May 1994
Harmony Kendall’s 13th Birthday Party
Kendall Manor | London, England

“What is she doing here?” sneered Cordelia Chase. “I thought you said no losers would be allowed to your thirteenth birthday party.”

“My parents insisted that Puffy Buffy be invited. It has to do with her father being garnering the Ambassador position to the United States; and daddy wanting to align himself politically with the Halsey-Summers family,” squeaked Harmony.

Cordelia could only nod her head in understanding. Children of their breeding learned from an early age that politics played a great role in not only where you stood in their society but also how much money one was guaranteed to make with certain allegiances.

To the outsider, Elizabeth “Buffy” Anne Halsey-Summers, or Puffy Buffy by her peers, was an overweight tween undergoing the awkward stage that was puberty. She had about an extra 25lbs on her petite frame which Joyce tried to rationalized as baby fat. The truth of the matter was, Buffy would much rather sit in her room or in one of the many drawing or garden rooms at her disposal with a plate of Pepperidge Farm Brussels and read Art books and magazines.

If Buffy wasn’t reading, then she was trying her hands at different forms of art. This ranged from painting (water and oil), to clay pottery. Hank firmly drew the line at sculpting of any kind. She can admire the statues and metal work all day long, but she could not pick up the tools necessary for that form of art at the risk of her hands.

As much as her mother and grandmothers tried, Buffy was not interested in the latest fashions or having spa days. Buffy rationalized that her interest in the art would ruin any manicure that the women in her life would insist on. Joyce hoped that while she continued to love art the way she did, Buffy would one day begin to take interest or pride in her appearance. Until then, that duty fell on Joyce and Buffy’s grandmothers.

“This fete is becoming boring,” Cordelia commented.

The guys were hanging over by the food table – talking and drinking; while the rest of the girls were either in their respective cliques or sitting on couches looking as though paint was drying.

“Oh no,” cried Harmony. “I gave the planner the specifics of what I wanted for the party.”

“I can tell,” Cordelia replied dryly as she looked around at the pink cotton candy and unicorn theme. “But I have a way to make it interesting,” as Cordelia signaled for Harmony to come closer.

Buffy was absolutely bored. In order to stave off the massive urge to run screaming from the party, she walked the halls of Kendall Manor and inspected the paintings (mostly originals) lining the wall. Suddenly, Buffy felt as though someone was following her.

When she turned to look, no one was there. She continued on, but the feeling did not waiver. Every couple of steps, Buffy would turn and look around, but not see anyone. When she turned back to look at the sculpture of Artemis at the end of the hall, Liam Angelus popped out.

“You startled me,” Buffy gasped clutching her chest as she tried to get her breathing under control.

“Sorry,” replied Liam nonchalantly as though he was anything but. “What are you doing here?” he asked.

“Just admiring some of the artwork that Kendalls’ have,” Buffy replied.

“Oh.” Liam and Buffy stood there awkwardly for a couple of minutes. Neither knowing what to say or do next.

Sixteen year-old Liam “Angel” Angelus was the most popular guy in Buffy’s age group. Next to the princes, all of the girls wanted to date or been seen with Angel.
The guys wanted to hang out with him as he had access to all of the clubs and bars in London and the trappings that came with them. Based on the type of person he was, Buffy couldn’t understand why he was standing here talking to her.

As if he sensed her question, “I’ve been checking you out tonight.”

“Oh,” replied Buffy. Stupid girl, is that all you can say? Oh wait, he is speaking again.

“I’m sorry; can you say that again, please? I didn’t quite hear you.”

“I said, ‘you look lovely this evening.'"

This caused Buffy to blush and look away from Angel. "Th...thank you," Buffy stammered.

"Hey, they are playing my favorite song, " replied Angel as 'The Sign' by Ace of Base. "Come with me and let's dance."

Before she could decline the offer, Angel took hold of Buffy’s hand and escorted her back to the ballroom where the party was being held. As soon as they entered, all of the young folks started to murmur.

“I don’t believe this,” whispered one girl loudly.

Another girl “What is Angel doing with her ?”

One of the blokes joked loudly “Oi, Angel’s dated all of the pretty dames, so now he is reduced to dating livestock.”

All of the partygoers laughed at that statement.

To add insult to injury, one of the girls chimed in with “Look at her outfit and makeup. Puffy, who said you look good in that outfit...because they lied. You look like someone put lipstick on a pig.” This caused more laughter at Buffy’s expense.

As Buffy turned to look around at all the people laughing at her, she couldn’t help but notice that Angel was no longer standing next to her. Instead Angel had moved away from her and was now standing with Cordelia and Harmony laughing along with the others.

“You were right, Cordy, this is exciting,” laughed Harmony as all of the partygoers continued to watch tears stream down Buffy’s face.

Buffy ran crying from the room and out to the labyrinth gardens to be alone.

Standing off to the side, was William Giles intently watching the spectacle before him. Next to him was his girlfriend of two years, Drusilla.

tbc

May 1994
Harmony Kendall’s 13th Birthday Party
Kendall Manor | London, England

Buffy continued to run blindly thru the labyrinth gardens on the Kendall estate. Finally she came to rest at a bench in the middle of the garden.

I don’t understand what I could have possibly done for them to treat me this way. Buffy’s thoughts were running a mile a minute. It seems that I am always the butt of a cruel joke.

As Buffy continued to be deep in her thoughts, she was too preoccupied to hear anyone walk up.

“Here you go,” said the voice as a handkerchief was waved in front of her face.

Buffy looked up and into the most cerulean blue eyes she had ever seen.

Eighteen years-old William Giles was standing with Drusilla, his girlfriend of two years when the spectacle began. Although he did not intervene to put a stop to the taunting of the other kids to Buffy, the poet in him felt bad for the girl. Under long lashes, William; or Spike as Drusilla named him, watched as Buffy ran from the room and headed into the gardens.

“I’ll be back, my dark princess;” Spike said to Drusilla.
“Yes, go and comfort Sunshine,” cooed Dru.

So here he was, standing in front of a sobbing 13 year-old waving his handkerchief in her face.

“Thank you,” sniffled Buffy.

“May I sit down for a second?”

Buffy simply nodded her head. They sat silently for a couple of minutes with only Buffy’s sniffles breaking the silence.

Not knowing how to start, Spike just jumped right in “I’m William, but my friends call me Spike.

“I’m Buffy,”

“So I heard in the other room,” replied Spike. “You shouldn’t take it personal.”

Buffy just gave Spike a blank stare.

“I mean, sometimes it is easier to make fun of something or someone that they do not understand. I am not condoning their actions, but you have to look at it from their view.”

“Look at it from their view,” scoffed Buffy. “’Don’t take it personal’? Is your explanation on how they acted supposed to make me understand why they all chose to hurt me? Make me feel better? So what now? Should I go back in to the party smiling and let them all continue to insult me?” Buffy’s emerald eyes shone brilliantly with anger.

“No, that’s not what I am saying at all,” Spike replied. “I guess I don’t know what I am trying to say, obviously it is the wrong thing.”

“Obviously,” muttered Buffy.

“Look, I saw you were upset and I wanted to see if there was anything I could do to help. I am sorry to have bothered you,” Spike stated as he got up to leave.

“Wait.”

Spike turned around and looked at Buffy. Buffy did not say anything for a couple of minutes.

“Well, what is it?”

“There is a way you can help me,” stated Buffy. “Could you help me with getting a cab home, Spike? I don’t want to be here anymore.” Buffy looked up at Spike.

