next to Buffy. She looked over and gave him a faint smile before turning back to her dinner.

Spike looked up and saw everyone staring at him, “You want me to start explaining now?”

“Yeah,” they all said at the same time.

“Ok then. Well I was in witness protection. I got in deep at my law firm but don’t worry, I was under cover with the FBI. That’s why I got in deep. One of my colleagues turned out to be a drug dealer and the FBI have been trying to catch him out for a while. I got in it with him to try and help bring him down and it backfired a little. I overheard him telling his men they needed to get rid of me because I couldn’t be trusted. I went straight to the FBI and we came up with a plan to stage my death. And the rest is history.”

“Excuse me, I need some fresh air.” Buffy stood up and walked out through the kitchen and out the side door. She leant against the wall and sunk down, hearing him explain things was a little too much for her to handle right now.

“Leave her, she just needs a breather,” Joyce said as Spike went to get up to go after her. He nodded and just sat down again.

“So Buffy mentioned something about you being safe. Are you really safe now? That’s why you’re back? I mean it’s been 5 years, I can’t believe you’ve been away for that long,” Willow said.

“I had to be in hiding until it blew over. He still has men out there looking for me but they haven’t heard anything in about a year so they said it was safe for me to come out of hiding and contact my loved ones again.”

“Wow, that’s completely insane.” Dawn sat forward and just looked at him, “Are you sure you’re ok? Because I don’t think any of us could handle losing you again if something went wrong.”

“I’ll be fine Nibblet, I’m still being monitored though just incase.”

“It’s just good to have you home Will, that’s one hell of a story but I swear if you hurt my sister again I will have to rip your head off.”

“Trust me I think she’ll do that all on her own, she wasn’t exactly welcoming. But I can’t blame her, she told me how much she went through and I don’t want to blow it this time.”

“This time?” Joyce asked. “Are you two back together already?”

“Wow that didn’t take you long,” Dawn said quietly.

“No we are not back together, Buffy just needs some time. She knows that I’ve never stopped loving her and am willing to give things a real shot this time. So my feelings are out there, I’m just giving her space.”

“Good idea, she really doesn’t look herself. Really withdrawn, I don’t like seeing her like that.” Willow felt bad for Buffy and Xander reached over rubbing her back, “It’s ok sweetie, we’re all worried.”

Spike finished up dinner, “I think I’ll go and see how she is.” He smiled and got up leaving the guys to finish dinner.

Spike opened the door and walked out on to the porch where Buffy was. “Hey, you ok?”

Buffy turned around, “I’m fine, I just needed a breather that’s all.”

“You forget when I know you’re lying, luv.” He walked over and stood next to her, “I know it must have been hard hearing everything but I promise you I’m not keeping anything from you.”

“It’s not that Will, well partly but it’s just everything. It’s just a little overwhelming that’s all. In the matter of a couple of hours my life has changed so dramatically and I’m trying to take it all in. It’s not easy.”

“Sounds like I shouldn’t have come back and disrupted your life then.”

Buffy turned to Will, “Hey it’s not like that and you know it. I never once said that I regretted you being back because that is far from the truth.”

Spike sighed, “I know, luv. I’m sorry, I just feel as though you don’t want me around. But I understand why you’re being distant Buffy, I do. But please don’t take too long to come around, I’ve missed you.”

“God Will I’ve missed you too but I can’t exactly put a time frame on something like this,” she said starting to get a little annoyed.

“I know that Buffy! You asked for time and that’s what I’m giving you. I guess I’m just getting my hopes up for wanting something more.” He turned toward her, “Buffy look at me.”

Buffy turned slowly and then looked up at him. He reached up and cupped her cheek and she felt her stomach do a little flip, something that happened every time he use to touch her.

“Buffy I love you, that hasn’t changed and I know you love me too, we both know that but you’re scared. But I’ll give you time Buffy, I’ll wait forever.”

Buffy looked up at him with tears in her eyes and felt her breath catch in her throat as his piercing blue eyes stared back at her, “Will..” she whispered.

Spike leant down and Buffy prepared herself, closing her eyes and leaning forward a little.

“Dessert is ready you two!” Joyce called out and Buffy pulled back quickly, “Guess we better head in.” Buffy turned away and walked back inside quickly.

“Bloody hell.” Spike mentally kicked himself before following her inside. They took their seats at the table again and Buffy never once looked his way.
“So have you got somewhere to stay Spike? Because our couch is always available.”

“I have a hotel room Joyce but thanks anyway. I don’t want to make things more awkward.” He glanced at Buffy and she looked down.

“I’d offer for you to stay with us but we have a screaming 2 year old that may keep you up all night.” Xander smiled.

Willow nudged Xander, “She’s not that bad, she’s just going through a stage. That and she takes after her daddy.”

Spike chuckled, “I’ll have to meet this little girl. What’s her name?”

“Lily. She’s so adorable and I know she’ll love you. But please don’t corrupt her little mind, not at least until she’s 16. I know how you work Will.” Willow glared which made Spike laugh and put his hands up in surrender.

“Oh please, with you two as parents she’s already corrupted,” Dawn chimed in.

Joyce started dishing out dessert and she just shook her head, “My granddaughter is the perfect little angel, she’s been raised well.”

The rest of the night went smoothly and it was getting late so they all decided to head home. “Will, come by tomorrow and we’ll hang out. I get off work about 4 so come any time after that.”

Spike nodded, “Will do mate.” He gave his friend a hug, “Good to see you whelp.” He kissed Willow’s cheek and watched them leave before he turned back to see Buffy walk back into the kitchen.

“Well I’m beat, I have an early start in the morning so I’m going to bed. Night everyone.” Dawn kissed Spike’s cheek before heading upstairs for the night.

“Here mom, let me do that.” Buffy grabbed the dishes and started cleaning.

“I interrupted something outside before didn’t I?”

“No, not at all. We were just talking, nothing happened.”

“Buffy, even after all these years I can tell you’re holding back. I’m not going to push you into telling me but I think you should figure out what you want. Be true your heart Buffy, I’ve always told you if you want something go for it.” She kissed her daughter’s forehead before saying goodnight to both her and Spike and heading to bed.

“So, alone at last.” Spike walked into the kitchen and stood next to Buffy helping her with the dishes.
“Will you don’t need to do that.”

“We need to talk Buffy.”

“About what? I think we’ve said all we needed to say haven’t we?”

“No Buffy we haven’t.” He threw the towel down and turned toward her, “We almost kissed outside and then you ran away before we had a chance to talk about it.”

“There’s nothing to talk about, nothing happened so can we just leave it?”

Spike sighed, “Fine, we’ll do what you want Buffy. As always,” he muttered. He pulled a piece of paper out of his back pocket and handed it to her, “That’s my room number at the hotel if you need me for anything.” He gave her one last look before walking out and heading back to the hotel.

Sleep didn’t come easy. Buffy was wide awake and couldn’t stop tossing and turning. She eventually sat up and switched her lamp on glancing at the piece of paper sitting on her nightstand. A few seconds later she was dressed and jumping out her bedroom window.

