"The fact she was regularly cheating on black coffee still inspired random bursts of guilt, but the damn macchiato was too delicious for her not indulge in." -- Forgot about her black coffee thing. Love how she's slowly letting the world back in and breaking out of her shell. He started that, even if she is trying to push him away. Trying to minimize him. I've got to wonder now, that I'm my third time though this chapter if her breaking the door knob is a bit more than just normal freaked out flight response. Is she no longer a potential anymore? Or am I reading way to much into a weak door knob? And poor Anya and her hooker etiquette dilemma. I want to believe that she's waited too long to take our girl out, but nothing is ever simple for these people. I just hope that Spike swings around again before Buffy convinces herself that she doesn't care so very deeply about him. Still ready for more! Update soon, and if you don't before Christmas, have a great holiday!!

Author's Response: Black coffee? *shudder of revulsion* lol But I like to create these details for characters, such as (dis)likes, and this version of Buffy seemed to me like someone who'd enjoy black coffee. Got to agree with your view on how Spike was the catalyst for Buffy's rise in self-confidence. You read the chapter three times? That makes me very giddy! :D I'm not saying anything about the doorknob thing though. mainly just because I like to leave the reason behind it to your imagination. ;) Ah, Anya. You know, she's not even sure what she'll do at the moment so I guess you'll have to wait and see what happens there. In the next chapter, actually, so it shouldn't take too much time. If I don't update before Christmas, I want to wish you a very happy and stress-free holidays as well. :) Thank you for the wonderful review!!!