“I will even do you one better and have my driver take you home.”

As Spike walked Buffy to the front of the house, they chatted about safe topics like the weather and if England had a chance for the World Cup this year. Both never realized as they continued their walk that four people were watching them.

Spike provided strict instructions to his driver and made sure Buffy was comfortable in the backseat.

“Well, you should be on your way.”

“Thank you, Spike. I really appreciate this. I’m sorry about earlier. I was upset and I took it out on you.”

“Hey, I understand. Just continue to be yourself. People will always notice the one who stands out from the crowd, rather than those that follow along, like sheep.”

As Buffy stared at Spike, she felt a connection to him, like a kindred spirit.

Buffy blinked breaking the trance between herself and Spike. “Thanks again.”

“Good-bye, Buffy”

As Spike watched the car drive away, he couldn’t help but wonder will I ever see her again?

As Spike entered the ballroom, Angel walked up to him.

“So, what was that all about?” asked Angel.

“What are you talking about, mate?”

“I’m talking about you and Puffy Buffy,” replied Angel.

“Angel, if you know what is good for you, you won’t ever call her that again,” growled Spike.

"So what, you felt charitable and needed to do your good deed for the day?"

"What I do is my business," replied Spike. "If I want to make sure a person is okay because she is being bullied by a bunch of sheep that only have money and title going for them and nothing else, then that is my business."

At Spike's outburst, the room suddenly grew quiet.

"Yes, I said it. I hope you all are proud of yourselves," as Spike looked around the room. He made a point at staring particularly hard at the individuals that cause Buffy the most distress.

No one could help but look ashamed of their actions. Well, maybe with the exception of 3 individuals.

Although he did not agree with Spike's statement, Angel knew better than to cross him. Realizing it was in his best interest, Angel simply walked away from Spike.

“My Spike is tainted by the Sunshine,” whined Dru. “I must not let him be burned by its rays.”

“Could she be any weirder,” Cordelia whispered to Harmony as they overheard Dru’s statements.

Dru walked up to Spike and kissed him with an abundance of passion.

“My parents are in Ibiza this weekend. We have the house to ourselves. We can play at being old marrieds, if you like. We can do all sorts of naughty things. Mummy will make sure you enjoy it.”

Spike held his dark princess closer. “I would like that a lot. We have to wait until my driver returns before we get out of here. In the meantime...” Spike trailed off as he lead Dru out to the gardens for some alone time.

Dru simply nodded her head thinking to herself: Tonight, I will make you forget all about the Sunshine.

tbc

May 1994
Halsey-Summers Residence
Summers’ Townhome | London, England.

Buffy thanked Spike's driver for bringing her home.

As she walked up the stairs to her home, the door opened before she could ring the doorbell.

“Good evening, Miss,” replied Jeffrey the Summers’ butler. Jeffrey had been in the Summers’ employ for over 10 years.

“Good evening, Jeffrey”.

“You have come home early, Miss. Is everything alright?” Jeffrey was concerned. Although there was never any fraternization with the help, the staff all doted on Buffy and cared for her as if she was one of their own.

“It was okay, Jeffrey. I…I just got a little bored and wanted to come home early,” stammered Buffy as the events from Harmony’s party replayed in her mind.

“Okay, Miss. I shall let your mother know that you are home.”

“Thank you, Jeffrey. Please let her know that I am in my room.”

“Yes, Miss.”

Buffy entered her bedroom. As she crossed the room to her bed, she put on the television. She slipped out of the dress she wore to Harmony’s birthday party and got more comfortable in a t-shirt and her painting overalls.

As she crossed her bedroom to a smaller room, she tried to find solace in finishing the painting left on her easel. She opened the French doors, but the warm weather with slight breeze detracted Buffy from her initial mission. Deciding that her heart was not into painting at the moment, Buffy chose to stand on her balcony and think.

Is my life going to be like this forever? When will the taunting end? Is there ever going to be someone out there that really sees me? I’m not sure I have the strength to continue on like this, if I have to see the same people who make fun of me every day at school for the next nine years of my life? As Buffy thought about those things, a gentle knock was heard.

Buffy quickly wiped away the stray tears and provided a shaky “Come in.”

Joyce entered her daughter’s suite and instinctively knew to enter the smaller room where Buffy liked to paint.

“Hello, darling; how was the party?”

“It was okay,” Buffy lied. “I was feeling a bit bored and wanted to come home.”

“I see,” Joyce replied. Joyce noticed the dried tear tracks on Buffy’s face. As a mother, she was concerned but did not want to push her daughter in case Buffy completely shut down.

“How are things going with packing up the homes and offices for the move to America,” Buffy inquired.

Joyce saw the question for what it was, a change in topic. 'Buffy’s hiding something,' Joyce thought. “Oh you know, it’s hectic but exciting at the same time. It gives me an opportunity to do some house cleaning as well as buy items we will need in America.”

Something in Buffy clicked and she came up with a wonderful idea. “Do you think it is too late for me to come with you and Dad to America?” inquired Buffy.

“I thought you were excited to start high school with your friends in the fall?” Joyce asked. “It was the whole reason why we made arrangements with your grandmothers so that you could stay here and be with your friends.”

“Okay, forget I asked,” responded Buffy. “It’s just that I am going to miss you guys so much and I felt it would be a new adventure if I went with you to America.”

“Well, I will need to talk to your father about this, but I know I would love to have my baby with me in America.”

“Thanks, Mum”

“Sure.” As Joyce got up to go talk with Hank about the change in plans, Joyce turned to her daughter once more, “Oh Buffy, when you are ready, I expect you to tell me what really happened.”

With that last statement, Joyce left Buffy alone in her room.

Later that evening...

As they were getting ready for bed, Joyce and Hank were discussing items needed for their move to America.

“There is one more item that needs to be added to the list for our move,” stated Joyce.

“Oh, what is that?”

“Buffy,” was Joyce’s simple answer.

“I don’t understand. I thought everyone agreed that Buffy would remain in England and stay with Mum or Bitsy,” replied Hank.

Joyce sighed. “I think something happened today at the birthday party for that Kendall girl. When I stopped by her room earlier tonight, she had been crying. All of a sudden, Buffy asked if she could move with us to America.”

“Well kids will be kids,” replied Hank. “We can’t just provide an escape for Buffy every time someone does something mean to her.”

“I understand that, Hank. I really do. However, I don’t want to leave our daughter in a situation where she is constantly being bullied by her peers. If coming to America will give Buffy a fresh start, then I am all for it.”

“What about my mum and Bitsy? They will be devastated,” replied Hank.

“Of course Kat and my mum will be devastated. Buffy is their only grandchild. But I think Buffy’s well being will far outweigh the need for her to remain here,” replied Joyce.

Hank sighed. “I guess it is settled then. Buffy will come with us to America. On Monday, let’s arrange to get Buffy’s school records and start investigating where she should go to school.”

“Thank you, darling.” Joyce kissed Hank on the cheek. “I will work with my personal secretary to get Buffy enrolled in an excellent school in America.”

The following day, Joyce and Hank went to Buffy’s room.

“Well, we have some news,” Hank started. “You will come with us to America.”

“Thank you, thank you!”

“Buffy, you will have to understand, that we cannot give you an escape every time something goes wrong or if people do not treat you kindly,” Hank replied. “That is not how life works. We grow when we persevere thru our challenges. In granting your wish to come with us to America, we are also hurting two people who love you just as much as us… your grandmothers.”