Spike turned over in bed and just looked at up his ceiling, Buffy never leaving his mind. He sat up when there was a knock at his door and he got up slipping his boxers on before answering the door. He was surprised she’d turn up but was glad.

Buffy eyed his naked chest and felt herself wanting to drool. She looked up at him for a few seconds, looking into those eyes and they were filled with love. She stepped forward and kissed him passionately not wanting to hold back anymore.

Spike wrapped his arms around her and held her close kissing her back just as passionately. He turned them around and kicked the door shut before pressing her against the wall. They broke away and both of them were panting hard, “God Buffy I’ve missed you so much.”

She captured his lips in a fiery kiss again, “Just make love to me Will. Please.”

“Anything my princess wants.” Spike picked her up in his arms and walked over to the bed gently laying her down and crawling up the bed to lie on top of her. “You’re so beautiful Buffy.”

Buffy moaned his name quietly as he kissed her neck and jaw line, “Please Will I need you.” She moved against him a little and felt a bolt of electricity shoot through her body.

Spike reached up and undid her robe revealing a little nightie she was wearing. He pulled the straps down and kissed her shoulder before taking it off and throwing it to the floor. He bent down and took her breast in his mouth, circling her nipple with his tongue.
“Oh God Will.” Buffy arched her back pushing her chest up him. She hadn’t been with anyone else since Will. She could never bring herself to open up to anyone else like this.

Spike moved his hands down, “Lift up Buffy.” She raised her hips off the bed and he pulled her panties off, “God everything about you is perfect, I’ve missed you.”

“I’ve missed you too Will.” Spike got off the bed and got rid of his boxers before coming to lie in-between her legs again.

He kissed her passionately and slowly slid inside her. They both moaned in unison at the sensations flowing through both their bodies and what it was like to be with each other again.

Spike pulled back and began to move slowly inside her, wanting to take his time with her. He looked down into her eyes as he held himself above her.

Buffy wrapped her legs around his waist and ran her hands up and down his back remembering what it was like to have him inside her.

“So perfect, luv.” He bent down and kissed her neck and shoulder, lightly nibbling on the place he knew she always loved.

Buffy let out a loud moan, “Faster Will.” He sped up his thrusts and Buffy tilted her head to the side giving him better access.

“I’m not gonna last much longer Buffy.”

“Me either.” She threw her head back and cried out as she felt herself starting to squeeze around him, “God I’m cumming Will.” She started breathing hard and felt herself explode, cumming hard around him.

“Oh fuck Buffy.” Spike groaned and thrusted in her a few more times before exploding hard inside her. They both rode out before he rolled over onto the bed, making sure to bring her with him wrapping her in his arms. “I love you Buffy.”

“I know Will, I love you too.” She said the last part quietly and they both quickly fell asleep in each other’s arms.

Buffy opened her eyes slowly, feeling the sun shining on her face. She then stiffened immediately when she felt herself wrapped up in a pair of arms.

“Morning, luv.” Spike looked down at her and smiled before dropping a kiss on the top of her head.

The night before came rushing back to Buffy, “Hi,” she said quietly and sat up wrapping the sheet around herself. “I should get going.” She went to get up but Spike grabbed her.

“You’re not going anywhere Buffy, we need to talk about what happened whether you want to or not. We need to decide where we go from here. You said you needed time and we ended up here.”

“I know.” She sighed and ran her hand through her hair.

“And you told me you loved me last night Buffy, that has to mean something.”

“Of course it means something. You know I’d never say anything like that and not mean it. I know I said I needed time and yes I still do but..”

“But you want to take it slow right?”

“Well can you blame me? I don’t want to jump back into anything too quickly. You came back after 5 years less than 24 hours ago, I think you owe it to me to try and get to know each other again and take things slowly.”

He nodded, “Ok Buffy, we’ll take things slow. I already told you I’d do anything you wanted. I love you and I’m willing to do whatever it takes for us to get things back on track.”

“Thank you.” She gave him a smile and leant down and kissed him softly. “Last night was amazing. You know I haven’t been with anyone since you. I couldn’t bring myself to find someone else.”

“Wow really? 5 years is a long time Buffy but I understand.”

“What about you? Were there any women back in New York?” She ran her finger over his chest, outlining his muscles.

“There was one.”

“Oh.” Buffy moved away slightly but Spike grabbed her and pulled her to him again.

“I didn’t sleep her with Buffy. I couldn’t go through with it because I knew I’d eventually come back to you and I didn’t want to ruin our chances. You were my first Buffy, my first and only. I wanted to keep it that way.”
“It’s the same for me. There was one guy who seemed interested, he works at my gallery but I said no when he asked me out.”

“I’m sorry I put you through all this Buffy. I wish I could have at least said goodbye to you but I couldn’t put your life in danger like that. If they knew I was involved with someone they would have come after you too.”

“It’s ok Will, I understand why you stayed away. You were always wanting to protect me, even if it did get a little annoying sometimes.” She giggled a little and he reached down grabbing her ass.

“That’s because I love you and didn’t want anything to happen to you.”

“Remember that time at the beach where I got stung by that jelly fish? I think I was about 13 and you were 15, you came to my rescue.”

“You were in pain, luv. Plus I could hear you screaming from the other end of the bloody beach.” She nudged him and he chuckled, “And I happened to like seeing you in your bathing suit.”

Buffy laughed, “I had a crush on you the second I saw you. I was such a little school girl around you with the blushing and everything.”

“It was adorable. Took me a few more years to realize there was more to you than just a ditzy blonde teenager.”

“I still remember everything about us Will. Our Senior Prom especially, it’s the first night you kissed me.”

“How could you forget that, it changed everything.”

“I still couldn’t believe you never had sex with any other girls before me. You were 19.”

“Did you forget I was a big nerd in high school? No other girl would touch me with a 10 foot pole.”

“I happened to like the nerd in you Will, it’s what made me fall for you in the first place. You weren’t the typical big dumb jock type.”

Spike laughed, “No I wasn’t, luv. But I wanted to become the man you could fall in love with, that’s why I changed my appearance for your prom.”

Buffy pulled back, “You did that for me? You’ve never told me that before. But I loved you regardless of this look. Not that I don’t dig the bleached hair and leather thing but I loved you the way you were before too.”

“I just figured it was time for a change that’s all. But what about you? You’re a brunette now, get sick of those blonde locks?”

“Well it was time for a change for me too. I was getting older, wanted a new look.”

“I happen to think it’s very sexy but I do miss those gorgeous blonde locks of yours.”

“I might change it back eventually, but I guess you’ll just have to wait and see.” Buffy snuggled up at his side and put her head on his chest. “I’ve missed this, just snuggling with you.”

“I’ve missed everything Buffy.” He kissed the top of her head, “Thank you.”

“For what?”

“Giving us another chance.”

