So sweet and sad. The way you are bringing them together seems very organic and believable. I am still loving this story.

Author's Response: I'm so glad to hear you say that sweety. Indeed I'm trying to keep things realistic - ok, despite Murphy's Law throwing al kinds of wierd monkey wrenches their way - but that's part of what helps them along on the way towards love. Thanks for the great review darling - smooches.

Nicely done.

Author's Response: Thank you sweety - huggles.

A beautiful, emotional chapter and OMG when Spike asked Buffy to pretend to care - could that be any more moving? I'm not sleeping very well at the moment. Do you think I could borrow Spike - just to snuggle with of course?!! No need to ramble on because I've said time and time again how much I love your writing. x

Author's Response: YAY - I'm thrilled you were moved by Spike's words, it was meant to be intense and imapctful, thank you boo. Luv you lots and lots - smooches.

It's interesting to see a human Spike who hasn't dealt with death, when canon Spike is so used to it. A reverse in assurances.... Yeah, cuddling is addictive! Buffy's still so afraid she won't be able to keep a man...well, waiting only works if the man knows what he's waiting *for*. If she strings him along just for the fear of the unknown, when they both know what they want, he'll eventually have to push for a decision. It isn't fair. I hope he'll get her to reveal what she's hiding about the Riley relationship...

Looking forward to Cordy's latest take. Now that's a girl that seizes what she wants, LOL.

Author's Response: I never thought about it lie that, but you're right - it is interesting to see spike del with deth outide of canon. And oh, yeah, cuddling i more addicitve than any drug out there, hee - especially when its spike. And you hit on an interesting point no one else has yet - Buffy is insecure about 'not being able to keep man' - something I've tried to convey with very subtle undertones - very astute of you darling. As for him pushing, well, he may have to doa bit, yes, but it'll be for the best, for both of them. As for the Riley facts she's hiding - just wait til she reveals it, its a whopper, giggles. I think you'll really enjoy Cordy in next chapter - she's a hoot to write. Thansf or the fab review sweets - luv ya.

Awwww, what a great last sentence. I'm so glad that Spike is there to support Buffy. I can see how this will have a big impact on their relationship.

Author's Response: YAY - I'm so glad you see the potential this situation provides for our couple to realy come together. THanks for the awesome review sweety - huggles.

Looks like a little trip (even though sad trip) is in order back to Buffy's hometown. Can I suspect a certain Agent Jerk to be in Sunnydale while our lovely couple is there? Update soon.

Author's Response: Yes indeed - its off to Sunnydale. And to answer your question... hellllll no Riley won't be there, LOL. Never much cared for him. THanks for the review darling, next update will be this weekend - smoochies to you.

Almost, that was a great chapter title :p And they almost kissed :) Cute chapter, darling! Now I wonder who's calling, it better be important... *winks*

Author's Response: Hahahhahahahh, well..... it won't be good news, that's for sure. Thanks for the review darling - smoochies.

Spike has certainly grown in this story, and his show of support in this tragedy should show Buffy that he is well and truly there for her. Spike took charge, did what Buffy was unable to do. Xander was a peripheral character in the story, but his role in canon makes his death hit harder. This chapter was emotional and taut, and it pulled them together even further.

Author's Response: Indeed Spike will be showing her what he's really made of with no thought to himself. I did hate to kill off Xander, but I'm glad he wasn't included as a character here - made it a bit easier. I so hope you enjoy next chapter as our couple will become even closer. Thans so much for the review boo - hugs you tight.

First I am so sorry about your mother-in-law, for you and your family, but I am glad you got to spend some quality time with your dad. Sorry I didn't review last chapter, I actually got to read it today, as I have had my dad in the hospital, he is doing better, but I do understand when given a reprive.
I was really touched as to how Spike was there for her in a true way, having someone to lean on in times of losing a love one can be so hard, and to have someone there to help, to do and provide some comfort is so meaningful. It really shows greater depth to a relationship. So I must say great job. This story shows so much evolement of characters, and I love it. My thoughts continue to be with you and as always thanks.........take care Debbie

Author's Response: THank you darling, it was sad to let her go, nbut it was time and she's no longer suffering. I do hope your dad will get better, its never easy to see a loved one go through pain and suffering. - my prayers are with you and I'm happy he is recovering. Glad you liked how Spike responded to the situation with Buffy. He really does care for her a great dedal and it will continue to show in the next chapter as well. THank you for the lovely review sweety, many hugs/kisses and warm thoughts sent your way.

OMG! *Mouth drops open* I so didn't see Xander dying coming. Very riviting chapter though, kept me glued to my chair till the end. It nice to see Buffy n Spike growing closer on a more deeper level.

I hope everything is going well in RL. *hugs* And thank you for still taking the time to write and post.

Author's Response: I know - I don't think anyone saw it coming, but I felt it woud provide the perfect opportunity to bring our couple closer together. It seems that so far, things in my own RL have sowed down a bit gratefully, thank you boo. ANd thanks for the wonderful reivew - huggles.

Loved it!

Author's Response: THank yo9u darling - hugs.

Hey hun,
Sorry, I have been really absent for a while and am just catching up! I did try mail you to offer support from a distance but it got returned - guess I've been gone so much i missed an email change!!
Anyhoo - this chapter was great hun. The emotions are captured so well and I'm glad that at least amidst all the tragedy there is something positive emerging in terms of their developing relationship!
Thank you so much for everything you put into the story hun, take care.
Sarah
x

Author's Response: Oh sweety, it's good to see you again and I'm glad you got a chance to get caught up - and past my evil cliffy, lol. Huh - that's weird abut my email address, I didn't get anything from you but thank you so much for trying - snuggles you. Yeah, there had to be a bit of a tradegy, but it will bring forth better things in their relationship and help them in moving forwards. I'm so happy you enjoyed it al boo - hugs you tight and a big huge cyber kiss.