“What your father is trying to say,” Joyce tried to start.

“No, Joyce. Buffy needs to hear this,” interrupted Hank. “I am not sure what happened at the party, but rest assured, young lady, that this will be the last time in a long while where we will offer you an escape. If you get to America and decide you don’t like it there, too bad. There is an American saying ‘when life gives you lemons, make lemonade’, so I suggest you get an excellent recipe for lemonade. Is that understood?”

“Yes, Dad.”

“Okay. Now come give me a hug and a kiss, I must be off to work on packing up my office. Please be sure to help your mother in the packing your things and any additional items with which she may need your help. Also be sure to spend plenty of time with your grandmothers before we leave in August.”

“I will, Dad. Thank you again,” Buffy replied as she kissed her father good-bye.

Between May and August, Buffy helped Joyce pack up the house and on a couple of occasions went to her father’s office to assist him with packing. When she wasn’t packing, Buffy would spend time with both of her grandmothers, Kat and Bitsy, as much as possible. It was very tiring and bittersweet for Buffy, but she knew that she would begin a new adventure in America… a chance for her to start over.

Due to the amount of packing and running of errands for her mum; Buffy had lost quite a bit of weight. She lost the “baby fat” that Joyce previously rationalized and then some. The weight loss allowed her to have more energy and her clothes to fit a little more loose on her frame. She also started to take a little extra care in her appearance. Both Joyce and her grandmothers noticed the changes in Buffy.

If there was any downtime, which was very rare, Buffy’s mind would wander towards Spike. Often when that happened, she would look at the handkerchief that he had loaned her. As though splashed with cold water, Buffy would remind herself that Spike had a girlfriend. Besides, what 18 year old would be interested in a 13 year old kid? She knew it was just a crush, but he had been so kind to her on that day. Catching herself, she would quickly put away the item.

It was the Summers’ family last week in England. All the last minute items had been addressed and double checked. As it was Thursday, Joyce and Buffy met Kat and Bitsy at the exclusive day spa for a final day of pampering. Joyce had Hank’s black card to take care of all expenses for his four favorite ladies. Once the spa day was complete, the ladies had tea at the Fortnum Tea Room. It was a bittersweet day, as all four ladies knew it would be the last time in a long while that such a perfect day like the one they had would occur.

Given that Hank and his family were leaving early in the morning, tearful goodbyes were exchanged between the Halsey-Summers clan. Even Hank shed a few tears. The next morning, as Hank, Joyce and Buffy boarded the Summers private plan; all Buffy could think about with a smile on her face was 'America, here I come.'

tbc

March 2001
Afternoon Tea
St. James Restaurant | Fortnum and Masons | Piccadilly, England

It was a weekly ritual.

Every Thursday, Lady Katharina Summers and Lady Bianca Halsey met at the St. James Restaurant at Fortnum and Masons for afternoon tea.

The two women had a standing reservation at Fortnum's for as long as they could remember. It was here that both women met for the first time, at the tender age of five, from which a lifelong friendship began. The friendship also stemmed from their mothers naming both women after the two sisters in Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew.

The ladies often attended Afternoon Tea, and on special occasions Champagne High Tea, with their mothers and grandmothers. At first, both the Halsey and Summers families each had their own table at Fortnum’s. But as the friendship between Bianca and Katharina continued to grow, all the women in both families found it easier to share one large table. As the lives of the two ladies constantly changed; school, boyfriends, husbands (one each), children (again one each) and later a shared granddaughter; the one constant in their lives besides each other was afternoon tea.

Dating back to 1705 with the first set of Halsey/Summer women, both Katharina and Bianca hoped to continue the 300+ year-old tradition with Joyce, Bianca’s daughter; and Buffy. Their usual table, a table set for four as often the women would entertain a guest or two for tea, had a perfect view of the exterior as well as the interior surroundings of the tea room, allowing the women to see and be seen as well as comment on all happenings occurring around them.

The staff at Fortnum and Masons knew never to give away this prized table on Thursdays between 2 and 4pm. Even when ownership of the company changed hands this information was also transitioned to new owners. The Halsey/Summers women as much a fixture to the building as the afternoon tea menu itself. Although they would try, dignitaries, or worse actors, would try and demand that spot. All knew that the table belonged to the Halsey Summers clan, close friends of Princess Anne, and would remain so.

It was at the weekly ritual, that the two ladies began to discuss their rarely seen grand-daughter.

“I think it is time, Kat...,"stated Bianca.

"Time for what, Bitsy?" replied Kat reverting back to the nicknames they used for one another since they were little girls.

"I think it is time for Buffy to take her place in British society. She turned 20 this year, and the next two years should be a time in which she is seeking a potential husband so she can give us great-grandbabies..." Bianca trailed off with a smile.

Kat simply shook her head and smiled at the 'Bitsy-logic' that was so often employed by her beloved friend.

"Although, I would like to play with fat great-grandbabies myself," replied Katharina; "I believe the times and goals for women have changed drastically from when you and I and even Joyce were young."

"Hey!" replied Bitsy. "I'm only 5 years older than my grand-daughter."

"And yet, you do not look a day over 60," deadpanned Kat. "Just you remember who you are lying to about your age, Missy. Save it for Lord Wilmington who keeps sniffing around your mansion." cackled Kat in return.

Bitsy just huffed and turned her head from Kat as the other woman continued to laugh.

"Anyway, back to the matter at hand." replied Bitsy as a few sniffles continued to escape from Kat. "I believe it is time that Buffy indeed takes her place in society even if she is not ready to marry. We haven't seen her in since she was 13 - the summer before she started high school." Bitsy sighed.

"I agree with you wholeheartedly Bits," stated Kat as she gently patted the hand of her friend. "My only concern is would London be ready for Buffy? She has spent the most important and formative years of her young adult life in America. She is bound to have instilled in her the free-willing thoughts and mores those Yanks tend to have, and who knows what type of people she hangs out with...," Kat continued on with her tirade.

"I have an idea." stated Bitsy. "Let us send a letter to Hank and Joyce requesting they return home."

"Perfect." replied Kat. "I know for a fact that Hank's tenure as Ambassador is coming to an end, and he has expressed in his letters to me that he and Joyce have both wanted to return to England for some time. The only reason they continue to stay in America is for Buffy."

"Buffy has one more year of college left." commented Bitsy. "Why doesn't she finish her last year here in England? Between the both of us, we can pull some strings to have her admitted into Oxford to finish her work. I know my Edmond and your Henry would roll in their graves, if Buffy becomes the only Halsey-Summers to not graduate from Oxford,” Bitsy mentioned their deceased husbands who the two women still loved dearly. “And if she wants to continue, Buffy can work on her graduate and post-graduate work there as well."

"I don't know, Bits. Maybe we should discuss this with Hank and Joyce?"

"No, no, no... we will guilt trip them into making it so." replied Bits. Kat gave Bitsy a shocked look. "What!?, we are mothers and grandmothers. Guilt tripping our children is a privilege in order to get what we want. Besides, I wouldn’t be sitting here complaining if they didn’t make that last minute switch so many years ago.” Bitsy was referring to sudden change in plans that allowed Hank and Joyce to take Buffy with them to America. “We simply inform them that there has not been generation of the Halsey-Summer family that has not graduated from Oxford, and we do not intend to start now. What is Buffy's major?"

"Art/Art History, I believe. She takes after Joyce." Kat replied with a smile.