“I love you, I’ve always loved you and 5 years didn’t change that. We still have a lot to work through but I don’t want to be apart from you anymore.”

“Me either Buffy.” He hugged her tightly and ran his hand up and down her back feeling her smooth skin.

“We’ll just take it one day at a time, see where it leads. I don’t want to rush anything.”

“Well that’s a little late, we did sleep together last night. That’s not exactly the meaning of taking it slow.”

She smacked his chest a little, “You know what I mean. The sex is amazing, it always has been so now that I’ve had it again I’m not giving it up.”

Spike chuckled, “I know what you meant, luv.” He tilted her head up to him and leant down kissing her softly.

At that moment Buffy’s stomach deciding to start growling and she pulled back, “How about we order some room service?”

“You’re going to send me broke aren’t you? I know how much you put away so my hotel bill is going to be expensive,” he said with a smirk.

“Ha ha very funny.”

“I thought it was.” He reached over and picked up the phone before ordering some food for breakfast, making sure there was at least one of everything for Buffy. “I hope you plan on staying in bed with me all day, we have a lot to make up for.”

“I think I can handle that. Although I should call mom and tell her where I am, I snuck out last night. I felt like I was 16 again.” Buffy bent over the bed and grabbed her cell phone from the floor before quickly calling Joyce telling her she was with Spike.

“She ok with her daughter spending the night with me?”

“I’m 27 Will, I think she’s fine.” Spike grabbed her and pulled her on top of him making her giggle.

“I think we have some time before breakfast.” He wiggled his eyebrows at her and gave her a playful smile.

“Is that right?” She smiled and leant down kissing him passionately, spending the rest of their day in bed together.

Buffy and Spike sat across from each other at the restaurant silently enjoying their meal. “So I never really heard about this gallery of yours in New York, tell me about it.”

“There’s not much to tell really. You knew I was always an artist so it just went from there. I knew I’d go back to it eventually and this kind of gave me an excuse to do it. It’s just a small gallery but it’s one of the best, we get a lot of artists wanting us to sell their work so it does pretty well.”

“Wow. So do you ever do any work yourself and sell it?”

“No. I do keep a private collection upstairs in my office but I haven’t really had the guts to put it on display.”

“Why not? I always loved your work, you’re a natural.”

Spike shrugged, “Guess I’m not like you, luv.” He gave her a warm smile.

“I always paint what means the most to me. I have this one buyer, I’ve never met the guy but every time I paint something new he buys it online as soon as he knows about it. And they’re for a lot of money too.”

Spike just smiled, “Well he obviously thinks you’re a fantastic artist, luv.”

Buffy smiled back, “Well it is my life so I’d like to think I’m pretty good. You helped me come out of my shell remember? Maybe I should return the favor some time. I’ve seen your work Will, you should have it on display.”

“Maybe one day but right now I’m happy where it is. Sitting in a corner in my office in New York.”

“And also in my apartment.”

Will raised an eyebrow, “You’ve still got that painting?”

“Of course I do. I could never bring myself to get rid of that, it was the first thing you ever painted for me. It’s beautiful and it’s the first thing I see every morning when I wake up.”

“I never really knew it meant that much to you. I’m a little surprised since it’s a painting of yourself.”

“You painted me from scratch Will, I wasn’t even there posing for you. You have a photographic memory and you remembered me sleeping and you painted it. It’s beautiful.” She reached over and put her hand over his.

Spike caressed the back of her hand with his thumb, “You’re always on my mind Buffy, I memorized everything about you.”

Buffy felt tears coming but pushed them back, she hadn’t felt this happy in a long time. “That’s the sweetest thing anyone has ever said to me.”

“I love you Buffy.” He bought her hand up and kissed it.

“I love you too.” She smiled through the tears that were now running down her cheeks. She reached up and brushed them away. “So, what’s for dessert?”

Spike chuckled, “Knew that was coming, you can never say no to dessert.” He picked up the menu and passed it to her, “Have a look and get anything you want.”

Buffy took the menu and started looking it over, “Ooh Crème Brulee sounds nice. Let’s get some of that.”

The waiter came and Spike ordered her some dessert making sure there was plenty of it. “I know how much you enjoy your dessert Buffy, so I got enough so you can take some home too.”

“Well aren’t you sweet?” She gave his hand a squeeze, “So what happens now?”

“What do you mean?”

“I mean with us Will. You have a new life in New York now and I have a life in LA. I can’t stay here forever, I have a job to get back to.”

Spike sighed, “I know. Honestly I haven’t thought that far ahead because I’ve just enjoyed spending time with you here. But I’m more than ready to give up my New York life and come and be with you in LA. It’s closer to your family so it makes sense.”

“You’d really do that? Just give up everything?”

“Buffy, I’ve been away for 5 years. I don’t want to waste any more time.”

Buffy nodded, “Ok. Well can we just think about it for a few days? Maybe you could come to LA and check things out before making a decision and maybe I’ll do the same. I’ll come to New York and check things out there and then we’ll decide what to do.”

“Sounds reasonable. Why don’t we head to New York first?”

Buffy shrugged, “Ok, I mean I still have a few days left off work so I’ll spend them in New York with you.”

“Then that’s settled, luv.” He smiled and the dessert came and he split it with Buffy. “You can check out my gallery, see what you think.”

“I’m sure I’d love it Will but I can’t wait to check it out.” She let out a moan as she tasted the dessert, “Oh my God that tastes amazing. I think that’s the best thing I’ve ever had in my mouth.”

Spike smirked, “Well now I’m offended.”

Buffy’s eyes widened. “Will! Stop that. And you know I meant food.” Spike laughed and Buffy threw her napkin at him.

“Stay with me tonight.”

“I’d love to, Mom doesn’t really expect me home now anyway and there’s nowhere I’d rather be.”

“Good.” They finished dessert in silence and talked for a little more before Spike paid the check and they headed back to his hotel room.

As soon as they were in the door Spike has his hands all over her, unzipping her dress and dropping it to the floor. “Let me make love to you Buffy,” he whispered in her ear.

Buffy moaned and leant back against him as his hands roamed her body, “I want to taste you first.” She turned around and kissed him hard and walked them over to the bed and getting rid of his pants. She pushed him down on the bed and knelt on the ground in front of him.

Spike hissed as she took him in her hand, “Oh God Buffy that already feels good.”

She started stroking him up and down before leaning in and swirling her tongue around the head, pressing hard as she already knew he loved.

Spike’s hips jerked off the bed for a split second as he felt Buffy’s tongue on him. “Fuck Buffy don’t stop luv.”

Buffy took the head of his cock in her mouth and started sucking hard as she kept stroking him up and down, tightening her grip a little. She moaned around him and took him a little way more in her mouth, sucking hard and making sure to massage him with her tongue.

Spike grabbed a handful of hair and tugged a little, raising his hips to try and get his cock deeper down her throat.

Buffy finally took her hand off him and took him all the way in her mouth, relaxing her throat muscles and letting him hit the back of her throat. She moaned around him and sucked hard.
“God I’m not gonna last much longer if you keep that up.”

