Spike's avid biting should have clued Buffy in, but actually watching a murder won't let her live in denial. Their relationship is brand new, but Spike's already a bit obsessed. If she says she never wants to see him again, I'll bet he'll just become better at keeping hidden as he stalks her.

I'm enjoying all the little details in this story: Joyce's drinking and Buffy being aware of prices. Her wanting to work out to get some definition and strength training was also entertaining. That "slayer" thing is still hovering, so training would be welcome for other vampires gunning for her.

Author's Response: Hmm, I think Buffy just sort of figured that the biting was some sort of vampire kink. But yeah, there's no way she can stay in denial or ignorance after seeing what she saw. And I'm glad you like the details here and there. I think details and little things are what make a story real. Thanks for reviewing!

Here via the Rogue Poet Awards. Sorry I haven't reviewed sooner, I was too busy devouring the story!

Fabulous story. The relationship between this less jaded Buffy and her Spike is riveting. I love their honesty with each other in this much more mature relationship.

Thank you for a wonderful read, I look forward to future installments.

Author's Response: Thank you! Don't worry about not reviewing, 'devouring' is a good thing, LOL. I'm glad you're liking the story. A more mature Buffy being the Slayer was something I wanted to explore. Thanks for reviewing and I hope you keep enjoying!

Spike's more involved than he wants either Wes or Buffy to know and youv did an excellent job making it appear he's just gone. Again, the alley capture was a complete surprise. I hope Buffy's right about Spike being her saviour...

Author's Response: Thank you! I'm glad you liked it! Yes, Spike tried to stay away, but it's a good thing he couldn't...

You created a compelling image of Buffy and Spike just trying to leave her troubles behind them. Hank has gotten them both in a bind. Buffy is collateral that Spike has started to care for. It's romantic and complicated and well written.

Joyce greeting them at the door with the announcement of the divorce and the trouble already knows Spike's not being paid. I wonder what their next conversation is going to entail.

Author's Response: I'm glad you liked Spike and Buffy's 'getaway' time. Yes, Spike has started to see her as more than a job... Although, I didn't mean for it to sound like Joyce knows Spike isn't being paid. She just knows something is wrong, that Hank has been hiding things, and he won't talk to Wesley.

Just read all 67 chapters over the past few days. Absolutely brilliant. I like Buffy so much better in this story. The way you've written both Buffy and Spike, their emotions, is so poignant. I can see why you would need a break. Looking forward to the rest of the story.

Author's Response: Thank you so much! Thank you for the compliments about Buffy and Spike's relationship, I'm glad you're liking it. Thanks for reviewing!

Buffy's mistrust of her father is making her feel isolated, so it's no wonder she turned to Spike. The kiss was charming, but in her drugged daze, I was glad Spike pulled back so quickly.

Buffy's bold pursuit pushed Spike into a corner, but it also was an excellent device for getting his secret out. Here's hoping Buffy is only wigged for a little while. She still needs Spike's help, vampire or not.

Author's Response: Yep, Spike's secret is out. Glad you liked the kiss, but yeah, it wouldn't do for it to go on too long, since Buffy was a bit out of it. Thanks for reviewing!

I loved Harmony immediately trying to hone in on Spike, but being met with dirty looks and a complete lack of interest. You did an excellent job lulling me into a false sense of security with the party, so when they were jumed in the parking lot I was very surprised.

Author's Response: Glad you liked Harmony! Yes, Buffy might be just a little territorial when Harmony tries to move in on Spike... Thank you! I'm glad you liked the chapter!

amazing as usual

Author's Response: Thank you!

What a great, great chapter. You've tied them so closely together, that their totally different natures should feel restricted amid the tangle - but they don't. Spike lies awake and although he is not having a crisis of conscience, he has, and he knows it, reached the point of decision. No longer the want, take, have concept: it's going to have to be want and take or want and have. The soul-searching of this soulless vampire in the depths of the night whilst clutching his very alive, ensouled girl to his side - it's entrancing.

Your story has such depth.

Author's Response: Thank you so much! Yes, they have different natures...a vampire and a Slayer who should be wrong for each other, but are so completely right. Spike has indeed come to the time of decision. Thank you for the compliments; I'm glad you liked the imagery of him holding her while he ponders things. Thanks for reviewing!

Just beautifully written.

Author's Response: Thank you!

Things are getting deep on a very emotional level for Spike. I can feel his internal struggle between his old urges and - what his life without Buffy would be like. I like that sort of inner turmoil - it tends to bring out the best in people/vamps. And I'm sure whichever which way he chooses, he'll choose wisely, just hopefully not too late, or rather untimely. You're direction with this fic so far has been been well executed and this chappy is no exception. Love the way his emotions just poured over to make me truly feel for him. Looking very forward to the next installemnt sweety. As always - a brilliant chapter, and i hope when you take yout break, it will regenerate you - hugs you tight and lots of encouragement towards writing more. I feel you - I really do, on needing a break. And hey, if you feel the need at any point, you're welcome to contact me as I'm going thru the same thing - needing a break - and although for different reasons, I'm here as a fellow author if you need an ear. I adore your style and passion and the impact you bring to your stories. You're brilliant sweety, truly brilliant as a writer. Much encouragment from me to you personally and here if you need me for an ear in any capacity. Much luv, IBE.

Author's Response: Yes, Spike is definitely at the point where he realizes a choice has to be made. And I think it definitely is a struggle. Even as much as he wants Buffy, it's more than just changing his diet, it's going against his basic nature. It's not something that he can just decide to do one day, or do just because she wants it. He has to want to change. I'm glad you liked the chapter, and thank you for all the compliments! I hope a short break will be good for me, too. I know where the story's going, but keeping up with a chapter a week is beginning to wear me down a bit. (Are you on LJ? *goes to check*) Thank you so much for the review, and I'm glad you liked the chapter!

OHHH I HOPE HE PICKS HER AND TELLS HER SOON!! i LOVE this story and am so happy that u updated. im so glad that he needs her so much and that hes willing to even consider giving up blood for her. i really hope that he does wats right for her and that she finally admits that she loves him. also i hope that everything works out and that they end up together and happy. PLEASE update as soon as u can, i CANT wait to read wat he chooses. THANX

Author's Response: Thank you so much! Yes, Spike is thinking about decisions he needs to make... I'm glad you liked it and thanks for reviewing!