Bitsy smiled as well at the mention of her daughter's name. "Then it’s settled. We will send a letter to Hank and Joyce requesting they come home and bring Buffy with them. It is time she became the proper Lady and heir to the Halsey-Summer titles and fortunes that we expect of her. "

The women spent the rest of the afternoon at Fortnum's, drafting the letter which Kat planned to send to Hank.

tbc

March 2001
British Embassy | Washington, DC

Ten days later, a lilac-scented letter arrived at the British Embassy in Washington, DC. All personnel at the embassy knew that the letter was from Lady Katharina Summers as she absolutely hated the internet and the contraption called email and was an old soul who continued to believe in the art of letter-writing.

The entire embassy knew that any letters sent from either Lady Summers or Lady Halsey was to be given immediately to Hank or Joyce upon arrival. Once the staff saw the letter from Lady Summers, Hank's assistant quickly knocked on his office door before quietly entering the suite. Hank was currently on an overseas call with the British Prime Minister, but once he saw his mother's letter, he quickly made an excuse to end the call and devote his full attention to the letter now resting on his desk.

Hank buzzed his assistant and asked not to be disturbed for the next 30 minutes. He quickly opened the letter and read the following content:


My Darling Hank;

I hope all is well with you and Joyce. Bitsy and I are doing fine as two widows possibly can, while our children and grandchild are away from us. We continue to keep each other's company to stave off the loneliness here in England. Although, I must say, Bitsy has sort of an admirer in Sir Charles Wilmington. I believe he has always fancied her, but as you know Bitsy's heart will continue to belong to Edmond, Joyce's father. Sir Charles often comes to visit and dine with her at the Halsey home in Hyde Park. We still continue to meet for our regular Thursday afternoon tea at Fortnum's. At some point, we had both hoped that Joyce would be able to resume joining us on a regular basis, as well as have Buffy partake in the long standing tradition.

Speaking of tradition, it was at our most recent gathering, that the topic regarding our grand-daughter was discussed. Bitsy and I were just mentioning the other day, how we have not seen Buffy (barring the photographs that Joyce has religiously sent us) since your move to America eight years prior. We also noted that whenever you and Joyce would return home to visit, Buffy always had other plans that prevented her from seeing her grandmothers. It personally hurts us to feel that in some way, Bitsy or I may have been the reason behind why our only grandchild would refuse to see us. We would love to have an opportunity to make amends for any ill-feelings we may have caused our sweet bunny.

In your previous letters to me, I understand that at the end of May, your tenure as Ambassador to the United States will come up for renewal. As a proud mother, I must say that you have done an extraordinarily good job in this position. But you and I have discussed in previous letters and telephone calls the possibility of you returning to England in July. This has also been mentioned to Bitsy from the letters and conversations she has had with Joyce. Please say that you, Joyce and Buffy will come home in July. Both Bitsy and I miss you all terribly. I know that your hesitancy to return home stems with Buffy and how she may feel leaving California and her friends. I understand that this is her last year at University. Bitsy and I are willing to make arrangements for Buffy to finish her education at Oxford. As you know, our families have a legacy system at Oxford and it also helps that I continue to sit on the Board of Trustees. As Joyce can attest, Oxford continues to have one of the best Art Departments in the world. Also, being in Europe will afford Buffy better opportunities to travel to various European countries (chaperoned of course) to view the artistic treasures that Europe has to offer. The other benefit of having Buffy here in England with the rest of the family is that she can begin to take her role as Lady and heir to the Halsey-Summer titles and fortune more seriously.

Bitsy and I both hope for a positive outcome. We look forward to seeing you in July. Give Joyce and Buffy our love.

Sincerely,
Mum


Later that evening...

After dinner, Sir Hank and Lady Joyce went into the library as was the ritual whenever they dined at home together. As Joyce sat on the settee re-reading the letter from Lady Kat, Hank stood by the fireplace sipping his brandy.

"Have you made a decision yet, darling?" inquired Joyce after she finished reading the letter.

"No, dear... I thought it best to discuss this with you first." replied Hank.

"Well, I have wanted to return home to England for a while now..." Joyce trailed off. "It's just, that my heart is torn."

"How so?" queried Hank.

"On the one hand, I want to go home and resume my life back in England. Maybe teach art classes like I used to before we came to America. I also want to be closer to both Mum and Kat. I miss them terribly as well. But on the other hand, there is you and Buffy."

"Why do you mention me?" asked Hank, probing Joyce further for her thoughts.

"Hank, I know you love this job. I also know that earlier this month, you were strongly leaning towards renewing your tenure as Ambassador for another 2 years." Joyce stated.

"Honey, I was only thinking of renewing, for the sake of Buffy. I too am feeling a bit homesick. I have performed my job for the past eight years. I want to get back to England and resume my place in the House of Lords. Also, I have been thinking about the possibility of joining the partnership with Giles' law firm. I would have moved us back home sooner, but Buffy has been so happy here." Hank stated.

"You have been thinking about this a lot haven't you?” Joyce giggled. "I guess we both have a common denominator in this scenario."

"Buffy" both Hank and Joyce stated in unison.

"Well, I guess it's decided then." Joyce stated.

"Yes. We return home to England in July." Hank stated sitting next to his wife, gently pulling her into her arms. "I will notify the Prime Minister in the morning of the decision and start looking for my replacement."

"There is only one thing left to do." muttered Joyce, feeling the warm glow of being in her husband's arms.

"Hmmm, what's that?" replied Hank.

"How do we get Buffy to come with us?"

tbc

May 2001
Memorial Day Weekend
Buffy Summers’ Apartment | Sunnydale, CA

Lord Hank and Lady Joyce Summers decided to travel to California to break the news to Buffy. They knew that the Memorial Day Weekend was coming up, and it would afford them time to inform their daughter of their decision to head back to England, and request that she comes with them, as well as give the older couple extra time to finish packing up their belongings to have shipped back to the Summers' home in Mayfair by August.

Friday Morning:

"Hey Faith, I'm leaving now to go to work at the Gallery." Buffy yelled in the 2 bedroom apartment she and Faith shared.

"Ok, B. What time will you be back?" Faith asked.

"I won't be back until Sunday. Remember I told you my parents are coming in this weekend? Their flight gets in around 3pm this afternoon at the Sunnydale Airport" stated Buffy as she looked around the apartment searching for her keys.

"B, how are you getting there? Aren't you and cars un-mixy things?" Faith replied back.

"Aha," Buffy whispered to herself once she found her keys. "I hired a car to pick me up from the Sunnydale Gallery and then we are heading straight to the airport to pick up my parents." Buffy stated as she grabbed her overnight bag and jacket as she walked to the front door.

"Does Riley know you will be gone the majority of the weekend?" Faith asked.

Riley and Buffy had been dating for the past two years. Although Buffy considered Riley to be a sweet guy, she thought him to be a bit dull. Lately, he had started to pressure her into having sex. Trying to rationalize with Buffy that since he was planning to ask her to marry him anyway, he wanted to know what the difference was between having sex now as opposed to their wedding night. This type of pressure was causing Buffy to re-think the relationship. Buffy felt that Riley was a special person, but not that special. She had informed Riley that she needed time to think about it and welcomed the opportunity that her parents presented by visiting this weekend.

"Yeah, Riley knows." Buffy replied. "I plan on catching up with him on Sunday after my parents leave." Looking at her watch, Buffy stated "I gotta go or I am gonna be late."

"Ok, B. See ya on Sunday." replied Faith as Buffy closed the door.

Once Faith made sure Buffy was gone, she went to the telephone to dial the ten-digit number of her new boy toy.