Buffy bought her mouth back up and licked the head before taking him all the way in her mouth again. She reached down and took his balls in her hand giving them a light squeeze knowing it would push him over the edge.

“Oh fuck Buffy I’m cumming, luv.” He cried out as he came hard, emptying himself inside her mouth.

Buffy swallowed him down and waited until he finished before standing up in front of him. She stepped back a little and unhooked her bra dropping it to the floor before hooking her thumbs in the waist of her panties and pulling them down. She stepped out of them and moved over to Spike and straddled his waist.

“God you’re incredible, luv. Now it’s my turn to return the favor.” She flipped them over making her giggle and kissed her hard.

Buffy moaned into his mouth and rubbed against him, reaching down to slip his shirt over his head so there was nothing between them.

Spike moved down her body, kissing every inch of her perfect skin paying close attention to her breasts. He flicked his tongue over her nipple and felt it harden and bit down gently.

“Oh God Will.” Buffy arched her back pushing her chest up at him and he squeezed her breasts as he continued to move down her body. He licked around her belly button before coming to lay in between her legs.

Buffy moaned loudly as she felt Spike blow cool air on her clit, “Please Will I need you.”

Spike threw her legs over his shoulders and licked all the way up her sex, moaning as he tasted her. “You taste bloody wonderful. Never forget the way you taste Buffy.” He took her clit in his mouth and started sucking hard, running his tongue back and forth.

“Fuck Will don’t stop.” She raised her hips wanting more contact. He felt amazing and always knew the right way to please her.

He moved his hand up and caressed her thigh before moving it over and sliding two fingers inside her. He started pumping them in and out slowly, in time with the movements of his tongue.

Buffy reached down twisting the sheets in her hands and knew she wouldn’t be able to last long. “So good Will, please don’t stop.” She was already breathing hard and closed her eyes and threw her head back getting lost in the pleasure.

Spike sped up his movements a little, loving the noises she was making for him. He hardened his tongue and flicked it against her making her cry out and added a third finger inside her.

“Fuck I’m cumming Will.” Buffy pushed her hips down wanting as much contact with him as possible.

Spike felt her starting to squeeze around him and quickly removed his fingers and replaced it with his tongue. He moved his hand up and started rubbing her clit hard and fast wanting to make her orgasm last for as long as possible.

Buffy cried out as she came hard on his tongue, moaning his name loudly. She came down and fell back on the bed trying to catch her breath.

“Always love the way you taste Buffy.” He kissed his way back up her body and slid in to her right away and automatically starting to thrust inside her hard and fast.

They both came together a few minutes later, their names on both their lips and they fell in a heap. “Wow,” Buffy whispered. “Now I remember one of the reasons why I fell in love with you.” She laughed a little, “I think I’ve lost the use of my legs.”

Spike chuckled, “Then my work here is done” He went to get off the bed and heard Buffy whine. “Just kidding, luv.” He leant over and kissed her still trying to catch his breath. “It was pretty damn amazing but it always was.”

“Oh it always will be, I don’t doubt it.” She ran her hand through her hair and moved up the bed a little getting comfy against the pillows. “Now I’m a sleepy Buffy, you wore me out.”

“Get some sleep, luv. I’ll see you in the morning.” They said goodnight and both drifted off to sleep in each others arms.

The next morning Buffy and Spike made a quick visit to say goodbye to Joyce, Dawn, Xander and Willow before heading to New York. They were on the plane by 11am and Buffy sat back closing her eyes.

“I can’t believe that you’re still afraid of flying. Just breathe, luv. It’s not going to crash and we’re not going to die.”

Buffy’s eyes shot open and she looked eye wide at Spike, “Will! Now you’ve totally jinxed it and if it does happen to crash and we die I’m coming back to haunt your ass for an eternity.”

Spike just laughed and grabbed her hand giving it a squeeze, “Take deep breaths, it’s not that far and you know there are ways to kill those nerves of yours.” He wiggled his eyebrows and smirked.

She thought for a minute but then shook her head clearing her thoughts, “I am not joining the mile high club Will,” she whispered.

“You actually considered that for a minute didn’t you? You dirty girl.” He laughed and leant over kissing her softly.

The rest of the flight they sat in silence and Buffy was relieved as soon as she got off the plane. They quickly made their way through the airport and in to a cab heading toward Spike’s place.

“Right, before we go inside I just want to say something.” Spike turned toward her, “I love you, I’ve always loved you and I’m fine with whatever we decide to do. I just want to be with you and I don’t care where. Whether it’s on the other side of the planet because wherever you are, I’ll be right behind you.”

Buffy smiled and reached up putting her hand on Spike’s cheek, “I know Will. I know.” She leant up and kissed him softly, “Now show me around this fabulous apartment of yours.”

He opened the door and held his breath as they both walked inside and heard her gasp, “Surprise?”

“Oh my God.” She dropped her purse on the table and looked around the living room noticing some of her paintings on the walls. “You’re my buyer?”

“I am. When you mentioned it back in Sunnydale I just decided to keep it a secret until you saw it for yourself. I’ve seen and bought everything you’ve ever painted, they’re all through my apartment.”

Buffy turned around and threw her arms around Spike’s neck and hugged him tightly, “You are the most amazing man I’ve met in my entire life.” She pulled back and kissed him, “I can’t believe you did all this.”

“Well I couldn’t have you so I just had pieces of you instead.” Spike started showing her around the place and Buffy was in awe.

“I still can’t believe that you’re my best customer, I don’t think you’ve bought anything else from my gallery apart from all my work.”

“You’re right I haven’t. You’ve been with me this whole time Buffy, you’ve never left me.”

“This place is amazing Will, you’ve put a lot of work into it. At least it looks that way.”

“I have Buffy, it wasn’t exactly the best place when I got it but I did it up the way I wanted and now it’s my own personal bachelor pad.”

Buffy raised her eyebrow, “Bachelor pad?”

“Well, you know what I mean.” He just laughed and showed her where everything was, “And since there’s only one bedroom I just expect you to bunk in with me. Keep me warm at night.”

“Oh is that right?” She laughed and wrapped her arms around his neck, “I think I can deal with that.” She leant up and kissed him passionately, pressing herself against him. “Now if I remember, there is a spa in the bathroom.” She stepped back and started undressing slowly, “Would you care to join me?”

Spike swallowed hard, “Bloody right I’d care to join you.” He undressed quickly followed her into the bathroom.