"Hey Babe, it's me.” Faith stated in a husky voice. After a pause, she continued "You were right, Buffy is going to be gone until Sunday." After the speaker on the other end of the call spoke, Faith replied, “How about you come over around 8pm tonight?" She smiled broadly in to the receiver and stated "See you then, lover" as she hung up the phone.

Sunnydale Gallery...

Buffy arrived at the Sunnydale Gallery at 10AM. She enjoyed the opportunity of working at the Gallery as this was something she looked forward to doing as a potential career. What started off as an unpaid internship for college credits, turned into a paying job once the internship completed. Hans, the owner of the Gallery quickly realized what a prize he had in Buffy, and did not want to lose her. Every day that she came to work, she learned a new aspect regarding the daily operations of running a gallery. This included - making sure pieces of work arrived undamaged; the proper display of said pieces; negotiating appraisals and commission costs with both the artists and prospective buyers; to shipping the artwork to the next location with proper documents filed.

Each month the owner of the Sunnydale Gallery, Hans Hubert, would host an opening for an unknown artist. Buffy had participated in 3 of the showings so far. Although she would not be participating in tonight's gallery opening of sculptures by Claudia Reed, an artist from Fresno, she wanted to make sure to complete as much of the last minute details as possible to make sure the event was a success.

Buffy had completed 85% of the last minute details by the time the hired car came to pick her up around 2pm to take her to the airport. The remaining work needed to be completed by Warren, the owner's nephew. Warren Meers continuously tried to undermine Buffy's efforts at the Gallery. It really didn't help that Warren always pulled the nepotism card. To make matters worse, Hans would often side with Buffy on these heated debates. This did not make Warren any happier, and in turn, made Buffy's life a bit more difficult.

However, she always kept her promise to her dad and mum that she would try to work thru a difficult situation before attempting to run away again.

As she was leaving the gallery, Buffy felt torn. She had the drive to complete the rest of the work; however, time was not on her side. Since, she had not seen her parents since New Year's, she wanted to pick them up and take them to the Bed and Breakfast where they could relax and unwind.

"Warren, I'm leaving now to meet my parents at the airport. Are you sure you can handle everything?" Buffy asked innocently.

"Will you just leave already!" snapped Warren. "Geez, you are not the only person here who knows how to run a gallery."

Buffy bit her tongue to stop the quick retort she had for the idiot. Instead, Buffy replied "Okay, Warren. I just wanted to make sure you did not need any additional help. Here is the list of the remaining items that I did not get a chance to complete. Since you have everything under control, I'll leave you to it."

Although she had a slight tingling sensation at the back of her neck, Buffy left Warren at the Gallery to complete the last minute items for the showing later that evening. Realizing that she could possibly be making the monumental mistake of leaving Warren in charge; Buffy shrugged off the feeling of impending dread as she left the gallery to meet her parents at the airport.

tbc

May 2001
Memorial Day Weekend
Giles, Rayne & Summers (GRS) Law Firm | London, England

Friday evening – 8pm…

Rupert Giles, Senior Partner at GRS, started walking down the hallway to his son’s office.

Rupert, Hank and Ethan believed that all of their employees should have a proper quality of life. All work and no play made drones out of the lawyers and personnel associated with the prestigious law firm. So the agreement was that the office would shut down for the weekend every Friday @ 5:30pm.
However, there was one individual besides Rupert and Ethan that did not follow this rule.

The carpeted hallway muted Giles’ footsteps; hence giving him the element of surprise.

“Good Lord, William, what on earth are you still doing here?” Giles asked his son. “It’s Friday night, shouldn’t you be hanging out with your friends or on a date somewhere or whatever it is you young folks do nowadays?”

“Nice to see you too, dad” replied William. “I wish you would refrain from calling me William. It is Spike now and has been for the last at eight years.”

“I absolutely refuse to call my son after a piece of metallic hardware. I named you after my father, your grandfather. Besides, if your mother, God rest her, wasn’t calling you Spike; there is no way in Hell that I am going to.”

As the two men stared at each other, Spike finally started to chuckle.

“To answer your question, I just wanted to get the paperwork ready to file the continuance on Monday morning for the Hanover case. I plan to meet Cicely later this evening for drinks and a late dinner.”

“Oh, I see...” was Giles’ nonchalant reply. It seemed to Giles that in recent years, his son was making nothing but bad choices when it came to women. Drusilla really did a job on him.

Spike got defensive “Look, Da, it is my decision with whom I chose to go out. I know you have not liked my choices, but they are my choices.”

Hands going up in a surrender fashion, “I didn’t say anything,” Giles replied.

“You didn’t have to. What little you said and how you said it was plenty.”

“Listen, we have had a good week, let’s not end it by arguing, all right? I came here to speak to you regarding another matter.”

“Oh really, what’s that?” Spike calmed down.

“As you know, Hank Summers is returning in August to resume his position within the law firm,” began Giles. “He will no longer be a silent partner, but will participate fully in the day to day activities.”

Seeing that he had Spike’s attention, Giles continued, “I would like to the transition to be as smooth as possible for Hank. I need you to be the lead person on this.”

“Da, with my workload, I don’t think…,”

“I know this type of task is beneath you,” Giles interrupted. “But I really need someone that I can trust to handle this, not just for me but especially for Hank. It is really difficult to have uprooted one’s life and move to another country. Hank is doing it for the second time now. If I can at least not have him worry about the office aspect of the move, then let’s do it. I know without a shadow of doubt if the tables were turned, he would do it for me in a heartbeat.”

“I have to say your argument is convincing. I’ll take care of it.”

“Thank you. Oh, it is almost nine o’clock. You better leave if you still want to catch Cicely for supper.”

“I’ll say, I may come in tomorrow to finish up my work so I can start getting Hank’s office ready beginning Monday.”

Spike shrugged into his jacket and turned off the lights to his office. Both Giles and Spike took the elevator down to the garage and bid good-night to the night watchman, Gus.

Instead of continuing to his own car, Spike walked his father to his car. “So, Dad do you have any plans for this evening?”

“I plan to go home, eat the dinner that Margie has warming for me, then spend a relaxing evening in my library with a good book.”

“Sounds exciting,” chuckled Spike.

“Well, off with you. You have a Lady waiting.”

“Good night, Da’. Please ring if you need anything.”

Watching his father’s car pull off, Spike walked to his car, a 2000 Black Bentley Azure, to drive and meet Cicely at the pub.

***********
Sunnydale Airport
Friday Afternoon – 2pm…

Buffy stood by the hire car on the airport strip in the area designated for private planes. As she saw her parents plane taxi down the runway, she felt an excitement grow in seeing her parents. As her parents’ began to disembark from the plane, Buffy smiled as she quickly jogged up to them.

As their daughter was running towards them, Joyce could not help to think My daughter is a swan. Hank had similar thoughts California has had such a wonderful effect on her. It is a shame we are asking her to give this up.

“Mum, Dad! Did you have a wonderful trip? I am so glad you are here,” squealed Buffy.

“Well, hello to you too, darling,” Joyce gushed. She wrapped Buffy in her arms and gave a warm hug. As both women continued to hug one another, another set of arms wrapped around them both. Buffy smelled the scent of her father and suddenly received a kiss on the top of her head as was Hank’s normal custom when greeting his daughter.

The family stood there holding one another for a few minutes more, reluctantly letting go to move towards the hired car. By the time they reached it, all of Hank and Joyce’s luggage was already placed in the trunk.

Once the family was settled in the car, Buffy informed the driver to take them to the Sunnydale Bed and Breakfast.

“Mom, you will absolutely love this place. It is very quaint and it overlooks the cliffs near Sunnydale Beach.”

“That’s wonderful honey,” Joyce replied.

“Dad, I made dinner reservations for 7pm. That way, both you and mom can get settled and have a bit of a nap.”

“That would be fine, Buffy,” replied Hank. “What will you do while your mom and I rest?”

“I will be in the next room unpacking as well. I thought that I would stay at the same place with you guys so we can spend as much time together this weekend. I hope that is okay?”

“You don’t have to ask that, Buffy,” Joyce gently chastised. “Of course we would want you with us. We just thought that with the long holiday weekend, you may want to spend time with your boyfriend.”

“Yes, your boyfriend. What’s his name, again? ...Ripley?,” queried Hank.

“It’s Riley, Dad. You have been calling him Ripley for the last two years,” Buffy stated.

“What’s the difference? Riley, Ripley… they both sound the same to me,” Hank commented petulantly.

Joyce gently patted her husband’s thigh as a comforting gesture. Both women knew that Hank had a difficult time letting go that his little girl had grown into a beautiful young lady. The fact that she also had a serious boyfriend did not help the situation either.

“Buffy,” Joyce wanted to broach the subject gently. “At dinner tonight, your father and I would like to talk to you about a couple of things… nothing bad I promise but it will reveal the reason why we came here this weekend.”

“Sure thing, Mom,” Buffy could not help but wonder what it was that her parents’ wanted to talk to her about. Before she could ask…

“Ah, here we are. Sunnydale Bed and Breakfast,” Hank commented. Hank quickly left the car and helped both his wife and daughter from the vehicle. As the staff new that Lord and Lady Summers would be arriving, they were on hand to swiftly check them into the best suite and have the luggage placed in their rooms.

Buffy noticed her father trying to stifle a yawn.

“Dad, why don’t you and Mom rest for a bit. I will wake you when it is time to get ready for dinner @ the Sunnydale Inn.”

“That would be wonderful, darling.”

Buffy left her parents to get ready for their nap. As she gently closed the door to their room and entered hers, she couldn’t help but think - I wonder what is so important that they flew all the way here to tell me.

tbc

May 2001
Memorial Day Weekend
Sunnydale Inn | Sunnydale, CA

Friday evening...

Before the driver pulled up to the Sunnydale Inn; Buffy mentioned, "Daddy, the reservations are under Lord and Lady Summers." Although Buffy considered herself to be an independent, free-thinking individual; whenever she was in a public venue with her parents, she easily reverted to the training instilled in her as a child back in England.

"Thank you, Buffy," replied Hank.

Once the driver opened the passenger door, Hank exited the car first before turning to assist Joyce and Buffy out of the car. Once both ladies had left the vehicle, Hank offered Joyce his arm which she gladly and gently took with a soft smile to her husband and began the walk to the entrance of the Inn with Buffy following close behind.

As they entered the restaurant, the host greeted the family, "Good evening, Lord and Lady Summers and guest. Welcome to the Sunnydale Inn. Your table is ready, please follow me."

Once the host led the family to a secluded table in the restaurant; Hank made sure that Joyce and Buffy were comfortable in their seats before sitting down in the chair the host held out for him.

"Your dinner will be arriving shortly. In the meantime, would you like to select from our wine list," commented the host as he handed Hank the wine list.

"Not necessary," replied Hank. "We would like a bottle of your best champagne, please. Buffy, what will you have?"

"I will have a ginger ale, please," Buffy replied to the maître d’.

"Very good, Miss."

After the maître d’ walked away, Hank looked at Joyce and Buffy - "What did he mean that 'dinner would be out shortly'? How can the chef know what we would want for dinner, when I don't know what I want for dinner?" queried Hank. The lawyer in him was never far from the surface.

Joyce and Buffy looked at each other, "Well... daddy, once I knew both you and mum were coming for a visit, I emailed mum the menus from various restaurants in the area that could be possible places for dinner," stated Buffy.

"I selected this restaurant and had Buffy make the reservations, Hank," replied Joyce picking up from where Buffy left off. "Once we arrived at the hotel; I called the restaurant while you were taking a nap, and discussed tonight's meal with both the head chef and owner. I informed them of what we would have for dinner tonight and told them to begin preparation once we arrived. Given the doctor's orders regarding your diet, Hank, I did not want you to become too tempted or overwhelmed with the various choices offered in the menu."

Hank could only stare in disbelief at his wife. Joyce stared back as if daring him to challenge her decision. Once the shock of what had been done had worn off, Hank quickly shook his head and said, "Please tell me that I am not having salad for dinner."

"You're not having salad for dinner," Joyce parroted back.

"I'm serious, Joyce," this was no longer becoming a funny matter to Hank.

In recent years, due to the stress of working at the Embassy and the high cholesterol, Hank was just around the corner from a serious heart attack. During his last physical, the doctor placed Hank on a very strict diet and exercise regimen that Joyce and the embassy staff followed to the letter to prevent any possible heart attack or stroke from occurring. The only time that Hank was not required to follow the diet (an agreement decided between he and Joyce) was if there were plans for dinner at a restaurant with family members other than Joyce and their mothers. Needless to say, Hank was looking for to this dinner with Buffy just as much as seeing his precious daughter.

"Well, your health is important to me, Hank, even if you do not seem to think so," Joyce gently chastised her husband. "You have been doing so well with your diet that I did not want anything to occur to jeopardize and provide any setbacks. That is why I ordered for you a 10oz filet mignon with 2 vegetable sides and a small plain baked potato for your dinner tonight," Joyce smiled at her husband.

"Really?!" Joyce nodded her head in response. "That is absolutely wonderful, darling. I can't remember the last time I had steak. Thank you so much." Hank became as giddy as a child on Christmas morning. He started to look around the restaurant for where his meal would come from and began to wish dinner would arrive so that he could dig in right away.

"This meal does not come without a price," Joyce stated. "Tomorrow morning, we have to walk an extra 45 minutes for exercise."

Hank pouted. "Yes, dear…I promise," was his petulant reply.

Joyce leaned in towards her husband to give him a chaste kiss on the lips. After all, it would not do to have the British Ambassador and his wife photographed as making out like two sex-crazed teenagers in a public restaurant. Although Joyce and Hank had been together for over 27 years, which included a 3-year courtship and 24 years of marriage; it appeared that love had not grown weak with time, but stronger.

Buffy watched the display in front of her. She could not remember a time, when she did not see love reflected on both of her parents' faces when they looked at each other. Most kids and adults her age would definitely get squishy about the display in front of her, but not Buffy – so used to the public display of affection that her parents and both sets of grandparents exhibited towards one another, Buffy would have found it odd if her parents did not engage in the occasional PDA. The only thought going thru her mind as she watched her parents was ‘the type of relationship I have with Riley is not what I want. I want, no need something more. I wish I could find a love like the one my parents have.’

***********
May 2001
Memorial Day Weekend
William Giles Townhouse | London, England

Early Saturday morning....

Spike sat up in his bed, listening to the rain outside his window. The naked form of Cicely lay next to him. Foregoing dinner, the couple returned to Spike’s home for a nightcap, which lead to a marathon sex of that lasted a couple of hours. Once Cicely's appetite was finally sated she promptly asleep.