After their spa they went into the living room to relax before they headed out for a night on the town.

~~~~

Buffy walked the streets of New York holding bags of clothes and shoes and wearing a bright smile. She heard her cell ring and smiled when she saw it was Spike. “Hey there handsome, how’s work?”

“Bloody nightmare, luv. How’s the shopping?”

“I swear I have maxed out my entire credit card getting all this stuff but it’s totally worth it.” She stopped walking and frowned, turning around feeling there was someone following her.
Spike noticed she went silent, “Buffy?”

“Oh sorry Will, I just have a funny feeling I was being followed but there’s no one there.” She shrugged and kept walking, “So I was thinking since I’m done shopping why don’t I come and visit you at the gallery? I think I’m nearby anyway.”

“Sure, luv come on by. I just have to go out and get a few things but I’m sure my assistant can lead you up to my office incase I’m not back yet.”

“Ok well I’ll see you soon then.” She said goodbye and hung up and just slowly made her way to the gallery, stopping in some more shops buying Spike a present.

When Spike got off the phone he walked downstairs and out the door to his car, “Oh bugger.” He forgot his list and so he made his way back inside to grab it.

He heard his phone ring again and groaned as he picked it up. “Yeah?” It was another buyer and he sighed loudly before sitting down to deal with them. A few minutes later he was off the phone and headed out the door again.

Buffy hummed as she practically skipped down the sidewalk and looked up at the buildings. She finally got to Spike’s gallery and looked around outside. She saw his car, “Must be back already.” She walked closer and the car started up and drove down the street, “Or he could just be leaving.”

She went to walk inside and stopped, whipping her head around as she heard a loud explosion. “Oh my God.” She dropped her bags to the ground and felt her whole body turn cold as she saw Spike’s car up in flames.

Buffy’s body went cold and she started running toward the car screaming his name. “WILL!” The tears started to form and she was screaming hysterically. Suddenly a pair of arms quickly grabbed her and pulled her back from the car.

“Buffy, it’s me luv. Shh.” He hugged her tightly and pulled her against him.

“Will?” She pulled back and looked up to see that he was the one who she was wrapped up in. “Oh my God.” She threw herself at him, wrapping her arms around his neck and jumping up and wrapping her legs around his waist. “I thought you were dead.” She was still crying and trying to calm down but her emotions were running wild.

“Buffy it’s ok. That wasn’t me in my car.” He looked out at the car and heard sirens in the distance, watching the flames wrecking his car.

“I thought you were gone.” She pulled back and started kissing his face before hugging him tightly again still crying.

Spike held tears back of his own, knowing who was in that car.

Buffy pulled back and wiped her eyes, “Will, if that wasn’t you in there who was it?”

“My assistant Michael. I was about to go out when I got a little busy so he offered to go out and get the stuff I wanted for me. You have no idea how close I came to being in that car Buffy.”

She put her hand on his cheek, “I’m so sorry Will. But you have no idea how cold I went after I saw it happen. I just..” She relived it, still thinking it was Will in the car and started crying again. “I don’t know what I would have done if I lost you. I can’t lose you, not again.”

“You won’t Buffy. I promise.” He started looking around and spotted someone looking out of the alleyway. He frowned and the guy just smirked at Spike and nodded his head before turning around and walking away. “Buffy we need to leave, right now.”

She frowned, “Why? What’s wrong?”

He was going to say something but paused, “Nothing, I just want to take you home. You’ve been through enough today.”

“Will, you just lost your assistant and your car just blew up, don’t tell me it’s nothing. It’s a little abnormal for a car to just blow up in the middle of the street.”

“You think I don’t know that?”

Buffy looked at the terror written all over his face and realized something, “It’s not over is it? Somehow they’ve found you and they’re trying to kill you again.”
“I can’t talk about this here, Buffy. Let’s just go home.” Spike went to walk away and Buffy grabbed his hand pulling him back.

“Do you really think it’s a good idea to go back to your apartment right now? What if..” she trailed off knowing Spike would understand.

“What if they’ve found out where I live and plan to blow that up to? Buffy my apartment building has some of the best security guards in New York, I hired them myself for protection. No one is getting in that apartment without being seen.”

Buffy nodded, “Ok. Shouldn’t you talk to the police first Will? They’ll want to know what happened here.”

“Look around Buffy, plenty of witnesses. I just want to get you home safely, they want me they’ll come find me.”

She just frowned again but followed him. She walked over and grabbed the bags that she dropped and they got a cab back to Spike’s apartment.

They walked in and Buffy cringed as Spike slammed the door shut. “I need a drink,” he mumbled. He walked into the kitchen and grabbed a bottle of whiskey pouring himself a glass.

Buffy walked into the kitchen slowly and put a hand on his back, “Will, this isn’t your fault.”

“Of course it’s my fault Buffy. That was supposed to be me in that car and now someone has lost their life because of me.”

“You couldn’t have known that was going to happen. Do you have any idea how damn grateful it wasn’t you in that car? Yes I’m sorry that you lost your friend and I might sound a little selfish here but I’d rather him than the man I love. I don’t ever want to go through what I have experienced twice now, I thought I lost you back there and my whole body just shut down again like it did the first time.”

“I know Buffy but it’s still hard.” He looked to the bench and frowned, “What’s that?”

Buffy looked at the package on the table, “I don’t know, it was outside and addressed to you so I bought it in when we came inside.”

Spike got up off his stool and went to the package. There was no return address so he opened it. He went white as he saw what was inside, photos of him and Buffy together out in Sunnydale and her out shopping today. One had a red X across her face.

“Will what is it?” Buffy walked over and grabbed the photos off him and started looking at them, “Oh my God.” She saw the one with the X on her face, “Guess they’re not only after you now.”

“Buffy, they’ll come after you before they get to me. I think you should go back to LA without me, I’ll deal with this.”

“If you think I’m leaving you, you are deluded. I’m not going anywhere so don’t even try to push me out that door,” she said her voice slightly raised. “We will deal with this together.”

Spike nodded, “Ok. I just don’t want you in any danger Buffy. These guys are dangerous and I just want to protect you.”

“And I want to protect you, I’m not a little girl any more Will. I can take care of myself.”

“I never said you couldn’t. You have no idea what you’re getting yourself into Buffy.”

“And I don’t care because I’m not leaving you no matter how hard you try to push me away.”

“Fine.” He grabbed the photos and chucked them in the trash.

“What are you doing? They are evidence Spike, we’re going straight to the police first thing in the morning and don’t you even try to wiggle your way out of it. We can’t handle this by ourselves.”

“Whatever Buffy.” He quickly downed the rest of his whiskey and walked down the hall to the bathroom and shut the door loudly.

Buffy jumped a little and sat down at the counter picking up the photos and having a look at them. They were being followed in Sunnydale and her eyes widened, “Mom.”

Buffy breathed a sigh of relief after she got off the phone with her mother. Everything was fine in Sunnydale, nothing out of the ordinary was happening so at least she knew her family was safe.