What Spike liked about Cicely was where he stood with her. They fulfilled each others' physical needs - nothing more was required of either one of them. Cicely did not want to engage in the emotional aspect of the relationship, and that was okay by him. However, most recently Spike had been feeling like he wanted or needed something more than just sex. This awakening was starting to make him a bit restless.

Slowly, Spike climbed out of bed careful not to wake Cicely. He grabbed a pair of boxers and slipped them on. Although he would have been content to walk around his home naked, he maintained a rule to cover his manly bits (unless they were otherwise being engaged) when there were guests in his home. With his cigarettes and lighter in hand, Spike walked into the living room to have a smoke.

Upon reaching the living room, Spike promptly lit a cigarette and took a deep inhale of nicotine. The cigarette along with the rain beating against the windows provided him with a sense of peace and calm.

Spike knew that he could not continue on the path that he was currently on in regards to his “relationships”. However, his heart was truly damaged by Drusilla that although he wanted love Spike was too wary to give his heart to another woman again. The moment that a woman he was seeing became too clingy or wanted to see where the 'relationship' was going, Spike would cut her loose and move on to the next willing body.

The one person who could possibly give him advice on how to move forward passed away five years ago.

Mum, what I going to do? Drusilla did a real number on me. It's funny, Mum. That even after all of the things she did; I still love her with all my being. At least, I think I do. I know that what I am doing to these women is wrong, but I am afraid to get hurt again... I wish you were still here to help me thru this. I know that you were the one person I could go to with all my problems as you always had the right answer. I'm damaged goods. No woman wants a man like me. Even Cicely has a beau that she loves even though she sleeps with me.

As Spike sat thinking, his vision became blurry. It wasn't until something wet hit his chest that he realized he had started crying.

tbc

May 2001
Memorial Day Weekend
Sunnydale Inn | Sunnydale, CA

Continuation of the family dinner...

The main course having been concluded, the Summers' family sat leisurely eating dessert and sipping on after dinner decaf coffee.

"Mum and Dad, what was it that you wanted to talk to me about?" inquired Buffy.

"Ah yes, I guess this is a good as time as any," replied Hank. Joyce gently patted Hank's hand as a sign of encouragement. Hank cleared his throat as Buffy looked at him expectantly. "Buffy, as you know these last seven years I have been the ambassador for the United Kingdom here in the States." Buffy simply nodded her head. "Well, it is that time again to decide whether to renew my tenure and remain in the States for another 2 years or return home to England. After a long discussion with your mother and grandmothers, in addition to the recent health concerns of my doctor; I have decided not to renew my tenure as UK Ambassador to the United States. I wanted you to hear this directly from me as my decision may or may not have an impact on what you choose to do next."

"How so, father?" asked Buffy.

"Well," Hank replied; "When your mother and I return to England in July, we would like for you to come home with us."

"Buffy," Joyce quietly interjected. "We know that you have a year left of college, but this would be a wonderful opportunity to have the entire family together after seven years of separation."

Buffy was shocked. "I need to think about this. I mean, I have school to finish, but it is not just that. I have my job at the Sunnydale Gallery as well as Riley. I understand what you guys need to do, but I'm just not ready to give up the life I have right now."

"Buffy, we know that this is not easy. We were young once ourselves and wanted to forge our lives and identities on our own away from our parents. I know that it is a lot we are asking of you, but I would feel a greater peace of mind, if I knew our family was not separated by the Atlantic Ocean.” Joyce continued, “as far as completing your studies, we can get you enrolled at Oxford University. As you know, your grandmother Kat still holds a seat on the Board of Trustees. In addition, you can always find a part-time job at a local art gallery. In regards to your relationship with Riley, I cannot speak to that. Ultimately, it would be your decision. Whatever, you decide to do we will support you 100%."

"Okay. I really need to think about this. I promise to have an answer for you before you leave on Sunday," replied Buffy.

Hank and Joyce simply nodded their head, accepting Buffy’s decision to provide an answer by Sunday. They secretly both hoped that she would join them in July.

After the discussion, the family left the Sunnydale Inn and decided to stop by the Gallery to view the showing for Claudia Reed. Despite Buffy's earlier concerns, the show was an absolute success and Buffy was able to introduce her boss Hans to her parents. Hans had nothing but glowing words of encouragement in regards for Buffy. Always fair, Buffy gave credit where it was due. She made a point of telling both her parents and Hans, that without the help of Warren, tonight's show would have been a disaster.

Once the family left the gallery, both Hank and Joyce were feeling a bit tired. The driver brought the family back to the bed and breakfast safely where they retired for the evening. The family decided to spend the day at the private beach near the hotel in the morning.

As she got ready for bed, Buffy thought about the night's events that took place and realized that all in all she had a wonderful time with her parents. The only downside was the request to return to England with her parents. Given, the glowing praises she received from her boss and only having a year left of school, Buffy was leaning towards remaining in the United States after her parents left for England.

As she prepared for the day at the beach tomorrow with her parents, Buffy realized that she left her bathing suit at her apartment. I’ll just pop home early tomorrow morning and pick up my bathing suit from the apartment and will be back in time for breakfast with the ‘rents.

***********
May 2001
Memorial Day Weekend
William Giles Townhouse | London, England

Saturday morning…

Spike woke to the smell of bacon and eggs cooking from his kitchen.

I know that Margie stocked the cabinets and refrigerator before going home to her family for the weekend. She couldn’t possibly be in the kitchen making me breakfast.

As he got up from the couch, Spike winced as his muscles protested the sudden movement. Note to self: Don’t sleep on the couch unless I want to be in physical pain. He slowly walked into the kitchen to see what was going on.

Once there, Spike watched Cicely, in a pair of panties and one of his black tees moving about the kitchen cooking breakfast as if it is a natural, daily occurrence. As she turned to put bread in the toaster, she noticed Spike standing quietly at the kitchen door.

“Good morning, sleepyhead,” Cicely greeted Spike with a smile. “I thought I would cook us up some breakfast since we didn’t have dinner last night. I hope that is okay?”

“Sure,” replied Spike.

“I made a fresh pot of coffee. Would you like a cup?”

“That would be great, pet. Thanks.”

Cicely poured Spike a stemming cup of coffee and handed it to him. Spike moved to the breakfast nook table to drink his coffee and to continue watching Cicely move about the kitchen.

As he watched Cicely’s every move, a slow panic started to build about the very domestic situation. Cor, I don’t believe what I am seeing here. Cicely is the last person, I thought would go this far… Maybe, I kept her around too long. I’m definitely going to have to cut all ties with her. Yes, that is what I will do. She knew the rules when she agreed to our arrangement. Spike looked up to see Cicely walking to the table with two plates of scrambled eggs, bacon and toast. The food looks delicious; I will cut ties with her after breakfast.

“Breakfast looks delicious, pet. Thank you for making it for me,” Spike complimented the chef as he took a bite of the meal before him.

“Thank you.”

The couple continued to eat the meal in silence. The only sounds that could be heard were the cutlery occasionally hitting the plate. After about ten minutes of the awkward silence, Cicely blurted out:

“Spike, we need to talk.”

Uh oh, I knew this was coming… I should have run in the other direction when I first saw her making breakfast, this can’t be good. “Sure, pet about what?”

“Um, I don’t know how to say this… I mean you are a great guy and the time we have spent together absolutely amazing.”

“Why do I feel a ‘but’ coming on…”

“But I cannot see you anymore.”

Well, that’s a shocker. “Well, that’s a shocker. Care to tell me why, Cicely?”

“Edward is coming home.”

“Ah, I see,” Spike replied. Spike knew all about Edward Naughton. Cicely confessed everything to Spike the second time they had slept together. Depending on how one would look at it; Edward was or is Cicely’s boyfriend. They were childhood sweethearts all the way thru University. Upon graduation, Edward decided to enroll in Her Majesty’s military service. After boot camp, Edward was promptly shipped to Japan for the next four years. Not having the money to visit Edward in Japan and the distance separating the couple, Edward and Cicely agreed to see others to satisfy any carnal needs one may have while the other was away. It was understood that there would not be any emotional involvement on any level and Edward and Cicely had to be honest with each other.

The fact that Cicely was in love with another man, worked on many levels to Spike’s benefit. After Cicely confessed everything to Spike; he informed her that it was okay as he did not want to be tied down in any relationship. Cicely and Spike both agreed to a ’Friends with Benefits’ arrangement. Spike did shower Cicely with small gifts; however the greatest gift he presented to her with an all expenses-paid trip to Japan to visit Edward for his birthday.

“Please don’t be upset,” Cicely nervously wrapped the napkin around her fingers. “You have been the most amazing companion while Edward was away and I truly appreciate that. But I want something more and Edward is the only man to give it to me.”

“I understand. I wish you and Edward all of the best.”

As Cicely began to clear the breakfast plates, Spike grabbed her hand to stop her.

“Leave them, I can get them.”

“I’ll just go and get dressed then.” Slowly, Cicely leaned down to give Spike a kiss on his temple.

As she began to walk out of the kitchen to get dressed; Spike called to out “Cicely, if ever you need anything, please don’t hesitate to call me. I mean it.”

Knowing he was true to his word, Cicely simply nodded her in acceptance of the kind offer.

Spike continued to sit at the breakfast nook and drink his coffee; while Cicely was in the bedroom getting dressed and collecting all of her items that she left over at Spike’s place. Spike cleared the dishes from the table and began to wash up. Once the cleanup of the breakfast dishes were done and Cicely had gathered all of her things, Spike drove her home for the last time.

tbc

May 2001
Memorial Day Weekend
Giles, Rayne & Summers (GRS) Law Firm | London, England

Saturday afternoon…

After Spike dropped Cicely home, he decided to go to the office to do some work before the football match between Chelsea and Manchester United came on the television later in the evening.

As he walked down the hallway to his office, Spike decided to take a detour to his father’s office.

“Ah, I see I’m not the only one who likes to break the rules,” Spike commented as he entered Giles office to say hello to his father.

“Well, it is very hard to get work done during normal business hours – what with all of the meetings and such that I have to take care of,” Giles replied sarcastically.

Spike could only shake his head and laugh at his father’s antics.

“What brings you to the office today, son?” Giles queried.

“Well, I just dropped Cicely home and thought I would come in and get some work done before going home to watch football on the tele'.”

Seeing Giles cringed as he commented about Cicely, Spike mentioned “You can wipe that look off your face. Cicely and I ended our relationship this morning or rather she ended.”

Desperately trying to hide his glee at the bit of news, Giles tried a sympathetic response “Oh, really… what happened?”

“Well, her fiancé decided to return home after playing soldier for the last few years in Japan. They are planning to get married within a few months of his return.”

“Ah, I see,” replied Giles. Although he did not like the promiscuous lifestyle that his son engaged in, Giles still did not want to see his son hurt. “Are you okay, now that it is over?”

“Actually, I am. I was thinking that I’m ready now to be more serious when it comes to relationships. You know… maybe court or woo a lady using the good ole Giles charm – see where it goes besides the bedroom.”

“I’m glad to hear that, son” replied Giles. “Your mother and I have only ever wanted what is best for you.”

“Thanks, Da’. I’m going to head over to my office and get a couple of hours of work in before heading back home.”

“Ok, talk to you later.”

As Spike continued his walk towards his office, he made a mental note to stop by his father’s office again before he left for the day to make sure his dad did not remain at the office all night. Ever since his mom, Jenny, passed away five years ago in a car accident; Giles threw himself more in to his work to stave off the loneliness. This worried Spike greatly, as he noticed his father become less sociable outside of the office and more of a hermit.

Maybe I’ll invite Clem, Wes and Gunn over to Dad’s and we make it a guy’s night. The game would be much better in Dad’s theater room. Liking the plan, Spike called his friends and arranged for them to meet at the Giles’ estate instead of Spike’s apartment. Next, Spike called the house to tell the staff to expect guests to arrive around 6:30pm and to show them to the theater room for the football game. As a courtesy, Spike also called his former nanny and the Giles’ housekeeper, Margie, to inform her that he would be spending the rest of the weekend at the Giles’ estate and that some friends would join them to watch a football game that night.

Plan set in motion, Spike settled down at his desk to work on a couple of cases heading to court in the coming week.

---

May 2001
Memorial Day Weekend
Sunnydale Bed and Breakfast | Sunnydale, CA

Early Saturday morning…

Goodness, I can’t believe that I am up at 6am on a Saturday, thought Buffy. I usually like to sleep in. Why am I doing this again, oh yeah I forgot my bathing suit and need to go to my apartment to pick it up.

Buffy threw on a pair of sweatpants and a baby tee. Pulling her hair in a messy bun, Buffy collected her purse and keys and stopped by her parents’ room.

“Mum, I forgot my bathing suit and I’m just going to pop home to collect it. Do you need me to pick up anything for you and Dad while I’m out?”

“No, dear; we’re fine. Will you be back in time for breakfast?,” queried Joyce.

“Yes.”

“Okay, we will see you when you get back. Be careful.” Buffy kissed her mom on the head and Joyce rolled over and went back to sleep.

Buffy left the Sunnydale Bed and Breakfast and hailed a taxi to drive her back to her apartment.

Upon entering the apartment she shared with Faith, Buffy realized that her roommate was having her own private slumber party.

Okay, let me get my things and get out of here as quickly as possible. Nothing like the awkwardness of encountering one of Faith’s conquests.

Buffy quickly went to her bedroom and collected a couple of bathing suits, sunscreen, beach towels and other items needed for the family outing to the beach later that morning. On her way to the kitchen, she could not help but notice not only a pair of men’s trousers, but also the familiar UC-Sunnydale Letterman’s jacket.

Looks, like Faith bagged herself an athlete for the weekend. I wonder if Riley knows who it is…

Simply thinking about Riley made Buffy want to give her boyfriend a call to let him know how things were going with her parents.

If I call Riley now, I can definitely catch him before he heads to the gym for his morning workout, thought Buffy as she started to dial Riley’s cell number.

As she listened for either Riley to answer or the phone to go into voicemail, she began to hear the distinct ringtone assigned to her cell number come from the trousers laying across her couch:

I’m a Barbie girl, in the Barbie world
Life in plastic, it’s fantastic!
You can brush my hair, undress me everywhere.
Imagination, life is your creation.

Come on Barbie, let’s go party!

It was well-known on the UC-Sunnydale campus that most athletes with serious girlfriends assigned a unique ringtone to their steady’s number.

Buffy walked over to the pair of pants strewn on the couch and pulled out the cell phone. As the Aqua song continued to play, she saw her name flash on the caller id. Before, she could put the phone back – the door to Faith’s bedroom opened and Buffy saw Riley come out of the room naked to answer the phone.

Riley stopped dead in his tracks as he saw his girlfriend look at him with wide green eyes while holding his cell phone.

“Buffy, I can explain.”

tbc