She walked down the hall and knocked on Spike’s bedroom door, “Will?” There was no answer so she just opened the door and saw him sitting on the edge of the bed with his back turned.

Buffy walked in and crawled on the bed behind him and wrapped her arms around his waist before putting her head on his shoulder, “Please don’t shut me out Will, I want to be here for you.”

“I know Buffy but it’s hard since I want and need to keep you safe. These are dangerous people, luv. Not people you want to get mixed up with.”

“Well then I’m lucky I have you around to protect me from them. But you know I can kick some ass if needed, this is what I’m a black belt for.” She smiled as she tried to lighten the mood.

Spike got up off the bed, “This isn’t funny Buffy.” He started pacing the room but stopped when he saw the look Buffy was giving him.

“I’m sorry, this is just all new to me that’s all. I’ve never really been around anyone that people are trying to hunt down and kill.”

“Maybe we should stay away from each other, maybe that will be easier.”

“No,” Buffy said straight out. “I’m not leaving and I’m not letting you push me away either. We’re in this together and do you really think that they’d stop if I wasn’t around? They’ll probably come after me all by my lonesome Will and then you’d be wracked with guilt that you couldn’t save me when I’m laying dead in a ditch somewhere.”

“Alright stop.” Spike ran his hand through his hair, “We’ll figure something out ok? But no matter where we go they’ll likely track us down.”

Buffy frowned, “Will what’s that?”

“What’s what?”

“That on your forehead? It’s a red-” Her eyes widened, “Oh my God.” She leapt up off the bed and jumped on Spike knocking him to the ground just as a bullet came through the window.

“Bloody hell.” Another shot was fired, “Buffy stay down!”

They started crawling their way across the floor to the door, “People should really stop trying to kill you today.” Buffy covered her head as another shot was fired. “Oh God we’re gonna die.”

“We’re not gonna die. Just stay low, I’m going to get up and you’re going to head for the door. Don’t worry about me, just get out of the room.”

“Will I’m not leaving you.”

“Buffy go!” Spike screamed at her and he got up from behind the bed, “Come on you bloody wanker, shoot me.” He looked down to see the red dot on his chest and he quickly dropped to the ground again, “Now Buffy.”

Buffy screamed as she made her way across the floor and out the door. She turned back to see Spike on the floor, “Oh no. No, no, no, no.” She saw the blood, he wasn’t quick enough.

She ran back over to him and dropped to her knees, “Come on Will, don’t die on me. Stay with me.” She got out her cell and quickly called the ambulance. Buffy cradled him in her arms until the paramedics got there and took over.

Buffy sat in the back of the ambulance with Spike, praying that he’d be ok. She replayed the days events in her head knowing it would only get worse. Two attempts in one day, she couldn’t handle any more.

Spike was immediately rushed to surgery and Buffy was told to wait until they had any news. She sat down and rocked herself back and forth as she cried. “Please let him be ok,: she whispered.

Hours passed before the doctor came back out to meet Buffy. She stood up, “Is he going to be ok?”

“There was some damage to his abdomen but we were able to repair it. He lost a lot of blood but he’s stable, we won’t know anything else for the next 24 hours. All we can do is wait.”

Buffy breathed a sigh of relief, “Oh thankyou Doctor. Can I see him?”

The doctor nodded and told Buffy to follow him, “He’s heavily sedated and will likely be out for a while.”

“I just want to sit with him.” She walked into the room and a batch of fresh tears started flowing down her cheeks. He looked so helpless laying there. She walked over and grabbed his hand in hers, “Please come back to me.” Buffy sat down in the chair and just looked at him while she stroked the back of his hand with her thumb.

Buffy felt Spike move and she moved closer to him, “Will?”

“Bloody hell, I feel like I’ve been hit by a truck.”

“Shh don’t talk.” She brushed some hair off his forehead and leant over and kissed him, “You scared me so much, I thought you weren’t going to make it.”

Spike smiled a little, still very sleepy. “You can’t get rid of me that easily.” He gave her hand a gentle squeeze.

“I never want to get rid of you.” She started crying again but this time it was happy tears. “I don’t know what I would have done if I lost you. And it feels like I’ve said that a lot today.”

Buffy moved to sit on the bed next to him, “They almost killed you, twice. They’re going to try again Will, it’s just going to get worse.”

“Shh Buffy it’s ok. I’m alive, it takes more than a bullet wound in the gut to kill me.” He moved a little but winced in pain.

“What are we going to do Will?”

“Let’s not worry about that now ok? We’re safe in here.”

She nodded and Spike opened up his arms and Buffy moved to lay beside him making sure not to hurt him.

A few hours passed and Buffy woke up still next to Spike. He was sleeping soundly so she got up and quickly wrote a note saying she was going back to his apartment to pick up a few things for him and she’ll be right back.

Buffy got to the apartment and opened the door, automatically dropping the keys. “Who are you and what are you doing?”

“I’m an old friend of Will’s. How’s he doing by the way?” He got up from the couch, “You’re so much hotter up close, he’s got good taste.”

Buffy backed away from him, “You’re the one who tried to kill him aren’t you?”

“One of the many, I wasn’t the one who shot him directly but I saw it happen.”

Buffy frantically tried to look around for some kind of weapon and kept moving back slowly, “Who are you and what do you want?”

“Name’s Angelus. And what do I want? Let’s see, what do I want. Well for starters I would like that piece of shit you call your boyfriend 6 feet under.”

“You’re never going to get to him, Will’s fine. Your plan of killing him didn’t work. You may be losing your touch, two tries in one day and he’s still not dead? You may need to rethink your approach.”

Angelus lunged toward Buffy and grabbed her by the throat and bashed her head on the counter, “You better watch your mouth with me girl or Will could find a little dead surprise in his bed when he comes home.”

Buffy cried out and got slammed against the wall finding it hard to breathe. Tears started running down her face and Angelus let her go and she fell to the floor. She rubbed her neck and just looked up him before kicking her legs out and knocking Angelus to the floor.

He hit the floor with a thud which gave Buffy the chance to get up and run out the door. Angelus got up and ran after her, quickly catching up to her. He grabbed her by the shirt and slammed her into the wall and the next thing Buffy knew was darkness.

Buffy opened her eyes and winched as she felt her head pounding. “Where am I?” She looked around and the room was dark except for one light up above her head. She squinted her eyes a little to try and make out if anyone was in the room with her but it was dead silent. She tried moving her arms but they were tied around the chair she was sitting on. “Great, no way out.”

“It’s about time you woke up, you were out for a while.” Angelus strode into the room and just smirked down at her. “And there’s no point in trying to get out of that rope because you won’t. I’m afraid you’re stuck here until I let you go.”

“What do you want from me? I have nothing to do with what you want from Will.”

“No but he loves you and when he notices you’re missing he’ll come look for you even though he’s injured. He puts your life ahead of his, always has. This way he’ll come for you and then since his guard is down I’ll get what I want.”

“And what’s that?”

Angelus just laughed, “For a chick that hot you sure aren’t that smart Buffy.”

“You know you’ll never kill him, you’ll never get what you want. Think about it, you’ve tried multiple times and you’ve still failed. What does that tell you?”

“That I have idiots working for me?” He reached out and grazed Buffy’s cheek with his hand and she turned away disgusted. Angelus just smirked a little. “Once he’s dead this will all be over.”

“When this is over you’ll either be dead or going to prison for life.” She cried out as Angelus’s hand came across her cheek. She winced as her cheek stung and looked up at him, “Truth hurts doesn’t it?”

“Not as much as it’s going to hurt you to watch me kill Will.” He grabbed her face in his hand and planted a kiss on her lips before leaving her there.

Spike woke up and felt the empty space next to him, “Buffy?” He looked around and found the note she left him. He smiled and wondered how long she had been gone when the nurse came in. “Did you see when Buffy left?”

“The blonde woman? She left about 4 hours ago, give or take an hour. You’ve been out to it but you do need your rest.”

“4 hours?” Spike started to panic, “I need to get out of here.”

“What? You’re not going anywhere, you’re staying right where you are. Oh and before I forget some guy rang to check to see how you were. Said his name was Angelus and told me to tell you that he was with a woman picking up a couple of things for you.”
Spike’s eyes widened, “Oh God, Buffy.”

“What? What’s wrong?”

“That’s why I need to get out of here, I need to leave right now.” Spike threw back the covers and swung around before slowly getting up.

“Sir, you need to lay down. You are still badly injured.” The nurse tried to sit him back down but he pushed her away and she fell against the wall.

“I’m sorry, I’m sorry but I have to go.” Spike quickly made his way out of the room as best he could, quickly stealing a robe. He held his stomach as he walked slowly, wincing in pain but trying to push that aside.

Spike tracked down a cab and made his way back to his apartment. “Wait here, I just need to get changed.” He walked up to his apartment and froze when he saw something stuck to the door. He walked over and grabbed the envelope off the door and opened it. “Angelus.” A note telling him where to come if he ever wanted to see Buffy again was in Spike’s hand. He quickly walked inside and got changed before going back down to the cab.

Buffy looked around as she heard the door open and in came Angelus again, “Not you again,” she whispered. “Come to torture me again by making me look at you?”

“Funny. No, just came to tell you that the word on the street is that Will’s on his way. Ran out of hospital when he heard that I had you and found the note I left him. He’ll fall straight into my trap and then he’s dead.”

“Will’s not stupid, he won’t just fall into your trap. And I don’t get it, why not just move on and start a new life for yourself? You don’t need to include killing Will in this little plan you have going.”

“He’s the one that started it all Buffy so I have to get rid of him. If it wasn’t for him I wouldn’t have had to start a new life over in the first place. I lost everything because of him and there’s no way I’m letting him do that to me again.”

“You really should get a new hobby.”

“And you should really stop being such a whiney bitch. Honestly, I don’t even know how Will puts up with you. Or maybe I do, you’re a Viking in the sack aren’t you Buffy?”

“Well you’ll never know.”

Angelus just laughed, “Oh the things I could teach you, I just might have the chance one day. Keep you around as my own personal whore once this is over.”

“I’d rather stab myself in the eye a thousand times over than touch you.”

“Feisty, I like it.” Angelus walked closer and grabbed her hair pulling her head back and looking down at her, “I think I liked you better when you were blonde.” He let her go and stood back.

“How do you know I was blonde?”

“I’ve seen photos Buffy. Will had them all around his office when we worked at the law firm. Pretty little thing you were, especially that photo in your cheerleading outfit from high school. Damn, you were fine.”

“So 16 year old girls are your thing? Wow, not just a drug dealer but a pedophile too. That list just keeps getting longer doesn’t it?”

The cab pulled up outside the little warehouse and Spike looked around. “Thanks.” He paid the cab driver and got out looking around for any signs of Angelus’s men. He walked up slowly and opened the door and was immediately grabbed by 2 men.

Angelus looked up as one of his men walked in the room and told him Spike had arrived. “Ah, the fun begins.” He untied Buffy before grabbed her and walking out of the room. “Will, welcome. It’s about time you got here.”

Angelus had Buffy and held her against him as her hands were still tied. He wrapped one arm around her waist making sure she was tightly against him.

“Buffy.” Spike went to step forward but was pushed back and grabbed by two of the men again and could barely move.

“Ah uh, that time will come when you say your goodbyes to this one.” Angelus’s hand moved to the front of Buffy and traveled up her thigh making Buffy cringe.

“Don’t touch her.” Spike was held back and was still pushing aside the pain coming from his stomach.

Buffy looked at Spike and refused to cry, she had a feeling this was going to end badly but she wasn’t going to give up without a fight. Her hands weren’t tied as tightly this time so she could get out of them.

“So Will, this is how it’s going to work. You’re definitely going to die today but not before you give me everything back that you took from me. So basically I want your life, I’m the new you.”

“You’ve got to be kidding me? You want my identity?”

“Yeah, that includes your money, everything you own. Makes it easier to move away and start something new but with a clean state. You don’t give me the information I want,” Angelus pulled out a knife and held it to Buffy’s throat, “she dies.”

“Will don’t do it.” She felt the blade against her skin and let a few tears fall as she just stood there eyes locked with Spike.

“Alright, I’ll give you want you want. First I want to say a proper goodbye to Buffy, I didn’t get that last time.”

Angelus just smirked, “I suppose that is fair, since you will be dying and not actually coming back this time.” He walked himself and Buffy over to Spike, “Well go on, say your goodbyes.”

Spike reached up and touched Buffy’s cheek and felt her tears spill on to his skin. He leant in and kissed her cheek, “I love you.” He pulled back and they eyed each other before Angelus pulled Buffy back.

They kept looking at each other and Buffy just nodded to him before she bought her heel down hard onto Angelus’s foot. He cried out and she used all her strength and hit him hard in the stomach with both hands.

Spike struggled against the guys that were holding him and managed to knock one down. He got punched in the jaw and kicked in the stomach crying out as he felt pain like he’d never experience before. He doubled over and spat out some blood and he felt himself get kicked in the ribs again.
Buffy quickly got rid of the ropes tied around her wrists and kicked Angelus in the face knocking him over. His knife dropped to the ground and she picked it up before running over to the guy who was beating on Spike. Without thinking she shoved the knife into the mans side and heard him scream out. “Will, oh my God.” She went to bend down but fell down as she felt a pain in her thigh.

Angelus stood up with the gun pointed at her, just having shot Buffy in the thigh. “You’re gonna die bitch.”

Buffy frantically looked around and grabbed the knife from the guys side and pulled it out quickly.

Angelus pointed the gun at Spike, “But him first.” He smirked and just as he was about to pull the trigger he yelled out in pain and looked down to see the knife sticking out of his thigh. “You little bitch.”

Buffy looked over and saw the guy about to stab Spike, “Will watch out!”

He fell back just in time and the guy fell on top of him. Spike rolled over and started punching the guy repeatedly in the face, feeling blood on his knuckles.

Buffy looked up at Angelus and jumped up ignoring the pain in her leg and fought Angelus for the gun. Buffy got smacked in the face and stumbled back a little fighting back tears.

The man kicked Spike off him and he cried out in pain as his stomach was covered in blood from his wound bursting open. “That can’t be good.” He got kicked in the face and fell back on to the ground nearly unconscious. He looked over to see Buffy struggling for the gun and looked next to him seeing the knife on the ground. It was in his reach and just as the guy was about to shoot Spike he grabbed the knife and sat up, pushing the knife into the man’s stomach. He twisted the blade before pulling it out and watching the dead body fall next to him.

Buffy yelled out in pain as Angelus grabbed her by the hair and threw her to the ground. “You’re definitely feisty, maybe I’ll kill you first because frankly you’re a pain in the ass.”

Buffy turned over and looked up seeing Angelus standing over her. She felt scared for the first time since she had been captured. Tears were coming down her cheeks and she felt blood dripping from her nose and her wounds on her face. She closed her eyes not wanting him to be the last person she saw before she died.

Spike managed to grab the other gun and saw what Angelus was doing to Buffy. He was barely conscious and used all his strength and aimed the gun at Angelus.

Buffy opened her eyes once she realized it wasn’t Angelus’s gun that went off and watched as he fell on top of her. Buffy cried out and rolled his dead body off her and looked at Spike.

Spike dropped the gun from his hand and rolled onto his back still coughing up blood.

“Will!.” Buffy crawled over to Will and put his head in her lap, “Stay with me, please don’t die.” She looked around and saw her cell phone on the ground. She gently laid Spike back down and ran over and got it calling for an ambulance. She walked back over to Spike and leant down noticing he wasn’t moving. “No, no, no Will don’t leave me!” She shook him but got no response and started crying again, cradling him in her arms.

18 Months Later

Buffy walked into the gallery and made her way upstairs to her office. She looked down and smiled as she saw the photo of her and Spike together. She closed her eyes and remembered that perfect day. She felt a pair of arms wrap around her from behind and she leant into his embrace. “You know you shouldn’t sneak up on me like that.” She turned around and leant up to kiss her husband.

“I’m sorry. What are you even doing here? You know you should be at home resting; you’re very heavily pregnant Buffy. You could burst any moment.”

“Oh thanks for that. Now I know how you really feel, you think I’m a fat cow.”

Spike laughed, “Come on, luv. I think you’re bloody beautiful, you just should be resting.” He kissed her forehead, “I can take care of the gallery, after all it’s partly mine.”

Buffy smiled up at him, “I know, one of the best things we’ve ever done. But I never really thought we’d move back to Sunnydale and open a gallery together. But yet again I never thought we’d do anything ever again.”

“Buffy, we went through hell to get where we are today. I’m just glad that we’re ok and we’re getting our chance.”

“I know, me too. After what happened I just didn’t want to wait any more. Life is short so I’m happy that we decided to get married right away. I love you and I never want to go through anything that horrible again. I almost lost you for at least the third time in my life.”

Spike cupped her face in his hands, “You won’t ever again Buffy. We got our lives back and we’ve got a baby on the way. Nothing is more perfect.” He leant down and kissed her softly.

Buffy pulled back, “Oh no.”

Spike frowned, “What?”

“I think my water just broke.”

He looked at her, “Are you serious?”

“Look at the rug Spike. Oh God I’m having a baby.”

“Ok Buffy calm down, let’s go. I’ll call Joyce on the way to the hospital.” Spike and Buffy made their way downstairs, “Lorne, look after the gallery. We’re going to have a baby.”

Spike helped Buffy in to the car and they made their way to the hospital. Buffy cried out in pain as her first contraction hit and she grabbed on to Spike’s hand and squeezed it.

“Bloody hell, you’re freakishly strong.”

“That isn’t helping, I’m in labor.” She glared at Spike and breathed through her pain.

They pulled up at the entrance of the hospital and got out quickly, Spike running to get a wheelchair.

20 minutes later Buffy was laying back in the hospital bed screaming in pain as her contractions were closer together. “I feel it coming Will, it hurts.”

“Buffy it’s ok, you’re doing great. Just a little while longer and you can start pushing ok?” She brushed some hair out of her forehead and saw the doctor come in.

“Alright Buffy, you’re at 10 centimeters now, you can start pushing.” Spike held her leg up and grabbed her hand, “You can do it Buffy.”

Buffy screamed out as she pushed as hard as she could before falling back onto the bed breathing hard.

“Push again when you have the next contraction, just two more Buffy and you’ll have your baby.”

Buffy felt another contraction coming and screamed again and was told to push as hard as she could.

“Keep going Buffy, almost there.” Buffy kept pushing and then felt an emptiness as the baby was out. She felt back on the bed breathing hard and started crying a little.

“You’re new parents of a little baby girl, congratulations.” The doctor handed the baby over to the nurse to get cleaned up.

“Hear that Buffy? We have a little girl.” Spike kissed her forehead and watched as the nurse bought their baby over and handed her to Buffy.

“Wow, she’s so tiny.” She smiled down at her daughter and felt the tears starting again, “Hey baby girl.” She couldn’t have felt more happy right at this moment, “She’s absolutely perfect.”

Spike leant down and placed a soft kiss on Buffy’s lips before kissing his daughter’s forehead. “Definitely perfect, looks like her mother.”

Buffy laughed a little, “She’ll have your blue eyes for sure.” She rocked her back and forth and couldn’t believe that they had a daughter.
Spike walked out into the waiting room where Joyce, Dawn, Xander and Willow were waiting. “Would you like to meet my daughter?”

They all cheered and Dawn got up hugging Spike tightly, “I’m an Auntie!” Joyce walked over and kissed Spike’s cheek, “Congratulations daddy.”

They all made their way into Buffy’s room and crowed around her bed seeing the baby. “Wow she’s beautiful,” Willow said as she stood next to Buffy.

“I can’t believe she’s actually here, she’s just perfect.” Buffy kissed her daughter’s forehead and felt Spike sit next to her on the bed.

“So have you thought of a name for her?” Xander asked as he sat down across from the bed.

Buffy looked up at Spike and nodded telling Spike he could announce it. “Well we were thinking about Ashlee Joyce.”

Joyce’s eyes welled up with tears, “I’m so touched. She grabbed her daughters hand and gave it a squeeze.

“You’ve been there for all of us mom and we’ve always had that name in mind for our first child.” Buffy smiled and Spike grabbed Ashlee off her and held his daughter for the first time. “Xander, Willow? How do you feel about being Ashlee’s godparents?”

“Oh my God, are you serious?” Willow squealed a little but Xander calmed her down.

“We’d be honored Buffy, there’s nothing we’d like more.” Xander got up and kissed Buffy’s forehead.

Dawn moved over to Spike and looked down at Ashlee, “I see she got all the good looks from this side of the family.” She just smirked and Spike just shook his head.

“This will be you soon, you’re already half way there. Look at the size of that engagement ring!” Buffy pointed to the ring on Dawn’s hand.

“What? He’s rich and has good taste. But that’s so not the reason why I’m marrying him.”

Buffy just laughed and looked around the room, never being happier that her and Will got a second chance at happiness.

The End